3 X-Factors in Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears Matchup

Before the Green Bay Packers take the field on Sunday against the rival Chicago Bears, let’s take a look at a few key X-Factors.

Now, what is an X-Factor? Well, we all probably have slightly different definitions, but to me, we know the star players need to perform well in order for Green Bay to win, but which role players can really leave their mark on the game and have a big impact? Those are my X-Factors, and this week I have three to keep our eyes on.

Green Bay Packers X-Factor No. 1: Yosh Nijman

The Chicago Bears are without Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks hasn’t played since Week 9, and we still don’t know his status for Sunday, but this patchwork Green Bay Packers offensive line — particularly Yosh Nijman — will still have to contend with Robert Quinn, who has posted some impressive sack totals this season.

Quinn’s overall pressure numbers are decent, he ranks 30th in that category among all edge rushers, but he’s been very good at turning those pressure opportunities into sacks. Through 12 games, Quinn has registered 11 sacks, according to PFF ($$), which is the seventh most in football. He also ranks 15th in pass-rush productivity, an efficiency metric from PFF.

While Quinn will move around, I imagine he will look for as many matchup opportunities against Nijman as possible. In Week 6 against Green Bay and with Elgton Jenkins at left tackle, we saw Quinn log three pressures and a sack as he blew up a few plays in the backfield.

Now, of course, there is help that the Packers can provide Nijman–this includes tight end chips, quick passes, and leaning on the run game. Also, with Green Bay not having to worry about Mack this time around and potentially not having to deal with Hicks either, that would afford their offensive line more flexibility to help with Quinn as well.

As we all know, the name of the game is keeping Rodgers upright and giving him enough time in the pocket. On Sunday, that begins with trying to slow Robert Quinn.