February 7, 2010

Ben: PPG's "Steelers Player of the Decade"

Excerpts from the story written by Ed Bouchette this morning in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:

Imagine what might have occurred in the past decade had the Steelers drafted offensive lineman Shawn Andrews in the first round in 2004 instead of Ben Roethlisberger.

That was their intention, until Dan Rooney stepped in.

Rooney, in his 2007 autobiography, wrote that as the countdown to the 11th pick of the '04 draft continued "our people seemed to have focused on Shawn Andrews, a big offensive tackle from Arkansas as our likely number-one pick.

"But when our turn came, I couldn't bear the thought of passing on another great quarterback prospect the way we had passed on Dan Marino in 1983, so I steered the conversation around to Roethlisberger. After some more talk, we came to a consensus and picked Roethlisberger."

Roethlisberger merely put the Steelers over the top and helped deliver two Super Bowl victories. As he approaches his 28th birthday March 2, he should keep the position in good hands for the Steelers well into this next decade.

For those reasons and more, Ben Roethlisberger earns our Steelers player of the decade with a chance to earn the next one as well 10 years from now.

To read the article, click here.

Also, check out the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's "Top Plays of the Decade" list here.

February 5, 2010

"Locking in" that Super Bowl moment...

ESPN's David Fleming looks backs on a conversation he had with Ben in 2006 in his recent column on favorite Super Bowl games:

"It wasn't until the following summer, while traveling in Switzerland with Steelers QB (and fellow Miami University product) Ben Roethlisberger, that I got a good gauge on what the game means to the players. We were on a nearly vertical tram heading up to the top of the Swiss Alps when Roethlisberger confided to me that the main advice he got from older players in the league was to pick a specific moment of the Super Bowl and pause for just a split second and lock it into his brain for safe keeping. They told him to do this because the whole event is so huge and bizarre that when you're on the inside, it can go by in a blink without your noticing.

"So as the ball was kicked off and Ford Field sparkled with flashbulbs, Roethlisberger closed his eyes and took a moment to soak it all in. And that day in the Alps (now there's a beginning of a sentence you don't see too often), Roethlisberger closed his eyes and said he could still see, in his mind's eye, the kaleidoscope of flashing lights from the start of his Super Bowl."

To read the rest of his column, click here.

To read his story about the trip to Switzerland with the Roethlisberger family, click here.

Also Today:

ESPN's James Walker ranks Ben #2 in his AFC North "Fab 40" list -

2009 stats: 4,328 yards, 26 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 100.5 passer rating

Analysis: There is a lot of debate on where Roethlisberger ranks among the elite quarterbacks in the NFL, but he is undoubtedly one of the top players in the AFC North. Roethlisberger, 27, already has two Super Bowl rings and has yet to experience a losing season in the NFL. "Big Ben" can make all the throws, has good mobility in the pocket and put up career numbers in 2009. His backyard style is unconventional. Roethlisberger takes a lot of sacks. But he still doesn't get enough credit for his ability to shrug off would-be defenders while making big plays downfield.

You can check out Mr. Walker's entire list and analysis on each player here (P.S. Troy Polamalu was ranked #1!).

*Thank you to Trish!

February 3, 2010

"Ben Roethlisberger: Gifted and Giving Football Star"

From author Tom Robinson, a new book for young readers:

A 128-page biography entitled, "Ben Roethlisberger: Gifted and Giving Football Star" is the new release from his "Sports Stars Who Give Back" series.

After opening with his first Super Bowl victory in Chapter 1, the book, published by Enslow Publishers, Inc., moves chronologically through Ben's life, from childhood in Chapter 2 to the second Super Bowl victory in Chapter 10. It also chronicles his work in the community and his charities. The book is great reading for kids from 5th grade through the 8th grade.

From the author:

"Erin, the idea of the "Sports Stars Who Give Back" series is to inform young readers about successful and famous athletes who have also made positive contributions off the playing field."

From the publisher:

"Ben Roethlisberger followed up his record-setting college career by leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to two Super Bowl titles in his first five years in the NFL. Along the way, he has aided communities through a variety of charitable efforts."

Mr. Robinson has authored seventeen books that are in print. Another three are in the production stage and he's currently working on two more. His other "Sports Stars" books include the NBA's Shaquille O'Neil, MLB's Derek Jeter and Andruw Jones, NASCAR's Mark Martin and Kevin Harvick, soccer star David Beckham, and the NFL's Donovan McNabb. He is a resident of Clark's Summit, Pennsylvania and spent 18 years working at daily newspapers, including occasional coverage of the National Football League. The last five years of his newspaper career were spent as the sports editor of the Scranton Times-Tribune.

You can purchase his new book on Ben at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and Borders.com.

*Thank you so much to Mr. Robinson and to the editors at Enslow Publishers, Inc.!

And speaking of giving back to the community...

Ben in Miami this weekend for The Giving Back Fundraiser event -

The Giving Back Fund and producer/director Michael Bay will host approximately 300 celebrities, athletes, and business leaders in an invitation-only cocktail and dinner fundraiser at the director's home on Saturday, February 6th, 2010.

The event will raise money for The Giving Back Fund's philanthropic programs.

Guests include Ben, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Jason Taylor, Adam Sandler, Jay Cutler, Jennifer Lopez, Chace Crawford, Matthew Morrison, Eli Manning, Kristin Cavallari, Aaron Rogers, and Jerry Bruckheimer.

For more information on the event, click here.

*Thank you to Jan!

January 31, 2010

Ben & the Steelers on NFL Network...

Check out the schedule for the next two weeks -

Today at 3pm:

Super Bowl XL, Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Seattle Seahawks - Hines Ward propels the Steelers to victory over the Seahawks in Super Bowl XL February 5, 2006 at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan.

Today at 4:30pm (and again on Saturday, Feb. 6th at 9:30pm & Saturday Feb. 13th at 1pm):

Super Bowl XLIII, Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals - Ben Roethlisberger leads the Steelers to a dramatic come-from-behind victory in a wild back-and-forth game that set 12 Super Bowl records; Pittsburgh secured its record 6th Super Bowl with the win.

Friday, Feb. 5th at 8:30pm, Tuesday, Feb. 9th at 8:00pm, & Wednesday, Feb. 10th at 2:00pm:

Best of the Decade: The 2000s - The most memorable moments, plays, and players from the past ten years come to life through the images and sound of NFL Films, which names its Player, Coach, Team and Play of the Decade.

Monday, Feb. 8th at 6:00am & Tuesday, Feb. 9th at 4:30pm:

America's Game: 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers - Re-live the story of the 2008 Steelers through the eyes of Mike Tomlin, Ben Roethlisberger and Troy Polamalu. Narrated by Jon Hamm.

Friday, Feb. 12th at 6:30pm:

Weekly Countdown - 2009 Season: NFL Weekly Countdown looks at the most exciting moments from the 2009 NFL season.

To check NFL Network's full schedule, click here.

January 27, 2010

Ben makes the 2010 Sports Power 100 list

From Bloomberg Business Week today:

In today’s sports world, power is about more than speed and strength. It’s also about how to sell.

What is power? In athletics, it is usually thought of as bulging muscles and dominating performance. But in sports today, power has a different meaning as well: the earning potential of athletes, owners, agents, communities and brands, ranging from breakfast cereal to beer.

Because so much money is at stake, the question for general managers and brand managers alike is, "Which athlete?"

To determine who the 100 most powerful athletes are on and off the field, Bloomberg BusinessWeek teamed with CSE, formerly known as Career Sports & Entertainment, an integrated sports and entertainment company that connects brands with fans, and Bloomberg BusinessWeek columnist Rick Horrow of Horrow Sports Ventures and host of "The Sports Take with Sports Professor Rick Horrow," to create the 2010 version of the Power 100.

Unlike previous Power 100s, this year’s would focus only on athletes -- not owners, agents, commissioners or coaches. On- field metrics included athletes who scored the best on the field (or the rink, greens or court) over a two-year period. The more popular the sport, the more weight those achievements garnered.

Ben, who came in 54th in power ranking, shares the list with other superstar athletes such as Tiger Woods (1st), LeBron James (2nd), Albert Pujols (4th), Peyton (5th) and Eli Manning (18th), Steve Nash (55th), Alex Rodriguez (61st), Shaquille O’Neal (9th), Joe Mauer (19th), Tony Stewart (48th), Tom Brady (30th), Derek Jeter (33rd), Lorena Ochoa (56th), Chad Ochocinco (98th), Tony Romo (76th), Sidney Crosby (39th), and fellow teammate Troy Polamalu (69th).

Speaking of Big Ben...

From an article on Chaminade-Madonna College Prep quarterback Jerrard Randall that appeared in the Go Blue Wolverine Magazine:

Hollywood (FLA) Chaminade junior quarterback Jerrard Randall might end up being the top quarterback prospect in the 2011 Florida class, and college recruiters are taking notice. Randall had an amazing junior season, leading Chaminade deep into the playoffs, and establishing himself as a player to watch.

Although he is drawing comparisons to NFL quarterbacks Donovan McNabb and Troy Smith, he prefers to name another NFL great he likes to copy.

"I like Ben Roethlisberger, because I like to make plays with my legs, to keep plays alive," he stressed. "I'm a big Steeler fan, and he's my favorite player. I like the way he stays patient in the pocket and makes plays."

And from an article in the Mobile Press-Register today on Cincinnati quarterback Tony Pike:

Before coming to the Senior Bowl, Cincinnati quarterback Tony Pike visited with Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and picked his brain.

Pike said the chat with Roethlisberger, set up by his agent, was insightful.

"In making the transition (to pro football), he told me what to expect at the Senior Bowl -- even though he left (college) early and didn't play in the game -- and what to expect at the (NFL) combine," Pike said. "He told me, 'Be yourself, don't hide anything, just let people get to know you.'"

More on Tony Pike...

Pike's impact on Cincinnati's unblemished regular season was obvious. He earned first-team All-Big East honors and was named the 2009 Male Athlete of the Year by the Touchdown Club of Columbus, Ohio. He ended his career by throwing for at least one touchdown in 17 consecutive games and collected 5,018 passing yards and 49 touchdown throws in 27 career games. He holds the school record for completion percentage (61.7).

Now he wants to prove he's ready to play at the pro level.

Mike Mayock of the NFL Network currently ranks Pike as the fifth-best quarterback in the NFL draft, tied with North teammate Dan LeFevour.

To read the rest, click here.

January 24, 2010

2010 Old Spice Ben Roethlisberger Football Camp

Join Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback and two-time Super Bowl winner Ben Roethlisberger for football fundamentals and fun at the 2010 Old Spice Ben Roethlisberger Football Camp.

The camp is open to boys and girls, ages 7 to 14.

Date: Summer, 2010

Location: Mars Area High School - Mars, PA

Each camper will receive:

• Camp t-shirt
• An autographed camp team photo
• 9 hours of expert instruction
• The opportunity to win contests and prizes
• A fun and educational experience guaranteed!

For a limited time only, purchase your camp spot for only $224!

For more information and to sign up to receive the Official Ben Roethlisberger Football Camp E-Newsletter, click here!

To see photos from last year's camp, click here.

January 19-20, 2010 - *See Update Below

"You can throw Ben Roethlisberger in there, too."

