As the Detroit Lions gear up for their first preseason clash of 2024, the excitement is palpable. On Thursday, August 8th, at 7 p.m. ET, the Lions will take on the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This game marks the beginning of what promises to be an exhilarating season for the Lions, a team with championship ambitions following their best season since 1991.
Detroit Lions vs New York Giants: Where to Catch the Game
For fans eager to tune in, here’s how you can catch all the action:
- TV Channel: Fox 2 in Detroit (WJBK)
- Streaming Live: NFL+
- Radio: WXYT-FM (97.1) in Detroit
This game will be broadcast across the state on the Lions TV Network and the Lions radio network, with 97.1 The Ticket as the flagship station in metro Detroit. Former Lions wide receiver Golden Tate will be joining the broadcast team as an analyst, bringing his unique perspective and experience to the commentary.
Preseason Preparations: Joint Practices and Intensity
The Lions have been preparing for this game with joint practices at the Giants’ facility, where the intensity has been off the charts. The practices, held on Monday and Tuesday, saw physical play and even a few scuffles, including a notable altercation between Kerby Joseph and Malik Nabers. The heated nature of these practices led to both teams being fined $200,000 by the NFL, highlighting the fierce competition and desire to win.
Unfortunately, these intense practices also resulted in some injuries. Terrion Arnold, the Lions’ rookie first-round cornerback, was cleared from concussion protocol after a collision with a Giants offensive lineman. However, cornerback Emmanuel Moseley suffered a torn pectoral muscle and is out indefinitely.
What to Watch: Key Position Battles
With the Lions having championship goals, the preseason is crucial for evaluating key positions. Let’s dive into some of the battles that will be in the spotlight:
Backup Quarterback
With starter Jared Goff not expected to play, all eyes will be on Hendon Hooker, the Lions’ 2023 third-round pick. Hooker is looking to prove himself after missing his rookie season due to a knee injury and dislocating his ring finger during spring practice. Also in the mix is Nate Sudfeld, who has outperformed Hooker in training camp thus far. Sudfeld, a 30-year-old veteran, is recovering from a knee injury that kept him out last season. The battle for the backup quarterback spot is critical, especially for a team with high aspirations.
Kicker
The Lions’ kicker situation is another area to watch. Jake Bates, who shone in the United Football League with the Michigan Panthers, is now the Lions’ go-to kicker after starter Michael Badgley was sidelined with an injury. Bates has shown both promise and inconsistency, recently missing seven kicks in practice. This game will be his first NFL action, and fans will be eager to see if he can deliver under pressure.
The Road Ahead
While it’s just the preseason, the stakes feel high. The Lions are entering the 2024 season with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, building on last year’s successes. As they face off against the Giants, fans will get their first glimpse of how this team is shaping up and which players are stepping up in key roles.
So, whether you’re watching on TV, streaming live, or tuning in via radio, this is one preseason game you won’t want to miss. The Detroit Lions are back, and they’re ready to roar into the new season with a vengeance.