Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers went into their Week 12 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams knowing how big of a test and a game it was. With quite a few teams packed at the top of the NFC standings, the Packers knocking off the Rams would help create some separation. Thankfully, they were able to do just that.
When everything was said and done and the dust had cleared on the battlefield, the Packers came out victorious by a final score of 36-28. Even though the Rams made a run late, Green Bay was able to make the necessary plays to move to 9-3 on the season and drop the Rams to 7-4.
There were so many positives all over the field for the Packers to be happy about. From Rodgers’ individual performance to the great play on the defensive side of the ball, there are many things that we learned about this Green Bay football team.
All of that being said, let’s dive in and take a look at three specific things we learned about the Packers from their big Week 12 win over the Rams.
3. Aaron Rodgers Is Still Elite And That Should Never Be Questioned
First and foremost, Rodgers once again rose to the occasion and silenced his critics and doubters. While he has not looked like the MVP that he was last season for the Packers, Rodgers is still arguably the best quarterback in the entire NFL.
Against the Rams, Rodgers carved through a talented defense for a massive performance. He completed 28 of his 45 pass attempts for 307 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. Rodgers also picked up a touchdown on the ground.
No matter what Rodgers looks like on a week to week basis, it’s time to stop doubting his ability to power this team to a Super Bowl. He is still elite and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
2. Despite the Injuries, the Packers’ Defense Is Legit
Can you imagine how good this defensive unit would be if they had their two best players on the field? Both Jaire Alexander and Za’Darius Smith have missed a lot of time due to injury this season. Despite that fact, the Packers’ defense is legit and is going to be a forced to be reckoned with come playoff time.
Matthew Stafford is a good quarterback, but the Packers forced him to commit two turnovers. The first came on an impressive strip sack by Rashan Gary. Then, later in the game, veteran cornerback Rasul Douglas, who the Packers picked up off of the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad earlier this season, came through with a huge 33-yard interception return for a touchdown.
While the Packers did give up 28 points, they looked great doing it. They are capable of making plays and creating turnovers and have also shown the ability to completely shut down opposing offenses.
1. A.J. Dillon Is A Man Amongst Boys
When the Packers made the decision to select Dillon in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, fans were upset. They didn’t see the need for another running back when the team already had Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams. Fast forward to this season, and no one is complaining about having Dillon on the roster.
Dillon had yet another good performance against the Rams this past week. He ended up carrying the football 20 times for 69 yards and picked up hard-earned yardage in crucial situations. In addition to his rushing numbers, Dillon also caught five passes for 21 yards and a key touchdown.
Green Bay has a big-play back in Jones and a bruiser in Dillon. This is exactly the kind of duo that makes Matt LaFleur’s offensive game plan so dangerous. Dillon is going to be a huge piece to the Packers contending for a Super Bowl appearance this season and he has risen to the occasion thus far.
