The Pittsburgh Steelers might be banged up at the running back position, but the New York Giants are just as banged up at their linebacker position.
The Giants Friday injury report is now out and it shows linebacker Chase Blackburn (hamstring) and linebacker Jacquian Williams (knee) as both being out for the game Sunday. With Blackburn out, Boston College product Mark Herzlich is expected to start at middle linebacker in his place.
The injuries at linebacker do not stop there for the Giants as strong-side linebacker Keith Rivers (calf) is also listed as doubtful for the game in addition. This means that Mathias Kiwanuka will most likely start the game in his place with Michael Boley manning the weak-side spot. Rivers was able to practice on a limited basis on Friday, but he certainly will not be 100% if he does end up playing.
The Giants defense is ranked 28th in the league against the rush so far this season as they have allowed an average of 4.64 yards per carry. They are also rank 29th in the league in the yards per play allowed stat with a 6.21 average allowed number.
Running back Ahmad Bradshaw (foot), tight end Bear Pascoe (ankle), and safety Kenny Phillips (knee) all showed up as questionable on the Friday injury report. Bradshaw did not practice on Friday, but he is still expected to be able to play come Sunday. Both Pascoe and Phillips were limited on Friday.
Center David Baas (ankle/elbow), safety Antrel Rolle (concussion), wide receiver Victor Cruz (calf) and defensive tackle Rocky Bernard (quad) all practiced fully on Friday and all four players are listed as probable.
