The Lions lost a tough game Sunday as they were out-dueled 48-42 by Josh Allen and the Bills. While the offense continued to find ways to score the defense just couldn’t seem to slow down Buffalo’s offense and their MVP candidate. Injuries to that defensive unit undoubtably played a part in the breakdown, but the question remains, will the teams accumulating medical issues cause more problems, or can the Lions get wins despite the adversity?
Detroit lost three more defensive players last weekend to IR including Carlton Davis (Broken Jaw), Khalil Dorsey (Leg Fracture) and Alim McNeil (ACL Tear) adding to the defensive players on IR. Some players are expected to return soon but with that many guys down including more offensive guys as well, it’s hard to field a competitive team in this league and yet Dan Campbell and team aren't making excuses.
Jared Goff on the Detroit Lions injuries:
— 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔇𝔢𝔱𝔯𝔬𝔦𝔱 𝔗𝔦𝔪𝔢𝔰 📰 (@the_det_times) December 17, 2024
“We refuse to use any of these injuries as an excuse, We are gonna be just fine. I’m telling you right now we can, don’t be depressed” #OnePride pic.twitter.com/Xp1KHA2Te1
During a recent interview Campbell continued his next man up mentality and even took it a step further calling their loss to the Bills this past weekend “Exactly what we needed”. While some coaches would be talking about how hard it would be to compete, Campbell has taken the opposite route and seems ready to run directly through the tough times they face.
Even before this weeks injuries the Lions were in dead last in the Banged-Up Scores and rightfully so, so just how hard will it be for them?
We know that health matters and it matters more when you play teams of equal caliber talent which is where the Lions are headed as they prepare for the playoffs. For some reason, Detroit’s head coach gives us all the vibe that they could lose every player and he would suit up and find a way to win. Realistically however, they have a very high mountain to climb.
Historically, as we get closer to the playoffs, the healthier teams win games meaning that Detroit is going to have to get some of their top performers back if they truly want a chance at going all the way this season. Sure losing a few players is something that can be overcome and the motor city team has proven that, but positional cluster injuries can sink teams. Campbell and squad will look to defy odds as they head to Chicago this weekend and hopefully return key guys in the coming weeks.
