 |
| Packer Promotional Magazine dwm photo |
It wasn't that close.
In case there was any lingering doubt about how important Mr. Aaron Rodgers is to the Green Bay Packers, the last two and a half-games prove it.
Brett Hundley, Rodgers' back-up, moved the field smartly down the field on the Packer first drive before it stalled within field goal range.
The new long-snapped, Derek Hart, failed to put the ball on the money. The kick was blocked. It was the last time Green Bay was close to taking a lead.
Despite a couple scores after the game was decided, the team didn't look good again. Partially their fault and partially caused by some nice Detroit defense.
Rodgers' talent elevates the offense; puts points on the board; and applies pressure to the opposition.
Last night Hundley couldn't do that. The Packer defense several times made two good plays, then gave up first-down yardage or committed a third down penalty to allow the Lions to keep the ball and get closer to pay-dirt.
Rodgers, standing on the sideline, can't help either side of the ball.
When 12 is on the field, defenders worry about his arm, his feet, and his head. Hundley may do that someday, but right now that seems light years away.
The Packer defense looked lost. The effort was there, but consistent execution was missing. Without the scoring threat Rodgers brings to the field, the Lions offense played free and easy. The Lions never punted.
Next week, Green Bay visits Chicago to play the Bears. For the Pack to have a chance, the offense needs to move the ball on the ground and through the air, for more than four yards at a time. The defense needs to really improve - primarily by making stops on third down to get the ball back for the offense.
After a 4 - 1 start, three losses make it an even record half-way through the season.
Right now, talk of Rodgers return or a scenario where the Packers fight their way into the play-offs is premature. Right now, Green Bay needs a win. Sunday in Chicago is a good place to start.
Comments
Post a Comment