Category: Lions News

Lions vs. Ravens: Last-minute thoughts and final score prediction

Lions vs. Ravens: Last-minute thoughts and final score prediction for the Week 7 matchup

The coffee is flowing hard on a chilly Sunday morning. Hoping the chill doesn’t extend to the Detroit Lions in their 1 p.m. game in Baltimore against the Ravens.

This is a tough one for Dan Campbell’s Lions. It’s also the biggest challenge for John Harbaugh’s Ravens in the young season. Here’s what I’m thinking about the matchup of first-place teams with MVP candidates at quarterback.

Why I think the Lions will win

  • They’re not going to be afraid of Lamar Jackson. More to the point, they won’t be surprised by his unusual speed. He’s different than Patrick Mahomes, who the Lions shut down in Week 1. Jackson is faster to top speed and more apt to take off, though he’s doing less of that in 2023. The Ravens offense is almost completely dependent on Jackson being elite. They don’t run the ball particularly well and they’re middle-of-the-pack in running after the catch. Detroit knows how to approach defending Lamar Jackson, even if they haven’t had a lot of success at it.
  • Detroit’s offense will be different than what they’ve shown on game film thus far. It’s not that David Montgomery’s injury is a blessing because that’s absolutely not the truth; Montgomery is having a Pro Bowl year at RB. But the Lions offense without him and instead featuring Jahmyr Gibbs at running back AND the speed of Jameson Williams on the field, that’s a dynamic we haven’t seen. They haven’t either, and that’s an advantage for Lions OC Ben Johnson. A big game for Williams could very well be in the works. It might need to be…
  • Those past nightmares against Baltimore, notably the 19-17 loss in Campbell’s first season on Justin Tucker’s record-setting field goal, are a blueprint for how not to win. Campbell has shown an underappreciated ability to adapt to past failures and not try to keep hammering a square peg into a round hole, or trying to win last week’s (or last year’s) game. I think these Lions will be prepared for the game and manage the game better than in 2021.
  • Jared Goff for MVP is real. He’ll need to prove it again on Sunday. And he can!

What worries me about Baltimore

  • The Ravens have played in the spotlight quite a bit over the years, a lot more than the Lions have. Detroit is learning fast and well, but there’s a time-tested element for the Ravens that shouldn’t be overlooked.
  • Lamar Jackson is an MVP candidate too, and he’s doing it with a lesser supporting cast–from OL to RB to WR–than Goff is. Jackson’s completion percentage is a career-high 69.9 percent (better than Goff’s 69.5) and he does more of that down the field than he has in prior years. He will make occasional mistakes, and the Lions have to make him pay for them.
  • Baltimore’s middle-of-field defense is as good as any, and it’s at all three levels. There isn’t another team that is better equipped to neutralize Goff’s mastery of the middle of the field and inside routes to Amon Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta than the Ravens are. They can take away the interior run without devoting extra players into the box, and that’s even more true with Montgomery and left guard Jonah Jackson out for Detroit.
  • Justin Tucker is a Hall of Fame kicker with an incredible clutch gene. The Lions can’t even begin to compete in a field goal matchup against Tucker and the Ravens at home. In what I think will be a low-scoring game, Tucker’s ability to hit from 55 emphatically outshines Riley Patterson’s uneasy reliability from inside 50.

Final score prediction

I expect a low-scoring game that hinges on special teams, takeaways and capitalizing on the few mistakes by the opponents. The banged-up Lions have a good chance to pull off the road upset, but the Ravens are a difficult matchup. Baltimore happens to need the win a lot more than Detroit in terms of playoff potential, too; all four teams in the AFC North have non-losing records, while the Lions could realistically lose their next three games and remain in first place. Detroit won’t think that way; not a chance. But the Ravens’ experience here helps them eke out a hard-fought home win. Ravens 23, Lions 21.

Lions pre-game mailbag: Getting ready for the Ravens

Lions pre-game mailbag: Getting ready for the Ravens and the trade deadline

Our Detroit Lions are 5-1 and are entering one of their toughest matchups on the year with the Baltimore Ravens on tap. Going on the road to Baltimore won’t be easy but the vibes are high in the Motor City right now. The Lions feel look like a team that can beat anyone so we’ll see what happens against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens. With that, I wanted to open my Twitter to Lions fans to ask me anything for a pre-game mailbag prior to the Lions/Ravens tilt in week seven. Let’s dive into your questions!

Q: Who do you think the Lions keyed in today at Ohio State/Penn State? — @GodComplexion 

A: Love this question because there was so much talent in this game. Certainly, the Lions had their eyes on wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. It’s unlikely he ends up being selected by the Lions in the 2024 NFL Draft but crazier things have happened. Aside from him, they definitely were watching Kalen King from Penn State.

