Pittsburgh, PA (Sports Network) - Steelers coach Mike Tomlin announced that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will start Sunday's game against the San Diego Chargers.

Roethlisberger practiced for the second straight day on Thursday, and Tomlin is very comfortable with him returning to action following a three-game absence.

Roethlisberger suffered rib and shoulder injuries in a Week 10 home win against Kansas City.

Byron Leftwich replaced Roethlisberger the following week and finished the club's home loss to Baltimore despite suffering a rib fracture.

Veteran signal-caller Charlie Batch took over the reins in a Nov. 25 loss at Cleveland, then directed a fourth-quarter comeback this past Sunday at Baltimore.

12/06 16:07:28 ET