One recreation in Week 18 stands out among the many relaxation. The 14-2 Minnesota Vikings are on the street to face the 14-2 Detroit Lions. Sunday’s recreation is for the NFC North title and the coveted #1 seed within the NFC playoffs. Week 18 has huge implications for the postseason.Â
It’s the distinction between having an additional week of relaxation and doubtlessly having a lighter matchup within the divisional spherical. Earlier this season, the Lions beat the Vikings 31-29 on a late discipline objective by Jake Bates. In opposition to the Jaguars in Week 11, LB Alex Anzalone suffered a damaged forearm. He’s missed the final six video games for the Lions. Nevertheless, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Community reported that Anzalone was a full participant at observe on Thursday. Barring a setback, the veteran LB is ready to return in Detroit’s largest recreation of the season on Sunday Nigth Soccer.
Alex Anzanlone plans to return in Week 18 for the Lions
From @GMFB: Mike Vrabel interviews at this time with the #Jets. In the meantime, for #Lions–#Vikings, RB Aaron Jones is coping with a quad contusion, whereas LB Alex Anzalone might return this Sunday evening. pic.twitter.com/qIIbIWfcbG
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 3, 2025
At 14-2, the Lions would love to finish the common season with a win and get the #1 seed. They’ve been hit laborious with accidents in 2024 and additional relaxation would profit the staff immensely. Ten defensive gamers are at present on the injured reserve for the Lions. The staff has been taking part in with backups and third-string gamers all 12 months lengthy. Throughout a 52-6 blowout win vs. the Jags, LB Alex Anzalone suffered a damaged forearm. He missed six straight video games however was not dominated out for the 2024 season.
Anzalone has returned to observe for the Lions and was a full participant on Thursday. In 9 begins this season, Anzalone has 40 mixed tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 4 QB hits. The 30-year-old is thought for his protection expertise as a linebacker and Detroit wants his manufacturing again in Week 18. Minnesota is firing on all cylinders offensively and they won’t be simple to cease. Having Alex Anzalone is a bonus for defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Will the Lions end an finish to a terrific 2024 season or will the Vikings pull off the beautiful upset?