PITTSBURGH ? It is difficult to tell which position on the Steelers is in a more precarious situation for Sunday's showdown against the Bengals?linebacker or wide receiver.
The team will be without second-year wideout Emmanuel Sanders for at least several weeks after he had surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his knee. Sanders, who did not play against the Ravens, should be replaced by veteran Jerricho Cotchery in multi-receiver sets.
Veteran Hines Ward, who sustained concussion-like symptoms in the second quarter against the Ravens and did not return, is expected to play against the Bengals. But he did not practice Wednesday.
If Ward plays, that will minimize the loss of Sanders because Ward is able to play in the slot. When Ward is out of the game, Sanders is the player the team wants to use in the slot because he understands the schemes and opposing defenses so well.
With Ward and Sanders out last week, Cotchery had extensive playing time against the Ravens and caught three passes for 44 yards. Cotchery (swollen knee) did not practice Wednesday, either.
Meanwhile, outside linebacker LaMarr Woodley, who did not play against the Ravens, is expected to miss his second game in a row with a hamstring injury. Woodley did not practice Wednesday.
Inside linebacker James Farrior, who did not dress against the Ravens, could be held out again Sunday because of a calf injury. Farrior, 36, has practiced on a limited basis since last week, but the team wants to be sure he is healthy for the stretch run of the regular season.
Plus, the additional time off will save wear and tear on his body. He has been replaced in the lineup by veteran Larry Foote.
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