The Chicago Bears don't really have time to pay attention to what's happening in Pittsburgh right now. They're focused on trying to collect enough healthy bodies on defense. All three of their starting linebackers and two starting cornerbacks won't play. That leaves defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in a massive predicament. Most assume that Aaron Rodgers will play on Sunday despite breaking his wrist the week before. However, it appears there is no consensus on this front inside the Steelers' building.
While Rodgers is desperate to play, likely seeing it as his last chance to face the Bears before retiring, Pittsburgh doctors aren't as receptive to the idea. According to Adam Schefter, they've urged caution against letting Rodgers play, fearing the wrist will be susceptible to a more significant injury before it has had a chance to heal. Even with a brace, there is no guarantee it will help much. One big hit or even a hard enough snap under center could lead to disaster.
Per usual, everything with Rodgers has to be a circus.
Smart money says Aaron Rodgers will get his way.
He's a future Hall of Famer. Teams usually give such players more say on whether or not they can play in games. If Aaron Rodgers is pushing to play Sunday, it's hard to imagine head coach Mike Tomlin will go against him. That said, Pittsburgh is in an awkward spot. If Rodgers aggravates the injury, there is a serious chance he could miss the rest of the season. That would seriously hamper their chances of winning the division. If sitting Rodgers even one week allows the injury to heal a little more, it might be worth drawing his ire.
A betting man would be wise not to get caught up in the nose. The warning signs already indicate Rodgers will play. He's practiced each of the past two days, even if it was in a limited fashion. Unless the doctors make a concerted effort to prevent it, the quarterback will play in this game. The Bears are likely preparing for that eventuality.
