In the NFL, being the most annoying can sometimes go hand-in-hand with being the most unforgettable. Just ask Aaron Rodgers, who recently found himself atop a dubious list while simultaneously reminding everyone why he’s still one of the game’s elite quarterbacks.

A recent survey by Action Network crowned Rodgers as the NFL’s most annoying player off the field, with 27% of fans pointing the finger at the Jets’ signal-caller. He edged out Travis Kelce (17%) and Patrick Mahomes (8%) for the not-so-coveted title. But on Monday night, Rodgers flipped the script, leaving even his critics slack-jawed with a play that had Patrick Mahomes tweeting, “Why is Aaron so good at that?”

The play in question? A 60-yard Hail Mary heave as time expired in the first half against the Buffalo Bills. With the Jets trailing 20-10 and the clock showing zeroes, Rodgers uncorked a moonshot that found Allen Lazard in the end zone. The throw traveled roughly 60 yards in the air, a feat that had NBA superstar LeBron James chiming in on social media with a simple, “Right!! It’s ridiculous!”

This moment of brilliance came during a tumultuous week for the Jets, who had just fired head coach Robert Saleh. It was a stark reminder that even as Rodgers ruffles feathers off the field, his on-field magic remains undeniable. The Hail Mary cut the Bills‘ lead to 20-17 at halftime, breathing life into a Jets team that seemed on the ropes.

It’s a well-known truth in the world of sports fandom that Rodgers can inspire both glory and annoyance in equal measure. The same qualities that make him a thorn in the side of 43% of Chicago Bears fans—likely due to years of torment in the Packers-Bears rivalry—also make him a marvel to watch on the gridiron.

The Aaron Rodgers paradox

One intriguing aspect of sports fandom, underscored by the disconnect between Rodgers’ popularity contest results and his highlight-reel plays, lies in this paradox. How can a man described as the league’s biggest irritant suddenly earn acclaim from both his peers and rivals alike?

Part of the answer is rooted in rivalries. Fans of opposing teams, particularly those who have been on the receiving end of Rodgers’ heroics, are more likely to find his off-field persona grating. But even the most ardent critics cannot deny the artistry of a perfectly thrown Hail Mary.

When it comes to perceptions of Aaron Rodgers, age can also play a significant role. The survey showed that older generations were particularly likely to have complaints about the quarterback. Yet, at the same time, those very fans are often the ones best positioned to appreciate the remarkable things Rodgers can do; they have watched hour after hour of NFL play over the decades.

The Hail Mary pass that stunned Buffalo wasn’t just spectacular; it was a reminder of why Rodgers is still a name worth remembering, even in a league constantly searching for the next big thing. At a time when Josh Allen was “cooking and showing the form that generated early MVP buzz,” (Yahoo News) it was 39-year-old Aaron Rodgers who stole the media spotlight.

This dual nature–the capacity to be both loved and loathed –is perhaps that quality that most separates the good players from great ones in professional sports. It’s a tough balance to maintain, but it’s one Rodgers seems to have down pat.