The Green Bay Packers played their first home game of the season against their division rivals, the Detroit Lions. After coming off a brutal performance on Sunday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings, the Packers had something to prove. They came out firing, putting up 31 points in the first half, and led 31-10 at halftime. The Packers seemed to get slightly complacent in the second half though, allowing 17 second half points. They would eventually put the game away 34-27. Here are the Green Bay Packers Week Three takeaways.
Green Bay Packers Week Three Takeaways
Aaron Rodgers Shines
Aaron Rodgers was back to his old self in this game. The Pack needed some good play out of their superstar quarterback to light a fire under this team, and they got it. He only threw the ball 24 times, completing 15 of his passes. He threw four touchdowns, all in the first half, and put up a 129.3 QBR.
Many believed Rodgers’ best days were behind him, after last season’s struggles continued through the first two weeks. Today he proved he could still be an elite quarterback. He seemed to get back on track with his receivers, especially Jordy Nelson, who caught six passes for 101 yards and two touchdowns.
Eddie Lacy and the Offensive Line Click
Eddie Lacy also redeemed himself after a controversial 2015 season. He carried the ball 17 times and posted over 100 yards. Lacy failed to score in the game, but with Rodgers playing extremely well he didn’t need to find the end zone. He also played a big role in the final minutes of the game running out the clock, as the Packers led by only a touchdown. He had a key first down that sealed the deal.
The offensive line was a big part of Lacy and Rodgers’ success. They opened many big running lanes for their running back, including a hole that led to a 25-yard run. They also protected their quarterback extremely well. Rodgers was only sacked twice, and hit twice. They gave Rodgers enough time to let him do what he does; pick apart defenses.
Defense Does Enough to Win
The Packers defense came into this game broken down. Sam Shields missed another game with a concussion. Clay Matthews, Morgan Burnett, Letroy Guion, and Datone Jones were also inactive. With all the injuries the Packers defense was good enough to get the win.
They started the game strong, giving ten first half points. The second half was more of a struggle, as two touchdown passes from Matthew Stafford brought the Lions within seven points. They intercepted Stafford once, but gave up 385 passing yards. Once again, however, they were dominant against the run. On 23 carries, the Lions accumulated just 50 yards.
Week 4 Preview
The Packers held off the Lions in a game they appeared to dominate. They played their first of four straight home games. They head into their bye week with a 2-1 record. In Week Five the New York Giants come to Lambeau Field for a Sunday Night Football matchup.
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