The top-seeded Detroit Lions will host the sixth-seeded Washington Commanders at Ford Field on Saturday night for the Divisional Round. With a victory, Detroit would reach its second consecutive NFC Championship Game. Favored by 9.5 points with a 55.5-point over/under, Vegas sees the Lions as strong contenders to advance.
Lions’ Pro Bowl offensive lineman injured late in Week 18
Kevin Zeitler suffered a right hamstring injury late in the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18. Zeitler limped off the field and missed the last five plays of the game. With hamstring injuries often lingering, there was concern he might not recover in time for the Divisional Round, despite the Lions benefiting from a BYE week.
A concerning injury update for Zeitler
Kevin Zeitler (hamstring) did not participate in practice on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, casting doubt on his availability. The Lions released their injury report and ruled out two players, including Zeitler. His absence is a significant blow to the offense, especially against Washington’s strong interior defensive line featuring Pro Bowlers Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen.
Who will step in at right guard?
Head coach Dan Campbell announced on Thursday that rookie sixth-round pick Christian Mahogany will start at right guard against the Commanders. Mahogany began the season on the NFI list due to mononucleosis but has since appeared in seven games, including a Week 16 start at left guard for Graham Glasgow against the Bears.
This game is an opportunity for Mahogany to prove himself as a potential long-term starter. Can he handle Washington’s imposing defensive front?
