DENVER -- Three defensive starters for the Steelers were scratched for tonight's game against the Denver Broncos: Safety Ryan Clark, defensive end Travis Kirschke and linebacker Lawrence Timmons, all for health reasons.

In a bit of a surprise, coach Mike Tomlin decided to dress only three defensive ends, starters Nick Eason and Brett Keisel and rookie backup Ziggy Hood. Rookie Sunny Harris, the only other end on the roster, was inactive. Backup nose tackle Chris Hoke practiced some at defensive end last week and could play there if needed.

The other inactives for the Steelers are guard Kraig urbik, tackle Tony Hills and wide receiver Shaun McDonald. Wide receiver Limas Sweed, who did not dress the past two games in favor of McDonald, will play tonight.

Among the Denver's inactives are two starters, defensive end Ryan McBean and offensive tackle Ryan Harris.

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