The Pittsburgh Steelers are coming off an exhilarating road victory against the Las Vegas Raiders, boosting their 2024 record to 4-2. Now, they will host the New York Jets this Sunday night. The Jets, still reeling from another loss, have significantly upgraded their offense with the recent acquisition of Davante Adams.
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Jets' Aaron Rodgers speaks with former Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams after a game in 2023.
While the Jets boast a talented offensive roster, their struggles in winning games have made them desperate for a road victory in Pittsburgh. Aaron Rodgers is thrilled to have Adams back as a teammate, and the Steelers must prepare for him once again. Although Adams didn't play against the Steelers while with the Raiders due to injury, reports indicate he will suit up this Sunday with his new team.
Following the trade, Rodgers and Adams appeared on The Pat McAfee Show. During his usual Tuesday segment, Rodgers addressed Steelers fan Tone Digz, who asked if he was ready for the raucous atmosphere that Steeler Nation would bring. Rodgers praised the Steelers fans, expressing his excitement to face off against them in Pittsburgh.
"There are some special places to play in the league and then there are a few that are really special. I would say Pittsburgh is one of those places. For me, it’s the history of it, I grew up watching old VHS tapes of Super Bowl highlights… the '70s was the Steelers."
Rodgers reflected on all the games he has played in Pittsburgh, even including preseason matchups. Steelers fans certainly remember the Super Bowl when Rodgers led his team to victory against them, but his comments about the fan base and the organization were genuinely gracious.
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Steelers' TJ Watt chases down Packers' Aaron Rodgers during an away game.
He went on to share heartfelt words about Mike Tomlin and the Steelers franchise, emphasizing the respect he holds for both.
"They got a great fan base. They have a great home field advantage and they got one of my favorite coaches and people in the league in Mike Tomlin. They play that Renegade in the fourth quarter. You know what’s coming. It’s a great place to play, it’s a loud, tough environment."
Rodgers also took the opportunity to highlight one of his least favorite memories from playing in Pittsburgh. It dates back to the 2009 game when the Steelers narrowly defeated the Green Bay Packers 37-36.
Early in that contest, Lawrence Timmons delivered a punishing hit that knocked Rodgers to the ground. He recalled that moment as the hardest hit he has ever taken in his career.
"I remember first time in 2009, they brought middle dog pressure and Lawrence Timmons hit me the hardest I have ever been hit in my life right in the chin. I was like, 'Man, I hope it’s not like this all night.'"
Rodgers has faced the Steelers only twice in the regular season, winning one game and losing the other. In those matchups, he has thrown for 631 yards and five touchdowns against Pittsburgh.
It's always a challenge going up against one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, especially now that he has his all-time favorite offensive weapon back in Adams, thanks to the recent trade.
Steelers' Matchup Against The Jets Set To Produce Must-Watch Football
On Sunday night, the Steelers will aim to create another tough memory for Rodgers by securing a win. The Jets are desperate for a victory, while the Steelers are eager to build on their momentum and stack more wins.
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A plethora of Steelers fans wave the famous Terrible Towel during a home football game in Pittsburgh, PA.
This matchup promises to be electrifying, with the Steelers' star-studded defense tasked with slowing down a Jets offense filled with talent. For Steelers fans, hearing Rodgers speak fondly about their fan base and recalling the Timmons hit adds an intriguing layer to their history.
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