DETROIT -- The Lions were already down a couple starters on defense for Monday Night Football. Then 90 minutes before the game, they officially scratched Brian Branch due to an illness that popped up over the weekend.

Also inactive for the Lions are center Frank Ragnow (pectoral), wide receiver Isaiah Williams and left tackle Giovani Manu. For the Seahawks, its offensive tackle Michael Jerrell, guard Sataoa Laumea, linebacker Jerome Baker, defensive linemen Leonard Williams and Byron Murphy and linebackers Uchenna Nwosu and Boye Mafe.

Despite a neck injury and a concussion suffered last week, the Lions expected Brian Branch to be ready to go for Monday night’s showdown against Seattle. Alas.