From the Locker Room: Hodges, DeCastro on Dealing with Loss of Rudolph

PITTSBURGH – The Steelers were left with a sense of loss that goes well beyond just the final score following their 26-23 defeat at the hands of Baltimore on Sunday at Heinz Field. Mason Rudolph, who had been starting admirably for the injured Ben Roethlisberger, left the game with a concussion after a helmet-to-helmet hit by Earl Thomas. Pittsburgh’s next man up mentality was on display yet again when Devlin Hodges came in and replaced Rudolph.

All of a sudden Hodges found himself going from the practice squad the playing in an NFL regular season game against a hated rival. Hodges detailed his thought process when he saw his teammate laying on the field and how comfortable he is with the offensive game plan.

David DeCastro put everything into perspective for reporters while explaining the risk each player takes by just being out there on the field. DeCastro also touched on the decision to defer, putting the defense on the field first to start overtime.

While it won’t be easy, especially with seemingly every obstacle possible having occurred to this point, veterans like DeCastro will now face the challenge of keeping this team focused on what’s ahead. Next up for Pittsburgh is Philip Rivers and the Chargers in Los Angeles.