Steelers-Eagles update

August, 8, 2008
Aug 8
8:55
PM ET
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By James Walker

Posted by ESPN.com's James Walker

PITTSBURGH -- It's halftime and all of the first-team players will be out for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles.

So it's a good time provide an in-game update on major happenings:

  • Both quarterbacks were stellar, which are good signs for Steelers and Eagles fans. Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger only played one series, but he marched the team down the field for an eight-play, 80-yard drive that culminated in a 19-yard touchdown throw to Santonio Holmes. Roethlisberger finished the night 2-for-2 for 38 yards and a touchdown.
  • Eagles starter Donovan McNabb played two series and picked apart the Steelers' starting defense. He led two scoring drives -- one touchdown and one field goal -- and went 10-for-13 for 97 yards and a touchdown. His arm looked strong as he hit several intermediate throws that had some zip.
  • The Steelers defense didn't look like last year's top-ranked unit. Although it was just two series, the Eagles did what they wanted offensively, particularly in the passing game.
  • Pittsburgh's running game is looking especially strong in the first half. Starter Willie Parker, coming off a broken leg, gained 20 yards on his first three carries. And rookie Rashard Mendenhall is doing everything tonight, including carrying the ball and returning kickoffs. So far Mendenhall has seven carries for 34 yards, but he's probably going to get more work tonight.
  • Steelers backup quarterback Charlie Batch hurt his right shoulder on a run with just under six minutes to go in the first half. He went into the tunnel and hasn't returned. We'll keep you updated. The score is 10-10 after two quarters.

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