Packers Defeat Steelers 35-25 in Rodgers' First Primetime Game Against Former Team

Aaron Rodgers, now with the Pittsburgh Steelers, faced his longtime former team, the Green Bay Packers, in a high-profile Sunday Night Football game, marking a significant moment in his NFL career. Rodgers had a solid performance, completing 24 of 36 passes for 219 yards and two touchdowns, but the Steelers lost 35-25, with Rodgers expressing disappointment and emphasizing the importance of relationships built over his years in Green Bay. Despite the loss, Rodgers maintained a positive tone about reconnecting with former teammates and highlighted the strong play of his successor, Jordan Love, who led the Packers with an efficient and dynamic performance. The game also brought attention to Rodgers' use of smelling salts, a stimulant allowed by NFL rules, which he used to boost focus during the game. Criticism was directed at the Steelers' coaching staff for questionable decisions that may have contributed to the defeat, including defensive coverage choices and offensive play-calling. Overall, the game underscored both the emotional and competitive aspects of Rodgers' return to face his old team, framed by a mix of nostalgia, rivalry, and strategic challenges.