Green Bay Packers vs Washington Redskins: 5 Matchups to Watch

4. Green Bay O-Line vs Washington D-Line

Green Bay likes to run their offense with a run-first mentality because it helps them set up the passing game off of play-action. Aaron Rodgers is talented enough to carry the team with his arm when they can’t, but, when the running game is working, things just get a lot easier. Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams have been the engines of this team when the passing game isn’t clicking, and they’ve gotten away from the run in their losses this year which is why it’s important early.

Washington’s defensive line is actually in the top half of the league in terms of yards per carry allowed at 4.2. Unfortunately, EDGE rusher Ryan Kerrigan, who has been one of the NFL’s most consistent players since he entered the league, will be out with a concussion, but they should have the remainder of their group. That group is loaded with first-round picks that are built to clog running lanes rather than get after the passer.

Green Bay’s offensive line has played quite well this season despite losing a starter in Lane Taylor, although rookie Elgton Jenkins has looked like a seasoned vet outside of penalties. They’re eighth in rushing offense and fifth in passing offense, and it all starts up front. If they can get rolling early in the cold weather, this offense should have a big day behind those guys.