Zack Bowman will start at cornerback Sunday ahead of Nathan Vasher.

The 6-1, 193-pound Bowman has a size advantage on the 5-10, 187-pound Vasher, and he was playing better in training camp before a hamstring injury sidelined him for three weeks and kept him out of all but the final preseason game. Vasher was victimized by Greg Jennings for the game-winning touchdown catch with 1:11 remaining. Vasher started the season opener, but Bowman played in a rotation with him and Charles Tillman in the first half.

"I thought he played well in the limited time he had the other day," coach Lovie Smith said of Bowman. "We've been bringing him back from an injury. He's done a lot of good things when he's had an opportunity to play."

Although he's played hardly at all, Bowman has been an impact player. Last year as a rookie, in his first and only game, Bowman recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown and intercepted a pass to ensure the 48-41 victory over the Vikings. The pick came after he suffered a season-ending torn biceps. Bowman was removed from the game but then returned after other players were hurt.

As a junior at Nebraska, Bowman was considered a potential first-round draft pick until two knee surgeries stalled his career. The Bears drafted him in the fifth round in 2008.

"I'm excited," Bowman said. "It's a good opportunity. I've been blessed with it, and I'm just going to try to help this team win."

Nick Roach will start in place of Pisa Tinoisamoa at strong-side linebacker after playing all but the first two snaps there against the Packers, following Tinoisamoa's knee injury. Jamar Williams will also get some time there in relief of Roach.