Sunday, October 25, 2026

Lions Links for Sunday 10-25-26

Articles:

FOUR DOWNS: Branch makes immediate impact in return to game action:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/four-downs-branch-makes-immediate-impact-in-return-to-game-action-stbrown-bates

RECAP: Lions vs. Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/recap-lions-vs-packers-goff-williams-stbrown-branch


Lions Injury Update Confirms Star Avoided Serious Issue:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-injury-update-confirms-star-avoided-serious-issue

Key Takeaways From Detroit Lions 20-17 Victory Against Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/key-takeaways-detroit-lions-20-17-victory-against-packers


Dan Campbell explains 4th-down decision that could’ve cost Lions game vs. Packers:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-news/178253/dan-campbell-explains-4th-down-decision-couldve-cost-lions-game-vs-packers



7 Lions winners and 3 losers from the Packers win: Brian Branch is back, but one big lineup decision already looks shaky:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/7-lions-winners-and-3-losers-from-the-packers-win-brian-branch-is-back-but-one-big-lineup-decision-already-looks-shaky/

What We Learned About the Lions: The Lions somehow survived the Packers in one of the drunkest games you’ll ever see, and Brian Branch made his return count:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/what-we-learned-about-the-lions-the-lions-somehow-survived-the-packers-in-one-of-the-drunkest-games-youll-ever-see-and-brian-branch-made-his-return-count/

Are the Lions, Falcons, Bengals and Giants on the right track? Lingering questions from NFL Week 7 (Detroit 20, Green Bay 17 - Lions:  Has the Lions' defense turned the corner? The Lions defense entered the week as one of the worst units in the NFL, and Sunday's game against a surging Packers offense looked daunting. But the defense held strong. Detroit allowed just 17 points, forced a turnover -- by recently returned DB Brian Branch -- and held Green Bay to 5-of-15 on third down. Couple Sunday with an encouraging effort against the Cardinals before their bye, and there's two weeks of evidence DC Kelvin Sheppard's troops may finally be trending in the right direction.  Trend to watch: Wideout Jameson Williams is becoming more of a focal point in the offense. His two touchdown catches Sunday made him the third player this season with multiple receiving TDs in back-to-back games, joining Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. -- ESPN Staff):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50239544/week-7-sunday-games-takeaways-questions-2026

NFL Week 7 Recap: Green Bay Packers 17, Detroit Lions 20:  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-week-7-recap-green-bay-packers-17-detroit-lions-20

2026 NFL season, Week 7: What We Learned from Sunday's games (Lions 20 Packers 17 - Kevin Patra's takeaways:  1. Lions escape with win over Packers in sloppy affair. Dan Campbell’s club didn’t make it easy. Detroit committed a host of offensive miscues, including back-to-back fumbles to end the second quarter and open the third. With a chance to extend a three-point lead, the Lions marched into the red zone, but Jahmyr Gibbs fumbled. Detroit came out in the second half and botched a snap between Cade Mays, playing his first game of the season, and Jared Goff. The swing let Green Bay take its first lead of the game. Detroit stalled several times, including failing on fourth down in the red zone and turning it over on downs on its 24-yard line with less than five minutes remaining. Luckily for the Lions, Green Bay made more miscues, and Detroit benefited from several penalties. After the Packers botched their second kick, Detroit marched down the field to secure the game-winning field goal as time expired. The ease with which the Lions offense can move the ball at times only makes their toe-stubs more head-scratching. Goff continued his excellent season, throwing for 303 yards and two touchdowns and picking apart the Packers' secondary with ease for stretches. If not for the miscues, the scoreboard could have looked much different. Detroit gobbled up 415 yards, got 26 first downs, and punted only twice, but scored just 20 points. 2.  Packers have a Smack problem. Green Bay rookie kicker Trey Smack missed two easy kicks, a 26-yarder on the opening drive and a 35-yarder on the last possession. The first miss was pushed right, and the second was tipped, partly because Smack didn't get enough air on such a short kick. With kickers routinely able to bash long, 60-yard boots this year, it's cringeworthy that Smack missed two chippies. In a close game, that difference mattered. Smack, however, wasn’t the only Packers player whose mistake contributed to the loss. Once again, the offense dropped too many passes, including one by Josh Jacobs that would have gone for a TD (ruining what was otherwise a good return for the running back). Jordan Love threw an arm-punt interception. Goff gutted the defense that had little pass rush. It looked like we’d have a track meet early in Detroit, but the wheels came off both cars due to mechanical and mental mistakes.  3.  Lions defense not terrible. Detroit entered the game with the NFL's worst pass defense. While it still allowed Love to throw for 274 yards and two TDs, it wasn’t as easy as some passers have found it against the Lions. Detroit’s defense stepped up in spots, forcing the first-drive field goal, turning the Packers over on downs in the red zone, forcing two three-and-outs and getting a stop after Dan Campbell’s decision to go for it from his own 24. Brian Branch’s return helped, as the safety netted the fourth-quarter interception. Branch played 43 snaps in his return (66.2%). Most of the Packers' pass production came against the linebackers, with Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes combining to allow 127 yards and two TDs in coverage. They still have strides to make, but given where they were early in the season, count Sunday as a significant step.  Next Gen Stats Insight for Lions-Packers (via NFL Pro): Aidan Hutchinson generated seven pressures at an average time to pressure of 2.49 seconds in Week 7 against the Packers, the quickest average time he has recorded this season.  NFL Research: Jared Goff is the only player to have multiple games with 300-plus passing yards, multiple passing touchdowns and zero interceptions in 2026 and now has 18 such games over the last five seasons, eight more than any other player since 2022. Goff broke a tie with Matthew Stafford for the most such games in Lions franchise history.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2026-nfl-season-week-7-what-we-learned-from-sunday-s-games

Jared Goff Leads Lions Past Packers, Earning Tom Brady’s LFG Player Of The Game:  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/jared-goff-leads-lions-past-packers-earning-tom-bradys-lfg-player-game

Detroit Holds Onto Valuable Win: 3 Takeaways From The Lions' Win Over The Packers:  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/green-bay-packers-vs-detroit-lions-takeaways-week-7-october-25

Lions vs. Packers Highlights: Jake Bates’ FG Lifts Detroit Over Green Bay:  https://www.foxsports.com/live-blog/nfl/packers-vs-lions-live-updates-score


NFL Week 7 Good, Bad and Ugly: Ravens Continue Hallmark Issue Against Bengals (BAD: Every coach who now hates taking the points.  The Packers and Lions played a riveting game at Ford Field, with Detroit coming out on top 20–17 to stay within two games in the loss column of the unbeaten Vikings in the NFC North.   But the bigger-picture story might be the continuation of a league-wide trend: more coaches refusing easy points in an all-out frenzy for touchdowns.   In Detroit, the Packers and Lions each rolled the dice on fourth down inside the opponent’s 10-yard line, only to come up snake eyes. In the second quarter and trailing 10–7, Green Bay faced fourth-and-4 at Detroit’s 7-yard line. Incomplete pass. In the third quarter, the Lions led 17–14 and had fourth-and-5 at the Packers’ 6-yard line—incomplete pass.  Then there was the worst call of the day: Detroit coach Dan Campbell chose not to punt from his own 24-yard line in a 17–17 tie with under five minutes left. Instead, he called a run play—stuffed.  Analytics often say to play aggressively, but a game’s feel can be an art form. At times, that art seems to be lost. In the fourth quarter and trailing 14–13 to the Bengals, Ravens coach Jesse Minter could have stemmed the tide of Cincinnati’s momentum, with the Bengals having scored two unanswered touchdowns. Instead, Minter eschewed a 30-yard field goal attempt and gambled on fourth-and-2 with Tyler Huntley—incomplete pass.  There are times to play for a touchdown. There are also times to tie up a key divisional game, or take a six-point lead and control the scoreboard. Or, in Minter’s case, slow the tsunami and inject life into your wilting team. Football isn’t played on a spreadsheet. Or it shouldn’t be, anyway.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/nfl-week-7-good-bad-ugly-steelers-aaron-rodgers-turns-back-clock

