Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher Cowher bel...

Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher Cowher believes the sexual assault investigation that led to a four- to six-game suspension for Roethlisberger was a "slap in the face" that has led to some much-needed maturity.

In an interview on Tuesday, Cowher described how Ben Roethlisberger used to respond to advice about his off-field behavior. " 'But we're winning games. We're winning championships,' " Cowher recounted. " 'What do you mean? Isn't that what we're here to do?' "

"Yeah," Cowher said, "but there's more to it than that."

"It's the whole body of work. It's you as a person, what kind of legacy you want to leave," he added. "I really think he understands that now

Roethlisberger has said Cowher was one of the people he turned to for advice as he tried to get his life back on track, and that the two are now closer than ever before.

"Just like with your children, sometimes when you say things to them: 'Yeah, right.' They have all the answers," Cowher said. "All of a sudden, the older they get: 'Maybe he's right about that.'

"I think Ben has had a chance to reflect a lot. I think he's a good person. While it's unfortunate, I think it may be an eye-opener to him, kind of a slap in the face."