Antonio Pierce, 09.24.09

[NOTE: Pierce spoke to reporters before the announcement that Kenny Phillips was being placed on Injured Reserve.]

Q. Are you at all concerned with your numbers in the secondary?

A. No, we have eleven on the field. As long as we have eleven on the field, that’s all that matters. That’s all that matters. Whoever they are I’m pretty sure we can figure out that number.

Q. Are you concerned about Kenny (Phillips) being able to go?

A. No, I mean Kenny is a strong guy and I’m pretty sure he’ll do whatever he can to come out here.

Q. How well has he been playing?

A. He has been playing real well. He played well last year as a rookie. He has taken on that leadership role as far as the secondary, making calls and adjustments. Obviously, he made two big plays a couple nights ago in Dallas.

Q. How much of a loss would it be if he can’t play?

A. Hey, you have to move on man. No difference if Antonio Pierce, Justin Tuck or Osi (Umenyiora) is out. Next guy has to step up. Like I said, we always feel like we have 25 starters on this defense and whoever wants to step in for Kenny, if he is out, that’s what they have to do.

Q. What will it be like going up against Derrick Ward this week?

A. Fun. It’s always fun going up against a former teammate or former team. I am pretty sure he will be hyped up and excited about it and we will be, as well.

Q. Who will have the advantage?

A. Well its 11 of us and one of him so we know him pretty well, not all those guys on Tampa knows us. I don’t know. We will see on Sunday.