Who wins the Backup QB job? Josh Dobbs vs Mason Rudolph

[polamalubeast]

I don't want to overreact but not a good start for Dobbs...

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[Edman]

Rudolph was further along than Dobbs as a rookie, so the edge goes to him.

If Rudolph shows any progression this season, the Dobbs story is over.

[polamalubeast]

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[DesertSteel]

Dobbs will always be remembered as the QB who kept Ben on the sidelines because Tomlin didn't want to stop Dobbs' momentum!

[hawaiiansteeler]

Dobbs will always be remembered as the QB who kept Ben on the sidelines because Tomlin didn't want to stop Dobbs' momentum!

yeah, Dobbs was playing too well to put our future Hall of Fame QB back into the game :rolleyes3:

[polamalubeast]

yeah, Dobbs was playing too well to put our future Hall of Fame QB back into the game :rolleyes3:

Tomlin did this same bullshit in 2015, when he put Ben in uniform against the Browns, but Landry Jones started this game because Ben had an injury the week before!

Unfortunately for Jones but fortunately for the steelers, Jones has had a injury early in the game,so it allowed for Ben to have a record for the yards in a game in NFL history for a Backup QB!

[FrancoLambert]

It better be Rudolph based on his draft pedigree.

[polamalubeast]

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[polamalubeast]

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[86WARD]

Tomlin did this same bullshit in 2015, when he put Ben in uniform against the Browns, but Landry Jones started this game because Ben had an injury the week before!

Unfortunately for Jones but fortunately for the steelers, Jones has had a injury early in the game,so it allowed for Ben to have a record for the yards in a game in NFL history for a Backup QB!

That’s the arrogance of Tomlin thinking his team with a back up QB is better than another NFL team...the arrogance that gets him in trouble more times than not...lol

[polamalubeast]

That’s the arrogance of Tomlin thinking his team with a back up QB is better than another NFL team...the arrogance that gets him in trouble more times than not...lol

Fortunately for Tomlin, the Browns were silly enough to not change their gameplan in defense when Ben has entered this game!

I mean, when Jones started the game, the game plan of the Browns was to stop Williams with 8 man in the BOX, but when Ben got into this game, no adjustment for the Browns, so Antonio Brown and Martavis Bryant were often one against one against their corner and Ben had over 270 yards in the first half!

[polamalubeast]

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[hawaiiansteeler]

James C Wexell
@jimwexell

Through 7 Shots and first Team scrimmage today, the beast is JuJu, and impressive showings by OLB Ola, WR Spencer and QB Rudolph.

https://twitter.com/jimwexell?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7 Ctwgr%5Eauthor

[polamalubeast]

Another INT for Dobbs

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[86WARD]

Another INT for Dobbs

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Camp sleeper...maybe Dobbs in just another Dennis Dixon or just another Tee Martin who lasted a little longer...but then Tee Martin was drafted before Tom Brady...

[polamalubeast]

– I’ll have to tally up Dobbs’ numbers from the first two days but rest assured they aren’t pretty. The QB on all three interceptions through the first two days. Not all his fault but still not loving his accuracy and ball placement to all areas of the field. Rudolph hasn’t “wowed” either but he’s been better of the two. Long ways to go though, to be fair. Battle is determined in late August, not late July.

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/07/2019-steelers-training-camp-diary-day-two/

[Edman]

What is going to hurt Dobbs in the long run is inconsistency. Rudolph has the edge over Dobbs for that alone.

So it depends on what you want. The guy with athletic ability to dazzle and make plays, or the guy who isn't as exciting, but is more sound as a QB?

[polamalubeast]

Another interception for Dobbs,this time by Artie Burns.

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- - - Updated - - -

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2 TD for Rudolph

Dobbs had also 1 TD to JuJu in the first play

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[polamalubeast]

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[hawaiiansteeler]

if Dobbs doesn't pick it up I could see Mason #2 and the Steelers keeping Devlin Hodges as the #3 and releasing Dobbs.

[polamalubeast]

if Dobbs doesn't pick it up I could see Mason #2 and the Steelers keeping Devlin Hodges as the #3 and releasing Dobbs.

Yeah,he is just awful right now...Players like Dobbs need to be good even in practice if he wants to stay in the NFL.

[Born2Steel]

No love for Devlin Hodges?

[BlackAndGold]

No love for Devlin Hodges?

He seems to be playing well. I hope the coaches give him a shot.

[polamalubeast]

He seems to be playing well. I hope the coaches give him a shot.

He should play .... I mean, 2 years ago, Bart Houston played some game in the preseason even if he had no chance to make the team.

[BlackAndGold]

He should play .... I mean, 2 years ago, Bart Houston played some game in the preseason even if he had no chance to make the team.

He should but I expect Rudolph and Dobbs to see a lot of PT due to their age and draft pedigree.

Preseason can't come fast enough.

[polamalubeast]

– Still seeing Josh Dobbs struggle. Some of the basic accuracy is just amiss. Missing more than he should and he’s gotta start picking things up. Lots of reps today with Ben out and he didn’t take advantage.

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/07/2019-steelers-training-camp-diary-day-three/

[polamalubeast]

He should but I expect Rudolph and Dobbs to see a lot of PT due to their age and draft pedigree.

Preseason can't come fast enough.

If we rely on the preseason last year,I think Dobbs and Rudolph are going to have a lot of pass attempts in their games, which they need if we want to evaluate them.

It was a problem with Todd Haley in the preseason ... At every preseason, whether with Landry Jones or other backup QB, the playcalling was often run, run and pass because it was a 3rd down and long and when the steelers had a pass attempts in the first 2 down, it was a screen ... So it was very difficult to evaluate .... But last year, Fitchner gave the opportunity to them.

[Edman]

Third Round QB in a deep quarterback class (2018, Rudolph) vs Fourth Round QB in a weak quarterback class (2017, Dobbs).

One has looked good his rookie year, while the other struggled a bit.

Advantage Rudolph.

[polamalubeast]

Third Round QB in a deep quarterback class (2018, Rudolph) vs Fourth Round QB in a weak quarterback class (2017, Dobbs).

One has looked good his rookie year, while the other struggled a bit.

Advantage Rudolph.

I think Rudolph is a better QB than Dobbs, but the 2017 draft were not a weak draft for the QB, especially not with Mahomes and Watson.Both are the real deal.

[polamalubeast]

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[polamalubeast]

Quarterback

– Up and down this group. Yesterday was a rather ugly day across the board. Mason Rudolph has been better than Josh Dobbs. Really to all areas of the field but he’s showing more accuracy on the “easy” throws underneath and his placement/touch deep downfield. Dobbs was a little better yesterday and he can make impressive plays but he’s felt too scattershot with his accuracy to all levels of the field. Devlin Hodges is better than your typical #4 QB but let’s pump the brakes on anything more than that.

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/07/2019-steelers-training-camp-initial-thoughts/

[Edman]

– Up and down this group. Yesterday was a rather ugly day across the board. Mason Rudolph has been better than Josh Dobbs. Really to all areas of the field but he’s showing more accuracy on the “easy” throws underneath and his placement/touch deep downfield. Dobbs was a little better yesterday and he can make impressive plays but he’s felt too scattershot with his accuracy to all levels of the field. Devlin Hodges is better than your typical #4 QB but let’s pump the brakes on anything more than that.

When you read between the lines here, it sounds like the author is trying to cover for Dobbs by denigrating the whole group of QB's. An ugly day across the board, but doesn't name any specific examples of Rudolph sucking. If anything Rudolph will win the #2 spot on that alone. Making the "easy" throws is something not even most starters can do in the league.

Sounds like Dobbs has been subpar, while Rudolph has been competent at best.

"Scattershot Quarterback who can make big plays" isn't a recipe for success in the NFL. That sounds like a lot of 7-10 win seasons who hopes of being good, but never reaching that potential. That's a type of quarterback poor franchises like the Browns and Lions fall in love with.

We'll see when the real game action begins.

[polamalubeast]

When you read between the lines here, it sounds like the author is trying to cover for Dobbs by denigrating the whole group of QB's. An ugly day across the board, but doesn't name any specific examples of Rudolph sucking. If anything Rudolph will win the #2 spot on that alone. Making the "easy" throws is something not even most starters can do in the league.

Sounds like Dobbs has been subpar, while Rudolph has been competent at best.

"Scattershot Quarterback who can make big plays" isn't a recipe for success in the NFL. That sounds like a lot of 7-10 win seasons who hopes of being good, but never reaching that potential. That's a type of quarterback poor franchises like the Browns and Lions fall in love with.

Yeah, one of the most important things in the NFL for a QB is to make the good decision and find the receiver who is open.... It's important to be able to make big play (one of reasons why I would never take Alex Smith as my QB) but a QB must be able to also make the right decisions,read the defense well and make the routine throw!

His things are very important for a QB.

[polamalubeast]

The steelers only had 4 practices, but no way, Rudolph will not be our backup QB this year .... It would take a disaster for Rudolph to lose his job.

The practices are important ... Of course, when you're good in practice, not guaranteed you'll be good in the games, but if you're awful in practice, it's almost guaranteed you'll be bad in games. ... Maybe not in pre season but in the games in the regular season if you have to play because of a injury at Ben.

[Craic]

Funny how people pick and choose the reports that fit already set narratives. Dobbs also threw for two TDs, one of them a very nice throw to the TE in the back of the endzone. Rudolph also threw for two TDs. Source: Tunch and Wolf.

EDIT: I'm not saying Dobbs is better. Just that it is funny how things are reported.

[hawaiiansteeler]

La Canfora Thinks Steelers ‘May Be In A Position’ To Get Trade Compensation For Joshua Dobbs

By Matthew Marczi
Posted on July 30, 2019

Are you looking for a reason to believe that the Pittsburgh Steelers would never in a million years trade Joshua Dobbs? Well then you’re in luck, because I have one for you: Jason La Canfora recently suggested that he believes it’s a possibility. Given his track record, one can assume that Dobbs should be in line for an extension shortly.

La Canfora went on The Fan yesterday speaking with Andrew Fillipponi and Chris Mueller to discuss the Steelers’ training camp so far, and at one point in the conversation, it turned to the quarterback position. “I think they may be in a position where they can get a decent draft pick for Josh Dobbs”, he told his hosts.

to read rest of article:

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/07/la-canfora-thinks-steelers-may-be-in-a-position-to-get-trade-compensation-for-joshua-dobbs/

[Steelerchad]

It has to be Rudolph. Dobbs will never be an NFL starter. Rudolph could be the guy for the next decade when Ben retires.

[Steeler-in-west]

Dobbs had that terrible showing against Oakland and Rudolph is a complete unknown, so just from that I know Rudolph has the edge (I’m guessing in the minds of the coaches). I think it’s his to lose.

It being a crucial year, I wish we had a veteran backup such as a Charlie Batch or dare I say even Landry Jones...

[Edman]

Dobbs had that terrible showing against Oakland and Rudolph is a complete unknown, so just from that I know Rudolph has the edge (I’m guessing in the minds of the coaches). I think it’s his to lose.

It being a crucial year, I wish we had a veteran backup such as a Charlie Batch or dare I say even Landry Jones...

The Steelers' Super Bowl window closed in 2017. Keeping a guy like Landry who clearly isn't the future would be pointless. The loss of AB makes this even more apparent that this year is strictly playing out the string for the future, which is why I believe fans should keep their expectations on 2019 tempered.

I'll say it right now: This isn't a Super Bowl team. It isn't even a playoff team. It's a team bracing itself for the inevitable transition, and they want it to go as smoothly as possible. Yeah, team chemistry and togetherness and all that, but outside of Ben, this is a team of complete unknowns and unprovens and no real team identity at all.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Rumor: Joshua Dobbs could be a trade chip for Steelers

by Tyler Jordan
July 29, 2019

https://clutchpoints.com/steelers-rumors-joshua-dobbs-could-be-trade-chip-for-pittsburgh/

[BlackAndGold]

Hodges will have to show well for the Steelers to move on from Dobbs Imo.

The Steelers are serious about their 3 QB's.

[Steeler-in-west]

The Steelers' Super Bowl window closed in 2017. Keeping a guy like Landry who clearly isn't the future would be pointless. The loss of AB makes this even more apparent that this year is strictly playing out the string for the future, which is why I believe fans should keep their expectations on 2019 tempered.

I'll say it right now: This isn't a Super Bowl team. It isn't even a playoff team. It's a team bracing itself for the inevitable transition, and they want it to go as smoothly as possible. Yeah, team chemistry and togetherness and all that, but outside of Ben, this is a team of complete unknowns and unprovens and no real team identity at all.

I disagree, I think this team is better than last year, defense wise, and probably offense wise as well.

[polamalubeast]

The Steelers' Super Bowl window closed in 2017. Keeping a guy like Landry who clearly isn't the future would be pointless. The loss of AB makes this even more apparent that this year is strictly playing out the string for the future, which is why I believe fans should keep their expectations on 2019 tempered.

I'll say it right now: This isn't a Super Bowl team. It isn't even a playoff team. It's a team bracing itself for the inevitable transition, and they want it to go as smoothly as possible. Yeah, team chemistry and togetherness and all that, but outside of Ben, this is a team of complete unknowns and unprovens and no real team identity at all.

The steelers play to win every year, nothing has changed for them.

For the Super Bowl window, we never know .... Sometimes the steelers had a great season, even if the expectations were very low before the season (back in 2004, when the steelers were 26th in the power rankings by espn before the season, but they finished 15-1) or other year, the steelers had big expectations but they were a disappointment (as the whole killer B's era) .... So we will just have to focus on the present moment instead of predicting where that the steelers will finish or things like that.

[SteelersNorth]

It has to be Rudolph. Dobbs will never be an NFL starter. Rudolph could be the guy for the next decade when Ben retires.

WOW!
There's no way Rudolph is the next guy.
That guy won't be found UNTIL after Ben is gone and those years will be lean.

[SteelersNorth]

The Steelers' Super Bowl window closed in 2017. Keeping a guy like Landry who clearly isn't the future would be pointless. The loss of AB makes this even more apparent that this year is strictly playing out the string for the future, which is why I believe fans should keep their expectations on 2019 tempered.

I'll say it right now: This isn't a Super Bowl team. It isn't even a playoff team. It's a team bracing itself for the inevitable transition, and they want it to go as smoothly as possible. Yeah, team chemistry and togetherness and all that, but outside of Ben, this is a team of complete unknowns and unprovens and no real team identity at all.

Landry Jones was cut after 2017 so I'm not sure what he has to do with this season.
AB is a joke. Super talented and looked great along side Ben but he wanted his money and he got it now his career will look like Mike Wallace's.

The inevitable transition will be when you know Ben is playing out the last year of his deal. Otherwise as it stands (not saying it can't change) since his play hasn't dropped off they'll be in it to win it.

[polamalubeast]

WOW!
There's no way Rudolph is the next guy.
That guy won't be found UNTIL after Ben is gone and those years will be lean.

And I do not even know if our future QB after Ben is in college right now .... We do not know how much time left for Ben, but this is a topic we've been talking about for at least 5 years .... Many did not think that Roethlisberger was going to play his entire contract that he had back in 2015, but that's the case ... Easier for a QB to have a longer longevity now if the QB stays healthy.His injuries in the 2015 season were more of a fluke and bad luck.

[SteelersNorth]

And I do not even know if our future QB after Ben is in college right now .... We do not know how much time left for Ben, but this is a topic we've been talking about for at least 5 years .... Many did not think that Roethlisberger was going to play his entire contract that he had back in 2015, but that's the case ... Easier for a QB to have a longer longevity now if the QB stays healthy.His injuries in the 2015 season were more of a fluke and bad luck.

i wouldn't go that far saying its been like that for 5 years that's a bit of a stretch.
Yes 2015 was when Barron went low and he had the MCL sprain and missed 4 games.

[polamalubeast]

Dobbs is awful....For Rudolph,he need to be more aggressive, not always go to the checkdown..He is way too safe,but he is the number 2 QB right now because Dobbs is just awful.

Quarterbacks

Ben Roethlisberger: 35/50 (70%) 406 yards (11.6 YPC) 5 TDs 1 INT
Mason Rudolph: 35/48 (72.9%), 238 yards (6.8 YPC) 6 TDs 1 INT
Josh Dobbs: 19/47 (40.4%), 168 yards (8.8 YPC) 2 TDs 4 INTs
Devlin Hodges: 19/26 (73.1%) 158 yards (8.3 YPC) 0 TDs 1 INT

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/07/2019-steelers-training-camp-stats-first-four-practices/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[SteelersNorth]

Dobbs is awful....For Rudolph,he need to be more aggressive, not always go to the checkdown..He is way too safe,but he is the number 2 QB right now because Dobbs is just awful.

