New York Jets cornerback Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner recently shared some insights about the upcoming Week 1 showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers, now led by former Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The anticipation is building as Gardner’s Jets prepare to host Rodgers’ new team.
In a candid chat on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Gardner discussed the unique challenge of facing Rodgers once more. “Watching Aaron with the Steelers is a different ballgame. You can’t really study him because he’s so unpredictable,” Gardner noted, alluding to Rodgers’ knack for keeping defenses guessing by showing familiar tendencies but then deviating at the last moment. His game plan? Focus on the broader Steelers’ offensive scheme, including offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, and the team’s receivers and tight ends. This approach harks back to Gardner’s success against Rodgers during his rookie season when the Jets bested the Packers 27-10.
Reflecting on that memorable victory, Gardner recalls how he cheekily sported a cheesehead at Lambeau Field, a playful nod that didn’t go unnoticed by Rodgers. That past triumph, however, was more than just fun—it was a learning experience that Gardner has carried with him. “He might think he knows my tendencies,” Gardner said, hinting at the ongoing gamemanship and mutual respect. This offseason, he’s been focused on refining every aspect of his game, preparing for the wizardry Rodgers brings to the field.
Despite Rodgers’ sometimes controversial public persona, Jets teammates like running back Breece Hall frequently speak highly of him. Gardner echoed this sentiment, highlighting the invaluable lessons learned from Rodgers: “He’s taught me so much as a player.”
As the NFL season opener at MetLife Stadium draws near, all eyes will be on this intriguing matchup. Gardner is gearing up for a fresh chapter against Rodgers, a quarterback he knows well, as they face off in what promises to be an electrifying start to the season.
