Green Bay Packers: 5 Key Questions Heading into the Playoffs
By Paul Bretl
Can the offensive line continue to hold up?
Whether you’re looking at ESPN’s pass blocking or run blocking metrics, the number of sacks and pressures allowed, the data all says the same thing; this Green Bay Packers’ offensive line was the best unit in the NFL. And they played at this high level despite a myriad of injuries. But it’s worth asking if they can keep that level of play up in the playoffs without their star left tackle.
Against Chicago last Sunday, who boasts a strong pass-rush that includes Khalil Mack, Robert Quinn, and Akiem Hicks, the Packers’ offensive line held up well. They didn’t allow a single sack, gave up six pressures while being called for one penalty. For the most part, Aaron Rodgers had plenty of time.
At left tackle specifically, Billy Turner, who matched up against both Mack and Quinn for much of the game, gave up three pressures and was called for the lone penalty.
As we’ve seen this season against Tampa Bay and in the second half against Carolina, if the offensive line struggles, so does the rest of the offense. If Green Bay is going to make a Super Bowl run, they’ll need this unit to continue playing at a high level.
Will the defense continue playing well?
For a good chunk of this season, many within Packer Nation were ready to fire Mike Pettine as the defensive unit looked like the Achilles heel of this Green Bay team. But after the Minnesota game in Week 8, this unit started to turn a corner, and as I already alluded to, with their play over the last three games, they appear to be peaking at the perfect time.
The red zone defense has really stepped up, allowing just three touchdowns on their last 12 trips. Turnovers are starting to come in bunches, and by moving Krys Barnes to the Mike linebacker role and Christian Kirksey to Will, we’ve seen improved linebacker play over the last three games.
On top of that, they are putting pressure on the quarterback more consistently, but most importantly, the players have all kicked it up a notch. While admittedly, it’s not always pretty, when the game is over, the numbers have shown a defense that is playing very well, as evidenced by the 15.3 points per game they are allowing over the last three weeks.