NFL's Steelers and quarterback Aaron Rodgers aim to overhaul their losing streak against the Patriots.
In the upcoming matchup between the New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers, both teams bring unique strengths and challenges to the table.
For the Patriots, the potential return of cornerback Christian Gonzalez could bolster their defensive line. Gonzalez, who has been practicing and could potentially return this week, demonstrated his prowess in their previous matchup against DK Metcalf, limiting him to two catches for 10 yards on three instances.
However, the Steelers pose a significant threat downfield, a fact that teams are likely focusing on given their potential for deep passes. Pittsburgh's offense has yet to consistently test teams in this regard, with their longest pass completion being a 65-yard catch-and-run by Jaylen Warren.
On the ground, the Steelers have struggled, amassing just 125 yards so far, the third-lowest total in the league. This could present an opportunity for the Patriots to focus on stopping the run and forcing Pittsburgh to rely on their passing game.
For the Steelers, the arrival of Aaron Rodgers, in his first season with the team, adds a new dimension to their offense. However, Rodgers' deep ball accuracy has been limited thus far, with only one instance of a deep shot, an incomplete pass to Pat Freiermuth on a busted play.
The Steelers' defense, on the other hand, has been a concern. Ranking last in the NFL, allowing 315 yards per game through two games, their pass defense in particular has been under scrutiny, having allowed 791 yards so far this season.
In terms of history, the Steelers have struggled in New England. Since 2002, they have won only one game against the Patriots in New England. Aaron Rodgers, who has a 0-2 record in Gillette Stadium against the Patriots, will be aiming to change this narrative.
The Patriots, on the other hand, have won six of the past seven matchups in New England against the Steelers. Drake Maye, the Patriots' quarterback, who admired Peyton Manning as a child and models his grip on the football after Rodgers, will be looking to continue this trend.
If Gonzalez returns, he may be tasked with defending Pittsburgh receiver DK Metcalf. Meanwhile, the best way for Pittsburgh to open up the field could be by running the ball effectively, potentially creating room for Metcalf and others to run in a straight line.
At age 41, this may be Aaron Rodgers' last chance to win a game at Gillette Stadium. As both teams prepare for this highly anticipated matchup, fans are eager to see how these historical rivalries and individual matchups will play out on the field.
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