The Detroit Lions are just about ready for their highly anticipated clash with the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, October 12, and the matchup looks even bigger than anyone expected. That’s because going into this game, the Lions have claimed the No. 1 ranking in the NFL, according to ESPN’s latest power rankings, released Tuesday, October 7.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs are 2-3 to start the season — an unfamiliar position for them — while the Lions stand at 4-1. Even though Kansas City remains the favorite to win, several factors could push this matchup in Detroit’s direction.
The Detroit Lions meet the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, October 12, at Arrowhead Stadium. And yes, Taylor Swift will probably be there cheering on Travis Kelce. But enough about the celebrity angle — the real headline is that one of Detroit’s top players who caused a scare this week appears healthy again and back on the field. That was quick.
Amon-Ra St. Brown, one of the Lions’ most valuable offensive weapons, was absent from practice on Wednesday, October 8, because of a wrist injury. The news was unexpected and worried many within the organization. But there’s no reason for panic now — St. Brown has returned to full activity.
Per the Lions’ Thursday injury report, St. Brown was a full participant once more. That’s great news for Detroit fans. He’s clearly among the top wide receivers in football, and the Lions need him for this big road test against Kansas City. He’s now on track to play on Sunday at Arrowhead.
“After missing Wednesday’s session with a wrist injury, St. Brown was seen back on the practice field Thursday, and his involvement suggests the issue isn’t serious,” CBS Sports reported Thursday, October 9. “He’ll now prepare for a Chiefs defense that’s allowing 7.5 yards per target (21st in the NFL) and has surrendered four touchdown catches to receivers through five games this year.”
The wrist issue was a surprise since St. Brown has been one of Detroit’s most durable and dependable players. He’s missed only two games throughout his entire NFL career.
Detroit Lions Hold the Top Spot
Heading into Sunday, the Detroit Lions sit at the top of the NFL standings. Pretty incredible, right? ESPN’s latest power rankings for Week 6, published Tuesday, October 7, officially place Detroit at No. 1 — a spot they’ve certainly earned.
According to Eric Woodyard of ESPN, “After his first 1,000-yard season in 2024, (Jameson) Williams has opened 2025 slowly. He hasn’t surpassed 50 receiving yards in four of Detroit’s five games as he works to build rhythm with veteran quarterback Jared Goff and clean up dropped passes.”
He continued, “Williams is considered a volatile fantasy choice, averaging only 7.9 points per game in PPR formats. He hasn’t made the most of his opportunities or produced consistently this season — but his explosiveness keeps him dangerous.”
That should boost Detroit’s confidence entering Sunday’s matchup. However, with Kansas City eager to rebound after recent struggles, this Lions-Chiefs showdown is shaping up to be a thrilling battle between two heavyweights.
