Coach Tomlin: Mason Rudolph Will Start Versus Cleveland

[86WARD]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201229/4193b967b47f0ee8e3ee3a6493c6a6e8.jpg

[teegre]

Get your Myles Garrett / helmet jokes ready...

[tube517]

Get your Myles Garrett / helmet jokes ready...

https://cdn.ebaumsworld.com/2019/11/15/050216/86117361/Myles-Garrett-Kyle-Rudolph-Meme-4.jpg

[Shoes]

Awesome! too bad Randy will be calling the plays.

[CV1]

If you see Ben with the head set on, he’s calling the plays [emoji1787]

Either way, if week 17 plays out as I believe it will, we will be playing the rubber match with the Browns come wild card weekend.


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[teegre]

Colts fans are pissed.

You gonna call out our plays... we’ll really change up our offense for you. :lol:

[Shoes]

Colts fans are pissed.

You gonna call out our plays... we’ll really change up our offense for you. :lol:

Randy F will still be there unfortunately.

[Edman]

Jokes on the Colts.

Shouldn’t have killed Andrew Luck’s career and replaced him with a choke artist.

[teegre]

Randy F will still be there unfortunately.

He’ll be “driving” the car... like Ruprecht. :lol:

[Shoes]

He’ll be “driving” the car... like Ruprecht. :lol:

:toofunny:

[Edman]

Tomlin with the knife twister.

Giving Mason a chance to redeem himself by eliminating the Browns from the playoffs on their home field. I doubt it of course, but it’s fun to think about.

[Shoes]

Tomlin with the knife twister.

Giving Mason a chance to redeem himself by eliminating the Browns from the playoffs on their home field. I doubt it of course, but it’s fun to think about.

Could very well happen, might as well throw Dobbs in there and mix it up a little. Unfortunately Randy Fichtner is still in the house.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Could very well happen, might as well throw Dobbs in there and mix it up a little. Unfortunately Randy Fichtner is still in the house.

At the very least its a good opportunity to see what improvement, if any that Rudolph has made in his footwork from moving read to read. If he still has his feet pointing down the middle when throwing to the right flat, then he is never going to get the footwork to be a productive NFL QB. IMO.

[Shoes]

At the very least its a good opportunity to see what improvement, if any that Rudolph has made in his footwork from moving read to read. If he still has his feet pointing down the middle when throwing to the right flat, then he is never going to get the footwork to be a productive NFL QB. IMO.


:crossed::crossed: Did he have that problem in school?

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

:crossed::crossed: Did he have that problem in school?

Yup, and he brought that to the NFL where it could be seen last year. Steve Smith commented on his draft year that he sailed too many throws high in college and wasnt a fan. I could see lack of good footwork that leads to inconsistency with accuracy.

Against Oklahoma his senior season he had a big game, but could not lead the final game winning drive to win the game and on the final drive he overthrew Washington a couple times. One in the right flat sailed and he didnt move his feet like I notice.

[Shoes]

Yup, and he brought that to the NFL where it could be seen last year. Steve Smith commented on his draft year that he sailed too many throws high in college and wasnt a fan. I could see lack of good footwork that leads to inconsistency with accuracy.

Against Oklahoma his senior season he had a big game, but could not lead the final game winning drive to win the game and on the final drive he overthrew Washington a couple times. One in the right flat sailed and he didnt move his feet like I notice.



This said he improved his footwork back in 2016. If he did have decent footwork in school, how did it get so bad in the pro's?

https://www.espn.com/blog/big12/post/_/id/116003/thanks-to-improved-footwork-oklahoma-state-qb-mason-rudolph-having-big-year

[teegre]

Josh Allen improved his footwork and has become a legitimate MVP candidate. He went from dead last in completion percentage to top five.

Mason Rudolph has half of Allen’s arm strength (which isn’t a total knock, because Allen has a cannon), but with proper footwork, Rudolph can become a “good enough” starter in the NFL. As in: if Ben retires, spend that “franchise QB money” to surround Rudolph with a great defense (and expect 21ppg from the offense).

NOTE: I’d still draft another QB early in 2021.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

This said he improved his footwork back in 2016. If he did have decent footwork in school, how did it get so bad in the pro's?

https://www.espn.com/blog/big12/post/_/id/116003/thanks-to-improved-footwork-oklahoma-state-qb-mason-rudolph-having-big-year

Watch 1:56 and 3:55 of this game. They are dump offs, but its the same lack of footwork where his eyes and arm looks to the receiver, but he doesnt follow up with his feet. Sure, on little short dumps to open guys this works, but when he does that and it requires a longer throw downfield or to the sideline, he misses badly at times.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCxRVyQlsdI

At 1:05 on this video, he does a good job of reading from left to right and he stays on the balls of his feet and brings them to his read of McDonald for a good throw for the TD. but watch this weekend if he gets flat footed and doesnt move his feet. Saw that in his couple plays vs Dallas this season. :(


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7iGAaA6nMo

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

@Shoes here is the Dallas video . At the 5:30 mark are 3 Rudolph passes. The first one is in rythmn and good footwork. Second is a read from rt to left and just dumps off over middle, with legs pointing to the left flat.

