Some quarterbacks impress you with their talent. Others do so with their grit.

A couple of ultra-gritty quarterbacks are making their presence felt today.

One is Ben Roethlisberger, who has been pounded all season yet somehow manages to continue to stay on the field and make big plays. It looked as if the Steelers might lose him early in the game today at Tennessee after he took a huge hit that resulted in a fumble near the Titans’ goal line. But Big Ben bounced back and has been able to be a difference-maker in a game with home-field advantage through the AFC playoffs on the line.

Another quarterback showing true grit is Jeff Garcia. It was uncertain whether he would even play against San Diego today because of a strained calf muscle. He was listed as questionable, yet Garcia made the start. Not only that, he has withstood some big hits and even blasted his way into the end zone on a seven-yard touchdown run.

You can knock these two for not being the most gifted of passers. You can cite other quarterbacks who are more fluid athletes.

But you aren’t going to find two tougher players at the position — or two who play with more drive and determination — than Roethlisberger and Garcia.

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