1 Big Question Facing Each Packers Defensive Position Group at the Bye
By Paul Bretl
With no game to be played, instead of looking at the 5 Big Questions facing the Green Bay Packers prior to their upcoming matchup, I’ve been taking a look at the 1 Big Question facing each position group out of the bye week.
On Friday, we took a look at the offensive side of the ball — click here to read — so now that means today we are going to look at the defense.
Green Bay Packers IDL: Can Kenny Clark continue to get regular help?
Getting Kenny Clark some help has been the mantra for Green Bay Packers fans for a few seasons now, and while this group outside of Clark has been far from dominant, he has received more help this season than in years past.
Against the run, the Green Bay defense is allowing 4.1 yards per rush, which ranks 21st this season. But the Packers are yet to allow a 100-yard rusher, opponents have not been able to control games on the ground, and when you take into consideration that Green Bay frequently plays with lightboxes in an effort to limit the passing game, it’s largely up to the defensive front to win those matchups and stop the run.
Dean Lowry has already recorded 25 pressures and four sacks this season, per PFF ($$). In 2019 and 2020, he finished the entire season with 21 pressures each year and three total sacks. Kingsley Keke is still trying to find that consistency, but there have been a few games this season against Minnesota and Pittsburgh where he has played at a very high level. He also put together decent performances against Cincinnati, Arizona, and Los Angeles.
Even Tyler Lancaster has been able to flash at times this season, as has rookie TJ Slaton who has earned more snaps as the season has progressed.
Slowing the run game and generating push up the middle are two major ways that the interior defensive line can leave their mark on a game–truly the entire defense benefits. As I said, this group hasn’t been great by any means, but the play around Clark has been improved, and for this Green Bay Packers defense to continue playing at a high level, it all starts up front.