Michael Vick

Ben Roethlisberger’s return from a left knee injury sets the stage for a heroic second-half performance, assuming the offense under Michael Vick stands firm.

Roethlisberger’s anterior cruciate ligament is still intact. He’ll likely miss four to six weeks with an MCL sprain and a bone bruise, with a return as early as Nov. 1 against the Bengals in Heinz Field. CBS Sports first reported the MCL injury.

Ben Roethlisberger has said this is the best supporting cast he has ever had, which should mean they can stand on their own without him. Now it’s time to test them, see if they can carry Big Ben while he’s out.

The offensive fireworks won’t light up the sky like they do when Roethlisberger leads the charge, the story said. That could mean a bit of a downgrade for Antonio Brown and the WRs. The writer said the team just wants to "hold on" until Ben returns. That could mean more emphasis on the running game with LeVeon Bell and even DeAngelo Williams. Vick can turn the ball over but has been part of big passing offenses when he was with the Eagles. The Steelers probably want to play things safe if at all possible, especially this week heading into short week with a Thursday night game against the Ravens. Steelers HC Mike Tomlin said via the team's website: "There is no timetable for his return, but Ben is a competitor and we are confident he will do everything in his power to return at the appropriate time."