As we get to the end of the previews, we really start to look at some teams that have a great chance to make it to the Super Bowl or even win the championship. At 5-1 to win the NFC championship, the Green Bay Packers have the roster to contend in what will be a very competitive conference.
It starts with the new folk hero at Lambeau Field, Aaron Rodgers. Brett who? That’s the question Packers faithful ask themselves after seeing the heir apparent put together the best season of his young career. He threw for close to 4500 yards last season and there’s no reason why he couldn’t do that again this year.
Greg Jennings and Donald Driver are just professionals that continue to put up big numbers and JerMichael Finley is everyone’s favourite pick to be the best tight end in the NFL this season. With three weapons as dynamic as that, there’s no wonder why the Packers were second in the NFL in points scored. The running game is also solid with Ryan Grant as the feature back as he ran for 1200 yards for the second straight year.
One of the biggest reasons they were so successful is because they were able to consistently produce long drives that kept the opposition’s defence on the field. They were top 5 in the NFL in third down conversions and time of possession.
For all the criticism that the Packers took after their defeat at the hands of the Cardinals in the wild-card round last season, their defence was Top 5 in rushing and passing yards allowed and were tops in the NFL for interceptions and turnovers. There’s no doubt that this starting 11 will be looking to make people forget about their ugly playoff performance.
The defensive line is solid with Cullen Jenkins, B.J. Raji and Ryan Pickett. However, their depth took a hit as Johnny Jolly was suspended for the season after a second suspension for violating the NFL’s drug policy. They’ll have to hope for some luck with health. The linebackers are solid as well with Clay Matthews, A.J. Hawk and Nick Barnett as the starters.
Where the team may run into problems is with their secondary. Charles Woodson is still one of the most feared corners in the NFL, but the rest of the secondary has already been hit with some major losses. Atari Bigby and Al Harris are both on the PUP list and Will Blackmon is already done for the season. If they can get healthy, this defence will be complete.
Two players to watch out for in camp are Bryan Bulaga and Tramon Williams. Bulaga was the first round pick of the Packers this season and is expected to be a stud offensive lineman for years to come. Does he progress enough to make an impact in his first season? Williams will be tested a ton since opposing offences will avoid throwing at Charles Woodson and instead pick on Williams. Will he be ready for the
weekly challenge?
2010 Prediction: 12-4