Tim Benz and Mark Madden return for this week’s edition of “Unfiltered” on TribLive’s Facebook page to talk about Ben Roethlisberger’s conditioning, the Steelers’ spin game, the likely NFL 17-game schedule, the Penguins’ recent play and more.
As the topic of Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s commitment to conditioning was again taken up in the national media, Benz and Madden add their take.
Madden says that “the media, especially the national media will always find a way to blame Ben. No matter what goes wrong with the Steelers, no matter how flawed the culture is, no matter how far the coach is past his sell-by date, no matter how rotten the offensive line is, they will always find a way to blame Ben Roethlisberger.”
But Madden adds that he doesn’t think Roethlisberger has ever been in great shape. “He is what he is. He’s a 39-year-old guy with a bad offensive line and bum knees. At one time his greatest was based on his escapability. Now, that escapability is not there anymore, and it is probably a bad idea to bring him back.”
Benz think that other factors, like bad knees and general body-type and a suspect offense line, are the reasons for any drop-off in play.
The guys also talk how Steelers fix the running game — if they can? And how recent Steelers news announcements, including the signing of Tyson Alualu and release of Steven Nelson, have been a spin game by the team. Also, will the Steelers have another non-losing season with the new 17-game schedule the NFL is about to put in place?
The guys also talk hockey, including the controversy around the firing of NHL referee Tim Peel.
And the Penguins are playing well right now, holding down third place in the East. Madden says they could split their games the rest of the season and still make the playoffs. Also, what happens when Evgeni Malkin returns from injury?
Benz and Madden also answer viewers comments and questions.
Watch the show here:
