The Cincinnati Bengals had one of the biggest luxuries an NFL team can ask for 16 weeks of the season. Offensive line continuity.

But when they take on the Buffalo Bills on one of the most anticipated games in Monday Night Football history, they'll experience their first game of the season without it.

The Bengals lost La'el Collins for the season following an ACL tear for the right tackle suffered on last weekend's game in New England. Collins also suffered an MCL tear.

Now, Cincinnati will be forced to play with a new face up front. The biggest remaining question is who that face will be.

Many would've expected the Bengals to replace Collins with swing tackle Hakeem Adeniji but the team is leaving the door open for a potential surprise in the lineup come next Monday.

Specifically, Joe Burrow stated confidence in "Zay" at right tackle. Many quickly put two and two together to realize the Bengals quarterback was talking about Isaiah Prince, who started 19 games for the team last year including the playoffs.

One of the biggest reasons the Bengals are on a 7-0 roll is the team's pass protection. Burrow's confidence in his offensive line is at the highest it's ever been since arriving at the NFL and it's clear why. Those guys are playing good football in the trenches.

But there's a saying in football that claims that an offensive line is only as good as its worst offensive lineman. Getting a backup right tackle in the mix will be a tough challenge for the Bengals. Even more so as he'll likely face Bills DE Greg Rousseau, who's done a great job making up for Von Miller's absence.

"Isaiah (Prince) is in the mix," Bengals head coach Zac Taylor told reporters on Thursday. "We have several guys who can fill that role for us."

Taylor didn't confirm who's starting on Monday in an effort to keep his cards close to his chest.

Adeniji and Prince each have strengths but it's clear none is on Collins' level.

I think it's the power aspect. Adeniji is a smaller OT and a bit robotic.
If they start Prince, I think it's because they'd rather power at that spot. Rather you go around the RT and not through them. https://t.co/XIVNgeixYy

— Goodberry (@JoeGoodberry) December 29, 2022

The Bengals' offense has been able to make up for key absences at wide receiver, tight end, and running back throughout the season. But they haven't had to replace a lineman yet.

If the trend continues, they'll have an answer for La'el Collins' absence. However, it won't be easy against one of the best defensive fronts in football.

Featured image via Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports