Sounds Like QB Devlin Hodges Has Short Leash With Backup Mason Rudolph

The Pittsburgh Steelers have somehow managed an 8-6 record with Mason Rudolph and Devlin "Duck" Hodges lining up at quarterback for the vast majority of the campaign (and all eight wins).

Hodges got the nod over Rudolph once the turnovers became too much for Mike Tomlin to handle. Then, naturally, Hodges threw four interceptions himself last Sunday against the Buffalo Bills, and is reportedly on a short leash as the Steelers fight for a playoff spot Sunday against the New York Jets.

NFL insider Tom Pelissero made sure to note how Rudolph was heavily involved in the game plan all week. Is that because he is young and needs to learn, or because he is more than likely going to play?

Based on the way Hodges played last Sunday, Tomlin may have more trust in Rudolph, as he was the one who originally started once Ben Roethlisberger went down. After all, the initial switch was made because Hodges wasn't "killing" them. Well, about that...

The Steelers are fighting with the Tennessee Titans for the sixth and final playoff spot in the AFC. A Week 17 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens looms, making this Jets game one in which the quarterback cannot give the game away.

Even one interception from Hodges could lead to Rudolph getting into the game. If he throws a pick, Tomlin may just want to keep running the ball.