Rodgers and Flacco: Veteran Duel in the “Icy Hot Bowl” of the NFL

Rodgers and Flacco: Veteran Duel in the NFL

In a matchup that evokes the old school of the NFL, Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco are preparing to star in a duel of veteran quarterbacks this Thursday. This encounter between the Steelers and the Bengals will mark a milestone in the history of the league. During a press conference, 41-year-old Rodgers was the subject of friendly jokes from his teammate, Cameron Heyward, who highlighted the age of the quarterbacks who will face each other on the field. “The most veteran quarterbacks playing this week, let’s go!” exclaimed Heyward. This game will represent only the second time in NFL history, both in the regular season and postseason, that two quarterbacks aged 40 or older will face each other as starters.

“I think it’s great for all the veterans,” Rodgers commented. “When I watch other sports, I tend to root for the older guys to win championships.”

Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers also highlighted Flacco’s long career in the league, emphasizing his role as an ambassador and his successful career. The only previous time this veteran quarterback matchup occurred was between Tom Brady and Drew Brees, who faced each other three times during the 2020 season. Rodgers suggested that these types of confrontations could be more common in the future, thanks to the care that NFL players dedicate to their bodies. In addition, he emphasized the importance of consistency to maintain a high level of play at an advanced age. Both quarterbacks have a long history in the league. Rodgers was selected 24th overall in the 2005 draft by the Green Bay Packers, while Flacco was chosen 18th overall in the 2008 draft by the Baltimore Ravens. Although Rodgers didn’t become a full-time starter until 2008, that same year Flacco led his team in his rookie season. Flacco was enthusiastic about this matchup, highlighting that both have been playing professional football since 2008. In his career against coach Mike Tomlin, Flacco has a 10-11 record as a starter, with a passer rating of 59.3, 25 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Steelers defensive coordinator Teryl Austin praised Flacco’s perseverance in the league, recalling his performance in 2024, where he threw for 168 yards and two touchdowns in the Steelers’ loss to the Colts. Austin highlighted Flacco’s mental fortitude and his ability to stand firm in his beliefs.

“He’s mentally tough,” Austin said. “He doesn’t let things bother him, he’s a good football player and he never wavers in that belief. I have a great appreciation for guys like him.”

Teryl Austin

The Thursday game promises to be a clash between two quarterbacks with powerful arms, a style that Rodgers admires in Flacco.

“I’ve always enjoyed watching him throw the ball,” Rodgers said. “He has one of the prettiest balls, with a tight spiral, a great long ball thrower. He’s one of the prototypical old-school quarterbacks, from the 2000s and 90s.”

Aaron Rodgers