Lions reveal inactives for crucial Week 9 showdown with Vikings
The Detroit Lions have unveiled their inactives list for the pivotal Week 9 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, set to take place at Ford Field.
Lions’ Inactive Players
Among those ruled out are safety Kerby Joseph, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, defensive back Daniel Thomas, and running back Craig Reynolds. Both cornerback Terrion Arnold and left tackle Taylor Decker will be available to play this week, providing a boost to the Lions’ roster. The inactives also include defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo, safety Erick Hallett, and defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson.
Tactical Insights Ahead of the Game
Offensive coordinator John Morton is acutely aware of the challenges posed by the Vikings’ defense, led by coordinator Brian Flores. Morton emphasized the disruptive tactics that Flores employs, saying, “They cause havoc up front. A lot of moving parts up front, coverages, different types of coverages. Does a really good job in man-zone tells. But really, it starts up front. Trying to break down your protections to get guys through, even in the run game and everything like that.”
Morton noted that while the Vikings’ defense has shown signs of inconsistency this season due to injuries, they remain unpredictable: “It’s kind of calmed down a little bit this year, I think based on some of their injuries that they’ve had. But listen, everybody plays us differently, so we have to expect the unexpected with him. That’s the biggest thing.”
Focus on Explosive Plays
As the Lions prepare for this crucial divisional clash, Morton pointed to the need for the offense to generate more explosive plays, particularly in the passing game. “If the defense stopped playing shell all the time. I mean, that’s really the biggest thing. I mean, look at our personnel. Teams are playing us differently because of who we have out there. So, don’t get me wrong, we have plays for shots, and it’s just not there sometimes. That’s just the way it goes.”
He further elaborated, “First and second down, we’re taking a shot. If it’s not there, we check it down. We’re not going to force anything. I think you create big plays when you have – third down, you can do that when you get more man-to-man and things like that, you can create some big plays. We’re pretty good after the catch in the league, and that’s where we’ve been getting a lot of our big plays.”
As the season progresses, Morton recognizes the challenge of keeping defenses guessing: “But, as the season goes on and people catch up to your tendencies, ‘Oh, this guy is getting this.’ Defenses are not dumb. We always have plays where we’re trying to take shots. If it’s not there, we’re going to be smart. There’s no question.”
With the stakes high and a fierce rivalry on the line, the Lions will look to navigate these challenges as they face off against the Vikings.
