The Detroit Lions are currently 2.5-point road betting favorites against the Minnesota Vikings.
Last season, the NFC North rivals split their two matchups, with each securing victories at their home stadiums.
This season, Detroit has an opportunity to secure both a division title and a playoff berth, if it is able to defeat Minnesota in Week 16.
Linebacker Derrick Barnes, who was limited this week at practice, was ruled inactive.
Last week, Detroit's talented linebacker injured his shoulder in a dominant victory against the Broncos.
With Barnes out, Detroit will likely turn to rookie Jack Campbell and veteran Jalen Reeves-Maybin to fill the void.
Also, Malcolm Rodriguez, who has been utilized in a variety of ways this year, could see increased opportunities this week.
Last week, Detroit defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn found it beneficial to pressure quarterback Russell Wilson with a variety of blitzes.
"I wanted to be aggressive in that. I knew the matchups that we had were favorable for us when you go (Khalil) Dorsey out there, because Dorsey can run and you guys have seen that on special teams. 'Iffy' (Ifeatu Melifonwu) being out there, a former corner that can play, so man, those guys allowed us as a defense to go out there and really be aggressive," said Glenn. "And, it was a fun game to call, especially against my former boss, who I like a lot and he’s taught me a lot. To go out there and go toe-to-toe with him, for the most part, it was fun.”
Against Vikings quarterback Nick Mullens, it my again benefit Detroit to take calculated risks. The Vikings have been prone to turn the football over.
Here is the updated list of the Lions' Week 16 inactives:
#DETvsMIN inactives presented by Henry Ford Health pic.twitter.com/JR7F0kO5bz
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 24, 2023
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