Today, the NFL brought the hammer down on the head of  Ben Roethlisberger -- suspended  for six games  without pay-- "for violating the league's personal-conduct policy," and ordered him to undergo a "comprehensive behavioral evaluation by medical professionals."  A least he doesn't have to see a quack! Of course, if he is a good boy, the suspension could be reduced to four games! A savings in lots of dough. But seeing the "medical professional" is what the NFL is looking for to determine good behavior. The NFL wants to see a 'behavioral evaluation," report, until then Ben Roethlisberger will not be allowed to attend any Steelers offseason activity.

We're trying to affect behavior here," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who has a reputation for disciplining players who run afoul of league policies. "We're trying to make people understand their responsibility, live up to that standard, avoid making mistakes and use good judgment.We're trying to have early intervention so that we can avoid people having criminal activity, deal with the issues and try to get them straightened out so they can lead productive lives. And if they can be great NFL players, terrific.

I can see the flag waving and the cub scouts on the march.

What does Steelers Ben Roethlisberger suspension mean? Well, Vegas has lowered the odds that the Steelers will win the' Super Bowl? He's not the golden boy in Pittsburgh. ESPN is out with the rumor that the team is shopping him around. talking to clubs with high picks in the upcoming draft. The six game suspension could cost him $2.8 million in salary! That a big hit. And endorsement money might be tight or nonexistence for a while. A wild night on the town was very expensive.