The Detroit Lions (11-1) are preparing for a pivotal Thursday night showdown against the Green Bay Packers (9-3) in Week 14, with significant playoff implications on the line. The Lions, currently atop the NFC North, are looking to extend their lead, while the Packers, sitting in third place, are fighting to stay in the playoff race. This game is crucial for both teams as the postseason nears.
The Lions have been hit hard by injuries, with several key players unavailable for Thursday’s game. Linebackers Alex Anzalone and Jalen Reeves-Maybin, rookie defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo, and return man Kalif Raymond are all out. The status of offensive tackle Taylor Decker, cornerback Carlton Davis III, and defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike remains uncertain.
Coach Campbell with an update on Taylor Decker pic.twitter.com/n0VIeDh8O0
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 1, 2024
Decker and Davis missed the Thanksgiving game due to knee injuries, while Onwuzurike exited early with a knee issue. Additionally, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez is out for the season with a torn ACL. To address these absences, the Lions made several roster moves, including waiving wide receiver Maurice Alexander, placing Rodriguez and Wingo on Reserve/Injured, and signing defensive lineman Myles Adams (from the Seahawks’ practice squad), linebacker Kwon Alexander (from the Broncos’ practice squad), and defensive lineman Jonah Williams (from the Rams’ practice squad) to the active roster. They also signed defensive back Jamal Adams to the practice squad, adding further depth to the secondary.
Green Bay has also faced injuries but received some positive news on Sunday when cornerback Jaire Alexander and wide receiver Romeo Doubs returned to practice. Alexander, who has missed the last two games with a knee injury, and Doubs, who was in concussion protocol, both participated in practice, offering hope for their availability on Thursday. However, the Packers will likely be without linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) and cornerback Corey Ballentine, who injured his knee during last week’s win over the Dolphins. Both absences could impact Green Bay’s defense.
In their first meeting this season in Week 9, the Lions defeated the Packers 24-14 at Lambeau Field. Despite challenging weather, Detroit’s defense played a key role, with Kerby Joseph returning an interception 27 yards for a touchdown. Jared Goff was efficient, completing 18 of 22 passes for 145 yards, and the Lions converted two crucial fourth downs into touchdowns. The Lions’ defense and timely offense led to the victory.
With the Lions looking to secure a top playoff seed and the Packers needing a win to stay in the hunt, Thursday’s game is pivotal. A win over the Lions for the Packers would not only almost secure them a playoff spot, but also put them right back in the NFC North race. The Packers are riding high after convincing wins at home against two tough teams, playing some of their best football of the season. Meanwhile, Detroit is clinging to a slim lead at the top of the NFC. With five weeks remaining and a tough schedule ahead, the Lions’ hold on the division is far from guaranteed. This tight race marks the first time since 1985 that Detroit, Minnesota, and Green Bay have all had at least nine wins through Week 13—a testament to how competitive the NFC North has become.