Roethlisberger Has High Ankle Sprain, In Walking Boot
by Neal Coolong on Dec 9, 2011 4:51 PM EST
in Steelers Injury News
Email
PrintSteeler Nation can let out a sigh of relief. Sort of.
Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is reported to be in a walking boot around the South Side complex today, nursing a high ankle sprain.
Tribune-Review reporter Gerry Dulac tweeted both Roethlisberger and C Maurkice Pouncey suffered high ankle sprains, "described as 'not good.'"
Roethlisberger suffered the sprain in Pittsburgh's 14-3 Week 14 win over Cleveland Thursday. While high ankle sprains are not easy injuries to play with, it looked far worse than what it ended up being.
Veteran back-up Charlie Batch came into the game for the remainder of the first half, and the results of that were uninspiring, to put it mildly. Roethlisberger returned to the game, but clearly was hobbled. He struggled to step back into handoffs, and his fourth quarter interception looked like the result of not being able to step into the throw.
It appears Batch would be the starter if Roethlisberger is unable to play in Week 15, a Monday Night game at San Francisco. It's likely Dennis Dixon will be active for the game as well. Dixon has been a healthy scratch most of the 2011 season.
114 comments
|
Add comment
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Any word on Pouncey yet? I haven't been able to find any info...
"My mentality is singular in that I want to be world champs each and every year, so that's what we work toward. I have a tough time acknowledging levels of success short of that. That's just how I'm wired." - Mike Tomlin
High ankle sprain
Same as Ben, both don’t look very good right now, but at least they didn’t break anything.
High ankle sprains don’t heal very quickly though.
god i hate when the words 'high' and 'ankle'
are associated. It’s a bitch of an injury. Hopefully they are relatively mild….if that is possible…
"I think the beard will decide when the time is right to come back. It will know when the time is right and all of a sudden appear." -The Deisel
As someone who likes both teams
I think they should sit him next Monday night, even though I have tickets to the game.
It will allow him to heal, and counter-balance the fact that Willis will most likely be out.
Steelers need a healthy Big holds-the-ball-too-long in January, and the Niners won’t make noise in the post-season without the best inside linebacker in the game, even though he never stabbed two dudes to death in Atlanta…
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 2:05 AM EST up reply actions
Hey, Ray-Ray is still looking for the clothes he wore that night, which mysteriously vanished before the police showed up.
by Neal Coolong on Dec 10, 2011 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
How dumb does OJ Simpson
have to feel? He is one of two NFL players to get away with a double homicide, and he’s in jail cause he robbed some guys at gun point in a hotel room?!?
Ray Lewis looks at that and laughs, because he has at least refrained from getting his own hands dirty since his “trial”.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 1:08 PM EST up reply actions
Sadly,
he never stabbed two dudes to death in Atlanta…
this means that Patrick Willis will never be able to sing the blues. Particularly note Item 12…
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 10, 2011 12:27 PM EST up reply actions
I ain’t never shanked two men in Georgia,
but the judge done judged me like my mama did.
I ain’t never shanked two men in Georgia,
but the judge done judged me like my mama did.
When I get finally get outta this concrete house,
I’m gonna shank dat pig real good.
©Jake’s Atlanta Blues.
IronJake
might be a pretty good blues name, if you precede it with a disability, like “Limpin’ IronJake.”
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 10, 2011 1:43 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I’m thinkin’ IronJake “Slag” Johnson. Ya know, ‘cause I done worked in da mills, pushin’ slag for pickin’ cotton wages until ma hands look and fill like my grandaddy’s leather suitcase.
Fabulous!
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 10, 2011 2:43 PM EST up reply actions
Outstanding point
Willis is good sideline to sideline, he tackles well, he’s phenomenal in coverage…but he just can’t sing the blues.
Fortunately, he’s on a team that has been able to for the past several years, so maybe someone else can step up in that capacity.
And, Ray Ray probably can’t either, because even though he may know what it’s like to be involved in a double-murder, he doesn’t know what jail time is like…
@IronJake: NICE.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 1:11 PM EST up reply actions
"It's a matter of bad luck"
Tiger Woods cannot sing the Blues- Gary Coleman could".
OutStanding.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 1:15 PM EST up reply actions
Scratching head here?
Are you trying to say that losing Ben is the same and the Niners losing Willis? If you are you have rocks in your head.
