Green Bay Packers v. Lions: 3 X-Factors for Week 2
By Paul Bretl
Every week, we know that the Green Bay Packers star players need to perform well in order for them to win. But every week, there are also a few X-Factors that can have a significant effect on the game as well.
An X-Factor will have a significant impact on the outcome of the game–even if they don’t fall into that “star” category.
When it comes to determining who or what that may be against the Lions, we will all likely have different responses. But for me, I determined what the keys to this game are going to be and which players can leave their marks in those matchups.
Green Bay Packers X-Factor No. 1: De’Vondre Campbell and Krys Barnes
When facing this Lions team, we can expect to see a lot of running backs D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams, as well as stud tight end TJ Hockenson. Detroit is going to lean on the run and play to the strength of their offensive line, but because they are so thin at receiver, when they do pass, you can expect one of the aforementioned players to be one of the targets.
Against the 49ers in Week 1, Swift and Williams combined for 20 carries and 93 rushing yards. Meanwhile, through the air, Swift, Hockenson, and Williams each led the way with eight receptions and combined for 218 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
With the running backs and tight end seeing so much usage, linebackers De’Vondre Campbell and Krys Barnes are going to play important roles–both in stopping the run as well as in coverage. Now, with that said, it will take all 11 defenders to slow this Lions’ offense, but Campbell and Barnes are going to be key.