CINCINNATI (AP) — The Steelers were missing their top two running backs and two offensive linemen Sunday night against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Rashard Mendenhall (Achilles tendon) and Isaac Redman (ankle) were inactive, a setback to the NFL’s 31st-ranked running game. In addition, rookie Mike Adams made his first start at right tackle for Marcus Gilbert (ankle) and Doug Legursky started for center Maurkice Pouncey (knee).
Safety Troy Polamalu (calf) was inactive for the fourth time in five games.
The Bengals also were thin at running back with Brian Leonard active because of bruised ribs. Receiver Armon Binns was out with a sprained ankle, giving Brandon Tate a chance to start. The Bengals gave rookie cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick another game off, recovering from a knee injury over the summer.
