Simply, Ben was bulletproof in the second half... ...which is why the decision (on "third & six") to have Ben run a draw made absolutely no sense. Bruce Ariens (and Mike Tomlin) took the ball out of their top play-maker's hands. In other words, the Steelers are about to sign Ben to a huge ($75 million) contract...yet, the coaches were afraid to allow Ben to throw the ball.
The worst thing that could have happened (if Ben dropped back to pass) was that Ben threw an incomplete pass, which would have stopped the clock. Conversely, if Ben completes that first down, the game is essentially over (and the Steelers win). In other words, the risk versus reward was overwhelmingly in favor of attempting the pass. Furthermore, the rhythm that Ben was in, only increased the likelihood that Ben completes the pass.
Alas...
DEFENISVE END & FREE-SAFETY
Speaking of quarterbacks, David Gerrard scrambled on a fourth down...right through the hole where the injured Aaron Smith would have been. Aaron's importance is glaring...and not just on that play. In the four games that he was out, the Steelers allowed more touchdowns than they did in the previous twelve games combined. And, as far as stopping the run goes...one word: ugly. Considering Aaron's age, it would behoove the Steelers to draft (or sign) a run-stopping end, who case at least rotate with Aaron. Because, as it is, without Aaron Smith, Pittsburgh's defense is mediocre at best.
Similarly, the Steelers need a free-safety who can actually: a) cover receivers and also b) tackle. Tyrone Carter got juked so badly, that he made David Gerrard look like Barry Sanders. And, Anthony Smith can hit...but that is about it. Smith went from a nickelback phenom to a starter who can not grasp the concept that NO ONE is supposed to get deeper than the free-safety. I have not given up on Smith...yet. But, he had better start playing smarter (instead of just trying to put a knock-out blow on everyone); otherwise, his days are numbered.
SUMMATION
If the Steelers can shore up their gaping holes, they might have a chance at going further than the first round of the play-offs next season. But, more importantly, once those weaknesses are strengthened, I beg Bruce Ariens (and Mike Tomlin) to allow Pittsburgh's playmakers to make plays. Because, as overused and mundane of a statement as it is, the following is an absolute truth: playing not to lose, leads to a loss. And, Pittsburgh has enough talented players to be "playing to win" on every single play. Furthermore...simply...my television tray-tables do not want to experience another quarterback draw on "third & six."
