Lions have one huge advantage over Ravens ahead of MNF

In a game between two Super Bowl contenders, the result may very well come down to who isn't playing rather than who is.

Both the Detroit Lions and the Baltimore Ravens have had their share of injury issues early on in the season. For the Lions, much of the discussion this past week has centered around pass rusher Marcus Davenport, who has now officially been ruled out with a chest injury.

Prior to the release of the injury report, head coach Dan Campbell spoke to the media and all but declared Davenport was out for the Week 3 Monday Night Football game. Despite the disappointing news, Campbell still struck an optimistic tone regarding an eventual Davenport return, saying, "We do not feel this is season-ending."

The rest of the injury report was promising as linebacker Jack Campbell (Ankle), tackle Taylor Decker (Shoulder/Rest), safety Kerby Joseph (Knee), and cornerback D.J. Reed (Knee) are all listed as questionable for Monday's game.

According to Friday's practice report, Davenport was the only Lion to not practice. Campbell, Joseph, and Reed were all limited, while Decker was a full participant. All four are likely to play on Monday, but things can always change before kickoff.

The Decker news should come as a relief, given that fans had to wait until hours before the Lions' Week 2 game against the Chicago Bears to learn if Decker would suit up. Tackle Giovanni Manu had practiced with the starters throughout the week leading up to that game.

The Lions' special teams unit is also getting a boost on Monday as running back Sione Vaki and linebacker Trevor Nowaske are poised to make their season debuts after both missing time. Vaki and Nowaske have each been listed as full participants in practice throughout the week.

Ravens will enter Monday Night Football banged up

While the Lions have mostly received good news, the same cannot be said for their opponents, as the Ravens have four players already listed as out.

The Ravens will be missing two key players on their defensive line in pass rusher Kyle Van Noy (Hamstring) and defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike (Neck). The Lions' new-look offensive line will still be tested on Monday, but it's tough to deny that the Lions are catching a big break not having to line up against these two Pro Bowlers.

The Ravens will have to wait at least another week for the season debuts of All Pro fullback Patrick Ricard (Calf) and tight end Isaiah Likely (Foot). Likely did see limited practice throughout the week, but Ricard did not.

Though this is a big game for the Ravens, they do play the Kansas City Chiefs next week, which could have seeding implications at the end of the regular season. It does make sense for the Ravens to play it safe with their injuries and trust that quarterback Lamar Jackson, and his impressive record versus NFC opponents, can lead them to victory.

The Lions and Ravens are expected to play a competitive match-up, but in a rare sign, the Lions will be the ones entering a pivotal game with the healthier roster. That could prove to be the difference when the dust settles on Monday Night Football.

AARON RODGERS FIRES UP THE TEAM: 'WE GOT THE WIN, NOW LET'S FIX OUR MISTAKES AND COME OUT STRONGER!'

The Pittsburgh Steelers secured an important win against the New England Patriots in Week 3, but the victory wasn’t without its flaws. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, known for his leadership and no-nonsense approach, was the first to admit that the team’s performance left much to be desired. After the 21-14 win, Rodgers gave a candid statement, emphasizing that while the team had secured the win, there was plenty of work to be done.

“Yeah, it wasn’t pretty, but we got the win. That’s what matters,” Rodgers said, addressing the media after the game. “We know there’s work to be done, but we’ll get there. We’re a family, and we’re going to fix our mistakes together and come out stronger. One game at a time.”

Rodgers’ words were not only a reflection of the victory but also a reminder of the mentality that has kept him at the top of the game for so long. A win is a win, but Rodgers knows better than most that in the NFL, consistency and improvement are key to sustaining success. While the defense played lights out, forcing five turnovers and earning crucial stops, the offense struggled at times, and Rodgers himself had an up-and-down performance. He threw for 139 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, but acknowledged that he didn’t play up to his own standards.

The Steelers’ rushing attack was another area that left much to be desired, with the team accumulating just 64 yards on the ground. Despite these offensive struggles, the defense remained solid, keeping the Patriots at bay when it mattered most. But Rodgers’ leadership showed when he stressed the importance of getting back to work.

“We know that we can be better. We can’t keep relying on our defense to carry us every week,” he added. “We’ve got to get in the film room, make the necessary adjustments, and get ready for the next game. I’m confident we’ll get there because we’re a team that works together.”

Rodgers’ leadership is exactly what the Steelers need as they head into Week 4 against the Las Vegas Raiders. With their offense looking to find its rhythm, Rodgers’ calm, composed approach to the game will help keep the team focused. But as he pointed out, no victory should be taken for granted, and there’s always room to improve.

As the Steelers aim for a deep playoff run, Rodgers knows that each game is an opportunity to get better. With his determination and leadership, the Steelers have the potential to fix their mistakes, come together as a team, and build on their current momentum.

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