Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger injured his pecs

Longtime Cincinnati Bengals nemesis Ben Roethlisberger may not play on Sunday. As of now, his status for the Week 3 game is unknown, but Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has noted that Big Ben is suffering from a chest injury.

Roethlisberger threw for 297 yards, 1 interception and a touchdown against the Raiders. He had only 188 yards and one touchdown against the Bills. It has been a tough start to the season for the Pittsburgh offense as first-round draft pick Najee Harris has yet to make his presence felt.

That said, it can be even more difficult to get back on track. Ed Bouchette noted Roethlisberger’s pectoral injury and also that OLB Alex Highsmith suffers from a groin injury.

The Steelers have just suffered a loss to the Las Vegas Raiders in which they allowed three field goals in the first half but only scored one touchdown. The Steelers are averaging 20 points per game.

While Big Ben hasn’t played at his height, the Steelers would be in a much worse position without their veteran quarterback. Mason Rudolph or former Washington QB Dwayne Haskins should take over and replace him if he runs out of time.

The Steelers were able to host the Raiders in Week 2 at Heinz Field after hitting the road in Week 1. They will host Cincinnati again in Week 3.

The Bengals’ defensive line has been a much improved unit, so one should expect them to put enormous pressure on the hard-to-attack veteran. Bringing him down is easier said than done.

For now, Roethlisberger is expected to play as he finished the game against the Raiders, having thrown 40 times. He currently sits 12th in overtaking attempts.