In Week 2 of the preseason, the Green Bay Packers traveled to the nation’s capital to take on the Washington Redskins. The Pack pulled out a 21-17 victory, and are now 2-0 in the preseason so far. Here are five takeaways from the game.
Green Bay Packers Preseason Week 2 Takeaways
First Team Offense As Advertised
To most everyone’s surprise, Aaron Rodgers suited up and played the first series of the game, leading the Packers on a touchdown drive highlighted by a Martellus Bennett touchdown reception. Rodgers and the first team offense looked to be firing on all cylinders, which is scary considering it will only get better the more time the unit has to play together. Barring injuries, the offense will be extremely hard for opposing defenses to contain. Rodgers finished the night with 37 yards passing along with a passing touchdown.
Brett Hundley Shines
Brett Hundley looks like a starting NFL quarterback through his first three years based solely on preseason games. He played extremely well in his rookie year, and has been playing well this year. His sophomore season was hampered by injuries. Hundley looked sharp and finished the game with 9/10 passing, 107 yards, and a touchdown including an absolute dime to Jeff Janis for a 38-yard gain.
Josh Hawkins Could Push For Playing Time In 2017
Josh Hawkins has really shined in training camp and had another very strong performance vs Washington. In the first quarter, he broke up a Kirk Cousins pass in the endzone and forced the Redskins to kick the field goal instead. Hawkins also made a number of nice tackles given his limited playing time. Hawkins will push Damarious Randall or LaDarius Gunter for playing time in the regular season if he keeps up his stellar play.
Jason Spriggs Struggled Mightily
The former second round pick had another night to forget. Last week against Philadelphia, Spriggs was beat early and often giving up a sack and two hurries. Tonight, Spriggs was beaten for two sacks, and has been beaten time and time again with the inside swim move. If Spriggs wants a career protecting Aaron Rodgers, he will have to prove to the coaches that he can do an adequate job.
Jeff Janis Cannot Be Ignored
Fan favorite Jeff Janis added even more incredible preseason play to his repertoire, catching a 38-yard pass from Hundley. Janis had a very productive night, hauling in three passes for 63 yards and played extremely well on special teams. He even got praise from Mike McCarthy at halftime. McCarthy was quoted in saying “Jeff’s making big plays and doing a hell of a job on special teams.” By the sound of that, Janis has a very good chance at making the opening day roster.
