4 bold predictions for the Steelers in Week 9 vs. Cowboys

Rudolph makes an appearance

While most fans would likely be concerned if I told them Mason Rudolph sees the field on Sunday, this will be a good thing. After torching the Cowboys through the first two quarters and then pounding them with the run in the third, Ben Roethlisberger gets to rest during the fourth quarter. This allows for Rudolph to see some snaps along with some other backups. While he would likely rely on just running the ball at that point, seeing him close out the game would be a good thing.

As well as just seeing the field, I think he connects with former teammate James Washington for a late score. While he misses a few passes, he doesn’t look like a train wreck. At the bare minimum, he gives fans confidence if Roethlisberger had to miss a game with an injury. If he looks particularly sharp, he could reinsert his name into the “future successor” hat for the Steelers.

Granted, if Rudolph sees snaps this week due to an injury, his play will pale in comparison to the severity of the injury suffered by Roethlisberger. If the Steelers can win this game early though, getting Rudolph some snaps would be a plus. While it doesn’t have to happen, showing that the Steelers may still have something in the former third-round pick would be a relief.

While none of these bold predictions are a guarantee to come true, it will be a testament to the outcome likely if any of them do. Again, the Steelers are heavily favored in this game, meaning that bold predictions are hard to come by. That said, the ones above have a real shot at happening and would likely aid in determining the final winner this Sunday.