Morning 4: Detroit Lions Anticipate Key Player Returns for Divisional Round Showdown Against Washington Commanders
The Detroit Lions, fresh off a strong campaign in the 2024 NFL season, are gearing up for their highly anticipated matchup against the Washington Commanders in the NFC Divisional Round. The Lions, who have not been to the playoffs in several years, are poised to make a deep run this season, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With a combination of young talent, seasoned veterans, and an aggressive game plan, Detroit is hungry for playoff success. However, the biggest boost for the Lions as they head into this critical game is the anticipated return of several key players.
Key Player Returns for Detroit Lions
One of the most significant storylines heading into the Divisional Round is the potential return of cornerback Jeff Okudah and running back Jahmyr Gibbs, two pivotal players for Detroit’s success this season. Both have been sidelined with injuries, and their availability for the game will play a crucial role in how the Lions prepare for the Commanders.
Jeff Okudah’s Return to the Secondary
Okudah, a former third-overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a key figure in Detroit’s defensive secondary. After an injury-plagued start to his career, Okudah has shown flashes of his potential this season, becoming one of the cornerstones of the Lions’ defense. His ability to lock down top wide receivers is a game-changer, and his return will certainly give Detroit’s secondary a much-needed boost.
The Lions’ defense has been improving steadily, but facing the Commanders’ potent offense led by quarterback Sam Howell and wide receiver Terry McLaurin will be a tough test. Okudah’s ability to cover McLaurin, one of the league’s top playmakers, could be the difference between a win and a loss for Detroit.
If Okudah is able to suit up for the game, it will allow defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn to be more aggressive with his schemes, knowing that Okudah can handle one-on-one coverage situations. This would allow the Lions to bring more pressure on Howell, potentially forcing turnovers and creating more opportunities for Detroit’s offense.
Jahmyr Gibbs and the Running Game
Gibbs, the dynamic rookie running back, has been a revelation in Detroit’s offense this season. Known for his explosive speed and vision, Gibbs has been a dual-threat for the Lions, contributing both as a rusher and as a receiver out of the backfield. However, Gibbs has been dealing with an injury in recent weeks, and his status for the game against Washington is still uncertain.
If Gibbs is able to play, it would provide a huge boost to the Lions’ offense. He adds a layer of versatility that the Commanders’ defense would struggle to prepare for. Pairing him with veteran David Montgomery in the backfield gives the Lions two distinct weapons, making it harder for the defense to predict Detroit’s play calling. The Commanders’ defense has been solid against the run, but Gibbs’ elusiveness could give the Lions an edge in creating big plays and keeping the Washington defense on its toes.
If Gibbs is unable to go, the Lions will have to lean on Montgomery more heavily, which could still be effective given Montgomery’s power and ability to churn out tough yards. Still, having Gibbs in the fold would elevate the offense significantly.
Detroit’s Offensive Line and Quarterback Play
While the potential returns of Okudah and Gibbs are huge, Detroit’s success ultimately hinges on the performance of their offensive line and quarterback Jared Goff. Goff has been stellar this season, providing consistent play at the quarterback position and leading the Lions’ offense to one of the league’s highest-scoring units. The offensive line, one of the best in the NFL, has done an excellent job protecting Goff, allowing him to operate in a clean pocket and make throws downfield.
Facing a tough Commanders defense, led by pass rusher Montez Sweat and linebacker Jamin Davis, Detroit’s offensive line will have to be at its best to protect Goff and establish the run game. If Goff has time to survey the field and make reads, he has the weapons around him to put up points in bunches. Wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Josh Reynolds provide Goff with a reliable group of pass-catchers, and tight ends Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright have been key contributors in the passing game.
The Lions’ offensive line will need to handle the Commanders’ defensive front, which can apply pressure and disrupt the rhythm of Detroit’s passing game. If Goff has time to throw and the run game gets going, the Lions should be in good shape to put up points.
Washington Commanders: A Tough Opponent
While the Lions are the favorites in this matchup, the Washington Commanders are no slouches. The Commanders are led by second-year quarterback Sam Howell, who has shown significant growth this season. Howell has demonstrated poise under pressure and has the ability to make plays with both his arm and legs. His deep ball accuracy and ability to read defenses make him a dangerous weapon, and the Lions’ defense will need to account for his mobility.
Washington’s offense also features Terry McLaurin, one of the NFL’s top wide receivers. McLaurin has consistently been a big-play threat, capable of stretching the field and making contested catches. If Okudah is able to play, he will likely draw the assignment of covering McLaurin, which could prove to be one of the most crucial matchups of the game.
The Commanders’ run game is led by Brian Robinson Jr., a powerful back who is tough to bring down in short-yardage situations. Detroit’s defense will need to be disciplined and tackle well to avoid giving up big runs to Robinson. Washington’s offensive line, though not as dominant as some others in the league, can be effective in controlling the line of scrimmage, especially if Detroit’s defense gets complacent.
Defensively, the Commanders have several playmakers, most notably Montez Sweat, a dominant pass rusher who can disrupt Goff’s rhythm. Sweat’s ability to create pressure off the edge will force Goff to make quicker decisions and could potentially lead to turnovers if the Lions aren’t careful.
Detroit’s Path to Victory
To secure a win against the Commanders and advance to the NFC Championship, Detroit will need to execute on both sides of the ball. The offense will need to be balanced, with a strong run game and timely passes to keep Washington’s defense guessing. Goff will have to avoid costly mistakes and capitalize on opportunities when they arise.
On defense, the Lions will need to apply pressure to Sam Howell while being disciplined in their coverage of McLaurin. The secondary, if Okudah is available, will need to step up and limit the big plays that can shift the momentum in Washington’s favor. Detroit’s linebackers and defensive line will also need to control the line of scrimmage and limit Robinson’s impact on the ground.
