Green Bay Packers Offensive Line Woes to Dictate the Rest of the Season
The Green Bay Packers (3-2) are facing off against New York for the second straight week. Following a second half collapse against the Giants across the pond, they'll play host the Jets. Aside from their victory against the Bears, the Packers have played in many close games. Many near losses in fashions unfamiliar to Packers […]
The Green Bay Packers (3-2) are facing off against New York for the second straight week. Following a second half collapse against the Giants across the pond, they'll play host the Jets.
Aside from their victory against the Bears, the Packers have played in many close games. Many near losses in fashions unfamiliar to Packers faithful.
QB Aaron Rodgers has yet to throw for over 300 yards in a game and in under duress for most of the year. Largely due to the health and play of the offensive line.
Through the first five games they're allowing the 24 QB hurries (3rd worst), 25.8% pressure rate (9th worst), 48 pressures (11th worst) and only 2.1 seconds clean in the pocket (last).
While the starting offensive line is considered one of the best in the league, health is a big factor. Only second-year guard Royce Newman has played every single offensive snap.
In fact, only Newman, center Josh Meyers and guard Jon Runyan have played in every game. With both starting tackles David Bakhtiari and Elgton Jenkins have each missed at least one game so far.
This only spells trouble for Rodgers. While he's only been sacked 11 times so far, the inconsistency of the offensive line lineup and play is breaking him down. He continues to miss practice due to an injury in his throwing hand.
How much more can the offensive line afford to deal with? The Packers play five more games against top 10 pressure defenses including the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles. Plus five games against top 10 in sacks including teams like the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans.
Rodgers isn't showing his former ability to extend plays like he once made a habit. At the rate he is getting hit, he may turn into a pocket statue.
Green Bay will need to ask themselves. Should they continue to R-E-L-A-X?
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
