Stafford, Johnson, And Smith Among Lions Expected To Play On Sunday

NFL News - November 7th, 2009 - Written by Jimmy

Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz has high hopes of seeing starters WR Calvin Johnson and RB Kevin Smith to return on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.

The Lions (1-6) are hoping to get back two of their star players as they face the Seahawks (2-5). This game appears to be one that the Lions have a chance to win, but to do so, they will most likely need Johnson and Smith.

WR Calvin Johnson has been hampered with a sore knee which caused him to miss the previous two games. Johnson participated in practice all this week and looks to be ready to go. So far this season, Johnson has 22 receptions for 325 yards and 1 touchdown.

RB Kevin Smith is ailing from a shoulder injury which caused him to leave last week's game. Smith was able to participate this week in practice including on Friday which is a good sign. Smith has carried for 393 yards and 1 touchdown on 125 carries this year.

Matt Stafford is expected to get the start again this week despite having a sore right knee. Stafford was limited in practice this week.

With the addition of Johnson and Smith, this will be the first time the Lions have played with Stafford, Johnson, and Smith since the first half of their win against the Washington Redskins.

"Really, the last time they were all healthy together on the field was the first half of the Washington game. Somebody's been limited or somebody's been missing. They are a big part of our offense, a big part of our team." said Jim Schwartz

News of return has done little to affect NFL Betting on this game. When the line opened, the Lions were listed as 9 1/2 point underdogs. Since then, almost every online sportsbook has the game listed at 10 points.

Those interested in wagering can find betting lines available at BookMaker minutes up until the scheduled 4:05pm ET kickoff on Sunday, in Seattle.

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