Avoiding Roethlisberger No More

I’ve intentionally stayed away from writing about the Ben Roethlisberger saga, simply because it makes me sick to my stomach. But, it’s time for me to vent and for you to listen.

As a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, I’ve got an emotional investment in the events that transpired and as a father, I’ve got even more reason to study the case closely. As I’ve said, I’ve withheld judgment for the two time Super Bowl winning quarterback for the most part but it’s time to speak out.

The latest news in the ever turning world of Roethlisberger is that he’s done for six games. Not because anyone could prove anything, but because he tarnished the shield of the NFL and the Steelers.

Let’s take a look at both sides of my case here, as a Steelers fan and as a father.

As a Steelers fan it makes me sick to my stomach. We’re talking about not only one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, but also one of the classiest, from the ownership to the coaching staff to the players, they’re all expected to not only live the NFL conduct policy to a ‘T’ but to exceed it, to make it better.

Roethlisberger has done a lot for the team, but consistently putting himself in the situations that he does put not only himself in a bad light, but more importantly the team and the organization as a whole. Steelers fans could really care less what Roethlisberger makes himself look like, as he has the reputation of a jackass in the area. But, when you mess with the history of our team, with the logo on your helmet that’s absolutely unacceptable. He’s essentially bit the hand that feeds him.

To be perfectly honest, I would’ve been quite happy if we would have traded him for a top ten pick and started fresh with Dennis Dixon. That’s how done with Roethlisberger I am.

Looking at it from the view of a father of a young daughter, it’s one of the most disgusting things I’ve read since…well, since the last time I read about Roethlisberger’s allegations.

I’ve gone on record as being one of his biggest supporters through everything. Until this time. And the next two allegations didn’t help matters. Quite simply, I think he got off easy.

Michael Vick gets suspended indefinitely for killing dogs (a heinous act in itself) and Roethlisberger gets six games for ruining four women’s lives (if the allegations are true)?

Seems fair to me.

I understand the league’s hands are tied at the moment but the good news is that pending further evidence, etc. the suspension could be longer and since he’s obviously shown no remorse for his alleged actions nor a willingness to change his ways, I wouldn’t be surprised to see it happen.

I do know this though: the Rooney family isn’t joking when they tell the players to walk on eggshells. If Roethlisberger so much as sneezes during a Mass, he’ll be gone. And he very well should be. He’s spent the entire off-season giving the team the finger, he doesn’t deserve to wear that proud logo on his helmet.

I’m not taking away from his talent or accomplishments on the field. He’s a phenomenal quarterback – a game changer without a doubt. If he does go, it’ll be a tough time in Pittsburgh for awhile, but as always the team will get through it. We suffered through the Kordell Stewart and Tommy Maddox years and we’re still standing strong.

Roethlisberger either needs to shape up and change his ways, or he needs to ship out and take his baggage with him.