A very special edition of the Eye this week, as we preview the Super Bowl and combine my column with the GANT Gridiron Challenge. Jay Siegel, Chris Morelli, Dustin Parks, Rusty McCracken and I participated in the Challenge for the last 3+ months, and we each will answer Super Bowl-related questions below, and finish with our predictions for the big game. We also had a season-long contest to see who the most accurate ‘pigskin prognosticator’ is in the GANT sports department….and with one game to go, Chris has claimed that title. Congratulations Chris! Now on to the hot topics for the game…
Question #1: Now that he’s led the Steelers to three Super Bowls, how do you rate Roethlisberger, both compared to his peers (Manning, Brady, etc) and to history – particularly Bradshaw?
Jay: I rate QBs on wins and Big Ben is a winner. It’s very difficult to compare QBs across generations because the game has morphed into something so different than the 70’s when guys like Bradshaw played. Roethlisberger compares very favorably to the top QBs of today. I don’t know that Manning or Brady would have any more success with the Steelers than Big Ben does. I also don’t know if Ben would be capable of the numbers that those guys put up if he played for the pass-happy Colts or Patriots. The bottom-line is that Roethlisberger MAKES PLAYS. If he can stay on the “straight and narrow” off the field, I wouldn’t trade him for anyone in the league. If he wins another Super Bowl, and it doesn’t have to be this year, he will end up in Canton despite not having the stats that a lot of non-hall-of-famers from this era will end up with.
Dustin: Roethlisberger is a very strong quarterback and is at the great, elite level. I always have said that Peyton Manning right now is the best quarterback in the league because he has the most control of his offense. Brady, he won his three Super Bowls, but lost the one with the pressure on when they went for a 19-0 season. Ben, I think he’s still got some time to get to that major elite level because although he’s got two rings compared to Peyton’s one, he has to put his own stamp on Steelers history. You look at quarterbacks like Terry Bradshaw and they were elite in their own era. Right now, I think it’s more of a battle of the elite level quarterbacks between Brady and Ben, and I think Ben has the edge because he does so much more at his position. He’ll get out of the pocket and make plays, whereas Brady just takes a sack and won’t run. Ben is there, and against the Packers he’ll just add another chapter.
Rusty: It’s always hard to compare careers and the different eras that people played. Some would argue that the additional teams in the modern era have a tendency to weaken the talent pool, but the speed and strength of those guys might suggest otherwise. Bradshaw had Franco to turn to who seemed to be more reliable on the ground (that might be my skewed memory). Roethlisberger has had more talented receivers on the field at one time than any other Steelers’ QB. But, we only remember results, and three appearances in six seasons has to rank him among the top – Jim Kelly was there four times in a row and lost all of them, and he was thought to be pretty good. However, we should also consider whether the original “Steel Curtain” scored as much as the present “D” does to bail out the offense. Put him with his peers and how can he not compare. He and his teammates have climbed over any and everyone over the last six years.
Dave: Has Big Ben ever NOT been considered a good QB in this town? Let’s recall that in 1975, the Steelers’ own coach didn’t believe in Terry Bradshaw – Joe Gilliam played most of the first half of that season. Now, I give Bradshaw full marks for improving from there, and this isn’t meant to be a slam on Bradshaw – but Big Ben went 13-1 as a starter in his first season and has never looked back – and while he’s had some good receivers, he’s never had the type of ground game that Bradshaw enjoyed. In my opinion, Ben is already the best QB in Steeler history. Relative to his peers, I know everyone wants to talk about wins and losses – and given the importance of the QB position, I understand that. However, football requires 22 players, and even a great QB cannot single-handedly carry a team to a title. Look at Peyton Manning – this year he dragged a poor team to a 10-6 record, led a drive to score the (apparent) game-winning FG against the Jets – only to see his kick coverage/defensive teammates collapse in the final minute. Does that loss mean he’s a lesser QB? I think Ben deserves to be mentioned with the great QBs of our time – Brady, Manning, Favre – but picking one over the other is foolish. They will all be in Canton in ten or fifteen years, and we are privileged to watch such transcendent QB play.
Chris: Win or lose on Sunday, Ben Roethlisberger is one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. Right now, I’d rank him No. 2 behind Tom Brady, although Brady has lost his last three postseason games. As a Pittsburgh Steeler fan, I like that he’s our QB. Sure, there’s been some off-the-field stuff, but people need to forgive and forget. If he delivers another ring to the city, they will. In my opinion, he’s already better than Terry Bradshaw because Bradshaw had a great defense and many, many weapons on offense. Ben’s defense has been good, not great (see Super Bowl XLIII) and he doesn’t have Lynn Swann or John Stallworth to throw the ball to. At times, the ground game has been non-existent.
