Lions vs. Bears Week 13 Scouting Report: Turkey Day Troubles

The Detroit Lions approach their annual Thanksgiving game in the midst of a brutal slump. Will the holiday bring their first divisional win of the season?

Losing four straight games and seven of their last eight has many of the Detroit Lions‘ followers questioning the team’s direction and leadership. Perhaps a timeless Motown tradition will bring them a modicum of enjoyment before they sit down to their turkey and mashed potatoes.

The Lions host their yearly Thanksgiving Day game this Thursday when the Chicago Bears come to town, in a game that many hoped would be much more significant prior to the season. After winning four straight from 2013-2016, the Lions have dropped their last two turkey day events, including 2018’s 23-16 defeat to the Bears. Chicago also defeated the Lions earlier in Week 10 this year at Soldier Field, 20-13.

The Bears haven’t been able to build on last year’s divisional title in head coach Matt Nagy’s second year at the helm, and at 5-6, are all but out of the playoff race in a highly competitive NFC. The Lions are also reeling and could be without several key players once again due to injuries.

Lions head coach Matt Patricia will be under heavy scrutiny for the remainder of 2019, and he could be hard-pressed to even match last year’s dismal six-win campaign. A poor showing on national television in prime time this week could be a fate-sealing blow.

So what do the Lions need to do to stop the bleeding and win their first game on Thanksgiving since 2016? Here, and each week, we’ll scout each team’s offense, defense, and special teams units, how they match up against each other and offer two players to watch from each squad.