Going into the Monday Night matinee between the Washington Football Team and Pittsburgh Steelers, the FOX TV crew was doing what they could to try and build interest in the matchup. It was understandable, with not many people liley to tune into a game between an 11-0 powerhouse facing a 4-7 pushover in the worst division in the NFL. However, it was curious that they touted the battle between Alex Smith and Ben Roethlisberger, using both players’ candidacy for the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.
We all know what Smith went through; 17 surgeries after almost losing his leg and his life two years ago, battling back to walk, run, and play football when nobody said it was possible. Big Ben underwent surgery on his elbow last year that reattached three torn flexor tendons. Sure, a serious injury, but are we really comparing the two?
Well, nonetheless, Alex Smith seemingly sealed the CPOY award on Monday night with his victory that seemed almost as monumental in the award running as it was on the field. Smith threw for 296 yards and 1 TD, leading his team back from 14 points down and getting the upset victory on the road, handing the Steelers their first loss of the season and Washington’s first win in the rivalry since 1991.
Roethlisberger had 305 yards, 2 TDs and 1 INT in the game.
In our opinion, Smith won the award the very first time he stepped onto the field this season. That was enough for us, but it apparently wasn’t enough for others. Now, it should be zero question as to who the winner is.
Alex Smith is your Comeback Player of the Year. It’s no longer up for debate.
