Packers vs. Lions: The official Week 3 prediction
By Tim Muma
Amid all the deserved worry about the Packers’ offense, this Week 3 matchup has great potential.
Yes, it’s only been two games, but the Packers’ offense ranks 29th in yards (278.5 per game).
It’s a little startling to see this team fail to reach 300 yards in either of its contests this season. Of course, the offensive concern has existed for a while now.
They’ve reached 400 total yards only once in their last 12 games.
Total passing yardage has been under 200 yards in half of their previous 14 games. That includes yards lost due to sacks.
And if you’ve been paying attention, Rodgers has been an average QB at best during those 14 contests. He’s failed to reach a 100 passer rating in any of those games and has been highly inaccurate.
Expect a good balance of run and pass with Green Bay getting back to some quick-hitting throws and runs after the catch.
The running game has been decent when McCarthy gives Lacy and James Starks more than a handful of carries. Green Bay has just 41 called running plays in two games.
While some added carries would be helpful, this week might not be the best time to pound it.
Detroit held the Packers to a total of 114 rushing yards over two meetings last season.
With all of that said, I fully expect a breakout of sorts from the offense.
Sunday features an injury-depleted Lions’ defense, coupled with the first home game of the season and a QB with a chip on his shoulder.
There will be plenty of chances for the Packers to start quieting the critics. Expect a good balance of run and pass with Green Bay getting back to some quick-hitting throws and runs after the catch.