GEORGETOWN, Ky. — Running back Corey Dillon will start Friday night against the Detroit Lions, Bengals coach Dick LeBeau said before Wednesday night's practice. Dillon originally was not going to play.

        “I want to let Corey go through the pregame process,” LeBeau said. “We'll let him get a few snaps, one or two series.”

        Dillon did not play in the preseason opener in Chicago. Brandon Bennett started at his position.

        FULL HOUSE: The competition to play behind Dillon at running back, next to the quarterback derby, is the tightest in training camp.

        “I thought all of the running backs did well in (Chicago),” LeBeau said of the preseason opener, in which the Bengals rushed for 231 yards.

        Bennett started but was pulled after fumbling.

        Curtis Keaton ran for 87 yards; rookie Rudi Johnson gained 52 yards and Michael Basnight 35.

        Asked what he's looking for in the No.2 running back, LeBeau said, “Same thing we're looking for in No.1 — productivity, ball security, see the sticks move.”

        NO NEWS: Jim Steiner, the agent for Bengals top draft pick Justin Smith, said Wednesday there was nothing new in negotiations between him and the organization.

        The sides are divided by Steiner's demand the Bengals guarantee the second part of Smith's signing bonus, which would be paid in March. The Bengals want nothing to do with guaranteeing any part of any contract.

        INJURY REPORT: Tackle Willie Anderson (ankle) and linebacker Takeo Spikes (ankle) are questionable for the Detroit game. Defensive end Kevin Henry, who made his first appearance at practice this week, is doubtful (elbow).

        Out are tight end Sean Brewer (hamstring) and tight end Marco Battaglia, fullback Nick Williams and tackle Freddie Moore (all knees).

        UP NEXT: The Georgetown College football complex is closed today and Saturday, and the Bengals return to practice Sunday and Monday. But camp is closed to the public both days.

        The camp re-opens to the public Tuesday, when the team practices at 11 a.m. and again from 3-5 p.m.

Warrick, Dugans seek atonement Dillon to start Friday

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