Quarterbacks

Ben Roethlisberger: 35/50 (70%) 406 yards (11.6 YPC) 5 TDs 1 INT
Mason Rudolph: 35/48 (72.9%), 238 yards (6.8 YPC) 6 TDs 1 INT
Josh Dobbs: 19/47 (40.4%), 168 yards (8.8 YPC) 2 TDs 4 INTs
Devlin Hodges: 19/26 (73.1%) 158 yards (8.3 YPC) 0 TDs 1 INT

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/07/2019-steelers-training-camp-stats-first-four-practices/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

you do realize this is in practice right...and literally proves nothing

[polamalubeast]

you do realize this is in practice right...and literally proves nothing

Being good in the practices guaranteed nothing, but being bad in the practices for a QB, it is almost certain you will be bad during the games ... Maybe not in the preseason, but during the regular season if you have to play.

[polamalubeast]

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[86WARD]

1156155259749670913

They should take whatever they could get.

[hawaiiansteeler]

They should take whatever they could get.

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51-MX5K8-fL.jpg

[DesertSteel]

WOW!
There's no way Rudolph is the next guy.
That guy won't be found UNTIL after Ben is gone and those years will be lean.
Based on what??

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

I disagree, I think this team is better than last year, defense wise, and probably offense wise as well. Agree with you totally and can't understand the negativity when preseason hasn't even started.

[steel striker]

I'm pulling for Mason and, i though he has a pretty strong arm hopefully he will play better.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Reason for Rudolph's progress in question but the results aren't

By JIM WEXELL
Tue Jul 30 2019

https://247sports.com/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/Article/Reason-for-Rudolphs-progress-in-question-but-the-results-arent-134055595

[polamalubeast]

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[polamalubeast]

– The one thing Dobbs is doing well is driving the football downfield. Better than Rudolph overall. That does lend itself to more risks, a lower completion rate, though I still believe Rudolph has been better through the first six practices. This battle isn’t over yet. Long ways to go before those decisions need to be made.

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/08/2019-steelers-training-camp-diary-day-six/

[BlackAndGold]

– The one thing Dobbs is doing well is driving the football downfield. Better than Rudolph overall. That does lend itself to more risks, a lower completion rate, though I still believe Rudolph has been better through the first six practices. This battle isn’t over yet. Long ways to go before those decisions need to be made.

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/08/2019-steelers-training-camp-diary-day-six/

Down the field throws have always been one of Dobbs strengths. It's the throws in the middle of the field or 10 yards out where he struggles with accuracy.

[polamalubeast]

Josh Dobbs is a complete mess. His accuracy was suspect, there were a few plays where he just completely overthrew his guy. He overthrew Xavier Grimble on one play and Steven Nelson picked it off. I’m not impressed by him at all.

Mason Rudolph looks slightly better than Dobbs. He’s taken a step forward. He seems more comfortable in the pocket and goes through his progressions now. However, he goes through those progressions at a snail’s pace, the pressure always gets there.

I really like what I saw out of Devlin Hodges. He has a great feel for touch and has great ball placement. He made a few pretty throws due to that touch. He was the big winner of those backup QBs today.

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/08/farabaugh-training-camp-observations-day-six/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[Born2Steel]

https://samfordsports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6202

Stats don't tell the story obviously but Hodges threw the ball A LOT in college.(About 50 times per game) He has more INTs than you would like but more TDs than you would expect. If he can play ST he may make the 53 as a backup QB and utility player ala Taysom Hill for the Saints.

[polamalubeast]

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[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Reason for Rudolph's progress in question but the results aren't

By JIM WEXELL
Tue Jul 30 2019

https://247sports.com/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/Article/Reason-for-Rudolphs-progress-in-question-but-the-results-arent-134055595

Good article. Like Rudolph says about having another set of eyes on his technique, footwork mechanics...

I thought his mechanics were a little messed up in a couple areas in his draft year, so maybe this offseason work helps him with consistency and accuracy in the intermediate routes. Kid has a great attitude, leadership qualities, size, college production, etc. Some thought of him as a 2nd round value, so would like to see him progress to that over time.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Dobbs Vs Rudolph Battle Far From Over

By Alex Kozora
Posted on August 2, 2019

Through the first six practices, I know we’ve been particularly tough on Josh Dobbs. And that’s for good reason. He’s had an underwhelming start to camp and ask me to choose between him and Mason Rudolph, looking at only these first six days, and the choice is easy. Rudolph’s been better.

to read rest of article:

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/08/dobbs-vs-rudolph-battle-far-from-over/

[polamalubeast]

1157454589358198784

[polamalubeast]

1157472235688472576

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

1157472235688472576 He has a tough road ahead to make the team. Not to mention living up to wearing Bubby Bristers number!

[Rotorhead]

Unless we shop Dobbs for a trade

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Unless we shop Dobbs for a trade Steelers need to call 1-800-Gruden

[Born2Steel]

Unless we shop Dobbs for a trade

:yup:

[polamalubeast]

Great leadership by Ben.

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[teegre]

Steelers need to call 1-800-Gruden

He-he-he... I like that guy. Tomlin said he wants volunteers, and Dobbs was a Volunteer in college. Plus, Dobbs is like a space science guy... four plus four & Klingons & stuff. How many R1 picks we got next year???

[86WARD]

He-he-he... I like that guy. Tomlin said he wants volunteers, and Dobbs was a Volunteer in college. Plus, Dobbs is like a space science guy... four plus four & Klingons & stuff. How many R1 picks we got next year???

Lol. You’re not always “all there”...lol

[polamalubeast]

Colbert Comments On Battle So Far Between Dobbs, Rudolph For No. 2 QB Job

“Well, just to go back last year at this time Landry [Jones] was our clear number two from the previous season and Joshua put together a great preseason and won the number two job,” Colbert said. “And I think Mason, having watched that, understands that, hey, I watched a guy do that, why can’t I do it? So, he and Joshua are going through a real good competition and they’ll get their work in the preseason because Ben will just get what he needs and those other two they’ll sort it out and fight it out. And so far it’s been good.”

According to our own Alex Kozora and his daily training camp reports, Rudolph has been the better of the two quarterbacks to date. That said, Kozora was careful to write just the other day that the battle between Rudolph and Dobbs is far from over. In his recent interview, Colbert pretty much echoed what all Kozora has written about the backup quarterback battle since training camp got underway at Saint Vincent College.

“Mason’s done some nice things, obviously still things he needs to work on,” Colbert said. “Joshua, Josh never really looks as good as he does in practice as he does in the games, because when you add that breakdown, when something’s not there and he can break a defense down with his running, it’s a whole different game. So, exciting for both of those two but I can’t tell you how it’ll sort out yet.”

read more

https://steelersdepot.com/2019/08/colbert-comments-on-battle-so-far-between-dobbs-rudolph-for-no-2-qb-job/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[polamalubeast]

1158736205187551236

[teegre]

Lol. You’re not always “all there”...lol

I tell you what, man... you know who’s not “all there” is AB. He’s got a foot fungus or he’s getting a pedicure or something. I don’t really know - it’s wild.

[hawaiiansteeler]

I tell you what, man... you know who’s not “all there” is AB. He’s got a foot fungus or he’s getting a pedicure or something. I don’t really know - it’s wild.

Simms: Antonio Brown’s got frostbitten feet in a cryotherapy machine

Posted by Mike Florio on August 6, 2019

https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/08/06/simms-antonio-browns-got-frostbitten-feet-in-a-cryotherapy-machine/

[polamalubeast]

1158850927253762048

[hawaiiansteeler]

Alex Kozora
@Alex_Kozora

Rudolph struggle to move offense in no huddle. Six straight plays with no completion. Kelly breaks up final pass.


that's only because our secondary is sooooo awesome! :yay3:

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

1158850927253762048 With all the talk about Rudolph taking over for Ben when he retires. Would be funny if Hodges ends up being the guy.

[polamalubeast]

With all the talk about Rudolph taking over for Ben when he retires. Would be funny if Hodges ends up being the guy.

The next QB for the steelers after Ben era is surely not on this roster right now ... The Steelers just need to not make the same mistake as in 1983 if they have the opportunity to have a special QB in a draft.

[86WARD]

The next QB for the steelers after Ben era is surely not on this roster right now ... The Steelers just need to not make the same mistake as in 1983 if they have the opportunity to have a special QB in a draft.

Sounding more and more like that’s the case.

[Edman]

The next QB for the steelers after Ben era is surely not on this roster right now ... The Steelers just need to not make the same mistake as in 1983 if they have the opportunity to have a special QB in a draft.

The Franchise Quarterback isn't the end-all be-all thing for team success. Everything has to come together for the Steelers to win. The Steelers have been to a Super Bowl without a "franchise" guy.

Just as how you can't win Super Bowls with Neil O'Donnells and Kordell Stewarts of the world, Dan Marino won nothing ever, Ben hasn't won anything of note in a decade. The Great Aaron Rodgers hasn't done anything in nearly as long. Patrick Mahomes crashed and burned in the playoffs despite his record-setting season.

If there is a special quarterback within reach of the Steelers, by all means take him, but that opportunity has to be there.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Patrick Mahomes crashed and burned in the playoffs despite his record-setting season.


you mean the game against the Cheatriots where he threw for 352 yards and 4 TDs?

[Edman]

you mean the game against the Cheatriots where he threw for 352 yards and 4 TDs?

Just like Ben threw for 5 touchdowns and 460+ yards against the Jaguars a January prior. Both results were the same: They lost. The Pats went on to the Super Bowl to represent the AFC. Again.

What I'm saying is that the franchise Quarterback is not the cure-all for Super Bowl wins.

[fansince'76]

you mean the game against the Cheatriots where he threw for 352 yards and 4 TDs?

Exactly. The reason the Chiefs lost that game was because they lost the OT coin flip.

Kinda funny how the Patriots always seem to win postseason coin flips, particularly against opponents with suspect defenses.
(see also: SB vs. Atlanta)

Also funny how the Brett Favre/Peyton Manning Playoff OT Rule that was meant to ensure that both teams get the ball at least once in overtime (because the old sudden death rule was soooooo unfair) has continually failed to do so.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

KC Lost the game after Brady was intercepted which would have ended the game. Refs had to call a meaningless neutral zone call. After that you knew Pats are guaranteed to win in OT!.

[polamalubeast]

The Franchise Quarterback isn't the end-all be-all thing for team success. Everything has to come together for the Steelers to win. The Steelers have been to a Super Bowl without a "franchise" guy.

Just as how you can't win Super Bowls with Neil O'Donnells and Kordell Stewarts of the world, Dan Marino won nothing ever, Ben hasn't won anything of note in a decade. The Great Aaron Rodgers hasn't done anything in nearly as long. Patrick Mahomes crashed and burned in the playoffs despite his record-setting season.

If there is a special quarterback within reach of the Steelers, by all means take him, but that opportunity has to be there.

If you have a very good QB with a very good roster, the chances are much better....Nothing is guaranteed but the odds are much better.

It was the first time in almost 50 years that the Chiefs had been close like that to go in the Super Bowl and Mahomes was the reason why ... Mahomes and the Chiefs had no control over the Coin toss.

- - - Updated - - -


Exactly. The reason the Chiefs lost that game was because they lost the OT coin flip.

Kinda funny how the Patriots always seem to win postseason coin flips, particularly against opponents with suspect defenses.
(see also: SB vs. Atlanta)

Also funny how the Brett Favre/Peyton Manning Playoff OT Rule that was meant to ensure that both teams get the ball at least once in overtime (because the old sudden death rule was soooooo unfair) has continually failed to do so.

In the Brady era, yes the Pats have won 3 times the coin toss in the playoffs (vs OAK in 2001,2016 vs ATL and 2018 vs KC) and 3 times, the opponents have not had the ball once ... .

It's a stupid rule!

[polamalubeast]

1159119748568899587

[SteelersNorth]

The Franchise Quarterback isn't the end-all be-all thing for team success. Everything has to come together for the Steelers to win. The Steelers have been to a Super Bowl without a "franchise" guy.

Just as how you can't win Super Bowls with Neil O'Donnells and Kordell Stewarts of the world, Dan Marino won nothing ever, Ben hasn't won anything of note in a decade. The Great Aaron Rodgers hasn't done anything in nearly as long. Patrick Mahomes crashed and burned in the playoffs despite his record-setting season.

If there is a special quarterback within reach of the Steelers, by all means take him, but that opportunity has to be there.


The most overrated QB in NFL history is good not 'great' and he doesn't exactly elevate his team. But hey, you've been force fed otherwise so it makes sense.

You're right though the Steelers have been to A Super Bowl without a franchise guy and how'd that turn out?
FYI the Steelers DO NOT make XL without Ben nor do they win XLIII without Ben...he was the difference is both cases but I'm sure you already knew that lol

[fansince'76]

The Franchise Quarterback isn't the end-all be-all thing for team success. Everything has to come together for the Steelers to win. The Steelers have been to a Super Bowl without a "franchise" guy.

Just as how you can't win Super Bowls with Neil O'Donnells and Kordell Stewarts of the world, Dan Marino won nothing ever, Ben hasn't won anything of note in a decade. The Great Aaron Rodgers hasn't done anything in nearly as long. Patrick Mahomes crashed and burned in the playoffs despite his record-setting season.

If there is a special quarterback within reach of the Steelers, by all means take him, but that opportunity has to be there.

The most overrated QB in NFL history is good not 'great' and he doesn't exactly elevate his team.

Speaking of which, he's already bitching and moaning about the new HC...


When Green Bay hired LaFleur, a 39-year-old who had just come off a one-year stint as the coordinator of the 25th-ranked offense in the NFL, many questions were raised.

One of those questions was whether Rodgers, a Super Bowl winner and two-time league MVP, would respect the guidance of his new coach.

Green Bay hasn’t played its first game of the preseason, and Rodgers is already publicly questioning LaFleur’s decisions.

Rodgers: Drills not ‘very smart’

Rodgers expressed general displeasure for the joint practice, but saved particularly biting remarks for kickoff drills he deemed unsafe.



https://sports.yahoo.com/aaron-rodgers-not-happy-with-matt-la-fleurs-joint-practices-drills-not-very-smart-044642032.html

But hey, at least he's not hurting his teammates' feelings on the radio...

[polamalubeast]

Speaking of which, he's already bitching and moaning about the new HC...



https://sports.yahoo.com/aaron-rodgers-not-happy-with-matt-la-fleurs-joint-practices-drills-not-very-smart-044642032.html

But hey, at least he's not hurting his teammates' feelings on the radio...

If Ben is one of the players with the most to prove in the NFL in 2019 (because he has no AB, but Ben had a lot of success before AB becomes a star) Rodgers needs to be on this list after a 6-9-1 season ...

1158107067271585793

[fansince'76]

If Ben is one of the players with the most to prove in the NFL in 2019 (because he has no AB, but Ben had a lot of success before AB becomes a star) Rodgers needs to be on this list after a 6-9-1 season ...

1158107067271585793

Blasphemy! Mr. "God's-Gift-to-Quarterbacking" has nothing to prove! It was all McCarthy's fault! :sarcasm:

[SteelersNorth]

If Ben is one of the players with the most to prove in the NFL in 2019 (because he has no AB, but Ben had a lot of success before AB becomes a star) Rodgers needs to be on this list after a 6-9-1 season ...

1158107067271585793

EXACTLY!!!!!!
Stats are fantastic don't get me wrong but there comes a point and time where if you aren't winning they become irrelevant. I could list you a plethora of things Ben has done that if Rodgers had even done one of them it would be the greatest thing of all time by a QB.
To me they way he's promoted like some 'GOD' among men and he's literally head, shoulders, and feet above everyone else it doesn't exactly translate that way on the field. Being as 'talented' as he supposedly is shouldn't he make those around him better? Personally I don't think he does. Plus like you just said how can he go 6-9-1 if he's Aaron FUCKING Rodgers?
oh he played hurt...sure every guy does so that's not an excuse. To me if you play there's no excuse.
no defense....Ben hasn't had a defense since 2011 and hasn't gone SUB 500 ever so moving on
no run game...Ben had the STUD Johnathan Dwyer for a year...Issac Redman...pure rushing title winners lol
the above examples are to protect Rodgers and his standing as the 'best' its a joke and actually pisses me off as a fan.
People need to see the light that yes I agree he's good but he ain't THAT GOOD.

