Sam LaPorta stats tonight: Lions TE's receiving yards, touchdowns and more in Week 14 TNF vs. Packers 

On Thursday Night Football, the Detroit Lions hosted the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field hoping to improve to 11-1 and continue on their quest to earn a first-round bye and secure home-field advantage in the playoffs.

With their defense banged up, they needed massive performances from their superstars on offense, like tight end Sam LaPorta. The tight end hasn't been anywhere as prolific as he was in his rookie year, where he earned a Pro Bowl and a Second Team All-Pro nod.

He is perhaps the only star on the Lions' offense yet to have a massive game this year. The Lions haven't needed LaPorta to be as exceptional as he was last season so far. However, they'd likely need him at some point in the playoffs, which is why they hope he'd pick up his form.

A home game against their arch-nemesis serves as the perfect opportunity to have his biggest game of the year and announce his return to form.

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Sam LaPorta stats vs. Packers in Week 14

Here are Sam LaPorta's stats from the Lions' 34-31 win over the Packers on Thursday Night Football:

• Receptions: 5
• Targets: 7
• Receiving yards: 54
• Touchdowns: 0

The tight end had a relatively decent outing in a high-scoring game. He had good synergy with quarterback Jared Goff as the duo connected on five of seven throws that went in the tight end's direction.

The Packers' defense focusing on containing LaPorta and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown opened spaces for veteran Tim Patrick, who had his most impactful game as a Lion. He finished with six catches for 43 yards and two touchdowns.

The Lions' win saw them improve to 12-1. It's the best record the franchise has compiled through 13 games in any season in their 95-year history. Their defense may not be as healthy as they wish, but their offense has been carrying the load and leading the way weekly.

LaPorta has been sidelined a bit, with St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs, and David Montgomery becoming Goff's go-to options on offense. However, the sophomore star wouldn't mind the lack of targets as long as the team continues winning.

Given his talent, he'll back himself to have a massive day and make a difference in a game that matters later in the season.