DETROIT, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 16: Brian Branch #32 of the Detroit Lions celebrates Kerby Joseph #31 of the Detroit Lions after a play during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos at Ford Field on December 16, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images)
As the Detroit Lions prepare for their Week 7 showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team is grappling with significant challenges. Listed on the final injury report ahead of Monday Night Football, seven players will be sidelined, contributing to the Lions’ uphill battle. With a record of 4-2, Detroit is looking to bounce back after a disappointing loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, a game overshadowed by controversial officiating.
The Lions will face a formidable Buccaneers squad, currently at 5-1, and will notably be without their starting cornerbacks and safeties due to injuries. This presents a daunting task for the Lions’ defense, especially with Buccaneers’ quarterback Baker Mayfield poised to exploit the situation. Adding to the Buccaneers’ offensive strength, Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver Mike Evans is expected to return from a hamstring injury that has sidelined him for three weeks. Additionally, rising star wide receiver Emeka Egbuka is targeting a return, further complicating the Lions’ defensive strategy.
The recent history between the two teams has turned into a budding rivalry, with the Lions winning two of the last three encounters. However, the Buccaneers claimed victory in their last meeting, edging out Detroit 20-16 in Week 2 of the 2024 season.
The Lions’ inactive list includes safety Brian Branch, who is serving a one-game suspension following an incident involving Chiefs’ wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster in Week 6, and cornerback D.J. Reed Jr., who remains on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury. Other players listed as out include safety Kerby Joseph (knee), cornerback Avonte Maddox (hamstring), cornerback Terrion Arnold (shoulder), and running back Sione Vaki (groin). Offensive tackle Taylor Decker, along with defensive tackle Alim McNeill and nose tackle D.J. Reader, are all listed as questionable.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. on ESPN, and Lions fans are hopeful for a strong performance despite the existing challenges. The team’s resilience will be tested as they aim to regain their winning momentum in a critical matchup at home.