Mike Pouncey illness likely to keep him out of Dolphins game against Panthers

Miami Dolphins center Mike Pouncey missed last week's contest against the San Diego Chargers with a case of food poisoning.  The illness was so bad, doctors considered having to remove the veteran's gallbladder.  Pouncey returned to the team this week, but was unable to practice, and is officially listed as doubtful on the team's injury report.

The Miami Herald's Armando Salguero reported today that a source with the Dolphins has told him, Pouncey will not play tomorrow against the Carolina Panthers.

Really, it's not a surprise, given the lack of practice time for Pouncey.  While he has said he only lost about five pounds during the illness, Pouncey has looked much slimmer, and may simply not be able to sustain himself at the level required for a physical, NFL world.

Without Pouncey in the game, the team will likely look to Nate Garner to again start at center, with undrafted rookie Sam Brenner playing left guard.

More from The Phinsider:

• Phinsider 2014 QB Watch: Derek Carr
• Fan Guide to non-Miami Dolphins Teams to Root for (Week 12)
• Panthers vs Dolphins injury report
• Panthers vs Dolphins NFL Week 12 Game Coverage
• Week 12: Carolina Panthers vs Miami Dolphins Preview and Predictions