Despite Loss, Ben Roethlisberger Performed Well & Recognized For Efforts

Aug 24, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) throws a pass as offensive tackle Mike Adams (76) blocks for him against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first half at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Although there were a number of negatives to take away from Pittsburgh’s 26-20 OT loss to the Chiefs this evening, it was finally nice to see the team’s quarterback get back in a rhythm.

Ben Roethlisberger’s efforts were recognized this evening by Bob Labriola of Steelers Digest, and Labriola named the quarterback the publication’s “Player of the Week” for his efforts against Kansas City.

Big Ben finally broke through in his most extensive action of the preseason, and was definitely the Steelers’ most effective offensive player on the field tonight.  Roethlisberger spotted his team a 10-0 lead in the first quarter, and most importantly led his team up and down the field throughout the first half.  Overall, Pittsburgh’s signal-caller went 13 for 19, racked up 166 passing yards, and threw a 13-yard touchdown pass to Jonathan Dwyer before he exited the game for good.

“Big Ben’s” stats on the night could have been even more awesome.  Unfortunately,  big mistakes in the second quarter hurt him and his team’s chances to flatten the Chiefs.  An illegal chop block by Dwyer on what could have been a 17 yard catch by Antonio Brown drove the Steelers out of field goal range, while a big drop by Emmanuel Sanders on what should have been a 34-yard touchdown pass later on in the quarter negated another score.  Both drives resulted in zero points, and the Steelers’ 10-0 lead evaporated when Kansas City tied the game with less than 20 seconds to go in the half.

While Roethlisberger’s protection was not anything “stellar,” he was kept upright enough to make positive things happen for his offense.  With “Big Ben” under center, the Steelers will always have a chance to compete.  Thus, it was promising to see the two-time “Pro Bowler” looking like his normal self despite the fact that his team fell to 0-3 in preseason play.

Players Stats & Info. Provided By: ESPN.com, Steelers.com and Pro Football Reference

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