Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers Has Chance at Historic Moment vs. Packers
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has already passed some all-time great quarterbacks in the record books early this season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. On Sunday against his former team, Rodgers will have an opportunity to tie a mark that can’t be surpassed.
If Rodgers leads the Steelers to a victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football, the veteran signal-caller will have a regular season win against all 32 NFL franchises.
Only four quarterbacks have accomplished that feat in league history — Brett Favre, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees and Tom Brady.
Sunday will be the first time Rodgers faces the Packers in his career. The signal-caller spent 18 years in Green Bay. During his tenure, he won four MVP awards and led the franchise to a fourth Super Bowl title.
In 230 regular season games with the Packers, Rodgers posted a 147-75-1 record as a starter. He also tossed 475 touchdowns and threw for 59,055 yards.
Aaron Rodgers Set to Face Packers on Sunday Night Football
Rodgers already had a grudge match in the season opener. That was against the New York Jets, who traded for the veteran quarterback from the Packers two years ago.
The Jets released Rodgers in March. The quarterback voiced that he didn’t care for how the move happened over the offseason, which led to ill-will at least from the quarterback.
Rodgers squaring off against the Packers won’t quite have the same drama. But it’s arguably a bigger deal since his tenure was so long in Green Bay.
Rodgers’ 475 touchdowns with the Packers is third most for any quarterback with a single team in NFL history. His 59,000-plus passing yards also ranks in the top 10 for signal-callers with one franchise.
Rodgers’ four MVP awards is second only to Manning in NFL history. Rodgers is also tied with Manning for the most MVP awards with one team.
Entering Week 8, Rodgers is one of seven quarterbacks with wins against 31 teams. One of those seven other quarterbacks is Ben Roethlisberger, who defeated every team in the league except the Steelers.
Obviously, Roethlisberger never played against the Steelers in his career.
Steelers-Packers Battle of First-Place North Teams
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur set the tone for the week Monday when he addressed facing his first starting quarterback as a head coach.
“We’re playing the Pittsburgh Steelers, who happen to have Aaron Rodgers,” LaFleur told reporters Monday. “It’s as simple as that. That is for you guys to talk about.”
It’s likely the Steelers coaching staff and players, including even Rodgers, will feel that way too.
Coming off a loss against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Steelers will be trying to avoid consecutive defeats for the first time this season on Sunday night. With a win, Pittsburgh can also maintain its healthy lead in the AFC North.
Things can change quickly in the NFL. But through seven weeks, the NFC North has been more competitive than the AFC’s northern division.
Every team in the NFC North is at least .500. The Detroit Lions won again Monday night to move within percentage points of the Packers.
Green Bay must win to remain ahead of the Lions, who will be on a bye during Week 8.
The Steelers-Packers matchup will kick off at 8:20 pm ET on NBC/Peacock.
Lamar Jackson's Focused Determination: 'I’ll Be Ready to Lead When the Time Comes'
Lamar Jackson's leadership has always been the cornerstone of the Baltimore Ravens, and his determination to return to the field following his injury is no different. Despite being sidelined with a hamstring injury, Jackson has shown an unwavering focus on getting back to full health and leading his team to success. "Right now, I’m focused on getting back to 100% and leading this team. I know what we’re capable of, and I’ll be ready when the time comes. The work doesn’t stop, and neither do I. It’s all about the next step in this journey," Jackson stated, reflecting his commitment to recovery and leadership.
Jackson’s message resonates deeply with the Ravens and their fan base. His ability to stay focused on the bigger picture, despite the setback, shows the kind of mental fortitude that makes him a great leader. This isn’t just about returning from an injury; it’s about ensuring that when he steps back on the field, he’s at his best and ready to elevate the team to new heights.
The Ravens have certainly felt Jackson’s absence, especially with the offensive struggles that have followed. However, Jackson’s confidence and optimism are contagious, and his teammates are eager for his return. "I know what we’re capable of," Jackson continued, underlining his belief in the team’s potential to overcome the challenges they’ve faced so far. His words are a rallying cry, reminding the Ravens that, while the road has been difficult, their goals are still within reach.
Jackson’s approach to recovery speaks volumes about his professionalism and commitment. Rather than rushing back before he is fully ready, he’s taking the time to ensure he’s back to 100%. His determination is not only about returning to action but also about leading his team with the energy and precision that made him an MVP and one of the league’s most dynamic quarterbacks.
As the Ravens look to the future, Jackson’s return will be pivotal in determining their success for the rest of the season. His leadership and playmaking ability are vital to their playoff hopes. "The work doesn’t stop, and neither do I," Jackson affirmed. This mentality is exactly what the Ravens need as they push toward a playoff spot.
In the coming weeks, Jackson will continue to focus on his recovery, but his mindset remains clear: when the time comes, he will be ready to lead the Ravens back to the top. And with his leadership, the Ravens know they’re capable of overcoming any challenge in their way.