Third pass is where Rudolph opens up to throw, then regroups and throws to sideline, while his hips are open and legs pointing more down the numbers. The result is arm only throw and sails it. I think he thought the WR was gonna hook or dig inside, so he was about to throw it, but then read the cut outside and resets his arm, but not his feet. Keep an eye out for this on the weekend and see if it still happens. I notice a lot of his misses are due to throwing with arm only and not having his feet set towards the target.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COCgf33ROmc&list=UULrvlb5w9ybgq4xBN-k1kLg

[Shoes]

@Shoes here is the Dallas video . At the 5:30 mark are 3 Rudolph passes. The first one is in rythmn and good footwork. Second is a read from rt to left and just dumps off over middle, with legs pointing to the left flat.

Third pass is where Rudolph opens up to throw, then regroups and throws to sideline, while his hips are open and legs pointing more down the numbers. The result is arm only throw and sails it. I think he thought the WR was gonna hook or dig inside, so he was about to throw it, but then read the cut outside and resets his arm, but not his feet. Keep an eye out for this on the weekend and see if it still happens. I notice a lot of his misses are due to throwing with arm only and not having his feet set towards the target.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COCgf33ROmc&list=UULrvlb5w9ybgq4xBN-k1kLg

Thanks for the info!

[Crow-Magnon]

Wow. Not “wow” as in sitting Ben (kind of expected and makes sense as far as the playoffs go), but as in it’s only Tuesday and early to be tipping one’s hand. Why give Cleveland extra days to prepare for Rudolph when waiting til Thursday or Friday makes them have to prepare for either/or?

Sounds like some psychological trickery going on here! Or a huge gaffe.

[st33lersguy]

Yeah, good idea to rest some people up with no hope of a bye

[Mojouw]

So we have the old QB who struggled with moving his feet for a month. Or the young Qb who did for a season last time we saw him healthy enough to play.

Sweet!

[tube517]

So we have the old QB who struggled with moving his feet for a month. Or the young Qb who did for a season last time we saw him healthy enough to play.

Sweet!

Who will have more 3 and outs? The Reindeer or December Ben in the first half?

[EzraTank]

Watch Miami beat Buffalo and we miss a shot at the #2 seed.

[Shoes]

Who will have more 3 and outs? The Reindeer or December Ben in the first half?


Only Randy knows.

[Squeegee Thompson]

Don Coryell could be calling the offense on Sunday and Mason would be incapable of throwing it more than 5 yards downfield. I'm fine with this move. It's a largely unimportant game (sorry, the Dolphins are NOT going up to Buffalo in January and coming out with a win). We don't have to tip our hand, and the team gets a mini-bye week going into the playoffs. Honestly, it's the best case scenario to get your scrubs some reps, and your banged-up guys a week to heal before the playoffs really get going. With two more weeks of rest, maybe Feiler and Spillane will be back. Throw in Ola as well.

If the 2-seed got a bye this year, I'd say 'do everything you can to win'. The difference between 2 and 3 is almost meaningless, since nobody knows who #6 or #7 will be yet. Get healthy and get ready to go on a tear January 9th.

[Steeler-in-west]

Big game for Rudolph’s career, against Garrett and the browns no less. Will probably influence how the Steelers draft in 2021. People are knocking him but didn’t he play well in the season finale against the Ravens before he got hurt last year?

Also, I think Dobbs has a lot of potential, though I don’t think he’ll get a chance to play unless Rudolph gets hurt. Dobbs has a strong arm and the smarts (he’s an aerospace engineer) I think he just needs the experience. Wouldn’t be surprised if he catches on with another team if not with the Steelers.

[teegre]

Wow. Not “wow” as in sitting Ben (kind of expected and makes sense as far as the playoffs go), but as in it’s only Tuesday and early to be tipping one’s hand. Why give Cleveland extra days to prepare for Rudolph when waiting til Thursday or Friday makes them have to prepare for either/or?

Sounds like some psychological trickery going on here! Or a huge gaffe.

It’s essentially a playoff week. Ergo, Vegas wants the betting lines to be as accutate as possible.

