The Green Bay Packers open their season at Soldier Field to take on Justin Fields and the Chicago Bears. Chicago has had two significant season acquisitions in Tremaine Edmunds and Dj Moore. Chicago has high hopes for the season and believes they are in win-now mode after finishing last in 2022.
Though they are young, The Packers return a healthy amount of starters. Jordan Love has shown promise in the preseason, and the defense looks revitalized. Coming out of Soldier Field with a win is no easy task, and here should be their keys to success.
Green Bay Packers Ground Game
The Green Bay nation is eager to see Jordan Love as the QB1, but their success will stem from between the tackles. The Packers strength offensively is their offensive line. On the side, arguably, the Bear’s weakness is their defensive line.
The Bears like to play one high safety and get after the receivers. With Patience, the Packers will have their opportunity to take shots. The shots will more than often come off of play action. There will be a heavy dosage of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon.
Matt Lafleur has announced that Christian Watson is out and that Romeo Doubs would be questionable. The Packers approach will be the old-school football of winning in the trenches.
Green Bay Packers Defensive Line
As mentioned before, this game will be won in the trenches. Green Bay has invested heavily in the defensive line by adding Lukas Van Ness. Outside of TJ Slaton, the defensive line will consist of four first-round picks and a free-agent veteran in Preston Smith.
Packers defensive tackle Kenny Clark had this to say about stopping the run,” We got a different plan. You’ll see me on Sunday as far as the plan. Regarding the techniques and everything, how we play defense, we’re just being more aggressive.”
The Packers will have their handful containing Justin Fields. Fields rushed for 1143 yards last year and is looking to take the next step as a passer. Containing Fields will be crucial for getting off the field on third down.
Limiting the Bears yards after the catch
During the preseason, DJ Moore had 90 yards after the catch on two receptions. DJ Moore, the Carolina Panthers number one wideout in 2022, is dynamic with the football. The Packers can’t afford to miss tackles.
The safety play has to be better than it was last year. The players at the secondary level need to play with aggression. During the preseason, the Packers showed a willingness to get after the ball carrier and rally tackle. All eleven guys must be committed to making the play, which should lead them to a successful outcome.
Final thoughts
This game may feel more significant than it is, but in all reality, it is week one. This is a young group, especially on the offensive side of the ball. There will be miscues and growing pains. If the Packers can limit mistakes, they will be in this game with an excellent chance to win.
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