The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing significant challenges as they navigate their 2025 season. Following a disappointing 23-7 defeat to the Buffalo Bills in Week 13, starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers expressed concerns regarding the team”s preparation for games.
Rodgers remarked that while the team”s off-field strategies appeared to be on point, their on-field practice did not translate into effective execution during the game. “I thought the preparation, like I said, was better,” he said. “But the practice wasn”t as good as I thought it was. That doesn”t mean you”re going to have a bad performance, but the execution tonight just wasn”t good enough.”
When discussing the disconnect between preparation and practice, Rodgers explained that it encompasses various factors, particularly the energy and tempo during practice sessions. “It”s a lot of things,” he noted. “Kind of just a feeling. A lot of it is just the energy at practice and the tempo. So, we talked about and I thought Friday was better. But, I thought Thursday wasn”t a great tempo execution practice on offense.”
Rodgers emphasized the need for accountability across the entire team, starting with the leadership group. He reaffirmed his trust in head coach Mike Tomlin and the rest of the coaching staff, stating, “I believe in the coaching staff. I believe in Mike Tomlin. That”s why I came here. And players need to take accountability, myself included, and I will continue to. I need to play better.”
Additionally, he hinted at potential improvements moving forward, suggesting a greater focus on film study and communication among players. “When there”s film sessions, everybody shows up,” he commented. “When I check to a route, you do the right route.” This statement referred to specific errors during the game, including a miscommunication involving tight end Jonnu Smith, who ran the wrong route after Rodgers adjusted the play.
With five games remaining in the season, the Steelers must address these issues in practice to enhance their performance on the field. The responsibility now lies with the entire organization to refocus and prepare for the challenges ahead.
