IRVING, Texas -- Perhaps it’s a good thing that the Lions (2-8) don’t have time to reflect on Sunday’s 35-19 loss to the Cowboys at Dallas.

There were glimpses, but the same old woes prevailed -- ineffective running game, too many penalties and costly missed tackles. And this was against a Dallas team that is just 3-7.

Here’s the thing, looking forward the view does not improve. The Lions have a short turn-around to prepare for their nationally televised Thanksgiving game against the New England Patriots (8-2).

Tom Brady and the Patriots edged out the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. Brady finished with a 123.1 quarterback rating after completing 19 of 25 passes for 186 yards with a pair of touchdowns and zero interceptions.

The Pats use a balanced offensive attack with 168 yards rushing and 178 yards passing.

This will be one of the biggest challenges yet this season for the battered and bruised Lions.

Shaun Hill is highly likely to be the starter again. Jahvid Best carried only three times against the Cowboys. His turf toes (he has them on both feet) are not improving. Perhaps they should just sit him. But it’s hard without Kevin Smith who is done for the season due to thumb surgery.

The only thing the Lions have going for them is they are playing in the friendly confines of Ford Field. Still it could be extremely rough. Maybe we’ll see them dig deep. But this has not been the same team since the loss to the Jets. They talk about bouncing back, but they have to prove it. Thursday would be a good time to start.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)