Lions Set for Crucial Matchup Against Steelers with Goff Aiming to Shine
The Detroit Lions find themselves on the brink of a pivotal showdown this Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game that promises to be a true test of their playoff aspirations. As they prepare, recent roster adjustments have provided a much-needed boost to their offensive line, setting the stage for an exciting clash.
Quarterback Depth Chart
Starter: Jared Goff
Backup: Kyle Allen
Jared Goff enters this matchup with something to prove. After a strong performance against the Green Bay Packers, where the Lions managed to sweep the division rivals, Goff now faces a different challenge in the Steelers. His ability to outduel seasoned quarterback Aaron Rodgers in that match has raised expectations. The stakes are high as Goff takes the field at Ford Field, looking to replicate his previous success and lead his team against a formidable Pittsburgh defense.
Running Back Situation
Starter: Jahmyr Gibbs
Backup: David Montgomery
Reserves: Sione Vaki, Jacob Saylors
In the backfield, Jahmyr Gibbs has emerged as one of the league’s most explosive running backs, and the Lions have shown a commitment to giving him significant snaps. While David Montgomery’s role has diminished recently, the coaching staff maintains confidence in his capabilities. The Lions will hope Montgomery can contribute when it matters most, adding depth to their rushing attack.
Wide Receiver Corps
Starters: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa
Backups: Kalif Raymond, Tom Kennedy, Dominic Lovett
The receiving corps is buzzing with talent, as Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams both demonstrated their explosive potential last week. Isaac TeSlaa has also carved out a role, consistently earning playing time even as Kalif Raymond returns from injury. The Lions will look to harness their aerial threats to exploit the Steelers’ secondary.
Tight End Outlook
Starter: Shane Zylstra
Backup: Anthony Firkser
Reserve: Giovanni Ricci (Practice squad elevation)
Inactive: Sam LaPorta (injured reserve), Brock Wright (injured reserve)
Shane Zylstra is expected to shoulder a heavy workload this week after making a significant impact in his return from injury. With LaPorta and Wright sidelined, Zylstra’s familiarity with the offense could prove invaluable in this critical matchup.
Offensive Line Adjustments
Starters: Taylor Decker (LT, Questionable, Shoulder), Christian Mahogany (LG, Questionable, Fibula), Kingsley Eguakun (C, Practice squad elevation), Tate Ratledge (RG), Penei Sewell (RT)
Backups: Dan Skipper (OT), Kayode Awosika (G), Graham Glasgow (C/G, Questionable, Knee), Trystan Colon (C/G, Questionable, Wrist), Michael Niese (G), Miles Frazier (G/T)
Inactive: Giovanni Manu (injured reserve), Colby Sorsdal (injured reserve), Jamarco Jones (injured reserve)
The offensive line faces uncertainty, particularly with Glasgow’s mid-week injury limiting his practice. The elevation of Eguakun from the practice squad suggests he may step in as the starting center. This reshuffling comes after Colon’s struggles in previous games, heightening the importance of a cohesive performance against a stout Steelers defensive front.
Defensive Line Stability
Starters: DJ Reader (NT), Alim McNeill (3T)
Backups: Roy Lopez, Tyleik Williams
Reserves: Tyler Lacy, Mekhi Wingo
Inactive: Levi Onwuzurike (Reserve/PUP)
The defensive line has remained largely unchanged, showcasing health and consistency throughout the season. DJ Reader and Roy Lopez have formed a solid partnership, with Lopez recently adding to his sack tally. Meanwhile, rookie Tyleik Williams is gaining valuable experience as the season progresses.
EDGE Rushers and Linebackers
Starters: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport
Backups: Al-Quadin Muhammad, Tyrus Wheat
Inactive: Josh Paschal (NFI)
The EDGE position remains a strength for the Lions, with Hutchinson and Davenport expected to make an impact. After a standout three-sack game against the Cowboys, Al-Quadin Muhammad has seen reduced snaps but remains a key rotational player. The linebacking unit, led by Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell, and Derrick Barnes, has been reliable, but how they adapt in the final stretch of the season will be worth monitoring.
Secondary Preparedness
Starters: D.J. Reed, Rock Ya-Sin
Backups: Amik Robertson (Questionable, Hand), Khalil Dorsey
Reserves: Arthur Maulet, Nick Whiteside
Inactive: Terrion Arnold (injured reserve), Ennis Rakestraw (injured reserve)
In the secondary, D.J. Reed and Rock Ya-Sin are poised to face the Steelers’ receivers. Amik Robertson’s questionable status due to a hand injury may lead to a deeper rotation, with Khalil Dorsey stepping in if needed. This unit will need to be sharp to limit the Steelers’ passing attack.
Safety Position Insights
Starters: Avonte Maddox, Thomas Harper
Backups: Jalen Mills, Daniel Thomas
Inactive: Brian Branch (injured reserve), Kerby Joseph (injured reserve), Dan Jackson (injured reserve)
With Thomas Harper returning to the lineup, the safeties look to solidify their presence against Pittsburgh. Maddox and Harper could form a strong pairing, while Mills and Thomas provide depth and versatility.
Special Teams Consistency
Kicker: Jake Bates
Punter: Jack Fox
Long-snapper: Hogan Hatten
Kick returners: Tom Kennedy, Jacob Saylors
Punt returner: Kalif Raymond
The special teams unit remains unchanged, with Kennedy handling kick returns and Raymond on punts. Kicker Jake Bates has had his ups and downs this season, but the Lions will look for him to be reliable as they head into a crucial game.
As the Lions gear up for this critical contest against the Steelers, all eyes will be on Goff and the entire roster to see if they can deliver a performance worthy of their playoff ambitions.
