Dec 24, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) is sacked by Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) in the first half at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Wood /Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY NETWORK /
Dec 24, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews (52) sacks Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) causing a fumble at Lambeau Field. The fumble was recovered by Green Bay. Mandatory Credit: Wm. Glasheen/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin via USA TODAY Sports /
The Bad Things
Red zone offense. The Vikings were able to move the ball against the Packers, but once they entered scoring territory, they were unable to take advantage of the momentum. It is unclear what the major problems are, but this will likely be a point of emphasis for the team going forward.
Linebackers exploited in coverage. It’s always hard for a linebacker when they are matched up against a wide receiver. Kendrick and Barr have the athleticism to stay with the pass catchers, but a quarterback like Rodgers can take advantage of small openings with great precision.
Aaron Rodgers couldn’t be stopped. Whether it was through the air or on the ground, Rodgers took full advantage of Minnesota, throwing very few incomplete passes and not turning the ball over. He truly is playing at an MVP level, just like Vikings fans expect in a big game like this.
T.J. Clemmings continues to get beat. I feel sorry for Clemmings in many ways. He keeps getting thrown into roles for the team that he’s just not ready for. However, his play got extra frustrating this game when Matthews continued to blow by him. Once, his play directly resulted in a Bradford strip sack, where the offensive tackle jogged after the letting the linebacker sprint past him.
Jordy Nelson showed that he is a major threat. The Vikings had no answer for Jordy Nelson, who continued to win every single matchup that Minnesota threw at him. If there was any doubt that he is a top notch NFL wide receiver, this game should cement his status among the best.
