Originally Posted by
El-Gonzo Jackson
I would say no. In Ben's first few seasons, he had O lines with quality guys like Marvel Smith, Alan Faneca, Jeff Hartings (all 3 were pro bowl caliber), Kendall Simmons, Max Starks, Willie Colon. He was the "extend the play" improviser from the start in the NFL.
I would say that his early success and physical stature gave him the "Big Ben" persona and when Whiz left at OC, the next man up liked a lot of 5 and 7 step drop passing plays that "Big Ben" liked to stand in a bit too long at times and get hit with some frequency.