Jacksonville Jaguars road success vs. Ben Roethlisberger shows who should really want this rematch
By Billy Long
Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has wanted this upcoming rematch with the Jaguars, but the stats show a different viewpoint.
It’s the middle of the week, and by now you have surly heard all about Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger emphasizing how much he has wanted this rematch with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the divisional round of the playoffs. After the beat down by the Jaguars in the 30-9 win in week five, it’s understandable for Big Ben to want a chance at redemption.
But if you take a glance at the series history between the two teams at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh since the arrival of Roethlisberger, it sheds light on the team who should really be licking their chops about the second act in the 2017 season.
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In the four meetings in Pittsburgh against the Steelers in games that Big Ben has played, Jacksonville is 3-1. The Jaguars have feasted in Pittsburgh, and especially on Roethlisberger. In those games, Big Ben has thrown six touchdowns, with eight interceptions, including the five pick day back in October. Jacksonville has made Heinz Field their home away from home.
So with all this talk about Big Ben wanting this rematch, it’s the Jaguars who should be thrilled at the opportunity to continue to own Roethlisberger and the Steelers in their stadium. And the players know it:
Jalen on Big Ben comments: I would want to play us again too if I were him. We had five picks and after the game I think he was contemplating retirement. @1010XL @Jaguars #Jaguars
— Brent Martineau (@BrentASJax) January 8, 2018
Jaguars CB A.J. Bouye on Big Ben wanting rematch: "Be careful what you wish for. This is what he wanted. This is what he's going to get."
— Mark Long (@APMarkLong) January 8, 2018
Notice the two quotes are from the Jaguars’ cornerback duo, as expected. After five interceptions in round one, there is no reason for Jacksonville to be afraid of walking back into enemy territory for the next matchup. The Jaguars are not scared of a return to Pittsburgh, and history shows that. In fact, Jacksonville is looking to do what they themselves are the only team to ever accomplish, which is beating the Steelers in their own stadium twice in the same season. Jacksonville did it in the 2007 playoff season, and will have the chance on Sunday to repeat history.
Ben Roethlisberger wanted no other team in the divisional round than the Jacksonville Jaguars. A.J. Bouye said it best, careful what you wish for, Ben. The Jaguars are coming, defense included.