- - - Updated - - -


Blasphemy! Mr. "God's-Gift-to-Quarterbacking" has nothing to prove! It was all McCarthy's fault! :sarcasm:

well said lol

[polamalubeast]

Ben Roethlisberger has proven that he can win so many ways in his career ... Ben will probably overtake Dan Marino and John Elway in his career...The only thing that Ben needs to prove in 2019 is that he's still a great QB at 37 years old, but this is the case for every old QB

I do not care what ignorants like Max Kellerman in espn think of Ben.

- - - Updated - - -

1159176850838564864

It's an interesting tweet too, but I hope it's since 2004 and not since 2010, since it would not mean much otherwise.

But I believe that Ben's winning percentage was over 70% before 2010, so it's possible that's true.

[SteelersNorth]

Ben Roethlisberger has proven that he can win so many ways in his career ... Ben will probably overtake Dan Marino and John Elway in his career...The only thing that Ben needs to prove in 2019 is that he's still a great QB at 37 years old, but this is the case for every old QB

I do not care what ignorants like Max Kellerman in espn think of Ben.

- - - Updated - - -

1159176850838564864

It's an interesting tweet too, but I hope it's since 2004 and not since 2010, since it would not mean much otherwise.

But I believe that Ben's winning percentage was over 70% before 2010, so it's possible that's true.

Would have to do slightly more research to see which games Ben played and he didn't but in 2010 Brown played in 9 games
2012 Brown missed 3
2016 missed 1 the finale same as Ben
2017 finale 2 and 3/4s as he got hurt at the start of the 2nd quarter against the Pats and the Steelers went 3-0
2018...why did he miss the finale again? lol

[polamalubeast]

Would have to do slightly more research to see which games Ben played and he didn't but in 2010 Brown played in 9 games
2012 Brown missed 3
2016 missed 1 the finale same as Ben
2017 finale 2 and 3/4s as he got hurt at the start of the 2nd quarter against the Pats and the Steelers went 3-0
2018...why did he miss the finale again? lol

He said AB in the Starting lineup.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Ben Roethlisberger has proven that he can win so many ways in his career ... Ben will probably overtake Dan Marino and John Elway in his career...The only thing that Ben needs to prove in 2019 is that he's still a great QB at 37 years old, but this is the case for every old QB

I do not care what ignorants like Max Kellerman in espn think of Ben.

- - - Updated - - -

1159176850838564864

It's an interesting tweet too, but I hope it's since 2004 and not since 2010, since it would not mean much otherwise.

But I believe that Ben's winning percentage was over 70% before 2010, so it's possible that's true.

Some guy tweeting about win percentages about 1 QB and 1WR of a TEAM GAME is a joke IMO. If they were comparing Tennis Doubles teams, then fine...but there are 45 players active on gameday for an NFL game.

[polamalubeast]

Some guy tweeting about win percentages about 1 QB and 1WR of a TEAM GAME is a joke IMO. If they were comparing Tennis Doubles teams, then fine...but there are 45 players active on gameday for an NFL game.

QB's position is the most important position in the NFL

I put this tweet just in response for those who think (like some in espn) that Ben is one of the players with the most to prove in the 2019 season ... Ben has one of the best winning percentages in NFL history and he has never had a losing season after 15 seasons ... For a QB doing this in the NFL with so many roster, WR different you need to be great ... It's a joke that Ben is on this list since he has prove so many things in 15 years.He can win in so different way .... He is on this list because some think Ben has to prove he can win without AB, but he did that before AB was a star ... The only thing that Ben needs to prove in 2019 is that he is still a very good QB at 37 years old, but it's the same for all the old QBs.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

QB's position is the most important position in the NFL

I put this tweet just in response for those who think (like some in espn) that Ben is one of the players with the most to prove in the 2019 season ... Ben has one of the best winning percentages in NFL history and he has never had a losing season after 15 seasons ... For a QB doing this in the NFL with so many roster, WR different you need to be great ... It's a joke that Ben is on this list since he has prove so many things in 15 years.He can win in so different way .... He is on this list because some think Ben has to prove he can win without AB, but he did that before AB was a star ... The only thing that Ben needs to prove in 2019 is that he is still a very good QB at 37 years old, but it's the same for all the old QBs.

I think Ben is on the list in that some think he has to prove he can not be a jerk that other star players on the Steelers offense choose to avoid. Also to prove he can avoid calling out teammates on his radio show and keep it in the locker room.

I don't think anybody is questioning his ability, as the credentials he has posted over his career are certainly worthy of a mustard color jacket in Canton. I find it amusing when reporters say "all the pressure is on Ben to perform". I don't think any veteran QB with HOF credentials feels any pressure.

[Fire Goodell]

If Ben is one of the players with the most to prove in the NFL in 2019 (because he has no AB, but Ben had a lot of success before AB becomes a star) Rodgers needs to be on this list after a 6-9-1 season ...

1158107067271585793

Lamar Jackson, the winged god of mediocre qb'ing

[polamalubeast]

I think Ben is on the list in that some think he has to prove he can not be a jerk that other star players on the Steelers offense choose to avoid. Also to prove he can avoid calling out teammates on his radio show and keep it in the locker room.

I don't think anybody is questioning his ability, as the credentials he has posted over his career are certainly worthy of a mustard color jacket in Canton. I find it amusing when reporters say "all the pressure is on Ben to perform". I don't think any veteran QB with HOF credentials feels any pressure.

Ben made a mistake at his radio show, but many exaggerated saying that Ben has always been a bad teammate because of that... It's not even true....The comments of Brown, Josh Harris and others have been a little too far.

Even James Harrison who has been a teammate with Ben for almost 13 seasons said in March that it's true that Roethlisberger was more close with his o-line that with his WRs but he was a good teammate.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YzYPDfKVXo

When Josh Harris said that Roethlisberger had intentionally fumble just for make Todd Haley look bad vs CIN(in week 17) in 2014, even Harrison has no memory of that play and it was not even a discussion in the locker room after this game.

[SteelersNorth]

I think Ben is on the list in that some think he has to prove he can not be a jerk that other star players on the Steelers offense choose to avoid. Also to prove he can avoid calling out teammates on his radio show and keep it in the locker room.

I don't think anybody is questioning his ability, as the credentials he has posted over his career are certainly worthy of a mustard color jacket in Canton. I find it amusing when reporters say "all the pressure is on Ben to perform". I don't think any veteran QB with HOF credentials feels any pressure.

You do realize Brown wanted out because he wanted more money and the Steelers weren't going to do that so he cried like the bitch receiver he is and got traded to the shit hole knows as da RRRAAAAIIIIDDDAAASSSS!
did i just say that...ooppsss! :peace:

[teegre]

EXACTLY!!!!!!
Stats are fantastic don't get me wrong but there comes a point and time where if you aren't winning they become irrelevant. I could list you a plethora of things Ben has done that if Rodgers had even done one of them it would be the greatest thing of all time by a QB.
To me they way he's promoted like some 'GOD' among men and he's literally head, shoulders, and feet above everyone else it doesn't exactly translate that way on the field. Being as 'talented' as he supposedly is shouldn't he make those around him better? Personally I don't think he does. Plus like you just said how can he go 6-9-1 if he's Aaron FUCKING Rodgers?
oh he played hurt...sure every guy does so that's not an excuse. To me if you play there's no excuse.
no defense....Ben hasn't had a defense since 2011 and hasn't gone SUB 500 ever so moving on
no run game...Ben had the STUD Johnathan Dwyer for a year...Issac Redman...pure rushing title winners lol
the above examples are to protect Rodgers and his standing as the 'best' its a joke and actually pisses me off as a fan.
People need to see the light that yes I agree he's good but he ain't THAT GOOD.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzBmQMyYDBk&app=desktop

[SteelersNorth]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzBmQMyYDBk&app=desktop

great movie haha

[polamalubeast]

When trying to understand why the Steelers have had so many mid-to-late-round receivers over the last decade, rarely if ever does anyone credit Roethlisberger for it. This year, he’ll have a chance to prove that he’s had something to do with the stellar performances of so many Steelers receivers.

read more

https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/08/09/ben-roethlisberger-is-excited-about-his-options-in-the-passing-game/

He should have the credit long time ago ... I know that Rodgers or others would have had the credit if it would happen to him ... By the way, his stats (Rodgers) like the YPA has dropped a lot since 2015, that's since Jordy Nelson's ACL torn in preseason in 2015 ... If it would have happened to Ben, he would not have had that excuse.Outside the end of the season in 2016, not very impressive the Packers offense in the last 4 years!

The only time the steelers have drafted a WR in the Roethlisberger era in the first round was in 2006 with Santonio Holmes .... The steelers have not even drafted an offensive player in the first round since 2012 !!! ... I have not checked that, but it may be the longest streak in the NFL without an offensive players drafted in the first round by a team.

[Edman]

Ben has more than a lot to prove in 2019.

For the first time in his career. He is truly “the man” on the Steelers. The elder statesman. The captain. The Leader.

No Todd Haley. No Antonio Brown. No Hines Ward. No “Veteran Presence”. Coaches have his back. He is THE guy. The light is on him. It’s up to Ben to prove that he makes the Steelers go, and that he is a team leader. Cleveland is emerging and are not only favorites to win the division, but go to the Super Bowl too.

First test is right there waiting for Ben and the Steelers in New England Week 1. Winning in New England for the first time since 1997 on their banner raising night will go a ways to destroying the narrative placed on Ben.

[polamalubeast]

Ben has more than a lot to prove in 2019.

For the first time in his career. He is truly “the man” on the Steelers. The elder statesman. The captain. The Leader.

No Todd Haley. No Antonio Brown. No Hines Ward. No “Veteran Presence”. Coaches have his back. He is THE guy. The light is on him. It’s up to Ben to prove that he makes the Steelers go, and that he is a team leader. Cleveland is emerging and are not only favorites to win the division, but go to the Super Bowl too.

First test is right there waiting for Ben and the Steelers in New England Week 1. Winning in New England for the first time since 1997 on their banner raising night will go a ways to destroying the narrative placed on Ben.

The Steelers are not a one man team ... If so, we have no chance like every NFL team ... The Pats won 6 SB with Brady but it was never a one man team .... In bold, Ben proved that in his entire career ... He just needs to prove he's still a great QB at 37 years old

For the game against the Pats, it takes an entire team effort to win at this place ... Many give credit to Eli Manning for defeating the Pats twice in the SB, but it was an entire team effort ...

1157923795212144641

[SteelersNorth]

Ben has more than a lot to prove in 2019.

For the first time in his career. He is truly “the man” on the Steelers. The elder statesman. The captain. The Leader.

No Todd Haley. No Antonio Brown. No Hines Ward. No “Veteran Presence”. Coaches have his back. He is THE guy. The light is on him. It’s up to Ben to prove that he makes the Steelers go, and that he is a team leader. Cleveland is emerging and are not only favorites to win the division, but go to the Super Bowl too.

First test is right there waiting for Ben and the Steelers in New England Week 1. Winning in New England for the first time since 1997 on their banner raising night will go a ways to destroying the narrative placed on Ben.

I'm really confused.
You do realize without Ben the last 16 seasons the Steelers have ZERO Super Bowls won let alone a sniff at appearances. And at BEST are an 8-8 team during their 'stellar' D times during this era.
Ben's been THE GUY since he started day 1 maybe you've missed a few games here and there but sans Ben they aren't even on the same level.

[polamalubeast]

1160010980568358912

[86WARD]

I think Rudolph looked far and away better than Dobbs.

[fansince'76]

I think Rudolph looked far and away better than Dobbs.

Agreed.

[Edman]

Rudolph looked like an NFL Quarterback.

Dobbs is right out of the mold of Kordell Stewart. Exciting but frustratingly inconsistent.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

I think Rudolph looked far and away better than Dobbs. Dobbs game improved when he used his legs and made the wrs more open after. Rudolph had a great game. The main take away is Washington was a beast and didn't matter who the QB was and he produced.

[Fire Goodell]

Rudolph - 1
Dobbs - 0

Still more games to play, but it did look like Rudolph was the better of the two today.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Rudolph - 1
Dobbs - 0

Still more games to play, but it did look like Rudolph was the better of the two today. I think Rudolph will prove to be better and win the 2 this season. That said it does not mean Dobbs is a bum and has no feature in the NFL. Ps. thanks for the 80's Bush laugh in the game day thread.

[Rotorhead]

Rudolph - 1
Dobbs - 0
Hodges - .5

I think Dobbs is trade bait if next week we have the same results.

[Fire Goodell]

I think Rudolph will prove to be better and win the 2 this season. That said it does not mean Dobbs is a bum and has no feature in the NFL. Ps. thanks for the 80's Bush laugh in the game day thread.

lol no problem, but i don't think i would have said that if teegre didn't say something like "bush is all over the place", i had to piggyback on that :chuckle:

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

lol no problem, but i don't think i would have said that if teegre didn't say something like "bush is all over the place", i had to piggyback on that :chuckle:Well there you go and you and Teegre are a great comedy team like Martin and Lewis or Farley and Spade.

[polamalubeast]

I always thought that if Rudolph has a good training camp and preseason game this year, this backup QB will be his no matter what Dobbs does ... The steelers had drafted Rudolph in the 3rd round even if Dobbs was on the roster...

Dobbs's biggest strength is his legs, but in the preseason, opponents do not make a gameplan for mobile QBs like in the regular season.

[polamalubeast]

1160030657046818816

[Edman]

Josh Dobbs is budget Roethlisberger. People want to pin the offensive line woes on him, but like Ben before him, he doesn't have a quick release and looks to improvise, and in worse case scenarios, looks to run when the first read isn't there. 2007-2011 Era Ben at his best, Kordell Stewart and Mike Vick at his worst. This is an absolute no-no for long term success in the NFL. Second or third teamers, this is a bad habit no matter who is out there. Dobbs can run. Good on him. He'll run his butt to the injury list and out of Pittsburgh in less than five years. If the Steelers didn't force Ben to adjust his style, he's retired by 2016, instead of still playing today.

Whenever I notice Rudolph drops back, the ball is out of his hands quickly on time and on target. In the long term, this will do nothing but help him. Rudolph's form and throwing motion is very Brady-esque. His touchdown throw to Gentry was sweet. Moves around in the pocket, and dropping a dime. Not pretty or exciting, but I'll take method over gambling the big play.

[Rotorhead]

Another plus to Rudolph, that back shoulder throw to the EZ was perfect placement, his accuracy is the best of the night. If he keeps that up I see Dobbs as the odd man out, especially if we can trade him.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Another plus to Rudolph, that back shoulder throw to the EZ was perfect placement, his accuracy is the best of the night. If he keeps that up I see Dobbs as the odd man out, especially if we can trade him. Dobbs is still a talent and will be on the team unless traded.

[DesertSteel]

Should it even be a question?

[pczach]

Josh Dobbs is budget Roethlisberger. People want to pin the offensive line woes on him, but like Ben before him, he doesn't have a quick release and looks to improvise, and in worse case scenarios, looks to run when the first read isn't there. 2007-2011 Era Ben at his best, Kordell Stewart and Mike Vick at his worst. This is an absolute no-no for long term success in the NFL. Second or third teamers, this is a bad habit no matter who is out there. Dobbs can run. Good on him. He'll run his butt to the injury list and out of Pittsburgh in less than five years. If the Steelers didn't force Ben to adjust his style, he's retired by 2016, instead of still playing today.

Whenever I notice Rudolph drops back, the ball is out of his hands quickly on time and on target. In the long term, this will do nothing but help him. Rudolph's form and throwing motion is very Brady-esque. His touchdown throw to Gentry was sweet. Moves around in the pocket, and dropping a dime. Not pretty or exciting, but I'll take method over gambling the big play.



Right......because Big Ben played behind all those dominant offensive lines his entire career. :rolleyes:

Some of the stuff you have been claiming to criticize Big Ben are just ridiculous. He walks into the HOF, but you have been dogging him on nearly every aspect of his game for months now.

[polamalubeast]

Right......because Big Ben played behind all those dominant offensive lines his entire career. :rolleyes:

Some of the stuff you have been claiming to criticize Big Ben are just ridiculous. He walks into the HOF, but you have been dogging him on nearly every aspect of his game for months now.

I would say for years....

[polamalubeast]

1160930842916589570

[86WARD]

1160930842916589570

Noticed that play too and said it in the game day thread. A lot of positives from Rudolph. He grew a lot in a year...and I feel like he grew past Dobbs on the depth chart.

