6 Packers who need to play better following bye week

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws an incomplete pass during the second quarter of their game Sunday, October 2, 2022 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Green Bay Packers beat the New England Patriots 27-24 in overtime.Packers02 10Syndication Journal Sentinel /

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Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Preston Smith celebrates after sacking Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sean Mannion.Nfl Minnesota Vikings At Green Bay Packers /

Packers who need to play better: Preston Smith

Preston Smith was having a decent year while playing with Rashan Gary on the opposite edge. The two formed a formidable duo that kept offensive tackles on their toes. Unfortunately, Gary went down with a season-ending knee injury and protections have shifted their focus to Smith, who hasn’t been able to counter.

In the four games without Gary, Smith is only averaging 1.75 hurries per game (he was at 2.88 before that) and is having a minimal impact in the passing game. Quarterbacks have all day to throw due to the lack of pass rush. Smith must step up in his new role as edge rusher no. 1.

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