Nov 25, 2012; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tackle Andrew Whitworth (77) talks to umpire Paul King (121) during the second half against the Oakland Raiders at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals defeated the Raiders 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati Bengals left guard Andrew Whitworth did not practice Thursday after suffering a concussion in Wednesday’s practice.
Due to the NFL’s concussion protocol, Whitworth has little time to pass the necessary tests to be ready for Sunday’s game against the Vikings, per Josh Alper of NBC Sports.
Whitworth, who recently made the switch from left tackle to left guard, is the leader of a very good O-line unit for the Bengals. There has been some shuffling in the lineup since guard Clint Boling was placed on IR with a torn ACL, yet the line has played well since Whitworth made the shift.
With the Bengals in the midst of the AFC playoff race, this injury could have huge implications in the North division. A loss this week, and the team may find themselves in a win or go home game versus the Ravens in Week 17. However, with two wins, the team can claim their first divisional crown since 2009.
Fortunately for the Bengals, their final two games are at home where they are undefeated this year, thanks to markedly better play from QB Andy Dalton at Paul Brown Stadium. But as a QB who needs a clean pocket, Dalton’s play will suffer if Whitworth is unable to pass the concussion tests and play Sunday.