The Green Bay Packers ended their preseason with a 15-19 win over the Seattle Seahawks. The starters had played the first quarter capped off by a six-yard back shoulder pass from Love to Watson. The starting defense once again looked sharp, playing fast and aggressive.
Here’s a look at the studs and duds from the Green Bay Packers preseason finale.
Stud: Green Bay Packers Kicker, Anders Carlson
Anders Carlson has been a rollercoaster. For most of the training camp, he’s either dialed in or missing all over the place. The one thing that is for sure, though, is that he has a leg. Carlson went 2-2 on the night from 43 yards and 57 yards. The 57-yard field goal was into the wind and had more than enough. As of late, you can see him gaining confidence.
Dud: Green Bay Packers Guard, Royce Newman
The Packer’s third-year guard has been having a brutal camp. He has struggled to block well and has not taken the jump from his first year. Royce had two penalties on the night and struggled blocking. It would not be surprising if the Packers part ways with him.
Stud: Green Bay Packers WR Malik Heath
The undrafted rookie just makes plays. Malik filled Romeo Doubs spot with the ones tonight and looked good. He showed aggressive downfield blocking and had a few grabs. Malik went from a borderline roster spot to a lock. Malik has had plenty of support from his teammates and coaching staff.
Jordan Love had to say, “He’s balled out since he got here. I think the biggest thing since he got here is how aggressive he catches the ball he attacks it. His mentality, and once he catches it, he’s trying to get those yards.”
Lafleur mentioned, “The way he (Malik Heath) blocks is big time for us.”
Sean Clifford on Malik Heath: “That dude wins on his routes all the time. I know he’s an undrafted guy, but he has continuously proven why he should be on this team.”
Stud: Green Bay Packers OL, Zach Tom
The second-year offensive lineman out of Wake Forest has looked very good. Last night, he got the start at right tackle. He looked good in pass protection and was aggressive in the run game. He must be a starter on this offensive line, regardless of where they put him.
Dud: The Lambeau Crowd
The Packers fans once again were doing the wave during the offensive series. Matt Lafluer, in the past, has expressed his disdain for the wave and being loud while the Packers are on offense. As we come into the regular season, hopefully, the Packers crowd can refrain from it.
Final Thoughts
I liked the idea of Matt Lafluer playing a lot of starters throughout the preseason. This is a young team, and you can’t get enough experience. This team has a lot of young talent, and I think should make for an exciting year.
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