5 Key Areas Packers Must Improve After First Quarter of Season

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – NOVEMBER 27: T.J. Slaton #93 of the Green Bay Packers reacts to a play against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field on November 27, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Packers Weaknesses: Stopping the Run

Compounding their running game woes, the Packers’ defense has been porous against the run, surrendering an alarming average of 4.5 yards per carry, which places them at 25th in the NFL. This issue has persisted over Matt LaFleur’s tenure.

Notably, Green Bay has already yielded two 200+ rushing yard games this season, one to the Atlanta Falcons and another to the Lions. In both instances, their opponents exerted dominance at the line of scrimmage, leaving the Packers looking helpless.

The Packers allowed Jarran Reed and Dean Lowry to depart in free agency, opting for younger talents TJ Slaton and Kenny Clark, while also drafting Colby Wooden and Karl Brooks, who specialize in pass-rushing. While Slaton has held his own in the run game, the other three have faced considerable challenges. Furthermore, the Packers’ outside linebackers have struggled to contain the edge, allowing running backs to exploit this vulnerability. It’s a pressing issue that requires immediate attention from the entire team.

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