Multiple sources are reporting Steelers C Maurkice Pouncey will practice on a limited basis today, as he recovers from an illness that caused him to lose 12 pounds.
Pouncey said he put two pounds back on, but is still around 290 – about 10 pounds below his ideal playing weight. He also says he will “definitely” play, per Scott Brown of the Tribune-Review.
Knowing that, Bengals defensive tackles Domata Peko, Geno Atkins and Pat Sims have to be excited. Pouncey’s style is based on his quickness, but his aggression in finishing off blocks will be compromised at that light of a weight. It’s still a few days until they play, but Pouncey will have to do what most of us dream of doing – work hard at putting on weight – between now and kickoff.
Facing a defensive front as tough as Cincinnati’s is challenging enough, but being that far under weight has to play in the minds of Steelers coach Mike Tomlin. Back-up C Doug Legursky is listed at 315 pounds, but isn’t the mauler Pouncey is in the run game.
If Pouncey does play, expect Legursky to shift over to left guard, replacing Chris Kemoeatu.
Source: Behind the Steel Curtain
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