Hampton, Starks should return to lineup for Steelers

[stillers4me]

By Scott Brown, PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Wednesday, September 22, 2010


» Nose tackle Casey Hampton and left tackle Max Starks are on course to return to the starting lineup Sunday when the Steelers visit the Buccaneers. Hampton didn't play last Sunday against the Titans because of a hamstring injury. Starks was sidelined by a sprained ankle. Hampton, Tomlin said yesterday, "has looked really good in terms of getting himself ready to go this week." Starks, he added, is expected to participate fully in practice today..................

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pitt.../s_700642.html

[GBMelBlount]

Even if Starks does not experience any setbacks this week, the Steelers could be without one of their starting offensive linemen at Tampa Bay. Right guard Trai Essex has a sprained left ankle and is questionable for the 1 p.m. game. Essex wore a protective boot on the injured ankle yesterday at the Steelers' practice facility.

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pitt.../s_700642.html

I never thought I'd be so happy to hear Starks was likely starting.

If Essex is out, hopefully our bench press boy (legursky) can capably fill in.

[HometownGal]

I thought Hoke did a pretty good job of stepping in for Big Snack, but it sure will be good to have the big bad boy back. As for Starks - he has his issues but he's the best we have at that position, imho, and it's never a bad thing to go into a game with most of your starters healthy.

[SteelMember]

Yes. For how good Hampton is at his job, Hoke has always been a dependable backup. However, there is a bit more of a dropoff in quality when Starks is out. It would be a great boost to possibly have them both back in action.