The Lions’ holiday came at just the right time. The following two weeks, they host the Packers and the Vikings. These two games will determine whether they are a factor in a tough race in the NFC North.
They also receive reinforcements. Center Cade Mays and safety Brian Branch are expected to return from injuries. Branch’s return is very interesting for a defense that needs help, although Branch can’t be guaranteed to solve all the problems as he comes off a torn Achilles. When healthy, Branch makes a difference. It remains to be seen whether the injury cost him any explosiveness. He won’t get a full share immediately, Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Monday. But just having him back with Mays gives the Lions hope that they can make a statement in the division race over the next two games.
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