Detroit is hoping that Week 11 brings a win as the face off against the Oakland Raiders. The Lions are trying to get some momentum moving after the big win against the Green Bay Packers. Matthew Stafford found some rhythm against the Packers while big plays secured the win. However, injuries could cause that momentum to falter as Calvin Johnson deals with injuries and could be limited on Sunday.
Johnson has been sitting out of practice for most of the week with an ankle injury. However, he did make his return on Thursday in a limited fashion which is giving some hope for his status in Week 11. Johnson is coming off six catches for 81 yards against the Packers. At this point in the season, Johnson might not be owned by too many people given his numbers have been subpar this year. He has just one 100-yard game to his name this year and while that is not all Johnson's fault, the numbers are not improving. However, facing a weaker secondary in the Raiders, Johnson could be ready to have a big game. Having him healthy will be critical for the Lions.
Golden Tate and Eric Ebron could be set for big games as well considering how generous the Raiders' secondary has been. If the offensive line of Detroit can hold up against Oakland's defensive front, Matthew Stafford can make the passing game a highlight this week. Ebron has become a top tight end in terms of fantasy value while Tate has been inconsistent in terms of targets.
After a big game against the Packers, Ameer Abdullah could be getting more time on the field. Abdullah made a big gain in the special teams against the Packers, but according offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter, Joique Bell will still be the starter. Neither Bell nor Abdullah are making a huge impact on the field this season. Cooter believes that Bell is the more complete back with the higher ceiling.
"He's a productive running back," Cooter said, via MLive.com. "He's productive in the run game. ... Ameer's made some nice runs, Theo (Riddick's) made some really nice runs. All those guys do certain things really well. There are certain run schemes we like with different guys. There are certain run schemes that some guys like better than others. We're always keeping an eye on how many different guys are touching the ball, and you can't always control that. But we're keeping an eye on the whole system, and trying to do what's best for our team to win the game."
Abdullah has yet to find the consistency that Cooter believes Bell has. However, a few more breakout plays like the one against the Packers and that could change.