Steelers Consider Rookie Will Howard as Rodgers Remains Out
In the absence of Aaron Rodgers, the Pittsburgh Steelers face a pivotal decision regarding their quarterback situation. With Week 13 approaching and a matchup against the Buffalo Bills looming, the Steelers may have no choice but to turn to rookie Will Howard if Rodgers is unable to play.
Rudolph’s Performance Under Scrutiny
Mason Rudolph’s outing in the Steelers’ recent 31-28 loss to the Chicago Bears was less than inspiring. Although he completed 24 of 31 passes for 171 yards, the statistics do not fully capture the weight of his performance. Rudolph managed only one touchdown and coughed up the ball twice, failing to deliver when it mattered most.
The game began poorly for him. His first pass attempt was intercepted by Na’Shon Wright while he aimed for a deep connection with DK Metcalf. This early mistake set the tone, as the Bears quickly capitalized on the turnover to take a 7-0 lead. Despite rallying to orchestrate two touchdown drives in the first half, Rudolph’s night took another turn for the worse. Late in the third quarter, with the Steelers trailing 24-21, he was strip-sacked—a critical misplay that allowed the Bears to extend their lead to 31-21.
The Final Drive and Missed Opportunities
With the game hanging in the balance, Pittsburgh found themselves with the ball at their own 20-yard line, trailing by three points and just 1:29 left on the clock. Rudolph began to make headway, completing a 14-yard pass to Pat Freiermuth, followed by two more completions that moved the team near midfield. However, the closing moments were anticlimactic. Two of his last three passes fell incomplete, and the Bears’ defense stood firm, sealing their victory.
Rookie Potential with Will Howard
As the Steelers weigh their options, Will Howard’s potential as a game-changing quarterback cannot be overlooked. Activated off the reserve/injured list two weeks ago, Howard has been waiting for an opportunity to step onto the field. Given Rudolph’s struggles and the critical nature of the upcoming game against Buffalo, the Steelers must consider whether to hand the reins to their promising rookie.
With the season heading into its crucial stages, the decision to start Howard could mark a significant turning point for Pittsburgh. The stakes are high, and if Rodgers remains sidelined, the Steelers may need to embrace change to find a path to victory.
