The Detroit Lions are getting a massive shot of adrenaline for their defense just in time for their Sunday night showdown. Starting EDGE DJ Wonnum, after being upgraded from no practice, was a full participant on Thursday. This is HUGE for their pass rush as they gear up to face the Carolina Panthers.
Lions’ Defense Gets a Boost, But O-Line Still Hurting
Wonnum’s return to full practice is exactly what the Lions needed. Last week, they mixed up their defensive line personnel, and Wonnum absolutely capitalized, racking up two sacks. Now, with questions swirling around the Panthers’ pass protection and two of their starting offensive linemen dealing with injuries, Wonnum could be a total game-wrecker again on Sunday night. Talk about timing, right?
On the flip side, things aren’t looking so hot for offensive guard Ben Bartch. He’s still stuck in “no practice” territory, marking his fifth missed practice and a game. Even if he could magically return on Friday, it’s a long shot he’d be ready to play. Good thing the Lions have eight other offensive linemen, so they won’t be short on bodies, but it’s never good to see a starter sidelined. In better news, cornerback D.J. Reed managed some limited practice this week, a promising sign as he battles a rib injury. Getting Reed back would be a huge relief, especially with Panthers QB Bryce Young having a terrific season passing the ball.
Panthers’ Offensive Line Facing Real Tests
The Carolina Panthers’ injury report paints a picture of concern, particularly on their offensive line. Right guard Damien Lewis (elbow) didn’t practice at all, and wide receiver Xavier Legette (knee) also missed practice, having already sat out their last game. Yikes. These are significant absences, especially when you’re about to face a pass rusher like a fully healthy DJ Wonnum.
There were some upgrades for Carolina, though. Wide receiver Jalen Coker (quad) and right tackle Monroe Freeling (concussion) both moved up to limited practice from no practice. Plus, a bunch of key players like quarterback Bryce Young (knee), running back Chuba Hubbard, tight end Darren Waller (rest and toe), EDGE Princely Umanmielen (ankle), linebacker Devin Lloyd (calf, missed last game), and safety Nick Scott (rib, missed last game) were all full participants. But make no mistake, with those O-line questions, it’s going to be a tough night protecting Young.
This Sunday night primetime matchup between the Lions and Panthers is gonna be one to watch. Can the Panthers’ offense protect Bryce Young against a potentially reinvigorated Lions pass rush led by Wonnum? Or will Detroit’s defense feast on those O-line injuries? It’s all on the line as these teams battle under the lights.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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