Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith underwent thumb ...

Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith underwent thumb surgery and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, although the team refuses to discuss a timetable.

Regardless, the time has arrived for rookie Jahvid Best to step up. While he's been slowed by turf toe injuries in recent weeks, Best has to provide some spark to Detroit's running game. Not every play is going to be perfectly blocked so he has to make somebody miss and break a tackle.

Veteran Maurice Morris will likely step into the No. 2 role with Aaron Brown becoming active. While Morris gives the coaching staff a level of comfort in terms of consistency and pass protection, it's time for Best to become an all-around back.

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