The Green Bay Packers are into the middle of December and looking to win the NFC North and potentially find their way into the top seed in the NFC playoffs.
If they are going to do either of those things, they are certainly going to earn it. Sunday’s game is Denver is the second of five games in a row against teams fighting for playoff positioning.
Denver is not simply fighting for a spot in the playoffs, but the AFC’s top seed, entering Week 14 tied for the best record in the conference.
Green Bay won the first of those five games with a thrilling 31-24 victory against the Detroit Lions.
The second game was a win against the Chicago Bears.
This marks the third game, and it is the toughest to date. Here are our keys to the Packers getting their first win in Denver since 2007.
1. Protect the King
Denver’s defense is good at all three levels, but by far, the strength of their defense is their pass rush. They entered Week 14 with 51 sacks on the year. Green Bay has fared well against the league’s best rushers, including keeping Detroit’s Aidan Hutchinson mostly silent in both of their matchups this season.
If Green Bay’s offense wants any chance against Denver’s defense in a raucous environment, they cannot afford the big negative plays, which the Broncos have been very good at creating.
Green Bay’s offensive line has stabilized in recent weeks with Anthony Belton playing at right guard, but notably with the better play from Aaron Banks and Zach Tom. All five men along the front will need to keep Jordan Love upright.
2. Stay Balanced
One way to keep Denver’s pass rush off balance is to remain balanced on offense. For all the gnashing of teeth about Green Bay’s tendency to stay committed to the run, Sunday’s game is one where the Packers will need to keep that commitment. If Denver’s pass rush is able to just pin their ears back and tee off on Love, while the Packers will be using a silent count on the road, Love may not stand a chance.
Denver’s defense has been good against opposing ground games.
It may be ugly at times, but it’s up to the Packers and Matt LaFleur to stay patient.
Josh Jacobs should play a key role in this game as a runner and an outlet for Love as a pass catcher.
3. Hit Nix
Bo Nix is a young quarterback who has been prone to some mistakes. He entered December with nine interceptions on the year and will be willing to put the ball in harm’s way while attempting to make a play.
As is the case with any quarterback, pressure is the ultimate equalizer. When Nix is in a rhythm, he’s accurate and efficient. When he isn’t, there are plays to be made on defense. Micah Parsons, Rashan Gary and the rest of the defensive front need to find a way to make Nix uncomfortable.