National TE Day winners and losers: Davis Allen, Mason Taylor shine; Isaiah Likely, Sam LaPorta have holiday duds (National TE Day losers - Sam LaPorta, Lions.  Fresh off a pretty clear message to the Lions that he's prepared to leave unless the team ups its contract offer, LaPorta put up just one catch for 18 yards against the Packers. With big days from Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs, however, Detroit picked up a win over the Packers.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/national-te-day-winners-losers-holiday/054e2d9dfbdcc781800c99f0

Micah Parsons called out 2 suspect roughing-the-passer calls that cost the Packers:  https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/25/micah-parsons-roughing-passer-packers-call-out/92437080007/


Jahmyr Gibbs on injury watch after scary slide at end of Lions-Packers:  https://www.thebiglead.com/jahmyr-gibbs-injury-watch-scary-slide-lions-packers/

Amon-Ra St. Brown cleated a referee while getting body-slammed by Packers defender:  https://www.thebiglead.com/amon-ra-st-brown-body-slammed-packers-cleated-referee-flag/








Jake Bates kicks 22-yard FG as time expires to give Lions 20-17 win over Packers:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap/_/gameId/401873020

Referee in Packers-Lions game responds to questions about disputed penalties:  https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/referee-packers-lions-game-responds-012117914.html

Grades:

CBS Grades (Lions Grade: B.  There's a fine line between being aggressive and being crazy, and Dan Campbell was certainly walking it in this game. Campbell had the Lions go for it on fourth-and-1 from their own 24 in the fourth quarter, and although they failed, Detroit's special teams bailed Campbell out by tipping the kick and knocking it off course. And that was the story of the day for the Lions: Whenever they needed someone to come up with a big play, they got it. The offense was firing on all cylinders with Jared Goff (303 passing yards), Jahmyr Gibbs (116 rushing yards) and Amon Ra St. Brown (153 receiving yards) all going off. The Lions defense came through with its best performance of the season, holding an opponent under 21 points for the first time all year. This was a well-rounded win by a Lions team that's undefeated at home this season (3-0).):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-7-grades-falcons-buccaneers-giants-panthers/

Video:











Every Jameson Williams catch from 2-TD game vs. Packers | Week 7:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/every-jameson-williams-catch-from-2-td-game-vs-packers-week-7

Jahmyr Gibbs' best plays from 143-yard game vs. Packers Week 7:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/jahmyr-gibbs-best-plays-from-143-yard-game-vs-packers-week-7

Every Amon-Ra St. Brown catch from 153-yard game vs. Packers | Week 7:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/every-amon-ra-st-brown-catch-from-153-yard-game-vs-packers-week-7

HIGHLIGHT: Goff finds Williams for the duo's second TD of the game:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-goff-finds-williams-for-the-duo-s-second-td-of-the-game

HIGHLIGHT: Williams' leaping pylon-reach TD opens scoring:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-williams-leaping-pylon-reach-td-opens-scoring

HIGHLIGHT: Walk-off winner in Detroit! Bates delivers FG over division rival Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-walk-off-winner-in-detroit-bates-delivers-fg-over-division-rival-packers

Jake Bates puts Lions in lead with 40-yard FG vs. Packers:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jake-bates-puts-lions-in-lead-with-40-yard-fg-vs-packers

Jahmyr Gibbs selflessly seals Lions win with clutch first down run:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jahmyr-gibbs-selflessly-seals-lions-win-with-clutch-first-down-run

Jahmyr Gibbs churns through Packers defense for 15-yard run:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jahmyr-gibbs-churns-through-packers-defense-for-15-yard-run

Sam LaPorta's first catch of game comes in crunch time for 18 yards:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/sam-laporta-s-first-catch-of-game-comes-in-crunch-time-for-18-yards

Jared Goff's 30-yard connection with Jameson Williams gets Lions into Packers' territory:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jared-goff-s-30-yard-connection-with-jameson-williams-gets-lions-into-packers-territory

Amon-Ra St. Brown is wide open on 40-yard gain vs. Packers:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/amon-ra-st-brown-is-wide-open-on-40-yard-gain-vs-packers

Jameson Williams finds space on 24-yard gain from Goff:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jameson-williams-finds-space-on-24-yard-gain-from-goff

Jared Goff finds Amon-Ra St. Brown for 28 yards:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-goff-finds-st-brown-for-28-yards


HIGHLIGHT: BB is back! Branch gets UP to intercept Love:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-bb-is-back-branch-gets-up-to-intercept-love

Turnover on downs: Lions stuff Packers' red-zone pass play on fourth down:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/turnover-on-downs-lions-stuff-packers-red-zone-pass-play-on-fourth-down

Aidan Hutchinson's fifth sack of 2026 results in 10-yard loss for Jordan Love:  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/highlight-hutchinson-drops-love-for-10-yard-loss

Instant Reaction to Detroit Lions Defeating Green Bay Packers 20-17:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/instant-reaction-detroit-lions-defeating-233941249.html

Tom Brady’s LFG Player of the Game: Lions’ Jared Goff | Week 7 DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M42XyVaCMM

Posted by LionsFan at 10:20 PM 0 comments

2027 Mock Draft Round Up #3

Tankathon (21. CB Kelley Jones) (10-25-26):  https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/mock-draft

Athlonsports (21. Detroit Lions - Ashton Hampton | CB | Clemson:  Even before they had to move on from a recent first-round pick in Terrion Arnold, the Lions already had depth issues in the secondary, and now they need to find a new No. 1 corner. Hampton has an ideal combination of size and length for the position, and he’s shown impressive technique and competitiveness so far this season. If he continues to make the most of his physical tools while showing all of those intangible traits, he could quickly become the best corner on this roster.) (10-23-26):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2027-nfl-mock-draft-updated-first-round-darian-mensah-arch-manning-cj-carr

AtoZ Sports DeLeone and Roberts (22. Detroit Lions — Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State:  Detroit adds help in the secondary with Jones. A young cornerback who can compete for playing time and develop into a reliable coverage option would help the Lions manage the demands of facing high-powered passing offenses. His ability to handle different receiver types and remain consistent in coverage will be important to his NFL outlook.) (10-22-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/2027-nfl-mock-draft-early-quarterback-run-jeremiah-smith-reunited-old-friend-drew-mestemakar-arch-manning/