Question #2: Does Hines Ward need a win here to make the Hall of Fame (not if YOU would vote for him – do you think the voters need that extra weight)? Also, BRIEFLY predict the number of future hall-of-famers on the Steeler roster.
Chris: Hines Ward is a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He has the numbers and he plays with the heart of a champion. It’s been fun to watch his progression from third-round pick to seasoned vet over the past 13 years. Some will call him a dirty player, but he’s just playing hard-nosed football. That’s why Pittsburgh loves him so much. He plays Steeler football.
As for future Hall of Famers — I believe Big Ben, Hines Ward and Troy Polamalu will be in Canton someday.
Jay: IF Ward ever makes the Hall it will be because of being on Super Bowl winning teams. Guys like Swann and Stallworth made the Hall based on the success of the Steeler teams of the 70’s and the fact that they were considered among the best at their position when they played (esp. Swann). Not sure Ward is considered among the best WRs at this time or at any time in his career. Is he one of the best football players – yes, WRs – not sure. He’s a grind it out type of receiver, not the Jerry Rice, Lance Alworth-type home run hitter that makes the Hall. Not sure if he’ll ever make it when guys like Andre Reed are struggling to get in. Yet, Ward is tied with Randy Moss on the all-time receptions list and I consider Moss a shoo-in!
Steeler HOFers – Big Ben, Polamalu for sure. Harrison, Ward maybe. Too early to tell – Pouncey (if Dermontti Dawson makes it that increases Pouncey’s chances if he has a long storied Steeler career because of the lineage)
Dustin: Hines Ward has two Super Bowls, and has been with only one team since his career started. He is a guaranteed hall of famer even if the Steelers lose this game. Look at his career at Pittsburgh and it says it all. Swann and Stallworth combined don’t have as many receptions and receiving yards as Ward. Not only that, but I don’t think you will find a happier player on the field than Ward. Only time he doesn’t smile is if he’s not on the field. That’s how much Ward loves the game. John Elway was a sure-fire Hall of Fame player before he won his two Super Bowls. Ward doesn’t need a third to guarantee his trip.
As for future hall of famers on the roster, the two obvious names are Polamalu and Ben. I wouldn’t be surprised as well to see Harrison or Farrior maybe get into that level. On offense I think Miller may get there also, and if Mike Wallace has many more seasons like he did this year, Canton will be calling.
Rusty: I would hope Ward doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone. His stats have surpassed two Steelers’ Hall of Famers in Lynn Swann and John Stallworth, including two Super Bowl rings, an MVP and numerous game-(season) changing catches. If he is not in, the voters should lose their votes. Forget the fact that there are more games in the modern season. His longevity and toughness to stay on the field has to be noted.
How many other players will earn the Hall is a tough question. This Steelers group has been underrated in my opinion (even with the #1 defense in the league). It seems like people just expect it, or give all the credit to Dick LeBeau. The coach is already in, they may not reward as many players. Plus, with the bad-boy image that the penalties and fines are causing, people may overlook the talent. I would hope that this team posts six or seven honorees with more to come depending on the young guy’s future years.
Dave: I picked this question because I think Ward is going to be one of the most interesting calls for the HOF Committee in six or seven years. His numbers do not stand out in an offensive-minded era – yet he is widely considered the best blocking wideout of our generation. He’s absolutely HATED by many opposing players and coaches; will that hurt his standing when the votes are tallied? In the end, I think they will elect him win or lose – but a third ring makes him a likely first-ballot entry, while a loss has a good chance of pushing him back a few years.
Among the current squad, like everyone else I think Ben and Polamalu are shoo-ins, and I think Harrison will get consideration. I’d like to throw a surprise name at you: Aaron Smith. He is widely considered the best 3-4 defensive end in the game, and while there are no individual stats to shine glory on him, the Steelers’ incredible run defense over the past decade will work in his favor. I think SOMEONE along the defensive front has to be recognized, and I think Hampton is a longshot because they sub him out so often on passing downs. Additionally, I think Heath Miller and Mike Wallace have a chance – obviously they have to produce for quite a while yet.
Question #3: If the Packers are to win, what are three keys for them?
