Steelers hold out Smith, Sweed vs. Texans

Anthony Smith, the Pittsburgh Steelers safety who guaranteed a victory over the then-unbeaten New England Patriots last season, was unexpectedly placed on the inactive list for Sunday's season opener against the Houston Texans.

PITTSBURGH —

Coach Mike Tomlin did not hint in advance that Smith would not play. Smith started 10 games last season after free safety Ryan Clark had his spleen removed.

Also held out were wide receiver Limas Sweed, the Steelers' second-round draft pick from Texas, and defensive end Orpheus Roye, a former starter who rejoined Pittsburgh this season. Dallas Baker, a seventh-round pick in 2007, dressed instead of Sweed.

The Texans did not dress backup safety Dominique Barber, newly acquired cornerback Eugene Wilson or rookie linebacker Xavier Adibi, a fourth-round draft pick from Virginia Tech who has an Achilles' tendon injury.

Smith's surprise guarantee clearly motivated the Patriots, with several New England players yelling at him on the field during New England's 34-13 victory on Dec. 9.

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