After sitting out Week 11 with a shoulder injury, Sam LaPorta is set to return to the Detroit Lions’ starting lineup in Week 12 against the Indianapolis Colts. NFL insider Tom Pelissero confirmed the news, giving fans a reason to be optimistic. While LaPorta’s rookie season started slowly, he’s been finding his rhythm, scoring three touchdowns over the last five games. His return adds a much-needed spark to Detroit’s offense.
Still, the Lions are facing challenges as injuries continue to impact the roster. Linebacker Alex Anzalone, one of the team’s defensive leaders, was placed on injured reserve, and the Lions promoted linebacker David Long Jr. from the practice squad to fill the gap. The loss of Anzalone has left a noticeable void, and cornerback Amik Robertson spoke about the difficulty of moving forward without him.
“It’s always hard losing a player like that, man,” Robertson said. “Of course, we probably don’t have another Anz, but we’ve got younger guys that could step up and finish on the road… because, like I said, if we’ve got guys out there playing for one another, I think we’ll be fine.”
Head coach Dan Campbell echoed this belief, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to adapt. Malcolm Rodriguez, affectionately nicknamed “Rodrigo,” is expected to step into a bigger role.
“Jack (Campbell) and Rodrigo are going to play a lot for us,” Campbell explained. “After that, it’s about whether we go by committee. Do we use a third linebacker? A defensive back? It’s hard to say right now. But Jack is such a smart, instinctive player. He’s been studying right alongside Alex, learning and listening. He’s ready to step up.”
Despite adversity, the Lions continue to dominate. Their success has even drawn criticism, with some questioning their lopsided victories. Cornerback Carlton Davis didn’t mince words when responding to those detractors.
“If people have a problem with what we’re doing or complaining about it, then they can just come out here and play better football,” Davis said.
The Lions proved their dominance with a commanding 52-6 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 11. Jared Goff threw for over 400 yards and four touchdowns, while running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs contributed three scores. The defense stifled Jacksonville, leaving no doubt that Detroit is among the NFC’s best teams and a force to be reckoned with.
