Good morning, everyone. Since Week 3 is almost here for the Packers, I am here to give my thoughts about the game tomorrow. This week’s opponent for Green Bay is the Denver Broncos at Lambeau Field. Even though Denver is 0-2 right now, the Packers can’t take this home game for granted. It’s still up to Green Bay to execute on all three phases of the game. Here are my keys to the game for the Packers.
On offense, the key is to have a balance of run and pass. This way, the Broncos defense can’t focus on just one thing. I think that the running game is going to be very useful against this defense, as long as the offensive line creates the holes to run through. I think that it‘s very possible for the running game (led by Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams) to produce at least 150 rushing yards on the day.
With the passing game, a key is for the offensive line to protect QB Aaron Rodgers from any sacks and pressures. This time, it will be against the pass-rushing duo of Von Miller and Bradley Chubb. Even though the Broncos have not gotten any sacks or turnovers at this point, anything can happen. As long as Rodgers is protected by the O-Line, he should have plenty of time to find an open receiver. Speaking of the receivers, I think that it‘s time for the other receivers to have a big day in terms of production. Besides Chris Harris, Jr., the rest of the Denver secondary can be picked apart as long as the likes of Geronimo Allison and Marquez Valdes-Scantling can win their one-on-ones and come up with the catches. I also think that the running backs will be used in the passing game in creative, including wheel routes out of the backfield.
It is very important for the offense to protect the football against the Broncos defense. Even though this defense has not gotten a single takeaway, the Packers can’t mess up on offense in any way. Fumbles need to be avoided at all costs. Aaron Rodgers needs to throw accurately, which he usually does. It is also important to convert third downs to keep drives alive, especially in short-yardage situations. When the offense gets in the red zone, they need to get touchdowns instead of field goals to increase their lead.
On defense, the key is to make the Broncos offense one-dimensional. The way to do this is to shut down the running game, led by Philip Lindsay. If they can do that, then they can make life miserable for QB Joe Flacco. I think that the defensive front (led by Kenny Clark, Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith) can get past the Broncos’ offensive line with no problem. Even if they don‘t get the sack, pressuring the QB can force him to throw a ball that can easily be intercepted. Any one of the receivers can be dangerous when they are open, so it’s up to the defensive backs to cover them very well. Those defensive backs include Jaire Alexander, Kevin King, Adrian Amos and Darnell Savage. As always, it is up to the defense to create turnovers in any way. From strip-sacks to interceptions, any turnover will give the offense more chances to put points on the scoreboard. Another key for the defense is to stop the Broncos from converting any third downs, especially long ones. Doing that can help the offense win the time of possession battle.
On Special Teams, the key for the Packers is to avoid silly mistakes and penalties. With Trevor Davis traded to the Raiders, the new returner is Tremon Smith, who used to be with the Chiefs. Whoever returns the punts and kickoffs (including Tremon Smith) needs to make the most of the opportunities given. In other situations, they cannot make mistakes, like turning the ball over to Denver. Kicker Mason Crosby has to make all of his field goals and extra point kicks. Punter JK Scott needs to flip the field with his punts, which he has done very well so far. As long as Hunter Bradley snaps the ball accurately, everything should be smooth for punts and field goals. There is always a chance for Green Bay to block a field goal or punt. Last week, Tony Brown blocked an extra point attempt by Minnesota.
If the Packers do these things, then they will win the game and improve to 3-0 on the season. Stay tuned for my post-game thoughts on either Sunday night or Monday morning. Have a great day, everyone. Go Pack Go!
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