Dixon ready if number is called

[SD2042]

http://www.steelers.com/article/115001/


Ben Roethlisberger practiced on Wednesday and is expected to start on Sunday in Baltimore. But just in case, Dennis Dixon will be ready.

Dixon, a second-year quarterback from Oregon, was quickly elevated to the number two spot after Charlie Batch broke a bone in his wrist against the Kansas City Chiefs.

“As a player you try to embrace everything that comes your way,” said Dixon. “I said early in the year if my number is called I want to perform for this team. I want to show them I am confident and ready to do it. I have to show my team I am confident and ready to go. I have to do the little things and big things.”

Dixon hasn’t played at all this season and completed his only pass attempt in 2008, getting in for two series in the regular season finale against Cleveland. And while he will get more snaps in practice this week that is the only thing that will change in his preparation as he approaches each week with the realization he could be called upon at any time.

“Going on out there, preparing in practice goes a long way,” said Dixon. “It’s like every other week. Go out there and do the little things. Also some extra film work with Ben goes a long way.”

The Steelers also added quarterback Tyler Palko to the practice squad. Palko played for the University of Pittsburgh and spent time on the New Orleans Saints active roster and practice squad.