[polamalubeast]

Noticed that play too and said it in the game day thread. A lot of positives from Rudolph. He grew a lot in a year...and I feel like he grew past Dobbs on the depth chart.

If Rudolph continues to play well, it's 100% certain he'll be our backup QB ... The steelers have drafted him in the 3rd round despite Dobbs was in our roster ... If the steelers had much confidence in Dobbs for the future, the steelers would have not drafted Rudolph.

I would not be surprised to see the steelers traded Dobbs after the pre-season game ... A team like the eagles lost their backup QB in their first preseason game and they might need a backup QB for the regular season.

[Edman]

Right......because Big Ben played behind all those dominant offensive lines his entire career. :rolleyes:

Some of the stuff you have been claiming to criticize Big Ben are just ridiculous. He walks into the HOF, but you have been dogging him on nearly every aspect of his game for months now.

I said absolutely nothing negative about Ben in that post and you’re fishing for something to complain about.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t particularly like Ben and I think he has underachieved, but here is not the case.

[polamalubeast]

I said absolutely nothing negative about Ben in that post and you’re fishing for something to complain about.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t particularly like Ben and I think he has underachieved, but here is not the case.

At the end of the season, Ben is going to have probably more regular season win in career than Marino and Elway, he's going to have over 60,000 yards if he stays healthy ... he's got a winning % right now at over 66%,he has also won in many ways in his career but he has underachieved? C'mon

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Noticed that play too and said it in the game day thread. A lot of positives from Rudolph. He grew a lot in a year...and I feel like he grew past Dobbs on the depth chart.

Yes, Rudolph has all the tools of a successful pocket passer. I thought his delivery and footwork from college and as a rookie had some hitches that would lead to lack of consistent accuracy, but his work with a QB coach in the offseason may have improved that.

The running ability of Dobbs leads him at times to look at the rush and just tuck the ball and run, because its his strongest asset. Rudolph has played the past 5+ years knowing that his arm talent is better than his leg talent, so he isn't going to run as much.

[pczach]

I said absolutely nothing negative about Ben in that post and you’re fishing for something to complain about.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t particularly like Ben and I think he has underachieved, but here is not the case.



I guess calling Dobbs a budget Roethlisberger is a compliment to you?

You also say that Ben doesn't have a quick release just like Dobbs and people blame the offensive line for poor blocking when it is really on the quarterback.

I'm not fishing for anything. You're a Ben hater and you constantly bash him.

I was just trying to point out your idiocy about judging quarterback play in a nice way. I figure now I'll just say it as it really is.


You don't know a thing about quarterback play.

Stop saying stupid stuff about football and I'll stop calling you on your bullshit.

How about that?

[86WARD]

Yes, Rudolph has all the tools of a successful pocket passer. I thought his delivery and footwork from college and as a rookie had some hitches that would lead to lack of consistent accuracy, but his work with a QB coach in the offseason may have improved that.

The running ability of Dobbs leads him at times to look at the rush and just tuck the ball and run, because its his strongest asset. Rudolph has played the past 5+ years knowing that his arm talent is better than his leg talent, so he isn't going to run as much.

Rudolph did a pretty nice job with his footwork and scrambling in game one. He’s not like a statue back there. He’s not a scrambling QB either but he did a good job of keeping plays alive and eyes downfield.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Rudolph did a pretty nice job with his footwork and scrambling in game one. He’s not like a statue back there. He’s not a scrambling QB either but he did a good job of keeping plays alive and eyes downfield.

Rudolph had a tendency to sail footballs high at times in College. It was evident in some preseason last year as well, but I recall the final drive vs Oklahoma he had a couple in a key moment and I think it was due to poor footwork technique. If his first read is the left seam and the next is the right flat, he wasn't great at moving his feet to get his base, and therefore his shoulders pointed in the right direction. He then threw with more arm than normal and less lower body, which I think made him less accurate.

He is a decent enough athlete to slide in the pocket and move to avoid the rush. I just want to see him square up to throw after that movement or going thru his progressions, which he appeared to do in limited action last week. Good signs IMO.

[Edman]

I guess calling Dobbs a budget Roethlisberger is a compliment to you?

You tell me. You're the one that is offended by it.


You also say that Ben doesn't have a quick release just like Dobbs and people blame the offensive line for poor blocking when it is really on the quarterback.

It's a little of both. You can look at all of the tape back then, and you can see the biggest knock on Roethlisberger was that he holds onto the ball forever. Especially under Bruce Arians. He's notably fixed it, and magically all of the sudden the sacks are down. Funny how that works.


I'm not fishing for anything. You're a Ben hater and you constantly bash him.

That's right. I don't worship at the altar of #7 that many Steelers fans have done for the better part of a decade. I see his advantages as well as his flaws, his crippling Favre-Like turnovers, annual greasefire performances (2017 Jacksonville, 2018 Cleveland), and leading the league in interceptions last season, and missing the playoffs after a 7-2-1 start, and many finding that acceptable because reasons.


Stop saying stupid stuff about football and I'll stop calling you on your bullshit. How about that?

You are free to say whatever you please. As far as Wrong opinions and criticizing your idol not being allowed...

...Nah.

Anyway. I still really like Rudolph and he has the inside track. We'll see next week.

[polamalubeast]

It's a little of both. You can look at all of the tape back then, and you can see the biggest knock on Roethlisberger was that he holds onto the ball forever. Especially under Bruce Arians. He's notably fixed it, and magically all of the sudden the sacks are down. Funny how that works.

Or our sacks started to be down when our o-line started to be solid (2014)

Just to look our starting lineup for our O-line in super bowl XLIII

Max Starks LT
Chris Kemoeatu LG
Justin Hartwig C
Darnell Stapleton RG
Willie Colon RT

Justin Hartwig was out of the league the minute the steelers drafted Pouncey, Chris Kemoeatu and Willie Colon were penalty machine and Darnell Stapleton was not only a rookie but it was his only year in the NFL!...Max Starks was our better players on this o-line

What about 2010

Jonathan Scott LT
Chris Kemoeatu LG
Doug Legursky C
Ramon Foster RG
Flozell Adams RT

Jonathan Scott was a traffic cone, Chris Kemoeatu was out of the league after 2011 at 29 years old, Doug Legursky was a backup, Ramon Foster was only at his 2nd season and Flozell Adams was our best player on the o-line, but was 35 years old, he had his limits and he retired after this super bowl.

You're crazy if you think Ben was the only reason why the sacks were high .... If Ben would always be at his checkdown every time he was under pressure, our passing game would have suffered a lot and we'll never have been in the super bowl in his 2 years.


That's right. I don't worship at the altar of #7 that many Steelers fans have done for the better part of a decade. I see his advantages as well as his flaws, his crippling Favre-Like turnovers, annual greasefire performances (2017 Jacksonville, 2018 Cleveland), and leading the league in interceptions last season, and missing the playoffs after a 7-2-1 start, and many finding that acceptable because reasons.


Ben led the league for interceptions because he was the leader in the NFL in pass attempts ... If we look at his INT%, he was in the middle of the NFL for that ... Several other QBs were close at Ben for interceptions, but they had not played the full season since they were benched before.

The Steelers have been 2-4 in the last 6 game, but against the Chargers, Ben and our offense had scored 30 points in this game but it was not enough, against the Raiders, Ben had only 4 incomplete passes (and 0 turnovers ) but Tomlin kept him on the bench way too long and against the saints, it was probably his best game of the season (outside of the game vs. CAR) but it was not enough

Only the game against Denver, it was a problem.

[polamalubeast]

1161354417930743809

[Dwinsgames]

The steelers only had 4 practices, but no way, Rudolph will not be our backup QB this year .... It would take a disaster for Rudolph to lose his job.

The practices are important ... Of course, when you're good in practice, not guaranteed you'll be good in the games, but if you're awful in practice, it's almost guaranteed you'll be bad in games. ... Maybe not in pre season but in the games in the regular season if you have to play because of a injury at Ben.

his job is the #3 until otherwise noted ....

Dobbs is the #2 until such time

[polamalubeast]

his job is the #3 until otherwise noted ....

Dobbs is the #2 until such time

We can not rely on the depth chart, especially in preseason ... Of course we'll know only before the season who will be our backup but the only reason Dobbs is higher than Rudolph right now is because Dobbs was our backup the last year

[Dwinsgames]

ya know in person the game must have looked dramatically different ....

Dobbs looked better ... period

then again I had a birdseye view of the field and could watch as it broke down ... Dobbs was very good he pulled it down when he needed to and made something happen with his legs

granted a QB makes his money with his arm but when you have an added dimension to your game that has to be accounted for and its not ..... can be devastating for a defense and Dobbs put on a clinic

pic taken from my seat

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EBpwVn3WsAAXH7o?format=jpg&name=large

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

ya know in person the game must have looked dramatically different ....

Dobbs looked better ... period

then again I had a birdseye view of the field and could watch as it broke down ... Dobbs was very good he pulled it down when he needed to and made something happen with his legs

granted a QB makes his money with his arm but when you have an added dimension to your game that has to be accounted for and its not ..... can be devastating for a defense and Dobbs put on a clinic

pic taken from my seat

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EBpwVn3WsAAXH7o?format=jpg&name=large Dobbs could be a starting QB in this league and don't see anything Lamar Jackson has that he don't. I still thought Rudolph had the better game though but Dobbs was decent.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Dobbs could be a starting QB in this league and don't see anything Lamar Jackson has that he don't. I still thought Rudolph had the better game though but Dobbs was decent.

Stronger Arm-------------------Jackson
Faster---------------------------Jackson
Track record, ie. Heismann----Jackson

Lamaar Jackson was voted the best college football player 3 years ago. Josh Dobbs was the 4th or 5th best QB at the Senior Bowl his senior season. Lamaar Jackson is substantially a better QB than Dobbs and I don't think Jackson is anything more than a poor mans Bob Griffin.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Stronger Arm-------------------Jackson
Faster---------------------------Jackson
Track record, ie. Heismann----Jackson

Lamaar Jackson was voted the best college football player 3 years ago. Josh Dobbs was the 4th or 5th best QB at the Senior Bowl his senior season. Lamaar Jackson is substantially a better QB than Dobbs and I don't think Jackson is anything more than a poor mans Bob Griffin. Heismann doesn't mean crap and a lot of QB's that won it had a short career in the NFL or even made the NFL. I get your point though and I would sooner have a pure passer. Doesn't mean Dobbs doesn't have talent and a team out there that likes his style and attributes.

[HollywoodSteel]

Or our sacks started to be down when our o-line started to be solid (2014)

Just to look our starting lineup for our O-line in super bowl XLIII

Max Starks LT
Chris Kemoeatu LG
Justin Hartwig C
Darnell Stapleton RG
Willie Colon RT

Justin Hartwig was out of the league the minute the steelers drafted Pouncey, Chris Kemoeatu and Willie Colon were penalty machine and Darnell Stapleton was not only a rookie but it was his only year in the NFL!...Max Starks was our better players on this o-line

What about 2010

Jonathan Scott LT
Chris Kemoeatu LG
Doug Legursky C
Ramon Foster RG
Flozell Adams RT

Jonathan Scott was a traffic cone, Chris Kemoeatu was out of the league after 2011 at 29 years old, Doug Legursky was a backup, Ramon Foster was only at his 2nd season and Flozell Adams was our best player on the o-line, but was 35 years old, he had his limits and he retired after this super bowl.

You're crazy if you think Ben was the only reason why the sacks were high .... If Ben would always be at his checkdown every time he was under pressure, our passing game would have suffered a lot and we'll never have been in the super bowl in his 2 years.




Ben led the league for interceptions because he was the leader in the NFL in pass attempts ... If we look at his INT%, he was in the middle of the NFL for that ... Several other QBs were close at Ben for interceptions, but they had not played the full season since they were benched before.

The Steelers have been 2-4 in the last 6 game, but against the Chargers, Ben and our offense had scored 30 points in this game but it was not enough, against the Raiders, Ben had only 4 incomplete passes (and 0 turnovers ) but Tomlin kept him on the bench way too long and against the saints, it was probably his best game of the season (outside of the game vs. CAR) but it was not enough

Only the game against Denver, it was a problem.

Please don’t ever mention Jonathan Scott again. I instinctively threw up in my mouth a little.

Weird how that still triggers me. I forgot how mad I was at Tomlin for going into the season thinking that Scott was a legit NFL left tackle. It was not cool.

[pczach]

You tell me. You're the one that is offended by it.



It's a little of both. You can look at all of the tape back then, and you can see the biggest knock on Roethlisberger was that he holds onto the ball forever. Especially under Bruce Arians. He's notably fixed it, and magically all of the sudden the sacks are down. Funny how that works.



That's right. I don't worship at the altar of #7 that many Steelers fans have done for the better part of a decade. I see his advantages as well as his flaws, his crippling Favre-Like turnovers, annual greasefire performances (2017 Jacksonville, 2018 Cleveland), and leading the league in interceptions last season, and missing the playoffs after a 7-2-1 start, and many finding that acceptable because reasons.



You are free to say whatever you please. As far as Wrong opinions and criticizing your idol not being allowed...

...Nah.

Anyway. I still really like Rudolph and he has the inside track. We'll see next week.



Wow.....Four separate responses and all you did was show what a fool you are by attempting to discredit one of the greatest quarterbacks ever by saying he sucks ass.

Man, you are fantastic at this debate thing.

Keep on spewing that revisionist history and lack of understanding backed up with your hate-driven angle on everything Big Ben. You're winning over exactly nobody, but the effort is interesting to watch.

Oh that's right.....I'm "worshipping at the altar of #7" again.

Have fun in the land of make believe.

[polamalubeast]

Please don’t ever mention Jonathan Scott again. I instinctively threw up in my mouth a little.

Weird how that still triggers me. I forgot how mad I was at Tomlin for going into the season thinking that Scott was a legit NFL left tackle. It was not cool.

Scott was so bad after 4 games in 2011, the steelers had re signed Max Stark and he was like our savior for our O-line!

Starks was a good player, but at this time of his career in 2011, he was not the same player he was before, but he was still our savior for this o-line, so much that Scott was a true traffic cone!

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

As for Ben's int ratio, you have to figure Ben is going to throw around 4 or 5 each time they face the Jags. Ramsey and the Jags just own Ben.

[polamalubeast]

As for Ben's int ratio, you have to figure Ben is going to throw around 4 or 5 each time they face the Jags. Ramsey and the Jags just own Ben.

It can happen to every player to have problems against some defense...At the moment for Ben this is against the Jaguars (still found a way to have 5 TD passes against them in the playoffs in 2017, but unfortunately Ben had no margin of error because of our defense and the awful play calling by Todd Haley in some situation)

Brady had problems in the Playoffs from 2009 to 2012 in his 3 home playoffs game against the Ravens ... QB rating of 49.1 in 2009..23-42 154 yards 2 TD, 3 INT, 1 fumble .... 2011 22-36 239 yards, 0 TD (1 TD rushing) 2 INT, QB rating of 57.5 ... the Pats have still won this game and 2012,29-54 320 yards 1 TD, 2 INT, QB rating of 62.3

Even Montana had major problems against the Giants in the playoffs in 1985, 1986 and 1990 (3 points in 1985 and 1986,13 points in 1990) ... so everyone can be bad against some defense.

[Dwinsgames]

I am not a buyer in the " anointing players on the depth chart" based on draft status or initial plans ...

I am a firm believer in competition dictating the pecking order of a roster ..

so Just because you draft a guy to be the heir apparent or you envision him possibly being so if the play of another is higher or equal but offers and secondary skill set the pecking order could ( and should ) reflect that ...

it is Rudolph job to take it away from Dobbs a tie normally goes to the incumbent or the guy who has the superior secondary talent in which case both in favor of Dobbs ...

I got no dog in the fight on who wins the job , my only thing is I want the BEST guy in that spot and as of right now I do not think that has been determined

[polamalubeast]

15 years ago...

1161604323228422144

[Born2Steel]

I am not a buyer in the " anointing players on the depth chart" based on draft status or initial plans ...

I am a firm believer in competition dictating the pecking order of a roster ..

so Just because you draft a guy to be the heir apparent or you envision him possibly being so if the play of another is higher or equal but offers and secondary skill set the pecking order could ( and should ) reflect that ...

it is Rudolph job to take it away from Dobbs a tie normally goes to the incumbent or the guy who has the superior secondary talent in which case both in favor of Dobbs ...

