The Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks 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 probably hasn’t changed, even with a somewhat slow start. There’s nothing alarming about 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. It’s early though. Everyone is busy nodding.

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

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

Yet injuries are no excuse. The winner of this game will make a big statement throughout the NFC. And if that’s the Detroit Lions, it’ll be a really nice way to start their Week 5 bye.

Come hang out with us in the comments section below and chat during the first two quarters. When halftime comes, go back to the front page of the site and look for the open thread of the second half.

See you at 8:15 PM ET, and GO LIONS!