Bad
But I can think of worst alternatives. There’s still hope
by Ivan Cole (RickVa) on Dec 9, 2011 5:24 PM EST reply actions
ben doesnt needs practice
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Dec 10, 2011 3:54 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Ben's not gonna care
He’ll play
"I think every quarterback should believe they’re the best. Do I think there are better quarterbacks than me? Possibly. But would I take anyone else with the ball in their hands at the end of the game? I don’t think so." - Ben Roethlisberger-
why wouldn't he play?
If he played last night, 10 days rest can only help. Of course he should play! And I can’t be the only one who has noticed that the offense takes on a certain…efficiency, when Ben is less mobile, and BA (is forced to) call 3 step drops and quick slants.
you obviously never had a high ankle sprain
its different the next day, not to mention the swelling. I played the game and had two and the pain is unreal. Also broke my foot, unrelated to football and the break actually hurt less than the ankle sprains. High Ankle sprains are very tough healing and the ligaments have to heal properely, you have no support in that area, especially if its severe enough and how bad they are torn.
I wouldnt mind both Ben and Pouncey sitting for the SF game
Being healthy and #5 seed >>> attempting to be #1 seed and have injured players
"He had no teeth, and he was slobbering all over himself. I'm thinking, 'You can have your money back, just get me out of here. Let me go be an accountant." I can't tell you how badly I wanted out of there."
- Denver rookie QB John Elway, on Jack Lambert, after Lambert and the Steelers knocked Elway out of his first game as a pro (1983).
If the can play against SF
I want em on the field…..still a chance for us to get a 1st rd bye, we could rest em then. This week is 10 days off, kinda ike a mini bye itself.
by steeler fever on Dec 9, 2011 6:46 PM EST up reply actions
Depends
If the Ravens eff it up on consecutive Sundays, then play him.
But, speaking as someone who grew up on the Niners, and has come to be a Steelers fan (long story), I won’t be totally bummed if Tomlin sits him, just to increase their January chances. Plus, Patrick Willis is likely to be out that game, so things will be approximately even, given neither team will have their MIP in.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 2:08 AM EST up reply actions
Don't get too greedy -
haven’t the Niners already cemented their #2 seed, unless they were to lose out (not likely!) And they can’t manage a “perfect” season at this point anyhow… Cmon, gangsta, help a brother (or sister) out : )
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 10, 2011 12:30 PM EST up reply actions
True
On that note, I REALLY wish the 49ers had beaten the Ravens, and done both teams a favor.
The Monday night game should be exceptional- but, having several good friends who are Steelers fans from Western PA, bragging rights are on the line! I mostly just want both teams to avoid serious (further) injuries, so that they can tear through their respective playoffs,,,
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 1:01 PM EST up reply actions
Agree but not much chance of that happening unless Ben is too gimpy to play in SF.
Batch shouldn’t be judged on his brief efforts at the end of the first half. We know he’s a competent backup, but it wouldn’t hurt to let him play a complete half sometime before the end of the season so that he can get some rhythm and timing back.
This
Batch will be tuned up for it, Dixon will get a hat, and the team went 3-1 last year to start the season against solid opposition.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 1:02 PM EST up reply actions
Anyone who Can play Will play
this is no time to hold out players and being careful. Our playoffs started this week and the prize is a bye week. Sitting star players if they can play would mean gift rapping the division for the Ravens.
If it was important enough that Ben played the 2nd half against the browns, then there’s no doubt he’ll play against the 49ers.
I appreciate what you're saying...
But I see it the opposite way- I think if the Ravens lose this weekend, or next Sunday, your suggestion is the correct one.
If, however, the Ravens win, and look like they have a solid chance of winning out, I think it’s actually more important for the Steelers to allow Roethlisberger time to heal, because without him being healthy for the playoffs,THAT is where I think they are potentially gifting their opponents a victory. I’d give them better odds with a healthy QB as a wild card than at home with Batch or Dixon in January.
Thoughts?
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 1:05 PM EST up reply actions
Ravens end the season at the Bengals
A strong possibility for a loss by the ravens here. Bengals are probably gonna need the win to secure a WC spot.
Go Bengals!
by steeler fever on Dec 10, 2011 2:39 PM EST up reply actions
Only 2 times each year will you ever hear those words from me.
This week though…. The Jets get the beatdown they deserve by KC, Titans lose in a landslide to NO, and Cicny implodes yet again.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
does little timmy tebow lead denver to a win at home?
by steeler fever on Dec 10, 2011 5:21 PM EST up reply actions
He better. My Pick ’Em needs all the help it can get.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
whether the Ravens win or lose this week makes no difference
We have to win out and hope the Ravens lose at least 1 time.
