CINCINNATI (AP) Barring a problem in practice, quarterback Tony Pike will start for fifth-ranked Cincinnati against Illinois on Friday.
Coach Brian Kelly said Monday that the Bearcats' bye week helped Pike get ready to start his first game since damaging a plate in his non-throwing arm during a win at South Florida on Oct. 15. Pike needed to have the plate replaced and doctors made a foot-long incision for the surgery.
Sophomore backup Zach Collaros started the next four games and helped the Bearcats (10-0) remain unbeaten. Pike played briefly in a 24-21 win over West Virginia on Nov. 13, taking four snaps and throwing two touchdown passes while wearing a protective brace on the left forearm. (MORE)