Walter Football Charlie (21. Ashton Hampton , CB, Clemson :  The Lions' terrible cornerback play is a result of Brad Holmes decisions like drafting Hendon Hooker instead of Tyrique Stevenson, selecting Terrion Arnold over Nate Wiggins or Kamari Lassiter, and signing D.J. Reed instead of re-signing Carlton Davis. Detroit badly needs cornerback talent. In 2026, Hampton has 19 tackles, one interception, and nine passes broken up thus far. To open 2026, on the second play of the blowout loss to LSU, Hampton had a nice interception of Sam Leavitt. Hampton was excellent versus Miami, showing the speed and twitch to cover the ultra-fast Malachi Toney. That was a huge tape for Hampton to show he can run with speed receivers. Hampton (6-3, 204) is a big cover corner who is long and physical. In 2025, he totaled 45 tackles with eight passes broken up and an interception. He had 27 tackles with two interceptions and five breakups as a freshman.) (10-22-26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2027charlie.php?rbBot

SI Manzano (21. Detroit Lions (3–2): Devan Thompkins, edge, Alabama:  The USC transfer has made the most of the extra attention he’s gotten from playing next to Yhonzae Pierre at Alabama. He’s bigger than most edge rushers (6'5", 300 pounds) and knows how to use his size and strength to his advantage. He’s a polished pass rusher who could end Detroit’s long search for a serviceable No. 2 opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Thompkins has three sacks and one forced fumble.) (10-21-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/2027-nfl-mock-draft-gilberto-manzano-pick-predictions-rounds-1-2

CBS Edwards (23. DE Boubacar Traore - PROSPECT RNK:  29th, POSITION RNK:  6th. Cornerback is a bigger need, but it may be easier to attack that position on Day 2. Detroit used a second-round pick on edge rusher Derrick Moore in 2026, but the team should not stop there, given its issues in recent years.) (10-19-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2027-nfl-mock-draft-week-6-quarterback-shake-up/

AtoZ Sports Crabbs and Gregson (22. Detroit Lions — Clev Lubin, EDGE, Louisville:  Detroit’s defensive depth chart hasn’t been at full health for quite some time. But one spot that has constantly been in need is the EDGE2 position. Yes, DJ Wonnum and second-round pick Derrick Moore are in-house. But I think Lubin is a brand fit for the Lions like few players in this class.  54. TE Luke Reynolds) (10-15-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/2-round-2027-nfl-mock-draft-drew-mestemaker-arch-manning-jeremiah-smith-dante-moore/

USA Today Middlehurst-Schwartz (19. Detroit Lions – Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia: Whether in free agency or the draft, Detroit has to take drastic steps to upgrade a woefully undermanned secondary. A former five-star recruit, Robinson offers the size and athleticism to hang in man coverage as well as the coverage instincts and ball skills to thrive in zone looks. The former five-star recruit might take some time to settle in as a pro, but he gives the defense some hope for holding up against top receivers in the long term.) (10-14-26):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/10/14/nfl-mock-draft-2027-arch-manning/92235302007/

Walter Football Walt (25.  Damon Wilson II, DE, Missouri:  The Lions really liked Keldric Faulk, but had to pass on him for a tackle. Here's another bookend for Aidan Hutchinson.  Damon Wilson has great speed off the edge.) (10-14-26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2027_1.php


PFF McGuiness (25. Detroit Lions: IOL Kade Pieper, Iowa - PFF Big Board Rank: 37.  Juice Scruggs is playing the best football of his career with the Lions this season, but he is set to become a free agent in 2027. That could make center one of Detroit's top needs heading into next season. Pieper has played right guard this season, earning PFF grades above 85.0 in both pass blocking and run blocking, and should be capable of making the move to center.) (10-13-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-mock-draft-1-jeremiah-smith-goes-no-1-to-titans-five-qbs-land-in-first-round

Fox sports Rang (15. Detroit Lions: Ashton Hampton, CB, Clemson - Compelled to release former first-round pick Terrion Arnold following an offseason arrest, the Lions have since struggled in coverage and acknowledged they were in on Joey Porter Jr. trade talks. With Porter now in Dallas, Detroit may have little choice but to wait until next year to patch the position. Hampton has the size and agility to project as a future star in the NFL.) (10-8-26):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2027-nfl-mock-draft-arch-manning-first-qb-selected-jeremiah-smith-no-1-overall

Yahoo Tice (15. Detroit Lions — Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State:  As the late Owen Hart would say, "enough is enough and it's time for a change." The Lions desperately could use two things: A center (Minnesota's Greg Johnson came to mind) or a cornerback. They choose to improve one of the biggest holes in the NFL right now, even with three cornerbacks off the board. Jones has been a more consistent player to start this season and can fit in both zone or man schemes. His Inspector Gadget arms head up north to Detroit.) (10-8-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/2027-nfl-mock-draft-first-version-includes-a-huge-trade-that-powers-arch-manning-to-no-1-spot-170653524.html

Yahoo (15. Detroit Lions — Dylan Stewart, Edge, South Carolina:  Figuring out where Stewart fits in this class now — or whether he might stay in college — is trickier than it was a month ago. Stewart's suspension has raised some character questions, although it appears he's back on a track to return to playing. Stewart's production has also been somewhat underwhelming considering his rare gifts. If he can find a way to display those skills, this might be too tempting for Detroit to pass on. The Lions badly need a rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson.) (10-8-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/2027-nfl-mock-draft-10-5-quarterbacks-land-in-round-1-but-wr-jeremiah-smith-lands-at-no-1-154904997.html

Athletic Baumgartner (19. Detroit Lions: Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia - Detroit’s situation in the secondary is a mess right now, and few teams are as light at corner. Robinson is a bit undersized, at 6-0, 180, but he is very long and extremely fluid athletically. This could be about the first-round floor for the former five-star prospect.) (10-7-26):  https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7665591/2026/10/07/nfl-mock-draft-2027-smith-carr/

CBS Wilson (25. Ty Benefield S - PROSPECT RNK:  57th.  POSITION RNK:  4th.  The Lions have two of the best safeties in football ... when they're healthy. Benefield is a tackling machine coming downhill, but he's been good in coverage, too.) (10-5-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2027-nfl-mock-draft-arch-manning-first-round-quarterback/

Draftwire Banks (16. Detroit, Zabien Brown, CB, Alabama:  The OnePride really needs to improve pass defense.) (10-5-26):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/10/05/time-for-a-full-nfl-mock-draft-update-with-more-player-descriptions/92105596007/ 

OnSI Melo (21. Detroit Lions: Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State - The Detroit Lions were allowing a league-high 299.3 passing yards per game prior to Sunday Night Football. The Terrion Arnold situation did not help. Cornerback will be high on Brad Holmes' offseason to-do list. Mississippi State's Kelley Jones has carried over the momentum from his breakout 2025 season to 2026, having already recorded six pass breakups.) (10-5-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/2027-nfl-mock-draft-trinidad-chambliss-crashes-the-qb1-race

Round 1 (10 CB, 5 DE, 2 S, 1 G):

4 CB Kelley Jones
3 CB Ashton Hampton 
2 CB Ellis Robinson IV
1 CB Zabien Brown
1 S Ty Benefield 
1 S KJ Bolden
1 DE  Damon Wilson II
1 DE Clev Lubin
1 DE Dylan Stewart
1 DE Boubacar Traore
1 DE Devan Thompkins
1 G Kade Pieper

Round 2 (1 TE):

1 TE Luke Reynolds 



Posted by LionsFan at 3:23 PM 0 comments

Pre-Game Lions Links for Sunday 10-25-26

Articles:

INACTIVES: Lions vs. Packers:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/inactives-lions-vs-packers-branch-mays



Detroit Lions Second-Year DE Remains Inactive Against Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-ahmed-hassanein-remains-inactive-against-packers

