By Moses Joshua 
Detroit keeps a close eye on Green Bay running back Josh Jacobs’ status ahead of a pivotal Thanksgiving showdown.
Lions Look Ahead After Tough Loss
The Detroit Lions are reeling after a tough primetime defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, leaving them on the outside of the NFC playoff picture. Week 12 presents a critical opportunity to rebound, beginning with a matchup against the New York Giants — the first of three games in a condensed 12-day stretch.
While the immediate focus is on getting back in the win column, Detroit’s coaching staff is also keeping tabs on the Green Bay Packers, who loom as the Lions’ Thanksgiving Day opponents. A key part of that equation is the health of Packers running back Josh Jacobs.
Josh Jacobs’ Status Remains Uncertain
Jacobs left Sunday’s game against the Giants in the first quarter with a knee injury and did not return. While initial reports indicated the injury wouldn’t be season-ending, the veteran could miss at least a week of action.
NFL insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport reported on Monday that Jacobs’ knee is structurally sound and does not require surgery. Green Bay plans to re-evaluate him later in the week, and he has not been ruled out for the upcoming Sunday game against the Minnesota Vikings.
“It will be interesting to see what the Packers do with Jacobs, knowing that they have the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday and then the Lions four days later on Thanksgiving,” Pelissero and Rapoport noted.
Implications for Detroit and the NFC North
Jacobs’ availability has strategic significance for both teams. If Green Bay chooses to sit him against the Vikings to preserve him for the Lions, Detroit could face a depleted backfield in the crucial divisional rematch. Conversely, if Jacobs plays against Minnesota, a healthy 10-11 days of rest could make him a dangerous weapon against Detroit.
The Lions’ defense has been vulnerable to the run lately, giving up 148 rushing yards and a touchdown to Philadelphia on Sunday. In Week 1 at Lambeau Field, Jacobs rushed for 66 yards and a touchdown against Detroit, keeping the defense honest even without an overwhelming performance.
Regardless of the decision, Lions fans will be closely monitoring Jacobs’ status throughout the week, as it could affect game planning and matchups leading into Thanksgiving.
A Key Factor in a Pivotal Clash
Ultimately, Detroit’s preparation for the Packers will hinge in part on the availability and health of their star running back. While the Lions are capable of winning against Green Bay regardless of Jacobs’ presence, his condition could shape both teams’ strategies and add another layer of intrigue to this high-stakes NFC North matchup.