Green Bay Packers at Washington Redskins: 5 matchups to watch

1. Green Bay Defenders vs Jordan Reed & Chris Thompson

In the past, players like Jordan Reed and Chris Thompson have been the kryptonite for this Packers’ defense. With players like Josh Jones and Oren Burks now in the fold, they should have the players to help counter them. Reed, when healthy, is arguably a top-three tight end in the NFL. He is able to stretch the field better than just about any tight end in the league. Finally healthy, he’s showing that as his connection with Smith is quickly developing.

Thompson is one of the most explosive players in the NFL. He can take any ball to the house on a run or a catch out of the backfield. Burks is expected to be limited to just special teams work this week while he recovers from his injury. Jones played best last season when he was able to use his athleticism as an in the box safety/linebacker hybrid. That’s where he should be Sunday as he follows Thompson around the field.

The strength of this Redskins offense is Reed and Thompson. That is the pair that the Packers need to focus on Sunday afternoon. If they’re able to shut them down, they should easily handle this game. However, it only takes one big play from either of them to open the entire game up. If Burks shows that he is healthier than expected, McCarthy would be wise to give him increased snaps on defense.