Ben Roethlisberger blasted the NFL for the Steelers’ rough schedule
The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of four teams facing the challenge of playing three games in 11 days, culminating in a Christmas Day matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger strongly criticized the NFL’s scheduling, arguing that it disregards player safety.
“It’s miserable. It’s a shame that the league does this,” Roethlisberger stated, according to Steelers Depot. “It shows that it’s all about money, and this is a way for them to generate more revenue. It’s unfair to the players. They talk about injuries and making the game safer by changing kickoff rules and preventing hip-drop tackles and concussions, yet they expect players to participate in arguably the most violent game three times in 11 days. There’s simply no time for recovery and rest.”
This demanding stretch began with the Steelers’ 27-13 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles on December 15, followed by a game against the Baltimore Ravens on December 21, which the Steelers lost 34-17. Following that short turnaround, the Steelers will host the top team in the AFC, the Chiefs. The Ravens, Chiefs, and Houston Texans are all facing a similar challenge with the same amount of rest during this period, creating a tough situation for all four teams just before the playoffs.
Steelers’ road to AFC North title is in front of them
Despite their recent losses to the Eagles and Ravens, the Steelers remain in a strong position to secure the AFC North title. They currently hold the tiebreaker over the Ravens, who share the same 10-5 record. Baltimore’s upcoming games are against the Texans and Browns, while the Steelers will face the Chiefs and Bengals.
To win the AFC North, the Steelers must at least match the Ravens’ record. Given Baltimore’s schedule, it’s likely the Steelers will need to win both of their remaining games to clinch the division title, which could be challenging with the Chiefs on the horizon this week. Nonetheless, the Steelers still have the chance to determine their own fate in the division.
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