After Sunday’s game against the Bengals, the question on every Steelers fan’s mind is whether
Mason Rudolph should get a shot over Aaron Rodgers. Rudolph stepped in and showed he can
get the job done, completing 12 of 16 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown, while also
engineering two scoring drives and converting five of six third-down passes. He played more
accurately and decisively than Rodgers has in recent weeks, stayed calm in the pocket under
pressure, and didn’t shy away from taking hits.
It may not be conceivable for a career backup to get a nod over a first-ballot Hall of Famer after
just one half of football, but Rodgers’ performance had been trending down for several weeks.
Rudolph also has the advantage of familiarity with his teammates, having built chemistry with
receivers during offseason workouts. Coach Mike Tomlin praised him for stepping up when the
team needed him, and he delivered again.
While it’s highly unlikely Rudolph starts over a healthy Rodgers, and Rodgers’ clutch experience
will be invaluable in December and January, Rudolph DID look better than Rodgers in a
vacuum. Rodgers, however, still brings elite arm talent and experience. His career
achievements and season-long stats, including 18 passing touchdowns, give him a strong
resume.
Rudolph’s hot hand makes a strong case for him starting, especially if Rodgers isn’t 100
percent, but Rodgers’ experience and overall track record mean he remains the team’s main
guy when healthy. Fans could see some tough decisions ahead, depending on how Rodgers
recovers.