From an article today by CBS Sports senior writer Chris Judge entitled, "Rivers still needs title shot to join super elite":

A couple of months ago I was talking to a San Diego radio talk-show host when he asked if there were any quarterback out there I'd rather have than the Chargers' Philip Rivers.

"Is this a trick question?" I asked.

I was assured it was not.

"OK, then, give me Peyton Manning or Tom Brady," I said. "You can throw Ben Roethlisberger in there, too."

And now he knows why.

Manning, Brady and Roethlisberger have won big games. In fact, they have won six Super Bowls, including five of the past six. Rivers not only hasn't won one, he hasn't been to one. And until he does he cannot and will not be included in a dialogue of today's elite quarterbacks.

But let's say it doesn't. That doesn't mean he won't be recognized some day as one of the game's best.

When you're talking about the best of the best of the best in today's NFL, Philip Rivers will always take the chair behind Manning, Brady and Roethlisberger. Sorry, but that's just how it goes.

Look, don't get me wrong. I'd love to have Philip Rivers quarterback my team. The guy is an outstanding quarterback, a solid teammate and someone who is smart with the football. More than that, he's one of the best and most gracious interviews on the planet. But I'd love to have Manning, Brady and Roethlisberger on my team more, and last weekend's loss to the New York Jets underscored why.

Philip Rivers is one of the game's outstanding quarterbacks and maybe ... OK, probably ... one of its top five. But let me ask you this: You have one game to win and one quarterback to choose. So who is it? Manning? Check. Brady? I'll second that. Roethlisberger? Another big 10-4.

Rivers has plenty of time to catch up. He's 29, with a franchise that is so rock solid it won 11 or more games in three of its last four seasons. Plus, he improves every year. But while the gap between him and the upper echelon has narrowed, a gap still remains because Rivers and the Chargers haven't figured out how to make it to a Super Bowl -- and wait 'til next year, folks.

To read the entire article, click here.

*WEDNESDAY UPDATE: Ben opts out of Pro Bowl

From Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh-Post Gazette:

Ben Roethlisberger declined an invitation this week to play in the Pro Bowl because of a right shoulder injury.

Tom Brady backed out of his spot on the AFC roster for the Pro Bowl, which will be held Jan. 31 in Miami, because of various minor injuries.

As the first alternate, Roethlisberger was offered Brady's spot on the roster. However, the Steelers quarterback declined, a club spokesman said, because doctors advised him to get his shoulder "100 percent."

To read Mr. Bouchette's complete report, click here.

January 18, 2010

Big Ben on display at the Pro Football Hall of Fame

Ben's jersey and gloves from his 503-yard game on December 20th were put on display earlier today at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

That game, a win against the Green Bay Packers was Ben's first career 500-yard passing game. He not only broke a Steelers' franchise record, but he became just the 10th quarterback since 1950 to throw for 500 or more yards in a game.

He also became one of only three quarterbacks (Pro Football Hall of Famers Y.A. Tittle in 1962; and Warren Moon in 1990) in NFL history to throw for at least 500-yards and three touchdowns without an interception in a game.

To see photos of the display, click here.

To see other photos on their main site, click here.

*Thank you to Lexi!

January 16-18, 2010 - Winner Update!

2010 Calendar Caption Contest

Can you think of a creative caption for this photo from the 2005 season?

If so, send it to me (bigbennewssite@yahoo.com)!

The caption can be as simple or as detailed as you like. You can include just one quote, or one for everybody in the photo.

The winner will receive a 2010 Ben Roethlisberger wall calendar and will have their caption added to the photo in the site's gallery.

Trish, the site manager for both Brett-Keisel.com and Heath-Miller.com, and Jan, the site manager for TroyPolamaluFans.com, have offered to help me select a winner once again.

The deadline to get your caption ideas in is this Monday, January 18th at 12 noon.

The winning caption and the runners up will be posted right here on the news page later that afternoon.

If you'd like to see a larger version of the photo, click here.

You can see the rest of the album here.

You can check out the wall calendar here.

*Remember, this is a kid-friendly site, captions must be appropriate in order to be considered!

JANUARY 18TH UPDATE: WE HAVE A WINNER!

Congratulations to Sarah Swenson who sent in the winning entry. Sarah not only added captions to include a few others in the photo, but she also poked fun at a certain rival player who "re-named" himself in a similar fashion:

Ben: "Randle! I will NOT be changing my name to 'Siete'!"

Coach (seen in the larger version here): " 'Atta boy, Ben!"

Randle El: "I'm tellin' you, it'll fit on your jersey much better..."

Hines: (muttered under breath) "Not THIS again!"

Our runners-up:

1. "I told you, it's not a girdle: It's a form-fitting, protective, rib wrap that also happens to be slimming!" -- Kelli

2. "What? You're thinking of going to the 'Skins? You'll never be heard from again." -- Nanit

3. "I'm not only taller than you, I'm better-looking, too!" -- Rebecca

Thank you to everyone who sent in entries, and thank you to both Trish and Jan for helping me select a winner!

January 12, 2010

Ben on the cover...

...of the Sports Illustrated 2010 Almanac!

"America's favorite sports almanac, now in its 19th year, is as fact-filled and fun as ever. Packed with stats, standings, and historical data from SPORTS ILLUSTRATED's award-winning staff, this is the essential reference book for every fan."

Ben shares the cover with Albert Pujols, Tiger Woods and Usain Bolt.

The Almanac includes:

-- 2009 baseball playoffs and World Series.

-- 88-page pro football section incudes year-by-year NFL standings back to 1920 as well as game recaps for Super Bowls I to XLIII.

-- Year-in-review calendar revisits the highlights and low points of 2009.

-- Annual results from many professional and amateur sports, including Little League baseball, lacrosse, volleyball, and many more.

-- Year-by-year and 2009 results from NASCAR, IRL, and Formula One.

The Almanac is available now wherever books are sold. To order your copy online from Amazon.com, click here.

You can see a larger version of the cover here.

Also Today:

From the January 10th mailbag of Walter Scott, the Washington Post's long-time Parade Magazine writer:

Q: "Do any NFL quarterbacks still call their own plays? If so, which ones?"

Mr. Scott: "Thanks to helmet microphones, very few do anymore. CBS commentator and former New York Giants great Phil Simms tells us: 'The two that come the closest are the Colts' Peyton Manning and the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger. Roethlisberger probably has called more of his own plays this year than anybody in pro football. But the quarterback, no matter how successful and powerful he is, has to work within the rules. And coaches rule.'"

*Thank you to Tara for sending this!

Quote of the Day:

"When a play breaks down and Ben Roethlisberger looks like he's a calf trying to avoid getting roped, he looks up the field, processes the situation and fires a bullet to Santonio Holmes and 15 minutes later he and the Steelers are standing on a podium accepting the Lombardi Trophy." -- Xtra Point Football, a review of the Jets vs. Chargers game.

January 10, 2010

"Never, Ever Quit"

Jane Hoeppner, the wife of Ben's beloved college football coach, has written a book with Indiana sportswriter Terry Hutchens entitled, "Never, Ever Quit - Surviving and Thriving Amidst Adversity".

This inspirational book not only chronicles the struggles she and her husband faced during his 18-month battle with brain cancer, but her struggles after his passing in 2007, and how she was able to face both head-on by relying on her faith in God.

Below are excerpts from Chapter 7 of the book, posted with permission:

"Play 13"

The 2007 football season is one that Indiana fans will never forget. Needless to say, I'm right there with them. It was an emotion-packed season for the players and coaches alike.

With pre-season camp starting only 6 weeks after Terry died, their focus was exactly where it needed to be. The players were steadfast in their goal to honor their former coach by "Playing 13" (12 regular season games plus a bowl game).

Getting to a bowl game was one of Terry's goals when we arrived at Bloomington. "Strive for perfection, and settle for excellence" was how he described his work ethic.

As for the season itself, everything that year built up to the Old Oaken Bucket game. When IU beat Ball State in a non-conference game the tenth week of the season, we became bowl eligible with six wins. But to really realize the goal to "Play 13" most people felt we needed to beat Purdue in the season ending match up at Memorial Stadium.

Game time finally arrived and it appeared from the opening kickoff that everything was going our way. For most of the first three quarters, we had it our way. We led 24-3 and the atmosphere was festive among Hoosier fans. I remember thinking this was going well, but I've been around this game long enough to not allow myself to feel overconfident.

At the end of the third quarter I realized why I was feeling that way. The momentum of the contest changed very quickly, and Purdue came back and tied it 24-all.

I remember looking at the clock and thinking, "That's more than enough time to do what we need to do."

It couldn't have possibly been a more dramatic finish for an emotion-filled season. (Kicker) Austin Starr, as it turned out, was the man of the hour. I'll hear the voice of legendary IU play-by-play announcer Don Fischer making that call on the IU Radio Network forever, "The snap, the hold, the kick. IT'S GOOD! IT'S GOOD! AND THE HOOSIERS PLAY 13!!".

When I think about the Bucket game, I can't help but think of something our friend (Indiana State Police Sergeant) Curt Durnil told us afterwards. He told me that he was standing on the sidelines at the end of the game with his stomach churning like everybody else's. He said he felt like after all they had been through, something was going to happen and Purdue was going to be able to sneak the game away from us. Then he said he looked to his right and he saw Coach Hep standing there looking out onto the field. He said he could see the left side of Coach's face, and he remembered the whole thing in remarkable detail. He said Coach had on his white IU hat and was wearing his red pullover.

He said he felt like Hep must have known what he was feeling because he lifted his right hand out of the fold it was in, grinned that Hep half-grin, pointed to the field and said, "Watch this."

We were stunned at hearing this, but when he said, "Watch this" we lost it. That phrase means something special in our family. In 2003 at Miami we lost the first game, but went on to win the next 13 in a row.

Late in the season we trailed Kent State, and it was in the closing minutes of the game. The offense was getting ready to take the field and Coach was giving last second instructions. Right then, Ben Roethlisberger walked across Terry's line of view to the field and said, "Watch this."

He then marched them down the field and scored to win the game. Terry loved to tell that story and that phrase became one of our family's favorites. And now for Curt to repeat those words made us all shake our heads and smile and cry. Curt still believes today that he saw what he saw and will never forget that moment he had with Coach Hep.

*Thank you so much to Christy for my copy, and to Mrs. Hoeppner for the lovely inscription and permission to post on the site!

There are so many beautiful chapters in this book, it was hard to find just one to post.

You can purchase your copy from Barnes & Noble, click here.

You can also purchase it from Amazon.com by clicking here.

Mrs. Hoeppner is co-founder of the Indiana Coach Hep Cancer Challenge: a run, walk, bike event that raises money for cancer research.

To learn more about the Challenge, click here.

Have you read Mr. Hutchin's book on Coach Hoeppner (with the Foreword written by Ben)?

The book, "Hep Remembered: Memories of Terry Hoeppner From Those Who Knew Him" can be purchased here and here.

To learn about the Coach Hep Scholarship Fund, click here.

Indiana State Police Sergeant Curt Durnil developed Project PASS (Pro-Active Safety & Security), which provides security for the coaches, team, doctors, athletic directors, and staff of Indiana University.

To learn more, click here.

January 8, 2010

Good Luck to the Thomas Jefferson Jaguars!

As I posted on December 18th, the Jaguars play in the "Big Dog Bowl" tomorrow!

