I've stayed at several properties of each chain. I can sum up my experiences as such:

At Travelodge hotels, you have a chance of getting something acceptable.

At Rodeway Inns, you have no chance of getting something acceptable.

With this said, I've stayed at Rodeways more than I care to admit, either because it's a great/mistake rate, or is/was a cheap redemption. I tell myself each and every time "it's only for a night or two, I can put up with anything for that long..."

Upon checking out, I've always regretted this thinking.

The only chain worse than Rodeways that I've physically stayed in is Knights Inn. Even Wyndham wouldn't keep them...