Aaron Rodgers to Miss Week 12 Against the Chicago Bears: Mason Rudolph Steps Up

In a significant turn of events for the Pittsburgh Steelers, quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been ruled out for their Week 12 matchup against the Chicago Bears due to a wrist injury. This decision comes after Rodgers sustained a fracture in his non-throwing wrist during the Steelers’ intense Week 11 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Mason Rudolph Takes Over

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed in a pregame interview that Mason Rudolph will take the reins as the starting quarterback.

"I’ll provide you with complete clarity, [Rodgers is] not going to play today," Tomlin stated to CBS Sports reporter Evan Washburn. "He fought his tail off all week, but that’s the prudent play for us to make as a collective."

Rudolph, who has been with the Steelers before and has demonstrated his capability in previous games, will absorb most of the team’s reps leading up to this crucial game.

Injury Details and Impact

Rodgers, 41, exited the previous game against the Bengals after suffering his wrist fracture early in the second quarter. Though he sought to play due to the positive indication that his injury wouldn’t require surgery, the coaching staff decided that caution was necessary.

• Rodgers’ Stats Before Injury:
  • Yards: 1,969
  • Touchdowns: 19
  • Interceptions: 7
• Career Record Against Bears: 24–5
• Touchdowns Against Bears: 64 (most vs. any NFL team)

As a testament to his prowess, Rodgers aimed to extend his impressive track record against the Bears but will now have to watch from the sidelines.

Mason Rudolph’s Career

Following Rodgers’ injury, Rudolph stepped in effectively, completing 12 out of 16 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown during the Bengals game. Aiming to step up further, he prepares to face a formidable Bears squad.

Career Highlights:

• Started games: 18 (including his latest with the Tennessee Titans)
• Last noteworthy performance: Threw for 193 yards, one touchdown, and one interception against the Jacksonville Jaguars last season.

Additionally, rookie signal caller Will Howard will act as Rudolph’s backup, providing essential support during the game.

What’s Next for the Steelers?

As the Pittsburgh Steelers (6–4) gear up to face the Chicago Bears (7–3) this Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, all eyes will be on Mason Rudolph to see how well he can lead the team amidst the challenges posed by this injury. The Steelers will look to capitalize on their depth and strategy in this pivotal matchup against a competitive Bears team.

Key Takeaways:

• Aaron Rodgers is sidelined due to a wrist fracture.
• Mason Rudolph will start as quarterback, with rookie Will Howard as backup.
• The game against the Bears commences at 1 p.m. ET this Sunday.

For updates and more information on the game, check out NFL Game Day.

This matchup promises to be exciting as the Steelers strive to maintain their playoff aspirations despite the setback. Stay tuned for more updates!