So, the Packers’ place-kicking problem is real. Similarly concerning, are big name, well paid, pass rushers were invisible Sunday.
Beating a good team on a roll with so many drops on offense and defense combined with penalties and rusty-sloppy QB play, were too much to overcome against Minnesota. Still, there are reasons for hope.
Jayden Reed looks like a star. In spite of being down 28, the defense woke up managed to play well enough to make a comeback possible. It also looks like Green Bay has a legit weapon in punter Daniel Whelan. But the biggest hope is that Jordan Love made some serious throws as the game wore on, giving reason to think his performance will continue to sharpen.
Pass rush challenge
Through 4-games, big name talents Rashan Gary, Kenny Clark and Preston Smith have been mostly below average, and at times, invisible. Lukas Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbbare flash hustle, growth and but not enough results. Devonte Wyatt is the biggest impact player from the d-line early this season, but he was injured late. He was on crutches and in a walking boot post-game with an MRI scheduled. Hopefully his recovery isn’t a long one.
Sometimes you can scheme a pressure, or a sack. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley did just that with Keisean Nixon’s strip sack. But Green Bay must get more from their front-4 to contend, because blitzes and scheme only gets you so far.
Kicking riddle wrapped in a conundrum
While kickers across the league are blasting 50 and 60 yard kicks, Brayden Narveson has missed in every game (once saved by penalty).
The two misses yesterday, from 37 and 49 yards, were devastating. Playing from behind all day is hard enough. It gets much harder when leaving easy points on the field. Coach Matt LaFleur expressed confidence in his kicker. Narveson should thank his coach for the white lie–because there’s no way he’s confident.
The young kicker may another week because there aren’t any great kickers just waiting to get signed. It’s safe to assume Narveson won’t sleep well for quite some time.
The talent and coaching to fuel an exciting, competitive, team is still evident, even in a tough home loss. Solving the pass rush and kicking problems won’t be easy fixes.