NFL Pittsburgh Steelers

What Has Gotten Into Pittsburgh Steelers’ Ben Roethlisberger?

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Any Pittsburgh Steelers fan will tell you Ben Roethlisberger has had his share of ups and downs while he has been this team’s quarterback.

There is no denying this two-week stretch has been the hottest of Roethlisberger’s career; at least when it comes to getting into the end zone.Roethlisberger has 12 touchdowns in his past two games, an NFL record, after throwing just 10 scoring passes in the first seven games of the season.

Before this, the previous record of 11 touchdowns in two games was shared by two quarterbacks, both named Tom. The first time occurred in 1963 by Tom Flores, who was part of the old American Football League (all AFL records were grandfathered in when the AFL and NFL merged in 1970).

The other time happened in 2007 by some quarterback named Tom Brady. Chances are you’ve heard of him.

Roethlisberger has thrown six touchdowns apiece against two of the toughest defenses in the AFC. The Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens are not slouches when it comes to defense, so for Roethlisberger to toss six touchdowns in each game makes a statement. Next week’s opponent is the New York Jets. You shudder to think what Roethlisberger can do against a defense that may get shredded like the crepe paper coming off a pinata.

What has gotten into Roethlisberger? Whatever it is, the Steelers want to bottle it up and make sure it stays potent the rest of the way. The Steelers, who have not yet had a bye, are the first team in the AFC North to reach six victories. Combined with the potency of the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns, these wins keep the Steelers relevant in the AFC North race.

It also keeps Roethlisberger in the MVP conversations. All of a sudden, Roethlisberger has 22 touchdowns with just three interceptions. It is one of the best seasons of his career, if not the best.

Yes, coach Mike Tomlin may be asking what got into Roethlisberger. Steelers fans don’t mind. They want more.

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