I got no dog in the fight on who wins the job , my only thing is I want the BEST guy in that spot and as of right now I do not think that has been determined

Agreed. AND God help the Steelers if Ben has to miss playing time this season. They may all 3 be better than Landry Jones but are just mere shadows of what Ben brings.

[SteelersNorth]

Agreed. AND God help the Steelers if Ben has to miss playing time this season. They may all 3 be better than Landry Jones but are just mere shadows of what Ben brings.

In any of the games Ben has missed I pretty much figure it's an automatic loss because he makes that much of a difference.

As for the current crop of backups none are worthy in my opinion as all are just 'guys' and none have that 'it' factor like Ben did when he arrived.

[polamalubeast]

In any of the games Ben has missed I pretty much figure it's an automatic loss because he makes that much of a difference.

As for the current crop of backups none are worthy in my opinion as all are just 'guys' and none have that 'it' factor like Ben did when he arrived.

It always depends our opponent when Ben misses one game or more

I think the steelers have been around .500 since 2004 without Ben ... Of course, it was all short-term absences (the longest absence was 4 games in 2010 and 2015) and if it would be long term, the loss of Ben would be very bad for the Steelers, but I believe in the short term, the steelers can survive if our schedule is not too hard

I think Rudolph could be our best backup in the Roethlisberger era ... It remains to be proven, but we will not be with no hope like it was already the case with other NFL team when it was Brett Hundley, Curtis Painter or other backup of this level where the team had no hope with them when they were the starters.

[86WARD]

.500. Which ever guy can go .500 or better when the starter is out, that’s the back up a winning team needs.

[SteelersNorth]

It always depends our opponent when Ben misses one game or more

I think the steelers have been around .500 since 2004 without Ben ... Of course, it was all short-term absences (the longest absence was 4 games in 2010 and 2015) and if it would be long term, the loss of Ben would be very bad for the Steelers, but I believe in the short term, the steelers can survive if our schedule is not too hard

I think Rudolph could be our best backup in the Roethlisberger era ... It remains to be proven, but we will not be with no hope like it was already the case with other NFL team when it was Brett Hundley, Curtis Painter or other backup of this level where the team had no hope with them when they were the starters.

Best back up in the Ben era has and still is Chuck.

I think most fans should temper expectations with Mason. Admittedly I'm aware he has some talent and skill as you don't get to the NFL or any level or sport without having that, but does he 'really' have that NEXT level needed like Ben?
Hopefully we never have to find out but until I'm proven otherwise he's the new Aaron Rodgers of back up QBs and that's being overrated without taking a legit snap!

[polamalubeast]

Best back up in the Ben era has and still is Chuck.

I think most fans should temper expectations with Mason. Admittedly I'm aware he has some talent and skill as you don't get to the NFL or any level or sport without having that, but does he 'really' have that NEXT level needed like Ben?
Hopefully we never have to find out but until I'm proven otherwise he's the new Aaron Rodgers of back up QBs and that's being overrated without taking a legit snap!

I do not know if Rudolph is the future QB of the steelers when Ben is going to retire ... I have no idea ... If I have to bet, I do not think our future QB is in the college football right now!

But in short term, if Ben misses 2-3 games, we can hope that the steelers survive with Rudolph, since he has some talent....The only thing I ask for a backup QB is to have at least a chance to win .... Can Rudolph do that? ... I do not know, but at least the hope would be there

[SteelersNorth]

I do not know if Rudolph is the future QB of the steelers when Ben is going to retire ... I have no idea ... If I have to bet, I do not think our future QB is in the college football right now!

But in short term, if Ben misses 2-3 games, we can hope that the steelers survive with Rudolph, since he has some talent....The only thing I ask for a backup QB is to have at least a chance to win .... Can Rudolph do that? ... I do not know, but at least the hope would be there

I agree; said heir to the steel throne is not on the team and maybe not even in college yet (I'm in Canada and don't watch college ball)

I had confidence that Chuck could give us a chance to win. Since he retired its been slim pick'ens with mostly garbage at back up QB.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Rudolph reminded me of Kirk Cousins when his draft year was up. Productive QB, has all the tools to be a good NFL QB, but nothing that jumps off the page as being a 1st round pick, other than his numbers. Cousins was a 4th round pick and worked hard until he got his shot. Rudolph has great qualities in terms of arm strength, leadership, pocket presence, QB knowledge, etc. He worked at the Manning Passing Academy 3 years in the summer, so he is a QB junkie with interest in sponging up knowledge on playing QB and passing it on.

I think regardless if he gets the backup spot this year or next, he is going to be a solid QB when Ben hangs it up in a year or 2 and the Steelers can be competitive with him at QB.

Here is a link to a great interview during his draft year, while he was in a walking boot due to injury at the Senior Bowl.
https://www.redskins.com/video/nfl-oklahoma-state-qb-mason-rudolph-on-preparing-for-post-college-caree-20313401

[Edman]

In any of the games Ben has missed I pretty much figure it's an automatic loss because he makes that much of a difference.

As for the current crop of backups none are worthy in my opinion as all are just 'guys' and none have that 'it' factor like Ben did when he arrived.

When Ben "first arrived", he was supposed to sit a year behind Tommy Maddox. Yes, THAT Tommy Maddox. It took Maddox getting hurt in Baltimore for Ben to step in. Ben wasn't even starting and was the number #2 Quarterback on the depth chart going into 2004 and likely never sees the field if Maddox doesn't get hurt. I guess Ben just didn't have that "It" factor.

A certain New England Quarterback we all despise was a sixth rounder who got into the game on an injury to Drew Bledsoe. I guess he didn't have the "it" factor either.

The "It" factor is overrated. We never know if a player has "it", until we get a chance to see "it".

[SteelersNorth]

When Ben "first arrived", he was supposed to sit a year behind Tommy Maddox. Yes, THAT Tommy Maddox. It took Maddox getting hurt in Baltimore for Ben to step in. Ben was sitting as the number #2 Quarterback on the depth chart going into 2004. I guess Ben didn't have that "It" factor. We never knew he had it until we actually saw him play.

A certain New England Quarterback we all despise got into the game on an injury to Drew Bledsoe. I guess he didn't have the "it" factor either.

The "It" factor is overrated. We never know if a player has "it", until we get a chance to see "it".

Actually Ben only made it to be #2 because Batch got injured in the preseason he was supposed to be the 3rd guy and waste away on the bench and be like Rivers and not start until 2006.
Stars aligned and we as fans lucked out with Tommy getting hurt (not that I want to see a guy get injured).
And sure you're right to a point with obvious odd exceptions even with guys drafted top spot like JaMarcus Russel or Bradford who don't pan out. BUT in saying that don't forget it was Rooney who made the Steelers draft Ben so to say he didn't have 'it' would be a shock i think.

Fans should thank that guy for drafting Ben instead of Shaun Andrews an o-lineman.

You're right 'it' is overrated but the king of that is Aaron Rodgers. :)

[polamalubeast]

Rudolph reminded me of Kirk Cousins when his draft year was up. Productive QB, has all the tools to be a good NFL QB, but nothing that jumps off the page as being a 1st round pick, other than his numbers. Cousins was a 4th round pick and worked hard until he got his shot. Rudolph has great qualities in terms of arm strength, leadership, pocket presence, QB knowledge, etc. He worked at the Manning Passing Academy 3 years in the summer, so he is a QB junkie with interest in sponging up knowledge on playing QB and passing it on.

I think regardless if he gets the backup spot this year or next, he is going to be a solid QB when Ben hangs it up in a year or 2 and the Steelers can be competitive with him at QB.

Here is a link to a great interview during his draft year, while he was in a walking boot due to injury at the Senior Bowl.
https://www.redskins.com/video/nfl-oklahoma-state-qb-mason-rudolph-on-preparing-for-post-college-caree-20313401

I'd be happy if Rudolph become as good as Kirk Cousins (of course, I want to have a better QB than that, but a QB of Cousins' caliber was better than every QB steelers had between Bradshaw and Ben) ... I think if we make a re draft for the 2012 draft, Cousins would easily be a first round pick.

[polamalubeast]

Actually Ben only made it to be #2 because Batch got injured in the preseason he was supposed to be the 3rd guy and waste away on the bench and be like Rivers and not start until 2006.
Stars aligned and we as fans lucked out with Tommy getting hurt (not that I want to see a guy get injured).
And sure you're right to a point with obvious odd exceptions even with guys drafted top spot like JaMarcus Russel or Bradford who don't pan out. BUT in saying that don't forget it was Rooney who made the Steelers draft Ben so to say he didn't have 'it' would be a shock i think.

Fans should thank that guy for drafting Ben instead of Shaun Andrews an o-lineman.

You're right 'it' is overrated but the king of that is Aaron Rodgers. :)

Fortunately Cowher did not panic like a media in Pittsburgh when Batch had his injury ... I mean, if you look at my post 153 of this page, someone said that the steelers needed an experience QB after the injury of Charlie Batch!

But Ben was the first rookie QB to really have a great rookie season ... He was the first QB ever to be named offensive rookie of the year and before Ben, the record for a rookie QB for the win was 6 .. .Ben got 13! ... It was a historic rookie season that no one could expect, especially at this time since no one had done that before!

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

I'd be happy if Rudolph become as good as Kirk Cousins (of course, I want to have a better QB than that, but a QB of Cousins' caliber was better than every QB steelers had between Bradshaw and Ben) ... I think if we make a re draft for the 2012 draft, Cousins would easily be a first round pick.

I still don't see Cousins as a franchise QB. I think he is on the 2nd tier and was likely a 2nd round pick. I agree that I would eventually want a QB better than Cousins caliber to lead the Steelers, but they aren't that easy to find.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

But Ben was the first rookie QB to really have a great rookie season ... He was the first QB ever to be named offensive rookie of the year and before Ben, the record for a rookie QB for the win was 6 .. .Ben got 13! ... It was a historic rookie season that no one could expect, especially at this time since no one had done that before!

I agree that Ben had a great rookie season, but can we be a little objective about how it all went down please? Ben didn't win 13 games...there were 52 other guys on that team who contributed largely. The playbook was pared down for the rookie QB (smart move), the 2004 Steelers lead the league in rushing attempts and rushing yardage. They also had a top ranked Defense and an offensive line that would consist of 3 pro bowlers in Faneca, Marvel Smith and Jeff Hartings.

Top ranked defense, solid O line, strong running game and a simplified playbook is a perfect way to usher a young QB into the NFL and thankfully all those things happened. Ben is definitely HOF bound and rolled into an ideal situation with a coaching staff that handled his introduction to the NFL perfectly, with lots of talent on the team.

[polamalubeast]

I agree that Ben had a great rookie season, but can we be a little objective about how it all went down please? Ben didn't win 13 games...there were 52 other guys on that team who contributed largely. The playbook was pared down for the rookie QB (smart move), the 2004 Steelers lead the league in rushing attempts and rushing yardage. They also had a top ranked Defense and an offensive line that would consist of 3 pro bowlers in Faneca, Marvel Smith and Jeff Hartings.

Top ranked defense, solid O line, strong running game and a simplified playbook is a perfect way to usher a young QB into the NFL and thankfully all those things happened. Ben is definitely HOF bound and rolled into an ideal situation with a coaching staff that handled his introduction to the NFL perfectly, with lots of talent on the team.

I know he was not alone, but 13-0 is exceptional for a rookie QB

In his rookie season, Ben was 5th for the QB rating, 2nd for the YPA and 4th for the completion percentage ... He was also first for the game winning drive.

Before Ben, only Dan Marino had probably a better rookie season for a QB.

[Fire Goodell]

The "It" factor is overrated. We never know if a player has "it", until we get a chance to see "it".

that's what she said :chuckle:

[SteelersNorth]

that's what she said :chuckle:


LOL!!!!!
Ah The Office and good ol' Michael Scott!

[SteelersNorth]

I agree that Ben had a great rookie season, but can we be a little objective about how it all went down please? Ben didn't win 13 games...there were 52 other guys on that team who contributed largely. The playbook was pared down for the rookie QB (smart move), the 2004 Steelers lead the league in rushing attempts and rushing yardage. They also had a top ranked Defense and an offensive line that would consist of 3 pro bowlers in Faneca, Marvel Smith and Jeff Hartings.

Top ranked defense, solid O line, strong running game and a simplified playbook is a perfect way to usher a young QB into the NFL and thankfully all those things happened. Ben is definitely HOF bound and rolled into an ideal situation with a coaching staff that handled his introduction to the NFL perfectly, with lots of talent on the team.

100% it was an ideal situation because the guy that came into that situation had 'it'. Do you really think that they go 15-1 with Maddox? be lucky if they win 6 games like the previous season if Maddox played the full year.

I mean in 2004 it was basically the same team save for Troy having a year under his belt in Ben's rookie year. But everything else didn't change that much except the QB in 2004.
Regardless of simplicity or not you still have to execute and he did exactly that and continues to do so to this day even when he's had a junk defense, its Ben or nothing.

Even the GOD of all QBs his first full season went 6-10. And somehow goes 6-9-1 and gets a free pass last year...figure that one out!

[polamalubeast]

100% it was an ideal situation because the guy that came into that situation had 'it'. Do you really think that they go 15-1 with Maddox? be lucky if they win 6 games like the previous season if Maddox played the full year.

I mean in 2004 it was basically the same team save for Troy having a year under his belt in Ben's rookie year. But everything else didn't change that much except the QB in 2004.
Regardless of simplicity or not you still have to execute and he did exactly that and continues to do so to this day even when he's had a junk defense, its Ben or nothing.

Even the GOD of all QBs his first full season went 6-10. And somehow goes 6-9-1 and gets a free pass last year...figure that one out!

The steelers was 26th in the Espn power rankings before the 2004 season!

http://www.espn.com/nfl/team/rankings/_/name/pit/year/2004

[Butch]

100% it was an ideal situation because the guy that came into that situation had 'it'. Do you really think that they go 15-1 with Maddox? be lucky if they win 6 games like the previous season if Maddox played the full year.

I mean in 2004 it was basically the same team save for Troy having a year under his belt in Ben's rookie year. But everything else didn't change that much except the QB in 2004.
Regardless of simplicity or not you still have to execute and he did exactly that and continues to do so to this day even when he's had a junk defense, its Ben or nothing.

Even the GOD of all QBs his first full season went 6-10. And somehow goes 6-9-1 and gets a free pass last year...figure that one out!

EXACTLY!!!

Ben may not have had to do much (as El Gonzo put it), but that is minimalizing what he did. History has shown that the most key factor in a teams success is how good the QB is. That's not to say that it is the lone factor (ask Dan Marino), but it is the key position of all positions. In other words you may win a Superbowl with so-so QB but your success will be short lived. Ben was the missing piece between having a so-so 2004 season and a Great 2004 season. He did things and made decisions that veterans on the team were not making or maybe even not capable of doing.

[polamalubeast]

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[El-Gonzo Jackson]

100% it was an ideal situation because the guy that came into that situation had 'it'. Do you really think that they go 15-1 with Maddox? be lucky if they win 6 games like the previous season if Maddox played the full year.

I mean in 2004 it was basically the same team save for Troy having a year under his belt in Ben's rookie year. But everything else didn't change that much except the QB in 2004.
Regardless of simplicity or not you still have to execute and he did exactly that and continues to do so to this day even when he's had a junk defense, its Ben or nothing.

Even the GOD of all QBs his first full season went 6-10. And somehow goes 6-9-1 and gets a free pass last year...figure that one out!

Ben was competitive as all hell as a rookie, had a strong arm and thought he was 10 ft tall and bulletproof, which many rookies may think. Paring down the playbook and relying on the run game and defense was the best thing to do. The actual problem with Maddox was they gave him the whole playbook and he would make mistakes that he wouldn't if they let him manage the game. But, the reality is that Ben had better arm talent and athletic ability to extend plays and make easier throws.

I am not a Ben hater, I was hoping for him in the pre draft process and happy they drafted him. I just objectively know that he played like a rookie at times in his first and second seasons, while the defense and run game complimented his development immensely. Sure he wins a SB with the lowest ever QB rating at the time and slides towards becoming a total Delta Bravo, but he is truly a HOF QB and likely Phyllis Rivers was marginally better from that draft year, but never had the defense to compliment him. I think Eli had some great defenses that helped him get his rings, just as Ben did, but Ben likely has more late game comebacks than Manning, which indicates having to throw the ball to get back in games, IMO.

[HollywoodSteel]

Ben was competitive as all hell as a rookie, had a strong arm and thought he was 10 ft tall and bulletproof, which many rookies may think. Paring down the playbook and relying on the run game and defense was the best thing to do. The actual problem with Maddox was they gave him the whole playbook and he would make mistakes that he wouldn't if they let him manage the game. But, the reality is that Ben had better arm talent and athletic ability to extend plays and make easier throws.