[DesertSteel]

If I'm Tomlin, I go in with a game plan of passing it no more than 20 times. It's an opportunity to establish some semblance of a running game before the playoffs. Stat line might look like 40 carries for 60 yards, but they need to develop the right mentality because at some point in the playoffs they're gonna need to run it.

[Born2Steel]

Rudolph air-mails it to Washington 54 times in a row. Washington catches it 3 times for 3TDs. Steelers win 21-10.

[86WARD]

Tomlin is content on being the three seed.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

If I'm Tomlin, I go in with a game plan of passing it no more than 20 times. It's an opportunity to establish some semblance of a running game before the playoffs. Stat line might look like 40 carries for 60 yards, but they need to develop the right mentality because at some point in the playoffs they're gonna need to run it.

I dont think that you can really gameplan that way. I think you go in with the mentality of using some running plays and short passes to keep a young QB like Rudolph in 3rd down and 5 or less situations where possible as much as possible. But I dont think you can just be that one sided like planning to pass 20 times and run 40 times.

I know what you are saying and I would like to see them run the football off tackle and mix, some inside and outside zone runs, but the way they currently play is a lot of short passing and east-west football. Not sure why I would expect them to change that up, unless they give ben the headset and let him call plays that the opposing defense isnt calling out before hand. :rolleyes:

- - - Updated - - -


Rudolph air-mails it to Washington 54 times in a row. Washington catches it 3 times for 3TDs. Steelers win 21-10.

What is the over-under on how many times the announcers mention that Rudolph played with Washington in college??

[Born2Steel]

I dont think that you can really gameplan that way. I think you go in with the mentality of using some running plays and short passes to keep a young QB like Rudolph in 3rd down and 5 or less situations where possible as much as possible. But I dont think you can just be that one sided like planning to pass 20 times and run 40 times.

I know what you are saying and I would like to see them run the football off tackle and mix, some inside and outside zone runs, but the way they currently play is a lot of short passing and east-west football. Not sure why I would expect them to change that up, unless they give ben the headset and let him call plays that the opposing defense isnt calling out before hand. :rolleyes:

- - - Updated - - -



What is the over-under on how many times the announcers mention that Rudolph played with Washington in college??

54

[CV1]

So what’s the betting line for Mason?

13/27 113yds 3INTs?


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[DesertSteel]

So what’s the betting line for Mason?

13/27 113yds 3INTs?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
17-22 for 208 yards and 2 TD 0 Int

- - - Updated - - -


54
If Dan Fouts was still active it’d be 72.

[teegre]

1) If we get Vilma as the announcer, not only do I expect him to mention the Rudolph-Washington connection at OSU at least once per series, I expect him to say it with newfound vigor (as if no one has ever noticed that before) each & every time that he mentions it.

2) Rudolph’s stat line: 3/54 for 225, 3 TDs
Washington’s stat line: 3 for 225, 3 TDs

3) I’d like to see the O-line and RBs work out the kinks in the running game. IMO, this would mostly come from the OC committing to running north-south. As Baldinger has pointed out the past TWO weeks: the Steelers can still create holes... it’s just that the holes are currently being opened east-west (and behind the LOS). When the Steelers turn those plays 90 degrees, the running game magically works. Weird.

[DesertSteel]

Please not Vilma!!

[tube517]

1) If we get Vilma as the announcer, not only do I expect him to mention the Rudolph-Washington connection at OSU at least once per series, I expect him to say it with newfound vigor (as if no one has ever noticed that before) each & every time that he mentions it.

2) Rudolph’s stat line: 3/54 for 225, 3 TDs
Washington’s stat line: 3 for 225, 3 TDs

3) I’d like to see the O-line and RBs work out the kinks in the running game. IMO, this would mostly come from the OC committing to running north-south. As Baldinger has pointed out the past TWO weeks: the Steelers can still create holes... it’s just that the holes are currently being opened east-west (and behind the LOS). When the Steelers turn those plays 90 degrees, the running game magically works. Weird.

Vilma will mention Ben was in his draft class for the 100th time this year.

- - - Updated - - -

Fichnter and Rudolph will set an NFL record for most crossing routes with negative yards as well as Chase will have 18 jet sweeps for -39 yards that even Baker Manziel will be calling those plays from the sideline.

[Edman]

I stick Mason with 14/30 166 Yards 1 TD and 2 INT’s and a lost fumble. Sacked four times. Steelers lose 30-13.

A generally painful performance that leaves us pining for a new QB after Ben. I don’t have very high expectations on Mason, just him to not be total shit, just a LITTLE improvement. A LITTLE spark from that guy. That can’t be too much to ask for, right?

