Roethlisberger throws for five TDs in romp

Ben Roethlisberger’s PITTSBURGH — first pass went for a touchdown. His last did the same. And in between the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback and his red-hot team put together systematic 52-21 dismantling of Carolina on Thursday night that left little doubt about their depth and their talent regardless of whether Le’Veon Bell ever shows up for work or not.

Ten different Steelers touched the ball on offense. Six of them scored. None of them were named Bell.

“Really big performance against a really good team on a short week so there is a lot to be proud of,” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. “But we are probably not that good.”

Maybe not, but Pittsburgh (6-2-1) looked every bit the part of legitimate contender in the AFC, perhaps for the first time this season.

Roethlisberger completed 22 of 25 passes for 328 yards and five touchdowns while posting a perfect quarterback rating of 158.3.

James Conner, who has filled in capably during Bell’s self-imposed sabbatical, ran for 65 yards and a score before being evaluated for a concussion late.

Antonio Brown added eight receptions for 96 yards

“This is what we expected,” Roethlisberger said.

Bell has until Tuesday to sign a contract if he wants to play this season.