Five takeaways from Packers’ season-saving win at Eagles
Defense takes step, but work needs to be done
During Philadelphia’s opening drive, it looked a case of same old for the Packers defense.
But the Eagles’ early game-tying touchdown would be the only one they would score all night. While Green Bay’s defensive performance won’t be drawing comparisons to Seattle any time soon, it was certainly a step in the right direction.
Ladarius Gunter, Damarious Randall, Micah Hyde and Quinten Rollins all averages fewer than 8 yards allowed per target
— Nathan Jahnke (@PFF_NateJahnke) November 29, 2016
The unit surrendered just 13 points, sacking Carson Wentz four times, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix also coming away with a crucial interception.
Dom Capers’ defense doesn’t need to suffocate run games and shutdown opposing receivers, simply get off the field often enough to allow Aaron Rodgers to work his magic. Green Bay’s 2014 defense was hardly record-breaking, but strong enough to complement a highly efficient offense. This formula is required again in 2016.
Clay Matthews’s performance raised some eyebrows, beaten all too easily early on, but spending time at inside linebacker can be considered a positive. The Packers should utilize their playmaker in this role more frequently, as it allows Capers to get creative.
Early on it looked as though the Packers were entering a shootout. Aaron Rodgers and a dazzling offensive performance takes the credit, but the defense held their end of the bargain.
A defensive performance far from domination, but one with plenty of satisfaction.