Detroit Lions defensive lineman Za’Darius Smith is set to face his former team, the Minnesota Vikings, on Sunday night in a crucial Week 18 matchup. The winner of this game will earn the NFC top seed and win the NFC North division title.
Smith, who was traded to Detroit in mid-season, has been looking forward to playing against the Vikings all season. He spent one season with the team in 2022 before being released.
“I wasn’t thinking about this situation at the start of the season,” Smith said. “So it’s just a blessing to be in this position, fighting for a first-round bye and the No. 1 seed.”
The Lions have struggled with pass rush since star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson went down with an injury. The Vikings offense has allowed 47 sacks this season, making their defense a prime target for Detroit’s pass rush.
Head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged that Smith’s past experience playing against the Vikings could be an advantage. “You’re going to use some of those” he said.
Smith is eager to play his former team and prove himself. “There’s a couple of things I still know about Minnesota’s guys on the offensive side of the ball,” he said. “Hopefully, I’ll be able to use some of them keys for this game.”
The Lions are looking for impact from Smith against the Vikings as they search for more success in pass rush. The team has struggled since Hutchinson went down, but Smith is determined to make a difference.
Source: https://eu.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2025/01/04/detroit-lions-de-zadarius-smith-promises-lot-of-fire-vs-former-team/77438803007