Ben Roethlisberger’s Bombshell: Has Big Ben Lost Faith in the Steelers Coaching Staff?
The Pittsburgh Steelers are reeling. After a disheartening 31-28 loss to the Chicago Bears, their 2025 season record slipped to a concerning 6-5, and they surrendered their lead in the AFC North. But it wasn’t just the narrow defeat that sent shockwaves through the fan base; it was the candid, scathing assessment from a Steelers legend: Ben Roethlisberger.
The former Super Bowl-winning quarterback, affectionately known as “Big Ben,” didn’t mince words on his popular “Footbahlin” podcast. His frustration boiled over, not just at the Week 12 collapse, but at a deeper, more systemic issue: the coaching staff’s apparent inability to make crucial in-game adjustments. With starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers sidelined by injury and Mason Rudolph struggling under center, the spotlight on coaching decisions has never been brighter.
Big Ben’s Blistering Critique: “Lack Thereof” Halftime Adjustments
“Yes, and our halftime adjustments, or lack thereof,” Roethlisberger stated, his voice laced with concern. He continued, expressing a sentiment many fans echo: “I feel like if we go into a half up 10 or less like we are gonna be in trouble because I am nervous about our halftime adjustments, or lack thereof or whatever. Like we need to be up 20 something at halftime.”
These are powerful words from a player who spent nearly two decades navigating the NFL trenches, often relying on astute coaching to turn the tide of a game. While Head Coach Mike Tomlin, Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, and Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin weren’t called out by name, the implication was clear. The responsibility for strategic shifts during the break—or the failure to implement them—rests squarely on their shoulders.
The Disconnect Between Planning and Execution
The loss to the Bears was a microcosm of this season’s struggles. The Steelers entered halftime with a 21-17 lead, only to watch it evaporate in the second half. This pattern of starting strong but fading is a concerning trend that Ben Roethlisberger highlighted. It suggests a fundamental disconnect:
- Inadequate Halftime Adjustments: The coaching staff seemingly failed to counter the Bears’ second-half strategy.
- Player Adaptation Issues: While players on the offensive line and at skill positions are expected to adapt, the lack of clear guidance from the sidelines compounded their challenges.
- Erosion of Confidence: Roethlisberger’s public statement reflects a growing unease that could permeate the locker room.
Beyond the Quarterback: A Broader Crisis for the Steelers
While the absence of Aaron Rodgers and the struggles of Mason Rudolph are undeniable factors, Roethlisberger’s criticism extends beyond the quarterback position. It points to a broader systemic issue within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization. For a franchise built on discipline, resilience, and precise execution, these struggles are particularly alarming.
The legendary quarterback’s remarks serve as a significant warning sign for the team’s morale and overall culture. In high-pressure environments like the NFL, players look to their coaches for direction and confidence. Any perception that this guidance is lacking, especially during critical moments like halftime, can undermine team cohesion and performance.
The Road Ahead: Playoff Hopes and Coaching Scrutiny
With the Steelers now at 6-5, every remaining game carries immense weight. Their grip on the AFC North is tenuous, and the playoff race is tightening. The faith of fans, long unwavering, is being tested. Roethlisberger’s public voicing of his concerns only intensifies the scrutiny on the coaching staff.
How Mike Tomlin and his crew respond in the coming weeks will undoubtedly define the Steelers’ season. Can they implement the decisive action and strategic clarity that Roethlisberger believes are missing? Or will the “lack thereof” continue to plague a storied franchise?
What are your thoughts, #SteelerNation? Do you share Ben Roethlisberger’s concerns about the coaching staff?
