By Chalien Dantes 

The Los Angeles Chargers’ defence made life miserable for Aaron Rodgers as the Pittsburgh Steelers fell 25-10 on Sunday night. 

Rodgers struggled all evening, finishing with 16 completions for 161 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions, and a fumble that he recovered in his own end zone for a safety. The Chargers also sacked him three times. Early in the first quarter, Rodgers tried to escape pressure, fumbled in his own end zone, and gave Los Angeles two points. Connecting with DK Metcalf proved difficult all night.

Rodgers overthrew him near the goal line, and later, another pass intended for Metcalf was intercepted by Chargers safety RJ Mickens. He managed only one completed pass in the third quarter, while the Steelers failed to capitalise on scoring opportunities and turned the ball over on downs.

Head coach Mike Tomlin kept the focus on the team rather than singling out Rodgers, letting the performance speak for itself. Rodgers’ lone touchdown came late in the fourth quarter, when he found Roman Wilson in the end zone.

The Steelers know they need to pick up the pace as the season enters its second half. They still hold a narrow lead over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North, though the Ravens are getting healthier, with Lamar Jackson returning to full strength.