Michael Carter is out with an injury as the team navigates a short week, with trainers weighing rehab versus surgery. A sharper practice week highlighted a focus on accountability, ball security, and tackling intensity. Williams and Montgomery anchor the rushing plans, while the coach stresses action behind the emphasis and leans on his staff for in-season adjustments.

Turnover prevention and special-teams discipline sit at the core of the gameplan, with an emphasis on sustaining drive success and wrapping up plays. The Lions’ leadership underscores trust in Wilkes, Tanner, and the staff, supporting a sturdy, injury-adaptive approach as they prepare for a desperate, equally hungry opponent.