Pittsburgh Steelers running back Willie Parker will miss Sunday's showdown against the San Diego Chargers with a case of turf toe. Second-year back Rashard Mendenhall will start in Parker's place and get another chance to display why he was a first-round selection in the 2008 draft. Parker was hoping to play, but he didn't practice all week and and he hasn't participated in any team drills since first injuring his toe during the team's week three game against the Cincinnati Bengals.Fantasy Analysis:
No matter how long Mendenhall stays in head coach Mike Tomlin's doghouse, I think he is a decent play this week. The Chargers will be without their starting nose tackle, Jamal Williams, for the rest of the season. It's also obvious that Shawne Merriman is playing hurt. But don't get too excited. Mewelde Moore will steal some touches and time on the field in third-down and passing situations. Mendenhall didn't get one offensive touch against the Bengals as punishment for a poor week of practice and not having full knowledge of the playbook. Maybe he's learned a lesson now? We'll see if that punishment has motivated him to be his best against the Chargers. As for Parker, check back next week for his status in the team's contest at Detroit, but know that turf toe injuries do tend to linger for a long period of time.read more
