The Lions’ win drew 28.5 million viewers, according to a release from NBC, across television and digital platforms. That marks the third-highest number in the history of NBC’s Sunday Night Football package, behind only the 2024 season-opener and the 2012 season finale.

The "Sunday Night Football" matchup between the NFC opponents was broadcast on NBC Sports. Following the game, the network's public relations team posted the official viewerships numbers from Week 18.

On average, 28.5 million viewers watched NBC and Peacock to see the Lions beat the Vikings 31-9 and claim the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Only the 2012 regular-season finale between Washington and Dallas (30.5 million) and the 2024 season opener between the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs (29.2 million) drew bigger SNF audiences.

The Lions (15-2) walked away with a 31-9 win, securing the division title and the top seed in the NFC, giving them a bye for the Wild Card round. The Vikings (14-3) will travel to Los Angeles to play the Rams (10-7) on Monday night.

Before the huge game, Detroit-based R&B musical group S.O.U.L. (Shades of United Ladies) performed their rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner." The performance of the national anthem at the Sugar Bowl held significant value following the USA tragedy in New Orleans, Louisiana.