Aaron Rodgers’ Return Sparks Anticipation for Steelers vs Bills Showdown
The Buffalo Bills are gearing up for a pivotal Week 13 clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking their second consecutive road game. This time, however, they will not have the benefit of facing a backup quarterback. After resting their star signal-caller Aaron Rodgers due to a broken left wrist—his non-throwing hand—in their November 23 matchup, the Steelers are optimistic about his return. Head coach Mike Tomlin provided an encouraging update following a narrow 31-28 defeat to the Chicago Bears, stating, “I anticipate him being ready for next week. It was a prudent decision to make. Certainly, it wasn’t a fluid week for him. It was a fluid week for Mason in terms of reps and so forth. I think it will be in our rearview as we move forward. I’m hopeful of that.”
Backup Performance Under Pressure
While Rodgers observed from the sidelines, Steelers’ backup Mason Rudolph stepped in and delivered a respectable performance, completing 24 of 31 passes for 171 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Bills fans may have a vivid memory of Rudolph; he was the starting quarterback during the 2023 Wild Card game at Highmark Stadium.
The Bills, on the other hand, faced their own challenges in a recent game against the Houston Texans, where they struggled against backup quarterback Davis Mills. Mills managed to throw for two touchdowns without any interceptions, notably slicing through Buffalo’s defense on a crucial two-minute drill before halftime. This pivotal drive saw him complete five passes for 75 yards, culminating in an eight-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Higgins, which ultimately helped Houston secure a 23-19 victory.
Rodgers’ Impressive Season Ahead
Looking ahead to the November 30 matchup against the Steelers, the Bills are bracing for a familiar foe in Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP. Despite his age—he will turn 42 during the season—Rodgers has shown impressive form throughout the current campaign with the New York Jets. So far, he has completed 66.4 percent of his passes over ten games, accumulating 1,916 yards, 19 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
With Rodgers back on the field, the stakes are high as both teams prepare for what promises to be an electrifying encounter, raising the intensity and anticipation for fans on both sides.
