Family Journal: December 30, 2024

It was a miserable day weather-wise yesterday with cold temperatures (between 3-6 C), intermittent rain, and grey skies. I did manage to get out between downpours and ran 10 kilometers along the Anhor Canal. The origin of the word Anhor is not known, it could mean anzor=grape, angor=field or anhar=rivers. The Russians developed it in the 1800s and it formed the boundary between the old town and the newer part of the city. It is my favorite place in the city and I’ve walked, run, and cycled many kilometers along the canal. The best way to deal with inclement weather is to ignore it. I had a good workout and Obi ran with me the entire way. I also learned the first bridge over the canal is called Urda. City officials recently added a stop light and crosswalk on the bridge to make it safer for pedestrians.

I love being able to watch sports and not have to rush off to school. The Detroit Lions had a classic Dan Campbell victory against the 49ers this morning. They were unstoppable on offense, went for it on fourth down in crucial times, and came up with two interceptions to win The Lions have the best offense in the league, averaging almost 33 points per game. They need it because their defensive unit has been decimated by injuries with basically an entire defensive unit sidelined for most of the season. It really hurt them to lose their best lineman, Aiden Hutchinson, but it was followed by two great linebackers, Alex Anzalone and Malcolm Rodriguez. The team has 14 wins and 2 losses for the season and is tied with North Division rival Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings and Lions play each other next week, with the winner claiming the North Division title and the #1 seed in the National Football Conference. Due to the playoff structure, the loser becomes the fifth seed despite having 14 wins and has to play road games. I was proud to see them give a good effort tonight and win the game! They lost the NFC championship game in San Francisco last season and this was a revenge game for that loss.

I love the media narrative being against the Lions. Before the injuries earlier in the season, they were the Super Bowl favorites. Now with the injuries, experts are picking Minnesota or the Philadelphia Eagles. I think that takes the pressure off the team and they can continue to play their loose, aggressive style. It is so strange to have them play big games during prime time and have the national commentators talking about them all the time! They already have accomplished so much.

14 victories is the most in franchise history, 8 and 0 on road games, #1 offense in the league

  • 14 wins is the most in franchise history in a season
  • 8 and 0 record in road games (first time in franchise history)
  • Two running backs and two wide receivers gaining over 1000 yards in the season (first in NFL history)
  • Four players with over 1000 years from scrimmage and at least 7 touchdowns (second team ever, first since 2004)
  • Three players with 12 touchdowns or more (fourth time in NFL history)

I can’t wait for the game next week! Go Lions!

Leave a comment