In a remarkable performance, Aaron Rodgers showcased his enduring talent by throwing four touchdown passes in his final game with the New York Jets, leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 31-26 victory. That’s because the game at MetLife Stadium on Sunday was a historic moment for the 41-year-old quarterback. He made history as the first player in NFL history to have consecutive four-touchdown games with different teams.
Rodgers was an incredible 22/30 for 244 yards. He proved his precision and performance under pressure ability, able to work with timing. His performance not only contributed to the Steelers’ win but solidified his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
Rodgers opened the game up marching his team down field with an incredible performance. He certainly didn’t look rusty, connecting on four of five passes for 62 yards and capping the Steelers’ first drive with a touchdown throw to wideout Ben Skowronek. This created an aggressive tone for the match that helped Pittsburgh get some early momentum.
As the game went on, Rodgers continued to demonstrate just how talented he was. O’donnell threw an 18-yard touchdown pass to Austin to put the Steelers ahead. His final touchdown pass of the afternoon put Pittsburgh ahead for good early in the fourth quarter. This play put the icing on their cake of a win over the Jets.
Rodgers said he was determined to have fun playing football again.
“I just wanted to have fun today.” – Aaron Rodgers
He acknowledged that there might have been doubts within the Jets organization regarding his ability to compete at a high level.
“There were probably people in the organization that didn’t think I could play anymore.” – Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers took a lot of heat for the manner in which the Jets bungled his exit. He was positive about his experience with the team, including comments directed towards new head coach Aaron Glenn.
“I gave as much as I could to the Jets, and it didn’t work out.” – Aaron Rodgers
The quarterback’s competitive fire really showed throughout the game. There was more than talent at play; he created an incredibly close bond among his teammates. The inspiration was very evident during the game, as Austin, who caught one of Rodgers’ touchdown passes, pointed out.
“We just wanted to play for each other, and play for 8.” – Austin
Rodgers owned up to his history with the Jets. As ominous as confronting them was, it paled in contrast to his decades-long experience with the Green Bay Packers, the NFL’s oldest franchise.
“Honestly, I was here for two years, but it doesn’t come close to how it’s going to feel playing Green Bay because that was 18 years in my career.” – Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers’ accomplishment made history as one of the most historical seasons in the storied history of the NFL. He became the first player since Ryan Fitzpatrick in 2010 to throw four touchdown passes against a former employer. His performance on Sunday showed that he is still one of the most dangerous players in the entire league, age be damned. So too are fans or NFL analysts, wondering what he’ll do for an encore.
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