Culpepper to start for Lions

Nov 12, 2008 - 10:00 PM ALLEN PARK, Michigan (Ticker) -- Daunte Culpepper will start at quarterback for the Detroit Lions in Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers.

Culpepper, who was signed to a two-year deal on November 4, completed 5-of-10 attempts for 104 yards and an interception before giving way to Drew Stanton in last weekend's 38-14 loss to Jacksonville.

After the game, coach Rod Marinelli would not commit to a starter. But on Wednesday, he said Culpepper would get the nod.

"I think he will have a chance to make some real good strides this week," Marinelli said. "The next game is up, it's just one game at a time for him. It was good that he did play because he got the game speed and just getting back into the rhythm of it all.

"I think this week he has come in and is getting more comfortable, the timing is getting a little bit better and knowing the players. I see him just getting better and better as the season goes on."

A two-time Pro Bowler with the Minnesota Vikings, Culpepper, 31, had announced his retirement in September after unsuccessfully trying to find work throughout the offseason. He spent last year with the Oakland Raiders and the 2006 campaign with the Miami Dolphins.