Desperate times call for desperate measures. On the surface, the 2-1 Pittsburgh Steelers may not seem desperate, but look a bit closer and you'll see plenty of reasons for concern. The latest example? Practice-squad offensive tackle Trevis Turner, who's never played in a regular-season game at the NFL level, "went through 'live' hitting in practice," reports Mark Kaboly, which would be "unusual unless [the Steelers] plan to activate him."
Pittsburgh's offensive line has struggled so far this season, and injuries to key players - Jonathan Scott and Doug Legursky are both expected to be out for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans - won't fix things. Scott Brown believes coach Mike Tomlin ought to activate eight offensive linemen against Houston, as going with only seven would be "too risky." The recently-acquired Jamon Meredith is a good bet to dress as well.
The Steelers have averaged just 3.3 yards per carry this season, which places them in a four-way tie for No. 23 in the league. Additionally, opponents have sacked Ben Roethlisberger nine times, eighth in the league.
For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.