I am not a Ben hater, I was hoping for him in the pre draft process and happy they drafted him. I just objectively know that he played like a rookie at times in his first and second seasons, while the defense and run game complimented his development immensely. Sure he wins a SB with the lowest ever QB rating at the time and slides towards becoming a total Delta Bravo, but he is truly a HOF QB and likely Phyllis Rivers was marginally better from that draft year, but never had the defense to compliment him. I think Eli had some great defenses that helped him get his rings, just as Ben did, but Ben likely has more late game comebacks than Manning, which indicates having to throw the ball to get back in games, IMO.

Ben definitely has more 4th quarter comebacks than Eli. Ben is second only to Brady among active QBs and I believe he’s tied for 5th or 6th with Elway for all time comebacks. He’ll obviously pass Elway soon enough.

[Butch]

Ben was competitive as all hell as a rookie, had a strong arm and thought he was 10 ft tall and bulletproof, which many rookies may think. Paring down the playbook and relying on the run game and defense was the best thing to do. The actual problem with Maddox was they gave him the whole playbook and he would make mistakes that he wouldn't if they let him manage the game. But, the reality is that Ben had better arm talent and athletic ability to extend plays and make easier throws.

I am not a Ben hater, I was hoping for him in the pre draft process and happy they drafted him. I just objectively know that he played like a rookie at times in his first and second seasons, while the defense and run game complimented his development immensely. Sure he wins a SB with the lowest ever QB rating at the time and slides towards becoming a total Delta Bravo, but he is truly a HOF QB and likely Phyllis Rivers was marginally better from that draft year, but never had the defense to compliment him. I think Eli had some great defenses that helped him get his rings, just as Ben did, but Ben likely has more late game comebacks than Manning, which indicates having to throw the ball to get back in games, IMO.

The problem with your post is that you minimalize everything Ben does. You overlook how poor of an O-line he had when he came in and the fact that it didn't impede his success. He would compensate for it by extending plays and improvising...as a ROOKIE and won games because of his actions. Rivers may be a very good QB but no way he does well behind the line we had back then, saying he is marginally better is a joke. They have different QB styles but I'll take Ben in our system back then over Rivers. With Maddox he was a backup QB at best and saying he should have been made a game manager is laughable. You may, if you are lucky, win once with a game manager, but even that is not assured. You would not have liked that either, no fan wants that. Yes Ben had a bad SB, but you selectively neglect how we don't even get there without Ben's passing. You also like to lump both his wins as relying on the D but forget how clutch he played in the game winning drive in 43 and had a pretty good game before that drive. You may not be a Ben hater but you sure do minimalize everything he has accomplished and try to pass it off as being objective.

[86WARD]

It’s funny that during Cowhers Era, how average they were at QB and then how well off they were at the QB position. It started out flat, bumped up, dropped way down and then shot way up...lol.

Started with Neil O’Donnell and Bubby Brister to Neil O’Donnell and Mike Tomczak then add Kordell into that mix. Then O’Donnel was out and enter Jim Miller. 2000 hit close to an all-time low with Kordell and Kent Graham. Then there was Tommy Maddox showing up.. then Big Ben, Maddox and Chuck Batch.

You can say what you want about Cowher and his QBs but he always had some sort of season veteran on that staff as a back up...which is a good thing for a starter.

2008 may have been the best QB group the Steelers have ever had with the original Killer Bs - Ben, Byron and Batch. Batch’s arm was basically a piece of spaghetti, but his knowledge was priceless.

[polamalubeast]

Ben was competitive as all hell as a rookie, had a strong arm and thought he was 10 ft tall and bulletproof, which many rookies may think. Paring down the playbook and relying on the run game and defense was the best thing to do. The actual problem with Maddox was they gave him the whole playbook and he would make mistakes that he wouldn't if they let him manage the game. But, the reality is that Ben had better arm talent and athletic ability to extend plays and make easier throws.

I am not a Ben hater, I was hoping for him in the pre draft process and happy they drafted him. I just objectively know that he played like a rookie at times in his first and second seasons, while the defense and run game complimented his development immensely. Sure he wins a SB with the lowest ever QB rating at the time and slides towards becoming a total Delta Bravo, but he is truly a HOF QB and likely Phyllis Rivers was marginally better from that draft year, but never had the defense to compliment him. I think Eli had some great defenses that helped him get his rings, just as Ben did, but Ben likely has more late game comebacks than Manning, which indicates having to throw the ball to get back in games, IMO.

Ben had a QB rating of 124 in the 3 Road playoffs game before ....Ben in 2005 was also 3rd in QB rating in the NFL in 2005 and first (and not even close) for the YPA.

The steelers were not a one man team, nobody said that but Ben was a huge reason why steelers had big seasons in 2004 and 2005

[SteelersNorth]

Ben was competitive as all hell as a rookie, had a strong arm and thought he was 10 ft tall and bulletproof, which many rookies may think. Paring down the playbook and relying on the run game and defense was the best thing to do. The actual problem with Maddox was they gave him the whole playbook and he would make mistakes that he wouldn't if they let him manage the game. But, the reality is that Ben had better arm talent and athletic ability to extend plays and make easier throws.

I am not a Ben hater, I was hoping for him in the pre draft process and happy they drafted him. I just objectively know that he played like a rookie at times in his first and second seasons, while the defense and run game complimented his development immensely. Sure he wins a SB with the lowest ever QB rating at the time and slides towards becoming a total Delta Bravo, but he is truly a HOF QB and likely Phyllis Rivers was marginally better from that draft year, but never had the defense to compliment him. I think Eli had some great defenses that helped him get his rings, just as Ben did, but Ben likely has more late game comebacks than Manning, which indicates having to throw the ball to get back in games, IMO.

To say Rivers is marginally better is a dick headed comment and sorry for being blunt. I don't care how you worded it the proof has been proven time and time and time and time and time...I think you get the idea lol
Agreed you need some help on D all QBs do but in saying that you also as the QB need to make those around you better REGARDLESS of who you have and the 3 BEST in the game to do it in this ERA are Brady, Brees and Ben.
Just an FYI Rivers went 8 STRAIGHT playoffless seasons with his best record being 9-7 with the low being 4-12.
in 2008 don't forget the win the piss poor AFC West with a stellar 8-8 record and fluke getting to the Divisional RD against the Steelers.
The worst record the Steelers have had in the Ben era is 8-8...but you're right Rivers is 'better' yyyyyeeeeaaaaaahhhhhhhh!
The Steelers have always been in contention until the final weeks unlike the Chargers

As for comebacks:
Ben sits 6th tied with Elway with 31. 2 away from 5th and 3 away from a tie into 3rd (both depending on what others do)
Eli 11th with 27
Rivers is 13th with 26 and half have come during those fantastic 8 years
and because he's vastly overrated Rogers is 75th with 14

Game Winning Drives (pro football reference separates them, why I'm not sure)
Ben 6th with 42...1 away from a tie with Fav-re, 2 away from a tie with Brady, but again thats depending on what they do)
Eli 9th with 37
Rivers 17th with 30
Rodgers 53rd with 20

Pretty clear to me the guy that elevates his team in crunch time is the guy that's been to 3 Super Bowls and holds a few distinct passing records.
I could be wrong but I'm taking Ben before any of the other 3

[polamalubeast]

To say Rivers is marginally better is a dick headed comment and sorry for being blunt. I don't care how you worded it the proof has been proven time and time and time and time and time...I think you get the idea lol
Agreed you need some help on D all QBs do but in saying that you also as the QB need to make those around you better REGARDLESS of who you have and the 3 BEST in the game to do it in this ERA are Brady, Brees and Ben.
Just an FYI Rivers went 8 STRAIGHT playoffless seasons with his best record being 9-7 with the low being 4-12.
in 2008 don't forget the win the piss poor AFC West with a stellar 8-8 record and fluke getting to the Divisional RD against the Steelers.
The worst record the Steelers have had in the Ben era is 8-8...but you're right Rivers is 'better' yyyyyeeeeaaaaaahhhhhhhh!
The Steelers have always been in contention until the final weeks unlike the Chargers

As for comebacks:
Ben sits 6th tied with Elway with 31. 2 away from 5th and 3 away from a tie into 3rd (both depending on what others do)
Eli 11th with 27
Rivers is 13th with 26 and half have come during those fantastic 8 years
and because he's vastly overrated Rogers is 75th with 14

Game Winning Drives (pro football reference separates them, why I'm not sure)
Ben 6th with 42...1 away from a tie with Fav-re, 2 away from a tie with Brady, but again thats depending on what they do)
Eli 9th with 37
Rivers 17th with 30
Rodgers 53rd with 20

Pretty clear to me the guy that elevates his team in crunch time is the guy that's been to 3 Super Bowls and holds a few distinct passing records.
I could be wrong but I'm taking Ben before any of the other 3

To be fair with Rivers, the Chargers made the playoffs in 2013 with a 9-7 record (with a lot of help, as the Chargers needed the Dolphins and Ravens to lose their last 2 games and the kicker of the chiefs miss an easy FG at the end ) but it was his only time in the decade before last year.

[teegre]

Philip Rivers played with one the greatest RBs in the history of the NFL: LaDainian. Talk about being able to “rely on a running game”. Likewise, Rivers had the ability to check down to the second-best TE of the past two decades: Gates. And, Sproles might just be the best third-down RB/return-specialist that NFL has ever seen.

Regardless of any of that, having lived in SD, where most of my friends were (“were”... because, they are not now) Chargers fans, the biggest gripe about Rivers was that he “found a way to lose the game”. The game that comes to mind was the KC game where all that Rivers has to do to win the game was take a snap (and kneel)... which he fumbled.

BREES:
What is interesting is that both the Steelers and the Chargers were connected to Drew Brees. Everyone and their mother had mocked Drew Brees to the Steelers (but, they passed on him). Not to be outdone, the Chargers drafted Brees... but then drafted Rivers to replace him. :huh: Do not get it wrong: Brees did not get injured until the end of River’s rookie season (as in: the Chargers were never going to re-sign Brees).

Now... imagine that 2004-2008 Chargers team with Brees, LT, Gates, Sproles... and Larry Fitzgerald. :scared:

[polamalubeast]

Philip Rivers played with the greatest RB of the past twenty years: LaDainian. Talk about being able to “rely on a running game”. Likewise, Rivers had the ability to check down to the second-best TE of the past two decade: Gates. And, Sproles might just be the best third-down RB/return-specialist that NFL has ever seen.

Regardless of any of that, having lived in SD, where most of my friends were (“we’re”... because, they are not now) Chargers fans, the biggest gripe about Rivers was that he “found a way to lose the game”. The game that comes to mind was the KC game where all that Rivers has to do to win the game was take a snap (and kneel)... which he fumbled.

BREES:
What is interesting is that both the Steelers and the Chargers were connected to Drew Brees. Everyone and their mother had mocked Drew Brees to the Steelers (but, they passed on him). Not to be outdone, the Chargers drafted Brees... but then drafted Rivers to replace him. :huh: Do not get it wrong: Brees did not get injured until the end of River’s rookie season (as in: the Chargers were never going to re-sign Brees).

Now... imagine that 2004-2008 Chargers team with Brees, LT, Gates, Sproles... and Larry Fitzgerald. :scared:

The problem with the chargers were A.J Smith ... His ego was too big...If Smith would have listened to Marty Schottenheimer more often, the chargers would have had more success.

By the way, for the Chargers defense, they were often very good in the playoffs .... 3 interception against Brady in 2006 and 187 total yards (123 rushing yards) for Tomlinson in this game..No enough for the chargers to beat the Pats ... I know that Ben would not have had the credit if he would have won this game, even if he had a good game, but at least he would have won this game if its supporting cast would have played well like that

The Chargers defense also had 3 interceptions against Brady the year after in the playoffs, but in Rivers' defense, the Chargers had a lot of injury in offense, including Rivers ..

In 2008, if we looked at Rivers' stats against the Steelers in the playoffs, it was great, but half of his yards and 2 of his 3 TD passes were in garbage time when the Chargers were behind by 18 points ... I'm not saying he was bad, but his stats were inflated in garbage time ... Same thing in his playoffs game last January in New England .... He'd been shutdown for 3 quarters before inflating his stats when the Chargers were behind by 30 points in the 4th quarter

[SteelersNorth]

The problem with the chargers were A.J Smith ... His ego was too big...If Smith would have listened to Marty Schottenheimer more often, the chargers would have had more success.

By the way, for the Chargers defense, they were often very good in the playoffs .... 3 interception against Brady in 2006 and 187 total yards (123 rushing yards) for Tomlinson in this game..No enough for the chargers to beat the Pats ... I know that Ben would not have had the credit if he would have won this game, even if he had a good game, but at least he would have won this game if its supporting cast would have played well like that

The Chargers defense also had 3 interceptions against Brady the year after in the playoffs, but in Rivers' defense, the Chargers had a lot of injury in offense, including Rivers ..

In 2008, if we looked at Rivers' stats against the Steelers in the playoffs, it was great, but half of his yards and 2 of his 3 TD passes were in garbage time when the Chargers were behind by 18 points ... I'm not saying he was bad, but his stats were inflated in garbage time ... Same thing in his playoffs game last January in New England .... He'd been shutdown for 3 quarters before inflating his stats when the Chargers were behind by 30 points in the 4th quarter

that right there during those crap seasons give him more credit stat wise than he probably should get

In watching the Steelers exclusively during the Ben era I'm still dumbfounded to this very day how Ben never gets the credit he deserves for a lot of the teams success AND how he doesn't get the credit for carrying them to XL in those 3 playoff games.
I'm still flabberghasted at how he didn't win MVP of XLIII because you could pick any QB pretty much past or current they win MVP for that drive alone which was legendary 92 yards for the dub!

And to think Ben has had 4 perfect passer rating game all flukes, 3 500 yard passing games all flukes and have 4 40 completion + games 3 of which hes the only guy to have wins in all flukes.

Rivers has a 'fluke' year last year and all of a sudden he's a legend? W T F!!!
Aaron Rogers has the encyclopedia of excuses as to why his team continually fails.
Yet every time the Steelers fail its ALWAYS Ben?
Now I'm not saying Ben shouldn't ever take blame because he should. All Star QBs should get blamed because of being 'the guys' that drive the team 99.8% of the time.
I'm just amazed at how the NFL media et al spins things and people end up believing it for the most part. Yet when you dig deeper Rivers is pedestrian at best and Rodgers is so grossly overrated that it makes me sick to my stomach how protected that guy is.
Hell if the NFL media started tomorrow and said Ben is the worst QB of all time people would eat it up guaranteed!

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

The problem with your post is that you minimalize everything Ben does. You overlook how poor of an O-line he had when he came in and the fact that it didn't impede his success. …….. You may not be a Ben hater but you sure do minimalize everything he has accomplished and try to pass it off as being objective.

The 2004 O line consisted of Marvel Smith, Alan Faneca, Jeff Hartings, Keydrick Vincent, Oliver Ross.
The 2005 O line consisted of Smith, Faneca, Hartings, Kendall Simmons and Max Starks.

Neither of those offensive lines were poor. Smith Faneca and Hartings all made Pro bowls, the other guys were decent as well. Ben arguably had worse lines later on when Jon Scott, Kemo, Darnell Stapleton were starting. Perhaps you minimize the talent around Ben in his early years, so that he seems to be an even greater of a player in your mind and you feel even better about that #7 avatar?

