Polamalu sits out Steelers' practice, expected to miss Thursday's game

[mesaSteeler]

Polamalu sits out Steelers' practice, expected to miss Thursday's game
By Scott Brown, PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Last updated: 4:45 pm
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pitt.../s_714784.html

Steelers strong safety Troy Polamalu did not practice today, all but assuring that he will not play Thursday night against the visiting Carolina Panthers.

Polamalu, who is expected to miss a second consecutive game because of a lower leg injury, watched the last half hour of practice today and will be a spectator when the Steelers try to improve to 11-4 Thursday at Heinz Field.

Ryan Mundy, a Woodland Hills High graduate, is again expected to start in place of Polamalu.

Tight end Heath Miller, who has missed the last two games because of post-concussion symptoms, is on track to return to action after practicing today. His availability for the game against the Panthers is contingent on Miller not experiencing exercise-induced headaches prior to Thursday.

“Hopefully all goes well and we’ll be ready to roll,” Miller said.

There apparently won’t be any changes on the offensive line after left tackle Jonathan Scott got pulled for Trai Essex late in the Steelers’ 22-17 loss to the New York Jets last Sunday.

“I’m anticipating everything will be the same as it has been,” said Essex, who has played guard, tackle and even some tight end this season. “It’s been kind of crazy this year but whatever position they want me to play I’ll play.”