Green Bay Packers v. Rams: 3 Big Things from Important Win

The Green Bay Packers patchwork OL holds up well

I don’t know about you, but this was my biggest concern entering the game. As we just discussed on the previous slide, running the ball wasn’t easy, and I wasn’t sure whether or not Green Bay would stick with it–I mean, we’ve already seen them abandon it at times this season.

In addition to being stout against the run, as I’m sure you can imagine, the Rams have been very good at getting after the quarterback as well. This defense ranks second in pass rush win rate and has the third-highest pass-rush grade by PFF’s metrics ($$). The Rams also have the seventh most quarterback pressures this season as well.

But even so, for the most part, this Packers offensive line held their own–with some help, of course. Establishing and sticking to the run game can do wonders, as has been pointed out, but we also saw plenty of pre-snap motion, some play-action, and a whole lot of the quick passing game. In many instances, the pass-rush just didn’t have enough time to get to Rodgers before the ball was gone.

"“The offensive line was fantastic,” Rodgers said via Packers.com. “One phantom sack, the gift I gave my workout buddy Greg Gaines with the zero-yard sack on the scramble. I thought they did a nice job. I thought we mixed it up with the quick game, getting the ball out of my hand.”"

Now, there were times in obvious passing situations where Los Angeles was able to get home and they did log their share of pressures, but I wouldn’t say there was anything egregious by the offensive line. According to PFF, Rodgers was sacked only once — and it wasn’t really even a sack — and hit just two times.

Of course, the players deserve all of the credit, but Matt LaFleur and Adam Stenavich need some as well. Despite numerous injuries this season and musical chairs along the offensive line, this unit continues to hold its own.