{
  "id": 905031,
  "title": "No clear early front-runner in the Steelers backup QB derby as Rudolph, Howard and Allar all shine",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/no-clear-early-front-runner-in-the-steelers-backup-qb-derby-as-905031",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-14T19:53:02.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Associated Press",
    "slug": "associated-press",
    "url": "https://apnews.com/article/pittsburgh-steelers-will-howard-drew-allar-mason-rudolph-c65a04d3f3a3fd069a1f650936d27813"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Drew Allar, a third-round pick, performed impressively during his preseason debut against the Green Bay Packers, as reported by the Associated Press. Allar, who missed the entirety of the 2025 season due to a left ankle injury, threw for two touchdowns and ran for another in the second half. However, he acknowledged that his coach, coach Mike McCarthy, might give him a \"minus grade\" for his footwork on one play. Allar's productivity was bolstered by his ability to make the right decisions on where to pass the ball and his impressive athleticism, which shone through as he dove over the goal line for a 3-yard touchdown run. Will Howard, who played for the first time since the 2025 College Football Playoff championship season, also contributed to the Steelers' victory. Howard, a former Ohio State star, excelled in running the two-minute offense and displayed poise under pressure when he rolled to his left to deliver a quick pass to wide receiver Ben Skowronek for a first down.",
  "summary": "PITTSBURGH (AP) — If only Mike McCarthy graded on production, then Drew Allar would be in for smooth sailing when the…",
  "key_points": [
    "Drew Allar, Steelers backup QB, had impressive preseason debut",
    "Will Howard, Ohio State star, contributed to Steelers' win",
    "Rudolph's performance not mentioned in article"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}