By Teresa Varley
Steelers.com
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger took part in the team's full practice on Wednesday, despite the fact that he was expected to be limited.
Roethlisberger is still feeling the effects of a sore shoulder he suffered against the Texans, but it's much better than it was a week ago.
"I feel better," said Roethlisberger. "Obviously it's sore. Who in here isn't sore who plays this game? But, it's definitely better and we're making progress."
Roethlisberger was held out of practice last Wednesday and then was limited on Thursday. He returned to practice last Friday before playing against the Browns.
"On Thursday, I took all the snaps and instead of throwing I just went through all the motions and pointed to the guy I would have thrown to," said Roethlisberger. "It's a way to the play, as coach said, in the helmet and it's good to be mentally in there."
The Steelers will need a healthy Roethlisberger on Sunday when they take on the Eagles, a team that is capable of putting points on the board and the Steelers might need to answer.
"With their offense, they're high-powered and quick-striking, so if we can control the ball and move it up and down the field and put points on the board when we get in the red zone, that will be key for us," said Roethlisberger.
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Safety Troy Polamalu was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Cleveland Browns.
Polamalu had a key interception with eight seconds remaining in the first half at the three-yard line, ending the Browns' hopes to get on the board and protecting the Steelers 7-0 lead. Polamalu added four tackles, one for a loss, and two pass defenses.
While Polamalu appreciates the honor, it's not something that he focuses on.
"Throughout the season it's tough to dwell on these honors because the season moves so fast," said Polamalu. "You look at a game and make corrections and move on to the next team. These types of honors go without too much notice from any player because the season is so fast and repetitive every week. You are always moving on."
Polamalu has a knack for making big plays at key times and is always quick to give credit to others for helping him make those plays.
"There is a lot that goes in to somebody making a play," he said. "It's about coaches putting you in the right position, preparing you throughout the week and them helping you take care of body. There are so many factors and the outcome of it is what you see on the field and that is a very small part of it."
Linebacker James Farrior (back), guard Chris Kemoeatu (ankle), and cornerback Deshea Townsend (heel) did not practice on Wednesday but are expected to return to see action this week. Defensive end Brett Keisel (calf) and linebacker Donovan Woods (hamstring) also did not practice. Nose tackle Casey Hampton was limited in practice (groin) and Tomlin gave wide receiver Hines Ward a rest as he did not practice.