Dave: Some will talk about having success running – I think a key for Green Bay is to NOT try to run. Pittsburgh WANTS opponents to be stubborn about ‘establishing the run’ – by and large, those are wasted downs for offenses. If Green Bay calls more than 20 rush plays they either got out to a big early lead, or they will lose. The Packers also have to protect Rodgers well, and complete a lot of short passes – the Steelers are very adept at taking away the deep ball, but most of the time that intermediate route is available. Defensively, the Packers have to keep Ben in the pocket. Everyone talks about it, few can pull it off. Also, they should throw a changeup at Ben – take away Heath Miller and Mike Wallace and see if Ward still can be ‘the man’ for a big game.
Chris: If the Packers are to win, here are their keys to the game: 1. Bring Down Big Ben. The Pack cannot let the QB get out of the pocket and make plays. It’s been said this week that tackling him is like bringing down a polar bear. If the Packers can frazzle Big Ben into taking several sacks or throwing a couple of picks, they win. 2. Spread The Steelers Out. If the Packers can use their dynamic group of receivers to spread the Steelers out, it could lead to some big plays. The Steeler secondary is the weak spot. Attack it. 3. Win the Special Teams Battle. The Packers have the better punter and kicker. If they can pin the Steelers back deep and win the field position battle, it could lead to easy points.
Jay: Not let Big Ben kill them with second chance-type plays. Must stop the run better than the Jets did. Keep Aaron Rodgers in the game (if he gets knocked out, they’re done).
Dustin: The Packers have to find a way to contain Roethlisberger in the pocket. Ben is a better passer outside the box when using his improvisation. If they can keep him contained, they have a chance. At the same time, on offense they have to figure out exactly how to find a kink in the Steel Curtain defense. Obviously they don’t have a big ground game, but they need to find a way to stretch that defense and get some yards early. That’s how they beat the Bears early on by stretching the defense and scoring quickly. I think the other key is Aaron Rodgers not getting caught up in the spotlight that is his first Super Bowl. Sure, he’s already beat the idea of him being the heir to Brett Favre in Green Bay, but now he needs to finish the job, another thing Favre did at Green Bay…win his first Super Bowl in his first start.
Rusty: The Packers have to continue to run the ball effectively to set up the pass and be able to stop Mendenhall and Redd to have a chance.
Question #4: If the Steelers are to win, what are three keys for them?
Rusty: I don’t want to sound redundant, but flip the Packer’s keys to the Steelers. The best running game, and the defense that can stop its opponent’s will win the game.
Dave: Win the turnover battle, keep Ben upright, rattle Rodgers, and establish SOME kind of running game. Essentially, do what they’ve done almost all season.
Chris: If the Steelers are to win, here are their keys to the game: 1. Ball Control. If the Steelers can run the ball effectively and enjoy long drives that end in touchdowns, they will keep the Packers off the field and keep the ball out of Aaron Rodgers’ hand. Enough said. 2. Pressure Rodgers. I believe that Rodgers got his bell rung in the second half of the NFC championship game. If the Steelers can get to him — and get to him early — they will throw him off his game. They need to get in his face and rattle him. 3. Let Big Ben be Big Ben. Look, the Steelers’ offensive line is average at best. That means offensive coordinator Bruce Arians is going to have to let Roethlisberger run around back there and be a gunslinger. However, turnovers will be key. Ben cannot afford to throw picks like he did in the AFC title game.
Jay: They must be able to run the ball. Steeler secondary will really have to step up because Packers are a lot more than just Rodgers to Jennings in the passing game. Big Ben just has to keep doing what Big Ben does – make plays.
Dustin: The Steelers know what brought them to the big dance, and that’s defense. In essence, they’re basically playing against a skinnier Ben, as Rodgers has a lot of the same qualities that he does. He’s mobile, accurate, and has a strong arm. The linebackers need to keep their eyes on Rodgers at all times because he will make players miss. I’d also watch the secondary and corners. Donald Driver and Greg Jennings are a great 1-2 tandem, just like Hines Ward and Mike Wallace. Plus, just as Pittsburgh has Heath Miller, Green Bay has Andrew Quarless, formerly of Penn State. He is a great pass blocker and receiver, so the secondary needs to be on their toes. Finally, they have to establish the ground game early. Not only with Mendenhall and Moore, but also if need be Roethlisberger. If the ground game is working early, then the passing offense will be very good.
Question #5: Who do you think will be the unsung hero? (or two)
Dustin: I’m probably gonna be laughed out of the building when I say this, but my unsung hero is Shaun Suisham. Think about it, we all spent most of the beginning of the season complaining about how horrible Jeff Reed was, his horrible misses, and his lack-of-production. Yet, when Suisham comes in and does his job, as in missing only one field goal in the regular season and another one during the post-season, and we don’t talk about him as much. There’s no need because as long as he’s making his kicks, there’s no need to talk about him. I have a feeling if this comes down to Suisham’s right toe, he will not be worried. I won’t put him at the level yet of Adam Vinatieri, but if he kicked the game-winning field goal on Sunday, he deserves that kind of recognition.
