Alex Anzalone has strong message for anyone doubting Lion’s defense
The Detroit Lions’ defense has been one of the NFL’s top-performing units this season, ranking in the top ten for both points allowed (20.8 per game) and rushing yards allowed (97.0 per game). Despite their solid performance throughout most of the year, the defense has faced recent struggles. Over the past four games, they have allowed over 31 points in three of those contests. Injuries to key defensive players have further complicated matters, leading some to question whether the Lions’ defense can remain strong enough to carry them through the playoffs and potentially to a Super Bowl title.
In response to the criticism, linebacker and team captain Alex Anzalone has delivered a powerful message. Anzalone dismissed the doubters, calling the notion that the Lions’ defense isn’t good enough for a Super Bowl run “b*******.” The 30-year-old remains confident in his team’s abilities, expressing complete faith in their capability to perform at a high level when it matters most. His words emphasize his belief that the defense can rise to the occasion, despite recent challenges.
Anzalone, who has been sidelined with a broken forearm since Week 11, is nearing a return to the field. He was placed on Injured Reserve after the injury but was activated on Wednesday and participated fully in Thursday’s practice. While the veteran linebacker is eager to return, he acknowledged that he may not be ready to play in Week 18 when the Lions face the Minnesota Vikings. Anzalone revealed that he is still evaluating how his arm feels after six weeks of recovery, weighing the risks of playing early versus waiting longer to ensure he’s fully healed.
The decision to return is not something Anzalone is taking lightly. He explained that he must consider whether he would be comfortable missing a potential Super Bowl appearance if he were to return too soon and risk further injury. Anzalone stressed that his main focus is ensuring he is 100% ready before stepping back onto the field, even if it means delaying his return for another week or two.
While the injuries have caused some concern, Anzalone’s confidence in his defense and his own recovery is clear. The Lions’ defense may have faced setbacks, but with key players like Anzalone soon returning, the unit is determined to prove the doubters wrong and show that they are more than capable of helping the team achieve its Super Bowl aspirations.
