QB Roethlisberger practices for Steelers

Nov 12, 2008 - 8:14 PM PITTSBURGH (Ticker) -- Following the lead of coach Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was back at practice Wednesday.

Roethlisberger has seen his practice time limited due to a nagging shoulder that started bothering him early in the season.

While "Big Ben" has not missed a start since the 2006 season opener following an emergency appendectomy, he often has not practiced for a full week this season.

Four times he has been listed on the Steelers' injured list, and in each week he missed some practices.

Tomlin suggested that Roethlisberger's recent struggles might be due to his on-again, off-again practice schedule.

In the last three games, Roethlisberger has been sacked 10 times while throwing eight interceptions and only one touchdown.

"I think it's important that you practice and get physical reps," Tomlin said. "The reality is that as we go on, we recognize the value of practice and what the physical reps mean to us as an offense."

Roethlisberger threw three interceptions and no touchdowns in last week's 24-20 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. He did not practice until Friday.