Saturday, November 1, 2003
Notes: Dillon, Bennett upgraded
Running backs probable for Sunday
By Mark Curnutte
The Cincinnati Enquirer
PHOENIX - The Bengals' offensive backfield got some good news Friday when tailbacks Corey Dillon and Brandon Bennett were upgraded to probable for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Dillon (groin) and Bennett (back) had been listed as questionable throughout the week, but coach Marvin Lewis made the decision to upgrade them before Friday morning's practice.
Dillon is expected to start against the Cardinals. In his last game against Arizona, on Dec. 3, 2000, Dillon ran for 216 yards on 35 carries. It's one of three career 200-yard games for Dillon and his third-best individual game.
Two injuries have limited Dillon to 62 carries and 203 yards in 2003.
Bennett is a key third-down back. Rudi Johnson, who rushed for 101 yards against Seattle, is No. 2 on the depth chart.
Safety Marquand Manuel, a key special teams player, remained questionable with a hamstring injury. Guard Matt O'Dwyer (foot) remained doubtful. Tight end Reggie Kelly (foot) is out and will miss his first start. Tony Stewart is expected to go in Kelly's spot.
THREE-PEAT: A victory Sunday would give the Bengals their first three-game winning streak since Nov. 28-Dec. 12, 1999. Jeff Blake, filling in for injured rookie Akili Smith, was the Bengals' quarterback.
Blake will start for Arizona, his third stop since leaving the Bengals.
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E-mail mcurnutte@enquirer.com
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