The talented cornerback is a Detroit native. He played high school football for Cass Tech and has been fantastic this year. Prior to this game, he had only given up 9 receptions for 93 yards this season. He seems like a potential first round corner that could fit the Lions.

Another top name is Penn State offensive tackle Olu Fashanu. There’s a chance he’s the first offensive tackle selected next spring but if he’s not and there’s a run on other players, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Lions targeted this long and powerful offensive tackle.

Lastly, the Lions should have definitely circled the name Adisa Isaac. The Penn State defensive end is listed at 6’4″ and 254 pounds. He’s got a blend of power and explosiveness to his game. If the Lions are looking for another edge rusher to pair with Hutchinson, this could be an underrated fit for them.

Q: All I hear is trade talk. There any realistic deals to be had for Holmes? — @legendjc13 

A: I love the speculation around the trade deadline. Most years, not much happens around the deadline. Recently, there’s been some deals that occur. The Lions have shown that with the Hockenson trade last season.

That said, I don’t see them making a trade for big names such as Brian Burns, Danielle Hunter or Davante Adams. We can just stop with that. I’d be surprised if the Broncos parted ways with Patrick Surtain II and I don’t think the Lions are interested in Jerry Jeudy.

That leaves a pool of players that could be damaged goods. However, if there’s any team that can get the most out of a player, it would be Detroit. Even if it’s for the second half of the season. If I had to guess on a player that could use a change of scenery, I’d say New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes.

During his tenure with the Giants, he’s been used sparingly and has only started 11 games over his four-year career. Currently, he’s on the final year of his four-year rookie contract. Going into this season, he took a pay cut to stay with the Giants. However, he’s only played 28 defensive snaps this season but he’s only given up two receptions so far. With Emmanuel Moseley being done for the year with a torn ACL, I wonder if the Lions would be interested in trying to add some depth to their secondary for the second half of the season.

Q: In your estimation, should the Lions get wins against the Ravens & Raiders to stretch the winning streak to 6 before the bye week? — @MrEd315

A: I do think the Lions win against the Ravens and the Raiders. They won’t be easy games by any means but I think the Lions can pull off wins in both games and enter their bye week with a 7-1 record.

Against the Ravens, the Lions obviously have to enter the mobility that Lamar Jackson has but if they can force him to make a few bad throws, it could be enough to force a turnover or two. Meanwhile, the Lions offense is clicking. It doesn’t matter who is on the field. They just get after it. I think Gibbs, LaPorta and Williams have strong performances against the Ravens.

Q: How will Glenn scheme for Jackson? — @JosephPanteluk

A: This is the million dollar question this week. It’s well known that the Lions struggle with more mobile quarterbacks. But the Lions showed what can happen if they can contain quarterbacks that can move around and extend beyond the pocket with their 21-20 victory over the Chiefs this season. Patrick Mahomes was held to 45 yards rushing and he only had 226 yards passing.

For Lamar Jackson, he’s only hit that passing yardage (over 226 passing yards) total twice this season. The Lions defense gives up 221 yards passing per game so if they can keep him in the pocket and limit his ability to run, the Lions should be able to find success on defense.

The key will be having defensive ends playing with patience and at the heels of the offensive line to help contain the quarterback. Meanwhile, the Lions will need a second level defender to be able to patrol the middle with the ability to come down and meet Jackson in space. Could it be Brian Branch? I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s the case. It’ll be tough but it’s manageable.

Q: Hey Russ, what do you think is the Lions biggest weakness? — @bdrfab

A: Really good question here and I’m going to go back to what I said during the summer. It was concerning when the Lions only carried two running backs on their roster. Regardless of how good the Bucs run defense was a week ago, we saw the drop off in talent with their backfield without Montgomery and Gibbs.

While I love what Craig Reynolds provides from short yardage to special teams, I think the Lions should have looked at adding another back to their roster in the off-season. They’ll run with what they have but with how run focused the Lions are, it’s somewhat concerning that Montgomery and Gibbs have both been banged up through six weeks. For that playoff push, the Lions will need that rushing attack. Let’s hope they can get healthy.

 

Lions activate Josh Paschal in latest set of roster moves

Lions activate Josh Paschal in latest set of roster moves ahead of Week 7, which also includes promoting 2 RBs from the practice squad

Josh Paschal is back on the active roster. True to head coach Dan Campbell’s words on Friday, the Lions activated the second-year defensive lineman on Saturday ahead of the Week 7 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.

