The Detroit Lions are facing a significant challenge with the absence of their star center, Frank Ragnow, due to a partially torn pectoral muscle. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the severity of Ragnow's injury and the team's decision to sideline him for the upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks, emphasizing the need to prevent further damage and ensure a swift recovery for their tough-as-nails player Sporting News.
So, what's the game plan? The Lions need to reconfigure their offensive line, and there's some buzz around the potential solutions. Graham Glasgow, who has proven to be a versatile asset for the team, is anticipated to slide over from left guard to center. This comes after a ringing endorsement from quarterback Jared Goff, who referred to Glasgow as the team's “Swiss army knife” due to his ability to play multiple positions on the line Lions Wire.
This shift means the Lions now have a gap at left guard. Kayode Awosika and Michael Niese are the only other guards on the active roster, with rookie Christian Mahogany out due to a non-football illness until at least Week 5. Both Awosika and Niese come with their own sets of pros and cons. Niese, though listed as the backup center on the depth chart, has been largely untested in the NFL, having played only 12 snaps in his career. Awosika, on the other hand, brings more experience to the table, with 29 games and five starts under his belt Sporting News.
The emphasis on having a strong and adaptable offensive line can't be overstated, especially against a formidable Seahawks defense. While Glasgow stepping up to play center appears to be the favored approach, this flexibility is crucial. The Lions have until Monday to make the final decision, and while nothing is set in stone yet, the likelihood of seeing Glasgow at center and Awosika at left guard presents a strategy focusing on leveraging experience in a high-pressure game Detroit Free Press.
Beyond the immediate need to fill Ragnow's position, the Lions are also dealing with other practice absences, including safety Ifeatu Melifonwu. However, they have seen some positives, with tight end Sam LaPorta and offensive tackle Dan Skipper returning to action, which could provide a morale boost and add depth to the roster Sports Illustrated.
In summary, the Lions face a critical test against the Seahawks but are preparing strategically to mitigate the impact of key injuries. The flexibility and experience of players like Graham Glasgow and Kayode Awosika will be pivotal. As always in the NFL, adaptability and depth will be the keys to success.
What other sites are saying about this topic
How Detroit Lions could fill the void left by Frank Ragnow's injury from Sporting News
Sam LaPorta Returns to Practice Friday from Sports Illustrated
Dungeon of Doom mailbag: How Lions hope to survive injuries, snap Seattle slump from MLive
Detroit Lions preparing for O-line shuffle with no Frank Ragnow against testy Seahawks' D from Detroit Free Press
Jared Goff tips off who is Frank Ragnow's replacement at center from Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire