So how did Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers avoid absorbing his third concussion this year after being “blown up” (as FOX’s Troy Aikman put it) by Bears defensive end Julius Peppers?
Rodgers attributes his ability to knocked be knocked out and/or knocked out of the game to his new helmet.
“That was lucky,’' Rodgers told Peter King of Sports Illustrated. “As much as the new helmet feels uncomfortable and I’m still getting used to it, I’m really happy I was wearing it on that hit. . . .
“It hurt, I can tell you that. He hit me pretty good. I know what a concussion feels like. I’m just grateful this wasn’t hard enough to give me another one.’'
That said, the Packers by all appearances didn’t check Rodgers for a concussion, and Rodgers did nothing to suggest to anyone that he possibly had one. And, as we explained earlier today, we don’t blame him one bit for it.
It’s one thing to think about long-term (and short-term) health in the regular season. But if Rodgers would have told King or anyone else that, even with the new helmet, Rodgers is having headaches and is feeling dizzy, Rodgers would be jeopardizing what could be his only shot at ever playing in a Super Bowl.