Though not unexpected, offensive starters and stars Santonio Holmes and Willie Parker were among the Steelers who were scratched from tonight's exhibition game with Buffalo due to injuries.

Holmes, with a sore back, and Parker, with a achy hamstring, were earlier deemed by Coach Mike Tomlin as questionable to play tonight after missing the full week of practice. Limas Sweed started at receiver for Holmes, although the game opened with a two-tight-end set, and Rashard Mendenhall started at halfback for Parker.

Also missing were: No. 3 quarterback Dennis Dixon (shoulder), fullback Frank Summers (hamstring), tight end Sean McHugh (knee), guard Darnell Stapleton (knee) and defensive linemen Nick Eason (calf) and Steve McLendon (elbow).

Jeff Reed (leg) was dressed in case of emergency, but Piotr Czech was expected to handle all duties normally handled by the Steelers' place kicker.