In an electrifying high-scoring matchup, Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers triumphed 34-32 against the New York Jets in Week 1 of the 2025 regular season. Rodgers showcased his exceptional talent by throwing four touchdown passes against his former team, solidifying his role as the Steelers' new starting quarterback.
The pivotal moment of the game arrived when Chris Boswell nailed a career-long 60-yard field goal, giving the Steelers a lead they would not relinquish with just over a minute remaining. The Steelers' defense sealed the victory when newcomer Jalen Ramsey broke up Justin Fields' fourth-down pass with 25 seconds left on the clock.
Despite trailing for most of the game, Pittsburgh made a remarkable comeback, scoring two touchdowns in under a minute early in the fourth quarter. This surge was fueled by a forced fumble from the Steelers' special teams, which aided in setting up one of Rodgers' touchdown passes. The Jets did manage to briefly regain the lead, but an 11-yard completion from Rodgers to DK Metcalf positioned Boswell for the game-winning field goal.
Rodgers finished the game with impressive stats, recording 244 passing yards with a completion rate of 22 out of 30 attempts. In contrast, Fields, in a losing effort, threw for 218 yards and one touchdown while also contributing two rushing touchdowns. The game commenced with a flurry of scoring drives, with the Jets taking a 19-17 lead into halftime.
Rodgers' first drive as a Steeler culminated in a touchdown pass to Ben Skowronek, while Fields responded with a 33-yard touchdown pass to former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson.
The cornerstone of the Steelers' success was undoubtedly the stellar performance of their four-time league MVP, Rodgers. Despite not joining the Steelers until minicamp, he demonstrated remarkable chemistry with his new teammates. Rodgers was particularly effective in high-pressure situations, converting critical third-and-long scenarios that set up scoring opportunities. The Steelers excelled in the red zone, finishing a perfect 3-for-3 inside the Jets' 20-yard line.
Pittsburgh's special teams also played a crucial role, with Boswell successfully making both field goals and all four point-after attempts. Notably, the special teams unit contributed to the Steelers' offensive momentum by creating turnovers, such as the fumble recovery that led to Rodgers' touchdown pass early in the fourth quarter.
New York's loss came despite a commendable offensive outing and a strong defensive front led by Will McDonald IV and Quinnen Williams. The Jets struggled with pass defense and suffered from special teams mistakes, including a critical fumble from Xavier Gibson and two missed two-point conversion attempts. Coach Aaron Glenn opted to go for two points after a penalty on their first point-after attempt, but they failed to convert.
New York's second two-point miss came after Fields' second touchdown run, leaving the door open for the Steelers to reclaim the lead with a field goal, which they executed flawlessly.
The turning point of the match occurred when Pittsburgh, trailing 26-17 entering the fourth quarter, surged ahead with two quick touchdowns in just 50 seconds. The first was a short completion from Rodgers to Jonnu Smith, followed by an 18-yard touchdown to Calvin Austin III after a Jets turnover on special teams.
Ironically, despite the game being dominated by offensive plays, the decisive moment came from a defensive stand. Ramsey's crucial hit on Wilson resulted in a turnover on downs, allowing the Steelers to secure their victory.
In the postgame interview, Coach Mike Tomlin praised Boswell, stating, "Our kicker is a serial killer. He's got a low pulse rate, and he's ready to deliver." Meanwhile, Rodgers expressed satisfaction with the win, saying, "There’s a lot of garbage being talked about myself or Arthur Smith. We’ve got a great relationship. He called a really good game. Happy to be 1-0."
As the Steelers prepare for their home opener against the Seattle Seahawks next Sunday, the Jets are set to face off against division rivals, the Buffalo Bills, who are the five-time defending AFC East champions. With both teams eager to build on their Week 1 performances, fans can expect another thrilling week of NFL action.
