There have been quarterback controversies in the NFL in the past, there has even been a few on the Steelers teams of old, but nothing compares to what is going on right now in Pittsburgh.
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Before Thursday night, we had it all figured out, well, pretty much that is. We all assumed Byron Leftwich would get the starting roll, Dennis Dixon would back him up, and Charlie Batch would follow them. Then it happened. A twisting of the knee and everything gets mixed up. Mike Tomlin was apparently already having enough trouble figuring this much out. He really didn't need another headache. I sit here and think how much of a non story this would be if Ben Roethlisberger wasn't such a hmmm... Nimrod off of the field. Leftwich has a partial MCL tear in his planting knee. This is not a good injury to have. Not at this juncture. He could have surgery, but that would extend his already 3-4 week injury to possibly much longer. What does this mean? Either Charlie Batch or Dennis Dixon can start.
My arguments for who I think should start are irrelevant considering my status as a peon in the NFL world, but I am going to give them anyway.
Dennis Dixon: He was pretty much groomed to be the backup to Leftwich, he is extremely mobile, has a nice arm, but lacks experience.
Charlie Batch: Has always been Ben's backup, another nice arm, very experienced, but lacks any mobility almost required by our offensive line.
Now before I officially say who I would start, let me remind you that Ben's suspension was reduced on Friday to four games, not six. That means he sits out against Atlanta, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, and Baltimore before the bye week. The only true worry I have, that is if the playcalling is smart, is Baltimore. I think our defense is good enough to keep us in the first three games with minimal offensive support. Baltimore is a very god team this year. I say no matter who starts, we should at least start off 3-1.
Now, onto my pick. I say start them both. If a team is better at stopping the run, start Dixon. If a team is better at stopping the pass, start Batch. That's a definite possibility. I also say cut Leftwich and use either Randle El or Ward as your emergency backup. Use that roster spot for another player we can use elsewhere.
What are your thoughts?
Here We Go Steelers, Here We Go!
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