Harrison says he'll play vs. Ravens

By Mike Bires mbires@timesonline.com

PITTSBURGH - Maybe it’s because the season opener is just six days away. Maybe it’s because it’s Steelers vs. Ravens. For whatever reason, James Harrison has proclaimed himself physically able to do his part Sunday.

“I’m good,” he said Monday after practice. “I’m ready to go. What time do we play?”

When reminded that kickoff at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore is 1 p.m., the Steelers’ star outside linebacker said, “I’ll be there. To be honest with you, I’m not worried about my back.”

http://www.timesonline.com/sports/local_sports/steelers-harrison-says-he-ll-play-vs-ravens/article_dd19353f-a947-54c5-a048-c84518c2cebe.html

I don't think a beast like Harrison is going to willfully step aside for a game against the Ravens. He'd have to be carried out in a body bag for him to miss it.

That said, I'm still concerned about his back and level of current play. I hope the rotate him early and often to protect him.

Did anyone, any Steelers fan, think it would be any different?

I'm sure there are thousands of ratbird fans wishing he would take a seat, along with Troy, but alas, the defense is in tact and Flacco is the target!

BGSU A Dub wrote:

Buddha Bus wrote:

I hope the rotate him early and often to protect him.

Same here. While this is a big game, it's not a BIG game. We have a long season ahead and I would hate to see him injured after week 1 from pushing it too hard.

Like Truck, I'd be surprised if he didn't play. But I hope it's the smart thing to do. I tend to agree with you, Dubs ... this isn't a must-win game. I'd rather lose this game and get a healthy Harrison for the rest of the season than have him go out there and make it worse and either lose him for multiple games or be slowed down all season by a nagging injury.

Wallace108 wrote:

I tend to agree with you, Dubs

I think he will still put up a solid game, just maybe not what we are used to. You can't wave a steak in front of a hungry dog (irregardless if he's injured) and expect him not to at least get a few bites of it.

Flacco will be put on his back at least once by Harrison.