Mason Rudolph to Start Second Game for Steelers Amid Playoff Push

Despite Pickett's Recovery, Rudolph's Stellar Performance Earns Him Another Start

Mason Rudolph, the Pittsburgh Steelers' third-string quarterback, will start his second game in a row against the Seattle Seahawks, despite starting quarterback Kenny Pickett's recovery from ankle surgery.
Rudolph's performance in the previous game against the Cincinnati Bengals, where he threw for 290 yards and two touchdowns, was the most passing yards by any Steelers quarterback this season.
The Steelers' playoff hopes are still alive, but they do not control their playoff fortunes. Even back-to-back wins might not be enough to get them into the postseason.
The Steelers have ruled out safeties Trenton Thompson and Minkah Fitzpatrick along with inside linebacker Elandon Roberts for the upcoming game.
Despite being the third-string quarterback, Rudolph's scout-team reps during practice have prepared him for the game, with Coach Mike Tomlin noting his growth and competitiveness.