Anderson played 12 seasons with the Bengals. He was a former Pro Bowler who once played in 116 straight games.

Then, last season foot and knee injuries limited him to seven games. He came to training camp this year with hopes of proving he was healthy and could continue to play well.

But at the end of training camp, the Bengals offered him a restructured contract worth less than he one he had. He said no, and his contract was terminated.

Anderson thought about retiring, but was contacted by the Ravens, who had injury problems on the offensive line.

He signed with Baltimore the Friday before the season began. He was inactive for the season-opening game against Cincinnati, but has since started six games at right tackle.

More important, the 33-year-old Anderson -- who referred to himself as an "old guy who looks real, real big in purple" -- has been a fountain of knowledge for the team's young offensive line.

"I think the main thing is that he's brought to us that experience," Ravens tackle Adam Terry said. "Just the knowledge that he brings, that he can impart to us. It's like having a third coach."

Asked if he goes to Anderson for advice Terry said, "You'd be dumb not to."

"He's done a great job with leadership, no question," Baltimore coach John Harbaugh said. "With a young offensive line, he's really schooled those guys up. I'm sure glad we have him."

Anderson was stunned when his contract was terminated. He was in Atlanta when Cincinnati officials called him and said he had to make a decision that day. He declined the new contract.

"At that point, I wanted to leave," the 6-foot-5, 340-pounder said. "They made a good offer to me, but I wanted to leave and see something different."

He was bitter at first because some people in the organization said he could no longer play the game at a high level.

"Once you are a certain age, they start to question things (about players)," he said. "In their minds, they made the right decision."

He's glad the Ravens contacted him.

"There were certain teams around the league that I envied and Baltimore was one of them," he said. "We were always chasing those guys."

It was rough at first. Anderson had to meet and work with new players and a new coach, offensive line coach Jon Matsko. He had to show them he could still play.

He wasn't sure how he would be greeted.

"I was kind of down at first, but seeing their youthful spirit, that revived me," he said. "They really pulled me through it."

Anderson and Matsko have developed a strong relationship.

Anderson saw his first game action the second week of the season against Cleveland. When Terry was injured in the fourth game against Tennessee, the veteran saw a lot of playing time.

He started the next week for the injured Terry and has started every game at right tackle since, except for the Giants game, which he missed with an ankle injury.

Now, on Sunday he returns to Cincinnati having proven his value with another franchise.

"Once we land and I see the city and come from the opposite end of the stadium," he said, "I'm sure there will be a rush of emotions."

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