Green Bay Packers: 3 X-Factors vs Atlanta Falcons in Week 3

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 13: Allen Lazard #13 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings during the fourth quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 13, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Packers defeated the Vikings 43-34. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 12: Za’Darius Smith #55 of the Green Bay Packers reacts during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Lambeau Field on January 12, 2020 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

1. Za’Darius Smith

The Falcons have done a good job protecting Ryan this season, only allowing him to be sacked on 3.7 percent of his dropbacks–good enough for sixth in the NFL. That could present a problem for the Packers who have surprisingly struggled to get after the quarterback, pressuring quarterbacks on only 16.7 percent of passing attempts (tied for 29th in the league).

That’s surprising considering the success Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith had a year ago. When you also throw in Rashan Gary’s emergence it becomes even more curious.

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Z. Smith has to step up his game and start winning more one-on-one battles so he can get after the quarterback faster. That will be a huge key to this game, as Green Bay can’t allow Ryan to get comfortable in the backfield and pick apart their secondary. Hopefully, Z. Smith returns to his 2019 form.

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