Packers run game nonexistent so far

With Josh Jacobs’ availability still appearing a long way from being decided, Green Bay has to figure out a way to establish a run game to field a competitive offense.

Through three weeks of the NFL season, the Packers have only picked up 147 yards on the ground and have yet to score a rushing touchdown. At this point last season, Green Bay had totaled 294 yards and one touchdown on the ground.

“Our run game … it is something that we need to improve on right there,” quarterback Jordan Love said. “I think that will help the pass game.”

Love is right about using the run game to set up the pass game. I Green Bay can establish a run game then that will force linebackers and safeties to cheat up to the line of scrimmage, it will allow the Packers pass catchers to sneak in behind and work the middle of the field.

The current issue with establishing the run game is that the offensive line is not getting any push. Given the inconsistent play and lack of talent on the offensive line, it is hard to put the full blame on the head coach.

With Zach Bako-Bewele and Aaron Banks injured, Green Bay has had to rely on players like Jager Burton, Jacob Monk and Donovan Jennings to make up for the void. The inexperience and lack of depth has come to the main stage, so in an effort to remedy the play, the Packers recently signed 11-year veteran Laken Tomlinson, who last played for the Houston Texans at left guard in 2025.

Tomlinson will be able to bring some experience to the offensive line, but it is hard to believe that he will be the savior in enabling Green Bay to be able to rely on the run game.

The other effect that having a poor offensive line has on the Packers offense is that it is severely limiting the use of one of the Packers biggest weapons in Tucker Kraft. Because teams are finding success rushing, Kraft is having to stay in to block and not act as that easy completion for Love.

No matter who is on the offensive line though, not having the team’s best offensive weapon in Jacobs is a major factor.

“It is the situation, it is the circumstance,” said Matt LaFleur, on missing Jacobs. “It is what it is right now and we have to find a way to try and (first) put (the running backs) in a better position then those guys have to go do it.”

With how well run and pass games compliment each other, for Green Bay to get back on track, the run game has to get going. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. The Packers are only going to go as far as the offensive line takes them, and if the current play continues, the team will not go very far this season.