Ben Roethlisberger’s performance for Steelers wasn’t as good as you think
By Tommy Jaggi
Defense allowed Steelers to play the whole game with the lead
Ben Roethlisberger deserves a bulk of the credit for his opening-drive touchdown that he capped off with a beautiful 50-yard play to Diontae Johnson for the score. However, from the gate, the defense really took control for the Steelers.
Pittsburgh allowed just 6 points to Teddy Bridgewater the Broncos in the first three quarters and change in this game. Because of this, Big Ben wasn’t asked to do too much. With an incredible performance from his offensive line and with Najee Harris busting lose for 123 rushing yards and a score, Roethlisberger never once had the pressure on his shoulders in this contest.
Again, this isn’t to take anything away from the game that he had. However, if Pittsburgh’s defense wasn’t doing such an incredible job, the Steelers would have asked more of Roethlisberger.
Even when Ben lost a fumble in enemy territory, Keith Butler’s defense was able to hold the Broncos to a field goal. Ultimately, Roethlisberger was in cruise control as nearly everyone around him posted very respectable performances.