The Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks will close out Week 4 of the NFL season with one of the most anticipated games of the (extended) weekend. The Lions entered the season with Super Bowl aspirations, and that likely hasn’t changed after a somewhat slow start. There’s nothing wrong with a 2-1 record through three games – after all, there are only three undefeated teams left – but Detroit hasn’t quite passed the eye test of a championship team. However, it is still early. Everyone is working on problems.

However, the Seattle Seahawks are one of the undefeated teams and their 3-0 start looks good. Mike Macdonald has turned the Seahawks’ defense around in an instant, although given the quarterbacks they’ve faced (Bo Nix, Jacoby Brissett and Skylar Thompson/Tim Boyle), it’s fair to question how “real” their defensive performance is so far .

For both teams, this Monday night clash will be their biggest test yet, and unfortunately injuries could play a big role for both teams. The Seahawks are missing four key players on their defense, while the Lions are likely missing two players of their own, including All-Pro center Frank Ragnow and possibly safety Brian Branch.

However, injuries are no excuse. The winner of this game will make a huge statement throughout the NFC. And if this is the Detroit Lions, this will be a very nice start to their Week 5.

Come and chat with us about the first two quarters in the comments section below. When halftime comes, go back to the site’s home page and look for the second half open thread.

See you at 8:15pm ET and GO LIONS!