DETROIT — The Lions will be thin at cornerback against the Giants today with starters Chris Houston (toe) and Rashean Mathis (illness) inactive for today’s game against the Giants.

Jonte Green will start at right cornerback for Mathis with Bill Bentley starting at left cornerback for Houston. Expect to see Don Carey at nickel. Green also started on Monday night.

Rookie cornerback Darius Slay, who was listed as doubtful on Friday, is active even though he hasn’t practiced since Dec. 6 knee surgery.

Houston, who has had an inconsistent season, practiced all week on a limited basis. Mathis’ absence is key. Jim Schwartz said on Friday Mathis had contagious flu/cold symptoms.

Calvin Johnson (knee) had been listed as questionable, but looked fine in pre-game warmups.

Tight end Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) was listed as out on Friday’s injury report.

Other Lions’ inactives:  Running back Mikel Leshoure, guard Leroy Harris, guard Rodney Austin and quarterback Kellen Moore.

Inactives for Giants: WR Victor Cruz, DE Jason Pierre-Paul, RB Peyton Hillis, QB Ryan Nassib, S Cooper Taylor, LB Allen Bradford and T David Diehl

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