Lions Suffer Huge Setback Despite 23-20 Win: Two Star Linemen Out for Two Weeks.
The Detroit Lions continued their impressive season with a narrow 23-20 victory, but the win was overshadowed by the loss of two key defensive linemen, Levi Onwuzurike and Josh Paschal. Both players are set to miss the next two weeks due to injuries, dealing a significant blow to a Lions team aiming for a deep playoff run.
Levi Onwuzurike, a cornerstone of Detroit’s defensive interior, sustained a lower-body injury late in the second half. Onwuzurike’s presence on the defensive line has been crucial, particularly in stopping the run. The former second-round pick has been a steady force this season, recording 15 tackles and 1.5 sacks over 12 games. His absence will leave a noticeable gap in the middle of the Lions’ defense, forcing backups to step into larger roles against high-caliber offenses.
Josh Paschal, a versatile defensive end, also suffered a soft-tissue injury during the game and will be sidelined for the same duration. Paschal’s ability to disrupt the pocket and make critical plays in high-pressure situations has been a key asset for Detroit’s defense. With two sacks, seven quarterback hits, and a fumble recovery this season, his energy and production will be difficult to replace.
Head coach Dan Campbell addressed the injuries after the game, expressing both concern and confidence. “These guys are warriors, and losing them, even for a short time, is tough. But this is part of football. It’s next man up, and I believe in the depth we’ve built on this team,” Campbell said.
The Lions, now 9-3 and firmly leading the NFC North, will turn to players like John Cominsky, Benito Jones, and Isaiah Buggs to fill the void left by Onwuzurike and Paschal. The team faces a challenging stretch of games against playoff contenders, making their ability to adapt crucial to maintaining momentum.
While the Lions remain one of the NFL’s hottest teams, these injuries test their depth and resilience. As Detroit marches toward its first potential division title in decades, how they weather this setback could define their season and playoff aspirations.