Unless we get to the final week and find that we are 2 games up on the Ravens (unlikely), or we are 1 game back and it becomes meaningless then we won’t rest any players the rest of the way. Either way, I don’t see us resting anybody until the final week.
Rust
Batch had more rust on him than the entire city of Cleveland. Seneca Wallace came in an threw a decent pass right off the bench, as if he had been practicing with something other than a clipboard. Anybody remember Hanratty and the ever-present clipboard?
"The standard is the standard." Mike Tomlin
The standard for Steeler football is #58. Me
Sure do remember Hanratty
When the Steelers released him in 1976, Tampa Bay picked him up close to the week they made their first ever trip to Pittsburgh. It didn’t help, as both Steve Spurrier and Hanratty were thrashed, 42-0.
Hanratty did hand off four times at the end of Super Bowl 10, after Bradshaw departed with a concussion.
Pedigree
MT likes to talk about a player’s pedigree… doesn’t always translate into performance, does it? Two-time All American and Heisman candidate from Notre Dame quickly lost his job and never really made it in the pros.
"The standard is the standard." Mike Tomlin
The standard for Steeler football is #58. Me
by The 58 Standard on Dec 9, 2011 7:08 PM EST up reply actions
Seneca Wallace
was in for part of the Ravens game when Colt McCoy got dinged up. Furthermore, McCoy was a Probable this week, but you know that Wallace got some reps in practice. It’s probably been months since Batch got any, at least with the first team.
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 10, 2011 1:05 AM EST up reply actions
Batch is not NOT the answer
Charley is “rusted out” and he is VERY fragile. All he gives us is “3 and out”. He only throws VERY short passes (and they don’t have zip on them), so the DB’s can move a lot closer to the line to cover our receivers.. Arians just needs to draw up a game plan to fit the abilities of Dixon. He played damn good against Baltimore last year, but made a bad read on the winning interception. This year he has had plenty of time to observe and we have a better receiving corp with the dramatic improvement of Brown and Ben giving the TE’s and Cotchery more looks. Mendy and Redman are running much harder and we can still throw the short pass to Mwelde coming out of the backfield. I don’t know why Dixon is not dressing. If we thought that he was that bad, we would have dumped him before the season started and given one of the available veteran FA QB’s a “look see” – especially when Lefty went down. There has got to be more to it than what people are saying – that he is inept. He would have been the top Heisman candidate his senior year if he had not gotten hurt. We have kept him around for “some” reason. Well now is the time to lay it on the line if Ben cannot go. When Charlie came in our offense went flat. DD is much more versatile and can run if necessary. Arians’ job is to figure out a plan that suits him and keep Ben and Charlie in his ear. I hate to see Ben out there with that injury. One good shot and he may be finished before the playoffs get here. There is really no good way to tape an injury like that.
by Allen F on Dec 10, 2011 1:06 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Don’t you think that if there was ANYTHING that Dixon could do, he’d at least dress in any game this year? Do you think it’s some sort of strange coincidence? Cronyism? There’s a good reason he doesn’t even get to put a uniform on every week. He did have an ok game last year, but the people that see him every day decided that he’s not worthy of a spot…I trust them, they see him a lot more than I do
This message will self destruct
Who the hell's interrupting my Kung Fu? - Black Dynamite
With two D's, for a double dose of this pimpin'
If we thought that he was that bad, then why didn't we drop him?
There were veterans like Garcia available for cheap. And he would have had time to learn our system. I see NO chances to win with Charlie. Our Offense goes “flat” when he comes in.
Garcia would not have been cheaper than Dixon. He’s making the minimum for his experience. The minimum for a player with Garcia’s experience is considerably higher.
They kept him as an insurance policy to the insurance policy. I don’t like Batch either, but I don’t know how you can make sweeping judgements of the offense going flat with him out there based on about 4 plays he ran on Thursday.
Last year he played good enough to beat the Ravens, but, McFadden had to bite on that route. he CRUSHED TB
This message will self destruct
Who the hell's interrupting my Kung Fu? - Black Dynamite
With two D's, for a double dose of this pimpin'
I have been harping on this since early in the season when Ben was taking a beating
When Lefty went down, we should have known that we needed a strong backup. I like Charlie (I am also originally from SW Pa), but I would not want him as my “backup”. He plays like he has no confidence in his game and usually goes 3 and out. I am not saying that Dixon is the answer, but I think that he has a lot more to offer than Charlie. I caught a lot of flack for saying that I wish that we could pick up Terrelle Pryor in the supplemental draft and let him do exactly what the Raiders are doing with him (let him sit back and learn for a few years). If you are from SW Pa, you probably know that he is from that area (Jeanette H.S.) and was a tremendous athlete. He was the top recruit in the country coming out of high school And he has ties to Charlie Batch. He is the same type of QB that Cam Newton is and about the same size. Many “naysayers” said that Cam would be a TE in the pros – I disagreed. I think that Pryor has just as much ability. But for the sake of not causing another argument, I will leave that alone. Time will tell.
and usually goes 3 and out
What are you basing this on?
