Packers vs. Seahawks: 5 reasons NFC Championship isn’t like week 1

Oct 12, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Percy Harvin (11) during pre game warm ups prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

2.) Derek Sherrod and Percy Harvin are gone

This is good news for Green Bay; on both fronts.

The Packers had to substitute in tackle Derek Sherrod in the second quarter of the Week 1 game because of Bryan Bulaga‘s knee injury.  Sherrod struggled, to say the least, in his place.

Derek gave up two sacks, and was beaten on a consistent basis by Seattle’s defense.  One sack Sherrod gave up was on fourth down in Seattle territory and the other sack resulted in a safety that was the turning point of the game..

I documented Sherrod’s struggles as a Packer once he was released earlier in November, and fans should definitely be thankful that Green Bay is going into Sunday’s game with not only a healthy O-line, but one that has been playing at an all-pro level.

The other key player that will not be on the field for this matchup also benefits the Packers.  Former Seattle receiver Percy Harvin was traded to the New York Jets on Oct. 17.  Ask around the Packers’ organization and you’ll see that no one associated with the team will be losing any sleep over Harvin not lining up against them Sunday.

Harvin had four carries for 41 yards to go along with his seven catches for 59 yards in the Week 1 match-up.

Green Bay has been around Harvin for a long time now, while he played for the Vikings and Seahawks.  They know how explosive and dynamic a player he is, and we as fans know how Green Bay can struggle with those kinds of players (like any team).

While Seattle still has plenty of weapons on the offensive side of the ball, it’s obvious that not having to deal with Harvin will benefit Green Bay Sunday.

Next: Enter Davante