And from a more recent article that appeared in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:

A youth football team from Jefferson Hills is packing up for the ultimate road trip, and members have the unlikely pair of Ben Roethlisberger and rap star Snoop Dogg to thank.

The Thomas Jefferson Youth Football League's Little Jaguars don't have their own practice field, but managed to play well enough this season to score an invitation to the Big Dog Bowl, a championship tournament in California organized by the rap star.

The Steelers' quarterback put up $17,000 in airfare, hotels and other transportation costs to send the team's 24 players and four coaches to Los Angeles for the Jan. 9 game.

In what organizers are billing as the youthful rematch of last year's Pittsburgh Steelers-Arizona Cardinals Super Bowl, the Jaguars are slated to take on the Glendale, Ariz., Bandits.

The Jaguars will be the only East Coast squad competing in the 26-team field. They were invited after going undefeated to win the 2009 championship in the 10-year-old category of the multiconference South Suburban Youth Football League in November. That league covers much of Western Pennsylvania, including Bethel Park, West Mifflin, West Allegheny and Montour.

"Ben came through like a champion for us," said [Team coordinator Dominic] Serapiglia, of Jefferson Hills, whose son Dominic III is on the team. "When athletes do something that's not right, they get put under a microscope. but I think that he's done something so right for these kids that he needs to be put in the spotlight."

To read the entire article, click here.

To read more about the 'Big Dog Bowl', check here.

Quote of the Day:

Coach Tomlin today, when asked if he was surprised that Ben won the team MVP award -

"Not at all. Ben is well-respected in the locker room. He’s a quality quarterback and leader. Guys respect what he's capable of doing and what he does for us, not only inside stadiums but also here at the practice facility and outside of here as well."

January 4, 2010

Vote for Ben...

...for FedEx Air NFL Player of the Week again!

Finalists for the FedEx Air NFL Player of the Week honors for games played on January 3, 2010 are:

1. Ben Roethlisberger - Completed 18 of 27 passes for 220 yards and three touchdowns in the Steelers' 30-24 win over the Miami Dolphins.

2. Jay Culter , Chicago Bears - Completed 22 of 36 passes for 276 yards and four touchdowns in the Bears' 37-23 win over the Detroit Lions.

3. Brett Favre , Minnesota Vikings - Threw four touchdowns, completing 25 of 31 passes for 316 yards, in the Vikings' 44-7 win over the New York Giants.

Ben won the honor in Week 15 (see December 27th news below), let's make sure he wins it in Week 17!

Click here for the NFL.com video highlights of Ben's performance Sunday AND to cast your vote!

*Thanks Trish!

Speaking of Week 15...

From Sports Illustrated's NFL Record-Breaking Moments of 2009 slide-show today:

9. "No player in league history had thrown for over 500 yards and capped it with a game-winning touchdown throw in the fourth quarter of the same game until Big Ben did so against Green Bay in Week 15. Roethlisberger finished with 503 yards."

To check out the rest of SI.com's slide-show, click here.

*Thanks Lexi!

Also Today:

"Favre, Brees, Rivers, Rodgers and Big Ben hit QB triple crown"

From an article in the Los Angeles Times:

The Minnesota Vikings acquired Brett Favre to get them to their first Super Bowl in more than three decades.

He led them to a 12-4 record and the NFC North title and showed he's still one of the top quarterbacks in the game. He was one of five QBs to finish the regular season with at least 4,000 yards passing, 25 TDs passing and a QB rating of at least 100.

Favre was joined by the Saints' Drew Brees, the Chargers' Philip Rivers, the Packers' Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger.

The regular season featured 10 QBs with at least 4,000 yards passing, 12 with at least 25 TDs passing, and five with QB ratings of at least 100. All are records for a single season.

Quote of the Day:

"I felt like we had our moments where we were unstoppable, we had moments we stopped ourselves and moments when the defense stopped us." -- Ben, summing up the 2009 Steelers season.

January 3, 2010 - Game Update

Steelers 30, Dolphins 24

"Ben, you are one tough hombre!"-- CBS color announcer and NFL HOF lineman Dan Dierdorf, remarking on Ben's decision to stay in the game after injuring his shoulder in the fourth quarter.

Ben finished 18-of-27 for 220 yards, and 3 TDs in a 30-24 win over the Dolphins, raising the Steelers' record to 9-7. However, they were eliminated from the playoff race after the Baltimore Ravens beat the Oakland Raiders later in the afternoon.

"I'd rather we go out with a win than a loss," said Ben after the game.

Rashard Mendenhall and Willie Parker combined for 185 yards on the ground. Heath Miller had 5 catches for 56 yards, Mike Wallace had 2 catches for 64 yards, and Santonio Holmes had 1 catch for 5 yards.

"We didn't do what we were supposed to do and take care of our business," Santonio Holmes said. "Therefore we have to suffer with what happens."

Ben cleared 4,000 yards for the first time in his career this season (4,328 yards), and his 26 touchdowns are the second most in his career.

Plenty of Steelers fans stayed with their team until the end. There was black and gold throughout the stadium, and the visiting team provided lots to cheer about.

But the crowd grew silent when Dolphins quarterback Pat White, who came in for the injured Chad Henne, was carted off the field with a head injury following a helmet-to-helmet collision with Ike Taylor. White did move his arms and legs before leaving the field after an eight-minute delay, and was taken to a hospital for examination.

White landed flat on his stomach and was lying still following the collision near the Steelers sideline prompting Coach Tomlin and several Steelers players to immediately begin waving for help.

Air rescue was initally called, but canceled. He was transported by ground to Broward General Hospital and initial reports are that he suffered a concussion.

A group of Steelers players knelt together in prayer as trainers and paramedics readied White for transport off the field.

"It's a scary, scary thing," said Ben, who stood nearby with Dolphins players while White was being attended to. "I started to get emotional thinking about it. I went to him and told him to keep his head up and everything will be OK."

Ben suffered an injury of his own in the fourth quarter, although not nearly as serious, as he reached for the football on the ground during a fumble. It appeared that the Dolphins' Joey Porter fell on and then rolled over his shoulder during the frenzy to take possession of the ball. He did not leave the game, but was in obvious pain on the next offensive series in which he threw just three short passes.

For now, there is no news from the team on the extent of his injury.

As for the season, Coach Tomlin was proud of how his team rallied back at the end, "There are a lot of teams that are capable of going 6-10 facing the circumstances this group was faced with," he said during his post-game press conference. "They knuckled down, they hung together. They did the best of their ability to fix it. We won the last three ball games and gave ourselves a chance."

To see video highlights of Ben's performance, click here.

To see game photos, click here.

January 3, 2010

"A steely resolve" and that pump fake...

From an article in the Sun-Sentinel News by Mike Berardino:

Big Ben doesn't just give an obligatory fake to help his receivers come open. He wraps his long fingers around the laces and whips his arm forward at normal speed until somehow, at the very last second, he recoils and reloads.

"You would think the ball was going to come out," Dolphins safety Tyrone Culver says. "He's really good at it. It's definitely a weapon when it comes to playing deep."

Think of some of Roethlisberger's most famous game-winning throws, whether it be the one to Santonio Holmes in the corner of the end zone to win the last Super Bowl or the one to rookie Mike Wallace that beat Green Bay two weeks ago.

Odds are Big Ben gave one of his patented pump fakes before releasing the ball.

Thanks to the pump fake – along with his physical size (6 feet 5 and 241 pounds) and durability – Roethlisberger is able to keep plays alive long enough to put extreme pressure on opposing secondaries.

"I don't know if there's anybody better at the pump fake or pulling the ball down and extending the play," Dolphins defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni says. "The thing that's different to me, with a lot of quarterbacks there's a clock that's in their head. I don't think this guy's got a clock in his head."

This is meant as a compliment.

"Six seconds will go by, and he's not looking to get rid of the ball," Pasqualoni says. "He's looking to extend the play and to make a play for as long as he can. The pump fake is with it. Sometimes he looks, he says, 'Ah, not quite,' he pulls it back down and he starts to move around again to buy more time."

Roethlisberger has been sacked a league-high 47 times this year, but those blows haven't given him happy feet or tempted him to shelve the pump fake as one of his leading weapons.

"He's got a steely resolve," Steelers coach Mike Tomlin says. "He's a competitor. He doesn't mind standing in there and taking calculated risks. It's part of his makeup."

The Dolphins like to mix things up enough on defense that they have been warned all week not to let Big Ben's pump fake get the best of them.

To read the entire article, click here.

December 31, 2009 / January 1, 2010 - Happy New Year!

Big Ben is Steelers MVP

Ben has been chosen as the Pittsburgh Steelers' Most Valuable Player by his teammates for the first time in his six-season career.

After practice Thursday afternoon with his team huddled around him, coach Mike Tomlin announced that their quarterback had won the honor after a morning vote of the players.

"This means more to me than any other award. It tops them all," Ben said during his short press conference after the award was announced. "It was touching. I had to hold back some emotions when coach said it."

He has thrown for a team-record 4,108 yards with a game remaining Sunday at Miami, has 23 touchdown passes, 12 interceptions and a 98.9 passer rating this season!

Ben also set several other team passing records: single-season completions (319), passing yards in a single game (503), and five 300-yard passing games in a season.

"Ben's had a great year," tight end Heath Miller said. "I don't know what all his statistics are. But it has to be one of the best seasons in franchise history. So that's something Ben should be proud of. I think his value to this team is pretty apparent."

Congratulations to Ben!

Quotes of the Day:

"The only surprising thing about Ben Roethlisberger earning the Steelers MVP award today is that it is the quarterback's first such honor." -- Ed Bouchette, from his article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette this afternoon.

"That was my first start and how nervous and literally scared I was sitting in that locker room, feeling like I was going to throw up because I just didn't know what to do." -- Ben, reminiscing on his first start in 2004 against the Miami Dolphins as he prepares to return this Sunday (also from Mr. Bouchette's article).

Check out the article by Mike Bires on Ben's award at the Beaver County Times.

December 30, 2009

Pro Bowl Update

Ben selected as first alternate...

From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ed Bouchette this afternoon:

Roethlisberger along with linebacker LaMarr Woodley and tight end Heath Miller all were selected as first alternates at their positions for the AFC team in the Jan. 31 game in Miami.

Each would join the squad if one player at their positions bows out and since no player from the AFC team in the Super Bowl will play in the Pro Bowl, there is a good possibility one or all could join teammates James Harrison and Casey Hampton who have been named to the all-star squad.

To read Mr. Bouchette's complete report, click here.

To see the Pro Bowl rosters, click here.

Also Today:

Ben's conference call to the Miami press...

On the use of the pump fake: "You have to use it to your advantage to get [defensive backs] or linebackers to bite on something. But sometimes I am actually going to throw it, and at the last minute I decide to hold onto the ball."

On whether the success with the pump fake is due to his "really" large hands: "I do have big hands. Obviously they aren't the biggest in the NFL or anything like that. I have big hands and [good] hand strength from playing baseball, basketball, fishing and all that stuff."

On how he would describe the Steelers' season: "[It's] been a little bit of a roller coaster, ups and downs. Seems like when our offense was playing good, our defense wasn't, and when our defense was playing good, our offense wasn’t - .and [we] just couldn't put it all together."

On playing well against the better teams in the league, and yet poorly against some of the lesser teams: "I guess it is true, any given Sunday. It is hard for me, I don't like to say that we played bad and we lost the game because that takes away from the other team, but when you don't play your best football it shows."

