NFL Week 15 Game Preview: Buffalo Bills vs. Detroit Lions | Key Injuries & Free Pick

2 min read • December 13, 2024

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NFL
NFL Week 15 Game Preview:  Buffalo Bills vs. Detroit Lions | Key Injuries & Free Pick

Bills vs Lions Game Overview


The Week 15 NFL matchup between the Buffalo Bills and the Detroit Lions is set to be a pivotal contest between two of the league's top teams. The Lions, boasting a 12-1 record, lead the NFC North, while the Bills, at 10-3, top the AFC East.

The Detroit Lions have been on an impressive run, securing 11 consecutive victories. Their offense leads the league, averaging 32.1 points per game, contributing to a league-best point differential of +183.

The Buffalo Bills, despite a recent 44-42 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, remain strong contenders with a 10-3 record. Their offense, led by MVP candidate Josh Allen, has been prolific, though their defense has shown vulnerabilities, as evidenced in their latest defeat.

Game Outlook

This matchup is anticipated to be a high-scoring affair, featuring two of the league's most potent offenses. The Lions' balanced attack, combined with their home-field advantage at Ford Field, positions them favorably. However, the Bills' dynamic offense, orchestrated by Josh Allen, presents a formidable challenge, especially against a Lions defense grappling with injuries.

The outcome of this game will have significant playoff implications, potentially influencing seeding and home-field advantage in the postseason.

Detroit Lions Injury Report

Did Not Practice Friday:

LB Trevor Nowaske (concussion)

  • Added Thursday with a concussion, will not clear NFL protocols for this week’s game.

  • Lions may rely on Ezekiel Turner and David Long for the LB3 role with Nowaske out.

Full Practice Friday:

LT Taylor Decker (knee)

  • Full practices indicate Lions’ offensive line may return to full strength.

Decker’s return will boost the running game.

DL Josh Paschal (knee) – Upgraded from limited practice

DT Alim McNeill (concussion) – Full participant

DT DJ Reader (shoulder) – Returned to practice Thursday LP, Friday FP

DL Levi Onwuzurike (hamstring)

  • Nearing a return, offering depth and versatility to the defensive line.

  • Could play a starting role if others (e.g., Paschal, Reader, McNeill) are unavailable.

Buffalo Bills Injury Report

Out for Sunday's game:

CB Rasul Douglas (knee)

Questionable for Sunday's game (limited participation in Friday's practice):

S Taylor Rapp (neck/shoulder)

S Damar Hamlin (back/ribs)

TE Dalton Kincaid (knee)

OT Tylan Grable (groin)

DE Dawuane Smoot (wrist)

TE Quintin Morris (shoulder/groin)

DE Casey Toohill (ribs)

Full participant in Friday's practice:

WR Keon Coleman (wrist) – no injury designation for Week 15.

Matchup Breakdown: Position Groups Impacted by Injuries

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