January 8, 2012
ANALYSIS
Earlier in the week it was believed that tackle Trai Essex would start, but with center Maurkice Pouncey (ankle) out, left guard Doug Legursky will slide over to center and Kemoeatu will fill Legursky's spot. This does not bode well for for the Steelers, as Kemoeatu is one of the least-disciplined offensive linemen in the league in terms of false start penalties and blown assignments. Pittsburgh's offense is already less than 100 percent with a hobbled Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) and no Rashard Mendenhall (torn ACL). The Steelers may survive their game against Denver, but will need to be closer to full strength if they are to get back to the Superbowl.