By Mark Curnutte
Cincinnati Enquirer

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward leads the NFL with 10 touchdown catches through 10 games, and ranks second in receptions (76) and yards (914).

One of the league's most physical receivers, Ward also is a security blanket for quarterback Kordell Stewart, who returns to the Steelers' lineup today in place of the injured Tommy Maddox (concussions of head and spinal cord).

The job of covering Ward today will fall mainly on Bengals cornerback Artrell Hawkins.

Hawkins and Ward have battled many times and are familiar with each other's styles. Hawkins almost was a teammate of Ward's - Pittsburgh offered Hawkins a free-agent contract this past spring to become its nickel cornerback.

Hawkins re-signed with the Bengals, however, and has been their most consistent cornerback this season. He is tied for the team lead with two interceptions and has been a solid tackler.

Hawkins needs to contain Ward, who is one of several outstanding skill players on the Steelers' offense, which is ranked seventh in the league in total yards and passing yards per game.

Ward had single-game career highs last week at Tennessee with 10 receptions, 168 yards and two touchdowns. Pittsburgh lost to the Titans, 31-23.

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