The Detroit Lions are coming up on one of the most important games of their 2025-26 season on Sunday, November 9, with a high-profile contest against the reigning champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, on the road. There’s a a reason this is a primetime game. Both the Lions and Eagles are at the top of the NFC, and both teams have reasons they could pull off the win.
The Eagles have a leg up going into Sunday’s game, with a 7-2 record and quarterback Jalen Hurts ready to be his mobile self. But, the Lions aren’t far behind them, with a 6-3 record and their own stats-glowing quarterback Jared Goff.
So, the Lions will have to be in top form against the Eagles, and that includes being as healthy as possible. Injuries have plagued the Lions in the past, but right now, their injury report could certainly be worse. But, the Lions were given a scare on Wednesday, November 14, when defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was included a DNP due to an elbow injury on the Lions’ practice report. So, how is he doing now?
An injured Hutchinson would be terrible for the Detroit Lions against the Philadelphia Eagles. The team needs him to put pressure on Hurts and sack him as much as possible. When Hutchinson showed up on the team’s injury report, he came out and said that he would be good to go on Sunday, but it’s still disconcerting to see that he has an elbow injury, even if it’s small.
Well, on Thursday, November 13, Hutchinson returned to full practice participation. That’s a reason to truly breathe a sigh of relief. Now, things aren’t perfect. Tight end Sam LaPorta, cornerback Terrion Arnold and safety Kerby Joseph missed practice for the second consecutive day on Thursday. But, at least Hutchinson is back.
Hutchinson has notched 18 total tackles, 17 quarterback hits, 57 pressures and 38 hurries in the 2025-26 season alone, according to NFL research. He’s also recorded seven sacks and four forced fumbles, the latter figure which is the highest in the NFL.
According to research from Pro Football Focus, Hutchinson has also notched a 91.2 overall grade, which puts him third in the league among 114 graded edge defenders, and a 92.3 pass-rush grade, which is second.
The Eagles have Hurts, but the Lions have Goff, and Jared’s numbers are shining this season. On Wednesday, November 12, the Detroit Lions took to social media to announce Goff’s numbers from this season, and they’re among the best in the league.
According to NFL research, Goff is first in the entire league in completion at 74%. He’s also second in passing touchdowns at 20, passer rating at 117.7 and passing first down at 41.4%, plus fourth in passing touchdowns at 7.3% and fifth in yards per attempt at 8.19.
Sunday’s game will be the first time these teams have played each other since the 2022-23 season, so that brings even more excitement to the contest. The two teams were close to going up each other in last season’s NFC championship game, but the Lions fell to the Washington Commanders in the postseason, before that could happen.
Cleveland, OH – In his latest press conference, Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski couldn’t hide his admiration for Shedeur Sanders, the standout quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes. Stefanski, known for his meticulous attention to detail and strategic approach, took the opportunity to heap praise on Sanders, calling him one of the most impressive young quarterbacks in college football.
“Shedeur Sanders is a special talent,” Stefanski said when asked about the young quarterback’s performance. “Watching him on tape, you can see his poise, his accuracy, and his ability to lead the offense. He’s a guy who has all the tools to succeed at the next level, and I’ve been very impressed with what he’s done so far.”
Sanders, the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in the country since taking the reins as the Buffaloes’ starting quarterback. Known for his strong arm, quick decision-making, and ability to thrive under pressure, Sanders has been drawing attention from NFL scouts and analysts alike.
Stefanski highlighted Sanders’ leadership on the field as one of his most impressive qualities. “What stands out the most about Shedeur is his leadership,” Stefanski continued. “He’s got that calm demeanor, but he plays with a fire that’s contagious to his teammates. When you watch him lead his offense, you can see that he’s not just a talented player, but a guy who brings the best out of those around him.”
Sanders has been making waves in college football, leading the Buffaloes to a successful season with several high-profile victories. His ability to execute under pressure, especially in key moments, has earned him widespread recognition and praise from coaches across the country, including Stefanski.
While Stefanski and the Browns are focused on their own preparation for the upcoming game, his respect for Sanders was clear. “I have no doubt that Shedeur will continue to get better as he matures and gains more experience,” Stefanski concluded. “He’s a young quarterback to keep an eye on, and I expect him to have a great future in this game.”
As Sanders continues to impress college football fans with his performances, the praise from an established NFL coach like Stefanski only adds to the growing buzz surrounding his potential. Whether it’s his leadership, arm strength, or his ability to perform in clutch situations, Shedeur Sanders is certainly a name to watch as he looks toward the next chapter of his career.