3 Packers to watch during Week 1 game at Vikings
The Green Bay Packers have a major problem on their hands when they take on the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1.
Za’Darius Smith, Green Bay’s former star pass-rusher, is as motivated as ever after feeling wronged by the Packers. Smith recently opened up about his departure from the Packers and why he’s out for revenge.
That could spell trouble for the Packers who will either have David Bakhtiari and Elgton Jenkins returning at the tackle spots after recovering from major injuries or lesser talented guys trying to protect Aaron Rodgers. Bakhtiari and Jenkins have been practicing in a limited fashion this week and could be ready to go, but the Packers aren’t going to rush their returns. Whoever lines up at tackle is worthy of watching due to Smith’s disruptive abilities.
Make sure you keep your eye on these three players on the Green Bay Packers during their Week 1 matchup at the Minnesota Vikings.
2. Sammy Watkins
It doesn’t look like Allen Lazard will play on Sunday after missing Wednesday and Thursday’s practices due to an ankle injury. That means newcomer Sammy Watkins will fill the no. 1 wide receiver role after not playing in a single preseason game.
The Packers desperately need someone to step up as a pass-catcher and Watkins is the next man up. He feels like he’s in great shape and is ready to contribute, something that hasn’t always been the case throughout his career. He can be a difference-maker if he stays healthy, which will get put to the immediate test in Week 1.
3. Jarran Reed
The Packers’ first task on Sunday should be to make Minnesota one-dimensional. If they can shut them down in one phase of the game, they’ll make them a lot more predictable and easier to defend.
Next. 7 facts to know about Packers-Vikings Week 1. dark
Jarran Reed will play a huge role in limiting star running back Dalvin Cook. Cook has ran wild against Green Bay due to nice running lanes created at the line of scrimmage. Green Bay has vastly improved its defensive line this offseason and Reed needs to lead the charge against the Vikings’ vaunted running attack. It all starts up front with the new and improved defensive line.