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Detroit Lions vs. Buffalo Bills: Five storylines to watch

Five things to watch for during the Detroit Lions' final preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

Leon Halip/Getty Images

The final game of the preseason is notoriously the most boring of them all. However, with several roster spots still up for grabs at the bottom of the depth chart, this game has enormous consequences for some Detroit Lions players. Here are five storylines to be following on Thursday night.

1. Zach Zenner vs. George Winn: Round 4

The Zach Zenner hype train is on overload and is showing no signs of stopping. George Winn, seemingly a lock at the start of training camp, now feels like the underdog to make the final 53-man roster. Still, a lot can change in one game, and if Winn impresses and Zenner falters, the Lions are going to have a tough choice on their hands.

2. Can Joseph Fauria hold off new Lions tight end Tim Wright?

After the Lions traded for Tim Wright earlier in the week, it quickly became apparent that Fauria may be expendable. However, Fauria's release is not a foregone conclusion. Wright barely played at all for the Buccaneers in their last preseason game, and if the Lions don't like what they see out of him, they may cut him at no real cost. Both players will be fighting for their jobs.

3. Fullback fight!

Emil Igwenagu and Michael Burton have been going toe-to-toe for the starting fullback job. The Lions haven't given any indication on who is leading in this battle, although Burton is listed as the first-string back on the Lions depth chart. Burton's rookie status may win him the starting job overall, but Igwenagu has made a legitimate case for a roster spot, too.

4. Who will step up on the defensive line?

The Lions are desperately seeking some depth on the defensive line but there haven't been any standout players thus far. Phillp Hunt may have done enough to earn a roster spot, but who else? Gabe Wright? Jermelle Cudjo? Larry Webster?

5. Kellen Moore's final chance?

Although the Lions released fourth-string quarterback Garrett Gilbert, some have suggested the Lions may roll with two quarterbacks anyways. Moore will likely get, at least, a full half of playing time today to convince the Lions to use a roster spot on him. If he fails to impress, it's been nice having you, Boise State fans.

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