Aaron Rodgers Injured in Steelers' Win Over Bengals
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Aaron Rodgers suffered a left wrist injury during the Pittsburgh Steelers' 34-12 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, raising concerns regarding his availability for upcoming games. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, reports indicate that Rodgers has a slight break in his non-throwing wrist, which could make it unlikely for him to play in the upcoming match against the Chicago Bears on November 23.
This injury occurred late in the first half when Rodgers was tackled illegally after an incomplete pass, leading to concerns about his health as he did not return for the second half of the game. Initially listed as questionable, Rodgers was ultimately sidelined, with the team turning to backup quarterback Mason Rudolph, who performed effectively, completing 12 of 16 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown.
The Steelers' head coach, Mike Tomlin, acknowledged Rodgers' injury, noting that further evaluation would be conducted the following day, but he emphasized the importance of the win, stating that he spoke with Rodgers only about the game and not the injury itself.
This win improved the Steelers' record to 6-4, putting them in a strong position in their division. However, the team is now faced with the challenge of adapting their offensive strategy without their veteran leader.
Notably, Rudolph has experience as a starter, having led the Steelers in previous seasons, including a playoff run last year. The Chicago Sun-Times also highlighted the historical context of Rodgers' rivalry with the Bears, noting his impressive record against them during his time with the Green Bay Packers, which adds another layer to the narrative should he miss that game.
Furthermore, the injury comes as the Steelers are looking to solidify their playoff hopes, and the absence of a seasoned quarterback like Rodgers could significantly impact their performance moving forward.
The Pittsburgh defense also played a crucial role in the victory, contributing two defensive touchdowns, showcasing the team's overall strength even amid injuries. As they prepare for the Bears, the Steelers will need to consider their options for the quarterback position, should Rodgers be unable to return, adding a layer of uncertainty to their playoff aspirations.