The Pittsburgh Steelers were handed a huge blow after it was confirmed cornerback Ike Taylor would miss his first game in six years after fracturing his right ankle, ruling him out of action for at least two weeks.
Taylor will not play in Steelers' game against San Diego Sunday. He had played 135 consecutive games.
"You can say a lot of things about Ike, and a lot of positive things, but probably the thing that sticks out the most is his durability and availability," the Associated Press quoted coach Mike Tomlin as saying. "This guy hasn't missed practices, let alone football games, since I've been here."
Tomlin feels that Cortez Allen and Curtis Brown can fill in the large void left by Taylor's absence.
"They're both talented young guys who are continuing to improve and prove that the stage isn't too big for them," Tomlin added. "Obviously, we need them to answer the bell as we continue to push into a territory that we haven't been in."
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who had a shoulder injury and a dislocated rib, may make his return Dec. 12.
"Ben is our quarterback and if he's capable of playing then we're going to play him," Tomlin said. "But we appreciate the efforts of Charlie (Batch) and all the other men that step up when given an opportunity due to injury."
Roethlisberger has gained strength in his arm and he seems fit to make a comeback.
"Seven days does wonders for injuries," Tomlin said.
Tomlin is aware of the fact that there is not much resemblance in the current squad and the team he had seven years ago, when the Steelers clinched their final four regular season games, before adding four playoff wins to win their fifth Super Bowl.
"I do think our team has some unique characteristics that are kind of born out of unique circumstances or situations," he said. "Quite frankly, it's always 20-20 looking back at it.
"If we're able to put together a run and win necessary games and get some momentum, then you can say it was unique.
"If we don't, then you can say it was irrelevant."
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