The Green Bay Packers will host the Detroit Lions in an NFC North battle in NFL Week 3 action.
As part of the 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games, the Green Bay Packers will host the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. This NFC North battle between two 1-1 teams could have important postseason implications down the line.
After an opening week win against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Packers dropped a tough game to the Minnesota Vikings 17-14 last week. Aaron Rodgers and company could not get anything going offensively against the tough Vikings defense.
While the Minnesota defense is loaded, the Packers offense rarely struggles to put points on the board. It was definitely concerning to see them sputter throughout the night.
The Packers need Jordy Nelson to stretch the field like he did before his knee injury, and Eddie Lacy simply needs to get back on track. Rodgers has proven his ability to carry the Packers offense in the past, but he needs more help.
The Lions defense is not exactly loaded with talent. However, their defensive line is the strength of the group. Ezekiel Ansah leads an impressive group up front that should be able to create pressure on Rodgers.
More from NFL
- Cowboys give a masterclass in defense construction with Trevon Diggs extension
- 3 reasons the NY Giants won Saquon Barkley contract negotiations
- Shocking reunion with Saints fan favorite finally made official after months of hints
- Saquon Barkley’s new contract is an L for NFL running backs: Best memes and tweets
- NFL rumors: Division rival could steal Dalvin Cook from Dolphins
A Packers offensive line that has struggled through two games needs to bring its ‘A’ game in this one.
Offensively, Matthew Stafford leads a potentially explosive Lions’ unit. Theo Riddick is showing some nice ability as a receiver out of the backfield, while Marvin Jones and Golden Tate are becoming a strong WR duo.
The Packers’ defense has been strong through the early season. Mike Daniels is becoming one of the best defensive lineman in the NFL and their linebacker core has been great. The Packers’ secondary is talented, but they have struggled through two weeks.
Stafford should have an opportunity to put up some points in this one.
Protecting Rodgers will be a major key for the Packers in this game, while the Lions simply must look to attack the Packers’ defense deep down the field. This should be a fun and interesting game between two major division rivals.
Odds
Line: GB -8
Over/Under: 48
Unsurprisingly, the Packers are pretty heavy favorites here. The Lions have some nice upside as a team, but Green Bay is the more complete team here. Being at home makes the line perhaps a bit larger than you would think.
Make no mistake, both of these teams are talented.
Prediction
This could be an offensive battle on both sides. Both teams have explosive offensive units and are potentially leaky on the defensive side of the ball.
Rodgers is the most important player in this game. If he can lead the Green Bay offense to become the group that we are used to seeing, then they are extremely likely to win this game. He will need help, but Rodgers is the key.
Stafford and the Lions should be able to keep this one close, but I would be surprised if they are able to take home the victory on the road. Give me the favorites in this one, as they start to pull away late.
Pick: Green Bay Packers 31, Detroit Lions 21