As the Bengals prepare for their practice on Christmas eve, quarterback Andy Dalton was sent home on Wednesday because he wasn't feeling well. Eww, germs. This is the second time that Dalton has been struck with an illness this season. He came down with something during the Saturday night prior to Cincinnati's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Dalton, who has made 66 consecutive starts (including the postseason), is on pace to reach career lows in yards and touchdowns.

It's unclear if Dalton was sick on Monday night...

Pro bowl wide receiver receiver A.J. Green also sat on Wednesday. Green suffered a bruised bicep, on the play shown above, during Cincinnati's win over the Denver Broncos. Green said that when he suffered the injury his arm went numb to the point that he was afraid that he broke his arm. An MRI showed no structural damage but it's a bit early to determine if he'll play Sunday night in the AFC North Championship.

Also out Wednesday was defensive end Wallace Gilberry and cornerback Terence Newman. Gilberry momentarily left Monday's game with a hamstring injury while Newman has been recovering from an ankle. It's possible that both are dealing with minor issues from their ailments or simply enjoying a little veterans rest.

On the bright side: Linebacker Emmanuel Lamur was back on the field after missing last week's game with a hamstring. Lamur was a limited participant during Saturday's practice, so the weather looks partly sunny (drawing on Joe Reedy and Marvin Lewis vernacular) for Sunday's game against the Steelers.