Vick and Ben Essays - National Football League, American Football

Its been almost 3 weeks since Ben Roethlisberger had a tragic MCL sprain (4-6 weeks) while facing the St. Louis Rams. What have we learned about the Steelers (3-2) since Big Bens accident? The obvious conclusion is that Roethlisberger, like the last 11 seasons, in the main facilitator of this offense. An offense, which many say, is the most dangerous in all of the NFL. With LeVeon Bell, last years leader in yards from scrimmage, Antonio Brown, one of the best (if not the best) wideouts in the game, and Martavis Bryant, the Steelers #1 deep threat, all being orchestrated by last years passing leader, Ben Roethlisberger, the Steel Citys offense is the fiercest it has been since the 70s dynasty. The 4 Bs, as well as a renewed offensive line, were going to lead Pittsburgh in the contention for the Lombardi Trophy. Then in Week 3, Rams safety Mark Barron sacked Big Ben, hitting him just below the left knee, leading to the MCL sprain. Who was to come in after this devastating injury? None other than Michael Vick. After Bruce Gradkowski suffered a dislocated finger during preseason, and the confidence in Landry Jones became a figment of their imagination, the Steelers signed stay-at-home dad, Michael Vick. Upon his arrival, Vick was placed into the 2nd-string slot, ahead of Landry Jones. Vick was the best option, and even after his showing in his first 2 starts, he still is the best option because no one wants to witness Landry Jones starting a game in the NFL. Steelers fans would rather see punter Jordan Berry start before Landry Jones. Thus, the need for Vick was dire. So far, Vick has gone 1-1 with a disappointing Week 4 loss against Baltimore, and a jaw-dropping Week 5 win against San Diego. His record should be 2-0, but thanks to the leg, or lack thereof, of Josh Scobee, missed field goals cost Pittsburgh a win against their then winless archrivals (Scobee is now a free agent). As we all know, the Steelers were Saved by the Bell in their win against the Chargers. LeVeon Bell scoring from 1 yard out as time expired saved a very poor outing by Michael Vick. Seeing this, one may think that the Steelers are faring well, but in fact every snap with Vick at quarterback causes a nationwide cringe. There is an obvious lack of chemistry between Michael Vick and the Steelers Pro Bowl wide receiver, Antonio Brown. Browns stats have plummeted in the past couple of games. His streak of 35 regular season games of having at least 5 catches and at least 50 yards was snapped in Vicks first start. After averaging 10 catches, 145 yards, and 15 yards/catch through the first 3 games (all Ben starts), Brown has been held to averaging 4 catches, 43 1/2 yards, and 12 yards/catch in the past 2 games (Vick starts. The past couple of games, Antonio Browns stats have dropped 50-60%, giving him the numbers of a 3rd string slot receiver. Brown has even told the media that he thinks he [doesnt] get the ball enough [Vick is] playing conservative to make sure [the Steelers] get the win. Vick has only had a total of 227 passing yards in his 2 starts. In Bens first tw o games this year, he had a total of 720 passing yards (not counting Week 3 due to injury). The Steelers passing game is producing 69% less with Vick than with Ben. With offensive coordinator Todd Haley using more of a passing philosophy, many other Steelers have had to step up. LeVeon Bell has had to take the majority of the workload, and is thriving with 240 yards through Vicks two starts. Stephon Tuitt, Cameron Heyward, and Bud Dupree have risen up on defense, accounting for more than 50% of the teams total sacks. Also, Ross Cockrell, one of the biggest surprises for this young defense, has been playing lockdown coverage throughout the season. An interception and a fumble recovery add to this 4th year veteran out of Dukes stat sheet. Overall, the Pittsburgh secondary, which brought many concerns due to the lack of experience, has stepped up since Big Bens absence. Final Thoughts