Aaron Rodgers says he won’t let the Packers’ playoff hopes determine when, or if, he returns this season, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t invested in Green Bay’s postseason outlook.
So, after an epic comeback win in Dallas on Sunday, the Packers remained at least involved in the playoff picture. Although, they would need some help from a few of their foes if they hoped to get in. Ravens kicker Justin Tucker provided a helping hand on Monday night, booting six field goals, including a 61-yard game-winner to take down the Lions, and Rodgers was quick to express his gratitude for the performance on Tuesday.
“I’d like to thank Justin Tucker off the top here for his performance last night,” Rodgers said to open his ESPN Milwaukee radio show. “Unbelievable. That 61-yarder was amazing. I didn’t quite get the three previous plays, but wow.”
With the loss, the Lions dropped to 7-7 on the season and into third place in the NFC North, behind both the division-leading Bears (8-6) and the Packers (7-6-1). That gives Green Bay a much easier path to the postseason, as now they just need to win out in order to make it into the playoffs.
“It’s amazing that we’re sitting here 7-6-1 with a chance to win two and be in [the playoffs],” Rodgers said.
Rodgers is still recovering from a fractured collarbone in his left arm, which he suffered against Chicago in Week 9. He’s now missed six games with the injury, and the Packers have gone 2-4-1, including the game in Chicago, in his absence. Rodgers may have a chance at revenge against the Bears, though, and with the postseason on the line, too. The two teams are set to meet for a potentially division-deciding tilt in Chicago in Week 17. First, the Packers will have to get through a surging Steelers team on Sunday, though.
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