Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings: Preview, Start Time, TV, Live Stream, Predictions
Dec. 16, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA: Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Lions 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Injuries Aplenty
The biggest headline headed into Sunday’s match-up is the status of Detroit Lions mega receiver, Calvin Johnson. Johnson is listed as DOUBTFUL on the Detroit Lions official injury report and head coach Jim Caldwell has said, that despite Johnson getting to ok from team physicians he may rest the Pro Bowl wideout come Sunday.
“You want to be smart. You don’t want to put yourself in a position where you can’t be there for the team when it comes down to it there at the end, and that’s what we’re trying to be smart about right now.” – Calvin Johnson
Johnson aggravated his already injured right ankle last Sunday during the Lions 17-14 loss to the Buffalo Bills at home. Johnson left the field after making his only catch of the contest and did not return. His injury is officially listed as a high ankle sprain.
In my opinion, Johnson does not play, despite the importance of this being a division game on the road.
“In my mind I think the best is yet to come. Hopefully my role keeps increasing and hopefully I keep having an opportunity to help this team win.” – Golden Tate
Golden Tate will become quarterback Matthew Stafford‘s No. 1 option if Megatron doesn’t suit up. The former Seattle Seahawk who signed with Detroit during the off-season, has been Stafford’s go-to receiver with Johnson aching. He had a career-high eight catches for 116 yards against the Jets before catching seven passes for a career-best 134 yards and a touchdown last week.
Detroit Lions running back Reggie Bush is also not 100 percent. He is listed as QUESTIONABLE, and may or may not play in Minnesota. If he cant go expect Joique Bell to carry the load with help from Theo Riddick and George Winn. Bell and Riddick both return to action after missing last weeks game.