Pittsburgh Steelers: Studs and duds vs. Browns in Week 13

Stud: Devlin Hodges, QB

Ordinarily, I wouldn’t consider Hodges’ performance worthy of a stud position. However, considering Pittsburgh’s lack of offensive success recently, Hodges’ minimal success had a massive impact.

Week 13 was just Hodges’ second career start. The undrafted rookie from Samford started in place of Rudolph in Week 6 against the Los Angeles Chargers. Hodges completed 75.0 percent of his pass attempts for 132 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in that game. The Steelers won 24-17.

Hodges entered Pittsburgh’s Week 12 game when Rudolph failed to energize the offense against the lowly Bengals. Refusing to lose to the then winless Bengals, Mike Tomlin benched Rudolph for Hodges. The rookie opened the second half with a passing touchdown and later led two drives that resulted in field goals. The Steelers won 16-10.

Against the Browns, Hodges completed 14 of his 21 pass attempts for 212 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. When Rudolph faced the Browns in Week 11, he threw four interceptions.

Dud: Diontae Johnson, WR

The rookie third-round pick has flashed potential at points this season, but he only has three games with at least 60 receiving yards. It’s not like he hasn’t had opportunities. Entering Week 13, Johnson already had eight starts in his first 11 games.

Patience is key for developing young wide receivers, look at Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders as examples. However, it’s not unfair to ask for more than the one reception for 14 yards Johnson produced on five targets against the Browns.

Both Johnson and Washington have potential. However, the Steelers are in an awkward phase. With poor quarterback play, it’s hard to develop young receivers. Hopefully, this odd season won’t stunt their growth.