Overview
- The Lions beat the Saints 31-30 in overtime after Williams made a pivotal 22-yard sideline catch that set up the game-winning touchdown.
- Williams was targeted nine times and finished with four catches for 45 yards while visibly missing multiple catch opportunities.
- Stat collectors and outlets disagree on the official drop count, so public criticism over his hands has been fueled by differing tallies rather than a single definitive number.
- Quarterback Jared Goff publicly defended Williams after the game, saying some throws were his fault and that he is not worried about the receiver’s future performance.
- Detroit faces a quick turnaround with a Thursday night road game at Buffalo, which will be seen as an early measure of whether Williams can shake off the opener and meet his breakout-season expectations.