The young sophomore who has not lost a regular season game yet may have to miss this weeks game against the Houston Texans to injury. Ben Roethlisberger was downgraded to questionable on the team's injury report after he suffered a bruised knee bone.

Roethlisberger didn't practice Wednesday and was limited Thursday.

"He worked a little bit, but not as much as I hoped he would," coach Bill Cowher said. "There's not really any kind of setback. He does have a bone bruise and he has just not responded as quickly as I had hoped and his status is day to day."

Roethlisberger only threw 11 passes against Tennessee in Week 1, but was effective. He should have another good game against the Houston Texans this week if he plays. However, since the Texans may not be viewed as strong compared to Pittsburgh, the Steelers may rest him.

If Roethlisberger sits out, Tommy Maddox would get the start. Last year, Maddox was 2-1 as a starter for the Steelers.

"The good thing is I don't think there's anything this league can dish out that I haven't seen before," Maddox said. "I'll be well prepared. I prepare every game like I'm going to start. If they need me to go in there, I'll be ready to go in there and help the team win."