Mason Rudolph Cleared for Action Following Concussion Protocol
The Pittsburgh Steelers, and Oklahoma State faithful, received good news on Wednesday as quarterback Mason Rudolph has been fully cleared from the concussion protocol and can return to action.
Rudolph was previous ruled out leading up to the previous game against Los Angeles this past week after receiving a concussion against the Baltimore Ravens two weeks ago.
Just a few days prior to Rudolph being cleared, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the Pittsburgh media heading into the bye week and announced that Mason Rudolph had been cleared to participate in practice, but wasn't technically back from the concussion protocol.
Once he opened it up to questions from the media, he was asked about Rudolph's status as the starting quarterback.
"Seriously guys, [Mason Rudolph] is our quarterback when he clears the protocol, and it's as simple as that," said Tomlin. "Appreciate the efforts of [Hodges] and so forth, but as soon as [Rudolph's] ready to go, he's ready to go."
That's pretty clear cut to me.
Third-string quarterback Devlin Hodges was tabbed the starter following Rudolph's injury and he helped lead the Steelers to a 24-17 win over the Chargers. He went 15-20 for 132 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
Following answering the question about Rudolph's status as the starter, Tomlin fielded a question on Hodges performance.
"He didn't kill us, and that's what you need from young quarterbacks," said Tomlin. "In general, he took care of the ball, he made the plays he needed to make and we were thoughtful about the positions we put him in."
Up until the injury occurred, Rudolph has played very well this season. He's completed 67 percent of his passes for 646 yards and seven touchdowns and just two interceptions. He's also posted a passer rating of 102.5.
The Steelers on a bye this week and will be back in action on Monday night, Oct. 28 as they play host to the Miami Dolphins. The game will be televised on ESPN.
