Why The Packers Are Super Bowl Contenders Again This Season
Aaron Rodgers is back and looking to prove a point this season. Green Bay made the surprising decision to draft quarterback Jordan Love in the 2020 NFL Draft. It was a move that didn’t make a lot of sense to the fans after such a big season in 2019.
Questions surrounded the Packers’ offense, especially at the wide receiver position. Davante Adams is a superstar, but the Packers were expected to bring in another weapon or two. Instead, they stood pat and hoped for their young wide receivers would step up.
In Week 1, the questions about the wide receiver room were answered. Adams led the way with 14 receptions for 156 yards and two touchdowns. Marquez Valdes-Scantling had a big game as well with four catches, 96 yards, and a touchdown, while Allen Lazard caught four passes for 63 yards and a score.
On the ground, Aaron Jones picked up 66 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries. A.J. Dillon got two carries in his NFL debut and picked up 14 yards.
The offense is going to be just fine. They are well-balanced and the receivers are stepping up.
Defensively, the Packers gave up far too many easy drives to the Vikings. Jaire Alexander had a big game with a sack for a safety and an interception. Za’Darius Smith chipped in with a sack of his own.
If the Packers are going to take the next step, they will need a better pass-rush. They also need to figure out how to stop the run.
Kenny Clark went down with a groin injury, which is a major concern. But, the Packers have talent on the line and Christian Kirksey showed that he can make plays against the run as well. The talent is there for the Packers to take the step forward that they need.
Matt LaFleur has now began his tenure as head coach of the Packers with a 14-3 record. He is the real deal. With him and Aaron Rodgers leading the way, Green Bay will once again contend for a Super Bowl appearance this season.
Expect to see the Packers continue to improve as the season moves forward. The offense is finally back to an elite level and it will be interesting to see how the defense performs in Week 2. Everything seems to add up to another big and entertaining season from Green Bay.
