Say what you want about Big Ben

[MCG321]

I have a lot of faith in the Steelers 3rd and 4th string running backs, Verron Haynes and Willie Parker - they are no slouches.

I really didn't know how good they were, which is why I said what I did. If they can step in and carry heavy loads, then I see no reason for the Steelers to stop their ball-control offense.

[The Lung]

I'm not saying they are AWESOME, I mean there's probably a good reason they aren't starting running backs, although they could probably start for a few clubs (Miami, Oakland, Arizona...)

Haynes is a strong third down back. Parker had 19 rushes for 102 yards in week 17, the last game of the year for the Steelers when they were resting starters, but playing against the first string Buffalo defense trying to reach the playoffs. That spoke volumes to me.

[Cooner]

I'm not saying they are AWESOME, I mean there's probably a good reason they aren't starting running backs, although they could probably start for a few clubs (Miami, Oakland, Arizona...)

Haynes is a strong third down back. Parker had 19 rushes for 102 yards in week 17, the last game of the year for the Steelers when they were resting starters, but playing against the first string Buffalo defense trying to reach the playoffs. That spoke volumes to me.

the main reason he had the impressive yardage was breaking one for 50ish yards. Not to take anything away from him- it was a great performance, but I wouldn't use that one game to say he's the heir-apparent to Duce/Bettis. Maybe he is, maybe not.

[The Lung]

the main reason he had the impressive yardage was breaking one for 50ish yards. Not to take anything away from him- it was a great performance, but I wouldn't use that one game to say he's the heir-apparent to Duce/Bettis. Maybe he is, maybe not.

Excellent point. Take away that 58 yard scramble, and he had 18 rushes for 44 yards, which is only 2.4 ypc.

I also did a little research and found that Parker had 202 yards on 46 attempts and 2 TDs during the 2004 preseason, which isn't too shabby. Of course, that is immediately countered with "Preseason means nothing!"

[petedog9]

Not to make any excuses for Ben because he threw a few passes he shouldnt have and obviously struggled in that game. But I just read were he sustained 2 broken toes early in the first quarter of that game...

[portisfan24]

Nobody was talking bad about Ben. Many of us belieevd he would struggle, and he did. I still tihnk hes a good quarterback. I dont think he will ever be a great passing QB (Manning, Culpepper, etc.) but he is a good leader and should take the Steelers deep into the playoffs for many years.