Date: December 5, 2024
Time: 8:15 PM ET
Site: Ford Field, Detroit, MI
TV/Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
In a pivotal NFC North matchup, the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions square off under the lights of Ford Field. Both teams enter Week 14 following Thanksgiving victories, but the stakes are even higher as they battle for divisional supremacy. The Lions, sitting atop the division with an 11-1 record, will look to sweep the season series after defeating the Packers 24-14 at Lambeau in Week 9. Meanwhile, Green Bay, riding a three-game winning streak, knows that a win in Detroit is essential to keep their division title hopes alive.
Week 9 Recap: Lions Outlast Packers
Their previous meeting was a defensive slugfest despite Green Bay outgaining Detroit 411-261 in total yardage. The Packers’ inability to capitalize in the red zone—managing only one touchdown in four trips—proved costly. The Lions’ opportunistic defense and timely plays, including a late touchdown pass from Jared Goff, sealed the win.
Injury Woes: Lions’ Defense in Shambles
Detroit’s defense faces significant challenges heading into this rematch. Star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who leads the team with 11 sacks, is out with a broken leg. Adding to their woes, 11 other defensive players are on injured reserve, with key contributors like linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez and cornerbacks Emmanuel Moseley and Carlton Davis also nursing injuries.
Detroit may need to rely heavily on its offense, led by Jared Goff, to compensate for the depleted defense. The Lions have leaned on their efficiency all season, but Goff’s Thanksgiving performance was subpar by his standards. A bounce-back game from him could be crucial.
Packers’ Health and Momentum
In contrast, the Packers arrive at Ford Field in their healthiest state all season. They’ve found rhythm on both sides of the ball, particularly on offense, where quarterback Jordan Love has been in top form. Love is coming off a stellar Thanksgiving performance, throwing for 274 yards and two touchdowns without taking a sack. Running back Josh Jacobs has also been instrumental in controlling the clock, and the Packers will likely emphasize the ground game to keep Detroit’s potent offense off the field.
Key Matchup: Jordan Love vs. Jared Goff
Jordan Love (Packers): Love is peaking at the right time. His 21-of-28 performance on Thanksgiving highlighted his efficiency and deep-ball accuracy, averaging 9.8 yards per attempt. Green Bay will need another sharp outing from him to outscore Detroit.
Jared Goff (Lions): Goff has been one of the NFL’s most efficient quarterbacks this season, completing 71.8% of his passes. While his Thanksgiving game was below his usual standards, his ability to orchestrate long drives will be crucial, especially with a banged-up defense behind him.
Injury Report
Green Bay Packers:
•WR Romeo Doubs (concussion) – Questionable
•DE Arron Mosby (concussion) – Questionable
•CB Corey Ballentine (knee) – Questionable
Detroit Lions:
•DE Josh Paschal (knee) – Questionable
•DE Levi Onwuzurike (hamstring) – Questionable
•LB Malcolm Rodriguez (knee) – Out
•LB Mekhi Wingo (knee) – Out
•CB Emmanuel Moseley (lower body) – Questionable
•CB Carlton Davis (knee/thumb) – Questionable
What to Expect
This game promises to be a clash of styles. The Lions, despite their defensive absences, will aim to lean on their high-octane offense. On the other hand, the Packers will try to dominate the time of possession, utilizing their ground game and capitalizing on Detroit’s defensive injuries.
With Green Bay fighting to stay in the NFC North race and Detroit looking to secure its dominance, expect an intense battle with playoff implications.
