As someone who has won two Super Bowls and played in three, Ben Roethlisberger is used to the spotlight. He also knows what it’s like to be the center of attention from his controversial sexual assault allegations. That’s why he can understand how difficult things must be for Tim Tebow, who is constantly discussed by fans and the media.
“It’s got to be tough,” Roethlisberger said during a conference call Wednesday with the Denver media. “Every time you turn it on, you see something about Tebow. I can only imagine what it’s like for his teammates. Just watching today, it’s the Steelers versus Tim Tebow. No, it’s the Steelers versus the Broncos, so I can only imagine what it’s like for him with all the eyes and the attention on him and the pressure. It can’t be fun. I feel for him a little bit.”
“I don’t think Tim’s really calling ESPN and asking them to talk about him,” Roethlisberger said. “I would assume his teammates understand it. It’s a tough thing. It’s the position we play.”
Roethlisberger’s words represent a key observation. Many people confuse their dislike of Tim Tebow with their dislike of all the coverage he receives. I think it’s easier to dislike the latter than the former. Big Ben also touches on an issue that probably exists in the Broncos locker room: resentment. When Denver’s defense was dominating during the team’s winning streak this season, they were an afterthought for most people. You have to figure at least some players got sick of the coverage quickly. We at least know of one player who seemed to.
