Behind Inspired Backups, Roethlisberger Rules Ohio Again
CINCINNATI (93-7 THE FAN) -- Their first three road games followed a familiar script, but, fortunately for the Steelers, so did this one.
With a 24-17 decision in Cincinnati, they won their fifth consecutive road meeting with the Bengals, and Findlay native Big Ben improved to 27-5 all-time against Ohio teams.
"We went out there and said, 'Let's not put it on our defense, let's close this thing out.' I missed a throw to Antonio [Brown], unfortunately, because I got caught between throws, and I'm upset with myself over that one. But I'm happy our defense got off the field, and we were able to milk the clock," said Roethlisberger, who finished 27-of-37 for 278 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
He was aided by a running game that produced more yardage than it had all season, and an offensive line that played inspired football, as Doug Legursky and rookie Mike Adams stepped in, respectively, for injured Pro Bowl center Maurkice Pouncey and right tackle Marcus Gilbert.
"I'm proud of a lot of guys--[Dwyer], Rainey, Batch, Doug Legursky...not to take anything away from the guys who are usually out there, but we never have doubt those guys can't step up and play great," he said. "I'm really proud of their performance, and being able to run the ball out there in the end."
Reserve running back Jonathan Dwyer spelled the passing game with a Steelers season-high 122 yards on 17 carries, and Roethlisberger elaborated on why the ground game was more successful than usual:
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The Steelers (3-3), winners of 12 of 14 games at Paul Brown Stadium since it opened, return to Heinz Field for a 1:00 game against the Redskins (3-4) this approaching Sunday.
