There’s no other way of putting it, Aaron Rodgers was left with too much time. The NFL Season is now well underway, and for Cowboys from a disappointing, it quickly became controversial. The post-game was more about Jerry Jones forbidding his players to protest the anthem than about their 35-31 loss.
It’s worth noting that no player kneeled during the intonation. After that, Damontre Moore and David Irving raised their fists, but none of the two stated that this was because of racial injustice and police brutality.
Jerry Jones was unaware of their actions, but he was very clear on his stance: “We know that there is a serious debate in this country about those issues, but there is no question in my mind that the National Football League and the Dallas Cowboys are going to stand up for the flag. So we’re clear: If there’s anything that is disrespectful to the flag, then we will not play. OK? Understand? If we are disrespecting the flag, then we won’t play. Period.”
Jones also commented that Colin Kaepernick would never get a chance with Cowboys, which was a clear sign that the NFL teams are avoiding him only due his beliefs, not his qualities.
As important as NFL players protesting, and Colin Kaepernick situation is, it’s a shame that it overshadowed two star quarterbacks on the night. The yesterday’s duel was a continuation of the 2016 Divisional round match, which also ended with Packers win. Both games have one thing in common. Aaron Rodgers was left with enough time to perform a football miracle.
In the last year’s playoff match he did enough to create a chance for his kicker Crosby to score a field goal. Last night he carried his team all up to end zone. It was 31-28 for Cowboys when Rodgers got the ball, 1:13 before the end of the game. After 75 yards, nine plays, he connected with Davante Adams for a TD.
It seems that despite Cowboys keeping the ball for most of the match, and managing time on a high level, they once again underestimated Rodgers. This is a lesson they are learning the hard way. Nevertheless, it is better for this defeat to happen now, than in the playoffs.
Despite a slow start (2-3), the Dallas Cowboys are still playoff contenders. Having a bye next week, they have enough time to reevaluate themselves and get back on track.
