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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.

Kelly let Pike run the offense as the starter in practice last week so he could get up to speed and be ready to start.

"It's going to be Tony Pike, unless something happens during practice unexpected," Kelly said. "The six weeks since the injury has allowed the bone to heal properly to the point that we've minimized the risk of putting him out there. He's excited by the chance to play on Friday."

If he comes through the game without incident, Pike is expected to start on Dec. 5 in Pittsburgh, a game that could determine the Big East champion.

Kelly said Pike has gained confidence as the arm has healed - but it won't get its biggest test until Pike is hit for the first time against Illinois.

"Obviously he understands the game's not played in a vacuum," Kelly said. "It's not flag football. He's going to get hit.

"I'm sure he's going to have some moments on Friday where he goes, 'Oh, OK, here it comes,' and he's got to take care of himself."

Pike broke the same forearm last season and had a plate and six screws installed. He returned after missing two games but experienced numbness in his left hand a few games later, forcing Kelly to turn to a backup.

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