Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, had his share of ups and downs last season. Here are is best case and worst case scenarios in 2019.
Ben Roethlisberger is one of the most prolific and well-established players in Steelers history. In fact, when thinking of the all-time greats to sport that black and yellow uniform on Sundays, his name is near the top of the list.
However, things took a downward turn last year. Late in the season, Pittsburgh dropped three straight games, and ended up falling just short of a playoff berth.
The team lives and dies by Ben Roethlisberger, so nothing is more important than the success he may or may not display this season. Here are my best and worst case scenarios for Big Ben in 2019:
Best Case:
Ben comes back rejuvenated after a long offseason. Though he showed some signs of aging last season, he bounces back with a much more efficient season in 2019.
Though the Steelers lost Antonio Brown this offseason, he is assisted with the progress of James Washington and the additions of Donte Moncrief and Diontae Johnson.
Roethlisberger doesn’t feel the need to force the ball as much without Brown complaining for targets. He impresses in his old age and leads the Steelers to a playoff berth in 2019:
Stats: 4,900 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, 68% completion, 7.8 yards per attempt.
Worst Case:
Big Ben struggles without the aid of one of the league’s best receivers. Though Pittsburgh spent resources on wide receiver in recent years, Washington doesn’t pan out, while Moncrief and Diontae Johnson add minimal contributions in 2019.
Ben’s poor decision making lingers on, and for the 3rd straight season, he is among the league leaders in interceptions. Roethlisberger is asked to carry the team on his shoulders and forces numerous bad decisions because of it.
Ben’s efficiency takes a dip in 2019 and the proves to only be an average option at the quarterback position.
Stats: 4,150 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, 18 interceptions, 63% completion, 7.3 yards per attempt.
Big Ben has now reached an age (37) where his play could take a significant decline. It is still to be seen how the loss of Antonio Brown will effect the Steelers’ franchise quarterback. How Ben handles the changes will determine whether or not he takes a step forward or back in 2019.