[cubanstogie]

I stick Mason with 14/30 166 (tel:14/30 166) Yards 1 TD and 2 INT’s and a lost fumble. Sacked four times. Steelers lose 30-13.

A generally painful performance that leaves us pining for a new QB after Ben. I don’t have very high expectations on Mason, just him to not be total shit, just a LITTLE improvement. A LITTLE spark from that guy. That can’t be too much to ask for, right?
Ive had a couple of drinks, but I honestly seeing Rudolph having a good game. If he gets rid of it quickly like Ben has been doing, gets it to playmakers and throws deep every once in a while with our D we have a good chance. No turnovers is a must though. No way you can hold the ball with no scrambling ability against Browns D line.

[Fire Goodell]

Mason's last game he was walking off the field like


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ky1HiwZjYKE

[teegre]

Rest TJ, Heyward, and Bince for the entire game. Tuitt can play a quarter. Minkah, Haden, and Nelson can play a half.

On offense, DeCastro, DJ, and Conner should sit/rest the entire game. Heck, sit JuJu and Claypool. Luckily, Washington and Ray-Ray are very capable backups. Only use Boz when absolutely necessary.

[oneforthetoe]

I think this game comes down to the quarterback on the other side. I'm interested to see how Baker responds after a terrible game on his part. When Baker is bad he is really bad. If he plays like he did against the Jets, he could honestly hand the game to the Steelers. We have two Qb's starting in this game with very fragile physiques. Either or both could fall apart quickly if things go bad early in the game.

[86WARD]

Rest TJ, Heyward, and Bince for the entire game. Tuitt can play a quarter. Minkah, Haden, and Nelson can play a half.

On offense, DeCastro, DJ, and Conner should sit/rest the entire game. Heck, sit JuJu and Claypool. Luckily, Washington and Ray-Ray are very capable backups. Only use Boz when absolutely necessary.

I like that plan.

[Rotorhead]

Anyone that is banged up should get the rest they need this week, but we have to field a team. We may as well plan to take some mid to deep shots this week to see how that opens up the run game. We will be playing the Browns again the next week, so let’s try some stuff to see what will work agains them the best. Most importantly, praying for no injuries!

[DesertSteel]

Regardless of who plays and doesn't play, I'd love to see the Steelers knock the Browns out of the playoffs -- especially with a bunch of backups on the road.

[Six Rings]

Josh Allen improved his footwork and has become a legitimate MVP candidate. He went from dead last in completion percentage to top five.

Mason Rudolph has half of Allen’s arm strength (which isn’t a total knock, because Allen has a cannon), but with proper footwork, Rudolph can become a “good enough” starter in the NFL. As in: if Ben retires, spend that “franchise QB money” to surround Rudolph with a great defense (and expect 21ppg from the offense).

NOTE: I’d still draft another QB early in 2021.


We will have a chance to draft Mac Jones or Kyle Trask. Who do you like in round one?

Rudolph is a dink and dun type of passer with slow feet and can't produce the 24+ PPG that we need to win more often than not. Oh, but Randy F will love Mason.

[Born2Steel]

Why is Mason Rudolph SO dink and dunk in this system? Here is his highlights reel from OSU: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKJ9NYaZp3M

Here is what he looks like for the Steelers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-_5j8wn3Ig

Yet here are his stats from last season: https://www.nfl.com/players/mason-rudolph/stats/career

[86WARD]

What knocks the Ravens out of the Playoffs? I’d like to see that happen...lol.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Why is Mason Rudolph SO dink and dunk in this system? Here is his highlights reel from OSU: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKJ9NYaZp3M

Here is what he looks like for the Steelers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-_5j8wn3Ig

Yet here are his stats from last season: https://www.nfl.com/players/mason-rudolph/stats/career

Maybe because the system is designed to be dink and dunk.

He also threw almost all those highlight reel passes to his first read. Might have gone thru some adjustments to more complex defenses that he cant read as easy pre snap. Still, a short passing offense is what he is in right now.

[Born2Steel]

Maybe because the system is designed to be dink and dunk.

He also threw almost all those highlight reel passes to his first read. Might have gone thru some adjustments to more complex defenses that he cant read as easy pre snap. Still, a short passing offense is what he is in right now.

I have come to recognize this trait with more than a few college QBs. It seems to be a trend to teach a “half field” read by college OCs. The OC sends in a play design to the right so the QB may have options but all are on the right side of the field, for example. Maybe Rudolph learned this way under Gundy? College QBs that can actually read the whole field and not just read deep, then check down are getting harder for me to distinguish. Also a lot of college spread systems take away the element of QB under pressure in many offenses. Having to make additional reads plus NFL level pressures relegate many skilled and prolific college QBs to backup roles or the scrap heap.

