The San Diego Chargers have a long list of injuries heading into Sunday's home game against Baltimore.
The wobbly Chargers (4-6) are in dire need of a victory to keep their slim playoff hopes alive after losing two straight games and five of six.
"Obviously, we are playing one of the better teams in the league," coach Norv Turner said Wednesday. "They are a balanced team that is very good on defense. We have a lot to prepare for and we're excited about returning home."
If they are going to upset the powerful Ravens (8-2) they'll likely need a boost from some backups, particularly on the left side of the offensive line.
Left tackle Jared Gaither (groin) didn't practice Wednesday and his track record suggests he's a long shot to heal in time to face the team that drafted him. If Gaither can't go, the task of helping stop the Ravens' versatile pass rush falls on undrafted rookie Michael Harris.
Left guard Tyronne Green, another key member of the Chargers' offensive line, didn't work either, sidelined by a hamstring injury. If Green can't play, veteran left guard Rex Hadnot would get his first start of the season.
"Michael Harris is one of the two guys on the left and he is healthy and playing," Turner said. "He is learning; it's been quite an experience for him and us as he played and made progress. It is a real challenge for him each week he goes against some of the best players in the NFL. I do believe he is doing everything he can to meet that challenge."
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The Chargers' pass protection has been among their glaring weaknesses. With two starters possibly out against a Ravens' pass rush, which features Terrell Suggs, the Chargers could be hard-pressed to present quarterback Philip Rivers with a clean pocket.
Cornerback Quentin Jammer, who left Sunday's loss in Denver because of a calf injury, practiced Wednesday and should start against the Ravens.
But defensive tackle Aubrayo Franklin was unable to practice and indications are he will miss another game with a knee injury. Antonio Garay would fill in.
Wide receiver Eddie Royal (hamstring), tight end Dante Rosario (hamstring) and linebacker Larry English (calf) were limited to side work.
