Head coach Andy Reid addressed the media after the Eagles' mock game Thursday, discussing the team's plans for its preseason game Friday in Pittsburgh.

Reid said it's a relief to get in some action against the Steelers, after some difficult weeks of training camp.

"We look forward to the opportunity of playing a game against somebody else here, besides beating on ourselves," Reid said. "It'll be good to get in there and see what looks good, and see what we need to continue to work on."

Reid said the starters and the second team will play a quarter and a half each, while the third stringers will play the fourth quarter.

Still, some starters may not be seeing action. Cornerback Asante Samuel will not play as he recovers from a hamstring strain, and wide receiver Reggie Brown might sit out with Achilles inflammation.

If Brown can't go, Greg Lewis will start opposite Kevin Curtis, though situations will dictate the personnel, Reid said.

Also out for Friday's game are tackle Franklin Dunbar (back), defensive tackles Montae Reagor (knee) and Kimo von Oelhoffen (knee) and defensive end Victor Abiamiri (wrist).

The playbook has been cut down so players can focus on getting into a playing mentality as opposed to "worrying" about what the play is, Reid said.

And in addition to getting his squad in tune for the regular season, Reid said preseason functions as an opportunity for younger players to get noticed.

"Whether you're a veteran player or you're a rookie, this is a showcase for you," Reid said. "It's a showcase to make the football team for those who end up making it, and then for those who don't, you've got positive film out there for other teams to look at. You don't want to let one rep get away from you."

Reid also addressed the situation of Pro Bowl guard Shawn Andrews, who still has yet to report to training camp. In several published reports, Andrews has said he is battling depression.

Reid said Andrews' focus should be to get his life back on track before thinking about football.

"It's a personal situation," Reid said. "That's what it is, and we're working with him on it. There's a personal side to things, and you've got to take care of business and that's what he's doing right now."