Riley Reiff will be game-time decision for Lions

Allen Park — Riley Reiff is questionable and will be a game-time decision against the Bears on Thursday. If Reiff can't play, undrafted rookie Cornelius Lucas will likely make his first start at left tackle.

Running back Reggie Bush is also questionable, but he's expected to play after missing the past two games with a lingering ankle injury.

Lucas filled in for Reiff on Sunday after Reiff suffered a knee injury on the first play, and even though Lucas has played right tackle at times this year with LaAdrian Waddle suffering multiple injuries, left tackle is his natural position. He played left tackle in college at Kansas State and is left-handed, so he had to make adjustments this year to play on the right side.

In the six games Lucas played right tackle, he split time with Garrett Reynolds, but if he starts Thursday, the spot will be his barring any major errors. Against the Patriots, Lucas allowed a sack and had two penalties but otherwise showed promise.

"It would definitely give my mother something to look forward to on Thanksgiving, or the whole family really," Lucas said. "But at the same time, it really is another game. I'm just here to help my team out."

If Reiff can't play, Reynolds would be the backup tackle, and Rodney Austin — who was promoted from the practice squad Tuesday — would be a reserve option at the interior positions. Reynolds can also play guard if necessary.

Lucas said he prepared this week as if he will start.

"We'll see when game time comes around," he said. "We'll see how he's feeling and go from there."

Losing Reiff would be costly for the Lions, who have already given up 33 sacks this season. The Bears are tied for 12th in the NFL with 27 sacks, and the Lions will also be without right guard Larry Warford (knee). Rookie third-round pick Travis Swanson will start for the third straight game in Warford's place.

As expected, defensive tackle Nick Fairley (knee) will miss his fourth game in a row.

Wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle), defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (elbow), safety James Ihedigbo (knee), safety Glover Quin (back), defensive end George Johnson (foot), cornerback Rashean Mathis (ankle) and linebacker Ashlee Palmer (concussion) are probable.

jkatzenstein@detroitnews.com

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