Keep your eye on ...
1. The battle between LBs Larry Foote and Lawrence Timmons: This is a classic example of an experienced veteran trying to hold off a rising young player. Foote has been a productive player in the Steelers' 3-4 scheme for six years (starting the last 64 games), but Timmons, in his second year, is mounting a serious challenge for the starting job.
2. Rashard Mendenhall's debut: Pittsburgh's first-round choice out of Illinois has shown an innate ability to run between the tackles in training camp. His first chance to demonstrate those skills will come against the Eagles as he shares carries with Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore.
3. DeSean Jackson returning kicks: At California, the slender wide receiver was dynamic as a punt returner. The rookie wide receiver's first chance to demonstrate that he is the man to solve Philadelphia's woes in the return game comes against the Steelers.
4. Kevin Kolb's development: While Donovan McNabb remains the unquestioned starter in Philadelphia for the time being, the Eagles did not draft Kolb with their top pick in 2007 for nothing. He is the QB of the future and it is important for him to show he has made strides with a year under his belt.
