MINNEAPOLIS — The Detroit Lions scratched quarterback Jon Kitna from today's game at Minnesota because of a bad back that ended his personal streak of 36 consecutive games started.

Dan Orlovsky, who relieved Kitna in last week's loss at Chicago, was in the starting lineup for the winless Lions. Drew Stanton became the backup, and Drew Henson — just signed to the active roster — was designated as the third quarterback. Detroit released running back Marcus Thomas to make room for Henson.

Also inactive for the Lions was right guard Stephen Peterman (hand), who was replaced in the starting lineup by Manny Ramirez.

For the Vikings, wide receiver Sidney Rice (knee) was scratched for the second straight week. He has only three catches for 37 yards this season.

Two of Minnesota's top free agent additions were again on the list, too. Fullback Thomas Tapeh, who signed a five-year, $6 million deal including $1.2 million guaranteed, was inactive for the fourth straight week.

Safety Madieu Williams, out since the beginning of training camp because of a nerve problem in his neck, missed another game, though he has been practicing with the team on a limited basis. Williams signed for six years, $33 million and slightly less than $13 million guaranteed.