Lombardi Ave
FanSided

Five takeaways from Packers’ humiliating loss to Redskins

By Freddie Boston

Nov 20, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws the ball against the Washington Redskins in the third quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws the ball against the Washington Redskins in the third quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 6
Next
Nov 20, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Jared Cook (89) catches a pass as Washington Redskins running back Keith Marshall (39) defends in the third quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Jared Cook (89) catches a pass as Washington Redskins running back Keith Marshall (39) defends in the third quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Jared Cook gives offense spark

If Ted Thompson needs convincing to open his mind about free agency, Jared Cook sure made a case. Cook’s return from injury gave the offense a much-needed spark, his speed and athleticism creating mismatches Aaron Rodgers could exploit.

Mike McCarthy loves to utilize his tight ends in the passing game, but Richard Rodgers isn’t efficient enough to trust.

Cook led the Packers in receiving with six catches for 105 yards and a touchdown. For perspective, Rodgers has posted just 203 yards and a touchdown in 10 games this season. If not for a miscommunication while wide open in the end zone, as well as a late fumble, Cook’s evening would have been even better.

On one play, a 47-yard catch-and-run down the sideline, Cook flashed a combination of size, speed and athleticism the Green Bay offense has lacked for three years. Finally healthy, the former Ram may be the difference maker Aaron Rodgers needs to attack the middle of the field.

Rodgers clearly likes his new tight end, Cook leading the team in targets with 11. Davante Adams and James Starks both had six.

Getting Cook more involved down the stretch may be critical if the Packers are to have any hope of winning the division.

Home/Green Bay Packers News