Right side of Bears O-line a game-time decision

Updated: November 16, 2011 10:30AM

The continuity that every offensive line coach strives for continues to become more and more elusive for Mike Tice.

Right guard Chris Spencer’s broken right hand and Frank Omiyale’s struggles have left Tice and coach Lovie Smith in a situation where the right side of their offensive line against the Lions on Monday night will be a game-time decision.

Spencer or Lance Louis will start at right guard. And Louis or Omiyale will start at right tackle.

‘‘We’ll have five guys out there; I promise you that,’’ Tice said with a laugh after practice Thursday. ‘‘I won’t be one of them, so we’ve got a chance.’’

Spencer, who practiced with a cast on his hand, said he’s trying to get the swelling down but expects to be ready to play. Louis played well against the Lions’ Ndamukong Suh at right guard in the opener last season and played well at tackle in place of Omiyale in the second half against the Panthers.

Injury update

Right tackle Gabe Carimi (knee) and wide receiver Earl Bennett (chest) did not practice and are not expected to play. But safety Chris Harris (hamstring) had limited participation in practice and has not been ruled out.

Spencer, tight end Matt Spaeth (calf) and cornerback Charles Tillman (hip) also had limited participation in practice.

Paying the price

Safety Brandon Meriweather said he was fined $20,000 for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith on Sunday. Asked if he was surprised he was fined for the hit that didn’t draw a penalty, Meriweather said, ‘‘I can’t say yes, and I can’t say no. Anytime you get a good hit, there’s a chance you could get fined for it. I wish I would have gone for the pick instead.’’

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