The Green Bay Packers look to move to 2-1 and stay atop the NFC North. It is their first official home game at Lambeau since Detroit beat them on January 9th, eliminating them from the playoffs. The New Orleans Saints are coming off back-to-back wins over the Titans and the Panthers.
The Packers have a chance against this Saints defense to prove they are legit.
Green Bay Packers Pass Rush
The strength of this Packers defense is the pass rush. All offseason, we heard about how they wanted to be aggressive and get to the quarterback. This is the game to show it.
Derek Carr this year has been sacked on 10.26% of his dropbacks. That said, the Saints average yards per pass attempt is 7.7 yards. The Packers must get to the quarterback to prevent the plays from developing. Carr will take some risks and make poor decisions when under pressure.
Rashan Gary may still be on a snap count, but this could be a game where he ends up with a few sacks. Often, Carr looks to extend the play to create a big play. With Gary’s relentless effort, this is a perfect opportunity for him.
The Green Bay Packers Secondary
The Falcons wide receivers abused the Packers physically. Jaire played arguably one of his worst games, and opportunities were missed. Chris Olave and Michael Thomas highlight the Saints’ talented wide receiver core. They account for 56.7% of the team’s targets.
The Saints come in missing Jamaal Williams and Alvin Kamara. Derek Carr will be doing most of their work through the air. The Packers can’t afford communication problems because this Saints team will take advantage. This will be a good test for the Packers secondary.
Protect Jordan Love
Jordan Love has yet to turnover the ball. Not only does Love deserve the credit, but Matt Lafleur and the offensive line do too. When Love has had time, he has been smart with the ball. The Saints have been a team that can get to the quarterback. They are coming off of a four-sack performance against the Carolina Panthers.
There is a good chance that Bakhtiari and Jenkins are out; it will be interesting to see how Lafluer addresses the line.
Final Thoughts
This game will be a good test for the Packers offense. If the offensive line can protect Love and he can take care of the ball, there is a good chance the Packers win this game. The defense must stop the run first and then get after the quarterback. I fully expect the Packers to come out fired up for the home opener and take care of business.
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