McCarron, Smith among Bengals not expected to play vs. NYG

In addition to defensive end Michael Johnson, who injured his knee Aug. 2, right tackle Andre Smith also was among the starters who have been announced as “not expected to play” prior to kickoff of tonight's preseason opener against the New York Giants. Backup quarterback AJ McCarron also is not expected to play due to an upper body injury he would not specify, which is something I wrote about earlier this week. A surprise name on tonight's expected inactive list is Mike Nugent, although the team may just be playing it safe given that kickers don't really need to get comfortable with a playbook or get used to contact. Tom Obarski, an undrafted rookie from Concordia State who kicked field goals of 59 and 56 yards in college, will handle the kicking duties for the Bengals tonight. Cornerback Brandon Ghee (hamstring) and guard Trey Hopkins (undisclosed) will not play due to injury. Wallace Gilberry is expected to start for Johnson at right defensive end, and Eric Winston is expected to start for Smith at right tackle.