The Steelers are a team looking to rebound after a disappointing 20-3 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, but they know it won't be easy on Saturday against the St. Louis Rams, despite their 2-10 record.
"Record doesn't matter with these last few games," said linebacker James Farrior. "We know it's going to be a tough game, it's a tough opponent. Anybody can beat anybody on a given day. We'll be ready."
Safety Troy Polamalu is of the same mindset, knowing that records mean nothing especially down the stretch.
"We have always taken games one week at a time and this is no different," said Polamalu. "We keep things in perspective and take them one at a time."
Polamalu was asked numerous times during the team's open locker room session if the team was looking past the next two games to the playoffs, but he had no interest in looking ahead.
"The St. Louis Rams are the next game on our schedule," said Polamalu. "That's way too far down the line to think about. We have two games left."
Receiver Emmanuel Sanders has practiced on a limited basis so far this week and said his foot is definitely healing. Sanders still hopes to play against the Rams, but also knows getting healthy comes first.
"The foot is feeling better," said Sanders. "I am still testing it out. I still don't know 100 percent if I am going to go on Saturday. The most important thing is to make sure I am there for the playoffs and 100 percent ready to go. I don't want this injury to be lingering."
Sanders said whether he plays or not could be a game time decision depending on how the foot is feeling.
"I want to be out there 100 percent and not think about injuries and play ball," said Sanders. "That is what I am trying to get back to. I can't wait to get back to 100 percent and play, back with Antonio (Brown) and Mike (Wallace) who are having fun.
"This is a minor setback to a major comeback."
There has been a lot of talk outside of the Steelers organization about Saturday possibly being Hines Ward's last game at Heinz Field. While Ward said he has no intention of calling it quits, his teammates were still asked about the potential and what kind of teammate he is. Polamalu couldn't help but sing Ward's praises.
"He has been a great teammate, one of the best I have ever had," said Polamalu. "He has been our team leader on offense since I have ever been here. He has epitomized everything a Pittsburgh Steelers player has ever been, and at a position you wouldn't expect.
"He has had a lot of success at receiver especially being on a run first team for such a long time."
