Full Breakdown
Rodgers Nears Record in Steelers-Colts Showdown
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Indianapolis Colts in Week 5, a game that could give veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers sole possession of third place on the NFL’s all-time passing-touchdown list. Rodgers and former Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning are tied at 579 career touchdowns, including playoffs. NBC noted that a touchdown pass by Rodgers on Sunday would raise his total to 580, moving him ahead of Manning. The outcome will determine whether Rodgers achieves this milestone in what he has said is his final NFL season at age 42.
Background & Context
Rodgers entered the 2025 season with the Steelers after a decade with the Green Bay Packers. The Steelers sit at 2-2, one game behind the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North, while the Colts are also 2-2 after losses to the Ravens and Chiefs. Both teams view the matchup as a chance to gain leverage in their divisions.
Data & Statistics
- Career touchdowns: Rodgers 579, Manning 579 (tied). A touchdown would bring Rodgers to 580 (NBC).
- Steelers offense: Ranked second-best when under center through four games.
- Colts offense: Rushing 109.5 yd/game (14th), passing 174.8 yd/game (26th).
- Colts defense: Allows 131.0 yd rushing (26th) and 261.3 yd passing (29th) per game; worst quarterback-pressure rate at 25.5 % (Next Gen Stats).
Official Statements & Responses
Team analysts highlighted the Steelers’ quick-tempo, no-huddle approach to give Rodgers more time in the pocket, while emphasizing the need for better execution on defense after a recent loss to the Browns. The Colts’ limited pass-rush productivity and injuries to key receivers were noted as factors that could benefit Pittsburgh’s passing attack.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Every play appeared to me that you have two vertical routes and then a couple underneath things. You gotta have levels. You gotta have somebody on a shallow, somebody breaking in over the top. I don’t know if it’s reactionary to people wanting to see the ball thrown down the field. You gotta have places for the quarterback to read it,” — Todd Haley
What’s Next
The Steelers-Colts game will decide whether Rodgers surpasses Manning’s total. Should he record a touchdown, he will move within striking distance of Drew Brees (2nd) and Tom Brady (1st). Rodgers has indicated this is his final season, adding personal significance to the milestone. The outcome will also influence the AFC North race and the Colts’ bid to climb out of an 0-2 start.
