Ben Roethlisberger to Miss Hall of Fame Game

The Pittsburgh Steelers will lack serious star power for Sunday’s Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio.

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, running back Le’Veon Bell, wide receiverAntonio Brown, tight end Heath Miller, center Maurkice Pouncey and outside linebacker James Harrison are among the players sitting out the game against the Minnesota Vikings.

A star player missing preseason action isn’t unique, but the Steelers are being especially cautious because they have five preseason games this year. Coach Mike Tomlin is pacing his starters, and more could be added to the list.

“Those are the guys I have right now that I don’t intend to play,” Tomlin said.

Backup quarterback Landry Jones, who has had a productive camp, will get significant snaps. The Steelers will determine how much he plays by the pace of the game, but Jones will “play a lot,” Tomlin said. Tajh Boyd and Tyler Murphywould be next in line for snaps at quarterback.

The Steelers have rested several key players during camp practices, including wide receiver Markus Wheaton (hamstring) and safety Shamarko Thomas(shoulder). As a result, Tomlin is looking for situational, penalty-free football from young players.

“One man’s misfortune is another man’s opportunity,” Tomlin said. “We believe that. We live that.”