Detroit Lions Ready for Divisional Clash Against Commanders
As the Detroit Lions gear up for this Saturday’s divisional clash against the Washington Commanders, the team has an air of optimism. Under head coach Dan Campbell, they are approaching their on-field preparations with a renewed sense of vigor. One significant development adding to their boost comes from the return of their dynamic running back, David Montgomery, who participated fully in Tuesday's practice session, signaling a potential comeback to the gridiron after a challenging knee injury.
Montgomery’s return couldn't have been timelier for a Lions team that has established itself as a formidable force on the ground this season. Averaging 146.4 rushing yards per game, Detroit holds the sixth spot in the NFL rankings for rushing offense. Montgomery’s anticipated return is seen as a reinforcement to capitalize on a perceived vulnerability in the Commanders' defense, which currently allows the third-most rushing yards per game in the league, at 137.5 yards. They concede 4.8 yards per carry, a statistic that bodes well for the Lions as they look to leverage their strong running game.
The return of Montgomery was not without its uncertainties. Initially, medical assessments suggested that the talented running back might face an extended absence, possibly sidelining him for the entire season. This concern weighed heavily on the team and its supporters, who recognize Montgomery’s impact on the field. However, subsequent evaluations provided a more optimistic outlook, indicating that Montgomery could make his return approximately a month after sustaining the knee injury, a timeline he appears ready to meet.
His dedication and swift recovery have not gone unnoticed by those within the organization. Reflecting on Montgomery’s role, head coach Dan Campbell expressed unreserved confidence and appreciation for the running back’s contributions. "No. 5 is a big part of us. He's a huge part of us. To me, he's a bell cow. He's somebody that is a tone-setter. He's a catalyst. There's a place for him here and a place for him in this game," Campbell stated, underscoring Montgomery's crucial role in the Lions’ offensive game plan.
The Lions will also benefit from the presence of cornerback Terrion Arnold, who; like Montgomery, fully participated in practice this week. However, they will have to navigate the challenge of missing key figures in their lineup. Defensive lineman Pat O’Connor, cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and guard Kevin Zeitler were listed as nonparticipants in the latest practice report due to injuries, presenting further obstacles for Campbell and his coaching staff as they fine-tune their strategies for the upcoming battle.
This matchup against the Commanders represents an opportunity for the Lions to assert their dominance in the division, leveraging Montgomery’s expected return and the team’s established rushing prowess against a defense that has shown susceptibility to the run. As the Lions look forward to the challenge, the confidence of both team and fans grows, bolstered by the possibility of seeing one of their key players back in action. For observers and supporters, Saturday’s clash not only promises the excitement of a traditional divisional matchup but also the compelling subplot of Montgomery's return and what it could mean for the Lions moving forward.