Green Bay Packers: 5 takeaways at New York Giants
The Green Bay Packers got back on the winning track by defeating the New York Giants. Here are five takeaways from the contest.
Following an embarrassing loss on Sunday Night Football, the Green Bay Packers recovered in a big way. They defeated the New York Giants on the road and improved to 9-3 on the season. With another winnable game against Washington at Lambeau Field looming, here are five takeaways from Sunday’s contest.
JK Scott
Scott’s season started with a bang before fizzling out the last few weeks. Despite his struggles, he got back on track in the snowy weather. That’s a great sign for the Packers considering Scott will have to learn how to punt in the cold. That’s been a weakness of his so far, but yesterday was a promising sign.
Turnovers
The Packers’ defense is at their best when they bend, but don’t break. They often give up yards in bunches, but have been able to come away with timely turnovers. That trend established itself on Sunday when they picked off Giants’ quarterback Daniel Jones three times.
Given Green Bay’s inability to consistently stop offenses from moving the ball, they often rely on turnovers to create momentum for their team. It hadn’t happened for a couple of weeks and is related to Green Bay’s struggles on that side of the ball. That wasn’t the case against the Giants.
Kevin King roller coaster ride
Sunday’s game was a microcosm of Kevin King’s season and career. He was promptly beat for a touchdown in the Giants’ second possession, something that’s become all too common for the former second-round pick. However, a redeemed himself later with an interception.
King was up and down throughout the whole game, sometimes getting beat and other times breaking up passes. The inconsistency drives Packers’ fans nuts, but it’s hard to deny his talent.
Wide Receiver 2?
The Packers know they have a bonafide stud in Davante Adams. Adams showed that once again against the Giants. However, they’ve been searching for a new number two receiver all season.
Like he’s been doing, Allen Lazard flashed his abilities when given the chance. He hauled in three receptions for a team-high 103 yards and one touchdown. That was just what the doctor ordered. Hopefully, Matt LaFleur recognizes this and allows Lazard to see the field more often.
NFC Playoff Race
The Packers had a good Sunday when it came to the playoff race. And it could get even better on Monday Night. With the Packers win and the San Francisco 49ers loss, Green Bay crept back into the conversation for home-field advantage.
Even if it will be a steep challenge, the 49ers must lose two more games and Green Bay must win out as well as one loss from the New Orleans Saints, the first step was completed on Sunday. A Minnesota Vikings’ loss to the Seattle Seahawks would be icing on the cake.