Setting Lions Fans Expectation for Alim McNeill Against Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/setting-lions-fans-expectation-for-alim-mcneill-against-packers

Key Matchup Detroit Lions Must Win Against Green Bay Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/key-matchup-detroit-lions-must-win-against-packers-week-seven




Amon-Ra St. Brown vs. Packers Week 7: Three Expectations for Lions WR:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/amon-ra-st-brown-lions-packers-week-7-expectations

Here's What Should Scare the Detroit Lions About the Green Bay Packers' Takeaway Machine:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/what-should-scare-lions-packers-week-7



Packers Media:

Josh Jacobs Will Play vs. Lions; How Should Packers Handle Offense Going Forward?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/josh-jacobs-will-play-vs-lions-how-should-packers-run-offense-going-forward

Sacked: Three Reasons Why Packers Will Lose Shootout Against Powerful Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/sacked-three-reasons-why-packers-will-lose-shootout-against-powerful-lions

Predictions:

Week 7:  

Video:

Lions Gameday Live: Week 7 against Green Bay Packers:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-ri0lcnig7zifj4he

Wired for Sound: Honolulu blue takes over Arizona:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-fyyomlqy19xfzne6

Woody Wonders with Lions center Cade Mays:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-97ckexd1airemnc5

Sunday Sitdown: Cornerback Roger McCreary on defensive communication:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-m89aa8e3wrfyg4vt

Coach's scouting report: Dan Campbell previews Week 7 against Packers:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-hg2gudg56v3phx67

Detroit Lions Week 7 Preview Against Green Bay Packers:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/detroit-lions-week-7-preview-144512016.html
Posted by LionsFan at 3:19 PM 0 comments

Saturday, October 24, 2026

Lions Links for Saturday 10-24-26

Articles:

'Going back to our DNA' | Lions' secondary looks to build on Week 5 performance following bye:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/going-back-to-our-dna-lions-secondary-looks-to-build-on-week-5-performance-following-bye-mccreary-abney

Why Waiting on Sam LaPorta Deal Could Be Disaster For Detroit Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/why-waiting-sam-laporta-deal-could-be-disaster-for-detroit-lions

'Everybody's Ass Was Tight': Detroit Lions' Defense Loosened Up:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/how-lions-defense-loosened-up-before-cardinals-game

Behind Enemy Lines: Can Lions Slow Down Packers Passing Attack?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/behind-enemy-lines-can-lions-slow-down-packers-passing-attack





Juice Scruggs is too good to sit, and the Lions already have a pretty obvious way to keep him on the field:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/juice-scruggs-is-too-good-to-sit-and-the-lions-already-have-a-pretty-obvious-way-to-keep-him-on-the-field/


Brad Holmes Hates Losing High Picks, and That Should Push the Lions to Pay Sam LaPorta Soon:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/sam-laporta-lions-contract-brad-holmes-brock-bowers



9 NFL Second-Round Rookies Already Falling Short of the Early-Season Hype (Derrick Moore, EDGE, Detroit Lions:  The Detroit Lions drafted Derrick Moore to hopefully become Aidan Hutchinson's running mate. It's been a fairly slow start for the former Michigan standout, who had an injury throughout the predraft process. Moore has two tackles and is still searching for his first career sack. Pro Football Focus has credited him with four pressures. A bigger impact should eventually arrive.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/9-nfl-second-round-rookies-already-falling-short-of-the-early-season-hype


Packers Media:


Ultimate Mismatch Is Among Three Reasons Why Packers Will Beat Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/ultimate-mismatch-is-among-three-reasons-why-packers-will-beat-lions

Packers Make Big Roster Move, And It’s Not Just Activating Josh Jacobs:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/packers-make-big-roster-move-and-it-s-not-just-activating-josh-jacobs

Packers vs. Lions Score Prediction for NFL Week 7 (Can Detroit Win Crucial NFC North Showdown?):  https://www.si.com/betting/packers-vs-lions-score-prediction-for-nfl-week-7-can-detroit-win-crucial-nfc-north-showdown-2026

Ten Most Important Packers for Pivotal Game Against Lions Features Backup:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/ten-most-important-packers-for-pivotal-game-against-lions-features

 Video - Packers QB Jordan Love on Detroit Lions' Defense:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/packers-qb-jordan-love-detroit-122444274.html

Video - Packers QB Jordan Love on Showdown at Lions:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/packers-qb-jordan-love-showdown-122317591.html


Video - How much do Detroit Lions really value Sam LaPorta?:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/much-detroit-lions-really-value-200606665.html

Video:


TJ Lang On The Current Contract Situation With Sam LaPorta | The Valenti Show with Rico:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/tj-lang-on-the-current-contract-situation-with-sam-laporta-the-valenti-show-with-rico-xbqtbju

What Are You Expecting From Brian Branch Is His First Game Back? | Karsch and Anderson:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/what-are-you-expecting-from-brian-branch-is-his-first-game-back-karsch-and-anderson-xbqsm8y




Could the Lions defeat the Packers on Sunday?:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-fgk8k36anqdl7n4h
Posted by LionsFan at 8:08 PM 0 comments

Friday, October 23, 2026

Week 7 Predictions

SN Iyer (NFC Game of the Week: Packers at Lions (-3.5, 52.5 o/u) - The Packers love throwing the ball. The Lions are the worst pass defense in the league, but they also have a productive pass rush with Aidan Hutchinson. On the flip, the Packers can give it up on the ground and Detroit figures to feed Jahmyr Gibbs often coming off a bye. The Lions win by protecting Jared Goff and the ball better than Green Bay does around Jordan Love.  Pick: Lions win 31-27 and cover the spread):   https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-picks-predictions-against-spread-week-7/003795dd75b1f2ecea8ee279

SN Bender (LIONS (-3.5) over Packers - NFC North rivals have issues that collide. Green Bay continues to struggle to run the football, but Jordan Love could torch the league's worst pass defense with receivers Christian Watson and Matthew Golden. Jahmyr Gibbs presents a challenge for the Packers' run defense, which has been suspect. Expect Detroit to heat up the pass rush, too. This feels like a potential shootout.  Pick: Lions 34, Packers 28 ):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-picks-predictions-week-7-rams-raiders-chiefs-seahawks/1ba0158cfcb2fd8b2cc4eacb

CBS Prisco (Green Bay Packers (+3) at Detroit Lions - The Lions are coming off a bye, which they needed, while the Packers are coming off consecutive victories. They are playing much better on both sides of the ball. The two defenses will be challenged here, but the Lions will be the better offense at home coming off the bye. Lions win it by a tiny margin as both quarterbacks light it up. Pick: Lions 34, Packers 33):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/priscos-week-7-nfl-picks-odds-expert-picks-upsets/

AP Pro (GREEN BAY (4-2) at DETROIT (3-2) - Line: Lions minus 3.  The Packers have won three in a row, the defense has been out and Josh Jacobs is coming back to boost the offense with Micah Parsons working toward his return. The Lions have the league’s worst defense that’s sometimes offset by a prolific offense. This one should be a shootout.  LIONS: 30-26):  https://apnews.com/article/nfl-picks-week-7-2026-8dbe9bb8a30f53253075bb94fd45a7ce

