Short stint for starters in Detroit

ORCHARD PARK, NY (WIVB) - "It won't be a lot."  That was Dick Jauron's answer to the question of playing time for his starters.  The Bills conclude the preseason against the Lions at Ralph Wilson Stadium on Thursday.  Traditionally, because its less than two weeks from the season opener, key players don't play much in the final preseason game.  Despite the Bills struggles on offense, that won't change.

Jauron says final determinations about playing time will be made before the game.  So expect to see the Bills starters for one series, but don't expect to see Terrell Owens and others at all.  Any playing battling even minor injuries won't likely play. 

That will leave the playing time to the second and third stringers.  Some of those players, especially at positions like linebacker and receiver, are battling for roster spots.  The roster will be cut from 74 to 53 on Saturday.

Notes:  Chris Kelsay missed Wednesday's practice.  He was with his daughter who was having surgery. He will not play against the Lions....The Bills released linebacker Pat Thomas, cutting the roster down to 74. Thomas was injured for much of training camp...Williamsville native Dan Gronkowski returns to his hometown. He's a backup rookie tight end with the Lions, who caught a TD pass in Detroit's last preseason game.