[Crow-Magnon]

What knocks the Ravens out of the Playoffs? I’d like to see that happen...lol.

Depends on how often they need to punt lol. Koch is now on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

If they get the W over the Bengals, they’re in. If they lose (like the Steelers did lol), if either the Browns, Colts or Dolphins also lose, they’re in.

[CV1]

One thing can’t happen... both the Ratbirds and Brownies get knocked out of the playoffs... wish it could, but can’t.

One match up I hope happens..is the Giants make it, and. Brady goes up to NY and takes a L [emoji106]

Just the mental mind fuck it would put on him [emoji1787]

He professed he hates the Steelers, but we all know he hates the Giants more


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Edman]

Ben Roethlisberger went from potential 2020 MVP candidate to burning trashfire running the same offense to the point where this entire board thought he was cooked. Until the second half against Indy, he was basically terrible throughout December.

I believe the offense as it is designed, not Mason Rudolph. Granted, he still may be trash. We'll find out Sunday.

[teegre]

We will have a chance to draft Mac Jones or Kyle Trask. Who do you like in round one?

Rudolph is a dink and dun type of passer with slow feet and can't produce the 24+ PPG that we need to win more often than not. Oh, but Randy F will love Mason.

I’ve posted this elsewhere, but it bears iteration...

Mac Jones is insanely accurate. But, he only passes it 7-10 yards. That is what we saw this year with Ben and last year with Rudolph & Duck. Plus, Jones relied on his receivers to create YAC. Maybe in R2.

I was okay with Kyle Trask at 32... before tonight. He had played well when Pitts was out, but tonight, he couldn’t do anything. Maybe at 64.

Honestly, Lawrence, Wilson, and Fields are locks to go Top 5. Lance will be a little later, but he won’t drop out of the Top Ten. I would now put Ridder and Newman ahead of Trask and Jones. But, don’t think that I’m taking Ridder nor Newman in R1. So... trade for Darnold? for Stafford? for Watson? for Hurts? for Wentz?

[Rotorhead]

What knocks the Ravens out of the Playoffs? I’d like to see that happen...lol.

I think a W against the Browns is the best bet to knock the Ravens out. I would rather see the Browns in the playoffs than the Ravens also.

[teegre]

I think a W against the Browns is the best bet to knock the Ravens out. I would rather see the Browns in the playoffs than the Ravens also.

It’s the opposite. In order for the Ravens to ge eliminated...

a) the Ravens need to lose

b) the Dolphins, Colts, AND Browns ALL need to win

[katmandu]

He’ll be “driving” the car... like Ruprecht. :lol:https://media3.giphy.com/media/IbadywLDYT9oZ5apd0/200w.webp?cid=ecf05e471pg684s0eyprbel0j19ynzw6n8hz szdw4pyt8d01&rid=200w.webp

[katmandu]

One thing can’t happen... both the Ratbirds and Brownies get knocked out of the playoffs... wish it could, but can’t.

One match up I hope happens..is the Giants make it, and. Brady goes up to NY and takes a L [emoji106]:thumbsup:

Just the mental mind fuck it would put on him [emoji1787]

He professed he hates the Steelers, but we all know he hates the Giants more


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk:thumbsup:

[teegre]

Yesterday, Cam Heyward was on the Pat McAfee show. Cam said that they are all practicing as if they are starting, which is Tomlin’s MO*. But, before kickoff, that could all change.

*I heard Michael Irvin saying the same thing this very week... that practicing like you are going to play is crucial, because it keeps you sharp & focused. That way you get gameday off for your body to rest, but you do not lose the entire week.

As far as Ben already knowing that he will get the game off (but, no one else knows anything), Cam joked that Tomlin was like, “Screw the rest of you.” :lol:

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

I have come to recognize this trait with more than a few college QBs. It seems to be a trend to teach a “half field” read by college OCs. The OC sends in a play design to the right so the QB may have options but all are on the right side of the field, for example. Maybe Rudolph learned this way under Gundy? College QBs that can actually read the whole field and not just read deep, then check down are getting harder for me to distinguish. Also a lot of college spread systems take away the element of QB under pressure in many offenses. Having to make additional reads plus NFL level pressures relegate many skilled and prolific college QBs to backup roles or the scrap heap.

