Team Infidel
Forum Spin Doctor
Associated Press
PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu received a concussion during the first quarter Sunday against New Orleans and did not return to the game. Polamalu, an All-Pro safety last season, was hurt during a Saints touchdown drive that cut Pittsburgh's lead to 14-7.
He was examined by doctors on the Steelers' sideline and, while he was not taken immediately to the locker room, remained on the bench for New Orleans' next possession, with Tyrone Carter taking his place. At one point, after being examined by doctors, Polamalu leaned sideways and nearly tumbled off the bench.
Later in the first half, the Steelers lost another starting defensive back, cornerback Deshea Townsend, with a concussion and an ankle injury.
With two starters out, the Steelers played backups Anthony Madison, Bryant McFadden and Anthony Smith in their nickel and dime alignments that use five or six defensive backs.