3 reasons Steelers need to start Rudolph over Roethlisberger

The offense suits him

Like it or not, the Steelers seem content to run the offense as they have all season despite the struggles they have encountered recently. Despite losing three straight games, this offense seems set to continue to rely on the short passing game with little aid from the running game and deep passing attack. With Roethlisberger, this offense hit a new low last week, but it could still function properly with Rudolph.

Last year, the Steelers attempted to run the ball after losing Roethlisberger for the season. Eventually, defenses stacked the box and forced the team to win through the air, something that they hadn’t planned on doing. This year, the offense functions with a quick and short passing game. This takes a good game manager to be effective, one that can make a quick read and get the ball out quickly. Based on the tape on Rudolph from last year, this offense could play into his strengths.

That isn’t to say he would look elite due to the system change, but it is very quarterback friendly. If Rudolph did start against the Colts, more than likely they would be expecting a heavy dose of the run game as was seen last year. If the offense came out firing as they have with short quick passes, it could further throw the Colts off balance.

The last thing the Steelers can do is trot out the exact same offense they have since they began to decline. Roethlisberger is extremely limited right now as a thrower, meaning that putting in the backup could allow for just enough change to keep this game within reach. If the Colts game plan for 2019 Rudolph (hand the ball off as much as he can) but the team comes out with quick passes, it could allow this offense to surge as it did earlier.

Let me make this clear once again: the Steelers shouldn’t rely on Rudolph in the long term, as it will likely lead to just as limited of an offense as we have seen in recent weeks. That said, using him for a short spell in order for Roethlisberger to get back on track could be just what the team needs. Him game managing the offense this week could be just enough to beat the Colts and win the division. It would give Roethlisberger the time to right himself before the playoffs as well. If Rudolph is ready, the Steelers would be wise to give him a look for this week to refresh this offense.