Live Feed: Lions’ Defensive Line Faces Crucial Test Against Bears
With just three weeks left in the regular season, the Detroit Lions find themselves in a pivotal position. Despite their impressive 12-2 record, injuries have plagued the team, leaving them with over 20 players on injured reserve as of December 18. The once-dominant squad is now battling to prove they can overcome adversity and maintain their hold on the NFC’s top seed.
Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears could define the Lions’ path forward. After narrowly escaping with a win over the Bears on Thanksgiving due to questionable coaching decisions by former Bears head coach Matt Eberflus, the Lions know they can’t afford to overlook Chicago again.
Defensive Line Faces the Most Pressure
The Lions‘ defensive line has endured the brunt of this season’s injury woes. By Week 6, both starting defensive ends were lost, prompting the front office to trade for reinforcements. Now, with a starting defensive tackle also sidelined, only one original starter remains.
Despite these setbacks, the Lions have a favorable matchup against a struggling Bears offensive line, which ranks among the league’s worst. The Bears, tied with the Browns for the most sacks allowed (56), have failed to protect rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, whose athleticism often masks their deficiencies.
Bears’ Offensive Line in Shambles
The Bears’ offensive line continues to crumble, with several starters’ statuses in question for Sunday:
- Braxton Jones (LT): The team’s best pass blocker (80 PFF grade) missed last week with a concussion and hasn’t practiced this week.
- Teven Jenkins (LG): With a 75.4 PFF grade, Jenkins missed practice Wednesday due to a calf injury.
- Ryan Bates (C): Still recovering from a concussion, Bates hasn’t practiced since Thanksgiving.
If these players are unavailable, backups Kiran Amegadjie (LT), Coleman Shelton (C), and Nate Davis (LG) will step in. Unfortunately for Chicago, these replacements have struggled, combining for 35 pressures, 28 hurries, and 5 sacks allowed this season.
Lions’ Pass Rush Must Step Up
The Lions’ defensive line, despite its depleted roster, showed resilience in their last meeting with Chicago, recording five sacks while missing key players. DJ Reader and Za’Darius Smith delivered standout performances, combining for multiple pressures and sacks.
This time, the Lions will have additional support from Josh Paschal and Levi Onwuzurike, who can exploit Chicago’s backup linemen. Facing a Bears unit potentially down three starters, Detroit’s defensive line has a prime opportunity to dominate.
Keys to Victory
If the Lions’ pass rush can capitalize on the Bears’ injuries, they should control the game defensively. With their playoff hopes and top seed aspirations on the line, the Lions’ ability to pressure Caleb Williams will be the key to securing a critical road win in Week 16.
Stay tuned as the Lions aim to prove they’re still a powerhouse, despite the obstacles they’ve faced this season.