"If Marion Barber was as elusive on the field as he is with the media, maybe his body wouldn't take such a beating.

But the Bears running back won't alter his bruising style. It's how he made his name in the league. It's what made him attractive to the Bears coaching staff as a short-yardage back.

"Well, we think he can start with that, in between the tackles,'' coach Lovie Smith said of Barber. "Just a good running back added to the mix. We're, of course, trying to get the running game going a little bit better. Having a guy like that should help in spot duty, so I know he is excited.''

Barber is set to make his Bears debut Sunday after straining his left calf muscle in the third exhibition against the Titans on Aug. 27. He attempted to make a comeback in Week 2 but still felt soreness.

Whether he feels 100 percent now remains unknown as Barber declined multiple interview requests this week. He was well enough to participate fully in practice all week for the first time since the regular season began.

"He has his confidence back, which is one of the most important things when you pull something like that,'' running backs coach Tim Spencer said of Barber. "He looked good in practice. I think he'll be ready to go.''"