Return of Dotson could boost Steelers offense

Kevin DotsonKevin Dotson was a lightning rod in the offseason when the coaching staff was upset with him for not putting in what they felt was the necessary study work in for a second-year player expected to move into a starting role.

But once the season began, the second-year guard began to quickly establish himself as perhaps the Steelers' most consistent offensive lineman. And with Dotson starting between a pair of rookies in left tackle Dan Moore and center Kendrick Green, his steadying influence was seen as the team's offensive line made consistent improvement through the first 10 weeks of the season.

Dotson, however, suffered a high-ankle sprain in a Week 10 tie against the Lions and…