Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin congratulates quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, left, after a second quarter touchdown pass against the Cleveland Browns in an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008, in Cleveland.

PITTSBURGH (AP) _ Coach Mike Tomlin seems driven to prevent the Pittsburgh Steelers from taking any week off as they play what may be one of the most challenging schedules in their history.



For a few days, he's making an exception.



With Pro Bowl players Willie Parker (knee) and Casey Hampton (groin) healing from significant injuries, Ben Roethlisberger going game to game with a slight shoulder separation and the Steelers (4-1) sore from three consecutive physical games, this weekend's bye affords a welcomed break.



"It's coming at the right time," Roethlisberger said. "It's time for people that have bumps and bruises to really get healed up, and we'll come back next week really feeling good about ourselves and where we're at."



Wide receiver Hines Ward is thankful for the time off, saying, "It comes at the perfect time.