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Green Bay Packers: Five keys to beating Texans in Week 13

By Freddie Boston

Oct 9, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back James Starks (44) rushes with the football during the second quarter against the New York Giants at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back James Starks (44) rushes with the football during the second quarter against the New York Giants at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 28, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) congratulates wide receiver Davante Adams (17) after a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) congratulates wide receiver Davante Adams (17) after a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Start fast

Slow starts killed the Packers in losses to Indianapolis, Tennessee and Washington, placing them immediately behind the eight ball. It was no surprise, then, that an early lead in Philadelphia led to victory.

Of all the keys pointed out in this article, starting fast may be the most important, as it ties together many of the other points. If the Packers race out to an early lead, they force the Texans to throw more often and abandon the run game. Brock Osweiler must then win with his arm, making the Houston offense one-dimensional, allowing the Packers to tee off on the quarterback.

Starting fast became a staple of the Packers’ great season two years ago, more of a surprise any time they didn’t score on their opening possession. Last week’s win felt more like the Packers of old we’ve come to expect, and racing to a quick start will put them in command against the Texans.

Next: Packers stock up, stock down entering Week 13

If Green Bay can sustain long, scoring drives from the opening possession, take away Houston’s run game and pressure the quarterback, they will walk away with a second straight win and potentially close the gap on the Lions for the NFC North lead.

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