Scott Mitchell sprains his ankle when it bends under Colts' lineman David Warren on this sack. (Ernest Coleman photo) | ZOOM |

        Backup quarterback Scott Mitchell will be out six weeks after spraining his left ankle when sacked on the Bengals' last offensive play of their 23-17 preseason loss to the Colts Thursday night. That leaves starter Jon Kitna as the team's only healthy quarterback.

        Third-stringer Akili Smith, who has been out with tendinitis in his right shoulder, didn't play for the second consecutive game but said he will be ready for the Sept.9 opener against New England.

        Smith threw short passes before the game and said he needs to improve his distance throwing.

        Coach Dick LeBeau said the Bengals might inquire about re-signing quarterback Scott Covington, who was waived Monday.

        Second-year linebacker Armegis Spearman tore a pectoral muscle and will be out for the opener. Defensive tackle Tony Williams suffered a bruised shoulder but is probable.

Bengals lose Mitchell for six weeks Colts 23, Bengals 17 Replacement referees get mixed reviews Bengals run up rushing stats Bengals-Colts statistics Bengals' Barndt charged with DUI

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