Dec 28 2008
Steelers Blowout Browns 31-0, but Win Comes with a Cost
It was the one thing Steelers fans did not want to see heading into the playoffs, an injury to the starting quarterback. Ben Roethlisberger was carried off the field mid-way through the second quarter with a concussion. Roethlisberger was then taken to the hospital for further evaluation. The first-round bye week secured by the Pittsburgh Steelers could not come at better time, as it will give Roethlisberger an extra week to recover from the injury and hopefully allow him enough time to prepare for the Divisional round of the playoffs.
If Roethlisberger is not cleared to play, the Steelers’ playoff hopes will depend on backup quarterback, Byron Leftwich. Leftwich has had experience at starting quarterback this season, not to mention the four years he started in Jacksonville. Back in Week 9, Leftwich came in for an injured Roethlisberger and led the Steelers to an impressive victory over the Washington Redskins. In Sunday’s game against Browns Leftwich went 7-12 for 80 yards, and had an 8-yard touchdown run.
The Steelers’ absolutely demolished the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. The defense allowed no points, and Steelers’ safety, Tyrone Carter, intercepted two passes, one returned for a touchdown. Another Steeler who deserves mention is halfback, Willie Parker who rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown.
By Michael C. Smith
