The Pittsburgh Steelers season seemed to be a sinking ship prior to their Week 16 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. While there were individual players that have never lost their killer instinct, all three phases of the game were struggling. Starting quarterback Kenny Pickett was injured a few weeks ago, but frankly, has been struggling most of the season. Third-string quarterback Mason Rudolph led the team (no sleigh jokes here) decisively and pulled off a Christmas miracle. The Steelers beat the Bengals 34-11 to remain in the hunt for a playoff spot.
JORDAN SCHOFIELD / STEELERNATION (TWITTER / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers quarterbacks Kenny Pickett (8) and Mason Rudolph have both been pegged at times as the replacement for Ben Roethlisberger.
It wasn't just Rudolph's play that was outstanding. The whole team, including the battered, patched-up defense, pulled together to get the job done. Wide receiver George Pickens, who has come under fire recently for his immature behavior, played like a dream. Pickens had four huge catches for 195 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Najee Harris and receiver Calvin Austin III were each able to rush touchdowns.
The offensive line, which looked more like Swiss cheese than a professional football team the past few weeks, was able to block effectively and provide pass protection. This allowed Rudolph to stage a win like he's never done before. This had to feel like vindication for Rudolph, although he is too much of a class act to ever admit it.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens can bring energy to the field but it needs to be contained and used in the right way for 2023 to be successful
Rudolph, who was drafted by Pittsburgh in 2018, was the backup to future Hall of Famer Ben Roethlisberger for the majority of his career. He battled for a starting job against Pickett and Mitch Trubisky after Roethlisberger retired, but lost. Rudolph hasn't played in two years. He was asked today by the media about how it feels to finally play. At some point, Rudolph had to be getting insecure about his spot on the team.
"Yeah I think you never know. You have confidence in yourself as a player but you're kinda thinking 'Am I going to jump into the commercial real estate realm next year or [be] playing quarterback?' Absolutely those thoughts cross your mind," said Rudolph
He said that he had some nerves coming into the game. He may have had some sleepless nights, but no worse than other games.
"No, just kinda the jitters. Like training camp the last few years before the first day you kinda get wound up, you get excited. It's more excitement than nerves like I get to take all the throws today."
Rudolph completed 17 out of 27 attempts for 290 yards and two touchdowns. Head Coach Mike Tomlin would not offer a firm response as to who will be under center for their remaining two regular season games.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation.com (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin
Rudolph also said that he has not been given any information. However, his gameplay today was a decisive victory. While Pickett is expected to be able to return soon, the Steelers offense has not put up over 30 points in a game since November of 2022.
Steelers Still Have Playoff Aspirations
The Steelers are now 8-7 and are in third place in the AFC North. They will play the Baltimore Ravens again in the final game of the season. The Steelers beat the Ravens during their meeting earlier in 2023. The Seattle Seahawks are up next on New Year's Eve.
Cincinnati was also hoping to make it to the playoffs and fought hard after franchise quarterback Joe Burrow was injured earlier this year. Backup Jake Browning has played well, but lost to Pittsburgh twice this season.
Akron Beacon Journal
Steelers Myles Jack makes a tackle against the Browns in 2022.
The Steelers experienced more losses than just Pickett. The majority of the linebacking corps went out with season-ending injuries but the returning Myles Jack was able to step up big and help the team today as was journeyman Mykal Walker.
What did you think about the Steelers win on Saturday? How did you feel about Rudolph's game play? Does it change who you think should start next week if Pickett is available? Does it change how you feel about retaining Rudolph for next season? Do you think the Steelers will make the playoffs? Tell us what you think! Click to comment below.
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