After 16 years of Ben Roethlisberger, can the Pittsburgh Steelers really turn to an undrafted rookie out of Samford? When watching Mason Rudolph play, it is easy to accept Devlin Hodges.

Hodges has played in five games this season making three starts. The Steelers are 3-0 in those games. He has thrown just two interceptions while completing 71.2% of his passes. In his last two starts, Hodges has defeated the last two No. 1 picks in the draft, Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray. He has quickly built an identity and nickname. Hodges is known to be an avid duck caller and hunter. The Steelers and their fans have quickly bought into the hype.

Mike Tomlin remains a key factor in the Steelers' success. After fans ridiculously went through a “Fire Tomlin” phase, he is once again proving that he is one of the top coaches in the league. Tomlin handled the Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown drama with class. It looks like he made the right decision with both players. Now, the Steelers have won seven out of eight games and are currently in the second AFC Wild-Card spot. They are doing this without a true quarterback, running back, and a depleted group of receivers.

Hodges has to be the guy for the rest of the season but what about beyond?

Is Hodges the Future in Pittsburgh?

Steelers, Devlin Hodges
CP

Hodges has been making all the right plays since entering the starting lineup. The Steelers have not asked him to do too much. Their defense has been flying and carrying them to victories. All Pittsburgh has asked their quarterback to do is to complete passes and not turn the ball over.

The Steelers have thrown 200 or more yards just once since Hodges has taken over. They are averaging just 19.8 points per game over their latest three-game win streak. Winning cures all. Numbers are received better and game plans look flawless when a team is winning.

Hodges has shown the ability to use his legs to make plays. At 23 years old, there is much room for him to improve. He does not have a big arm and cannot make every throw on the field. On the other hand, his decision making has been strong and he is winning games. Tomlin and the Steelers have rallied around their quarterback and the team looks energized. Pair all of this with a nickname and identity, which is necessary for athletes, and Hodges might have a promising NFL career. He is certainly playing himself into a starting role next season if he can lead the Steelers to the postseason.