In a dazzling display of skill and nerve, Aaron Rodgers powered the Pittsburgh Steelers to a stunning 34-32 victory over the New York Jets in their highly anticipated season opener. With four touchdown passes against his former team, Rodgers showcased exactly why he’s considered among the elite in football.

The Steelers initially struggled, trailing for much of the game, but turned the tide dramatically in the fourth quarter. An electric 60-yard field goal from Chris Boswell, the longest of his career, put Pittsburgh ahead for good with just over a minute remaining.

A Game of Momentum Swings

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring five consecutive scoring drives early on. The Jets managed to take a narrow 19-17 lead into halftime. Rodgers struck first with a touchdown pass to Ben Skowronek, only for Jets quarterback Justin Fields to respond with a 33-yard touchdown connection to Garrett Wilson.

As the game progressed, New York briefly regained the lead thanks to Fields' impressive performance, where he threw for 218 yards and ran for two touchdowns. However, the Steelers' resilience shone through in the second half.

Steelers' Star Player: Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers, who joined the Steelers only for minicamp, had a remarkable game, completing 22 of 30 passes for 244 yards. His ability to maneuver during crucial third-and-long situations proved pivotal, allowing the Steelers to convert critical plays and secure touchdowns.

The first of these came right at the start of the fourth quarter, setting the tone for a furious comeback. Notably, the Steelers converted perfectly in the red zone, going three for three inside the Jets' 20-yard line.

Pittsburgh’s special teams also played a vital role, with Boswell nailing both field goals and all extra points, while the unit capitalized on a forced fumble by Kenneth Gainwell.

Unraveling for the Jets

Despite a spirited effort from Fields and a strong defensive front, the Jets faltered at key moments. Two missed two-point conversions proved costly, leaving the team unable to secure the win.

New Jets coach Aaron Glenn's aggressive strategy to go for two after an earlier missed attempt backfired, costing valuable points and momentum.

Breece Hall's ground game was a lone bright spot for New York, as he racked up 107 rushing yards, helping the Jets outgain the Steelers on the ground with 182 rushing yards compared to Pittsburgh's meager 53.

Deciding Moments of the Game

The defining moment came when the Steelers, trailing 26-17 at the start of the fourth, scored two quick touchdowns within 50 seconds. One was a short pass from Rodgers to Jonnu Smith, followed by an 18-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III after a special teams turnover.

In a fitting finale, Jalen Ramsey sealed the victory for Pittsburgh with a crucial defensive play, forcing a turnover on downs and denying the Jets one last chance to reclaim the lead.

Looking Ahead

Head coach Mike Tomlin praised Boswell's performance, calling him "a serial killer" when it comes to staying calm under pressure. Meanwhile, an upbeat Rodgers expressed satisfaction with his first game as a Steeler, stating, "Happy to be 1-0." Next, the Steelers will host the Seattle Seahawks in their home opener, while the Jets will look to bounce back against their division rivals, the Buffalo Bills.