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

To say Rivers is marginally better is a dick headed comment and sorry for being blunt. I don't care how you worded it the proof has been proven time and time and time and time and time...I think you get the idea lol
Agreed you need some help on D all QBs do but in saying that you also as the QB need to make those around you better REGARDLESS of who you have and the 3 BEST in the game to do it in this ERA are Brady, Brees and Ben.
Just an FYI Rivers went 8 STRAIGHT playoffless seasons with his best record being 9-7 with the low being 4-12.
in 2008 don't forget the win the piss poor AFC West with a stellar 8-8 record and fluke getting to the Divisional RD against the Steelers.
The worst record the Steelers have had in the Ben era is 8-8...but you're right Rivers is 'better' yyyyyeeeeaaaaaahhhhhhhh!
The Steelers have always been in contention until the final weeks unlike the Chargers

As for comebacks:
Ben sits 6th tied with Elway with 31. 2 away from 5th and 3 away from a tie into 3rd (both depending on what others do)
Eli 11th with 27
Rivers is 13th with 26 and half have come during those fantastic 8 years
and because he's vastly overrated Rogers is 75th with 14

Game Winning Drives (pro football reference separates them, why I'm not sure)
Ben 6th with 42...1 away from a tie with Fav-re, 2 away from a tie with Brady, but again thats depending on what they do)
Eli 9th with 37
Rivers 17th with 30
Rodgers 53rd with 20

Pretty clear to me the guy that elevates his team in crunch time is the guy that's been to 3 Super Bowls and holds a few distinct passing records.
I could be wrong but I'm taking Ben before any of the other 3

Way to keep a discussion classy. :jerkit:

To compare individual records of players and ignore that they had 52 teammates around them is rather short sighted. All your stats of Ben, Eli, Rivers, Rodgers completely ignores the fact that not all of them had a #1 defense to support them, not all of them had multiple pro bowl players on the o line and not all of them had HOF running backs( I think LT was better than the Bus). My opinion is that if Rivers had a few pro bowlers up front and the #1 ranked defense across the ball from him in practice, he likely has a SB ring as well.

[SteelersNorth]

The 2004 O line consisted of Marvel Smith, Alan Faneca, Jeff Hartings, Keydrick Vincent, Oliver Ross.
The 2005 O line consisted of Smith, Faneca, Hartings, Kendall Simmons and Max Starks.

Neither of those offensive lines were poor. Smith Faneca and Hartings all made Pro bowls, the other guys were decent as well. Ben arguably had worse lines later on when Jon Scott, Kemo, Darnell Stapleton were starting. Perhaps you minimize the talent around Ben in his early years, so that he seems to be an even greater of a player in your mind and you feel even better about that #7 avatar?

Lets omit 2004 for the sake of the argument.
in 2005 in the 4 games Ben missed they went 2-2
Tommy Maddox 0-2 384 yards passing, 2td passes 4 picks
Chuck 2-0 215 yards, zero TDs, 1 pick

It's like you're saying put anyone back there at QB and they'll be just as good but that's no where close to the case even with the pro bowl players they had on the oline.

Just accept the fact that Ben instantly made the team better which it seems is a bitter pill to swallow for you.

[polamalubeast]

Way to keep a discussion classy. :jerkit:

To compare individual records of players and ignore that they had 52 teammates around them is rather short sighted. All your stats of Ben, Eli, Rivers, Rodgers completely ignores the fact that not all of them had a #1 defense to support them, not all of them had multiple pro bowl players on the o line and not all of them had HOF running backs( I think LT was better than the Bus). My opinion is that if Rivers had a few pro bowlers up front and the #1 ranked defense across the ball from him in practice, he likely has a SB ring as well.

Yes, but Rodgers had all the credit in 2010 when he won the Super Bowl, even though he had elite defense and his defense had a defensive TD in 3 of his playoffs game...For Rivers, in 2006, unable to win against the Pats, though LT had 187 total yards and 2 TD and Brady had 3 interceptions in this game, 1 more than the Steelers defense had against Brady since that time ..

Eli Manning had a lot of credit to beat the Pats in the SB twice, although it was more of a big team effort...

1157923795212144641

We have to be consistent ... The problem is that Ben does not always have the credit he deserve to have and that the others would have had ... I mean, very likely he will beat Elway and Marino for the regular season win this year and a QB must be great and consistent to have so many wins in a very long period of time

[SteelersNorth]

Way to keep a discussion classy. :jerkit:

To compare individual records of players and ignore that they had 52 teammates around them is rather short sighted. All your stats of Ben, Eli, Rivers, Rodgers completely ignores the fact that not all of them had a #1 defense to support them, not all of them had multiple pro bowl players on the o line and not all of them had HOF running backs( I think LT was better than the Bus). My opinion is that if Rivers had a few pro bowlers up front and the #1 ranked defense across the ball from him in practice, he likely has a SB ring as well.

LT was better than the Bus I won't argue that.
Faulk was the first 'dual' threat back, then LT.

You do realize I'm fully aware that there are 52 other guys.
But in saying that how does it make sense no matter how you slice it dice it or whatever term you want to use does Rivers get all this amazing credit for 1 season (last year) and Rodgers gets all the credit for EVERYTHING the Packers do and takes no blame for getting McCarthy canned nor his teams trash record last year? and don't use the lame excuse he was 'injured' he played every game so throw that out the window.

Also Rodgers has had a stellar D and he cost them the game in 2014 against Seattle where HIS D gifted him 5 turnovers and they somehow blame an onside kick that shouldn't have happened because they were also up 16-0 at the half.

And sure having a #1 D is great huge massive help. The only 3 teams in the last 20 years to fluke a title with average QBs with a #1 D were the Ravens with Dilfer & Flacco and the Bucs with Brad Johnson.
The QB makes that much of a difference 85% of the time.

Lastly Rivers would not have a SB Ring, Rivers sucks. He doesn't make those around him better especially at WR.
Look at who Ben made into stars:
Holmes and then when he left what happened to his career...exactly
Wallace...wanted to get paid, he did and now what? hes bounced around to 4 or 5 teams since the Steelers
Brown...we can all laugh soon enough but again he wanted to be paid
now JuJu
The reason all those guys became amazing is because of Ben not the other way around as 2 failed miserably when they left soon to be a 3rd.

oh, forgot one thing but you do remember Ben won a Super Bowl with probably the worst Oline ever assembled in 2008?
he had Starks, Kemoeatu, Hartwig, Stapleton, Colon...all of which were 3rd rd picks or later or in some cases un-drafted.

[teegre]

To compare individual records of players and ignore that they had 52 teammates around them is rather short sighted. All your stats of Ben, Eli, Rivers, Rodgers completely ignores the fact that not all of them had a #1 defense to support them, not all of them had multiple pro bowl players on the o line and not all of them had HOF running backs( I think LT was better than the Bus). My opinion is that if Rivers had a few pro bowlers up front and the #1 ranked defense across the ball from him in practice, he likely has a SB ring as well.

The Chargers’ interior O-line was every bit as good as ours: Goff, Hardwick, & Dielman were outstanding. And, when he was healthy, McNeill was amazing. On defense, they had some pretty good players, as well: Jamal Williams, Donnie Edwards, Quentin Jammer, Eric Weddle, Shaun Phillips, Lights Out...

But, like I said earlier, Rivers’ biggest hurdle was: not making a blunder that lost the game. Some players are winners; others find inventive ways to lose.

[SteelersNorth]

The Chargers’ interior O-line was every bit as good as ours: Goff, Hardwick, & Dielman were outstanding. And, when he was healthy, McNeill was amazing. On defense, they had some pretty good players, as well: Jamal Williams, Donnie Edwards, Quentin Jammer, Eric Weddle, Shaun Phillips, Lights Out...

But, like I said earlier, Rivers’ biggest hurdle was: not making a blunder that lost the game. Some players are winners; others find inventive ways to lose.

Or they're just losers :grin:

[Born2Steel]

If Bellichick had Big Ben the Pats would have won the last 10 SBs in a row. :stirthepot:

[SteelersNorth]

If Bellichick had Big Ben the Pats would have won the last 10 SBs in a row. :stirthepot:

:sarcasm2:

[polamalubeast]

1162017340869042176

[Dwinsgames]

Philip Rivers played with one the greatest RBs in the history of the NFL: LaDainian. Talk about being able to “rely on a running game”. Likewise, Rivers had the ability to check down to the second-best TE of the past two decades: Gates. And, Sproles might just be the best third-down RB/return-specialist that NFL has ever seen.

Regardless of any of that, having lived in SD, where most of my friends were (“were”... because, they are not now) Chargers fans, the biggest gripe about Rivers was that he “found a way to lose the game”. The game that comes to mind was the KC game where all that Rivers has to do to win the game was take a snap (and kneel)... which he fumbled.

BREES:
What is interesting is that both the Steelers and the Chargers were connected to Drew Brees. Everyone and their mother had mocked Drew Brees to the Steelers (but, they passed on him). Not to be outdone, the Chargers drafted Brees... but then drafted Rivers to replace him. :huh: Do not get it wrong: Brees did not get injured until the end of River’s rookie season (as in: the Chargers were never going to re-sign Brees).

Now... imagine that 2004-2008 Chargers team with Brees, LT, Gates, Sproles... and Larry Fitzgerald. :scared:

lets not forget when Tomlinson went out for a breather not only Sproles was a potential breather back but so was Michael Turner ( before he went on to fame and $$ in Atlanta )

[Butch]

The 2004 O line consisted of Marvel Smith, Alan Faneca, Jeff Hartings, Keydrick Vincent, Oliver Ross.
The 2005 O line consisted of Smith, Faneca, Hartings, Kendall Simmons and Max Starks.

Neither of those offensive lines were poor. Smith Faneca and Hartings all made Pro bowls, the other guys were decent as well. Ben arguably had worse lines later on when Jon Scott, Kemo, Darnell Stapleton were starting. Perhaps you minimize the talent around Ben in his early years, so that he seems to be an even greater of a player in your mind and you feel even better about that #7 avatar?

WOW my avatar upsets you so much you try to shame me on it ROFLMAO. News flash I am a Ben supporter and have been since he was a rookie. I am not afraid to admit who I am...are you?

Yes those lines were decent, but he still needed to make plays. Ben made those plays and lead us from behind in his rookie year. I sincerely doubt Tommy Gun could do the same on a regular basis. Ben's abilities elevated the offense something Maddox couldn't do, especially if you make him a "Game Manager" as you so desired. You seem ok with having a game manager lead the team, but are critical of the guy who wins games.

Yes it takes a team to win but there is no more important position than QB. I have seen my share of Steeler teams that had Great Defenses but couldn't win because they had "game managers" for QBs. I can only think of 1 Great QB who did not win a SB, and he is quite possibly the Best QB of all time...to damn bad we didn't draft him.

[polamalubeast]

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[86WARD]

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Ben’s a Diva.

[86WARD]

WOW my avatar upsets you so much you try to shame me on it ROFLMAO. News flash I am a Ben supporter and have been since he was a rookie. I am not afraid to admit who I am...are you?

Yes those lines were decent, but he still needed to make plays. Ben made those plays and lead us from behind in his rookie year. I sincerely doubt Tommy Gun could do the same on a regular basis. Ben's abilities elevated the offense something Maddox couldn't do, especially if you make him a "Game Manager" as you so desired. You seem ok with having a game manager lead the team, but are critical of the guy who wins games.

Yes it takes a team to win but there is no more important position than QB. I have seen my share of Steeler teams that had Great Defenses but couldn't win because they had "game managers" for QBs. I can only think of 1 Great QB who did not win a SB, and he is quite possibly the Best QB of all time...to damn bad we didn't draft him.

Why would you have a Ben avatar on a Steelers message board? That’s just nonsense!! Lol

[SteelersNorth]

Why would you have a Ben avatar on a Steelers message board? That’s just nonsense!! Lol

Even better question - why would YOU have a South Park Ben :tongue1:

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Lets omit 2004 for the sake of the argument.
in 2005 in the 4 games Ben missed they went 2-2
Tommy Maddox 0-2 384 yards passing, 2td passes 4 picks
Chuck 2-0 215 yards, zero TDs, 1 pick

It's like you're saying put anyone back there at QB and they'll be just as good but that's no where close to the case even with the pro bowl players they had on the oline.

Just accept the fact that Ben instantly made the team better which it seems is a bitter pill to swallow for you.

Why would it be a bitter pill to swallow? That 2004 season was just what long time Steeler fans like myself were waiting for and it was fantastic. I ordered my kid a #7 jersey before Ben ever played an NFL game, because I knew he was gonna be good.

I am just not a fanboy that tries to give Ben all the credit for the W's, but then point to the "team" being the cause of losses, like so many here do.

I honestly think that if Philip Rivers was drafted by the Steelers and Ben ended up in San Diego, that the Steelers would still have at least 2 SB wins in that era, while the Chargers organization would have zero. Its not just the individual, its the surrounding players, team, organization, ownership that collectively wins and loses.

[86WARD]

Even better question - why would YOU have a South Park Ben :tongue1:

Touché

[polamalubeast]

that right there during those crap seasons give him more credit stat wise than he probably should get

In watching the Steelers exclusively during the Ben era I'm still dumbfounded to this very day how Ben never gets the credit he deserves for a lot of the teams success AND how he doesn't get the credit for carrying them to XL in those 3 playoff games.
I'm still flabberghasted at how he didn't win MVP of XLIII because you could pick any QB pretty much past or current they win MVP for that drive alone which was legendary 92 yards for the dub!

And to think Ben has had 4 perfect passer rating game all flukes, 3 500 yard passing games all flukes and have 4 40 completion + games 3 of which hes the only guy to have wins in all flukes.

Rivers has a 'fluke' year last year and all of a sudden he's a legend? W T F!!!
Aaron Rogers has the encyclopedia of excuses as to why his team continually fails.
Yet every time the Steelers fail its ALWAYS Ben?
Now I'm not saying Ben shouldn't ever take blame because he should. All Star QBs should get blamed because of being 'the guys' that drive the team 99.8% of the time.
I'm just amazed at how the NFL media et al spins things and people end up believing it for the most part. Yet when you dig deeper Rivers is pedestrian at best and Rodgers is so grossly overrated that it makes me sick to my stomach how protected that guy is.
Hell if the NFL media started tomorrow and said Ben is the worst QB of all time people would eat it up guaranteed!

Interesting article about Rodgers for you

https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/are-we-sure-aaron-rodgers-is-still-an-elite-quarterback/

[pczach]

The Chargers’ interior O-line was every bit as good as ours: Goff, Hardwick, & Dielman were outstanding. And, when he was healthy, McNeill was amazing. On defense, they had some pretty good players, as well: Jamal Williams, Donnie Edwards, Quentin Jammer, Eric Weddle, Shaun Phillips, Lights Out...

But, like I said earlier, Rivers’ biggest hurdle was: not making a blunder that lost the game. Some players are winners; others find inventive ways to lose.



Everybody seems to forget the incredible talent the Chargers had during the early part of Rivers' career. They were rated as the most talented roster in football by a mile.

How does this escape anyone who was around to watch football in those days? They were literally ranked as the most talented team in the NFL for years. Rivers teams won accolades for being talented. Ben's teams went to and won Super Bowls.

Sometimes people try to overthink this stuff to get the outcome they desire.

[pczach]

Why would you have a Ben avatar on a Steelers message board? That’s just nonsense!! Lol



Who do these people think they are? :chuckle:

[polamalubeast]

Everybody seems to forget the incredible talent the Chargers had during the early part of Rivers' career. They were rated as the most talented roster in football by a mile.

How does this escape anyone who was around to watch football in those days? They were literally ranked as the most talented team in the NFL for years. Rivers teams won accolades for being talented. Ben's teams went to and won Super Bowls.

Sometimes people try to overthink this stuff to get the outcome they desire.

From 2007 to 2011, the Chargers had the same or better super bowl odds than the Steelers...But,but,but...Norv Turner!

[Edman]

If Ben were truly the driving force of all the Steelers Championship teams, his very own teammates would've recognized it as such. He's been voted Team MVP. Once. 2009, a season where the Steelers missed the playoffs. None of the Super Bowl seasons. The "cancers", Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell, no longer on the team, have six team MVP's between them.

And whether we choose to see it or not, and this will piss off a lot of people here, the NFL feels the same way. This year on the top 100, Ben only placed #44, the highest he's ever placed was 18th. Ben was never considered among the special class of elite Quarterbacks of his era, nor the best to play his position. Not a single league award and never in the conversation. Ben has always been considered the best of the second tier with occasional mention. There is a reason for that. In this pass-happy era that heavily favors quarterbacks and offense. It speaks volumes that Ben eclipsed thirty touchdown passes or more just three times, and in one of those seasons, he lead the league in pass attempts and also lead the league in interceptions (2018). The Steelers Offense never ascended to the level of elite. Ben is considered to be a cog in the system. An important cog for sure, but not the engine.

The Ben fanboys' best answer to this is to cry that he's underrated, call the critics bad names, denigrate the talent around him ("Ben carried the team to XL!"), like bashing the O-Line, or bashing the receivers, or bashing the coaches, unable to see the reality right in front of them. Ben has the talent and ability to be one of the greats, but has ascended to the realm of "very good". Ben is very good. Provided something special happens this upcoming season that completely changes the perception of him, Ben's place in NFL history will be as a "very good" NFL quarterback. Future HOF'er for sure, but not anything first-ballot.

