By Teresa Varley
Steelers.com
The Steelers aired it out in the 27-14 win over the Cleveland Browns at Heinz Field. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger threw for 417 yards and had two 100-yard receivers, with Hines Ward finishing with 159 yards and Santonio Holmes 104 yards.
It was only the second time in team history that they had a 400-yard passer and two 100-yard receivers, the other time being in 2002 when Tommy Maddox threw for 473 yards and Plaxico Burress (253) and Ward (139) were both over 100 yards receiving.
"All in all Ben is playing great football; we're putting it in his hands," said Ward. "When you talk about the elite he's right up there, we open it up for him. He's definitely displaying the talents and abilities to be a great quarterback in this league. We as wide receivers love catching balls, but he's making reads, spreading the ball around."
Despite the praise from Ward, Roethlisberger acknowledge that there is definitely more that the offense can do.
"We played okay. I still think we left some things out there," said Roethlisberger. "And that's a credit to the Browns – they played well on defense. Myself, turning the ball over – I can't do it – and I have to complete more passes."
- *
Linebacker Lawrence Timmons was all over the place against the Browns, sacking Derek Anderson twice and forcing a fumble both times.
"It's always good to have some sacks," said Timmons. "I'll take that all day. The D-line made it easier for me. They picked up everybody else, and I just went in and did my job. That's what happened and I'm thankful for that."
- *
Timmons thought overall the defense did a good job in the win, but there is always room for improvement and they are the first to acknowledge that.
"I think we had a good day," said Timmons. "We're always willing to get better. We never settle for anything – that's just the way we go about it. We just take one day at a time and try to play the best we can."
- *
The annual Steelers food drive to benefit the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank will be held at the Steelers-Vikings at Heinz Field this Sunday.
- *
Giant Eagle will match donations on a pound-for-pound basis.
Food Bank volunteers will be stationed at Heinz Field gates to collect non-perishable food items to help the needy in our area.
You can also donate online to the virtual food drive at by visiting **Steelers Virtual Food Drive**.