NFL Power Rankings: Top 10 Current Nicknames
By Erik Lambert
Jan 3, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) runs off the field during the second half against the Baltimore Ravens in the 2014 AFC Wild Card playoff football game at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
#5: Ben Roethlisberger: “Big Ben“
Nicknames like this are great because they hold a rare mixture of simplicity and complexity at the same time. “Big Ben” is simple because Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is, frankly, a big guy. At 6’5″, 240 lbs the guy is built like a linebacker with the powerful arm to match.
Where the fun part comes in is the nickname also pays tribute to the iconic clock tower at the Palace of Westminster in London. It has been around since 1834 and is considered the most popular landmark across the United Kingdom. Every time its bells chime is meant to mark only the most special occasions in the country.
Not bad company to keep for Roethlisberger, who is building his own legacy as one of the best quarterbacks of an entire generation. There may be a time when the nickname is referenced more to him than that tower in London if he keeps his current pace.
Probably not though.