Minneapolis, MN -- (Sports Network) - Detroit Lions quarterback Jon Kitna sat out Sunday's game at Minnesota because of a bad back and Dan Orlovsky made the start under center for the first time in his career.

Kitna, who had made 36 consecutive starts, did not practice all week and didn't make the trip to Minneapolis.

Kitna had to leave last Sunday's 34-7 loss to Chicago because of back spasms. Dan Orlovsky replaced the veteran signal-caller and connected on 13-of-23 passes for 97 yards and an interception in defeat.

Kitna has completed 68-of-120 passes for 758 yards with five touchdowns and five interceptions for the winless Lions (0-4) this season.

Drew Stanton became the backup, and Drew Henson, just signed to the active roster, was designated as the third quarterback.

Also out for the Lions is right guard Stephen Peterman with a hand injury.