The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the New York Jets 34-32 in Week 1, but there’s still room for improvement after the team’s first game of the season.
One area that could use some work is the offensive line. Aaron Rodgers was sacked four times in his Steelers debut and the team managed just 53 rushing yards on 20 attempts (2.65 yards per carry).
Mike Tomlin agreed, calling out the offensive line and saying, “Our quarterback got hit too much.”
In particular, left tackle Broderick Jones has drawn criticism after allowing three of the sacks on Rodgers. According to Pro Football Focus, he finished with the lowest pass-block grade (46.8) of the team’s offensive linemen.
The pressure didn’t stop Rodgers from having one of his best games in recent memory, finishing with four passing touchdowns and 244 passing yards on 22-of-30 passing.
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The four-time NFL MVP stood up for Jones on Wednesday, telling reporters that he “ran into a sack or two” and praising his 24-year-old teammate.
“I really like Brod and got to know him during training camp. I like what he’s about. I like his attitude,” Rodgers said. “He’s a genuinely positive guy and I’ve got a lot of confidence in him watching my back.”
At 41, Rodgers can’t escape pressure like he used to and is going to get sacked sometimes. However, his teammates need to give him as much protection as possible and give him time to throw.
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Jones will look to bounce back with a better performance at home against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2. The Seahawks only sacked Brock Purdy once during their 17-13 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1, so they may try to dial up more pressure against Rodgers, especially after his big Week 1 performance.
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Featured image via Philip G. Pavely/Imagn Images