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Steelers' Roethlisberger wants to play Sunday
Scott Brown is the Steelers beat writer. He can be reached via e-mail. Also check out Brown's blog
"I always want to play," Roethlisberger said Wednesday.
There are several reasons for Roethlisberger not to play in the 4:15 p.m. game. He is nursing a sprained right ankle, and the Steelers probably won't gain much more than season bragging rights if they beat their bitter rivals from Baltimore. The Steelers have already won the AFC North. They would need to beat Baltimore and for Oakland to upset San Diego on Sunday to move up from the No. 4 to No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs. Roethlisberger participated in practice on a limited basis yesterday, and backup Charlie Batch primarily worked with the first-team offense.
• Offensive tackle Marvel Smith (back), linebacker Clint Kriewaldt (neck) and wide receiver Willie Reid (shoulder) did not practice yesterday. In addition to Roethlisberger, linebacker Andre Frazier (groin) was limited in practice yesterday. Strong safety Troy Polamalu, who has inflammation in his right knee, said he wants to play Sunday.
• The Steelers' opponents for next season have been set. In addition to six games (home and away) against the three other teams in the AFC North, the Steelers will play the Colts, Cowboys, Chargers, Giants and Texans at Heinz Field. They will play the Patriots, Jaguars, Eagles, Titans and Redskins on the road.
Digits
4 - Consecutive games the Ravens have beaten the Steelers in Baltimore.
