The Detroit Lions’ injury woes continue to mount, with head coach Dan Campbell revealing that defensive lineman Alim McNeil and cornerback Carlton Davis likely suffered season-ending injuries during Sunday’s thrilling 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills. McNeil went down with a non-contact knee injury while pursuing Bills quarterback Josh Allen in the second quarter, while Davis sustained what appeared to be a serious jaw injury during the same period.
Despite holding an impressive 12-2 record, the Lions’ defense is now severely depleted, with 10 players on injured reserve. The list includes All-Pro standout Aidan Hutchinson, sidelined indefinitely, as well as Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, and Emmanuel Mosely, among others.
Sunday’s loss ended Detroit’s remarkable 11-game win streak, which began after their Week 2 upset by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The high-octane showdown saw both teams exceed 520 yards of offense. Lions quarterback Jared Goff dazzled with 494 passing yards and five touchdowns to five different receivers, while Allen delivered a stellar performance with 362 yards and a 122.4 passer rating. Notably, neither threw an interception.
However, a controversial decision by Campbell late in the game may have sealed Detroit’s fate. Trailing by 10 with 12 minutes left, the Lions attempted an onside kick that failed, giving Buffalo prime field position. The Bills capitalized with a scoring drive, extending their lead to 45-28. Reflecting on the gamble, Campbell admitted, “I thought we’d get that ball… I wish I wouldn’t have done that.”
The Bills, now 11-3, have clinched their fifth consecutive AFC East title and face a favorable remaining schedule, including matchups against the Jets and Patriots. Meanwhile, the Lions’ focus shifts to securing the NFC North. They’ll need a victory or a Minnesota Vikings loss on “Monday Night Football” against the Chicago Bears to solidify their division lead.
