ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The chances of Maurice Jones-Drew missing Sunday's home opener for the Oakland Raiders took another step toward reality Thursday when he again was not seen at practice.

The starting running back, who has a hand injury, missed Wednesday's practice and was not seen on the field during the 30-minute window that is open to the media. Coach Dennis Allen has said he is day-to-day.

If Jones-Drew doesn't play Sunday against the Houston Texans, veteran Darren McFadden would start. He would be backed up by the promising Latavius Murray.

Also, linebacker Kaluka Maiava wasn't on the field for the second straight day. He was out Wednesday with an illness.

Meanwhile, Sunday's game is sold out and will be broadcast on local television.