Rusty: I look for Heath Miller (who never gets enough credit) to be a big part of the offensive game, and Harrison and Farrior to be keys on the defense. Hopefully, the defensive secondary won’t be the unsung goats.
Dave: If the Packers win, I’ll say one of their corners – they will be put in one-on-one matchups a lot, and if they win those matchups they will win the game. For the Steelers, I’m going with the entire O-line, particularly Legursky – it looks like Pouncey won’t play, so the whole line is now officially a ‘patchwork’ group, and there’s simply no depth at all now. If this line can manage to open a few holes for Mendenhall and give Ben enough time to make plays, it will be the most amazing accomplishment I’ve seen from an O-line in a long time. Having said that, this is a game where great players make great plays, and I expect the MVP will be a very familiar name either way.
Chris: My unsung hero is Mike Wallace. I think Wallace fills the void left by Santonio Holmes and will be Ben’s go-to guy on Sunday. There are still some fans around the league who don’t know who this guy is. Be prepared to hear his name a lot in XLV.
Jay: If the Packers win – one of their second tier receivers like Jordy Nelson or James Jones. If the Steelers win – there will be no “unsung hero” because Roethlisberger/Polamalu/Harrison will be MVP.
Finally, our Last Word on the game, with predictions:
Jay: The final word here is that I’m picking the Steelers to win. Not because of their Super Bowl experience or that they got to stay home for playoffs – just think that they’ll find a way to win like they so often do. I think the dome gives the Packers a bit of an advantage and that’s why they’re a FG favorite (see Rodgers vs. Atlanta in divisional playoffs), but that ‘Steeler D’ will find a way. The over/under is 44.5 last I saw – I’m going the other way from a lot of the “experts” and taking the under because both of these defenses are for real. Pittsburgh – 24, GB – 20.
Dustin: This is a game with the two most historical teams in the NFL. It’s Vince Lombardi against Chuck Noll, It’s Mike Holmgren against Bill Cowher, and now it’s Mike McCarthy against Mike Tomlin. Title Town vs. Six-Burgh, the Cheese Heads vs. the Steel Curtain. If you really think about it, this is a game with the deepest, richest history in the NFL. It’s a game defined by championships, and the fans love it. The NFL season ends Sunday, but this game will leave a lasting impression on every fan, player, and staff member that will be sitting inside Cowboys Stadium. But who to choose? Do I go with Aaron Rodgers, who’s officially stepped out of the shadow of Green Bay’s former quarterback, and his Green Bay Packers. Or, do I go with Ben Roethlisberger, who had to overcome his off-the-field fiascoes while his team continued to play exceptionally without him, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. After two weeks of thinking, and thanks to a little bit of help from Madden NFL 2011, I have made my decision. My Super Bowl XLV champions: The PITTSBURGH STEELERS, with a final score of 27-23, same as when they beat the Cardinals.
Rusty: I think the Steelers will win the game and don’t look for them to only play one half of defense this week – sorry, Jets fans, but the AFC Championship game was never out of control. Why put your guys at risk with the Super Bowl on the line. Steelers win 27-17.
Dave: My heart says Pittsburgh, but my head says Green Bay. Frankly, there were only two playoff teams that really worried me as a Steeler fan – Green Bay and New England. Both teams have great QBs, spread the ball around, and do not care a lick about the running game if the passing game is working. Pittsburgh is at its best against great rushing teams, and highly susceptible to great passing teams. One has to look no further than the last time these teams met – in 2009, the Steelers only won because Ben threw for 500+ yards and played basically the game of his life. This Steeler offense isn’t as good – the line is worse and the receiving corps is not as deep (yet) – and the Steeler defense is more or less the same group that got torched a year ago. The only team that truly ripped apart Pittsburgh’s ‘D’ this season was New England – and that’s the blueprint for the Pack. No outcome except a blowout would surprise me – games this evenly matched usually come down to special teams (for once Pittsburgh probably has a coverage/return edge) or turnovers – and I dearly hope I’m wrong, but I think the PACKERS win a great game, 27-21.
Chris: I bleed black and gold and I’ve been pretty confident for the last two Super Bowls. I’m not as confident for this one. I do think, however, that experience in the big game will pay dividends for the Steelers. I also like Mike Tomlin to outcoach Mike McCarthy. Big Ben redeems himself on the game’s biggest stage. Steelers 31, Packers 27