5 reasons why Green Bay Packers will beat Minnesota Vikings in Week 2
The Green Bay Packers have these five distinct advantages heading into their Week Two matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.
The Green Bay Packers play an NFC North division foe for the second straight week, as they host the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2. The Packers won a defensive battle against the Chicago Bears in the opening game and hope to carry that momentum back to Lambeau Field.
The Vikings present another challenge and we’ll really get a chance to see what Green Bay is made of. Minnesota may not have the same type of elite defense Chicago does, but their unit can still hold their own. They have plenty of ways to bring pressure and have an above-average secondary as well. Their offense is also far superior to Chicago’s and they’re sure to test Green Bay’s defense even more. However, here are five reasons why the Packers will move to 2-0 next Sunday.
Health
The Packers didn’t play their starters very often, or at all in some cases, throughout the preseason. We saw some of that in the form or rust against the Bears. However, the team is also incredibly healthy heading into their matchup against the Vikings. The only major injury is Oren Burks at inside linebacker and he should be back shortly. This health advantage isn’t one the Packers have experienced often in the past, but it should help propel them to victory against the Vikings.
Pass Rush
Green Bay’s pass rush is real and dangerous. It’s real dangerous. Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith, two free agent signings, got after Bears’ quarterback Mitchell Trubisky early and often. They should be a force once again when the Packers take on the Vikings’ maligned offensive line. When you add in the likes of Kenny Clark and the exotic blitz packages Mike Pettine draws up-it should be a long day for Kirk Cousins.
Defensive Speed
The speed on the defensive side of the ball is incredible for the Packers. Tony Brown, Jaire Alexander and Darnell Savage each showed their elite speed against the Bears. The rest of the Packers are no slouches either. This allows them to fly to the ball and ensure there are always multiple defenders bringing down the ball-carrier. This speed should make life difficult for Minnesota.
Davante Adams
Despite a quiet night against the Bears, Adams is still an elite receiver in the NFL. He’s also had his share of success against Minnesota and Xavier Rhodes. Green Bay will want to get their Pro Bowl receiver going in Week 2 so look for them to target him early and often. It should end up in a big game for Adams.
Next. 3 Packers that must step up vs Vikings. dark
Homefield Advantage
Head coach Matt LaFleur has talked about wanting to create a loud atmosphere at Lambeau Field. They’ve tried different techniques throughout the preseason including a foghorn. We’ll see if they continue to use it in the regular season as well. However, it’s clear LaFleur wants the crowd to be fired up and loud against the Vikings. I fully expect them to rise to the challenge.