Paschal has been on injured reserve since the Week 1 win over the Chiefs. He suffered a knee injury that did not need surgery. The Lions started Paschal’s window to return on October 13th and activated him in time to play in Baltimore.

To make room for Paschal, the Lions released veteran tight end Darrell Daniels. That should be seen as a good sign that James Mitchell is healthy enough to play after missing time with a hamstring injury.

Detroit also promoted two running backs from the practice squad to the active roster for Week 7. Devine Ozigbo joins the gameday roster for the second week in a row. He’ll be joined by Mohamed Ibrahim, who was signed to the practice squad this week.

Lions downgrade two players for Week 7 matchup with the Ravens

Lions downgrade WR Marvin Jones and CB Jerry Jacobs for Week 7 matchup with the Ravens

The depth chart took a hit for the Detroit Lions on their travel day. The team announced on Saturday that WR Marvin Jones is out for Sunday’s game in Baltimore and CB Jerry Jacobs is questionable for the game.

Jones did not travel with the team for personal, non-injury reasons. He has played regularly across the formation for the Lions.

Jacobs is now listed with a knee injury. He was not on the practice injury report at any point during the week, including after Friday’s practice.

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Dan Campbell not worried about people who ‘didn’t like us 2 years ago’

Lions head coach Dan Campbell not worried about people who ‘didn’t like us 2 years ago’

The Detroit Lions have come a long way over the last two seasons under GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell. From the 0-10-1 start in 2021 to the 5-1 surge to the top of the 2023 standings, that movement upward has brought a lot of attention and acclaim.

Campbell isn’t unappreciative of the praise he and his team are getting now, but he’s not going to forget that many of the same voices loudly supporting him now were condemning the Lions not long ago.

The head coach was asked on Friday if it means a lot to Campbell and Holmes that they’re the toast of the NFL town right now.

“No. I don’t mean that negatively, it’s just – I mean a lot of people didn’t like us two years ago, so we don’t forget those and we’re the same two people, we’re the same team,” Campbell said.

The coach continued with a deeper explanation of his reasoning,

“We’ve just gone about our business. We haven’t changed anything. So, we’re worried about – all we care about is what our players think and the coaches and the personnel and me and Brad and that’s it. And so, we’ve got a job to do and we’re just going to keep doing it.”

Lions final injury status for Week 7 vs. the Ravens: 2 offensive starters ruled out

Two offensive starters are out vs. the Ravens, but the final injury report could have been a lot worse for the banged-up Lions

The Detroit Lions will be without two starters on the offense for the Week 7 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. The final injury report ruled out only two, however, with three more Lions listed as questionable.

Right guard Jonah Jackson (ankle) and running back David Montgomery (ribs) will be out with their injuries. Neither is a surprise in being ruled out from playing in Baltimore.

Three players are questionable:

TE James Mitchell (hamstring)

DL Josh Paschal (knee)

RB Craig Reynolds (hamstring/toe)

Paschal is still on the team’s injured reserve. Detroit started the 21-day return window last Friday. He is eligible to play as soon as he’s activated.

Three rookies will play without any injury designation, a very welcome boost for the team. First-round RB Jahmyr Gibbs, TE Sam LaPorta and second-round DB Brian Branch all avoided any injury designation after being full participants in Friday’s practice.

Earlier on Friday, head coach Dan Campbell was optimistic on Gibbs playing. “Yeah, I think he’s going to be a go. He looked pretty good yesterday,” Campbell said of the rookie RB.

Jahmyr Gibbs ‘looked pretty good’, should play vs. Ravens

Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs ‘looked pretty good’, should play vs. Ravens despite hamstring injury

While the official injury designation isn’t out just yet, there was good news on the status of Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs and his injured hamstring. Gibbs, who has not played in two weeks, appears ready to play in Detroit’s Week 7 matchup with the Ravens in Baltimore.

During his pre-practice press conference on Friday, head coach Dan Campbell was optimistic on Gibbs playing. “Yeah, I think he’s going to be a go. He looked pretty good yesterday,” Campbell said of the rookie RB.

Campbell added,

“Yeah, he looks good. He looks good.”

That’s very good news for the Lions, who figure to be without lead back David Montgomery and his rib injury. Gibbs started in place of an injured Montgomery in the Week 3 win over Atlanta. He rushed for 80 yards on 17 carries.

Dan Campbell provides insight on the Lions trade deadline intentions

Detroit Lions HC Dan Campbell provides insight on trade deadline approach and has trust in GM Brad Holmes through the process

The Detroit Lions have been garnering widespread praise for their impressive turnaround and strong performance this season. It’s been a while since the Lions were mentioned alongside the NFL’s elite teams. Furthermore, their chances of making it to the Super Bowl are on the rise, thanks to their dominant performances against formidable opponents.

