Ravens' Pernell McPhee active, Dannell Ellerbe, Ed Dickson scratched with injuries

Ravens starting left defensive end Pernell McPhee is active for today's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking the first time he's been active in four games.

McPhee had been sidelined with right knee and thigh injuries. He underwent two arthroscopic knee surgeries prior to training camp.

The Ravens will play without starting inside linebacker Dannell Ellerbe today because of a right foot and ankle injury sustained against the San Diego Chargers. Although listed as limited in practice Friday, Ellerbe acknowledged that he didn't really do much at all and would be a game-time decision.

With Ellerbe out, special-teams ace Brendon Ayanbadejo is expected to take the bulk of the work inside opposite Jameel McClain. Albert McClellan could also shift inside, and Josh Bynes is in the mix as well.

Tight end Ed Dickson was scratched with a sprained and bruised right knee. Dennis Pitta will start in his place and Billy Bajema will back him up.

The Ravens also deactivated defensive tackle Bryan Hall, cornerback Chris Johnson (strained hamstring), kick returner Deonte Thompson, and offensive guard Ramon Harewood.

The Steelers scratched quarterbacks Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder, ribs) and Byron Leftwich (ribs), running back Rashard Mendenhall, linebacker LaMarr Woodley, cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke, offensive tackle Mike Adams (ankle) and wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery.

awilson@baltsun.com

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