Might be something to that. If I think of the Gruden QB camp stuff or Steve Mariucci pre draft chalk talk with QB's, its a lot of pre snap read and "either or" scenarios. ie, "if the SS goes with TE motion, throw the 9 to the WR, if he stays and the OLB flexes out in coverage, then look for the dig to the #2 WR." Its still not a case where the QB is going thru a progression of 3 options and I think a lot of college defenses are not as complexly disguised as what they see in the NFL.

To your original point, I think Rudolph can definitely throw deep passes in rhythm, but I don't think that was a big part of the offense last year or this. This current Steelers offense is somewhat of a derivation of the quick passing Run n' Shoot offenses of Mouse Davis and June Jones. I had a coach tell me at a coaching clinic that they never feared those Run n' Shoot offenses of the Oilers, because they were not as effective inside the 20 yard line, when the field gets compressed and they never had the run game on the goal line. So if the Oilers were going to score, they better hit a long pass from the 30 yard line an beyond, or get their FG kicker ready.

[Mojouw]

I have come to recognize this trait with more than a few college QBs. It seems to be a trend to teach a “half field” read by college OCs. The OC sends in a play design to the right so the QB may have options but all are on the right side of the field, for example. Maybe Rudolph learned this way under Gundy? College QBs that can actually read the whole field and not just read deep, then check down are getting harder for me to distinguish. Also a lot of college spread systems take away the element of QB under pressure in many offenses. Having to make additional reads plus NFL level pressures relegate many skilled and prolific college QBs to backup roles or the scrap heap.


Might be something to that. If I think of the Gruden QB camp stuff or Steve Mariucci pre draft chalk talk with QB's, its a lot of pre snap read and "either or" scenarios. ie, "if the SS goes with TE motion, throw the 9 to the WR, if he stays and the OLB flexes out in coverage, then look for the dig to the #2 WR." Its still not a case where the QB is going thru a progression of 3 options and I think a lot of college defenses are not as complexly disguised as what they see in the NFL.

To your original point, I think Rudolph can definitely throw deep passes in rhythm, but I don't think that was a big part of the offense last year or this. This current Steelers offense is somewhat of a derivation of the quick passing Run n' Shoot offenses of Mouse Davis and June Jones. I had a coach tell me at a coaching clinic that they never feared those Run n' Shoot offenses of the Oilers, because they were not as effective inside the 20 yard line, when the field gets compressed and they never had the run game on the goal line. So if the Oilers were going to score, they better hit a long pass from the 30 yard line an beyond, or get their FG kicker ready.

Interesting conversation and thoughts. My two cents is that Gundy and other college coaches also seem to have success getting a pass catcher running towards open grass and away from other defenders far more than in the NFL. I am not sure how to describe it, but I see a ton of college QBs throwing to receivers in loose single coverage, running away from all the other DBs. Then in the NFL, the coverage is right in the WRs hip pocket and there are multiple other defenders buzzing into the area. Makes the window to fit the ball into super small compared to what the QB is used to.

[Born2Steel]

A clean pocket makes all the difference.

Interesting fact is the number of times MR was sacked in college. This tends to suggest the QB was not reading the defense but instead reading route/coverage combinations only. Disguising pressure is what NFL defenses do best. If you never learn in college it’s too late once you get there. Adjusting protections and flipping right/left playcall is a big part of that ‘football IQ’ we’re always talking about. Big reason why Ben R has more success than last year’s tandem did running the same system.

[Mojouw]

A clean pocket makes all the difference.

Interesting fact is the number of times MR was sacked in college. This tends to suggest the QB was not reading the defense but instead reading route/coverage combinations only. Disguising pressure is what NFL defenses do best. If you never learn in college it’s too late once you get there. Adjusting protections and flipping right/left playcall is a big part of that ‘football IQ’ we’re always talking about. Big reason why Ben R has more success than last year’s tandem did running the same system.

I think that’s a good assessment. Also why I think Canada is given more input when Ben retires. FWIW, this offense is built for Ben. I figure it gets redesigned when he leaves.

[Shoes]

Moats On Mason


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LD0P12M1hzA

[pczach]

Moats On Mason


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LD0P12M1hzA



I agree with Moats. Rudolph is now a seasoned player that has had a lot of time to learn the position, learn the offense, learn from watching Ben play, and learning from his own mistakes.

It is time to see what Mason Rudolph has learned, and where he is in his career. This is a big game for Mason Rudolph and his future.

I also agree that Fichtner will be scrutinized with his game plan in this one. This is no longer a player with zero experience. He needs to take the training wheels off and see what he can do. If Fichtner can't create some opportunities for Rudolph in this game with a full week of preparation and most of the starters playing, that will show that Fichtner is incapable of scheming and tailoring an offense to optimize the performance of whoever is behind center IMO.

