Safety Troy Polamalu did not practice today for the second straight time as the Steelers prepare to play the unbeaten Minnesota Vikings Sunday.

Polamalu, who returned to play for the first time last Sunday since the opening game, declined to predict whether he will make his second straight start.

"I don't think it benefits anybody to not practice, but I think regarding injuries it's a benefit."

Polamalu's MCL in his left knee was sprained in the opener, causing him to miss four straight games. He injured it again Sunday playing against the Browns when his knee struck the ground, but coach Mike Tomlin indicated that would be no problem.

"I feel pretty good right now,'' Polamalu said.

Normally, players who do not practice by Friday do not play on Sunday for the Steelers.

Ed Bouchette's blog on the Steelers and Gerry Dulac's Steelers chats are featured exclusively on PG+, a members-only web site from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Our introduction to PG+ gives you all the details.