EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The Pittsburgh Steelers offense started hot on the first drive of Aaron Rodgers’ tenure as he led them right down the field against the New York Jets to score an opening drive touchdown.
Starting at their own 29, Rodgers hooked up DK Metcalf and Pat Freiermuth to convert 3rd-and-10s on the drive. Metcalf’s went for 23 yards on a fantastic play after the catch.
After two six yard plays to Jonnu Smith and Kenneth Gainwell, Rodgers went under center and found Ben Skowronek wide open on a crossing route for the touchdown. The 22-yard touchdown was the Steelers’ first opening drive touchdown since December 23, 2023. In addition to that, it was the first opening drive touchdown the Steelers have had since 2008.
Rodgers’ second drive did not end in the end zone, but did end in a field goal after an explosive play to Metcalf. That connection is already strong and seems to be something the team has fostered throughout the offseason.
Head coach Mike Tomlin wanted the team to get more explosive, and they already have three explosive plays in two drives. That hot start should give them confidence in what the offense has shown, though the defense has struggled just as much as the offense has thrived.
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