Lions bench two players as Saints preparations move forward
The Detroit Lions practiced on Thursday afternoon without center Frank Ragnow and linebacker Alex Anzalone as they got ready for their game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.
There is no known risk that Ragnow will miss that match. Due to an inoperable toe issue, the former All-Pro center has had regular maintenance days throughout the season. Despite this, he has participated in every game this season save one, and Pro Football Focus has him ranked as the league’s second-best center.
The offensive line is back to full strength after its worst outing of the season, thanks to the return of Jonah Jackson to his left shoulder. In the defeat to Green Bay, they gave up 12 quarterback hits and three sacks, and rookie Colby Sorsdal, Jackson’s left guard replacement due to injury, was benched prior to halftime.
With Anzalone continuing to miss practice due to a hand injury that is expected to keep him out of multiple games, the Lions’ defense is their biggest area of concern. That is a serious setback for the faltering team. Anzalone has led the team in tackles (87), already setting career highs in QB hits (nine) and sacks (4.0), and has been one of Detroit’s best defensive players all season.
Malcolm Rodriguez, a former starter, will likely play a supporting role at linebacker in New Orleans, while Derrick Barnes and Jack Campbell are anticipated to carry heavier responsibilities.
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