Bills RB McGahee a game time decision

Bills coach Dick Jauron was “guardedly optimistic” Willis McGahee will play against Jacksonville this weekend after the running back took part in his first practice in full pads Thursday.

It was McGahee’s second straight day of practice after breaking three ribs in a 24-10 win against Green Bay on Nov. 5. Jauron said McGahee was involved in some contact and described the player as moving well while wearing added padding to protect his ribs.

McGahee, who leads the Bills with 579 yards rushing, is still listed as questionable on the team’s injury report. Jauron cautioned that a decision on whether he’ll play will come down to game time Sunday when the Bills (4-6) host the Jaguars (6-4).

The team’s practice is closed to the media, except for the first 20 minutes when players take part in special teams and individual drills. During that period, McGahee took the first handoff in running drills, an indication he’s back with the starting unit.

Another indication McGahee may be ready to play was backup Anthony Thomas back practicing with the punt-return unit, something he didn’t do when he was filling in as the starter.

Lose some, gain some

Chargers backup running back Michael Turner injured a hamstring and wasn’t able to finish practice. He is listed as day-to-day.

Two other Chargers who didn’t practice appear set to go Sunday when the Chargers host the Oakland Raiders.

Outside linebacker Shaun Phillips was running so well during individual drills that it wasn’t apparent he has a sore calf. And free safety Marlon McCree, who also has a calf injury, said he will practice today.