Today the Packers go back to work
after a tough first game loss against the San Francisco 49ers. The Packers will
be working at correcting their defense as well as some of the route
communication. With Aaron Rodgers being an elite quarterback in the NFL he didn’t
look the part yesterday. Going 30/44 with only 303 yards passing, an
interception, and 3 sacks is less than desirable for Rodgers. Pocket awareness
and accuracy are two areas where Rodgers can improve this upcoming week.
With
the Chicago Bears coming to town this week the Packers have a huge load on
their hands. Considering the Packers pass defense was falling apart in the
first game, it will be very easy for Jay Cutler to jump on the Pack early unless
something is corrected. However, if the Packers’ offense can be more efficient I
do not believe the Bears can stop Aaron Rodgers. To add some complication to
the preparation for the game, the game is three days earlier than usual. With a
Thursday game, teams often have a rough time getting the proper amount of reps
in at practice, and also lack time in the film room. Beyond that, the Packers’
running game needs a massive amount of help. With a team total of 45 yards
rushing, the Packers need to address that immediately. When your quarterback
has more rushing yards than your actual running back you know there is a
serious issue.
To beat
the Bears I think Rodgers needs to pass for over 400 yards with 3 touchdowns.
They need to establish the run as a dominant force and then open up the passing
game. It is very important that Cedric Benson is improved for the game or it
will be tough for the Packers to win. Green Bay is relying way too much on
Rodgers’ arm to win games rather than running the ball. Although Rodgers is a phenomenal
quarterback, he can’t be the sole scorer of points every game.
With a
tough Bear’s defense on the field, running will be difficult, but the Packer’s
offensive line must create holes for Benson. With 18 yards on the ground for
Benson, he needs to improve by more than double that. I would expect to see 75+
yards out of him coming up in this next tough match-up. If the Packers show up
with better pass coverage, an improved running game, and an excellent passing
game, I say the Packers get the win easily, under one circumstance-they
eliminate the penalty yards.
Against
the 49ers the Packers committed 10 penalties for 77 yards. With replacement referees
this season, the Packers, as well as any other team, have to play cleaner and
reduce the amount of penalty yards. Committing half as many penalties could have
very likely changed the outcome of the game; considering at least three of
those penalties where on failed 3rd down attempts by San Francisco. Four
days from now we will see if the Packers have improved, the Bears will be a
tough opponent, but with a few adjustments, the Packers can record their first
win this season. (WC 517)
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