Guy Whimper Will Start at Right Tackle if Marcus Gilbert is Sidelined

Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports

As I mentioned yesterday, the Pittsburgh Steelers might have to shuffle their offensive line for tomorrow’s game versus the Buffalo Bills. According to the team’s official website and Mike Prisuta, starting right tackle Marcus Gilbert and backup tackle Mike Adams are currently listed as “questionable” for Pittsburgh’s upcoming game.

If Gilbert is indeed sidelined due to his nagging ankle injury, then Pittsburgh will reportedly start Guy Whimper at right tackle tomorrow afternoon. Whimper, who started at right guard and struggled some last week against New England, would be moving back to his natural position of right tackle.

A right tackle for much of his three-year career in Jacksonville, Whimper stepped in for Gilbert when he was injured early in the game against the Baltimore Ravens three weeks ago and performed quite well in his absence against Elvis Dumervil.

Whether it is Whimper or Gilbert receiving the start though, they might see a heavy dose of Mario Williams tomorrow. Buffalo’s Pro Bowl defensive end has racked up 11.0 sacks already this year, and the Bills have recorded a total of 29 through their first nine games.

Keeping Roethlisberger upright and from making hasty decisions will be of the utmost importance. In the event he is called upon, Whimper must come up big and keep Williams at bay in passing situations for the Steelers’ offense to keep their team in the game.

Stats & Contract Info. Provided By: ESPN.com, Steelers.com, Spotrac, and Pro Football Reference

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