When talking to reporters Wednesday, for the first time since the Jets bye, QB Aaron Rodgers issued a challenge to himself and his teammates on how they approach the final 6 games of the season.
"We are at the hardest point of the season, where things have been slipping away, and I want to see us as players find a way to be motivated," Rodgers said. "Brick [interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich] can put up a great quote or give us a good message, but it comes down to guys being motivated individually and wanting to play for something bigger than themselves."
Rodgers, who will turn 41 on Monday, has thrown for 2,442 yards, 17 touchdowns and 7 interceptions in 11 starts. The last 4 games have been some of his best. Since Week 8, he has completed 67% of his attempts for 7 touchdowns, 779 yards and no interceptions.
The recent string of games, however, have not brought the results Rodgers hoped for – losses to the Patriots, the Cardinals and the Colts, and a victory against the Texans. At 3-8, the chances of reaching the playoffs are dwindling, leaving Rodgers & Co. searching for internal motivation.
"When you win, everything is better," Rodgers. "If we win this one, things are going to get better, and if we win the one after, things will be even better. It is a full-time roll in the NFL, and I take that very seriously. I take my performances really seriously and even if it is easier when you're winning."
See the best photos of the Jets on the practice field during Wednesday's practice during Week 13.
Throughout the season, Rodgers has battled hamstring, knee and ankle injuries. He used the Week 12 bye to recharge mentally and physically and return to 1 Jets Drive refreshed and prepared for the home stretch.
"I definitely looked at some of the film and other things over the weekend regarding the offense," Rodgers said. "There are definitely some things that Todd [Downing] and I talked about moving forward and we are going to see if I can clean up some stuff, I haven't done great in the first 11 games."
The Jets Week 13 opponent, the NFC West-leading Seattle Seahawks (6-5), pose a unique challenge for Rodgers and the Green & White offense. The Seahawks defense ranks 15th in passing yards and touchdowns allowed, 13th in interceptions and the third-fewest explosive pass plays in the NFL.
In addition, Rodgers will also have history to play for Sunday at MetLife Stadium. After surpassing Dan Marino for the eighth-most passing yards in NFL history in the last game. With a touchdown pass to Davante Adams -- Rodgers and Adams would tie the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown for the fourth-most TD connections between two players in NFL history.
"I have a lot of pride in this game and in my team when I take the field or when I go out to practice," Rodgers said. "So, I will be excited about being out there with the guy's Sunday with the intention of finishing off the season strong."
