David Chao, MD
2 min read • September 28, 2023
Posted in
This Thursday night's football clash between the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers promises to deliver an exciting NFC North showdown. Both squads enter the matchup with impressive 2-1 records, coming off recent victories. It's worth noting that this game marks a significant change from the past decade as Aaron Rodgers is no longer leading the Packers. Instead, the reins have been handed over to Jordan Love, while Jared Goff enters his third season as the signal-caller for the Lions.
In this pivotal divisional matchup, both teams will rely heavily on their star players to make an impact. However, the outcome could hinge on the status of key players dealing with injuries, potentially tilting the game in favor of one side.
Detroit Lions power back David Montgomery will make his return tonight against the Packers, according to reports. He suffered a thigh bruise in Week 2, causing him to sit out Week 3. Lions head coach Dan Campbell has expressed optimism about Montgomery's potential return and that matched our analysis early this week.
Decker is currently listed as questionable for the upcoming matchup against the Packers, but will reportedly play after missing Weeks 2 and 3. He suffered a left high ankle sprain in Week 1.
Decker has been a cornerstone of the Lions' offensive line for eight seasons, establishing himself as a dependable presence. However, he will likely have limited mobility with his outside leg.
Jones will make his return against the Lions after missing Weeks 2 and 3 with a left hamstring strain. He will still split snaps with A.J. Dillon and may be used slightly less to avoid reaggravation of the hamstring.
He had nine carries this season before sustaining a left hamstring strain during a substantial run.
Reported have confirmed that Watson is set to make his return this Thursday. Anticipating his comeback, it's worth noting that the team is likely to exercise caution. We expect Watson to be on a pitch count during his initial game back, a precaution to reduce the risk of reaggravating his hamstring injury.
Watson broke out at the end of last season by scoring seven touchdowns in a four-game stretch. He had been poised to continue his promising performance following a solid rookie year, but he suffered a hamstring injury in training camp that caused him to miss the season’s first three weeks.
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Written by David Chao, MD
