Green Bay Packers Defense-Three Reasons To Be Excited

Packers lineman Mike Daniels has the defensive tackle unit playing well against the run and pass.

If you were to ask Packer fans about their main concern heading into the season, many would have said depth on the D-Line. With the loss of Mike Pennel to suspension, the team has only two proven players at defensive tackle.

Given that Dom Capers is also starting two unproven middle linebackers in Blake Martinez and Jake Ryan, it would seem the middle of the Packers defense could be exposed.

However, after two weeks this unit has been stout against the run and made several plays to disrupt the opponents passing attack. Led by Mike Daniels, who has consistently made his way into the backfield, the unit is giving up a measly 1.6 yard per carry.

Rookie, Kenny Clark also made several nice plays against Minnesota, including a batted pass attempt from Sam Bradford. Plays such as this could easily lead to interceptions down the line. Clark also showed his speed and quickness by disrupting an Adrian Peterson run. On the play,  it was the defensive tackle’s penetration that forced Peterson back to his right, leading to a Jake Ryan tackle.

If the Packers are able to defend the run at this rate throughout the season, we can expect players in other positions to benefit. When the opponents offense is forced into 3rd and long, play makers such as Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers, Morgan Burnett and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix will be in better positions to force turnovers and change field position.