From the hustle and bustle of Detroit to the streets of East Lansing, the Detroit Lions brought an energy like never before. Honolulu blue poured onto local bar lines like The Riv, wrapping around downtown East Lansing. 

Although the season ended on a bittersweet note, with the Lions losing 34-31 in the NFC Championship Game. The Detroit Lions’ impact stretched further than the endzones at Ford Field.

This was the Lions’ first time competing in the NFC Championship game since 1992. Momentum from the previous wins against the Los Angeles Rams and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had students eager to get a spot in line at local bars Sunday night. 

Senior Chloe Cotter works as a server at the popular East Lansing bar, Fieldhouse. She said going to work has been an easier task knowing that she will make more money.

“You make a ton of money,” Cotter said. “It’s dirty though.” She added that she does not enjoy the cleanup after a game day.

However, Cotter said she mostly loves it. 

“Go to the bar, support your local businesses,” Cotter said.

Elinor Raggon, a regular customer of Fieldhouse, expressed her love of game days spent at the bar. 

“It’s a different vibe. It’s always more fun, it’s always more relaxed,” Raggon said. 

Raggon’s friend, Kelly Hintze, agreed. 

“You feel more comfortable going out in sweats,” Hintze said. 

Despite the disappointing loss, Spartans remain in full support of the Detroit team. 

“Go freaking Lions forever. Never lose your pride,” Cotter said. 

When the Lions win, so does every city in Michigan.