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There were a lot of sad faces on the Pittsburgh Steelers sideline on Sunday night, but maybe no one was more moved than Ben Roethlisberger.
Roethlisberger, however, was not upset just because they fell to the Cleveland Browns 48-37 in a brutal fashion in their AFC wild card game.
He was sad because he felt he had let down longtime center Maurkice Pouncey.
“I’m sorry, my brother. You’re the only reason I wanted to do this, man, ”Roethlisberger tearfully told Pouncey on the sidelines after the game, via NFL Films. “Oh, I feel worse for you than I do. I hate it, man.
Although Roethlisberger threw for 501 yards in Sunday’s loss, he also threw four interceptions and led the Steelers to a quick 28-0 hole. He and Pouncey also struggled immediately, trying to fumble their first shot which was retrieved in the end zone for a Browns touchdown.
Pouncey and Roethlisberger plan to retire
Neither Roethlisberger nor Pouncey have announced their retirement, but both are nearing the end of their careers.
Based on their emotional conversation on the bench on Sunday night, it could be right around the corner.
Pouncey completed his 10th league season, which he spent slamming the ball to Roethlisberger. Reports from Pittsburgh and his conversation with Roethlisberger before leaving the field certainly give the impression that Pouncey will be leaving the game soon.
To be clear, I didn’t point out that @MaurkicePouncey officially retires. I reported that it certainly looked like he was retiring. He will make this official announcement on his own. It was in my 10 thoughts from yesterday’s game.
– Dale Lolley (@dlolley_pgh) January 11, 2021
Roethlisberger, 38, has been in Pittsburgh since 2004. He said after the loss he was not yet ready to make a decision about his future.
“It’s going to start between me and God, a lot of prayers. Lots of discussions with my family, discussions, decisions. I still have a year left on my contract, “he said.” I hope the Steelers want me to come back, if that’s the way to go. There will be a lot of discussion. But now is not the time.
“This loss is fresh. It is right in our hearts and minds right now. It will be for a while.”
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