I caught a lot of flack for saying that I wish that we could pick up Terrelle Pryor in the supplemental draft
As you should have, lol. I can’t imagine what any NFL team would see in that hack. Good athlete does not equal good quarterback (or even serviceable quarterback, in his case) Comparing him to Cam Newton is ridiculous. Terrell Pryor played in the weakest major conference of them all and STILL didn’t look like a decent qb (unless they were playing one of their 8 cupcakes per season, even still) Cam Newton dominated the best conference thoroughly. No similarity between the to at all.
Lastly, as I said, Dixons vet minimum is way lower than what Garcia’s vet minimum would be. The longer you’re in the league, the higher it is.
This message will self destruct
Who the hell's interrupting my Kung Fu? - Black Dynamite
With two D's, for a double dose of this pimpin'
I'll keep my opinion on Pryor and see what happens in the future
But, if we have to go with Charlie, I might have to open up that bottle of Johnny Walker Blue that I sat aside. I would really hate to see Ben go out there and possibly get hurt even worse. Not just as a QB, but as a young man who will start to feel these injuries once he hangs up his cleats. He is a tremendous young man who gives his all for the team. I hope that people will forgive him for his immaturity last year and see that he has come a long way as a a player and as a man. We are a very talented team that has the capability to win it all if we can get through this next game with or without Ben.
I don’t like him either, but what are you basing that “we usually go 3 and out” on? I’d really like to know this. If by “usually” you mean..in his one series…then yes, you are correct.
Also…I’d love to hear what it is that you see in Pryor (other than being a hometown boy). This is not for argument, only for the possibility that you can make me see something I didn’t while watching about 20 or so of his games at OSU.
This message will self destruct
Who the hell's interrupting my Kung Fu? - Black Dynamite
With two D's, for a double dose of this pimpin'
Charlie
That is basically all that I have seen him do since he as been with us. He has had very little game time. He is someone who “manages” a game he does not control it. He has not had any fluidity in his game since he left Detroit. He also does not have a strong arm and he is very fragile. Some say the same about Dixon (fragile). But Dixon is more versatile. As for Pryor, he is athlete. He probably should have chosen another school with a pro style offense. His game was basically the same as Cam Newton’s. He had a strong arm and he could run when he had to. I don’t think that he ever fit in with Ohio State. It will be senseless to argue it (even constructively) now. We will see a lot of him in the pre-season next year. Wish it was with us. Right now, I am concerned about how we will fare against the 49ers.
Last year, he destroyed a pretty good TB defense, and played just as well as Ben did in his game against the Ravens. He does manage…but the rest of the O should be able to pick him up. Yes…Charlie is fragile (two season ending injuries in 4 snaps unless my memory is messing with me) But still, I don’t think the world is ending if he’s in. I do not trust Dixon though. You know why? because the people that know the most don’t trust him enough to put a uniform on him.
You are right, senseless to argue about it, but I do not believe him and Cam share any similarities (other than skin color, which is what gets certain players lumped in together quite often) I’ll just say I disagree with you about his school choice, it wouldn’t have mattered, he just don’t have the goods. He’s a good runner. Cool…that’s what running backs are for.
As far as the niners game…If Ben can’t make it, I have faith that the coaches will call the game necessary to do the job, if not, we’re still likely to make the playoffs, since we have the Rams and Clowns after that.
This message will self destruct
Who the hell's interrupting my Kung Fu? - Black Dynamite
With two D's, for a double dose of this pimpin'
I agree that Coaches will tailor the game for whoever starts
I will always argue that if the coaches did not see anything in Dixon, they would have cut him and picked up a veteran and worked him into our salary cap. I am tentative about every game because on any given Sunday in the NFL. The Ravens can attest to that with their games against the Jags and the Seahawks. Also some of our needless losses last year. I think that we have the talent to beat anyone, but that talent has to show up on game day. These guys are all pros. They are wearing that uniform because they are better than most other football players – although sometimes their egos override their talent. I will take any “W” that we can get. Even if it is 3-2.
Just thought I would add that tidbit.
