The Detroit Lions showed on Thanksgiving day their passing coverage and offensive line both need some fine-tuning. At this point in the season every team needs to make adjustments but having to make them when your opponent is missing their star players always helps.
Obviously, no one wants players to be hurt but this Lions team could use some lighter work after their last two games. The Saints star pass rusher Cameron Jordan and wide receiver Chris Olave both have their status up in the air as of Saturday. Coach Dennis Allen hinted that it will come down to game time if either plays.
Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reported that Jordan will be listed as questionable despite not practicing. Normally a player not practicing during a game week is an indicator he may not play but in the case of Jordan and his potential Hall of Fame career, he has earned being graded on a curve. Allen also mentioned they will give him every opportunity to play up to the last minute of the game.
On the situation surrounding Chris Olave, he remained in concussion protocol as of Saturday. Allen discussed his status by giving an update that he had one more step to complete and there was a chance he could clear it for the game.
Both Chris Olave and Cameron Jordan prove unique puzzles for the Lions to solve. Both the secondary and offensive line have not played particularly well the last two weeks so if they get cleared this game becomes much tougher for a Lions team on the ropes. The Saints are fighting for their lives in a crowded NFC South just as the Lions are fighting to remain on top in the NFC North.
Something has to give on Sunday and the status of Jordan and Olave are a big factor in that.
