Duck Sighting at the Penguins Game

The Penguins had quite the royal audience for Wednesday’s game against the St Louis Blues. Pittsburgh Steelers Devin Bush and Devlin “Duck” Hodges were in attendance to watch the depleted Penguins roster take on the reigning Stanley Cup Champions, St. Louis Blues. Perhaps they can sympathize with the Penguins when it comes to major injuries.

Hodges’ appearance was just one day after Pittsburgh Steeler head coach Mike Tomlin announced that Hodges will start Sunday at quarterback against the Arizona Cardinals. The new Steelers QB signed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent on May 13 after an impressive tryout showing. Following an injury to starter Ben Roethlisberger, he was promoted to the active roster on Sept. 16. Hodges made his professional debut with the Steelers against the Baltimore Ravens on Oct. 6. He won his first NFL start in the Oct. 13 against the Los Angeles Chargers and threw for 212 yards and one touchdown last week in the Steelers 20-13 win over the division-rival Cleveland Browns which kept the Steelers in a playoff position.

Bush joined the Steelers organization as their first-round selection in the 2019 NFL Draft. The Steelers traded up from the 20th spot to tenth overall to select Bush from the University of Michigan, a move only done twice prior in the history of the franchise. Despite his rookie status, Bush continues to contribute on the Steelers elite defense and at the last Pro Bowl vote check, led the AFC in ILB vote-getters.

The PPG Paints Arena crowd erupted in cheers when the two Steelers rookies were shown on the videoboard. No introduction was needed. Perhaps Hodges or Bush can skate, the Penguins may soon need a few more healthy bodies.