Lions at Packers: 3 things we learned
What did we learn from the Green Bay Packers’ 34-27 victory over the Detroit Lions?
Early on, this one appeared to be a blowout. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers’ offense raced out to a 31-3 lead against the Detroit Lions.
Rodgers was on top of his game in the first half, tossing for four touchdown passes before the Lions even knew what happened to them. Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson was the primary target for Rodgers, coming down with six receptions for 101 yards and two touchdowns.
As great as the Packers were in the first half, the Lions were almost able to match them in the second. Right before halftime, Matthew Stafford hit wide receiver Marvin Jones for an impressive 73 touchdown catch and run.
That big play by Jones seemed to jumpstart the Lions’ offense, as they threw the ball all over the field in the second half. Stafford finished with 385 passing yards and three touchdowns in this game, and was able bring the Lions all the way back to make this close.
However, the Packers were able to grind down the clock on their last possession, led by a gutsy drive by running back Eddie Lacy. Rodgers and company were much less impressive in the second half, but they were able hold on for the narrow NFC North victory.
What did we learn from this game that will impact both of these teams going forward?
1. Aaron Rodgers is still an elite quarterback
Was there ever really a question? Rodgers has not played well this season, but he was able to get back on track against the Lions. The Detroit secondary is not exactly among the elite units in the league, but Rodgers came in and took care of business for the Packers.
His lack of production in the second half was less than ideal, but Rodgers looked as good as ever in the first half. It seemed that all Rodgers needed was some home cooking.
He was able to get right back on track on Sunday, and I fully expect him to continue to have success going forward.
2. Marvin Jones is the number one receiver for the Lions
In case you didn’t know, Marvin Jones is clearly the top receiver in the Lions’ offense. Jones entered the game as the Lions’ leading receiver but he really exploded in a big way on Sunday, finishing with six receptions for 205 yards and two touchdowns.
Jones’ 73-yard catch and run for a score at the end of the first half seemed to jumpstart the Lions’ offense. He is a big-time threat with the ball in his hands from anywhere on the field, and he showed it on that play.
Jones also brought in a 35-yard touchdown catch late in the fourth quarter to bring the Lions close. Jones did not do enough to give the Lions a victory, but he was undoubtedly one of the best players on the field on Sunday.
He is a legitimate All-Pro candidate.
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3. Packers defense is completely unbalanced
The Packers’ rush defense is arguably the best in the NFL. Led by defensive lineman Mike Daniels, the Packers have completely shut down opposing rushing attacks this season and that continued against the Lions.
The Packers were able to hold the Lions to only 50 yards rushing on 23 carries this week, but their secondary continued to be exploited through the air. Stafford did not need any balance, as he tossed for an incredible 385 yards through the air.
Led by Jones, the Lions’ receivers were able to get open at will against the Packers. Injuries to pass rusher Clay Matthews and number one cornerback Sam Shields certainly did not help. However, there is no other way to put it, this Packers’ pass defense is not very good.
Rodgers and company could easily find themselves in a lot of shootouts this season.