NFL Notes: Roethlisberger won’t face Ravens

PITTSBURGH -- Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will miss tonight's game at Baltimore because of a concussion, an unforeseen development that forces inexperienced Dennis Dixon to start one of the Super Bowl champions' biggest games this season.

Dixon has spent most of the season as the No. 3 quarterback running the Steelers' scout team during practice. He has thrown only one NFL pass in two seasons but must play because both Roethlisberger and backup Charlie Batch were hurt during a 27-24 overtime loss to Kansas City last week. Former Pitt star Tyler Palko was signed off the practice squad Thursday.

Roethlisberger practiced all week despite sustaining his fourth concussion since 2006. On Thursday, during his only interview of the week, he said he had been cleared to play, joking he passed "thousands of tests."

Roethlisberger, however, experienced headaches resulting from the concussion -- his head struck the knee of Chiefs linebacker Derrick Johnson as he leaned headfirst during a running play in overtime.

Colts won't have Freeney vs. Texans

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indianapolis Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney will miss today's game against the Houston Texans. Freeney was out of practice all week with an abdomen injury for the Colts, who have won 19 consecutive regular-season games. Indianapolis added depth this week by re-signing defensive end Josh Thomas.

Panthers WR Smith may not play vs. Jets

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers receiver Steve Smith has sore ribs and has been added to the injury list as questionable for today's game at the New York Jets. Smith leads Carolina with 45 catches for 599 yards and four touchdowns.

Dolphins' Grove to sit out vs. Bills

DAVIE, Fla. -- Miami Dolphins starting center Jake Grove (Virginia Tech) will miss today's game against the Buffalo Bills with an ankle injury. Joe Berger, Grove's replacement, will be making his first NFL start in his fifth season in the league and third with the Dolphins.

Jets part ways with kick returner Miller

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- The New York Jets have waived former Pro Bowl cornerback-kick returner Justin Miller a month after re-signing him. Miller played in one game for New York, but was inactive the last two.