Aaron Rodgers is officially in limbo. He could either play out the season, and make it the first time since 2016 he played the full season, or take the next two weeks off to get ready for 2019. Rodgers said he would like to continue to play until the season ends for the Packers. When asked by reporters if he would be upset if Brian Gutekunst or Joe Philbin asked to see what DeShone Kizer could do in the final two games, he said ‘Probably’ which is the nice way of saying ‘Yeah they’re no fucking way.’ Albeit those comments, let’s break down the reasons for playing Rodgers the final two weeks versus sitting him on the bench.

FOR
Rodgers said it himself in the press conference but get their first road win of the year. Packers could go winless on the road for the first time since 1978 if they lose to New York on Sunday next week. Rodgers would likely want to try and end that streak before 2019. That is an ugly thing to hang over your head for the entire offseason then get reminded of it when the first road game happens for Green Bay in September. Jets are the easiest opponent Green Bay faced all season on the road which is a crazy thought. Sad thing is their road schedule is just as tough next year.

The other part is to beat the Lions. Funny enough, Detroit carries a three-game winning streak against the Pack. They haven’t beat Green Bay four straight times since the early 80’s. Packers also get an undefeated season at home this year if they were to beat Detroit. Another factor that has to be considered is the star quarterback wanting to show management how well they play under Joe Philbin.

AGAINST
The against side is really simple. It’s two things. Injury and a high draft pick. If Rodgers were to get hurt in these final two games seriously, the Packers would never hear the end of it. Granted, a serious late season injury can be handled with an offseason of a potential roster add, but still, why risk it? You make too much money to be putting yourself in danger? Another concussion or collarbone injury is the last thing the Packers or Rodgers wants to worry about heading into 2019.

Draft pick is a weird one. The players do not give a fucking shit about where the team is drafting next season. They do not. Gutekunst can talk to guys about it, but there’s no reason unless the tank is agreed upon. Using the playoff machine in the weirdest way possible, the difference in draft picks is roughly five. Green Bay could be around 6th or 7th if they lose out, and if they win the last two, it’s around 12th or 13th. Big factor with the former is the Packers tie works against him with other five win teams having eleven losses, therefore, it’s not as impactful.

Even though, I thought Rodgers should sit after today’s game, I feel like he should play if he wants to. It’s ultimately his choice. If he wants to play, the Packers should let him do that. If he wants to relax and be scotch drunk on the sidelines, that’s his choice as well.

Charlie.