On Mike Wallace's performance: "He has had a great year. As a rookie, you never know what to expect but he is a good, hard worker. He wants to be the best, and just like a kid who tries and corrects his errors."

On whether he believes the idea of the "Super Bowl hangover": "I don't think so. People have asked me that many times and talked about it before the season. I don't believe in that, I don't think this team had that."

On the team's playoff chances: "I have no clue. I am the wrong guy to ask about that. We've got to try win this Sunday. None of it really matters if we don't win Sunday, so that is my singular focus."

On his observations of the Dolphins defense: "Things I am used to seeing early in my career with Joey [Porter]. Joey making plays...and Jason Taylor. Obviously the two young quarterbacks are playing phenomenal football. It is a very good defense, it is complicated. You have to try and watch enough film. And today, going through our walk through...it is going to be an interesting week of practice."

On whether they miss Joey Porter: "Yea, Joey is a great football player. I am a better player because of Joey Porter. It was a pleasure to have him as a teammate and I always said when he was here that I never wanted to go against him. I have had to a couple of times now and it's not fun because he is such a great football player.

"Joey is a guy on defense, well not as just a player but as a leader too. Being a vocal guy, I just watch and observe him. I don’t get into some of the loud bantering that he does but just how to talk to guys and get guys motivated and fired up. And on the football field Joey was always a guy that was constantly right there, always in the backfield, always making plays and making me play with my legs... throwing the ball quicker than I have had to, things that disruptive defensive guys do."

On how long it took him to get comfortable throwing the touch pass: "I feel like I have always been able to do it. I don't think that you can teach a touch pass. You either have it or you don't. I could be completely wrong but that is my opinion on it.

"My dad was a quarterback, I always was the quarterback, I just never got a chance to play it."

On Rashard Mendenhall's performance this season: "He has played great. Not playing the first couple of games. He's done a great job of developing not just as a runner, but picking up blitzes, doing the intangibles you like in an all-around back, and I think he has become a great one."

On playing for Coach Tomlin: "He is a players' coach. He is fun, we like playing for him. He listens to the players and [their] advice. It doesn't mean he is always going to do it, but you feel like you can go talk to him about anything."

*Thanks Trish!

Quote of the Day:

"Got robbed: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger surpassed 4,000 yards for the first time in his NFL career. But it was not enough to get a Pro Bowl nod." -- ESPN's Bill Williamson, from his blog this morning.

December 29, 2009 - Evening Update (*see below)

SI's "The Decade in Sports"...

From Peter King's list of highlights at SI.com:

BEST PLAYOFF GAME (NON-SUPER BOWL):

Steelers 21, Colts 18; 2005 AFC Divisional Game

Strangest game of the decade, too. The Colts, once 13-0 and a near-lock to get to the Super Bowl, instead didn't even win a playoff game. But they certainly were in position to do it.

With a minute to go, Pittsburgh led 21-18 and was going for the kill shot. Sure-handed Jerome Bettis whammed into the middle of the Indy line for the insurance touchdown. Bam! The ball popped out on a hit by linebacker Gary Brackett. Living rooms all over America exploded. Nick Harper picked up the ball -- the same Nick Harper who'd been stabbed in the knee in a domestic dispute a day earlier -- and instead of waiting for a blocker to help, he sprinted up the middle of the field as Ben Roethlisberger, backpedaling, tried to get into position for a game-saving tackle. And Big Ben got a paw on Harper, forcing him into a stumbling fall at the Colts' 42. Still time. Plenty of time. Manning got the Colts into field-goal range to tie and send it to overtime, but Vanderjagt was wide right from 46 yards. Steelers exhale. Steelers win.

BEST SUPER BOWL:

Steelers 27, Cardinals 23; XLIII

The Steelers led 20-7 with 10 minutes left, and the sixth Super Bowl in Pittsburgh's glorious history was a foregone conclusion ... or was it? The Steelers' defense let the suddenly no-huddling Cardinals drive the length of the field twice in an eight-minute span, and, adding a safety, Arizona took a 23-20 led with 2:30 to play. A penalty on first down left the Steelers with first-and-20 at their 12-yard line. Now for the corny line about Ben Roethlisberger etching his name into Steelers lore forever.

Big Ben drove the Steelers 88 yards, the final six coming on a you-had-to-see-it-to-believe-it catch and toe drag in the corner of the end zone by Santonio Holmes. Now, Giants fans will go crazy at me for picking this as the best game, but it had the best defensive play ever (James Harrison's 100-yard interception return for a touchdown) and, along with Joe Montana's drive to beat the Bengals a generation earlier, the best winning touchdown and winning catch.

BEST COORDINATOR:

Dick LeBeau, Bills and Steelers

With the Bills in 2003, he parachuted in and built the league's No. 2 defense. (Buffalo shut out the Pats in the season opener.) Then he went to Pittsburgh, refined his fire-zone concepts (linemen dropping in coverage, back-seven players rushing) with solid talent, and in three of the five years that followed, he had the top defense. What's more, his players borderline-worship him. Five current and former Steelers defenders have pushed me to select LeBeau for the Hall of Fame when his candidacy comes up this year.

* Dick LeBeau, Hines Ward and Aaron Smith also made Mr. King's Team of the Decade, to see the full list click here.

To read Peter King's entire list of picks for "The Decade in Sports" click here.

Reminder:

The 2010 Pro Bowl Selection Show is this evening on NFL Network.

The show airs at 7:00 p.m. ET. You can also check in at NFL.com for the player selections.

Host Rich Eisen, alongside seven-time Pro Bowlers Marshall Faulk and Warren Sapp announce the 86 selections. The 2010 Pro Bowl will be played Sunday, January 31 at Dolphin Stadium in South Florida.

For more info, click here.

*PRO BOWL UPDATE: Ben was NOT selected for the 2010 Pro Bowl despite ranking fourth in the conference with a 98.9 passer rating and fifth in passing yards with 4,108 - a Steelers record. He is only the 10th player in NFL history to throw for more than 500-yards in a game and only the third quarterback in NFL history (Pro Football Hall of Famers Y.A. Tittle and Warren Moon) to throw for at least 500 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in a game!

To see the rosters, click here.

Quote of the Day:

"Ben does a great job of getting out of your hands. That's the only thing we have to fix. Other than that, we did a great job as a defensive line."-- Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata, from today's Ravens Notebook.

December 27, 2009

Steelers 23, Ravens 20

The reigning Super Bowl champs kept their play-off hopes alive for another week with a tense victory over the Baltimore Ravens at Heinz Field today.

"It's been do or die for us for a while, fighting to the last minute. We're like the cardiac kids," said Ben after the game. "It doesn't matter how you win, as long as you win."

Ben completed 17-of-33 for 259 yards, one touchdown and one interception, Rashard Mendenhall ran for a score, and Santonio Holmes scored once on five catches for 86 yards for the Steelers (8-7), who have won two straight.

Jeff Reed was 3-for-3 on field goal attempts.

Joe Flacco found Todd Heap for two touchdowns, but the Ravens killed themselves with penalties totalling 113 yards hindering their chances.

Once again, the Steelers found a way to win.

"All I know, we don't have a chance unless we win," defensive end Brett Keisel said. "We can't think about what can happen or who [else] needs to win, all we need to think about is winning ourselves, because if we don't do that none of it is possible.”

Game Stats:

- Ben became the first Steelers QB in franchise history to eclipse 4,000 passing yards (4,108).

- Santonio Holmes has a 8 receiving TDs in his last 7 games vs. Baltimore.

- Rashard Mendenhall went over 1,000 rushing yards on the season in the game.

- The Ravens have lost 9 of their last 10 games in Pittsburgh.

Ben spoke to the individual achievements, "It's awesome to have the 1,000-yard rusher, and the 2,000-yard receivers, for Heath [Miller] to catch more balls than any tight end - all those things are awesome. For me, I don't really care about the individual things. It's an honor, but I think what it does, it speaks volumes about this offense and how dynamic and potent it is. That's why I sit there and laugh when people talk about Bruce Arians and his offense. We have one of the most dynamic offenses in the league. I think it's something that people should lay off him about now."

The Steelers, who finished the season with a 6-2 home mark, play at Miami next Sunday.

To check out Ben's post-game interview, click here.

To check out Coach Tomlin's post-game press conference, click here.

To see game photos, click here.

And:

Congratulations to Ben...

He won the FedEx Air NFL Player of the Week for last week!

Ben completed 29 of 46 passes for 503 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winning score as time expired, in the Steelers' 37-36 win over the Green Bay Packers.

Running back Jerome Harrison of the Cleveland Browns won the FedEx Ground NFL Player of the Week. rushed 34 times for 286 yards, the third-most rushing yards in a single game in NFL history, and had three touchdowns in the Browns' 41-34 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

Ben and Jerome Harrison were selected from among six finalists in Air and Ground categories. The other FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week finalists were quarterbacks Joe Flacco of the Baltimore Ravens and Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts and running backs Jamaal Charles of the Kansas City Chiefs and Jonathan Stewart of the Carolina Panthers.

*Thank you to everyone who placed votes for Big Ben!

Quote of the Day:

"You're trying to get me to put some billboard material up, huh? You guys are not going to get me on that." -- Ben, when asked by a Baltimore Sun sports writer (prior to the game) whether the Steelers have a mental edge over the Ravens at Heinz Field.

Whine of the Day:

"For all the things Dick Enberg and Dan Fouts did well in their CBS telecast of Sunday's game between the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers, I can't get past Enberg repeatedly referring to Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger as 'Big Ben.' I stopped counting after the tenth time he said 'Big Ben' instead of Roethlisberger in the first half, and I would have turned the sound off right then, If I didn't have to review the telecast." -- Baltimore Sun critic David Zurawik in his blog today.

December 25, 2009 - Merry Christmas!

"Steel City Dreams"

A Super Bowl XLIII poem written by long-time Steelers fan (and recent Photo Caption Contest winner) Fred Carrow, from the original "Twas the Night Before Christmas" by Clement Clarke Moore (1822):

Twas the night before the game, when all through the house,

Not a creature was stirring, except for his mouse.

The posters were hung, on his walls with great care,

In hopes that Big Ben, soon would be there.

The child was nestled, all snug in his bed,

As visions of touchdowns, danced in his head.

Terrible towel for his hand, bedpost for his cap,

He and his dog, settled down for their nap.

When up on his desk, arose such a clatter,

Should he awaken, the players would scatter.

From posters and photos, the players came forth,

Rehearsing the game, this team from the North.

With halftime approaching, the cardinals were poised,

To score a touchdown, and end all this noise.

The call was to blitz, but deep in his mind,

James saw this before, and dropped in behind.

A slant to Fitzgerald, could never miscue,

Be sure to account, for this guy, ninety-two.

He slyly slipped back, and made a quick slash,

Intercepting the ball, for a one hundred yard dash.

Now Larry was game, and would never give up,

He’d run down this thief, who drank from their cup.

He could never get near, with this team that surrounds,

In order to catch him, he’d sneak out of bounds.

With a heart from the Burgh, but his apparel now red,

A pass up the middle, and the birds were ahead.

Ten peeked at the clock, its time to be great,

We’ll give it our best, and seal our own fate.

