The Detroit Lions made a big statement coming out of the bye week. Dan Campbell's team showed plenty of teeth by taking down the Green Bay Packers, especially on the defensive side of the gridiron.
The Lions kept Jordan Love and the Packers' explosive passing game in check. Clearly, having Brian Branch back in the fold helped their struggling secondary, and they also shook things up at cornerback.
Now, it looks like defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard must get on his bag again ahead of Week 8. Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is dealing with an ankle injury and may not play, leaving Khalil Dorsey as a potential starter opposite DJ Reed.
The Lions may have to shake things up at cornerback
The Lions have recently started Roger McCreary opposite Reed, with the former moving to the slot in nickel formations. Rakestraw has done a better job than the ever-struggling Rock Ya-Sin, and Dorsey just introduced himself to the world in the win over the Packers.
Mostly known for his special team duties, the Lions' gunner broke up two big plays on Sunday. Dan Campbell had plenty of praise for him and even gave him a game ball, so he might be in line for an expanded role.
The Lions can also give rookie Keith Abney II some opportunities on the boundary. They're working him out af safety, and he has looked much better there, but they might be undermanned at cornerback if Raskestraw can't suit up.
Campbell's team will be in for a long day in the office in Week 8. They'll host the Minnesota Vikings, the last undefeated team in football, and while their record might be misleading, divisional games are must-wins, and Brian Flores' defense is definitely a force to be reckoned with.
On the flip side, Kyler Murray and the Vikings' offense have been terrible this season. Justin Jefferson is always a handful, and they have no shortage of playmakers, but the passing game hasn't taken off yet.
The Lions have already proved that they can hold their ground against explosive offenses, and winning another divisional game would be huge after dropping two games they should've won earlier in the season.
Dorsey might not be used to playing extended snaps on defense, but he can play both defensive back spots. This is a 'next man up' list, and who knows? He might even stumble upon a full-time starting job if he does well in Week 8.
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