Julius Peppers licking his chops as Andrew Whitworth looks unlikely against Chicago Bears

Nov 18, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth (77) blocks Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tyson Jackson (94) in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Cincinnati won the game 28-6. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jay Morrison also believes Whitworth is unlikely to play Sunday vs. the Bears:

RT @StevenWMatthews: odds of Whit playing Sunday? // Looking highly unlikely.
— Jay Morrison (@ByJayMorrison) September 2, 2013

RT @StevenWMatthews: Collins will get the start at LT then? // Correct. Julius Peppers awaits
— Jay Morrison (@ByJayMorrison) September 2, 2013

That’s right: All-Pro defensive end Julius Peppers could be getting a treat in Week 1 in not having to face Whitworth, who’s consistently been among the league’s best pass-blocking tackles over the past four years.

The Bengals do have one of the better backup tackles you’ll find in Anthony Collins, but you can’t overstate Whitworth’s importance for not only another playoff season, but a team hoping to make it all the way to the Super Bowl this year.

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