Smith practices

All Pro receiver Steve Smith missed the Panthers' first two games. The Bucs probably won't be as lucky.

Smith practiced Thursday for the first time in several weeks but still is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay at Raymond James Stadium. Cornerback Ken Lucas, who also is listed as questionable, returned to practice.

Panthers coach John Fox said Smith is still day-to-day, but he appears to be intent on playing Sunday. A series of hamstring injuries prevented from playing in the preseason or in losses to Atlanta and Minnesota.

"You hold your breath, but he looked like he made it through pretty good,'' Fox said. "He looked good, the things he did on the practice field today. So we'll see how he looks and feels tomorrow.''

Smith wasn't making any predicitions. "'It felt good, it felt like yesterday,'' Smith said. ""I did everything I did (Wednesday) but I did it with the team and with the defenders.

"I don't think it's anybody's call but mine. Not the fans, not the media, nobody but mine. When it's all said and done, if I screw my body up, they aren't going to be there.''