Rodgers, Metcalf embracing first regular season game in Ireland

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PITTSBURGH, Pa. (BLACK AND GOLD NATION) - Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is thrilled to play in the first regular season game being held in Ireland. During his press conference on Wednesday, the 41-year-old spoke about wanting to fly there earlier this week and get one of his favorite refreshments.

"Guinness, Guinness on tap is my favorite beer in the world," Rodgers joked.

While Mike Tomlin is stressing that this is a "business trip," players recognize how rare it is to suit up in an international game.

Wide receiver DK Metcalf has a unique experience on being a part of a team to be the first to play in another country. Back in 2022, Metcalf shined in the first regular season game held in Germany.

"I think it's just an amazing experience because I've never been to Germany, so it gave me an opportunity to travel," Metcalf said. "The ultimate goal there was to win a football game. We came up short, but, this is just another opportunity for us to go to another country, see another country, but also play in front of some fans that really don't know what we do for a living. So we've just got to put a good product on the field."

Metcalf takes pride in trying to deliver a "good product." He knows it's not an every Sunday occurrence for countries such as Ireland and Germany to host games. Metcalf witnessed how much those fans appreciated even the smallest moments.

"They're filled with excitement," Metcalf said of international fans. "They cheer for first downs, they cheer for kick offs, they just cheer for anything, a penalty on the opposing team. So anything that they see happening on the field, they're just going to cheer."

For Rodgers, he's looking forward to the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring football to Ireland.

"I have Irish heritage, so I'm very excited to get out there," said Rodgers. "It's great for the game to grow in so many countries and so being a part of the first game in Ireland is pretty cool."

The NFL has upped its efforts to spread American football across the world over the past few years. Including Ireland, the league is also playing in Spain for the first time ever.

Seven international games will take place in the NFL this season. Sunday's matchup will be the second after the Chargers beat the Chiefs in Week 1 in Brazil.

List of International Games

* Chargers 27, Chiefs 21 [Sept. 5 in São Paulo]

* Vikings vs. Steelers [Sept. 28 in Ireland]

* Vikings vs. Browns [Oct. 5 in London]

* Broncos vs. Jets [Oct. 12 in London]

* Rams vs. Jaguars [Oct. 19 in London]

* Falcons vs. Colts [Nov. 9 in Berlin]

* Commanders vs. Dolphins [Nov. 16 in Madrid]

The Steelers and Minnesota Vikings play at Croke Park on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 9:30 a.m. EST.