[polamalubeast]

If Ben were truly the driving force of all the Steelers Championship teams, his very own teammates would've recognized it as such. He's been voted Team MVP. Once. 2009, a season where the Steelers missed the playoffs. None of the Super Bowl seasons. The "cancers", Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell, no longer on the team, have six team MVP's between them.

And whether we choose to see it or not, and this will piss off a lot of people here, the NFL feels the same way. This year on the top 100, Ben only placed #44, the highest he's ever placed was 18th. Ben was never considered among the special class of elite Quarterbacks of his era, nor the best to play his position. Not a single league award and never in the conversation. Ben has always been considered the best of the second tier with occasional mention. There is a reason for that. In this pass-happy era that heavily favors quarterbacks and offense. It speaks volumes that Ben eclipsed thirty touchdown passes or more just three times, and in one of those seasons, he lead the league in pass attempts and also lead the league in interceptions (2018). The Steelers Offense never ascended to the level of elite. Ben is considered to be a cog in the system. An important cog for sure, but not the engine.

The Ben fanboys' best answer to this is to cry that he's underrated, call the critics bad names, denigrate the talent around him ("Ben carried the team to XL!"), like bashing the O-Line, or bashing the receivers, or bashing the coaches, unable to see the reality right in front of them. Ben has the talent and ability to be one of the greats, but has ascended to the realm of "very good". Ben is very good. Provided something special happens this upcoming season that completely changes the perception of him, Ben's place in NFL history will be as a "very good" NFL quarterback. Future HOF'er for sure, but not anything first-ballot.

The best QB in the NFL ... No .... A top 5 QB for most of his career? ... Yes ... I do not understand why you see that as a bad thing....I do not know what you want as QB?...He is in the top 5 in winning pourcentage in NFL history for a QB with 100 wins..Only Brady,Montana,Bradshaw and Peyton Manning are better...

https://www.footballdb.com/stats/qb-records.html?alltime=1&type=reg&letter=&sort=w


And lol at the top 100 rankings ... This rankings has no credibility since day one.

[BlackAndGold]

Team MVP voting is irrelevant. Ben winning it once prove that point. Did JuJu winning it last year mean he was more valuable to the team than Ben or AB? the answer is no. I also believe Ben has noted before he does not seek to win the award and prefer the team to choose others. Everyone on the team and the media whom covers the team knows Ben is the team MVP.

The NFL top 100 list is popularity contest. Ben has been viewed as a top 5 QB for most of his career. He's not on Brady's level whom is the greatest ever, also not good as Rodgers, Brees and Manning, but after that he's the next guy with the best resume.

Ben will be a first ballot Hall Of Famer.

[Butch]

If Ben were truly the driving force of all the Steelers Championship teams, his very own teammates would've recognized it as such. He's been voted Team MVP. Once. 2009, a season where the Steelers missed the playoffs. None of the Super Bowl seasons. The "cancers", Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell, no longer on the team, have six team MVP's between them.

And whether we choose to see it or not, and this will piss off a lot of people here, the NFL feels the same way. This year on the top 100, Ben only placed #44, the highest he's ever placed was 18th. Ben was never considered among the special class of elite Quarterbacks of his era, nor the best to play his position. Not a single league award and never in the conversation. Ben has always been considered the best of the second tier with occasional mention. There is a reason for that. In this pass-happy era that heavily favors quarterbacks and offense. It speaks volumes that Ben eclipsed thirty touchdown passes or more just three times, and in one of those seasons, he lead the league in pass attempts and also lead the league in interceptions (2018). The Steelers Offense never ascended to the level of elite. Ben is considered to be a cog in the system. An important cog for sure, but not the engine.

The Ben fanboys' best answer to this is to cry that he's underrated, call the critics bad names, denigrate the talent around him ("Ben carried the team to XL!"), like bashing the O-Line, or bashing the receivers, or bashing the coaches, unable to see the reality right in front of them. Ben has the talent and ability to be one of the greats, but has ascended to the realm of "very good". Ben is very good. Provided something special happens this upcoming season that completely changes the perception of him, Ben's place in NFL history will be as a "very good" NFL quarterback. Future HOF'er for sure, but not anything first-ballot.

Oh look out everybody the pre-schoolers are posting in here today. Did you and El Gonzo get together on the playground and scheme to call fellow posters "fanboys"??? And then you get offended by people calling critics "bad names"...oh my. You and El Gonzo have no problems trying to flame fellow posters, but we should all respect the press because they are...well the press. Maybe the Ben haters will learn how to have an adult conversation some day instead of resorting to pre-school tactics. Grow up.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Future HOF'er for sure, but not anything first-ballot.

Ben Roethlisberger – Steelers QB

Speaking of Big Ben, the only thing that could hold him back is if he becomes eligible at the same time as, say, Brady, Rodgers, and Brees. But if he does step away independent of the other great quarterbacks of his generation, he's a lock to make into Canton on his first try.

Big Ben has the Super Bowls (two in three appearances), the longevity (he's been going strong since 2004), and the stats (eighth in passing yards, ninth in passing touchdowns, and ninth in passer rating). Assuming he keeps it up for a couple more years, he's a lock (also assuming Brady, Rodgers, and Brees don't all retire at the same time).

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/from-brady-to-brees-10-active-players-who-will-become-first-ballot-hall-of-famers/

[Edman]

Ben Roethlisberger – Steelers QB

Speaking of Big Ben, the only thing that could hold him back is if he becomes eligible at the same time as, say, Brady, Rodgers, and Brees. But if he does step away independent of the other great quarterbacks of his generation, he's a lock to make into Canton on his first try.

Big Ben has the Super Bowls (two in three appearances), the longevity (he's been going strong since 2004), and the stats (eighth in passing yards, ninth in passing touchdowns, and ninth in passer rating). Assuming he keeps it up for a couple more years, he's a lock (also assuming Brady, Rodgers, and Brees don't all retire at the same time).

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/from-brady-to-brees-10-active-players-who-will-become-first-ballot-hall-of-famers/

"Ben is first ballot if those other quarterbacks don't retire at the same time" isn't exactly a ringing endorsement.

This is one of the biggest articles heaping praise placed upon Ben, and even he admits this.

[SteelersNorth]

"Ben is first ballot if those other quarterbacks don't retire at the same time" isn't exactly a ringing endorsement.

This is one of the biggest articles heaping praise placed upon Ben, and even he admits this.


I wouldn't be putting Rodgers in ahead of Ben. The unjustified love affair and free passes he gets for his teams failures as a 'star' QB are disgusting and that's putting it mildly.
Rodgers was gifted an MVP award in 2014 when it was rightfully JJ Watts with 20+ sacks, he was scoring TDs on fumble returns it seemed with regularity, and even did it on offense when called upon and literally carried the Texans single handedly
but hey we love Mr Overrated so lets be nice and give him another MVP to justify his standing as this GOD of QBs...it was a total joke then and still is now.

The NFL media and its outlets easily control how people perceive players and in saying that some of it does make sense but the specific narratives relating to the Steelers a lot of times have never made sense.
Just this year some have said what will the Steelers do without Bell...well dumb dumbs he wasn't around last year and the running game for 80% of the season was perfectly fine.
then what will the Steelers do without AB...again they'll do just fine. They should be saying how will AB do without Ben because sans Ben his stats are pretty shitty of around 90 catches less than 1000 yards and no TDs (that's extrapolating it over 16 games with it being 4)

Personally I think when Ben retires is when people media included will realize how good he really was.

[polamalubeast]

"Ben is first ballot if those other quarterbacks don't retire at the same time" isn't exactly a ringing endorsement.

This is one of the biggest articles heaping praise placed upon Ben, and even he admits this.

Why?

I do not think becoming a HOF is a bad thing, one way or the other, but you always work hard to find negative things about Ben and when he has a bad play or a bad game that's a party for you!

The problem with that is that we can find a lot of negative things to every QB and players, but being a top 20 QB of all-time is like a bad thing for you since being top 5 in the winning percentage of all-time and will finish his career in regular season win and have over 60,000 yards, Ben really deserves to be said that he is an underachiever :ranger::ranger:

[teegre]

lets not forget when Tomlinson went out for a breather not only Sproles was a potential breather back but so was Michael Turner ( before he went on to fame and $$ in Atlanta )

Impressive!!! Truly. Not many outside of San Diego know how good The Burner was. This post made my day. :nod:

[polamalubeast]

Maybe the Steelers will trade one of their backup(Dobbs) to the eagles...I do not think it's going to happen, but we never know, the eagles need a backup QB.

1162355167255130113

[polamalubeast]

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Not bad for a QB who is dumb and that he can't read a defense.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Not bad for a QB who is dumb and that he can't read a defense.

if only Ben studied more film like Peyton...

[teegre]

Not bad for a QB who is dumb and that he can't read a defense.

Pfff... :director: FANBOY!!!

[Six Rings]

I think Rudolph looked better last week, and if he does the same this week will win the back up role.

Which leaves us to Dobbs vs Hodges. Can we trade either for a draft pick?

[hawaiiansteeler]

Which leaves us to Dobbs vs Hodges. Can we trade either for a draft pick?

Dobbs maybe, Hodges definitely not.

[polamalubeast]

I thin Rudolph looked better last week, and if he does the same this wee will win the back up role.

Which leaves us to Dobbs vs Hodges. Can we trade either for a draft pick?


Maybe for a seven round draft pick...

[BlackAndGold]

Maybe for a seven round draft pick...

Must say, if they could get a 7th round pick for a QB that had to tryout for a contract that's fantastic.

[polamalubeast]

Must say, if they could get a 7th round pick for a QB that had to tryout for a contract that's fantastic.

Yeah, but unfortunately I was talking for Dobbs, not for Hodges..I forgot to say it was for Dobbs.

I do not think the steelers would have a draft pick for Hodges ... He could even stay on the pratice squad all year long

[Edman]

Rudolph once again looks like a competent quarterback, and was let down by a lot of drops.

Dobbs is a coin flip. Can drive the ball down the field but his accuracy sucks.

[polamalubeast]

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The replay that I just saw on the interception of Dobbs is even worse than I thought

[teegre]

On Dobbs’s first pass, if he leads Washington, it’s a 75-yard TD. It’s still a good play (40 yards), but it’s a microcosm of who Dobbs is: good, but not great.

[Fire Goodell]

Keep Rudolph and Hodges, Dobbs looked like crap even against the backups

[BlackAndGold]

Hodge is just a gamer. He's calm and collective.

[86WARD]

I like Dobbs as a person but I think I’d be working on trying to unload him via trade...

[BlackAndGold]

I like Dobbs as a person but I think I’d be working on trying to unload him via trade...

For a tight end please.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Hodge is just a gamer. He's calm and collective. He kinda has that Tom Brady rookie feel to him.

[Edman]

Dobbs lost the #2 spot tonight, and after that pick he threw you can see he just realized it himself.

Dobbs is a very good person whom I feel bad for, but there is no Landry Jones to outplay this year for him. #3 is no sure thing for Dobbs either, because here comes Hodges out of nowhere.

Devlin Hodges. Where in the flying hell did this guy come from?

[st33lersguy]

Honestly, Hodges need to be given a serious look at a roster spot over Dobbs, not practice squad because some other team will poach him.

[Craic]

With this game over, I came away unimpressed with both QBs.

Rudolph reminds me of a more efficient Landry Jones. He won't lose games, but so far, he hasn't shown that he is going to win games, either. It's too early to drop the title, "Game Manager" on him, but that is the feeling I am getting from him. Dobbs can make things happen, but his inaccuracy means he makes bad things happen as well. He had some nice passes down the field, some so-so passes, and some what-are-you-thinking passes.

One thing's for sure, as of right now, we do not have the future QB on this roster. Thank God we didn't waste a higher round on Rudolph or Dobbs. If I had my druthers and this game was indicative of what we will see in the future, I'd trade whichever one garnered any kind of draft pick, and then start pairing low-round picks and trading them for higher round picks over the next couple of years until we could pair a first and two seconds to move high in the draft and pick a QB when Ben is closer to retiring.

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Honestly, Hodges need to be given a serious look at a roster spot over any QB not named Ben, not practice squad because some other team will poach him.

Fixed it for ya.

[Rotorhead]

Rudolph passed Dobbs tonight, Dobbs sidearming that INT was bad, especially given the wr was open. Unfortunately I only got to see half cause NFL network screwed up the game and only showed half. If Hodges played as well as he did last week, I would keep Rudolph and Hodges and try and trace Dobbs.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Rudolph passed Dobbs tonight, Dobbs sidearming that INT was bad, especially given the wr was open. Unfortunately I only got to see half cause NFL network screwed up the game and only showed half. If Hodges played as well as he did last week, I would keep Rudolph and Hodges and try and trace Dobbs.From what I seen so far out of the three QB's Dobbs should be the one cut or traded. He hasn't look horrible but Rudolph and Hodges just look better. Sounds crazy but who knows and Hodges could be Ben's Heir to the thrown in a few years.

[Edman]

If Hodges wasn't around It wouldn't matter who was #2 to me. Rudolph and Dobbs are our guys going into 2019.

Duck Dynasty has emerged as a darkhorse, and he won't go away.

[Six Rings]

I like Dobbs as a person but I think I’d be working on trying to unload him via trade...



Rudolph looked like a decent quarterback. Capable of making sustained drives for touchdowns.


Dobbs good #3, but not exactly consistent enough to be the #2.


I'd trade him for a 5th round pick if there are any takers.

[polamalubeast]

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[polamalubeast]

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[polamalubeast]

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[st33lersguy]

I know Hodges is playing against 3rd stringers/guys who get cut but he looked good out there. And that one TD throw to Dionte Johnson while under pressure was an NFL caliber throw

[polamalubeast]

I know Hodges is playing against 3rd stringers/guys who get cut but he looked good out there. And that one TD throw to Dionte Johnson while under pressure was an NFL caliber throw

And the problem with Dobbs is he is not consistant in the routine throw, as we can see in the tweet in post number 242 of this page

He showed 3 throw (2 yesterday and his bad throw against the raiders last year) and it was bad

It's easy for opposing defense to play against a QB like him when you're prepared since the only thing you need to do is play a soft zone and tackle the catch strategy since Dobbs struggle way too much to make his routine throw...

[teegre]

Devlin Hodges. Where in the flying hell did this guy come from?

He is the NCAA’s all-time leading passer (yards).

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I know Hodges is playing against 3rd stringers/guys who get cut but he looked good out there. And that one TD throw to Dionte Johnson while under pressure was an NFL caliber throw

Indeed.

The first knock on him was that he played at a smaller school/against weaker competition. But, so did Khalil Mack... and, Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, heck, even Big Ben.

People will disregard what Hodges is doing, because it’s against “back-ups”. But, the kid has “it”. He was the talk of minicamp for a reason.

[Butch]

He is the NCAA’s all-time leading passer (yards).

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Indeed.

The first knock on him was that he played at a smaller school/against weaker competition. But, so did Khalil Mack... and, Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, heck, even Big Ben.

People will disregard what Hodges is doing, because it’s against “back-ups”. But, the kid has “it”. He was the talk of minicamp for a reason.

How many people here ever heard of Augustana college in Illinois?

Some guy named Kenny Anderson came from there.

Eastern Illinois - Tony Romo

[polamalubeast]

He is the NCAA’s all-time leading passer (yards).

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Indeed.

The first knock on him was that he played at a smaller school/against weaker competition. But, so did Khalil Mack... and, Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, heck, even Big Ben.

People will disregard what Hodges is doing, because it’s against “back-ups”. But, the kid has “it”. He was the talk of minicamp for a reason.

I saw another time on twitter that the comparison with Hodges was Tony Romo!

Romo was also an undrafted free agent.

[teegre]

How many people here ever heard of Augustana college in Illinois?

Some guy named Kenny Anderson came from there.

Pffft... what did he ever do!?!

Next you’ll try to tell me that some QB from Northern Illinois would be found bagging groceries one year, and then become the league MVP the next year.


Joking aside, the fact that Night Train Lane got drafted out of community college is the all-time “rags to riches” draft story.

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I saw another time on twitter that the comparison with Hodges was Tony Romo!

Romo was also an undrafted free agent.

Yep. But, enough about the broadcast booth... :lol:

[Steeldude]

BR, Rudolph, Hodges.

Trade Dobbs.

[Butch]

Dick "Night Train" Lane - what a story. The bus he rode went past the Rams stadium. He walked in and handed them a scrapbook and asked for a tryout. He originally was trying for a WR position. That is an all-time "rags to riches" story.