The Steelers have not confirmed a report from Profootball talk that Marvel Smith will undergo another surgery on his back which will end his season. Smith is exploring all his options right now. Smith’s back injury has been much worse than the Steelers coaching staff has made it out to me.
The San Diego Chargers will throw early and often against the Steelers. The Chargers will look to attack Steelers cornerback William Gay who will make his first NFL start. Fernando Bryant is vying to be the Steelers #3 cornerback this week.
LaMarr Woodley remains a bit limited with his calf injury but did practice today. Woodley should play in Sunday’s game.
Ben Roethlisberger, Willie Parker, and Hines Ward all practiced today. Ben has thrown the ball well the past two days in practice.

Darren Dreger of TSN believes Sid‚Äôs scoring slump can be attributed to Crosby‚Äôs stick. Dreger’s column from a few days ago has caused some intrigue in the Penguins locker room. To me this is a non-issue. Crosby’s a playmaker regardless of what kind of stick he uses.
Michel Therrien would like to get Paul Bissonnette in the lineup sometime in the next 2-3 games. Bissonnette did play defense in today’s morning skate.
Cleveland Indians pitcher Cliff Lee who was nearly dealt to the Pirates last winter has won the AL Cy Young Award.
Speaking of the Pirates a source tells me an interesting rumor coming out of the GM meetings last week is the Pirates are among a group of teams believed to be interested in pitcher Carl Pavano. The Marlins, Rangers, Rockies and Blue Jays have also been linked to Pavano.