CBS Dajani and Dubin (Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions (-3) - Dajani (Lions -3): Just take the Over in this matchup. The Lions really burned me coming off the bye last year, losing to J.J. McCarthy, but I'm going to back them in this spot. The concern is, of course, the defense, which ranks dead last in the NFL with 404.4 total yards surrendered per game. HOWEVER, I will mention that Kelvin Sheppard's unit forced five straight three-and-outs from the Cardinals in that 45-21 win in Week 5. Plus, Brian Branch is set to return to the lineup as well. Give me the Lions at home. … Prediction: Lions 35, Packers 30.  Dubin (Lions -3): This one has all the makings of a shootout, with two explosive offenses going back and forth. Jared Goff and Co. are coming off the bye, and they have scored 31 or more points in four of their five games to date — and they scored 26 while piling up 452 yards in the other one. Nobody except maybe Kenneth Walker III is doing it at a higher level than Jahmyr Gibbs right now, either. Meanwhile, Green Bay can throw the ball all over the yard, and everyone throws it on the Lions. Maybe Green Bay can actually run with some efficiency in Josh Jacobs' potential return, but it's not like he was all that efficient last season, either. I lean toward the Lions because they can beat you both ways. … Prediction: Lions 34, Packers 28):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-7-picks-experts-patriots-bears-cowboys-eagles/

Football Meteorology For NFL Week 7 (Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions (-3): Huge game in the NFC North. Detroit comes off a bye and welcomes Brian Branch and Cade Mays to the field, adding two starters in impactful positions. Green Bay won both meetings last season by dominating Detroit in the trenches. But in 2026, the Lions’ lines have been the unquestioned strength of the team, and the Packers have been hit hard by injuries. As long as Jared Goff keeps on protecting the ball and spreading it around, the Lions match up quite well with Green Bay. Could be a huge game for Jahmyr Gibbs against a Packers D that had zero answers for Bijan Robinson a couple of weeks ago--and that was with a healthier Green Bay defense. Lions 37, Packers 27):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3727/Football-Meteorology-For-NFL-Week-7

NFL Week 7 picks: Upset and score predictions, matchup breakdowns for every game (All 5 pick the Lions to win by scores of 31-27, 30-26, 31-26, 31-30, 30-28):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-picks-week-7-2026-nfl-season

CBS Sullivan (Packers at Lions - Projected score: Lions 33, Packers 26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-7-picks-against-the-spread-vikings-bengals-jets/

TheBigLead NFL Week 7 picks & predictions: Seahawks end Chiefs’ undefeated start (Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions, 4:25 p.m., Fox:  The Packers are coming in hot after beating down the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6. However, the Lions host this NFC North affair after a bye week, and their offense looks like one of the best in the NFL. Pick: Lions 34, Packers 31):  https://www.thebiglead.com/nfl-week-7-picks-predictions-seahawks-end-chiefs-undefeated-start/

PFT’s Week 7 2026 NFL picks (Packers at Lions - The Detroit defense needs to make a stop, at some point, to win this one.  Lions 28, Packers 27.):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/pfts-week-7-2026-nfl-picks

Packers vs. Lions Score Prediction for NFL Week 7 (Can Detroit Win Crucial NFC North Showdown?) (Final Score Prediction: Lions 30, Packers 27):  https://www.si.com/betting/packers-vs-lions-score-prediction-for-nfl-week-7-can-detroit-win-crucial-nfc-north-showdown-2026

Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers betting odds, best bet, prediction (Prediction: Lions 27, Packers 24): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2026/10/25/detroit-lions-vs-green-bay-packers-betting-odds-best-bet-prediction/92427488007/

Packers-Lions Prediction: Will Green Bay Beat Odds So It Can Beat Rivals? (Both pick the Lions to win by scores of 31-27, 34-31):  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/packers-lions-prediction-will-green-bay-beat-odds-so-it-can-beat-rivals

USA Today (3 pick the Lions to win by scores of 34-30, 34-28, 28-27.  1 picks the Packers to win 30-24):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl-picks/2026/10/22/nfl-week-7-picks-spread-predictions-locks-chiefs-seahawks-bears-patriots-paris/92363566007/

Detroit News (3 pick the Lions to win by scores of 34-31, 31-28, 30-24.  1 picks the Packers to win 34-28):  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2026/10/24/predictions-lions-vs-green-bay-packers/92342858007/

SI (3 pick the Lions to win by scores of 31-24, 31-24, 31-27.  1 picks the Packers to win 31-28):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/expert-predictions-for-detroit-lions-matchup-with-green-bay-packers

Our guide to every NFL Week 7 game: Matchup previews, predictions, picks and nuggets (Maldonado's pick: Lions 27, Packers 26.  Moody's pick: Lions 30, Packers 24.  Walder's pick: Packers 34, Lions 27):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50229521/week-7-picks-predictions-schedule-fantasy-odds-2026

Video - Lions vs. Packers | Week 7 preview (5 pick the Lions to win by scores of 30-26, 31-30, 29-27, 30-28, 28-24.  5 Pick the Packers to win by scores of 33-30, 34-28, 33-31, 28-22, 27-24):  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/lions-vs-packers-week-7-preview

Packers vs Lions picks, predictions, odds for NFL Week 7 game Sunday (1 picks the Lions to win 27-25.  1 picks the Packers to win 31-27):  https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/19/green-bay-packers-detroit-lions-picks-predictions-odds-nfl-week-7/90427149007/

Packers vs. Lions predictions: Detroit's biggest weakness could decide Week 7 (Kauffman and Brinkerhoff (1 Picks the Lions to win 31-27.  1 Picks the Packers to win 34-30):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/21/packers-vs-lions-prediction-odds-picks-week-7/92357677007/

Packers vs. Lions preview and predictions: Can GB get big division win? (1 picks the Lions to win 31-28.  1 picks the Packers to win 30-27):  https://packerswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2026/10/25/packers-vs-lions-preview-and-predictions-can-gb-get-big-division-win/92399199007/

Freep (3 pick the Lions to win by scores of 28-24, 27-24, 29-27.  3 pick the Packers to win by scores of 31-27, 31-27, 35-31):  https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/detroit-lions-vs-packers-predictions-090511001.html

Lions-Packers Week 7 score predictions from MLive’s beat writers (2 pick the Packers to win by scores of 35-27 and 35-31.  1 picks the Lions to win 24-23):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2026/10/lions-packers-week-7-score-predictions-from-mlives-beat-writers.html

AtoZ Sports Packers at Lions Final Score Predictions: Experts pick who wins a monster NFC North matchup (3 pick the Packers to win by scores of 27-24, 27-24, 38-21.  1 picks the Lions to win 35-31):  https://atozsports.com/nfl/green-bay-packers-news/packers-at-lions-final-score-predictions/

Packers Wire (3 pick the Packers to win by scores of 30-27, 28-23, 27-24.  1 picks the Lions to win 31-28):  https://packerswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2026/10/23/packers-wire-staff-predictions-week-7-vs-lions/92406301007/

NFL Week 7 expert picks, score predictions: Packers at Lions (10 pick the Lions to win by scores of 31-27, 31-27 30-28, 34-31, 38-35, 31-24, 34-28, 27-24, 31-24, 27-20.  3 pick the Packers to win by scores of 31-27, 30-27, 35-31):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-analysis/177445/detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-nfl-week-7-expert-picks-score-predictions

