Ben’s Second Strike

In this day and age of the NFL, players who are successful greatly reap the rewards of their hard work. There was a time when players had jobs in the offseason to sustain themselves and their families.  Today, most players make more money that most Americans will ever see in ten lifetimes. With the success and privilege comes corruption, and we have seen that time and time again.

The recent activity of Ben Roethlisberger, in my opinion, is an example of the reckless swagger plays may exhibit.  Roethlisberger is free to drink and party wherever he pleases.  He may go about his own business with any person he so wishes to do so with. However, regardless of who he is and what he has accomplished, he must conduct himself in a manner with class. It was made clear that Roethlisberger will not be charged, but how often will this happen and each time he is cleared. Where these is smoke there is fire, or at least there was.

Earlier this week Ben Roethlisberger made his first public appearance and statement. It felt scripted, and did not have the makings of a sincere apology.  More like a required appearance to appease to who handle him and employ him. Although he did speak behind an official Pittsburgh Steelers lectern, I am confident that the Steelers are not amused by his actions. Earlier this week, the Steelers traded star wide receiver Santonio Holmes to the New York Jets for a bag of chips.  All Holmes has is a slightly marred history of domestic violence and just recently was accused of throwing a glass at woman’s face in Orlando, FL.

So do I think Roethlisberger should be punished? Yes of course.  I think, and so should any moral loving Steelers fan, that Roethlisberger should be suspended. Yes, the gavel must be dropped and stand must be made.  The Steelers are one of the league’s classiest franchises, perhaps even the classiest.  The way they handle business is very professional, and allowing Roethlisberger to move one without some form of punishment would be a mistake.  The AFC North already has the Bengals.

Tags: Ben Roethlisberger, Santonio Holmes