Dallas Cowboys star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb knows exactly what it’s like to face the Detroit Lions secondary, and he isn’t holding back ahead of their high-stakes Thursday Night Football showdown. After three straight seasons of going head-to-head with Detroit, Lamb understands the physical challenge that awaits him in what feels like a must-win game for both NFC contenders.

CeeDee Lamb’s Dominant History vs. the Lions

Lamb has consistently delivered strong performances against Detroit:

2022: 4 receptions, 70 yards in a 24–6 win

2023: Monster outing with 13 catches, 227 yards, 1 touchdown in a dramatic 20–19 victory

2024: Logged 7 receptions for 89 yards despite a 47–9 loss to Detroit

Now entering the 2025 matchup, Lamb says he expects a physical, playoff-like atmosphere.

“I find it fun; that’s what football is,” Lamb told reporters. “Sometimes the refs let you play, sometimes they won’t… but as far as the physicality, I know what’s going to happen.”

Lions and Cowboys Both Fighting for Playoff Survival

This Week 14 game carries massive playoff implications:

Lions (7–5) sit third in the NFC North

Cowboys (6–5–1) sit second in the NFC East

Both teams are the first two out of the current playoff picture

Detroit went 15–2 last season but has watched the Chicago Bears take control of the division in 2025. Meanwhile, Dallas has heated up with three straight wins, including a Thanksgiving victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

According to NFL.com projections:

Lions playoff chances: 43%

Cowboys playoff chances: 17%

A loss won’t eliminate either team, but it would be a major blow.

Detroit Lions Secondary Hit Hard by Terrion Arnold Injury

The Cowboys may have a key advantage after the Lions placed rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold on injured reserve for season-ending shoulder surgery on December 1.

Arnold, the No. 24 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had already missed time this season due to multiple injuries, including a concussion. His absence leaves Detroit short-handed as they prepare to face two elite receivers in CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.

One fan on X voiced frustration with the Lions’ player durability issues, noting this is the third rookie in two years to suffer late-season injuries.

With Arnold out, Detroit will rely on a new starter — and this is far from the ideal week to do so.