Chargers Confident in Pittsburgh

With LaDainian Tomlinson out with a groin injury, Darren Sproles is ready to run in Sunday's playoff game in Pittsburgh.

Don't expect Sproles to rack up another 328 all-purpose yards, like he had last week in a win over the Colts, but he'll get plenty of touches against the Steelers top ranked defense.  While the Chargers are worried about wearing him out, Sproles isn't concerned.

"I did this in college, it doesn't bother me," said Sproles.

A key for the Chargers again this week will be the play of offensive tackles Marcus McNeill, and Jeromey Clary.  They have to get Pittsburgh linebackers LaMarr Woodley and James Harrison blocked.  McNeill will be matched up on Harrison, who earlier this week was named the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year.

"He's good rushing the passer," McNeill said. "I had to tackle him last game, after his interception, I don't want to do that again."

While the Steelers defense is top ranked, their offense isn't. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been prone to making mistakes in recent playoff games. This game could come down to ball protection.

"It comes down to who has the best game plan," according to the Steelers Hines Ward. "And don't turn the ball over."

The Chargers have never won a regular season game in Pittsburgh, but they've never lost a playoff game there.  The last time they won a post season game there was 1994 on their way to the Super Bowl.

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