Nice chatting with you. Hope we can have something to celebrate after the 9ers game.
understand that some people said the same things, that does not mean they are the same people. Cam can throw…Pryor can not. Cam can run…Pryor can too…
Cam has brains…Pryor….if he does, they aren’t evident.
Again..skin color is the only similarity.
This message will self destruct
Who the hell's interrupting my Kung Fu? - Black Dynamite
With two D's, for a double dose of this pimpin'
as an OSU fan
i never once felt comfortable with pryor as a QB even at a college level. he’s got the most fragile psyche since vince young, and the offense always had to be dumbed down severely. he always seemed to crumble under pressure and sometimes just didnt seem interested at all when faced with adversity.
I'll never forget when the Nittany Lions made him cry like a little bitch.
Yeah I know he got his revenge but it was still awesome.
"It was an attrition football game and you know we like that."
Franco Harris:
"If I had to choose today between the moral integrity and character of Joe Paterno and the politicians and commentators criticizing him, I would pick Joe Paterno, hands down, no contest every time."
Pryor
If Pryor was even remotely ready to be an NFL QB, he would have been activated to their roster when Campbell went down.
Instead, they traded a first round pick for a guy who hadn’t thrown a ball all season.
That’s not an indictment on Pryor, it just shows the Raiders don’t feel he’s ready yet.
If we really want to get into Newton, I’d be happy to discuss how the Panthers dumbed their offense down to the point he only makes four or five throws, and how is rushing touchdowns – while impressive – do not indicate a skill set associated with winning quarterbacks, but rather, they indicate a franchise’s desire to sell tickets to fans who desperately needed a reason to follow a team that wasn’t going to succeed this year.
Do you guys know Auburn didn’t have formation-based play calls last year? They went by numbers. Like, Newton went into the huddle and called “Play 12.” There had to be a reason they did that.
by Neal Coolong on Dec 10, 2011 9:40 AM EST up reply actions
I agree with you Neal
Pryor is NOT ready yet. That is what I was trying to say. If we had him we could let him sit back, watch and learn. He could learn from Ben and Leftwich. That is what the Patriots are doing with Mallet. Hell, he (Pryor) would only have been a Junior this past season. He has a lot to learn. But a good thing is that he is a great athlete. He was immature and could not grow in college because he was “coddled” at Ohio State. Now, he is not the star – he is a “raw” rookie. If he gets the proper coaching and advice, I say he will have success in the NFL. Now I would like to lay this matter to rest and wait till the pre-season and see how he plays in camp and the- preseason games. I like to root for “underdogs” and see them succeed – like Tebow is doing.
I think Dixon is #3 this year more for his antics than anything else
publicly asking for a trade before the season doesn’t endear you to the owners, coaches, or fans.
Even so – it’s a tough argument to think that Batch brings more to the table than Dixon. He probably has the roster spot mainly as a gift from the team for past years after going bankrupt this off season. Kind of like the huge contract the Lakers gave Kareem when he was used up and bankrupt.
That makes sense to me, lkwdsteel.
Our team looks after our vets. They did the same thing for Aaron Smith and Hoke when it was obvious that their best days were behind them. I also see Hampton, Farrior, Hines and Batch leaving after this year also. I respect all of them and their contributions to our team. I also respect this organization for taking care of those who have helped us to be the great team that we are. Now it is “crunch time” and I do not think that Charley is the man for the job if Ben is not available. Dixon may not be the man, but I think that he is a better option than Charlie.
If we start Dixon ahead of Batch...
…at least we know what we’re getting if Dixon doesn’t perform, with Batch.
But I would hate to not take advantage of Dixon’s superior physical skills, if they are needed, just because Batch is Batch.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
Ok, I’m going to put the Dixon fear-factor on the backburner. Of course I’m going to support (wildly at times) whomever is under center; but there’s something about Dixon that makes it tough for me to embrace the though of him starting over Batch.
Guess we’ll find out next Monday who stepped up and who stepped back.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
As you say - no matter who starts, I will be cheering hard
We have the guns. I just hope they are firing from both barrels. Our “O” line needs to bring it’s “A” game. I will be nervous with anybody but Ben behind Center. I just don’t want him to play if he “definitely” is not up to it. We will need a great game from our Defense also.
Yes. I won’t be at all unhappy if Ben sits this week though.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
Maybe BR should wear a cast
at all times. The 0-line does a LOT better job of protecting him when he is injured, so we know they are capable of it, they just need the proper motivation.
From here on out, Roethlisberger should wear something at all times to make it seem like he is injured, and he can switch it up from week to week so that the line does not get complacent.
