Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has voiced criticism regarding head coach Mike McCarthy's play-calling following the team's 20-3 defeat to the New England Patriots. Rodgers, who was later benched for backup Mason Rudolph, suggested that the offensive struggles stemmed from the coaching staff's decisions.
"In a game like today where there wasn’t a lot of flow to it, we need to be better, and it starts with me," Rodgers stated in his postgame press conference. He then added, "Making sure that Mike knows what’s working and what’s not working. The coaches know, so that we can call stuff that gives us a better chance."
Rodgers completed 23 of 29 passes for 187 yards, with no touchdowns and one interception. He also fumbled the ball once, leading to a Patriots score. Through the first half of the game, Rodgers had managed only 84 yards on 22 passing attempts.
The Steelers' rushing game also faltered, with Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle accumulating just 91 yards on 23 carries.
Rodgers was eventually replaced by Rudolph late in the fourth quarter. The Steelers are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals next, whose defense has shown early-season strength.
