Packers vs. Lions: The official Week 3 prediction
By Tim Muma
Injuries are starting to impact the Packers’ defense as well, meaning other guys need to step up to make plays consistently.
Clay Matthews is battling an ankle injury and, of course, hamstring issues. The problems with his hamstrings are annual events the Packers have dealt with for years.
He’s expected to play, but his role and ability is in question.
Meanwhile, Sam Shields is still trying to get through the concussion protocol. His absence was clearly felt in their loss to the Vikings last week. He will be out on Sunday.
That puts the onus on Damarious Randall again, who has to be feeling the pressure to improve over last Sunday’s performance. Dom Capers would be wise to mix things up a bit against the Lions.
They’ll get a pick and maybe a fumble, while putting some pressure on Stafford as the game wears on.
The Packers also expect LeTroy Guion to miss Week 3 due to an MCL injury. That will impact the depth on the defensive line as well.
They also have other players that will be battling through ailments. Morgan Burnett (hamstring) and Micah Hyde (ankle) should be out there, but you have to wonder how effective they’ll be. Detroit’s receivers could cause problems for them.
All of this makes Capers’ job a bit tougher, though the veteran defensive coordinator prides himself on a variety of looks with different packages. He also expects players to know multiple positions, so that could ease any transitions.
It’s still a difficult spot to be in versus a potentially formidable offense. Heaven forbid the Packers’ offense wakes up, but the defense implodes.
If each guy simply does what is asked of him when it comes to scheme, the defense will do just enough to help pull out a victory. They’ll get a pick and maybe a fumble, while putting some pressure on Stafford as the game wears on.