Football is back in Detroit. The Detroit Lions square off against the New York Giants at Ford Field in Detroit Friday night for the preseason opener. While it is unlikely that the starters will be playing much, the spotlight will shine brightly on the backups, each vying for critical roles and coveted roster spots. The clash should be a quality litmus test for both teams. Here’s everything you need to tune in to Friday night’s showdown.

Positional Battles Heat Up Ford Field

Wide Receivers in Spotlight: The wide receiver room is buzzing. While Amon-Ra St. Brown, Marvin Jones Jr., Josh Reynolds, and Khalif Raymond have secured their spots, all eyes will be on Antoine Green and Dylan Drummond. Can they seize the moment, especially with Jameson Williams facing a six-game suspension?
Running Back Rundown: While David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs have secured their spots, others like Jermar Jefferson, Craig Reynolds, undrafted Mohamed Ibrahim, and the newly signed Benny Snell are all racing to find a place in the lineup.
Defensive Line Dominance: Improved depth has ignited fierce competition on the defensive line. Rookies and seasoned players alike, such as Brodric Martin, Josh Paschal, Benito Jones, Levi Onwuzurike, Chris Smith, and Christian Covington, are all in the hunt for more playing time.
Linebacker Landscape: Behind sure-starter Alex Anzalone, the young guns are looking to plant their flag. Rookie Jack Campbell aims to claim the weak-side linebacker slot, but Derrick Barnes and Malcolm Rodriguez, the latter an all-rookie last season, are not far behind.
Securing the Secondary: After a complete makeover this offseason, players like Ifeatu Melifonwu, Will Harris, Chase Lucas, Starling Thomas, Khalil Dorsey, and Steven Gilmore are all looking to cement their roles.
Jameson Williams Factor: Williams is a unique case. Suspended for the initial six games, he’s expeced to be featured prominently in preseason. Fans are eager to gauge his form and readiness. Dan Campbell expects to “douse” Williams with reps.

How to Watch

Date: August 11, 2023
Time: 7:00 p.m. EST
Primary TV Broadcast: Fox-2 Detroit
Play-By-Play: Jason Ross Jr.
Color Analyst: Devin Gardner
Sideline Reporter: Dannie Rogers
Primary Radio Broadcast: 97.1 The Ticket
Play-By-Play: Dan Miller
Color Analyst: Lomas Brown
Sideline Reporter: T.J. Lang

For fans seeking a different perspective, the Lions have a special treat with an alternate broadcast. Hosted by Peter Schrager from “Good Morning Football,” this stream can be accessed on detroitlions.com or the Detroit Lions Mobile App.

Guests Scheduled on the Alternate Broadcast:

Brad Holmes – EVP and GM, Detroit Lions
Chris Spielman – Special Assistant to the President/CEO, Detroit Lions
Darren McCarty – Four-time Stanley Cup Champion
Gary Danielson – Former Lions QB and current CBS Sports Analyst
Glover Quin and Golden Tate – Former Lions standouts
Jalen Rose – NBA veteran and Detroit native
Kirk Gibson – Detroit Tigers legend
Dave Birkett – Detroit Lions beat writer for the Detroit Free Press
Stacey Dales – NFL Network reporter

Lions and Giants Preseason History

When it comes to preseason matchups, the Lions and Giants are no strangers. Their history spans 16 games dating back to 1949, with Detroit leading the series 10-5-1.

Friday night offers a glimpse into the Lions’ emerging talent. With so much at stake for many players, the evening should be action-packed.

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For more from our Detroit Lions beat writer, Matt Broder, check him out on Twitter here: @mattbro21

Contact: Broder@woodwardsports.com

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