The Lions are about to face the Vikings in a game that could totally flip the NFC’s No. 1 spot, and the vibes are wild right now. But let’s talk about the player in question. Who got everyone hyped–linebacker Alex Anzalone. He’s been an absolute beast for Detroit all season, but after dealing with a gnarly forearm injury in week 11, the big question was: Would he be back for this massive game? Spoiler: You will be happy to hear.

Anzalone dropped a pic on Instagram showing off his stitches, and let’s just say, it’s clear this dude has been through it. His caption? “Everyone wants to be a dog, until you have to do some dog sh*t.” Classic Anzalone. After breaking his forearm in Week 11 against the Jaguars, he had to get surgery, with a plate and screws to hold the bone together. But after a crazy recovery grind, he’s officially activated off injured reserve.

So why is he still listed as questionable? Simple—the dude is pushing through pain and is not at his 100% yet. He straight up said, “A hundred percent? No,” when asked if he fully trusts his arm. But here’s the thing–he might still suit up. And as we know, he will put it all on the line for the squad. The decision on whether he will play or not might come down to the wire, but let’s be real–if Anzalone’s out there, he can make the defense even stronger.

This season, Alex Anzalone‘s been a huge force for the Lions just like the Star Wars, ‘May the force be with you,’ but here he is the force. Racking up 56 tackles and 1 sack in just 9 games. Losing him would definitely hurt, but you already know–when the stakes are this high, Anzalone will do whatever it takes to get back on that field and give it his all.

Injuries, streaks, and the battle for top spot

The Lions aren’t just sweating over Alex Anzalone’s injury heading into Week 18. WR Kalif Raymond’s back from injured reserve but still has some lingering issues, so it’s gonna be a last-minute decision whether he suits up or not. And if that wasn’t enough, RB Craig Reynolds is questionable with a back injury, leaving Detroit’s backfield looking a little bare.

Looks like the Lions are gonna have to get creative to make sure they’ve got enough firepower in the tank for this massive game. David Montgomery has been ruled out with a knee injury, so Jahmyr Gibbs is about to have a huge night carrying the load for the Lions.

The Vikings are not exactly all good and healthy either. Linebacker Patrick Jones II is out with a knee injury. Kamu Grugier-Hill is dealing with an illness. And cornerback Fabian Moreau is questionable with a hip injury. Despite all that, Minnesota is rolling into this game with a 9-game win streak. But can the Lions be the ones to stop that rampage? Or will the Vikings keep their hot streak alive with a 10th straight win? No one knows!

But, the only thing that we can expect is. It’s gonna be a knock-down, drag-out battle with both teams banged up and fighting for that No. 1 NFC spot. It’s do or die, and the stakes don’t get any higher. Let’s get ready for a showdown!