4 things to watch in the Vikings Week 2 game vs. the Packers
By Chris Schad
Will the defensive line stay disciplined?
A lot has been made between Aaron Rodgers and Matt LaFleur this offseason and while many are fixated on how much control Rodgers has on the offense (or is it the other way around?) this is still a pairing that can make life difficult on the Vikings this Sunday.
One of the biggest ways that Rodgers can throw a wrench into the Vikings’ gameplan on Sunday is taking advantage of their aggressiveness. Over the years, Rodgers has been a pro when it comes to drawing opposing defenses offside and snapping the ball quickly, thus leading to a free play. When Rodgers has the opportunity to chuck it down the field with nothing to lose, good things usually happen for the Packers.
Last week, the Vikings defensive line looked great and Danielle Hunter led the way with a sack and tied Za’Darius Smith with 10 quarterback pressures. While the Vikings appeared to have a jump on most plays, their aggressiveness also held them back with four offsides penalties against Matt Ryan.
If the Vikings jump offside that much in their home stadium, playing in front of a hostile environment in Green Bay could be an even bigger challenge on Sunday. You can bet Rodgers has taken notice and if the Vikings make the same mistake, they could pay dearly.