Ben Roethlisberger has 'no doubt' Andrew Luck will play Thanksgiving night

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is in the NFL’s concussion protocol, but his counterpart on Thanksgiving night thinks he will play.

An injury-laden NFL Week 11 Sunday added a notable name on Monday afternoon, with news Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck was placed in the NFL’s concussion protocol.

A short week ahead of a Thanksgiving night game against the Pittsburgh Steelers makes it hard to think Luck will be cleared in time to suit up. Just don’t tell Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger that.

Roethlisberger spoke to the media on Tuesday, and he had this to say about Luck (via Pro Football Talk).

Roethlisberger is, of course, no stranger to playing hurt, including a quick return from knee surgery earlier this season. But concussions are obviously a different thing entirely, especially with increased awareness put on them, and Luck has no say regarding his status.

Until further notice, Luck is highly unlikely to play on Thursday night. Zak Keefer of the Indianapolis Star reported Luck was not seen at the start Tuesday’s practice, which is not really surprising.

If Luck is unable to play, a lot of luster would come off the NFL’s holiday prime time game with Scott Tolzien starting under center for the Colts.