One final drive, to take back the lead,

Get Santonio the ball, and we'd surely succeed.

To the corner he ran, to the ball he did stretch,

Two toes in the zone, for the game winning catch.

He ‘woke the next morning, his visions had waned,

Twas merely a dream, yet the ticket remained?

And later that evening, his dreams they proved right,

"Seasons beatings to all and to all a good-night."

Super Bowl XLIII -- Pittsburgh 27, Arizona 23

The print featured above is also Mr. Carrow's work and was the inspiration for the poem. It can be purchased on his site. The poem accompanies each "Steel City Dreams" print purchased. To view all of his Steelers artwork, click here.

*Thank you to Mr. Carrow!

December 24, 2009 - Christmas Eve

Ben: "This team is changing on offense, we’re not a run-first team anymore."

Ben spoke to reporters yesterday before practicing in a No. 14 jersey with the name "Anderson" across the shoulders. He wore the jersey to pay tribute to his "idol" - quarterbacks coach Ken Anderson, who played for the Bengals back in the '70's.

The Steelers will wear their throwback uniforms this Sunday at Heinz Field when they face the Baltimore Ravens.

"It's a throwback game...so a couple of us decided to go with the mustaches and the '70s, '80s hair," Ben said, adding that they were trying to keep it fun and light because, "It's Christmas!".

He may have looked like a player from the past, but his focus was on the future of the Steelers:

"It's probably hard for people to wrap their heads and their fingers around, but this offense is changing," Ben said. "This team is changing on offense. It's not a run-it-first team anymore. And that's not a bad thing, it really isn't. We've got two 1,000-yard receivers. We'll have a 1,000-yard rusher. It's a pretty fun thing."

As for last Sunday's game:

"We came out and we threw the ball a bunch early. First couple of plays were passes, and I think that threw everybody for a loop. Because everybody assumed we were going to come out and run the ball, pound it...I've said that a thousand times - The league evolves. You have to keep up with the Colts and the Saints, teams like that. Because if you don't, you're going to be left behind."

You can check out video of Ben's interview here.

And:

From Mike Bires column in the Beaver County Times:

Individually, Roethlisberger is ninth in the league in passing yards (3,849), sixth in passer rating (100.6), fifth in completion percentage (67.7) and third in average yards per pass (8.6).

Besides becoming only the 10th player in NFL history to throw for more than 500 yards in a game, Roethlisberger set a Steelers’ record Sunday for most passing yards in a season. He surpassed Terry Bradshaw’ previous high of 3,724 in 1979.

Roethlisberger might set the team record for most passes in a season. He needs 74 attempts in the last two games to surpass Tommy Maddox (519) in 2003.

"It was just a classic," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said of Roethlisberger's performance against the Packers. "Ben Roethlisberger is an elite, premier quarterback in this league and he’s shown that many times before."

That's why the Steelers are a pass-first football team.

To read Mr. Bires full column, click here.

December 22-23, 2009

Cast your vote...

For Ben - FedEx Air NFL Player of the Week!

Finalists for the FedEx Air NFL Player of the Week honors for games played on Dec. 17th-21st are:

1. Ben Roethlisberger - completed 29 of 46 passes for 503 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winning score as time expired, in the Steelers' 37-36 win over the Green Bay Packers.

2. Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts - threw for 308 yards and four touchdowns in the Colts' 35-31 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on NFL Network’s Thursday Night Football.

3. Joe Flacco, Baltimore Ravens - completed 21 of 29 passes for 234 yards and four touchdowns in the Ravens' 31-7 rout of the Chicago Bears.

Click here for the NFL.com video highlights of Ben's performance Sunday night AND to cast your vote!

Offensive Player of the Week!

According to Steelers.com, Ben won AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors for his performance Sunday against the Green Bay Packers...

but Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel summed up Ben's afternoon the best:

"On a night when he was sacked five times, Roethlisberger took the Steelers on scoring drives of 60, 72, 80, 55, 47, 44 and 86 yards, the final a 2-minute, 6-second odyssey that ended up with him throwing a 19-yard game-tying touchdown to receiver Mike Wallace as time expired. Time and again, Roethlisberger squirmed out of pressure and reset outside the pocket, whipping balls downfield to receivers who had worked themselves open. When it was over, he had completed 29 of 46 passes for a Steelers franchise record 503 yards and three touchdowns."

The honor is the first this season, but marks the fifth time in his career that he has won.

Speaking of Voting...

Yesterday was the final day for voting for the 2010 Pro Bowl.

According to NFL.com, there was a record 89.87 million votes cast.

The AFC and NFC All-Star squads are based on the consensus votes of fans, players and coaches. Each group's vote counts one-third towards determining the 43-man rosters that represent the American Football Conference and National Football Conference in the Pro Bowl. NFL players and coaches will cast their votes on Dec. 22-23.

The teams will be announced on Tuesday, December 29 on a special NFL Total Access 2010 Pro Bowl Selection Show on NFL Network.

Stay tuned!

Quote of the Day:

"I don't know if we can even emphasize it anymore than we ever have. Pressure on the quarterback is always critical. It was really important last week, and I think we did a decent job of getting to [the Chicago Bears' Jay] Cutler.

"But with Ben Roethlisberger – he's a guy who handles pressure probably better than any quarterback in the league. He can make pressure miss, he can shrug pressure off, he can throw with four guys draped on him, and throw accurately. He can scramble out of the pocket. So, it just can’t be pressure. It's got to be very accurate pressure. It's got to be disciplined rush lanes, and we've got to tackle, not just him, [but] when the ball gets thrown out, their receivers do a great job of running after the catch. They catch and run, and they get up the field fast. So, we've got to be strong tacklers, treat the short passing game as the run game and make sure we tackle." -- Ravens coach John Harbaugh, from an article in today's edition of the Baltimore Sun.

December 21, 2009

"Look Kids...Big Ben!"

"It was Big Ben doing a good job of getting out of the pocket and making big plays for his teammates. Packers cornerback Tramon Williams said.It's tough out here to cover a receiver. He has a chance to run around, it's tough. He made plays for his teammates. He's a strong guy with a will to win. No matter how ugly it looks, it gets the job done." -- Packers cornerback Tramon Williams to reporters last night.

A collection of quotes about last night's game:

From Tom Silverstein, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

"Player of the Game: Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger practically willed his team to victory. On a night when he was sacked five times, Roethlisberger took the Steelers on scoring drives of 60, 72, 80, 55, 47, 44 and 86 yards, the final a 2-minute, 6-second odyssey that ended up with him throwing a 19-yard game-tying touchdown to receiver Mike Wallace as time expired. Time and again, Roethlisberger squirmed out of pressure and reset outside the pocket, whipping balls downfield to receivers who had worked themselves open. When it was over, he had completed 29 of 46 passes for a Steelers franchise record 503 yards and three touchdowns."

From Bucky Brooks, NFL Analyst, NFL.com:

"Roethlisberger joins Pro Football Hall of Famers Y.A. Tittle (1962) and Warren Moon (1990) as the only quarterbacks in NFL history to throw for at least 500 yards and three touchdowns without an interception in a game."

From the Green Bay Press Gazette:

"Roethlisberger's 503 yards passing was the most the Packers have allowed any quarterback in team history. His passer rating of 121.9 points was the highest the Packers have allowed anyone this season other than Minnesota'a Brett Favre. The Packers were unable to stay with the Steelers' receivers, most notably Hines Ward (seven catches) and tight end Heath Miller (seven catches), once Roethlisberger broke containment."

From Don Banks, NFL Analyst, Sports Illustrated:

"I thought I was watching Ben Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes in the last seconds of February's Super Bowl all over again early Sunday evening, but it wasn't an instant replay. Just eerily close. It was Roethlisberger to rookie receiver Mike Wallace in the front left corner of the end zone this time, from 19 yards as time expired. But the result was the same: A breathtaking Pittsburgh comeback victory, 37-36 over Green Bay (9-5)."

From J.J. Cooper, NFL Fanhouse:

"Supposedly two of the NFL's best defenses faced off in Pittsburgh Sunday night. No one who watched the Steelers 37-36 last-second win will believe that, but it was clearly a face-off of two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.

"Aaron Rodgers threw for 388 yards and three touchdowns for Green Bay. It was the second-best passing performance of the day--but it was 115 fewer yards than Ben Roethlisberger threw for Sunday night.

"It's also a reminder that for all of the Steelers' problems on defense and special teams, Roethlisberger is having one of the best seasons in team history."

From Ron Cook, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:

"In the 90-year history of the NFL, only nine quarterbacks have passed for more yards in one game than the 503 that the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger hung on the Green Bay Packers yesterday. Two were journeymen -- Vince Ferragamo and Elvis Grbac. Three were or are very good players -- Boomer Esiason, Phil Simms and Drew Brees. Four were absolute legends -- Norm Van Brocklin, Warren Moon, Dan Marino and Y.A. Tittle.

"I'm thinking Roethlisberger will be among the legends before he is done.

"We're so lucky here. Each week, we get to watch one of the game's all-time greats. Each week, we know the Steelers are never out of a game because of him."

Quick Quotes:

"I knew No. 7 was hot. He was unbelievable. The throw to Heath on the corner route, what a throw that was. That was vintage Ben all the way -- trusting his guy and putting it where he can catch it." -- Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians

"He's Big Ben. He's going to make plays; that's what he does!" -- Packers cornerback Jarrett Bush

"The way the game ended was incredible, especially that last play. It was obviously pretty reminiscent of the Super Bowl." -- Steelers center Justin Hartwig

"Ben threw a perfect ball. I can't tell you that enough. You can't put the ball in a better spot than he put that one." -- Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace

"I've been in this league a long time, and to tell you the truth, I don’t know if I've ever been in game like that. That was an awesome game." -- Steelers linebacker James Farrior

"We don't quit. That's kind of a Pittsburgh mentality. We don't quit no matter what." -- Ben, during his postgame press conference.

And the Quote of the Weekend:

"Roethlisberger looked gunshy last week in Cleveland, taking sack after sack and refusing to get the ball to his hot read. Green Bay's defense is a lot better than Cleveland's and Roethlisberger could struggle again this week. Bench him unless you don't have a better option." -- Dale Lolley, giving Fantasy Football advice on Saturday.

Title quote borrowed from the movie, "European Vacation" (IMDB).

December 20, 2009

First career 500-yard game for Big Ben in win against Packers

"Ben Roethlisberger is having himself an outstanding game today!" -- Game announcer and former NFL quarterback Troy Aikman, during the second half of the game.

Not only did Ben lead the Steelers on a game-winning drive, capped by a 19-yard pass to Mike Wallace as time expired for the 37-36 win, he became just the 10th quarterback since 1950 to throw for 500 or more yards in a game.

The last NFL quarterback to throw for 500-plus yards was Drew Brees in Week 11 of the 2006 season, when he passed for 510 in a 31-16 loss to the Bengals.

He completed 29 of 46 passes for 503 yards and three touchdowns, with no interceptions.

"It's amazing how one play can change everything," Ben said during his post-game press conference. "If that last play's incomplete, everyone's down and we probably have the worst Christmas ever. But because that play was a touchdown, it’s a different ball game."

Hines Ward had seven catches for 126 yards.

Heath Miller had a career day, catching seven passes for 118 yards and Mike Wallace made the most out of his two catches - both went for touchdowns, including the game winner.

