PITTSBURGH -- Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is expected to play when the Steelers open the regular season on September 7th against the Dolphins at Heinz Field, Channel 4 Action Sports reporter Jon Burton said.

But for every good plan, there is a backup plan.

Reports seem to indicate that despite Roethlisberger's numerous injuries, the Steelers quarterback should be ready to go by the time the season starts.

Roethlisberger was riding his Suzuki Hayabusa on Second Avenue when he collided with a car near the 10th Street Bridge late Monday morning, police said. He fractured his upper and lower jaws, broke his nose, fractured other facial bones, had multiple head lacerations, suffered a mild concussion, and lost two teeth and chipped several others.

Doctors said his brain is functioning normally and a computerized-tomography scan showed no injury.

Roethlisberger, 24, was initially listed in serious but stable condition. He underwent seven hours of surgery on Monday.

But if Roethlisberger is unable to play, the black and gold have a number of options to fill Big Ben's spot until he's feeling 100 percent.

Charlie Batch might be considered to be the top choice.

The Homestead native started two games in place of an injured Roethlisberger last year and did well.

He did so well that the Steelers gave him a new contract this year.

The Steelers also drafted quarterback Omar Jacobs in the fifth round this April.

Jacobs broke school records at Bowling Green University.

He also recently revealed he is becoming a lot more comfortable learning the Steelers' offense.

Finally, the Steelers might be interested in bringing back Tommy Maddox, who they released back in February.

Whether or not that happens, the Steelers will most likely sign at least one more quarterback to take to training camp, Burton said.

There had been reports that Tommy Maddox's agent, Yann McElroy, had been in touch with the Steelers to see if the team had any interest in bringing his client back.

McElroy said those reports were not true and that his call was to merely check on Roethlisberger's condition.