Dave Birkett

Detroit Free Press

Bell missed his third straight day of practice%2C but did some light running on the field

Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell has been cleared for physical activity but has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills (1 p.m., Fox).

Bell offered little in the way of insight when asked about his status after practice today. He said he feels "good" but wouldn't specify which hurdles he has left to clear as he follows NFL return-to-play protocol after suffering a brain injury last week.

Bell missed his third straight day of practice today but was on the field watching and doing some light running for the first time this week.

With Bell out, Reggie Bush will get the bulk of the backfield work against the NFL's No. 3-ranked rush defense. George Winn will be the backup.

The Lions (3-1) have struggled running the ball early in games this year and had just 88 yards on 27 carries against the New York Jets last week. Bell left that game in the fourth quarter with a concussion.

The Bills (2-2) allow just 71.5 yards rushing per game and 2.9 yards per carry.

Contact Dave Birkett: dbirkett@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @davebirkett.