CBS Breech (Packers (4-2) at Lions (3-2) - The last time these two teams faced each other was on Thanksgiving 2025, which is almost fitting, because the Packers definitely have something to be thankful for this week: the return of Josh Jacobs. After spending the first six weeks of the season on the commissioner's exempt list, Jacobs is finally expected to return this week, and I will not be surprised if Matt LaFleur throws a small party to celebrate.   With Jacobs out of the lineup, the Packers have had the worst rushing attack in the NFL this year and that might actually be an understatement.   Through the first six weeks, they averaged just 59.8 yards per game on the ground, which not only ranks dead last in the NFL but is 17 yards BEHIND the next-closest team.   Not a single running back on the roster has topped 50 rushing yards in a game this season. In the 106-YEAR HISTORY of the NFL, there have only been three teams that have had a winning record through six games without any player topping 50 rushing yards in a single game, and the 2026 Packers are one of them. The last time it happened before this year was 1941. That's right, the Packers' rushing offense has somehow managed to set football back 85 years.  The Packers have been winning in spite of their rushing attack and it's all thanks to a defense that's somehow surviving without Micah Parsons and a passing attack that suddenly looks unstoppable thanks to the emergence of Matthew Golden. At some point over the past month, something clicked with Golden, because he's been one of the best receivers in the NFL over the past four weeks. He's topped 100 receiving yards in three of his past four games, which is pretty wild when you consider that he didn't top 90 yards A SINGLE TIME as a rookie last season. With Golden and Christian Watson, the Packers now have a legit duo and they have it just in time to face a Lions defense that has given up more passing yards this year than any other team. Bryce Young threw for 329 yards against this defense. GENO SMITH threw for 321. Jordan Love might throw for 400. The Packers are finally getting Jacobs back, but the irony is that this is the one week where they might not actually need him.  PICK: Packers (+3) 31-24 over Lions):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-7-picks-score-predictions-odds-chiefs-seahawks/

Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions odds, picks and predictions (Prediction - Packers 31, Lions 27):  https://sportsbookwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/24/packers-at-lions-odds-picks-and-predictions/92397198007/

Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions NFL Prediction, Picks & Odds for Week 7 (Packers 35 – Lions 23):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/green-bay-packers-at-detroit-lions-nfl-prediction-picks-odds-week7-2026

Non-Score Predictions:




ESPN (6 pick the Lions to win.  5 pick the Packers to win):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/picks

SI (6 pick the Packers to win.  2 pick the Lions to win):  https://www.si.com/nfl/week-7-picks-mmqb-staff-expert-predictions

74 Pick the Lions to win.  45 Pick the Packers to win.  Average Predicted Score (2320-2251/82):  Lions 28 Packers 27.
Posted by LionsFan at 10:38 PM 0 comments

Lions Links for Friday 10-23-26

Articles:


NOTEBOOK: St. Brown holds himself to high standard:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-st-brown-holds-himself-to-high-standard-branch-petzing

Twentyman's Mailbag: How will Lions game plan for Green Bay's big-play offense?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/mailbag-how-will-detroit-lions-game-plan-green-bay-s-offense-hutchinson-branch-mays


Detroit Lions Had Former Vikings Nose Tackle Visit For Tryout:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-had-former-vikings-nose-tackle-visit-for-tryout

Detroit Lions 2026 Week 7 Friday Injury Report: Two Questionable:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-2026-week-seven-friday-injury-report-two-questionable


Lions Are Facing Packers Team That Will Not Have Key Linebacker:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-are-facing-packers-team-that-will-not-have-key-linebacker

Dan Campbell Loses His Cool Talking About Sam LaPorta:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/dan-campbell-loses-his-cool-talking-about-sam-laporta

Spot the Ball: 10 Thoughts Ahead of Lions Matchup With Packers:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/ten-thoughts-ahead-of-lions-matchup-with-packers-week-seven

Lions OC Drew Petzing on 'Megamind' Nickname: I Do Have a Big Forehead:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-drew-petzing-reacts-megamind-nickname

Grading Trade Proposal With Chargers That Upgrades Lions' Defense:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/grading-trade-proposal-with-chargers-that-upgrades-lions-defense




NFL predictions: 5 keys to a Lions victory over the Packers in Week 7:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-analysis/177804/lions-vs-packers-predictions-week-7-picks




Sam LaPorta finally explained what he meant by his Lions contract comments, and it makes a lot more sense now:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/sam-laporta-finally-explained-what-he-meant-by-his-lions-contract-comments-and-it-makes-a-lot-more-sense-now/

Lions projected depth chart: Brian Branch is back, Cade Mays takes over at center, and one young defender deserves a bigger role:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-projected-depth-chart-brian-branch-is-back-cade-mays-takes-over-at-center-and-one-young-defender-deserves-a-bigger-role/

Dan Campbell’s response to Sam LaPorta’s contract comments should calm Lions fans down a little:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/dan-campbells-response-to-sam-laportas-contract-comments-should-calm-lions-fans-down-a-little/

Lions Prediction Lab: Detroit has a clear way to beat the Packers, but Green Bay has the perfect counterpunch:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-prediction-lab-detroit-has-a-clear-way-to-beat-the-packers-but-green-bay-has-the-perfect-counterpunch/

The thing that could be holding up Sam LaPorta’s Lions extension — and what the fix could look like:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-thing-that-could-be-holding-up-sam-laportas-lions-extension-and-what-the-fix-could-look-like/


Jared Goff Says Packers Games Count for Two After Detroit Went 2-4 in the Division:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/jared-goff-lions-packers-counts-for-two

After "misconception," Sam LaPorta clears the air: "I want to play for this team":  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/sam-laporta-lions-2678129063

Jack Campbell relates to Sam LaPorta: "There's some truth in both sides":  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/sam-laporta-lions-2678129063

Lions' Campbell on LaPorta's contract comments: 'We're all good':  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50258967/lions-dan-campbell-downplays-sam-laporta-contract-comments

The 10 best NFL player matchups to watch in Week 7 (Green Bay Packers EDGE Lukas Van Ness vs. Detroit Lions T Penei Sewell - Packers-Lions profiles as a monumental showdown in a tightly contested NFC North. Detroit’s elite offense battles an upstart Green Bay defense, where Van Ness and Sewell will throw down for the better part of 60 minutes.  Van Ness has finally delivered his long-awaited breakout in 2026. The former first-round pick has produced a 79.6 PFF pass-rushing grade and 18.6% pass-rush win rate, both of which stand as top-10 marks among qualified edge defenders.  While Sewell had a bit of an adjustment to left tackle, he’s settled in over recent games. Sewell is the league’s highest-graded tackle at a 90.9 mark, and he’s yielded just two pressures over his last three contests compared to five in the first two.  Sewell and Van Ness haven’t seen much of each other over the past three seasons, locking horns just 14 times total. Over eight pass-rushing matchups, the Lions All-Pro has pitched a clean sheet. The Packers will likely need more production from Van Ness if they want to earn a road victory.  Detroit Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown vs. Green Bay Packers CB Javon Bullard - Another Lions offense vs. Packers defense matchup, but this one focuses on the slot.  St. Brown hasn’t been quite as prodigious to start the 2026 campaign, earning a 73.9 PFF receiving grade and averaging 1.92 yards per route run. Both of those figures would be his lowest since his rookie campaign in 2021.  Meanwhile, Bullard’s breakout has helped catapult the Packers’ defense. His 79.8 overall PFF grade is the seventh-best among qualified cornerbacks, including an 80.2-plus grade in both coverage and run defense. In slot coverage specifically, Bullard has allowed just 0.61 yards per snap.  St. Brown has gotten the better of the youngster to start his career, catching three receptions for 22 yards and three first downs against Bullard. The two will face off once more with Bullard having taken things to another level.):  https://www.pff.com/news/the-10-best-nfl-player-matchups-to-watch-in-week-7-2


