Caldwell Says Bush Will Still Be Starter When He Returns
By Ashley Dunkak
@AshleyDunkak
ALLEN PARK (CBS DETROIT) - Detroit Lions running back Reggie Bush expects to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Lions head coach Jim Caldwell did not hesitate when asked whether he still considers Bush the starter.
"When he gets back," Caldwell said, "absolutely."
Caldwell did not confirm Bush will slide right back into the role he played previously, however.
"Every game's different," Caldwell said. "Every game's just a little bit different. He's got the skill set where he can do a lot of things. The good thing is he's practicing and looks good."
Ankle injuries have plagued Bush this season, causing him to miss five of the last seven games, including three straight. In the limited time he has played, Bush has amassed 191 yards on 53 carries.
The Lions have relied on Joique Bell in Bush's absence, and Bell has delivered consistently. He has racked up 581 yards on 164 carries along with 281 receiving yards on 23 catches.
Detroit's run game ranks among the worst in the league, however, so the Lions can use what help they can get, and offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi said Bush brings a unique aspect to the team's rushing attack.
"He's got that home run threat all the time," Lombardi said. "His speed and explosiveness is something I look forward to having back."