NFL Takeaways: Ben Roethlisberger Let Down by Teammates
By Erik Lambert
Ben Roethlisberger isn’t the only quarterback feeling the pressure in the NFL this season. Here are some takeaways from the latest news and rumors.
Le’Veon Bell and LeGarrette Blount put burden on Big Ben
Even as the hype was building around the speed Pittsburgh was assembling in their passing attack, the overlooked aspect that would make the Steelers such a dangerous offense would be their reinvigorated ground game headlined by running backs LeGarrette Blount and Le’Veon Bell. Unfortunately, their seasons took a darker turn when police arrested and charged them for marijuana possession. This is almost certain to earn both of them suspensions from the NFL. How long remains to be seen but won’t change the fact that the burden of the Steelers offense is right back on the shoulders of Ben Roethlisberger.
Houston Texans games will see a lot of sacks
Bill O’Brien has a lot to figure out regarding his Houston Texans team. One thing fans have begun to notice and accept as a possible trend is that sacks may become a regular part of their games. Most would instantly assume that means J.J. Watt and #1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney will terrorize opposing quarterbacks this season. Yes, that is true. However, it’s only half of the story. The other part is how many times the Houston quarterbacks may have to hit the deck in 2014. Ryan Fitzpatrick and the rest of the depth chart have felt heat frequently through the first two games of the preseason and it became very pronounced in recent scrimmages against the Denver Broncos. One way or another, it’s clear no quarterback is safe when the Texans are in town. Not even their own.
Jim Kelly is just what the Buffalo Bills need
Any time the ownership of a pro sports team is about to change, it is a long and complicated process. There is no predicting how things will end up. For the Buffalo Bills however, there is no question fans may play favorites in the ongoing race to replace the late Ralph Wilson. That badge goes to Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly who is hoping to purchase the team that he led to four-straight Super Bowls. One can understand his confidence. Based on the latest tests the always-tough Kelly has beaten back cancer.
More than that though is what he represents. Kelly is an integral part of the Bills’ history. That history was always centered in Buffalo. If anybody would refuse any notion of moving the team out of town, it would be him. Throw in the unfinished business he has of getting the franchise to a Lombardi trophy, there is little question he is the owner the Bills need. Because it matters to him.