Assessing the Damage After Thanksgiving Victory Over the Bears
The Detroit Lions managed to secure a hard-fought Thanksgiving win over the Chicago Bears, but the triumph came at a cost. A spate of injuries plagued the Lions’ defense during the game, leaving key players sidelined and raising questions about the team’s depth as the season progresses.
Josh Paschal and Levi Onwuzurike: A Glimmer of Optimism
Defensive end Josh Paschal was the first to leave the game after sustaining a right knee injury while chasing down Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. Paschal initially returned to the sideline with a taped knee, but his day was cut short as he was ruled out by halftime.
Levi Onwuzurike, the Lions’ defensive tackle, also exited the game after suffering a hamstring injury late in the first half. Like Paschal, Onwuzurike was unable to return.
Head coach Dan Campbell provided updates on both players after the game, expressing cautious optimism.
“I feel like it’ll be okay. It could be a little bit. They could be down for a little bit,” Campbell said.
While their statuses remain uncertain, Campbell’s comments suggest their injuries may not be long-term setbacks.
Malcolm Rodriguez: A Greater Concern
Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez’s injury, however, looms as a more significant issue. Rodriguez suffered a right knee injury in the second half and did not return. With the Lions already thin at linebacker, his potential absence could leave a gaping hole in their defensive scheme.
Campbell expressed a more somber tone when addressing Rodriguez’s condition.
> “I’ll be honest with you, I think Rodrigo’s the one that could be the worst,” Campbell said. “I don’t know how significant it’ll be just yet, but he’s the one I fear a little bit.”
The Lions have been leaning heavily on rotational players like Trevor Nowaske, Ben Niemann, and Ezekiel Turner to fill gaps in the linebacker corps. With Derrick Barnes, Alex Anzalone, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin already on injured reserve, Rodriguez’s potential absence further strains an already depleted unit.
Emmanuel Moseley: A Pre-Game Surprise
Cornerback Emmanuel Moseley, who made his season debut in Week 12, was a surprising late scratch against the Bears. Campbell explained the decision as precautionary after Moseley experienced a setback during pre-game warmups.
“Moseley, pre-game, had something pop up, and we just didn’t feel good about him going full speed,” Campbell said. “Obviously, we got out of this game without him getting any worse, so that’s a positive.”
The Lions are taking a measured approach with Moseley as they aim to protect his long-term health.
Next Steps for the Lions
The Lions’ defensive injuries underscore the importance of their depth and adaptability. Players like David Long, recently signed to bolster the linebacker unit, and cornerback Terrion Arnold, who is returning from a groin injury, will need to step up in the coming weeks.
As the Lions push toward a playoff berth, their ability to navigate these injuries and maintain defensive consistency will be critical. For now, all eyes are on the injury reports as fans and the team await further updates on Paschal, Onwuzurike, Rodriguez, and Moseley.
