Minnesota Vikings vs Packers in Week 2: The Green Bay perspective
By Adam Carlson
4. What are the biggest changes from this Green Bay team compared to the one Minnesota faced last season?
I know it’s only been one week but this Packers defense is greatly improved from last season. Last week, Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith combined for 16 total quarterback pressures when in 2018, Clay Matthews and Nick Perry totaled 43 the ENTIRE season. However, even with the questionable EDGE play last season, it was the safety position that was the biggest issue.
From poor coverage, bad ball skills, and a number of big plays given up, this may be the most improved position on the team with the additions of Adrian Amos and Darnell Savage – both of which looked fantastic against Chicago. Then at corner you have the young talented trio of Jaire Alexander, Kevin King, and Tony Brown who are all in their second season with defensive coordinator Mike Pettine which is only going to excel their development.
Obviously they aren’t going to always be as dominant as they were against Chicago, but this defense is much improved and for the first time in a very long time, Aaron Rodgers doesn’t have to be Super Man in order for the Packers to win a game.