Traditionally, the Lions are sellers at the trade deadline, especially when their season isn’t going well. However, this year, they find themselves in contention and might become potential buyers during the upcoming trade season to bolster any potential weak spots that could hinder their playoff aspirations.

For those familiar with the team, it’s clear that they’re always on the lookout for ways to enhance their roster, whether through significant or minor moves. During his press conference today, HC Dan Campbell acknowledged ongoing discussions, indicating that GM Brad Holmes is diligently exploring potential trade deals.

“He’s (Brad Holmes) looking, he’s seeing if something’s out there, if (there is) something that makes sense, but ultimately, that’s – I trust him. He’s going to handle it and if it’s something that’s serious, he’ll bring it to me, otherwise, I just – I handle my business, getting this team ready to play the next week and whatever does or does not happen, I trust Brad 100 percent. It’s going to be for the better of us, betterment of our team.”

Holmes isn’t hesitant to make impactful decisions if he believes they benefit the team, a fact well understood by Campbell. They’ve maintained seamless communication and alignment since day one, coordinating efforts on free agent signings, trades, and the draft with the common goal of enhancing the team. Their mutual trust is a primary driving force behind the team’s current success.

The Lions’ activity at the upcoming trade deadline remains uncertain. Should they decide to make moves, it’s likely to involve smaller deals aimed at strengthening the team’s depth. Injuries have hit key positions, such as running back, cornerback, and offensive line, and they may explore trade options to address these areas. Regardless of the outcome, Holmes and Campbell have garnered widespread trust, with the expectation that any action taken will be in the best interest of the team’s improvement.

Lions special teams coach has ‘no problems’ with Kalif Raymond’s risky punt return decisions

Lions special teams coach Dave Fipp has “no problems” with Kalif Raymond’s risky punt return decisions from the win over Tampa Bay

During the Detroit Lions’ Week 6 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, wide receiver Kalif Raymond seemingly violated one of the well-worn edicts of football. He fielded not one but two Buccaneers punts inside his own 5-yard line.

Neither return went well for Raymond. The first attempt, leading into Detroit’s first offensive possession, ended at the Detroit 10-yard line. The second saw Raymond sneak out to the 15, avoiding two tackles on the way.

Fielding a punt inside the 10 is normally a football taboo. And the poor outcomes for Raymond in Tampa Bay demonstrate why it’s rarely done outside of emergency situations.

Yet Lions special teams coach Dave Fipp didn’t have a problem with Raymond’s decisions. “No problems with any of it,” Fipp said on Thursday.

In an entertaining but meandering press conference Q&A session that also discussed country music, fly fishing, military graduation ceremonies and dreaming of 1980s movies, Fipp did address a question about Raymond’s risky business in fielding punts inside the 10-yard line.

“There’s a risk to it, there’s a reward to it. You’re balancing out both those things,” Fipp said. “You obviously don’t want to put your team in a negative position. We do have a lot of confidence in (Raymond) Leaf back there. I think when you have a good player back there and a guy who’s confident in himself and believes he can make something happen, you don’t want to take that away from him too much either, so there’s a fine line. But I believe in everything he did back there. I’ve got no problems with any of it.”

Raymond is averaging 9.6 yards per punt return for this season after averaging 13.2 a year ago. He did have a long return of 15 yards against the Buccaneers.

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Detroit Lions Podcast: Celebrating how far the Lions have come in a year

Detroit Lions Podcast: Celebrating how far the Lions have come in a year with a walk on the beach with Lions Wire’s Jeff Risdon

Normally we record the weekly live episode of the Detroit Lions Podcast on Wednesday nights. I couldn’t fit that in the schedule this week, so I opted to record a quick video on my own.

Some people like to touch grass to ground themselves. I touch sand. With a seasonably warm day and a little time to myself, that’s what I did. This video is shot at Holland State Park and it celebrates how far the Detroit Lions have come in a year.

At this date last year, the Lions were 1-4. They’d lost 29-0 to the Patriots before the bye week. They would lose that Sunday too, badly beaten 24-6 by the Cowboys to drop to 1-5 in a game where Jared Goff turned the ball over four times. It was a dark time, with fans and media exasperated at what was looking like another failed rebuild.

Owner Sheila Hamp didn’t panic. She doubled down on Dan Campbell, Brad Holmes and Goff. We’re all better for it now. The Lions quickly righted the ship and have gone 13-4 in the last 17 games, including a league-best 5-1 in 2023. Goff is a legit MVP candidate and Campbell a front-runner for Coach of the year honors.

Take a little walk on the beach with me and enjoy the revitalized Lions!