Around the NFL

Colts banged up

The Indianapolis Colts suddenly have some serious holes in their secondary: Cornerback Marlin Jackson and strong safety Bob Sanders are both gone for the season.

The team said Friday that Jackson (left knee) and Sanders (left elbow) have both been placed on injured reserve.

Sanders will undergo surgery for a torn biceps.

Veteran cornerback Kelvin Hayden is also expected to be sidelined for the next three to four weeks with a knee sprain.

The Colts host Houston today, and the timing couldn't be worse for Indy's defense.

FOX hits road

The Fox NFL pregame show will be broadcast from a military installation in Afghanistan today.

The six-man announcing team traveled to an undisclosed location in the country this week to honor servicemen and women three days before Veterans Day. "It's been so surreal, it's hard to describe," Fox analyst Michael Strahan said of the trip. "To witness so many young, smart, committed and capable men and women is inspiring. We're here to show our appreciation for their service and sacrifice."

Clark likely out

The Steelers won't announce whether safety Ryan Clark will play in Denver until Monday night, although he is not expected to be in uniform.

Clark nearly died following a game in Denver two years ago because of a rare blood disorder that is aggravated by playing in high altitude.

Clark had his spleen and gall bladder removed during separate operations, and he lost 30 pounds after the Oct. 21, 2007, game in Denver, which ended his season. Many of Clark's teammates told him he should skip this game.

He should listen.

Small-play Lions

The Lions aren't making enough big plays on offense and are allowing too many big plays on defense. On offense, Detroit ranks 29th in the NFL in yards per play (4.4). On defense, the Lions are last (6.2).

"That's one thing we need to become is a team that can get chunks on offense," offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said.

The Lions' longest run by a running back is 20 yards. The passing game has struggled to make big plays, too, while quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson each have missed two games with right knee injuries.