Injuries, injuries, injuries. Thursday's practice had a couple changes from Wednesday's for the Dallas Cowboys. Quarterback Tony Romo was a full participant, a step up from his limited activity the day prior. Romo's ribs aren't healed, however, and for the second consecutive week he will undergo a pre-game pain killing injection to help him fight through the pain.
Rumors that he has asked sore-loser Brian Orakpo to borrow some Midol have yet to be confirmed.
The Cowboys will definitely need the best of Romo to match the offensive firepower that Detroit possesses. Unfortunately, he will still have a short-handed wide receiver corps to throw the ball to.
Miles Austin has already been ruled out, and will have two weeks to get ready for the shootout in New England. Dallas' other starting receiver had a setback, as Dez Bryant didn't participate in Thursday's practice, a day after limited participation.
Quick, someone tell Dez to pour some 'Tussin on it.
With a limited Bryant, Kevin Ogletree will get the opportunity to make up for the numerous mental and route running gaffes that he experienced on Monday night against Washington. Recently re-signed Laurent Robinson will also have his responsibilities increased.
Running back Felix Jones said today that although his shoulder is still not 100% he's "able to do what I need to do." FB Tony Fiammetta missed Thursday's practice with a hamstring injury.
Starting DE Jason Hatcher and K David Buehler have already been ruled out of Sunday's game, as well as CB Orlando Scandrick and LG Derrick Dockery.
As for Sunday's opponent, the Lions have a few injuries of their own. WR Calvin Johnson was a limited participant with his ankle injury, but is expected to play on it like he did last week. LB Justin Durant (concussion), DT Nick Fairley (foot) and T Jason Fox (Foot) all missed Thursday's session.
For more up to date Cowboys discussion, make sure you check out Blogging The Boys, SB Nation's Dallas Cowboys blog.