PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – We've heard to much and seen Ben Roethlisberger's competitiveness, but his offensive coordinator says there is another specific characteristic about him that really stands out.
Criticized for taking Wednesday's off or a belief his practice habits aren't like other quarterbacks. Matt Canada would disagree and believes that's what separates the 39-year-old from others.
"The biggest thing is his diligence," Canada said Thursday. "He works on accuracy in practice and finding places to put the football. This is a game of inches as we all know. Great players on both sides all the time. Ben's ability to put balls in specific spots is really, really impressive."
Corner Joe Haden said on Wednesday there were many times when playing for the Browns against the Steelers where he felt he had great coverage on Antonio Brown, yet Roethlisberger was able to find the smallest window to put the football in. That all started with Roethlisberger in practice, drills where he would throw to unusual spots to try and simulate game situations and not just pitch and catch.
Canada said Roethlisberger has come to work for him every day. Not just worked, but worked hard. He's been receptive to new ideas, Roethlisberger wore a play sleeve on his wrist during camp to figure out the new terminology. He even had his kids help him with flash cards.
"I think we got a great relationship," Canada said. "Obviously we have a two-year relationship, time and experience build that over and he's had that with other guys a lot longer. I think we've worked very well together. Everything we talk about, everything we do, there is a conversation."
It's the only starting quarterback he's worked with at the pro level. Another area that impressed Canada is Roethlisberger's ability to work with others, especially the younger players. Often during camp Ben spent time with Najee Harris teaching him about different plays or route running or general advice.
"We've talked about how quickly Pat (Freiermuth) has progressed to become that guy," Canada said. "That happened in June, July and August working with Ben on things that aren't just running routes and making throws. That's something I've seen, watched and been impressed by."
"How many Hall of Fame quarterbacks are there, I can only speak to the one I've been around. I think his ability to do that has been so impressive."
Canada didn't want to take away from the team opportunity in front of them against the Browns. Roethlisberger didn't either as he said all signs point to Monday night being his final game at Heinz Field. Both hope to extend their time together further into January.
"Certainly been very fortunate to work with a tremendous player," Canada said. "We are not ready to be done yet."