Rashard Mendenhall earned 38 yards on the ground via 11 carries. He found the end zone twice on the day, once on the ground and once through the air.

"It's about pride," said Ben right after the game. "It's about coming out and showing people we're the Pittsburgh Steelers and we fight to the end no matter what."

To see video of "Ben highlights" from the game, click here and here.

To see video of the post-game press conference, click here.

To see game photos, click here.

*All stats from NFL.com.

Check back tomorrow for more notes & quotes from the game!

December 18, 2009

Heading to L.A...

...thanks to Big Ben!

From KDKA today:

The Thomas Jefferson Jaguars are headed to Los Angeles for Snoop Dogg's "Big Dog Bowl" thanks to sponsor Ben Roethlisberger.

He is picking up the entire tab for the young football team and their four coaches to make the trip in January.

In California, the Jaguars will play in rapper Snoop Dogg's "Big Dog Bowl."

The Jaguars went 11 and 0 this year, and have lost only one regular season game in the past three seasons.

This year, the Jaguars are the South Suburban Youth Football League champions.

Jaguars head coach Jim Nassida said he couldn't be more grateful to Big Ben for helping the team.

The "Big Dog Bowl" will be played January 9th.

To read the entire article, click here.

To watch the video, click here.

Also:

Ben, on the untimely passing of Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry yesterday, from KDKA:

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was seriously injured in a traffic accident several years ago. Henry's death brought back many of those painful memories.

"It's a scary thing. I don't know what it would be like to lose a teammate, and I don't know what it would be like if one of these teammates lost me for something like that," he said. "So, it's a tough thing. My heart goes out to the family and his teammates."

December 16, 2009

2010 Pro Bowl Update

From ESPN.com's James Walker this afternoon:

Pro Bowl standings for the Pittsburgh Steelers, by position -

SS Troy Polamalu - first place (347,418 votes)

OL James Harrison - first place (225,186 votes)

LB James Farrior - second place (135,311 votes)

DT Casey Hampton - second place (215,587 votes)

LG Chris Kemoeatu - second place (156,070 votes)

C Justin Hartwig - second place (141,907 votes)

P Daniel Sepulveda - second place (78,094 votes)

QB Ben Roethlisberger - third place (459,469 votes)

FS Ryan Clark - third place (71,132 votes)

TE Heath Miller - third place (208,600 votes)

FB Carey Davis - fourth place (70,230 votes)

PK Jeff Reed - fourth place (63,538 votes)

CB Ike Taylor - fifth place (100,066 votes)

DE Brett Keisel - fifth place (99,994 votes)

KR Stefan Logan - fifth place (44,231 votes)

Balloting for the 2010 Pro Bowl will conclude on Monday, December 21 following the conclusion of Monday Night Football (New York Giants at Washington Redskins, ESPN, 8:30 p.m. ET). The teams will be announced at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 29 on a special NFL Total Access 2010 Pro Bowl Selection Show on NFL Network.

The 2010 Pro Bowl will be played on Sunday, January 31, 2010 and televised live on ESPN at 7:20 p.m. ET from Dolphin Stadium in South Florida, also the site of Super Bowl XLIV a week later on Sunday, February 7th.

To cast your votes, click here.

Also Today:

Ben shows support for the NFL's stricter concussion policies -

From an article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution:

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger supports the NFL's stricter policies on allowing players back on the field after sustaining head injuries. But will players comply?

Speaking to reporters in Green Bay on a conference call Wednesday, Roethlisberger said he believed league officials have players' best interests in mind. But Roethlisberger suspects players won't be "completely honest" about injuries because they want to keep playing.

"All of us want to be fathers and husbands someday. In that sense, I think it's good," Roethlisberger said. "I think it does run the risk that we are tough guys, we want to play through things and I think guys will not be completely honest, for fear that they can't get back in the game. I think it's kind of a double-edged sword."

Ben talks Aaron Rodgers...

From an article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune today:

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has developed a friendship with Rodgers, and the two exchange occasional text messages.

"He's just playing unbelievable football," Roethlisberger said. "I'm really happy to watch him, and proud to call him a friend and watch him play. He's doing some amazing things."

To read the entire article, click here.

And to reporters in Green Bay about the Steelers' struggles and Sunday's game...

From an article posted on the Packers Official site:

"We're just as stunned," Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said. "We feel we have a good group, good leaders, and you know what, sometimes the ball doesn't bounce your way, you're not playing your best football. Whatever it is, it just seems to be happening to us."

Green Bay defensive coordinator Dom Capers originated his version of the 3-4 in Pittsburgh when he held the same post there from 1992-94, and that system has remained the foundation of Pittsburgh's defense since, including now under coordinator Dick LeBeau.

So Roethlisberger has faced this style of 3-4 in all six of his NFL training camps and throughout his career, having played at least six games every year in the 3-4 heavy AFC North.

"That helps, to go against Coach LeBeau and his defenses every day," Roethlisberger said. "But it's different when you're going against it in practice and when you have 35 seconds (on the play clock) to try and decipher things. It definitely is tough, but I think it will help that we've seen some of the stuff."

To read the entire article, click here.

December 15, 2009

Serenaded by the Steelers and more...

From Madeline Robinson, Wish Coordinator at Kids Wish Network:

A teen with a life-threatening illness had her wish to meet the Pittsburgh Steelers granted through Kids Wish Network and the generosity of the Steelers.

At 6-years-old, Cynthia was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Because of this, she has endured multiple traumatic surgeries and dealt with both respiratory and kidney failures. Cynthia is on a strict daily medication regimen and must visit her doctor frequently.

Through another wish granting organization, Cindy's mother Darlene was referred to national children's charity Kids Wish Network. Darlene called the charity and told them about her daughter. They agreed that Cindy more than deserved a wish.

Kids Wish Network Wish Coordinator Vanessa talked to Cindy about her favorite things and the teen went on and on about how much of a Pittsburgh Steelers fan she was; it came as no surprise to Vanessa that when she asked Cindy what she wanted for her wish, Cindy said she wanted to meet her favorite NFL team on their home turf.

With the help of Wish Funding Specialist Donna and some outstanding local sponsors, Vanessa set out to organize a wish worthy of the Steelers’ number one teen fan.

"It was all just awesome," said Cindy of her wish. "Vanessa did an awesome job!"

In addition to organizing accommodations, a trip to the spa and dinners for Cindy and her family in Pittsburgh, Vanessa worked closely with the Pittsburgh Steelers to arrange a weekend that Cindy would never forget: the first day in Pittsburgh, Cindy was escorted to Steelers’ practice field where she watched the team run plays and then had the chance to meet the whole team followed by a personal tour of the Steelers' facilities; the next day, Cindy and her family got to experience the thrill of attending a game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders.

"It was all so great! [It was] amazing!" said Cindy. "I thought I'd only meet one player and I was OK with that, but I met everyone! They all came up after [practice] and someone said "Merry Christmas" to me, and then they all burst into song! I was in shock!"

In addition to getting serenaded by the entire team, Cindy was also given an official Steelers football that every team member signed for her, including her favorite players: Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward and Troy Polamalu.

Watching the game the next day was simply an amazing experience for the teen, especially after having watched the team practice the day before.

"Everything was amazing. It wasn’t like it was just one thing," said Cindy of her wish. "You know, like [they'd] send you to the game and then home and that's it. There were so many thing...it was all wonderful."

Now that she's home, Cindy has likened her wish experience to being treated like a princess and then having to get back to the rigors of everyday normal life.

"Thank you so much, everyone. It was great," said Cindy.

*Story and photo used with permission, Madeline Robinson, Kids Wish Network!

What is the Kids Wish Network?

Kids Wish Network is a nationally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children. Kids Wish Network is especially proud of their "Guardian Angel Fund", which uses 100% of its contributions to support the wish granting program.

Kids Wish Network assists children and their families through several key programs including Wish Granting, Hero of the Month and the Holiday of Hope Gift Bank program.

Besides sports heroes, our Wish Kids also want to meet their favorite musicians, movie stars and other celebrities. Many of our Kids wish for a trip to Disney World and lots just want to shop at their favorite stores.

To learn more about this wonderful organization, click here.

*Thank you to both Madeline and Alicia!

December 10, 2009

We have a WINNER for the Photo Caption Contest!

But firt, let's run down the runners-up...

1."See, I told you Troy wears a wig!" -- Jill Ollier

2."Hey, Chuck. Look how much it cost me to take the O-line to dinner?" -- Justin Hancock

3."And this is my new three-story clothes closet with the elevator, just like Tiki Barber's". -- Nanit Noyb

4. Charlie: "Okay Ben here is a print-out of all your matches from the E-Harmony site."
Ben: "Okay great, umm...I'll take her, yep this one right here!!" -- Ashley Dancy

And tied for 5th place:

"Charlie, is that your name on Santa's naughty list?" -- Jen Smith

"Uh oh Charlie, looks like you made the naughty list this year!" -- Kim R.

All of these captions were added under the photo description in the gallery here.

On to the winner...

Now, it's not often you get a contest winner who sends TWO winning entries. Fred Carrow's first one, using the initial contest photo (top) was the unanimous winner:

Ben: "This is where I crossed off the Zhu Zhu Pets I really wanted, thinking Santa might then get Troy back in the Line-Up."

....but then he took my "creative caption" question on Tuesday's post to heart and sent a second caption with a reverse photo of his own (left), which we liked even better:

"Charlie Batch and Big Ben make some last minute changes to his wish list to Santa."

We decided to add them both!

So actually, Fred Carrow won twice!

Congratulations Fred!

You can see both photos and their captions here.

Thank you to everyone who sent in caption ideas! We had so many that it became obvious we would have to do this again in the near future!

And thank you to Trish, the site manager for both Brett-Keisel.com and Heath-Miller.com, and Jan, the site manager for TroyPolamaluFans.com, for helping me select the winner and runners-up!

And a shout-out to Anna and Lexi for their help with the photoshop assistance!

Also this afternoon:

Fred wasn't the only winner today...the Cleveland Police Department was too!

From NewsNet-5 in Cleveland:

Pittsburgh Steelers' Super Bowl Champion Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger announced Wednesday that The Giving Back Fund and the Ben Roethlisberger Foundation will distribute a grant to the Cleveland Division of Police.

The Cleveland Police Department has been seeking financial assistance for the purchase of vital training equipment for their K-9 Unit.

Cleveland Police Chief Michael McGrath said "Mr. Roethlisberger's commitment to public safety will once again enable us to enhance the security of our Patrol Officers and their K-9 partners and, ultimately, the people of the city of Cleveland.

"We had a specific need that through the generosity of the Ben Roethlisberger Foundation we were able to fill. We cannot thank our native Ohio son enough."

December 9, 2009

The Browns get ready for Big Ben...again!

Ben is 10-0 in his career against the Browns. The only other quarterback since 1970 to win his first 10 games against an opponent is John Elway. The Broncos quarterback beat the Patriots 10 straight times on his march to the Hall of Fame.

From the Cleveland Plain Dealer this evening:

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been having his share of headaches this season, but he's been causing the Browns headaches his entire career.

The Steelers' first-round pick in 2004 and a native of Findlay, Ohio, Roethlisberger has a perfect 10-0 record against Cleveland and will go for No. 11 Thursday night.

