With Week 17 on deck, the playoff picture is starting to take shape - and the Pittsburgh Steelers, led by veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, are right in the thick of it. At 9-6, they’re on the doorstep of clinching both a playoff berth and the AFC North crown. But as is often the case this time of year, a little help from around the league could go a long way.
Here’s where things stand: Pittsburgh can lock up the division and punch their ticket to the postseason if the Baltimore Ravens fall to the Green Bay Packers on Saturday night at Lambeau Field. That game kicks off the weekend’s drama, and the result will set the tone for what’s at stake when the Steelers take the field on Sunday in Cleveland.
If the Ravens lose, Pittsburgh walks into Sunday’s matchup against the Browns already crowned AFC North champs. If Baltimore wins, Rodgers and the Steelers will need to handle business on the road against a tough Cleveland defense anchored by Myles Garrett. Either way, the division could be decided before Rodgers even takes a snap.
When asked about the scenario, Rodgers didn’t flinch.
“Well, it’s an eight o’clock game,” Rodgers said, referring to the Packers-Ravens matchup. “So by the time that game finishes, I’ll be sleeping hopefully. I’m preparing to play and excited about playing.”
That’s vintage Rodgers - focused, unfazed, and ready to go regardless of the situation. Even at 42, he’s still approaching each game with the same edge and preparation that’s defined his career. And while the playoff math might be swirling around him, he’s not letting it shift his mindset.
Meanwhile, over in Green Bay, the Packers are navigating their own playoff path. They can clinch a postseason berth with a win over Baltimore - a result that would also help Rodgers and the Steelers. But the Packers have a few other outs: they can also get in with a tie, or if the Detroit Lions lose or tie against the Minnesota Vikings.
So yes, for one week at least, there’s a shared rooting interest between Rodgers and his old team. If Green Bay handles business, Pittsburgh benefits. And if the dominoes fall just right, Rodgers could be waking up Sunday morning with a playoff spot and a division title already secured.
But make no mistake - whether or not the Ravens lose, Rodgers is preparing like Sunday’s game in Cleveland is a must-win. Because in the NFL, especially in late December, you don’t count on help. You go out and earn it.