Status report for @Steelers: Ike (shoulder, knee), Troy (knee) are doubtful; Matt Spaeth (elbow) is questionable
— Bob Labriola (@BobLabriola) December 19, 2014
The Pittsburgh Steelers are putting the final touches on their game plans for the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday at Heinz Field, and those plans most likely won't involve veterans Ike Taylor and Troy Polamalu.
Polamalu's absence will carry more significance considering Taylor hasn't played the past two weeks, and his play when returning from a broken arm is likely a significant reason he is continuing to be held out of game action.
Polamalu's run-stopping ability against Jamaal Charles and Alex Smith will certainly be missed, and Will Allen will be the player expected to fill that role. The Steelers could turn to second year safety Shamarko Thomas to help in running situations, but the coaching staff has made it clear the entire season he is not expected to have a significant role on the defense.
Matt Spaeth is dealing with a hyper-extended elbow and is listed as questionable on the final injury report. All other players who appear on the injury report are all listed as probable and are likely to play Sunday.
The Steelers host the Chiefs at Heinz Field Sunday with a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff.