In the win against the New Orleans Saints, the Green Bay Packers were down four key starters. While they came away with the win, their absence was definitely felt. Fortunately, in the biggest game of the season thus far, the Packers are expected to get four key players back. All of them play a significant role on the team, but one player in particular will make a very significant impact on the team in week four.
Jaire Alexander will be necessary if the Green Bay Packers want to slow down the Detroit Lions’ offense
One thing the Lions have been very consistent in over the last two seasons is having an elite offense. Their sole loss this season was to the Seahawks who scored 37 points in overtime. Jared Goff is averaging 273 passing yards per game through three games, good for the sixth most in the NFL. While his touchdown-to-interception ratio is poor, currently sitting at 5-2, their offense has seen a lot of success.
Heading into this matchup with that big of a hole on defense would be a recipe for disaster. Not only does Detroit have one of the best slot receivers in the league in Amon-Ra St. Brown, but Josh Reynolds is having a surprisingly good season. Reynolds has caught nine passes this season for 146 yards and a team-leading two touchdowns. Rookie tight end Sam LaPorta is yet another receiver having a solid season, racking up nearly 200 yards in a touchdown in three games.
There are just too many weapons on their offense to play with a banged-up secondary. Especially when the corner that would be out is one of the best in the league. Putting more pressure on Jordan Love just wouldn’t be wise as he’s going to have to play one hell of a game regardless.
Why the Defense Matters More Than the Offense
Christian Watson and Aaron Jones returning will, without a doubt, make a huge impact on their offense. Having two more reliable weapons will do wonders for Love and he could very well have the best game of his career. That said, the offense won’t need to score 35+ points if the defense can keep the Lions out of the endzone.
Having Alexander help shut down their passing game could do just that, and take the pressure off the offense. It will also be hard to ride any positive momentum if the offense is constantly having to work to keep up with the Lions.