If those opportunities are there, and Rudolph doesn't take advantage of them, that's on Rudolph and it will shape what the team thinks he is capable of going forward.

[Shoes]

I agree with Moats. Rudolph is now a seasoned player that has had a lot of time to learn the position, learn the offense, learn from watching Ben play, and learning from his own mistakes.

It is time to see what Mason Rudolph has learned, and where he is in his career. This is a big game for Mason Rudolph and his future.

I also agree that Fichtner will be scrutinized with his game plan in this one. This is no longer a player with zero experience. He needs to take the training wheels off and see what he can do. If Fichtner can't create some opportunities for Rudolph in this game with a full week of preparation and most of the starters playing, that will show that Fichtner is incapable of scheming and tailoring an offense to optimize the performance of whoever is behind center IMO.

If those opportunities are there, and Rudolph doesn't take advantage of them, that's on Rudolph and it will shape what the team thinks he is capable of going forward.

Agreed! Hope these guys all excel and have a blast with a win!

[teegre]

0:03 seconds left
Browns up by 4 points (17-21)
fourth-&-goal from the 3
Mason runs by Myles for the game-winning TD

Mason’s celebration is the entire O-line removing their helmets and pretending to club Mason over the head. :lol:

[Shoes]

0:03 seconds left
Browns up by 4 points (17-21)
fourth-&-goal from the 3
Mason runs by Myles for the game-winning TD

Mason’s celebration is the entire O-line removing their helmets and pretending to club Mason over the head. :lol:
:toofunny:

[86WARD]

0:03 seconds left
Browns up by 4 points (17-21)
fourth-&-goal from the 3
Mason runs by Myles for the game-winning TD

Mason’s celebration is the entire O-line removing their helmets and pretending to club Mason over the head. :lol:

Lol. You win the internet.

[pczach]

0:03 seconds left
Browns up by 4 points (17-21)
fourth-&-goal from the 3
Mason runs by Myles for the game-winning TD

Mason’s celebration is the entire O-line removing their helmets and pretending to club Mason over the head. :lol:



Mark Madden loses his mind and blames JuJu for orchestrating the celebration. :chuckle:

[katmandu]

A clean pocket makes all the difference.

Interesting fact is the number of times MR was sacked in college. This tends to suggest the QB was not reading the defense but instead reading route/coverage combinations only. Disguising pressure is what NFL defenses do best. If you never learn in college it’s too late once you get there. Adjusting protections and flipping right/left playcall is a big part of that ‘football IQ’ we’re always talking about. Big reason why Ben R has more success than last year’s tandem did running the same system.Another angle is the quality of Defenders, schemes and Defensive Coordinators new-to-the-NFL College QBs are up against.

As we know, NFL defenders run to the ball and swarm it much faster than College players. The one-on-one Press coverage is much tighter as well. This of course makes the window for QB's to hit. All this while running for your life that you're not used to (as much) in College play.

[tube517]

Joe Haden just posted this with no further explanation:

1345409688809177089


Stains:

1345371230514409474

[Shoes]

Three more members of the Pittsburgh Steelers will not play in tomorrow afternoon’s Week 17 game between the Steelers and Cleveland Browns. The team ruled out Cam Heyward, Maurkice Pouncey, and TJ Watt from their regular season finale. All three are being held out for rest, not due to injury.

[bendsteel]

I think they should coach Mason to whisper smack talk anytime he gets near Garrett. Make sure to use lots of words like bigger and trigger. Maybe they can get him to lose his shit again, then get kicked out of football....for good. If there is one thing I cannot stand, it is a liar who refuses to fess up even after he is shown to be wrong.

[teegre]

Yesterday, Cam Heyward was on the Pat McAfee show. Cam said that they are all practicing as if they are starting, which is Tomlin’s MO*. But, before kickoff, that could all change.

*I heard Michael Irvin saying the same thing this very week... that practicing like you are going to play is crucial, because it keeps you sharp & focused. That way you get gameday off for your body to rest, but you do not lose the entire week.

As far as Ben already knowing that he will get the game off (but, no one else knows anything), Cam joked that Tomlin was like, “Screw the rest of you.” :lol:

Cam, Pouncey, and TJ aren’t even going to the game. Neither are Edmunds, Ben, nor Boz.

I’m assuming some of the others (whom I listed) will see limited action.

[86WARD]

Cam, Pouncey, and TJ aren’t even going to the game. Neither are Edmunds, Ben, nor Boz.

I’m assuming some of the others (whom I listed) will see limited action.

Don’t forget Haden, Ebron and The main man Cassius!

