Ben Roethlisberger’s soul-baring comments have the feel of a man looking himself hard in the mirror, examining every scar, recognizing that some were self-inflicted, but accepting the long journey and the many mistakes it to get here. He’s not only still standing, but the better for it. Roethlisberger sounds like he’s stepping up for one last stand – a career comeback that could become legend. Just maybe, another championship. The Steelers’ 7th – the same number emblazoned across Big Ben’s broad chest. Wouldn’t that be poetic, Pittsburgh? After all, who wants perfect heroes? Perfect people don’t have to scratch, claw and strive. In Pittsburgh, we like the scratchers. Ben bears all the scars, all the dents and dings, the knocks to his reputation. But he’s still standing. He’s owned up to it all. Now he’s ready to move on. I respect the hell out of that. As a football fan, I just have a feeling this season could be special because Big Ben now knows just how special every down really is.

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