The Detroit Lions have faced significant challenges with their pass rush lately. Marcus Davenport was injured during the team’s Week 3 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, and Aidan Hutchinson was lost during their commanding victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Ahead of their Week 8 clash with the Tennessee Titans, they will also be without Josh Paschal.
Fortunately, Paschal’s absence is due to an undisclosed injury rather than a physical ailment. His absence is a major setback for a Lions squad already struggling with depth in their pass rush. Paschal expressed his disappointment about missing the game, especially as the team has been gaining momentum.
“It’s definitely tough because we’ve been playing well and I want to keep the momentum going. But life throws you curveballs, and I’m grateful to rely on my faith. I know there will be challenges, but it’s all about how you respond. I want to stay focused, keep working hard,” Paschal said, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Paschal’s illness further depletes an already thin group of edge rushers for the Lions. On Sunday, Detroit will primarily depend on three edge rushers: James Houston, recently signed Isaiah Thomas, and Al-Quadin Muhammad.
Houston has demonstrated his potential as a pass rusher, recording eight sacks in seven games during his rookie season in 2022. Meanwhile, head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are familiar with Muhammad from their time together with the New Orleans Saints.
“You don’t have to worry about him bringing aggression and strength to the game,” Campbell noted. “He’s going to set the edge and play hard. He’s competitive, a finisher, and has some rush ability.”
As the season progresses, the Lions need to ramp up their pressure on opposing quarterbacks. However, they face a tough challenge in Week 8, and it will be intriguing to see how their pass rush performs against the Titans on Sunday
