Lions Don't Have Long Injury Report For Game With Saints, But Big Names Are On It
By Danny Cox
The Detroit Lions have actually done better this season as the year had gone on and they adjusted to the injuries that had come their way. Now, they're sitting with a rather healthy active roster and only six total names are listed on this week's injury report, but each and every single one of them is a big one.
Wide receiver Lance Moore has been battling an ankle injury for weeks now, and it has caused him to miss the last two games. He did practice fully all week, and is listed as probable so it looks as if he will be facing off with his old team, the New Orleans Saints, on Monday night.
Five players are listed as questionable while none are doubtful or out for the Lions.
Both wide receiver Calvin Johnson and tight end Eric Ebron sat out practice on Saturday, but they are both expected to start and play on Monday. Johnson has been bothered by an ankle injury for weeks and weeks, but he's been playing through the pain and doing alright.
Johnson needs just 16 yards to reach a sixth consecutive season with 1,000 yards receiving. The Saints rank 30th against the pass, and he could likely have a field day with Matthew Stafford, but only if he's feeling well enough to do so.
Ebron has dealt with an illness this week which has kept him limited in each practice. It's good that he will be able to play through the illness as Brandon Pettigrew was just placed on injured reserve which officially ended his season.
Offensive tackle Michael Ola (knee) should also be alright to play.
On the defensive side of the ball, safety Glover Quin (ankle) and defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (neck) were limited in practice this week. They also should both be ready to play on Monday, but may be limited in their game-time action.
The New Orleans Saints are going to be playing hard and fighting as they still have a chance at the playoffs, so the Lions really can't take this underachieving time lightly. Luckily, the Lions are going into the game with a rather healthy roster, and if Johnson can go at even 75 percent, then Detroit has a big advantage.
Probable:
Lance Moore, WR (ankle)
Questionable:
Eric Ebron, TE (illness)
Glover Quin, S (ankle)
Calvin Johnson, WR (ankle)
Haloti Ngata, DT (neck)
Michael Ola, T (knee)
Doubtful:
None
Out:
None
Danny Cox knows a little something about the NFL, whether it means letting you know what penalty will come from the flag just thrown on the field or quickly spouting off who the Chicago Bears drafted in the first round of the 1987 draft (Jim Harbaugh). He plans on bringing you the best news, previews, recaps, and anything else that may come along with the exciting world of the National Football League. Danny is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com.