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Summary:

Despite being eliminated from playoff contention, the Detroit Lions plan to play most of their starters in their Week 18 game against the Chicago Bears. Coach Dan Campbell emphasized that the team won’t be tanking and wants to treat the game as a regular one. Players with significant injury risks will be held out, but those with minor bumps and bruises are expected to play. Key players to watch include Amon-Ra St. Brown, Taylor Decker, and Penei Sewell, all of whom have been dealing with injuries. The Lions will play the best available player regardless of age. The Chicago Bears, with playoff seeding still at stake, are set to face the Lions in their last game of the season.

News Article:

Lions to Play Starters Against Bears Despite Playoff Elimination; No Tanking Allowed

Allen Park, MI – The Detroit Lions (8-8) may be out of the playoff hunt, but Head Coach Dan Campbell insists his team will be playing to win in their season finale against the Chicago Bears (11-5) this Sunday at Soldier Field. Despite a disappointing 23-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas that sealed their fate, Campbell confirmed the Lions will field mostly their starters, emphasizing that the team will not be tanking for draft position.

“We want to treat this like a regular game,” Campbell said. “We’re going out there to compete and finish the season strong.”

However, the coach acknowledged that players with significant injury concerns will be handled cautiously. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who has been battling knee and ankle issues, is considered day-to-day after exiting Thursday’s game. Left tackle Taylor Decker has been playing through a shoulder injury all season, and right tackle Penei Sewell sustained a lower-body injury during Thursday’s contest, but managed to finish the game.

Campbell emphasized that if injuries force backups into the lineup, the team will field the best available player, regardless of age or experience. “Next best guy available,” he stated.

The Bears, under the guidance of former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, have a lot to play for. While they can’t secure the NFC’s top seed, they are still in contention for the second seed, giving them a strong incentive to win against the Lions.

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