Steelers Quarterback Devlin Hodges Deserves Starting Job

Whatever momentum Mason Rudolph built was emphatically sucked out after he threw five interceptions in his last six quarters of play. Desperate, Mike Tomlin turned to backup Devlin "Duck" Hodges, who led the Pittsburgh Steelers to a win over the hapless Cincinnati Bengals.

#Steelers coach Mike Tomlin walked into the locker room with his arm around QB Devlin Hodges, having a conversation. Hodges gave them the one big play they needed to get past the #Bengals. So ... now what?
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 24, 2019

There shouldn't be a debate over who should start next week. Hodges has proven that he can handle it.

While Rudolph might have the better arm talent, he's a statue in the pocket who has been unwilling to uncork it deep down the field recently. Hodges is far from Ben Roethlisberger, but he's given the offense more juice than Rudolph did, and he has led them to wins against the Chargers and a division rival in his first two spells of significant action.

I dont think there is a controversy--Devlin Hodges should be starter next week--Its a week to week thing BUT DUCK season has begun for now #Steelers
— Bob Pompeani (@KDPomp) November 24, 2019

Hodges has the hot hand, and has shown to be more willing to challenge the defense down the field than Rudolph. If Pittsburgh is serious about making it into the playoffs, Hodges needs to be given the keys to the car and start next week against the Browns.

Tomlin on benching Mason Rudolph and going with Duck Hodges: “I just felt like our offense needed a spark. Just felt like Mason wasn’t doing enough.” #Steelers
— Blitzburgh (@SteelBlitzburgh) November 24, 2019

Now we'll see if he does get the starting nod.