5 bold predictions for the Steelers in Week 17 vs the Browns

Rudolph looks good

On the flip side, I think Mason Rudolph plays better than most are expecting him to in this game. While his only passes earlier in the season seemed unconfident, the Steelers have had little issue with crowning him as the starter for this game. It will be up to the offensive scheme more so than just Rudolph though.

As we saw last week against the Colts, the Steelers game plan has been playing a big issue in their offensive woes. When Randy Fichtner allowed Ben Roethlisberger to call more of the plays, the team suddenly moved the ball well. While he will certainly call the plays this week, as the offense will not be determined by Rudolph, ideally, he opens it up a little as the Steelers have very little to lose.

Assuming the offense doesn’t come out stale, I think Rudolph shows enough to inspire confidence in him as at least a backup. I think he connects on a pair of touchdowns as well as completing 70 percent of his passes. While his limitations are still apparent, the low-risk situation he plays in this week is to his aid. He comes out relaxed and focused, and as a result, looks like a better quarterback than most think he is at this point.