CINCINNATI (AP) -X-rays show Tony Pike's non-passing forearm is healing nicely, so he'll be able to practice with No. 4 Cincinnati this week wearing a new splint instead of his bulky cast.

Pike had a protective plate in his left forearm damaged during a game on Oct. 15 and had it replaced. He's missed the last two games while the arm mends, with sophomore Zach Collaros leading the Bearcats (8-0) to wins over Louisville and Syracuse.

Pike had an exam Monday that found the forearm is healing well. Coach Brian Kelly said a special splint was ordered that will allow him to do more things in practice this week. Collaros is likely to start on Saturday at home against Connecticut (4-4).