Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Ben Roethlisberger will not play this weekend against the Cleveland Browns, with Mason Rudolph instead getting the start in Cleveland.
Tomlin says the Steelers (12-3), who already have clinched a playoff spot, may rest more starters, but as of now, Roethlisberger is the only one he named.
“It does not change our intentions. … football is a game,” Tomlin said of resting players. “Our job is winning. We intend to do our job. .. we’re not seeking comfort. We’re not grading ourselves on a curve. … the standard that is the Pittsburgh Steelers will be the standard.”
Rudolph’s start comes a year after a fight marred the end of the teams’ game in Cleveland. Browns star Myles Garrett was suspended for ripping off and swinging Rudolph’s helmet, hitting the quarterback in the head with it, with seconds remaining in the game.
Cleveland (10-5) can make the playoffs with a win Sunday.
Information from ESPN’s Brooke Pryor was used in this report.