Three Patriots starters out today vs. Bengals

Early news late this morning, in advance of the 4:15 p.m. kickoff between the Bengals and Patriots.

Three New England starters -- including starting cornerback Ellis Hobbs and free safety Eugene Wilson -- are out because of injuries. Also out is starting right offensive tackle Ryan O'Callaghan.

At right corner, where Hobbs starts, Chad Scott is listed as the backup on the depth chart. At free safety, James Sanders is the backup. A nd Nick Kaczur is the backup right tackle.

The Bengals already figure to have a decisive edge with their pass offense against the Patriots secondary. All the Bengals offensive line needs to do is give quarterback Carson Palmer some time, and it could be a long day for the New England defense.