Roethlisberger, Rodgers Adept at Dodging Adversity
Dennis Dillon - SportingNews.com
Feb 01, 2011
DALLAS -- The two Super Bowl XLV quarterbacks did not get here by strolling down Easy Street. Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers and Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger each had major obstacles to overcome -- some of their own doing -- on their way to this moment.
"Inner peace is a great thing when you have it," said Roethlisberger, who was suspended for four games this season after violating the league's personal conduct policy.
A look at the adversity each QB faced:
ROETHLISBERGER
Public shame. Roethlisberger brought this on himself by his interactions with a college co-ed that led to sexual assault charges. Not only did he have to sit out the first four games, he also had to restore his reputation with fans and teammates.
"I'm just thankful my teammates are who they are," Roethlisberger said Monday, "and I'm really appreciative of it."
Offensive changes. Roethlisberger lost his go-to receiver during the offseason when Santonio Holmes was traded to the Jets. Roethlisberger had to forge a stronger rapport with second-year wideout Mike Wallace and then break in rookies Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders.
RODGERS
Sitting and waiting. Although he was a 2005 first-round pick, Rodgers had to be patient and wait three years for Brett Favre to complete his legendary career in Green Bay. How did Rodgers persevere?
He tried to surround himself with good people -- not just family and close friends but also confidants who could provide perspective and advice. He also was fortunate to have coaches who believed his time would come.
"I just think I tried to stay true to my character throughout that time," Rodgers said, "and was fortunate to be part of an organization that backed me and believed in me and giving me an opportunity."
Offensive changes. Among the Packers' myriad injuries this season were three key players on offense: running back Ryan Grant, who was lost in Week 1; tight end Jermichael Finley, who went down in early October; and right tackle Mark Tauscher, who was placed on injured reserve in November.
Those losses put greater stress and responsibility on Rodgers, but he showed he was up to the task.
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