Anderson practices, will play Sunday

Willie Anderson, one of the most durable and dependable players in the league, will extend his consecutive starts streak to 105 Sunday against the Chargers. The 11th-year right tackle did practice today and will continue to provide a sense of calm to an offensive line looking for its own breakout game. Anderson has been probable all week with a shoulder strain.

"It gives us, obviously, a stability," coach Marvin Lewis said after practice. "When guys get injured, and they don't like to be injured, and guys don't want to play, Willie gets geared up and ready to go. It's an important game, and he doesn't want to miss time."

Tailback Rudi Johnson, who was listed as probable and missed practice Thursday with a thigh injury, returned to practice, Lewis said.

Linebacker Brian Simmons (neck) did not appear to practice. He was not in shoulder pads or his helmet coming off the stadium field.

The Bengals (4-4) have dropped two in a row and four of five. San Diego is 6-2.

"This one, with where we are in the season and with the opponent, it's a big football game for us," Lewis said. "It's a team that we'll be hopefully battling for a playoff spot."