That, and Kemo is probably done as a Steeler, Legs is strictly an interior line backup, and the team needs to find Faneca 2.0 in the draft.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Dec 10, 2011 2:29 PM EST up reply actions
I want to see the fire in the belly ALL the time
"We want to be stout as an offensive line and protect him so he doesn’t get in that situation in the first place," left tackle Max Starks said. "But when he does bounce back from those types of injuries it puts a premium on protecting him. We said we weren’t going to let anything happen to him."
Whats the matter with these guys, they know how Ben plays….this shouldn’t have to be inspired by a gimpy Ben….the standard is the standard….
But you keep pulling out your "refs-threw-the-game" card if that’s what you need for catharsis. You can use that card after every loss. It is a lifetime pass. Get it laminated. -Maryrose
They (especially Kemo)
Did not play like they were “not going to let anything happen to him” last night. And that was against one of the worst defenses.
"The standard is the standard." Mike Tomlin
The standard for Steeler football is #58. Me
by The 58 Standard on Dec 9, 2011 7:01 PM EST up reply actions
Well, I will say that the Browns D didn’t play like one of the worst defenses, they played like it was a AFCN game and brought it. So last night, they played over their heads in some ways….
Kemo, such a liability. But if the O line can maintain a pocket for Ben he would tear it up.
But Ben is going to get crushed over time…he’s a little thick when it comes to….(sigh) getting rid of the ball (such a tired observation, I know). I’d love to see more dink and dunk, ala the Pats game whichh would eat the clock and help the D out by extending drives, not plays.
But he does what he does, and although I was thinking it was so stupid for him to be out there, he again makes the case for let Ben be Ben….but draft a QB soon, please
But you keep pulling out your "refs-threw-the-game" card if that’s what you need for catharsis. You can use that card after every loss. It is a lifetime pass. Get it laminated. -Maryrose
I would think more of drafting a LG that has potential for LT
i love legs but he is also the back up center and would rather have him standing bye
by steeler_in_maryland on Dec 9, 2011 7:24 PM EST up reply actions
not so sure the browns defense "brought it" last night
Before Ben went down, the Steelers were moving the ball at will on the browns. After the Steelers first couple offensive series i was thinking to myself that the steelers were gonna easily put up 30+ on the clowns. Even with Ben getting injured, if not for 2 fumbles at extremely inopportune areas of the field, the score would of looked something like 28-3, and everyone would be talking about what a blowout this game was instead of a hard fought battle.
“brought it” might have been generous, maybe I wanted to describe that they gave a lot more than what they have been showing this season….point taken
But you keep pulling out your "refs-threw-the-game" card if that’s what you need for catharsis. You can use that card after every loss. It is a lifetime pass. Get it laminated. -Maryrose
The Browns defense forced two turnovers and a punt before Roethlisberger’s injury. They sacked him on the injury play, forcing another punt. Then they sacked Batch to close out the half.
I think they deserve a little bit of credit.
by Neal Coolong on Dec 10, 2011 9:50 AM EST up reply actions
Come on...
…after the embarrassment of their previous game, didn’t you expect them to come out gunning, with 8 in the box, to NOT let the Steelers run on them like the Ratbirds; they put their faith in their (supposed) #1 pass defense to keep them close.
Fat lot of good that did, Ben was passing on them with ease.
Point is, while I"m no OL apologist, the Browns came to play; they can’t be that bad, being in the NFL.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
That's a nice thought, Twell,
I want to see the fire in the belly ALL the time
but humanly it isn’t possible. You can’t sustain that sort of overdrive intensity all the time, nor should you try. If you don’t have an extra gear left, what happens when you need one? I’m happy with the guys doing a great job, but leaving the heroics for when they are really required. If their normal great job isn’t getting the job done, the coaching staff has to figure out why, and either replace the offending players, (if there are healthy enough bodies to replace them with) or help them to improve (if improvement is possible.) And don’t minimize the effects of more rotating offensive linemen either.
"If you're not getting better, I don't care what business you're in, you're a dead man. I try to look critically at the mistakes that I make and try to learn from them, like our team does." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Dec 10, 2011 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
admantium like Woodley
"It was an attrition football game and you know we like that."
Franco Harris:
"If I had to choose today between the moral integrity and character of Joe Paterno and the politicians and commentators criticizing him, I would pick Joe Paterno, hands down, no contest every time."
He's secretly The Wolverene
If you buy a foreign made product you give money to a person who will not be buying an American made product that you get paid to make. Think about it next time you're at the store.
I think Ben is more likely to come back from this injury than Pouncey is. Just the way Pouncey has to position himself and push off with the foot is constant aggravation to the injury. I’m ok if neither of them start the SF game.
