The NFL didn’t make things easy for the New York Jets and four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers by scheduling their first three games in just 11 days. The Tennessee Titans face a different kind of challenge.
Although they are back in Music City for their home opener on Sunday, they go from facing a rookie quarterback, Caleb Williams, who was the top pick in the draft, to dealing with a Super Bowl champion in his 20th NFL season. Rodgers can exploit defenses with his play-calling and throw touchdown passes with ease.
Two-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons said Rodgers probably has the best hard count, even better than Titans offensive line expert Bill Callahan. Simmons also mentioned that Rodgers knows how to avoid getting hit.
“He don’t give you the opportunity to hit him,” Simmons said.
The Titans began their season with a 24-17 loss in Chicago. Tennessee had a strong defensive showing, allowing only 148 yards, which was their best season-opening performance in nearly 30 years.
However, a 17-0 lead was lost due to three turnovers by Will Levis, including a pick-6, and a blocked punt returned for a touchdown.
The Jets lost 32-19 on Monday night to San Francisco. Both teams are trying to avoid starting the season 0-2, but the Jets are on the road again and will face New England on Sept. 19 with an even quicker turnaround.
“It’s going to be a great challenge,” Jets coach Robert Saleh said.
Rodgers watched the end of the Jets’ loss from the bench. This was his first game since his season-ending Achilles tendon injury in the 2023 opener. He completed 13 of 21 passes for 167 yards, with his lone touchdown pass coming from a free play when the 49ers jumped offside.
He wants the Jets to stay on the field for more than 49 plays on Sunday.
“We’ve got to help our defense out,” Rodgers said. “You know, if it takes 30 to win, we’ve got to score 30, so it wasn’t good enough on our part. I hope nobody’s getting frustrated. It’s one week.”
