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Vontaze Burfict to play vs Cardinals; Andre Smith, Tyler Eifert out

Tonight we'll see the debut of Geno Atkins, who's expected to start and play for several series.

Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports

The Cincinnati Bengals will once again be down several starters in a preseason game. This time, they'll be without offensive tackle Andre Smith, cornerback Darqueze Dennard, cornerback Lavelle Westbrooks, linebacker JK Schaffer, QB Tyler Wilson wide receiver Dane Sanzenbacher, tight end Tyler Eifert, running back Rex Burkhead and running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis.

Surprisingly, linebacker Vontaze Burfict will play and start, despite missing much of the past week with a stomach virus. Green-Ellis is believed to be dealing with the same virus. Cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick is believed to have had it as well, though he's playing tonight.

With Green-Ellis and Burkhead out, backups Cedric Peerman and James Wilder Jr. figure to get the most action they've gotten this preseason tonight vs. Arizona. Wilder is still trying to secure a spot on the practice squad, though there is still a small chance he cracks the 53-man roster. Peerman is already probably in.

As for Eifert being out, Jermaine Gresham starters at TE while Ryan Hewitt will start at H-back.

Also, tonight will see the debut of Geno Atkins, who's expected to start and play for several series.

Other pregame reading:

  • Five Bengals To Watch vs the Arizona Cardinals
  • The dead Carson Palmer storyline in Cincinnati
  • Bengals owner Mike Brown being treated for minor medical condition
  • Cardinals vs Bengals: Game Time, Online Stream, TV Schedule, Radio and more
  • Behind Enemy Lines: Q&A with Arizona Cardinals Blogger
  • Bengals All-Pro Geno Atkins to play vs. Arizona Cardinals
  • Bengals QB Jason Campbell Optimistic Against Arizona Cardinals
  • Why Cobi Hamilton Needs to Impress Against the Arizona Cardinals