2022 Packers Preview: Green Bay Looks To Rebound Against Washington
The struggling Green Bay Packers look to end a two-game skid versus the Washington Commanders.
After an embarrassing loss to the New York Jets, the Green Bay Packers (3-3) hope to turn the tide against the Washington Commanders (2-4). Washington will be without quarterback Carson Wentz after he suffered a hand injury that may set him back a few weeks. Meanwhile, Sammy Watkins may return this week after returning from injured reserve, and Randall Cobb’s injury might not be as bad as suspected.
Quarterback Matchup: Aaron Rodgers (GB) Versus Taylor Heinicke (WAS)
The former Carolina Panther will start for Washington. Heinicke led the Football Team to a 7-9 record and an NFC East title in 2020. In 16 games last year, the 29-year-old threw 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Along with Curtis Samuel and Terry McLaurin, he gets to utilize first-round pick, Jahan Dotson, if he plays. Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers was okay last week. He threw for 246 yards and a touchdown but the offense only mustered ten points in a blowout loss to the Jets.
Six games in and Rodgers only has thrown for nine touchdowns and is on pace for 25 touchdowns, his lowest since 2018. He needs to play better and has admitted the team needs to simplify the offense, something head coach Matt LaFleur didn’t understand.
Skill Position Matchup: Aaron Jones (GB) Versus Terry McLaurin (WAS)
Terry McLaurin is one of the best receivers in the NFL, but his whole career he has dealt with poor quarterback play and that doesn’t help this week. McLaurin versus cornerback Jaire Alexander should be a good matchup this week. On the other side of the ball, Aaron Jones is great. But he only had nine carries last week and as many fans have noticed, he literally runs the offense.
In drives where he gets the ball a lot, it’s usually a good drive leading to points. But lately, the Packers have run less and less which led to a 27-10 blowout loss last week. Would you rather take three passes and a punt or plenty of runs and a touchdown, Coach?
America’s Pick: Packers Defeat Commanders
According to Bing Polls, 64% of America picked Green Bay to win this week. Green Bay desperately needs a win with next week’s matchup with Buffalo looming. A loss here sets them back 3-4 and the Minnesota Vikings are already 5-1 and looking pretty good. Fans shouldn’t be freaking out yet but another loss justifies it. The Commanders aren’t very good. The offensive line is solid but older which should be a good day for linebacker Rashan Gary. It’s another game the Packers should win, but will they?
Packers’ Key Factors To Winning
Run the ball! It isn’t that hard and use both running backs. Jones has speed and agility while AJ Dillon can get you three to four yards most of the time.
Rodgers needs to play more aggressively. I know the receivers aren’t great but he has to play more deep ball. These check downs don’t always work and this does not feel like the Rodgers we all know and love.
The defense needs to play better. Giving up 27 points in two weeks to not great offenses is not ideal.
Score! Ten points in the last six quarters for the Packers’ offense is not good at all. It needs to be better.
Official Score Prediction: 21-17 Packers Defeat Commanders
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