Rodgers Shows Sparks of Former Form as Steelers Seek Playoff Push

Aaron Rodgers, now approaching 43, delivered a strong performance in the Steelers’ 16-10 victory against the New Orleans Saints in Paris, completing a 51-yard pass to DK Metcalf and scrambling for a first down on a crucial third-and-six. Despite the win, Rodgers said he was not satisfied with the offense’s overall play.

"I don’t think we played very good on offense today," Rodgers told reporter Molly McGrath.

The Steelers improved to 5-2, but their red-zone efficiency remained low, scoring only one touchdown in four trips. The team’s defense, however, has been a major factor, limiting the Saints’ run game and pressuring quarterback Tyler Shough. Pittsburgh’s run defense has reduced opponent yards per carry from 4.5 in the first four weeks to 2.8 over the last three, allowing just three touchdowns in the past 15 quarters.

Rodgers has thrown 13 touchdowns and five interceptions for 1,699 yards in his first seven games, comparable to Sam Darnold’s numbers during the Seahawks’ Super Bowl season. Saints linebacker Kaden Elliss praised Rodgers’ football intelligence.

"Even though he’s up there in age, I think that’s an advantage to him, his mind," Elliss said.

The quarterback’s experience and the defense’s resurgence have sparked talk of a possible deep playoff run, though analysts note that the AFC still features strong contenders such as Kansas City and Buffalo. Rodgers also commented on the league’s scheduling, suggesting that the 17-game format was chosen to generate additional revenue.

Beyond the field, Rodgers has faced criticism for past statements and behavior, but recent remarks indicate a more restrained public stance.

In other league news, the Cincinnati Bengals rallied from a 13-0 halftime deficit to defeat the Baltimore Ravens, with quarterback Joe Burrow throwing four second-half touchdowns. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured a 43-13 win over the Carolina Panthers largely on the ground, while Denver’s Bo Nix recorded a 62-yard rushing touchdown for the Broncos.

Additional updates include the Chiefs’ loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the Miami Dolphins’ victory over the New York Jets, the Minnesota Vikings remaining unbeaten at 6-0, and the Houston Texans falling to 2-5 after an overtime defeat to the New York Giants.