During the streak, he's:

- Thrown 14 TD passes and eight interceptions; and

- Posted six 100-plus passer ratings during the streak, including a 120.0 in the Christmas Eve massacre on Dec. 24, 2005.

"You've got to keep him in the pocket," said former Steeler Arnold Harrison. "He loves to get out of the pocket and create plays for his team. You've got to really try to get pressure on him and force him into some bad decisions, which he really doesn't make many. You've got to take him out of his element and make him make his reads from the pocket."

Said David Bowens (unable to keep his grasp on Ben during the October 18th game above): "Ben can make something out of nothing. Usually you see the receivers play off the quarterback, but he plays off his receivers. If something is broken, he's tough, he'll stay in there and take the hit, but he's not going down."

Added Matt Roth: "He's taking over that role of one of the elite quarterbacks in the league. They're throwing the ball a lot more and it's mostly due to him. You definitely have to throw him in there with the Mannings and Bradys. He's a proven winner, especially at this time of year."

To read the full article, click here.

Also this evening:

Ben adds his thoughts on athlete obligation to the community, from the Athletes for Hope site:

"Personally, I feel obligated to give back to my community. I can’t speak for other athletes, but like both Jeff [Gordon] and Mario [Lemieux] said, athletes are given so much by their community, that it is only right that they give back in spades. I was raised to appreciate my blessings and always try to help others who may not be as fortunate. I feel honored to be able to do so. My particular passion is helping police and firefighters, as it is important that they have the proper resources needed for them to protect their communities and be able to return home to their families each day. By providing police and fire department canine units in Pittsburgh and each NFL city I visit, I look to give back in a unique way that benefits every community that has touched my life. I am grateful for the opportunity."

To read the responses of other athletes, click here.

To learn more about Ben's Foundation, click here.

Picture of the Week

Ben pays a visit to the cast of NFL Network just minutes after winning Super Bowl XLIII.

To see other photos from Super Bowl XLIII, click here.

To see the latest pics, click here.

If you have a favorite photo you'd like to see as a future Picture of the Week, email me!

You can keep up with the latest Big Ben news on Twitter!

http://twitter/bigbennews

Don't forget...

to check out the Events section below for news of upcoming appearances for 2010.

Big Ben - 2009 Steelers MVP

December 31, 2009 - Ben has been chosen as the Pittsburgh Steelers' Most Valuable Player by his teammates for the first time in his six-season career.

"This means more to me than any other award. It tops them all," Ben said during his short press conference after the award was announced. "It was touching. I had to hold back some emotions when coach said it."

He has thrown for a team-record 4,108 yards with a game remaining Sunday at Miami, has 23 touchdown passes, 12 interceptions and a 98.9 passer rating this season!

Ben has set many of the Steelers' passing records since becoming the team's starting quarterback in 2004, including: single-game passing yards (503), season passing yards (4,328), 300-yard passing games in a season (5), completions in a season (302), completion rate in a season (66.6 percent), games of 100 passer rating in a career (36), season passer rating (104.1), touchdowns in a season (32) and more.

Congratulations to Ben!

Site Disclaimer

This is an unofficial fan site on Mr. Roethlisberger. For more information, click here.

2010 Ben Roethlisberger Football Camp

Open to boys and girls ages 7 to 14.

Date: Summer of 2010.

Location: Mars Area High School - Mars, PA

For a limited time only, purchase your camp spot for only $224!

Click here for information and to sign up for the Football Camp newsletter.

To see photos from last year's camp, click here.

Ben Roethlisberger Foundation

For more information and to donate, click below:

Ronald McDonald House Charities - Pittsburgh Area

For more information and to donate, click below:

Kids Wish Network

For more information and to donate, click below:

Big Ben's BBQ Sauce

Go with what the Pro's use:

A portion of the proceeds donated to The Ronald McDonald House. For home purchase and fundraisers!

Click on the image above for more info!

#1 Cochran's 2009 Limited Edition Big Ben Trucks

The Big Ben GMC Sierra comes with a number of awesome features, including the NUMBER 7!

For more information, click on the image below!

Events / Appearances

The Giving Back Fundraiser

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Miami, Florida

The Giving Back Fund and producer/director Michael Bay will host approximately 300 celebrities, athletes, and business leaders in an invitation-only cocktail and dinner fundraiser at the director's home to raise money for The Giving Back Fund's philanthropic programs.

Guests include Ben, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Jason Taylor, Adam Sandler, Jay Cutler, Jennifer Lopez, Chace Crawford, Matthew Morrison, Eli Manning, Kristin Cavallari, Aaron Rogers, and Jerry Bruckheimer.

For more information on the event, click here.

Michael Jordan's 2010 Celebrity Invitational

January 20-24, 2010

Paradise Island, Bahamas

Ben will join other celebrities from the sports and entertainment world in a charity golf tournament hosted by Michael Jordan at the beautiful Ocean Club Golf Course.

For information on the tournament and the charities that it will benefit, click here.

To check out photos, click here.

Television Alert

NFL Network - Sunday, Jan. 31st:

Super Bowl XL, Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Seattle Seahawks - Hines Ward propels the Steelers to victory over the Seahawks in Super Bowl XL February 5, 2006 at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan.

NFL Network - Sunday, Jan. 31st at 4:30pm (and again on Saturday, Feb. 6th at 9:30pm & Saturday Feb. 13th at 1pm):

Super Bowl XLIII, Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals - Ben Roethlisberger leads the Steelers to a dramatic come-from-behind victory in a wild back-and-forth game that set 12 Super Bowl records; Pittsburgh secured its record 6th Super Bowl with the win.

NFL Network - Friday, Feb. 5th at 8:30pm, Tuesday, Feb 9th at 8:00pm, & Wednesday, Feb 10th at 2:00pm:

Best of the Decade: The 2000s - The most memorable moments, plays, and players from the past ten years come to life through the images and sound of NFL Films, which names its Player, Coach, Team and Play of the Decade.

NFL Network - Monday, Feb. 8th at 6:00am & Tuesday, Feb. 9th at 4:30pm:

America's Game: 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers - Re-live the story of the 2008 Steelers through the eyes of Mike Tomlin, Ben Roethlisberger and Troy Polamalu. Narrated by Jon Hamm.

NFL Network - Friday, Feb. 12th at 6:30pm:

Weekly Countdown - 2009 Season: NFL Weekly Countdown looks at the most exciting moments from the 2009 NFL season.

To check NFL Network's full schedule, click here.

Magazine- Book Alert

Book: "Ben Roethlisberger: Gifted and Giving Football Star"

From author Tom Robinson, a new book for young readers:

A 128-page biography entitled, "Ben Roethlisberger: Gifted and Giving Football Star" is the new release from his "Sports Stars Who Give Back" series.

The book, published by Enslow Publishers, Inc. follows Ben's career starting with his college days at Miami of Ohio to the starting quarterback of the Champion Pittsburgh Steelers. It also chronicles his work in the community as well as his charities. The book is great reading for kids starting in 5th grade and up.

From the publisher:

"Ben Roethlisberger followed up his record-setting college career by leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to two Super Bowl titles in his first five years in the NFL. Along the way, he has aided communities through a variety of charitable efforts."

Mr. Robinson has authored books on other "Sports Stars" for this series including the NBA's Shaquille O'Neil, MLB's Derek Jeter and Andruw Jones, and the NFL's Donovan McNabb.

You can purchase his new book on Ben at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and Borders.com.

Men's Fitness, December, 2009 Issue

Ben will be on the cover and featured in a short interview/article entitled, "Big Ben! Toughest QB in the NFL".

The issue should be on newstands by mid-November.

To see the full cover, click here.

*Thank you to Men's Fitness for the heads-up email!

Outdoor Life magazine, December, 2009 Issue

Ben is featured in a short interview on the back page. He talks about his enjoyment of hunting and fishing.

The issue should be on newstands by mid-November.

USA TODAY Sports Weekly
Nov. 25-Dec. 1, 2009 Issue

Ben is on the cover and in the feature article/interview entitled, "Roethlisberger: Calm, collected amid chaos".

The issue will be on newstands from the last week of November to the first week of December.

To see the full cover, click here.

Sporting News, October 12, 2009 Issue

Ben and the Penguins Sidney Crosby are featured in a cover story entitled, "Black & Gold mettle: Pittsburgh is Best Sports City", with photos and a story.

The magazine should be available the weekend of October 9th.

Sports Illustrated, September 7, 2009 Issue

Ben is one of four regional cover boys for this week's SI, joining the Falcon's Matt Ryan, the Cowboy's Tony Romo, and the Packer's Aaron Rodgers.

The magazine should be available the weekend of September 4th-5th.

GQ Magazine, September, 2009 Issue

Ben sat down with GQ Magazine correspondent Jeanne Marie Laskas for an interview entitled, "THE GOAL IS FIVE RINGS".

To read the interview, click here.

DVD Alert

NFL Super Bowl XLIII: Pittsburgh Steelers Champions DVD

On February 1, 2009, the Pittsburgh Steelers became the first franchise in NFL history to win their sixth Super Bowl. The title was the Steelers second in four seasons. It was the first under second-year head coach Mike Tomlin. Led by a defense that ranked first in yards allowed per game (237.2), passing yards allowed per game (156.9), points allowed per game (13.9) and second in rushing yards allowed per game (80.3), the Steelers finished the regular season 12-4 to win the AFC North Division title.

After defeating San Diego and Baltimore in the AFC playoffs, Pittsburgh culminated its championship run with a victory over the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII. Relive all the thrilling moments of the 2008 Steelers, from Opening Day right through Super Bowl XLIII. NFL Films tells their story with action highlights and exclusive sideline and locker room sound from Pittsburgh’s record-setting season.

Available at Amazon.com.

NFL Pittsburgh Steelers: Road to XLIII (2009)

Nothing is easy when the season is on the line. Four times during the 2008 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ "fate" hung in the balance. Each time they withstood the challenge. The result: their NFL-record sixth Vince Lombardi Trophy. It was a team that displayed classic Pittsburgh toughness. From quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to a punishing defense led by Troy Polamalu and 2008 Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison, the Steelers battled for every yard from the first snap to the final whistle. Now, in this unforgettable four-disc set, relive the Steelers remarkable championship run with the original network broadcasts of four thrilling games.

Follow Pittsburgh from their exciting Week-15 clash against Baltimore – the game that decided the AFC North title – through their playoff victories over San Diego and Baltimore again, to their breathtaking victory over Arizona in Super Bowl XLIII. Over these four games, the Pittsburgh Steelers became super once again. Now, those games are yours to own on DVD. Disc 1: Week 15 – Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens Disc 2: AFC Divisional Playoffs – San Diego Chargers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Disc 3: AFC Championship Game – Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Disc 4: Super Bowl XLIII – Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals.

Available at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

Miami of Ohio, Rewriting the Book - A Tribute to a Storybook Season, 2003

Follow the magic of the RedHawks 2003 football campaign with game highlights and never-before-seen interviews with players and coaches. This DVD was released in February, 2007 and though availability is now limited, you can still purchase it online here.

Speaking of Big Ben...

"I felt like we had our moments where we were unstoppable, we had moments we stopped ourselves and moments when the defense stopped us." -- Ben, summing up the 2009 Steelers season.

