Steelers' Mason Rudolph Will Try To Eliminate The Mistakes Mitch Trubisky Couldn’t: “Don’t Try To Be The Hero”

The Pittsburgh Steelers have faced offensive struggles throughout the 2023 season, leaving fans sometimes feeling like watching their team play is a chore. Backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky stepped into the spotlight when starter Kenny Pickett was sidelined due to injury during the game against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 13.

However, it hasn't been smooth sailing with Trubisky at the helm. In his appearances for the Steelers this season, Trubisky has yet to secure a win. He started two games and filled in for three others, all of which ended in losses for Pittsburgh. His statistics include 632 passing yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions—numbers that fall short of justifying his status as one of the highest-paid backup quarterbacks in the NFL.

Steelers QB Mitch Trubisky Gets Benched

Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin reached a breaking point with Trubisky and decided to bench him during the later stages of the disastrous game against the Indianapolis Colts. Although Mason Rudolph entered the game, it was already well out of reach. Still, Steelers fans breathed a sigh of relief at not having to watch Trubisky lead another drive. Rudolph hadn't thrown a pass in the NFL since 2021, prior to that game against the Colts.

During his press conference on Monday, Tomlin announced that Trubisky would no longer be the starter and that Rudolph would have the opportunity to start at quarterback if Pickett remains unavailable against the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday.

Rudolph addressed members of the media on Tuesday, sharing his thoughts on what he aims to bring to the team as its starting quarterback, should Pickett be unable to play.

"I think we want to obviously move the chains and score points. But, that doesn't mean you have to be foolish with the football. That's it. Find the open guy and take what the defense gives you. Check the ball down when you need to, and don't try to be the hero. And I think when you think like that, you don't put too much pressure on yourself and play smooth."

Rudolph refrained from taking direct shots at Trubisky, but it's worth noting that his comments address the issues that Steelers fans observed in Trubisky's performance. Trubisky often exhibited poor decision-making, such as attempting deep passes on crucial fourth downs instead of aiming for first downs, and taking unnecessary risks that resulted in costly mistakes. He also displayed carelessness with the football, missing open receivers with inaccurate throws and failing to generate sufficient offense to win games that were within reach.

Rudolph's approach emphasizes playing smart, taking what the defense offers, protecting the football, and making calculated decisions. He aims to play a more relaxed style of football, learning from past experiences and mistakes.

Rudolph hasn't played in high stakes situations as of late. However, at 28 years old, and having been a part of the Steelers organization since his selection in the 2018 NFL Draft, he is determined to capitalize on this opportunity. In doing so, he aims to validate the faith that Steelers fans have shown in him, reinforcing their calls for his inclusion instead of persisting with a steadfast commitment to Trubisky.

Pickett participated in practice on Tuesday, where he was seen stretching and getting his ankle taped. While this development raises hopes of his return, his availability against the Bengals remains up in the air. Pickett expressed optimism about his chances of playing. If he is unable to take the field, Steelers fans will have the opportunity to see Rudolph back in action against the Bengals, with Pickett likely returning for the game against the Seattle Seahawks. The Steelers playoff hopes aren't done just yet, but they are on immense life support. 

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