Dan Campbell gets agitated with Lions reporter, walks off after repeated Sam LaPorta questions:  https://www.thebiglead.com/dan-campbell-agitated-lions-reporter-walks-off-sam-laporta-questions/


Packers Media:







It’s One Game, But Check Out Impact Packers-Lions Will Make on Playoff Race:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/it-s-one-game-but-check-out-impact-packers-lions-will-make-on-playoff-race

Wait Continues as Packers G Kevin Zeitler Gets Ready to Face Former Team:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/wait-continues-as-packers-g-kevin-zeitler-gets-ready-to-face-former-team

Video:



Thursday Touchdown | If The Lions Lose The Next 2 Should LaPorta Be Traded? | Costa and Jansen:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/thursday-touchdown-if-the-lions-lose-the-next-2-should-laporta-be-traded-costa-and-jansen-xbqhqr6




Sam LaPorta | Are You Upset With His Comments Or The Lions? | Costa and Jansen:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/video/sam-laporta-are-you-upset-with-his-comments-or-the-lions-costa-and-jansen-xbqgfqi

Sam LaPorta Is Becoming Distraction Frustrating Dan Campbell:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/sam-laporta-becoming-distraction-frustrating-173604482.html

Detroit Lions vs Packers Preview: How Detroit Can Win Sunday:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/detroit-lions-vs-packers-preview-170134272.html


Previewing Lions vs Packers, plus College Football:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/fmc-1uicpxpjko328xsy


Posted by LionsFan at 10:38 PM 0 comments

Thursday, October 22, 2026

Lions Links for Thursday 10-22-26

Articles:




Week 7 opponent: What the Packers are saying:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/week-7-opponent-what-the-packers-are-saying-jacobs-parsons-gibbs



Lions Sign Returner to 53-Man Roster, Add Safety to Practice Squad:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-sign-returner-to-53-man-roster-add-bryant-to-practice-squad

Detroit Lions Make New Punt Returner Decision Crystal Clear:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-make-new-punt-returner-decision-crystal-clear

Lions Week 7 Game Officiated by One of NFL's Most Flag-Happy Crews:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/lions-week-seven-game-officiated-one-of-nfl-most-flag-happy-crews

Detroit Lions TE Sam LaPorta Is Biggest Loser In Tone-Deaf Interview:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-sam-laporta-biggest-loser-in-tone-deaf-interview







The Lions just signed a veteran defensive back we thought could help in the secondary and who can also help replace Tom Kennedy:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-just-signed-a-veteran-defensive-back-we-thought-could-help-in-the-secondary-and-who-can-also-help-replace-tom-kennedy/

Lions fans probably aren’t going to get the cornerback trade they want, and the reason is pretty simple:  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-fans-probably-arent-going-to-get-the-cornerback-trade-they-want-and-the-reason-is-pretty-simple/

Detroit Lions Now Have a Contract Distraction They Didn’t Need:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/detroit-lions-contract-distraction-sam-laporta-free-agency

Lions Coach Shares Decision on Amon-Ra St. Brown After Unfortunate News:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/trending/lions-deandre-carter-returner-amon-ra-st-brown-tom-kennedy

Detroit's Last-Ranked Defense Makes a Khalil Mack and Donte Jackson Deal Worth Chasing:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-khalil-mack-donte-jackson-trade-chargers

Lions Stock Report After 5 Games: Jared Goff, 2 Defenders Among Those Surging:  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/lions-stock-report-after-5-games-jared-goff-2-defenders-among-those-surging

Lions' new return man DeAndre Carter is NFL's active leader in returns:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/deandre-carter-lions

Rising Ennis Rakestraw eager "to play a Cheesehead for real":  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/ennis-rakestraw-lions-2678125202


Barnwell pitches 11 pre-deadline NFL trades: Which teams should deal for Barkley, BTJ and Mack? (Lions attack their defensive flaws - Lions get: Edge Khalil Mack, CB Donte Jackson.  Chargers get: 2027 fourth- and sixth-round picks.  One of the few teams that is very obviously out of the playoff picture, the 0-6 Chargers are staring down a lost season. They're not about to tear down the roster given that Justin Herbert is still only 28 years old, but GM Joe Hortiz also finds himself in a position to move on from veterans who aren't likely to be on the roster in 2028 and beyond.  Jackson fits that bill. The well-traveled cornerback played at a Pro Bowl level last season after going to the Chargers from the Steelers, making him one of many defensive backs to produce career years after joining up with Jesse Minter (who might very well be interested in adding him to play on the outside in Baltimore). This year, though, Jackson has been limited to 113 snaps by hamstring issues.  Mack, who was considering retirement before returning to the Chargers on a one-year deal, would also be an obvious trade candidate. At 35 years old, he is still a valuable edge defender for the Chargers. He has three sacks and six quarterback knockdowns through six games, and Mack's 5.0% quick pressure rate is still well above the league average of 3.9%. Mack has always been solid against the run, and he can step into any defense and be a viable, above-average edge rusher for the remainder of the season if he can stay healthy.  Both players are free agents after the season, and there's a decent amount of money involved here. Jackson is owed $4 million over the remainder of the season, while Mack is due $5.3 million. NFL teams don't necessarily need to cut payroll in a lost season, but the Chargers wouldn't mind adding draft capital for two players who might not be back next seasons, especially if they can save millions of dollars in the process. They could alternately want to eat some of that money to add more draft capital in a potential trade and think the picks are a better use of the cash than players who would be playing out the string for a hopeless team.  Guess who could use an edge rusher and a cornerback? The Lions. DJ Wonnum has a team-high five sacks as he takes advantage of defenses double-teaming Aidan Hutchinson, but Detroit could certainly use another edge rusher to take some of the workload off its two starters and provide some help if Hutchinson or Wonnum go down. And the Lions are incredibly desperate for cornerback help, given that they're relying on the likes of Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Rock Ya-Sin and Roger McCreary for meaningful snaps this season. Jackson would be a cut above those players and a viable second option alongside D.J. Reed, who has also struggled so far this season.  In this deal, the Chargers eat about half of the money owed to Jackson and Mack over the remainder of the season, making the midseason cash expenditure more palatable for the Lions. The Lions have the league's second-best offense in terms of points scored per drive, but the defense needs help. And here Detroit adds two experienced starters on that side of the ball, giving the team a better shot at competing in what's going to be a dogfight in the NFC North.):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50238049/trade-deadline-2026-barnwell-offers-pitches-barkley-thomas

2026 NFL trade deadline: 10 needs for 10 contenders (Detroit Lions - NEED: Man-coverage ace.  Giving up nearly 300 yards per game through the air -- a league worst 297.4, to be exact -- Detroit’s pass defense has hit bottom. Brian Branch’s impending return should provide a significant boost at safety, but cornerback remains a problem. D.J. Reed has yet to validate the three-year, $48 million contract he signed in the 2025 offseason, while 2024 first-round pick Terrion Arnold was released over the summer due to serious legal issues. With an underwhelming collection of corners, Kelvin Sheppard has mostly dialed back Detroit’s usage of man coverage, though the embattled defensive coordinator did just deploy it at a season-high clip of 51.9% percent of the snaps last time out. Clearly, Dan Campbell’s Lions favor aggressiveness, but if they want to play their coverage of choice, they must aggressively pursue a proven asset on the island.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2026-nfl-trade-deadline-10-needs-for-10-contenders

