**Detroit Lions Gear Up for Thanksgiving Showdown Against Chicago Bears: Key Battles to Watch**

As the clock ticks down to their annual Thanksgiving Day game, the Detroit Lions are racing against time—not just to prepare but also to heal up. The Lions are set to welcome the Chicago Bears to Ford Field in a contest dripping with history and critical matchups.

**Malcolm Rodriguez vs. D'Andre Swift**

One of the pivotal battles to keep an eye on will be between Malcolm Rodriguez and former Lion D'Andre Swift. Rodriguez has stepped up as the starting WILL linebacker following an injury to Alex Anzalone, and his performance against the Colts showcased his potential. Excelling with seven solo tackles and earning high defensive grades, Rodriguez has been a linchpin in Detroit's strengthened run defense, which notably limited Jonathan Taylor to a mere 35 rushing yards.

Swift, now donning a Bears jersey, arrives in Detroit amid one of the best seasons of his career. Known for his dual-threat capability, Swift poses a significant challenge for Rodriguez and the Lions' defense. Detroit's linebackers will need to be sharp in sealing the outside edge and making clean tackles to contain their former teammate.

**Dan Skipper vs. Montez Sweat**

Another critical matchup will unfold in the trenches, where Dan Skipper is expected to replace the likely absent Taylor Decker at left tackle. Skipper, a reliable yet under-the-radar player, will face Chicago's Montez Sweat, who leads his team in sacks and tackles for loss.

Despite being relatively new to the Bears after a trade from the Commanders, Sweat has found his stride. With his imposing 6-foot-6, 262-pound frame, he presents a formidable challenge for Skipper. While Skipper has only yielded one sack this season, the number of pressures allowed on Jared Goff suggests that this will be a crucial test for him.

**Detroit's Secondary vs. Chicago's Receivers**

On the defensive side, Detroit's cornerbacks are set to face their own challenges. With starter Carlton Davis out, the Lions' secondary initially struggled against the Colts, particularly with deep ball coverage. However, the return of Emmanuel Moseley and rookie Terrion Arnold could bolster their lineup significantly.

This enhancement comes at an opportune moment as the Bears bring a trio of dangerous receivers to Ford Field. Keenan Allen, a six-time Pro Bowler, D.J. Moore, a first-round talent, and rookie sensation Rome Odunze have collectively amassed over 1,500 yards this season. Detroit's depth at cornerback will be put to the test, and the role of Moseley may prove crucial in this regard.

As Thanksgiving approaches, the Detroit Lions are bracing for a game that promises intense competition and numerous key matchups against long-time foes, the Chicago Bears. All eyes will be on Ford Field to see how these vital contests unfold.