"It's probably hard for people to wrap their heads and their fingers around, but this offense is changing. This team is changing on offense. It's not a run-it-first team anymore. And that's not a bad thing, it really isn't. We've got two 1,000-yard receivers. We'll have a 1,000-yard rusher. It's a pretty fun thing." -- Ben, talking to reporters about the direction of the Steelers - present and future, December 23, 2009.

"He's just, in my opinion, one of the best in the league. He's the real reason why we're in this position. He's one of the greats, and I'm glad he's in here with us." -- Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel, on Ben's performance in the clutch, December 23, 2009.

"Ben Roethlisberger is an elite, premier quarterback in this league and he's shown that many times before." -- Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, December 22, 2009.

"It's a scary thing. I don't know what it would be like to lose a teammate, and I don't know what it would be like if one of these teammates lost me for something like that. So, it's a tough thing. My heart goes out to the family and his teammates." -- Ben, reflecting on the untimely passing of Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry.

"My favorite thing (as a kid) was playing backyard football. I've always loved that. I guess that's what I'm doing, just out there playing ball. I try to play the game with a lot of heart and passion. I hope it shows.

"I like being the hunter - not the hunted. I realize that if you are the hunted, it means you're on top. To me, I want to hunt you - then beat you at the end. To go undefeated would be a great feat. But all the crap that goes with it - everybody chasing you - well, I want to be the guy who sneaks up from behind. That's just my mentality.

"I absolutely hate to lose in anything. Hate it. It burns me, drives me crazy." -- Ben, from an interview/article in the November 25, 2009 issue of USA TODAY Sports Weekly.

"In 2005...as you may remember, the Pittsburgh game, we started slowly, came back as we always do and missed a field goal to send it into overtime. It wasn't as though we were not competitive in the Pittsburgh game. In fact, we were exceedingly competitive. And, but for a great play by Ben Roethlisberger, tackling Nick Harper, we would have won the game on a 100-yard return of a fumble. Roethlisberger made a great play. They went on to win the Super Bowl." -- Indianapolis Colts President Bill Polian, during an interview on his team in December, 2009.

"He's a winner. I don't care about stats; I don't care about fantasy points. You can't knock the man for winning and for what he's done his six years in the League. Fourth quarter he comes back and wins games and everyone wants us to go out and throw the ball all the time. That's not going to happen we like to run the ball. Ben just feels comfortable with his role." -- Hines Ward, from an article in the Pittsburgh Sports Examiner, October 16, 2009.

"He's accomplished a lot more than I have, in a short period of time too. That's what makes him so great, makes him the elite quarterback that he is. The four, five years he's been in the league, they're always there. They're always winning Super Bowls. He's the guy who has raised everyone's level of play. Everybody else is trying to catch up with him." -- Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, from an article in the Chicago Tribune, September 22, 2009.

"Ben takes somewhat of a beating because of the way he plays the game. He plays to win and he doesn't back off on certain plays. He's trying to kill people on every play and he puts himself in harm's way because of it, but he also creates a bunch of plays in how he plays the game. I don't equate what happened with him with what happened with the running game. He got sacked just as much in 2007 when we were third in the league in rushing." -- Coach Tomlin in an article on Yahoo Sports, August 19, 2009.

"We don't get caught up with how many times Ben gets hit. If Ben gets hurt, that's a different story, we need him out there. He's the franchise. But we don't want to change the way he plays the game. He's a gunslinger, he likes to make plays." -- Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, in an interview with the Cumberland County Sentinel, June 14, 2009.

"That's just Ben Roethlisberger being Superman!" -- John Madden, Super Bowl XLIII - first quarter after Ben escaped being sacked three times in one play before completing a pass to Heath Miller for a first down.

"Roethlisberger is not the type of glorified quarterback who gets constant praise for putting up gaudy numbers. He just does what it takes to win. Take Pittsburgh’s final drive, for example.

"Pittsburgh trailed by three points with 2 minutes and 37 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. A la Hall of Fame quarterbacks Joe Montana and John Elway, Roethlisberger led the Steelers 78 yards in eight plays, capped by a flawless 6-yard throw and catch to wide receiver Santonio Holmes.

"Holmes was named the Most Valuable player due to his game-winning catch and 131 receiving yards, but Roethlisberger was more deserving of the award. If Tom Brady, Brett Favre, Peyton Manning or any other superstar quarterback did what Roethlisberger had done, they would have been named MVP. No questions asked. All Roethlisberger does is win. At 26, he’s a two-time Super Bowl Champ." -- Sports journalist Tyler Huey, Nisqually Valley (WA) News, February 7, 2009.

Ben Roethlisberger: "How many times have we seen the 6-foot 5-inch, 240 pound quarterback, move around in the pocket in order to buy sometime for his receivers to get open down the field to make a play. Yeah he may resemble a linebacker rather than a quarterback, but when it comes to his play on field, there is no question he can make all the throws, make smart decisions and lead the Steelers to victory. If "BIG BEN" wasn't among the great and elite quarterbacks in the NFL before the Super Bowl, he certainly is now and more performances like he had Sunday along with more Super Bowl victories will surely cement his spot in Canton as a Hall of Famer." -- Black Athlete Sports Network, February 4, 2009.

"I heard all the talk all week, and if you're gonna tell me that Ben Roethlisberger is not an elite quarterback then you don't know what you're talking about!" -- Former NFL head coach, player and current football analyst Mike Ditka on ESPN Radio's Mike & Mike show this morning.

"Ben's a damn tough guy. He's one of the biggest competitors in this locker room. Any time anyone goes down and someone's poking their fingers and they can't feel it, that's scary. Anytime you get numbness and things like that you have to take every precaution. That's the trainers' job to do that, and they did it. Luckily, it was only as severe as it was and he can hopefully help us win this week.

"Look at what the guy's been through from the time he got here. He's been through a lot and still stands up in the pocket and makes guys miss and makes plays for us. I think he's tough as hell." -- Brett Keisel, in an article in the San Diego Union-Tribune, Jan. 10, 2009.

"I make the argument that Ben Roethlisberger is the Most Valuable Player at this juncture in the NFL. To me, when you say MVP, there is the word 'valuable' in there. He has been that for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He has had some wonderful stat years and won a Super Bowl. But the way things have transpired this year has to be one of the most rewarding stretches of football he has ever had. He has had back-to-back-to-back incredible fourth quarter rallies.

"To play as well as he has played late in fourth quarters – as an NFL quarterback you hope to have one-or-two games like that a year. He is at a stage now when you say he has absolutely matured. He understands everything about their team. He understands his role and he carries it out perfectly. It is a great honor to him that he is getting it done mentally and is also good enough to get it done physically." -- Phil Simms, NFL analyst and CBS sportscaster.

"On the final drive, Roethlisberger completed passes to Hines Ward and Nate Washington that put the Steelers at midfield. Roethlisberger has been criticized this season for throwing interceptions and holding the ball too long, but this drive would be a microcosm of the Steelers’ season, of Roethlisberger’s career: resilient and remarkable." -- From an article in The New York Times, Dec. 14, 2008.

"It just seems like he tends to grow a cape. We kind of feed off him." -- Steelers offensive tackle Willie Colon talks about his quarterback after their win against the Cowboys on Dec. 7th.

"It was unbelieveable. You just get to the sideline, put your coat on, your hat on, and all of a sudden, you're ready to go back on the field." -- Ben referring to the job the Steelers defense did during their win over the Patriots on November 30th.

"He ain't no drama queen! I love everything about him. I mean he could have played in the '20's, the '30's, '50's, 80's...you know, he's one of those guys that hangs in there." -- Former Coach Mike Ditka on Ben (making a reference to talk started by MNF's Tony Kornheiser during a Monday night game), during the Monday Night Football Countdown Show, November 3rd.

"Ben is a leader, he's a great leader. If you watch practice, you watch him, he has control of all his guys, he has control of the offensive line, everyone looks up to him for leadership. I think they're seeing that from him this year and that's why they elected him captain." -- Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel, Pittsburgh Post Gazette (September 4th).

"He's definitely matured. He's stepped into a leading role on this team, as a captain and as a player. I think he's really come a long way. He's always been a great player, but as a person and as a player, he's come a long way." -- Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith talks about Big Ben, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (September 4th).

Fan Encounters

Have you met Ben? Had your picture taken with him? Taken a picture of him? If the answer is yes, and you would like to share your story and/or photo, please email me!

REP 1 Sports Foundation

The REP 1 Sports Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to youth development -- co-founded by Bruce A. Tollner and Ryan Tollner.

Steelers Game Schedule

2009 Schedule:

Training Camp:

The Steelers report to training camp at St. Vincent College in Latrobe July 31st and will hold their first practice Aug. 1st

All afternoon practices are open and begin at 2:55 p.m. The only night practice will take place Aug. 7 at Latrobe Memorial Stadium.

Aug. 1st through 11th, (7th is at 7pm) and Aug 15th through 20th.

2009 Regular Season:

• Thur, Sept. 10, 2009
» vs Titans, 8:30pm
» NBC
» Steelers 13, Titans 10

• Sun, Sept. 20, 2009
» @ Bears, 4:15pm
» CBS
» Bears 17, Steelers 14

• Sun, Sept. 27, 2009
» @ Bengals, 4:15pm
» CBS
» Steelers 20, Bengals 23

• Sun, Oct 4, 2009
» vs Chargers, 8:20pm
» NBC
» Chargers 28, Steelers 38

• Sun, Oct 11, 2009
» @ Lions, 1:00pm
» CBS
» Steelers 28, Lions 20

• Sun, Oct 18, 2009
» vs Browns, 1:00pm
» CBS
» Browns 14, Steelers 27

• Sun, Oct 25, 2009
» vs Vikings, 1:00pm
» FOX
» Vikings 17, Steelers 27

• Sun, Nov 1, 2009
» BYE WEEK

• Mon, Nov 9, 2009
» @ Broncos, 8:30pm
» ESPN
» Steelers 28, Broncos 10

• Sun, Nov 15, 2009
» vs Bengals, 1:00pm
» CBS
» Bengals 18, Steelers 12

• Sun, Nov 22, 2009
» @ Chiefs, 1:00pm
» CBS
» Steelers 24, Chiefs 27

• Sun, Nov 29, 2009
» @ Ravens, 8:20pm
» NBC
» Steelers 17, Ravens 20

• Sun, Dec 6, 2009
» vs Raiders, 1:00pm
» CBS
» Raiders 27, Steelers 24

• Thur, Dec 10, 2009
» @ Browns, 8:20pm
» NFLN
» Steelers 6, Browns 13

• Sun, Dec 20, 2009
» vs Packers, 4:15pm
» FOX
» Packers 36, Steelers 37

• Sun, Dec 27, 2009
» vs Ravens, 1:00pm
» CBS
» Ravens 20, Steelers 23

• Sun, Jan 3, 2009
» @ Dolphins, 1:00pm
» CBS
» Steelers 30, Dolphins 24

For the full schedule, click here.

The Coach Hep Scholarship Fund

The Miami University Athletic Department, with the blessing of the Hoeppner family, has established the "Coach Hep Scholarship Fund" in memory of former head football coach Terry Hoeppner, who passed away June 19, 2007 after battling brain cancer. For more information and to donate, click here.

Book - Hep Remembered: Memories of Terry Hoeppner From Those Who Knew Him

By: Terry Hutchens Foreword by: Ben Roethlisberger

To order, click here.

Ben on the Cover - click on cover for article or complete version.