Is QB controversy brewing after Trubisky leads Steelers to win in relief of Pickett?

Mitch Trubisky (10) of the Pittsburgh Steelers throws downfield during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. Michael Longo/For USA Today Network / USA TODAY NETWORK

Is QB controversy brewing after Mitch Trubisky leads Steelers to win vs. Buccaneers in relief of Kenny Pickett?

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 10/17/22

Former starter Mitch Trubisky showed his resilience on Sunday when he took over for an injured Kenny Pickett and led the Steelers to a 20-18 win over Tampa Bay. Pickett left the game with a concussion in the third quarter and didn't return, beginning the second act of Pittsburgh's quarterback competition.

So, who should start in Week 7 against the Dolphins if Pickett clears the concussion protocol?

Pickett looked good in the first half, outdueling Tom Brady and throwing his first career TD pass.

First half:

Kenny Pickett
10-15, 1 Pass TD, 97.1 Pass Rating

Tom Brady
10-21, 0 Pass TD, 63.6 Pass Rating pic.twitter.com/VgzDZnwZf0
— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) October 16, 2022

However, Trubisky had a good outing off the bench, throwing for 144 yards and a touchdown, posting a 142.4 passer rating, per Pro Football Focus. It was his best game of the season, but it might have been because he had nothing to lose after being replaced by Pickett two weeks ago, according to ESPN's Brooke Pryor.

Easily the best Mitch Trubisky's looked all season.

Easier to be aggressive when you've got nothing to lose.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) October 16, 2022

It would be surprising if Tomlin made another quarterback switch if Pickett is healthy, but if he doesn't get cleared and Trubisky plays well on Sunday night against Miami, there might be more of a discussion.

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