Bears' defensive depth facing challenge

Simply put, the Bears' injury situation on defense is disastrous.

Both starting cornerbacks, Nate Vasher (groin) and Charles Tillman (ankle), were unable to practice at all Wednesday, and they were joined on the sideline by defensive tackle Tommie Harris (sprained knee) and linebacker Lance Briggs (hamstring), On offsnse, guard Ruben Brown (ankle) and tackle Fred Miller (knee) sat out.

Furthermore, defensive tackle Darwin Walker (knee), defensive end Adewale Ogunleye (hip) and safety Adam Archuleta (broken hand) were only able to participate in a limited capacity Wednesday, as was backup running back Adrian Peterson (calf).

"Obviously it's not what we want, and it's not what we planned on to start the season," Archuleta said. "But we only have two choices: either to deal with it negatively or roll with it."

Tillman said he expects to play but wasn't very convincing after not practicing. Briggs, and especially Harris and Vasher, appear doubtful at best. If both corners are out, veteran nickel corner Ricky Manning Jr. would start, but the Bears might have no choice but to play rookie corners Trumaine McBride (a seventh-rounder) and Corey Graham (fifth-rounder) in passing situations.

Archuleta said he could play, but he'll be limited. The rash of injuries on defense couldn't come at a worse time, considering the Lions have the No. 1 passing offense in the NFL (345 yards per game) and perhaps the best four-deep set of wide receivers in the NFL.

"They're definitely loaded, and they've been able to put up a lot of yards," Vasher said. "That's the main thing that they want to do is pass the ball. I think we have some guys that can definitely step in and make some plays."