Roethlisberger, Kizer show mutual appreciation after Steelers' victory

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger out-dueled his Cleveland Browns counterpart, DeShone Kizer, but was sufficiently impressed by the rookie's performance Sunday.

Roethlisberger and Kizer exchanged a warm embrace following the Steelers' 21-18 victory, with the two players battling for AFC North supremacy.

"You're a helluva player. Wish you all the best, stay healthy … we'll see you again soon," Roethlisberger told Kizer.

In his professional debut, Kizer went 20-of-30 for 222 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Roethlisberger finished 24-of-36 for 263 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

Kizer also raved about Roethlisberger, a player he grew up admiring.

"When you first get out there and see him warming up, it’s a surreal moment," Kizer said of Roethlisberger via Jordan Strack of WTOL-11.

Kizer also drew rave reviews from his teammates.

"The future is bright for DeShone (Kizer)," Browns All-Pro left tackle Joe Thomas said to Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal.

Sunday wasn't quite a changing of the guard, but the two divisional foes are in for a fierce competition for the foreseeable future.