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Green Bay Packers: Five players who must step up vs. Texans

By Freddie Boston

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jordan Matthews (81) makes a reception past Green Bay Packers cornerback Damarious Randall (23) during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jordan Matthews (81) makes a reception past Green Bay Packers cornerback Damarious Randall (23) during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 25, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Nick Perry (53) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Nick Perry (53) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

Nick Perry

Finally healthy, Nick Perry’s red-hot start to the season inspired belief he may finally live up to his first-round potential. Yet after notching 4.5 sacks in four games to start the season, he’d register just 1.5 over the next five.

Perry’s strength makes him hard to move against the run, but the Packers need to see more from him as a pass rusher entering the home stretch of the season.

A healthy Clay Matthews appears to have helped: Perry has a sack in both games since his return to the lineup. Matthews commands attention from offensive coordinators, often drawing double-teams which leaves Perry in favorable one-on-one situations.

Due to the secondary’s struggles to hold coverage, the Packers must win up front. Perry’s role against both the run and rushing the passer is key to disrupting the play before it develops.

Brock Osweiler is tied for the league-lead in interceptions (13), and hurrying his throws is the easiest way to ensure more follow on Sunday.

Next: Five things Packers must do to beat Texans

Matthews takes on a big responsibility rushing the passer, but the Packers also need Perry to rediscover his early-season form.

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