Most important Week 7 games for playoff races: Ravens-Bengals crucial (2. Packers at Lions - Another key division matchup sees the 3-2 Lions, coming off a bye, host the 4-2 Packers in a big opportunity for both. After a rocky start to the season, Green Bay has won three straight. Detroit, meanwhile, has alternated wins and losses all season. The Packers are 1-1 in division play; this is the Lions' first division game. SportsLine's projections like Detroit a lot, in part thanks to an easy schedule: The Lions still get to play the Dolphins, Buccaneers, Falcons and Titans this season.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/5-most-important-games-playoff-races-week-7/

It wouldn't shock me if ... for NFL Week 7: Bo Nix gets benched (Packers-Lions flirt with 70 total points scored - I think points could come in bunches during this NFC North matchup between the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions to the point where we're flirting with a total of 70 points scored. This would mark just the fourth time this season that two clubs have combined for at least 70 points, and one of those other games already involved the Lions (Week 2 vs. Bills, 72 points scored).   The Lions play at a tremendous pace, running 66.4 plays per game (seventh-highest in the NFL). Not only do they run a lot of plays, but they score a ton, as their 32.8 points per game average ranks second in the league. While Green Bay has a strong pass defense, there's simply too much firepower on the Lions offense to expect them to contain them wire-to-wire, especially as they'll come into this game well-rested after having the Week 6 bye. Moreover, the Lions defense has been Swiss cheese. Yes, they'll be getting star safety Brian Branch back, but this is a unit that has the worst total defense (404.4 yards) and third-worst third-down rate (29.6%) in the NFL entering Week 7. That might improve slightly with Branch, but it's still a weakness that Jordan Love will be able to exploit with Christian Watson and Matthew Golden.   On throws with at least 20 air yards this season, the Lions are allowing an opposing passer rating of 116.2 (fifth-worst in the NFL) and four passing touchdowns (tied for league-high). Over the past two games, Love is second in the NFL in passer rating (135.4) on such throws, so it could be bombs away throughout the afternoon at Ford Field.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/it-wouldnt-shock-me-if-nfl-week-7-bold-predictions-bo-nix/

One Move Every NFL Team Should Make At the 2026 Trade Deadline (Detroit Lions: Add to the secondary
Lions, trade deadline, NFL.  Though Brian Branch is slated to return soon, the Lions’ secondary is still thin and in need of more help. The Lions are 3–2, but it will be hard for them to contend without improving their defense. They lead the league in passing yards allowed (297.4 per game) and rank tied for 28th in EPA per pass allowed (0.20). The Lions should consider adding the corner group, whether that’s calling about Kristian Fulton, Tariq Woolen or another corner they’re interested in. —EG):  https://www.si.com/nfl/trade-deadline/one-move-every-nfl-team-should-make

The Biggest Question for Every NFL Game In Week 7 (Packers (4–2) at Lions (3–2): Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET - Can the Lions stop Jordan Love and the Packers’ passing attack? 
The Lions’ secondary has become a regular subject in this weekly questionnaire, and it rears its head again as Detroit prepares to take on one of the hottest quarterbacks in the NFL: Jordan Love. Love heads into Ford Field fresh off dicing up the Bears’ and Cowboys’ defenses. Now, he’ll face another weaker secondary in the Lions, which allows the most passing yards per game (297.4). In contrast, Love is third in the NFL in passing yards and second in passing yards on throws of 20 or more yards downfield (402). So long as Christian Watson and Matthew Golden don’t drop too many passes again, Love could have a field day against the Lions.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/biggest-question-every-game-week-7

NFL Week 7 Schedule 2026: Ranking Every Game From Worst to Best (5. Packers (4–2) at Lions (3–2):  The Packers are rolling after a slow start to the 2026 season, and their three-game win streak can be attributed to their suddenly stout defense. Since their disappointing 35–14 loss to the Falcons in Week 3, Green Bay has allowed just 14.6 points per game while logging eight interceptions, recovering two fumbles and sacking opposing quarterbacks eight times. Arguably their toughest matchup yet will come this Sunday afternoon, when they head to Detroit to take on the division-rival Lions, whose offense has been nothing short of spectacular this season. Through six weeks, the Lions are tied for the league lead in points per game (23.8) and fourth in total yards per game (393.8). Meanwhile, quarterback Jared Goff is playing some of the most efficient football of his career, posting a 111.3 passer rating and 13 total touchdowns without committing a turnover.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/nfl-week-7-schedule-2026-ranking-every-game-worst-to-best

13 NFL coordinators under most pressure to turn things around (Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard:  There's nowhere to hide for a Detroit defense that, even after a promising performance against the Cardinals, ranks last in yards allowed per game (404.4, nearly 20 more than the next closest team) and defensive EPA/play (+0.13). A good portion of the Lions' woes can be attributed to personnel shortcomings, particularly in a woefully undermanned secondary. Still, even though Sheppard said it was insulting to suggest his unit was being carried by the offense, how else would you explain the Lions' results this season besides pointing to the disparity between the two groups?  Lions coach Dan Campbell has tried to take the focus away from the defense, saying that all parts of the operation can stand to improve. Even if he ends up being given a good deal more grace than others on this list, Sheppard has to start conjuring solutions for a team at risk of squandering a fifth consecutive season with a top-five offense in both yardage and scoring. Bracketing Cardinals tight end Trey McBride and wide receiver Michael Wilson to keep both in check was a good first step. Still, ultra-versatile safety Brian Branch's season debut comes at a critical time, with Detroit challenged to slow down the Green Bay Packers' explosive downfield passing attack.):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/10/22/nfl-coordinators-under-pressure-christian-parker-mike-mcdaniel/92347908007/

Maxx Crosby trade could still happen for the Lions, NFL analyst says:  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/detroit-lions/news/maxx-crosby-trade-could-lions/6bb84b460bed41f930f77294

‘That’s Where He’s Bitter’ — Ex-NFL QB Points Out Packers’ $75M Move That May Have Led to Sam LaPorta’s Complaint With Lions:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/ex-nfl-qb-sam-laporta-complaint-lions/



Lions kick off quest to win NFC North with 1st division game of year against surging Packers at home:  https://apnews.com/article/lions-packers-preview-c7c3cf658d284de8e39c97b222ecd5ad

Packers Media:

Packers-Lions Thursday Injury Report: Three Huge Updates for Green Bay:  https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/onsi/packers-lions-thursday-injury-report-three-huge-updates-for-green-bay




The Lions’ heavy offense will stretch the Packers’ thin defensive line:  https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lions-heavy-offense-stretch-packers-001018864.html

QB Ranking:

NFL quarterback power rankings heading into Week 7 (3. Jared Goff - He threw three touchdown passes and his team scored 45 points and won by 24.):  https://www.thebiglead.com/nfl-quarterback-power-rankings-heading-into-week-7/

Video:











Lions Defensive Line Carrying Defense Early in 2026 NFL Season:  https://sports.yahoo.com/videos/lions-defensive-line-carrying-defense-191336100.html

FOX 2 Detroit - LIVE | Previewing Lions vs Packers, plus College Football:  https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=cUF0G09ZcmM
Posted by LionsFan at 8:53 PM 0 comments
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