With their backs against the wall and needing a spark, the Pittsburgh Steelers turned to veteran backup quarterback Mason Rudolph for Week 16 against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium.
It was rather fitting that two days before Christmas, Rudolph was called on to try and save the Steelers’ season, too.
Did he ever?
Rudolph, making his first start since the 2021 season against the Detroit Lions at then-Heinz Field, had a great game against the Bengals in a 34-11 win, completing 17-of-27 passes for 290 yards and two touchdowns. He hooked up three times with second-year receiver George Pickens on explosive plays, giving the Steelers’ offense a much-needed spark that led to a rather convincing win at home over an AFC North opponent.