Well said Junc. I know we don't always see eye to eye but this one we're in total agreement. Ben's QB rating in the three playoff games before the SB was like 128.3. He was phenomenal. I'm willing to chalk up his first Super Bowl appearance to some 2nd year jitters. Also running stats don't factor into QB Ratings, so all his rushing touchdowns and conversions never factor into his overall rating. I'm just glad he's quarterbacking my favorite team and no one else.
I'm not sold on him being one of the 'great' QBs, but he's proven to be one of the better current QB's. The key to the Steelers success this decade (and previous) is still defense. That defense is like an avalanche when momentum swings their way. Ben usually has to do just enough to seal the deal, as opposed to putting a game on his back from start to finish. He contributes well within his role on that team. I credit Lebeau, Polamalu, Harrison, et all as much as i'd credit Ben for the previous 2.
The beauty about the Steelers is that when the D is off that day, the O is capable of winning the game. It's a team effort.
In the big games i've seen, the D has been key. Whether it be harassing the QB, or making a key turnover/TD, they've been a tremendous factor on the outcome. And that is not a knock on Ben. That is how i want the Jets to roll. They certainly didn't get to the championship 2 years in row solely based on Sanchez. It's amazing how much a good defense can benefit the success of a QB. I'm hoping the Jets continue to emphasize that as part of their identity going forward.
Yes Lewis is easily the heart and soul of that team, but its not like they cant win without him. When the Steelers dont have Polamalu they fall into pieces. And their record over the years with and without him proves it. Lewis is a stud and legendary player, but the Ravens have won without Lewis, theyve won without Reed, hell theyve won without an entire offense.
the ravens don't win without ray lewis. and the only reason they won without an offense is because of one of the greatest defenses of all time, which was led by him. in the 2 seasons that lewis has missed more than 2 games, the ravens went 7-9 and 6-10. their defense also dropped from top 6 to 19th and 10th ranked.
regular season Ravens with Ray Lewis: 114-95-1 Ravens without Ray Lewis: 14-16 regular season + postseason Ravens with Ray Lewis: 123-101-1 Ravens without Ray Lewis: 14-16
Good thread. I really hope Ryan continues to grow as a coach, and MT as a GM, to the point where they are here long term (8-10 years) together. It would hopefully be indicative of not only stability, but success measured by AT LEAST one Super Bowl victory.
