Steelers Legend Ben Roethlisberger Sparks Crazy Intense Debate Involving Ravens' Lamar Jackson

When Pittsburgh Steelers fans think about Ben Roethlisberger, one of the last quarterbacks from the modern NFL era they'd likely compare him to is Baltimore Ravens two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson. The two quarterbacks play the game in completely different ways. Roethlisberger built his soon-to-be Hall of Fame-caliber career with his toughness in the pocket, ability to extend plays, and a strong arm, while Jackson has revolutionized the position with his elite athleticism and game-changing rushing ability.

Still, when you really think about it, there are more similarities than many fans may initially realize. Both quarterbacks spent years as among the NFL's elite at their position. They were franchise cornerstones, perennial playoff contenders, and players opposing defenses had to game-plan around every single week. They even squared off against one another during the latter stages of Roethlisberger's career, adding another chapter to one of the NFL's best rivalries.

Not many within Steeler Nation expected the two to become the subject of a serious debate, but that's exactly what happened when NFL insider Aditi Kinkhabwala joined 93.7 The Fan. During her appearance, she was asked an interesting question regarding Jackson and Roethlisberger that was originally brought up by show host Andrew Fillipponi. During the show, Fillipponi explained that he was essentially laughed out of the room by some of his NFL-connected friends after bringing up the debate. The discussion centered around a simple but fascinating question: who has the better career resume, Jackson or Roethlisberger?

"This may not be popular, but to me, football is a team game and football is about winning," Kinkhabwala said. "If you can help your team win, then that is significant. Now Lamar has, in many ways, revolutionized and changed the position of quarterback. Lamar is absolutely one of the most dynamic players I have seen in my 17 years [covering the sport]. Lamar does carry his team, but Lamar hasn’t won yet."

It's a debate that becomes more interesting the deeper you look into it. Jackson already owns two league MVP awards, something Roethlisberger never accomplished during his decorated career. 

However, Roethlisberger's resume includes two Super Bowl championships and three Super Bowl appearances, accomplishments that continue to carry significant weight when discussing all-time quarterback greatness.

"It takes me back to a conversation I had with Kurt Warner a few years ago about Ben Roethlisberger and Eli Manning and the Hall of Fame," Kinkhabwala said. "Neither of them set the world on fire with their stats, neither of them was an MVP the way we talk about Lamar Jackson. They both won two Super Bowls... the other one didn't... and Kurt said to me, there is an eye test. Which one looks more like a Hall of Famer, and it's Ben."

That contrast is what makes the debate so compelling. On one side, you have one of the most accomplished postseason quarterbacks of his generation. 

On the other, you have a two-time MVP who is still building his legacy and has plenty of time left to add to an already impressive resume. Depending on what a person values more, individual accolades or team success, the answer could vary significantly.

Steelers' Roethlisberger Goes Viral For Claiming Funeral In Baltimore

Roethlisberger has never been shy about sharing his opinion, especially on all things regarding the Steelers, the NFL, and of course the AFC North. While speaking about the changes in Baltimore, Roethlisberger predicted their Super Bowl window is over. 

While Steelers fans will debate Roethlisberger’s legacy versus Jackson’s ongoing one, one thing is clear: both Baltimore and the Steelers are going to look much different in 2026 and beyond.

Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X (@anthonyghalkias) and consider following for more Steelers-related content and discussion. 

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