I really believe Charlie Batch looked unprepared. Just remember folks; it’s the same Charlie Batch that went 3-1 just a year ago. He may not win; but it won’t be because he didn’t give 150%/
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
If nothing else...
There’s a world of difference between coming in cold in a very physical game and having a week to prepare and starting. They’ll know early in the week whether Ben has a legitimate shot to play, and if it isn’t likely, Batch will prepare as the starter.
It’s a risk you have to take in the NFL. Whoever the hell New England’s back-up QB is, he doesn’t take many snaps in the week leading up to the game. Marc Bulger does not take snaps over Joe Flacco in Baltimore. Being a back-up QB is a really tough job, and more of it is helping prepare the starter than preparing yourself to play.
by Neal Coolong on Dec 10, 2011 9:53 AM EST up reply actions
Well, there's still a month, at least, before the Steelers have to play a postseason game.
At the very worst, he should be well enough to make a go at it then. Although, if recent history is any indictation, Big Ben will be out there on the 19th.
It’s nothing short of amazing. He’s one tough cookie.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
Get Healthy
This may not be too popular, but I’d rather see Ben and Maurkice sit the rest of the regular season if they need to, to be ready for the playoffs.
a) Batch can win regular season games for the Steelers. If he practices and prepares all week he’ll be much more prepared.
b) They can only get the division win if Baltimore loses anyway, and that’s a big IF.
c) Once you make the playoffs, it doesn’t matter what seed you are. The Steelers already proved that a few years back. It’s more important to be healthy.
This isn't about the division
There’s no point in planning anything around what a team you aren’t playing is doing. The fact is, they haven’t clinched a playoff spot. Until they do that, the plan will be the same as it was in Week 3, Week 9 and Week 14. Ben is the starting quarterback until he’s physically unable to play. They’re not going to “rest” him because of what may be coming down the line.
If Baltimore loses, great. If not, great. Either way, they’re going to play San Francisco with the best of what they have. Both teams have three games remaining, all against NFL teams. You never know what could happen. Hell, both Pittsburgh and Baltimore could lose, and Cincinnati could beat Houston. All of a sudden, there’s one game separating the three teams again.
by Neal Coolong on Dec 10, 2011 10:01 AM EST up reply actions
Im pretty sure ben will be out until playoff time
Im not a doctor by any means but ben didn’t let his ankle swell. So he was able to come back in. But now that he rested it, he probably has swelling and wont be able to put any weight on it until the swelling goes down, And since its a high ankle sprain it will take weeks.
But then again its ben, so who knows.
AMAS
Based on past experience,
Tomlin probably will let Ben play in SF if he’s able to even walk out onto the field without crutches or other assistance. This is just one more psychological advantage to rally his team in a big game. We don’t really know the severity of Ben’s injury and I still think MT is determined to shoot for the division title, if at all possible.
But I also think if Batch has10 days to prepare for his first start of the season, he’ll do a pretty good job leading the offense. You can’t judge him on his brief appearance at Heinz Field on Thursday night.
At the very least, it’s a pretty safe bet the Batch will be taking the snaps the whole week leading up to the SF game. Charlie is around because if needed he can and does knock the rust off pretty quickly. If Ben can’t go for SF; I’m not counting the game as an automatic loss.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
Any word if Woodley can play?
"He had no teeth, and he was slobbering all over himself. I'm thinking, 'You can have your money back, just get me out of here. Let me go be an accountant." I can't tell you how badly I wanted out of there."
- Denver rookie QB John Elway, on Jack Lambert, after Lambert and the Steelers knocked Elway out of his first game as a pro (1983).
I’d almost rather Woodley sit out the last 3 of the regular season and let the hammy get stronger. It’s not as though Worilds is Woodley, but the kid has done a good job and gaining very valuable in-game experience.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
Agreed
As I said before I would rather have a fully healthy team in the playoffs.
"He had no teeth, and he was slobbering all over himself. I'm thinking, 'You can have your money back, just get me out of here. Let me go be an accountant." I can't tell you how badly I wanted out of there."
- Denver rookie QB John Elway, on Jack Lambert, after Lambert and the Steelers knocked Elway out of his first game as a pro (1983).
Or as close to it as possible. I’m with you.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
Lets sit all of the starters the rest of the season so they are healthy!!!
that way we can wind up 11-5 or 10-6 and can be nice and fresh for … a long winter on the couch?
If any of them are well enough to play then they have to play. We have a real possibility of finishing 13-3 with a #1 seed. All it would take is Houston and Baltimore to lose 1 game each down the stretch – and that’s very likely.
