OAKLAND - Pittsburgh Steelers Coach Bill Cowher said he was giving strong consideration to starting back-up quarterback Barabbas against the Denver Broncos next week. The Steelers signed Barabbas last week as insurance against additional injury to starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Barabbas is a much-traveled journeyman quarterback and petty thief from Southern Judea who has long been a favorite of hostile mobs.
Roethlisberger, injured in a motorcycle accident last spring, underwent an emergency appendectomy prior to the start of the season, and sustained a concussion in Atlanta last week. Additionally, sources say Roethlisberger has been experiencing anxiety attacks since learning that Iran is continuing its program of uranium enrichment. All of these factors have contributed to Roethlisberger's poor performance.
Cowher said he has heard the rumbling from the crowd. "I heard their hosannas when Ben entered the game," he said. "And I heard their cries to crucify Him, crucify Him, after He threw his fourth interception."
The coach also said he was aware of the "We want Barabbas" chants from a large contingent of Steelers fans sitting directly behind the Steeler's bench. Cowher admitted he thought about making the switch, but ultimately decided against it. "Barabbas isn’t familiar enough with the playbook yet," said Cowher. "Next week might be a different story."
When told of Cowher’s comments, Roethlisberger was defiant, but compassionate. "I forgive Coach. He knows not what he says," said Roethlisberger. Big Ben added that it would be unwise to consider the Steelers playoff chances dead. "We’ll be back," he promised.