9 players. Maybe they can put that money they save on travel towards Watts new deal! Lol.

[Crow-Magnon]

I said it before but I’ll say it again. I get the “resting players” mantra. I really do. But I don’t know if you want to rest up enough players and allow a division rival into the playoffs. No one knows your team’s pluses and minuses like a division rival. Having three AFCN teams in the post-season seems to be tempting fate.

If I was Tomlin, I’d want to eliminate Cleveland today.

[SteelerFan091472]

1) If we get Vilma as the announcer, not only do I expect him to mention the Rudolph-Washington connection at OSU at least once per series, I expect him to say it with newfound vigor (as if no one has ever noticed that before) each & every time that he mentions it.

Good news, Vilma won’t be announcing the Steelers/Browns game since the game is on CBS.

[pczach]

I said it before but I’ll say it again. I get the “resting players” mantra. I really do. But I don’t know if you want to rest up enough players and allow a division rival into the playoffs. No one knows your team’s pluses and minuses like a division rival. Having three AFCN teams in the post-season seems to be tempting fate.

If I was Tomlin, I’d want to eliminate Cleveland today.


I think it simply comes down the fact that the head coach likes his chances against anybody with as fully a healthy squad as possible. Get your best players some needed rest and time to heal up, and eliminate the chance of injury in a game when you are already qualified for the playoffs.

With the players involved, especially Ben and some lingering injuries, I completely agree with this strategy in this particular situation.

He still wants to beat Cleveland today, but he'll have to do it with whoever he chooses to put out there, while giving backup players much needed playing time if they are called upon, and helping the organization get a better read on what these players are capable of against NFL starting talent.

Besides, Cleveland can still get in if they lose today. That's out of the Steelers' control. Why should the Steelers risk injury to their most important players to beat a team that can still get into the playoffs anyway, even if they beat them?

[tube517]

Cam, Pouncey, and TJ aren’t even going to the game. Neither are Edmunds, Ben, nor Boz.

I’m assuming some of the others (whom I listed) will see limited action.

I didn't see Randy Fichtner listed as those not going so I'll be counting the 3 and outs as well as the screens and -5 yard crossing routes and -8 yard jet sweeps.

[Edman]

Rudolph really vindicated himself big time. It took an obvious hold on Claypool for Cleveland to win.

Yes, working with Canada has made a lightyear of difference.

[Shoes]

Rudolph really vindicated himself big time. It took an obvious hold on Claypool for Cleveland to win.

Yes, working with Canada has made a lightyear of difference.

Like I said last year he has the tools and smarts, he needed coaching help.

[fansince'76]

I dread Roethlisberger's imminent retirement quite a bit less now. Great job by Rudolph today.

[dislocatedday]

Rudolph really vindicated himself big time. It took an obvious hold on Claypool for Cleveland to win.

Yes, working with Canada has made a lightyear of difference.

In addition to the holding/PI on Claypool all day long, there was all the holding Cleveland's offensive line did today. It was ridiculous, and while I do not like conspiracy theories, it was almost like the NFL front office told the officiating crew to help Cleveland get in the playoffs.

[pczach]

In addition to the holding/PI on Claypool all day long, there was all the holding Cleveland's offensive line did today. It was ridiculous, and while I do not like conspiracy theories, it was almost like the NFL front office told the officiating crew to help Cleveland get in the playoffs.



The obvious grabbing of Claypool on the 2-point conversion was bad. So was the first down run by the Browns on the last drive that sealed the game. The RT grabbed a defender, spun them around and threw him to the ground. It is literally the definition of holding. That would have been very interesting to see how things would have played out then. 1st down and 20, 1:20 left on the clock and the Steelers had all 3 timeouts.

There may have been a different ending. Cleveland fans would have been about to pass out if the Steelers got the ball back and were moving close to a game-winning field goal with the clock running down.

[DesertSteel]

Sans the one boneheaded mental error that led to the INT, Rudolph played a very good game.

[dislocatedday]

I dread Roethlisberger's imminent retirement quite a bit less now. Great job by Rudolph today.

I will say I feel much better about Rudolph after today, and think that perhaps the team does not need to try and draft a QB this year assuming Ben comes back. Get two O-lineman and a RB in the first three rounds, and fill out the roster afterwards from there.

[DesertSteel]

Rudolph really vindicated himself big time. It took an obvious hold on Claypool for Cleveland to win.

Yes, working with Canada has made a lightyear of difference.
But if he'd played bad it would have been Fichtner's fault!

[Fire Goodell]

Landry Jones was the guy who could only beat the Browns, Mason is the guy that can't beat the Browns :chuckle: