When it comes to NFL clashes, they aren’t bigger than the NFC North Division rivalry between Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. Both teams are members of the Northern Division, which makes their matches more attractive to fans on either side. Even from a neutral perspective, you can always expect a heated encounter between the two. Every time the Lion vs Vikings match schedule is announced it gets both sets of fans equally excited about their respective bragging rights. If you are eager to get a complete overview of both teams and Lions vs Vikings game preview. Going through this article would help you gather all the information required.
Table of Contents
Detroit Lions: Team Overview
- Offensive players
When it comes to the offensive attack deployed by the Lions, it is headed by Jared Goff from the deep quarterback position. At the same time, the receivers around him consist of impressive talents like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Tyrell Williams. Meanwhile, D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams are said to function as supporting offensive players throughout the match.
- Defensive players
The defense of the Lions has been built across emerging players like linebacker Alex Anzalone and the last line of defense, Trey Flowers.
- Key players
Apart from offensive and defensive players, multiple vital players are said to stand out among the rest in every match. This includes T.J. Hockenson, who plays dominantly on the tight end while being supported by the playmaking abilities of cornerback Jeff Okudah.
Minnesota Vikings: Team Overview
- Attacking players
The Vikings’ attacking abilities are powered by the reliable quarterback Kirk Cousins, who possesses a solid passing game. Moreover, receivers like Justin Jefferson and Adam Theilen help the Vikings score goals for fun whenever they get the slightest chance. Finally, Dalvin Cook is considered one of the best in the NFL when it comes to running games.
- Defensive players
Similar to their attacking capabilities, the Vikings are said to have a solid defense that consists of players like Eric Kendricks called linebackers. Meanwhile, Kendricks and Danielle Hunter together make up the defensive unit for the Vikings.
- Key Players
The key players consist of Justin Jefferson, who enjoyed a hugely successful rookie season that has benefitted the Vikings a lot. On the other hand, Dalvin Cook’s running capabilities are the topic of discussion among most NFL talk shows.
Lions Vs Vikings: Key Match Battles
- The battle between two quarterbacks
Quarterbacks of each team will have critical roles to play as Jared Goff has been given the opportunity for the Lions. Meanwhile, for the Vikings, it is up to Kirk Cousins, who is responsible for breaking the opposition’s defense with their offensive style of play.
- Running backs
Although Dalvin Cook is considered the most renowned running back in the league. But in Lions vs Vikings, D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams of the Lions will ensure a tough batter for Dalvin Cook.
- Agility of receivers
Similar to quarterbacks, the receivers are also known to play a vital role in ensuring their team’s success on the field. The Lions have T.J. Hockenson, and the Vikings possess Justin Jefferson, which would be necessary in dictating the score for their respective teams.
Lions vs Vikings: Game Preview
The recent match-up between the Lions and Vikings produced an enthralling encounter for both teams. Coming on the back of a loss, the Lions wanted to avoid losing two games in a row before going into their playoffs. Therefore, the Lions coach decided to utilise his strong squad to boost the team’s morale. Remember, the Detroit Lions would be playing their first home playoff match in 30 years.
Eventually, Detroit managed to win their game with a score of 30-20, which really put a close to their season on a higher note. Moreover, Lions also managed to protect their record of not losing two matches in a row this NFL season.
Amon-Ra St. Brown playing as a wide receiver had an impressive day on the field. He managed to get himself involved in seven passes for 144 years, including a touchdown. However, it was Sam LaPorta who managed to open the account for the Lions by receiving a pass from quarterback Jared Goff.
The Lions ended up suffering a devastating blow within the second half when Sam LaPorta got injured and left the game. Unsurprisingly, the Lions managed to extend their lead to 13-0 when Jahmyr Gibbs used the 41-yard pass from Kalif Raymond to complete a touchdown.
With halftime approaching, the Lions continued to maintain their lead 13-6 as the Vikings only managed to score in the last few minutes using Greg Joseph’s 39 and 43-yard field goals. As the third quarter came by, the Lions continued to extend their lead with 20-6.
Nonetheless, Minnesota didn’t give up, as they continued to put up the pressure by scoring a 38-yard touchdown pass, using Nick Mullens as quarterback and wide receiver Justin Jefferson. Furthermore, the two teams continued to trade touchdowns as neither wanted to lose their games to its division rivals. Finally, when Lions vs Vikings was looking like a comeback was on the cards.
Cam Sutton and defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who was coming back from his pectoral muscle injury after two weeks. Ensured that the Vikings didn’t make a comeback while the Lions booked their playoff ticket with a win to boost their morale.
Lions vs Vikings: Current Injury Report
Among all the other players, Sam LaPorta of Lions suffered a severe injury when his left knee bent backwards. LaPorta continued to lie on the ground for a few minutes as he couldn’t move at the time.
However, after sometimes he did walk off the field directly to the dressing room. LaPorta’s expected return date still needs to be decided. Therefore, the Lions coach has opted him out of the squad.
Conclusion
As for the next game, the Vikings season comes to an end as they weren’t able to qualify for playoffs. But, the Lions would be hosting their first playoff match at Ford Field. Both teams would be looking to bounce back stronger after their recent encounters, which produced a great game to watch for the fans present worldwide.