Worilds has played well, but he’s no Woodley. We’ll need every man on deck in San Fran this week. After that we should be able to win out fairly easily.
Sitting Woodley isn’t exactly sitting the team. Worlids has done a nice job and Woodley’s hammy injury is still a major concern. Why risk Woodley?
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
Five weeks from when he injured it to the next time he set foot on the field. He got back out there, played 13 snaps and was injured again.
Really doesn’t seem likely he’ll be back in the regular season. If it took him five weeks to recover to the point he could get back on the field, but only injured it again very shortly into the game, you gotta think it’d be a bare minimum of another four weeks. That’s the Wild Card round of the playoffs (assuming the Steelers qualify, of course).
They said at the time he had the same kind of injury Andre Johnson had, and both Johnson and Woodley re-injured it in their first game back.
by Neal Coolong on Dec 10, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions
"X" Factor
Steelers were fortunate Ben’s injury did not occur to his plant leg, and he was able to finish the game Thursday. The unknown aspect to all of this is the fact Ben said he has never experienced this type of injury before.
On a separate note, Tomlin mentioned a hamstring tweak for Troy, and a groin injury for Ziggy Hood. Hope both guys can play versus the Niners.
I’m guessing that Ben misses the rest of the season and comes back for the playoffs. Seems like the smartest move in my opinion.
Flacco has to trust his receivers to make catches, but shouldn’t throw towards coverage. He needs to attack deep more often, but shouldn’t hold onto the ball so long. He needs to show more awareness in the pocket and move to extend plays, but nothing good comes of him leaving the pocket. He should run with the ball if nobody’s open, but he definitely can’t run with the ball.
Flacco should have the awareness of Roethlisberger, the elusiveness of Vick, the control of the offense of Manning, the leadership of Brady, the accuracy of Brees, and the arm strength of … Flacco? - Ampallang
thats so sweet of you Mr. Malor!
Always wanting the best for Steelers players and fans. TY!
by steeler fever on Dec 10, 2011 2:43 PM EST up reply actions
Well you can either leave a hobbled Ben out there for the next 4 weeks and watch your horrendous O-Line try and save him while he gets knocked around even more and then possibly lose him for the playoffs, or you can put Batch in, hope for 12-4 and get Ben back healthy enough for the playoffs.
He will get killed against San Fran, but that is your team’s choices.
Flacco has to trust his receivers to make catches, but shouldn’t throw towards coverage. He needs to attack deep more often, but shouldn’t hold onto the ball so long. He needs to show more awareness in the pocket and move to extend plays, but nothing good comes of him leaving the pocket. He should run with the ball if nobody’s open, but he definitely can’t run with the ball.
Flacco should have the awareness of Roethlisberger, the elusiveness of Vick, the control of the offense of Manning, the leadership of Brady, the accuracy of Brees, and the arm strength of … Flacco? - Ampallang
Ben's a tough one to "kill", don't ya think?
This injury will be with Ben 4 the rest of the season. If anyone can play through the pain, its Big Ben Roethlisberger! We need the win against SF, so that when the Ravens lose to the Bengals at Cincinatti to end the regular season. Pittsburgh will then be the AFC #1 Seed.
But thanks again for your concern. TY Mr. Malor!
by steeler fever on Dec 10, 2011 3:00 PM EST up reply actions
Woodley...
I knew it was too early for him to play. His hammy is more than likely done for the year. His push will not be the same. Just my opinion, not tryin to jinx him. Although I truly believe we have something special with Worilds. Another prediction… We should all be Charger fans this week, more than likely after this week false playoff hopes will be brewing for them. I’m predicting the Ravens losing to both the Chargers and the Bengals.
by sweedemotions on Dec 10, 2011 4:59 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Something to say? Choose one of these options to log in.
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
"Thoughtful discussion with a sense of history."
Art Rooney Jr.
"Level-headed thinking." Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Related FanPosts on Behind the Steel Curtain
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
SBNation.com Recent Stories
In Association With
Shutdown Corner - NFL - Yahoo! Sports
- Former high-school star Brian Banks does serious time on trumped-up charge, now hopes for an NFL shot
- Former ‘idiot kicker’ Mike Vanderjagt in trouble after accosting junior-high heckler
- Adrian Peterson blows teammates away in footraces; appears to be on the mend
- UPDATE: Charlie Sheen didn’t buy Lawrence Taylor’s Super Bowl ring
- Alex Smith gets blown up by Jon Beason over Cam Newton comments
