Whitworth still out, Collins likely to start against Bears

Published Sep. 5, 2013 4:25 p.m. ET

foxsports

The likelihood of Anthony Collins getting his first start for the Bengals in two seasons increased Thursday as left tackle Andrew Whitworth again did not participate in practice as he rehabs from offseason knee surgery. Whitworth practiced only sparingly in training camp and preseason and did not play in any of Cincinnati's four preseason games.

He was one of three Bengals who did not practice, along with cornerback Brandon Ghee (concussion) and guard Mike Pollak (knee).

Collins, a sixth-year player out of Kansas, has played in place of Whitworth throughout the preseason. He last made a start on Dec. 18, 2011, at St. Louis when he replaced an injured Andre Smith at right tackle. He'll be lined up against Bears end defensive end Julius Peppers Sunday.

Peppers, 33, has 111 1/2 career sacks in 170 games since Carolina made him the No. 2 overall pick in 2002.

"He’s still the best," said Collins. "(Shoot), 33, 21, he’s still Julius Peppers. So, you’ve got to man up. Point blank period."

The Bengals have been pleased with Collins' play this preseason. Collins has started 18 games in his career, including the final six games of the 2008 season when Levi Jones was hurt. His first career start came on a Sunday Night Football game at Pittsburgh where his main assignment was to block current teammate James Harrison.

"He’s done a good job," said head coach Marvin Lewis. "That’s why he’s here, to be that big ‘umbrella policy.’ and that’s what he is. He’s responded all the time, and if he goes out there, he’ll have big challenges whenever he goes. That’s offensive tackle in the NFL."

The Bengals have gotten good news from the rest of the roster. Defensive end Carlos Dunlap (concussion) has practiced this week, as has cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick (concussion), tight end Tyler Eifert (forearm), Smith (knee). Defensive tackle Devon Still (knee) had full participation on Thursday after being limited on Wednesday.

Chicago has no one listed on its injury report for the second straight day.