It’s almost time for kickoff at Paycor Stadium, as the 3-1 Detroit Lions get set to take on the 2-2 Cincinnati Bengals in a late-afternoon Week 5 matchup. The Lions have officially released their inactives list, providing a clearer picture of who will be available for this key NFC vs. AFC showdown.
Here is the Lions Inactives List for Week 5:
Why It Matters
The Lions enter Sunday’s game banged up on both sides of the ball. Left tackle Taylor Decker was downgraded to doubtful on Sunday morning due to a lingering shoulder injury, while defensive tackle Alim McNeill was ruled out as he continues recovering from a knee issue.
In Decker’s absence, Devin Cochran, recently elevated from the practice squad, will be in uniform as Detroit shuffles its offensive line. Meanwhile, Giovanni Manu could also see valuable snaps protecting Jared Goff against a Bengals front led by Trey Hendrickson.
On defense, the Lions will once again lean on D.J. Reader and Tyleik Williams to fill the interior void left by McNeill. The secondary also remains a focus area after D.J. Reed was placed on Injured Reserve earlier this week, leading to the elevation of veteran Tre Flowers.
What to Watch
Offensively, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Dan Campbell looks to set the tone on the ground early. With David Montgomery set for an emotional homecoming in his native Cincinnati, the Lions could lean heavily on their run game against a Bengals defense allowing over 135 rushing yards per game.
Defensively, Kelvin Sheppard’s group will be tasked with containing Ja’Marr Chase, who’s one of the top wide receivers in the NFL. The Lions’ pressure packages and secondary discipline will be crucial in slowing down Cincinnati’s passing rhythm.
Kickoff & Broadcast Info
Matchup: Detroit Lions (3-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (2-2)
Kickoff: 4:25 PM ET
Location: Paycor Stadium — Cincinnati, Ohio
TV: FOX
Radio: 97.1 The Ticket (WXYT-FM)