The Detroit Lions are looking to advance to the NFC Championship Game for just the second time in franchise history.
Standing in their way are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Wide receiver Kalif Raymond was not present during the portion of Thursday’s practice open to the media.
Center Frank Ragnow, who was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday’s walkthrough, returned to practice.
Outside linebacker James Houston was officially activated, while Julian Okwara was waived.
The Lions and the Buccaneers are both different from when they met in Week 6.
Among others, nickel cornerback Brian Branch was inactive for that game. Now, the rookie defender is back in action and expected to play a key role in Sunday’s game.
“You know what, listen, we have a lot of respect for Will (Harris), but we know what Branch brings to the table.
Thing is, he’s tough, he’s gritty, very knowledgable,” Glenn explained. “He does a good job at that nickel spot of understanding exactly how he has to disguise to put himself in a position to go make plays.”
Branch missed two games earlier in the season, but has put together a strong rookie campaign.
In 15 games, he recorded 74 tackles, seven tackles for loss and three interceptions.
With the added intensity of Sunday’s game, Glenn is excited to see what the rookie can do under the bright lights.
“We’re looking forward to him being out there this game, and he’s looking forward to being out there this game, because he hates missing games and he wants to play against this team because of the nature of this game and who they have,” Glenn said.
“So, his ability to cover receivers is pretty damn good, also. Listen, he ran this whatever time at the combine.
When you watch him cover guys, you can never tell that because he’s sticky.”
