In the latest episode of his podcast, “Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger,” the former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback offered scathing criticism of his former team’s current state.
Big Ben questioned the continuation of the Steelers longstanding tradition of pride, toughness and excellence. He also expressed concerns about the lack of leadership on the offensive side of the ball.
“Maybe the tradition of the Pittsburgh Steelers is done,” Roethlisberger said. “Who’s grabbing someone by the face mask and being like ‘No, that’s not what we do.’ Is that happening? You need someone to stand up in that room on offense and be like, ‘This isn’t what it means to wear the black and gold.’”
Big Ben on if the Steelers are losing the Steeler way:
“You need someone to stand up in that room on offense and be like hey this isn’t what it means to wear the black and gold.”#steelers
🎥YT/Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger pic.twitter.com/lh2iws5pWK
— Matthew Luciow (@matthewluciow92) December 11, 2023
Roethlisberger’s comments caused quite a stir in the football world. Most people admired Big Ben’s passion and willingness to tell it like it is.
However, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith made it clear he wasn’t a fan of Big Ben’s criticism.
“Your hands ain’t clean in all of this,” Smith said on First Take, suggesting that Roethlisberger played a role in the team’s decline.
“Last three years in the league, Ben Roethlisberger should’ve been gone. You were a statue,” he said.
Stephen A Smith says Ben Roethlisberger’s hands are not clean in all of this. (Via First Take on ESPN) #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/3R7mpTxp5r
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) December 13, 2023
According to Smith, Roethlisberger’s prolonged tenure hindered the team’s transition and impeded the development of a new era.
“If you’re Big Ben Roethlisberger, I thought you stayed a couple of years too long, and I thought you sort of curtailed, or stymied the transition so the error would continue. I don’t think he did enough,” Smith added.
What’s your take on Smith’s comments?
Does Big Ben have blood on his hands when it comes to the perceived decline of the “Steeler Way?”
Or do you think Smith is out of line and Roethlisberger was just telling it like it is?
Regardless, Big Ben’s legendary career speaks for itself. He was far from perfect, both on and off the field. However, he grew up right before our eyes and became one of the most respect players in the NFL.
Whose side are you on???