The Pittsburgh Steelers will be without linebacker James Harrison and safety Troy Polamalu in Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders.
The two defensive standouts, named to a combined total of 12 Pro Bowl appearances, will miss their second consecutive straight game. Harrison, who had surgery on his left knee Aug. 15, has not played yet this season. Polamalu on the other hand missed last week's win over the New York Jets due to a calf injury.
Fortunately for the Steelers, the Raiders aren't exactly an offensive juggernaut. The Raiders averaged 13.5 points through the first two games of the regular season, which includes a 35-13 loss to the Miami Dolphins last week. In Week 2, Pittsburgh dominated the New York Jets, 27-10, without Harrison and Polamalu.
Linebacker Stevenson Sylvester has also been ruled out due to a knee injury.
Ryan Mundy will start in place for Polamalu while Chris Carter will replace Harrison.
The Steelers will also be without running back Rashard Mendenhall as he continues to progress in his rehabilitation from a torn ACL injury.
Steelers' tight end Heath Miller (rib cage soreness) participated in practice on Friday and will be expected to play in Sunday's matchup.
The Steelers (1-1) have a bye week after playing the Raiders (0-2), but they play twice in five days beginning Oct. 7.
