How do you slow down Aaron Rodgers? Todd Bowles’ unique defensive approach could give the Tampa Bay Buccaneers an edge against the Pittsburgh Steelers(Image via Getty Images)
Bowles has faced Rodgers four times as a head coach or defensive coordinator and holds a 2-2 record against him. His most convincing win came in October 2020, when Tampa Bay defeated Green Bay 38-10. Rodgers finished that game with 160 passing yards, no touchdown passes and two interceptions.
Bowles’ defense also helped Tampa Bay beat Green Bay in the NFC Championship Game that season, sending the Buccaneers to Super Bowl LV.
Even at 42, the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback knows how to read a defense before the ball leaves his hands. His disguised coverages have limited Rodgers to a career raw QBR of 33.9 against Bowles’ defenses, giving Tampa Bay a potential advantage ahead of their October 18 matchup. Tampa Bay enters Week 6 at 1-4, while Pittsburgh holds a 3-2 record. Rodgers has a career raw QBR of 33.9 against Bowles when the coach uses disguised coverage, according to ESPN reporter Jenna Laine’s Week 6 preview. Rodgers’ QBR against disguised coverages overall stands at 54.6. Tampa Bay’s defense has shown promise despite the team’s 1-4 start. It ranks among the NFL’s top 10 in total yards allowed, rushing yards allowed and third-down defense. The unit also forced three takeaways in a 24-16 win over Dallas on October 11.
Because of a thumb injury, Bowles’ defense could have to do more of the heavy lifting, with Baker Mayfield likely to miss another game.
“It’s a nightmare game planning against him,” Bowles said. Aaron Rodgers has spent years making life difficult for NFL defenses. However, Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles has found a way to give him trouble. The Buccaneers need that edge. Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels is expected to start at quarterback again, leaving little room for the defense to give Rodgers an easy afternoon. “He’s extremely intelligent. His football IQ is unbelievable. That is where disguises come in.
Instead of showing Rodgers the coverage he will face, Bowles can present one look before the snap and change the picture once the play starts.