Spitz misses practice again

Center Jason Spitz didn't return to practice Thursday as he'd been scheduled to, which probably means Scott Wells will start at center this week.Spitz has a lower-back injury, and coach Mike McCarthy had been extremely encouraged by Spitz's progress after his good workout last Friday. But Spitz has had something of a setback this week and did not practice Thursday. Wells has played well enough in Spitz's place that it was unclear which player would start Sunday even if Spitz practiced Thursday and Friday. Spitz's continued problems makes it likely Wells will start regardless of Spitz's availability.Wells returned to practice Thursday after missing Wednesday's workout for personal reasons.Left tackle Chad Clifton (ankle) took part in only some individual work in practice. He's expected to attempt to do team drills Friday, but rookie Josh Lang might start in his place regardless of Clifton's availability.Right tackle Mark Tauscher had his first full...