Green Bay Packers: Best opponents, how they will have an impact

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Green Bay Packers tight end Richard Rodgers (82) is tackled by Chicago Bears linebacker Jerrell Freeman (50) after catching a pass during the third quarter at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 26-10. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

Chicago Bears

Jerrell Freeman, Linebacker

If you’ve never heard of Freeman you’re probably not alone. Freeman was signed by the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent in 2008. After that path ended, Freeman went to Canada and played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders for three years before signing with the Colts in 2012.

For the first three years with the Colts, Freeman was a non-factor. In his final year, however, he took a massive jump and was one of the top linebackers in the league.

In 2016, Freeman’s first year with the Chicago Bears, Freeman was rated by Pro Football Focus as the top overall linebacker in the NFL.

Chicago Bears inside linebacker Jerrell Freeman. Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Though Freeman is solid against the run, he makes his money as a coverage linebacker. That could spell trouble for Martellus Bennett trying to break things open over the middle of the field.

Fortunately, the Bears don’t have any elite corners and have nothing to brag about in the pass rush department. In other words, Freeman may be able to take away the middle of the field, but with no pass rush Aaron Rodgers will carve a defense into bits and pieces.

If the Packers want to ensure a victory against the Bears, a guard is probably the most important. The Bears not only have Freeman but a couple of good interior linemen in Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman. If the Bears can take away the run they have a chance. Don’t let them.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) throws in the pocket as center Travis Frederick (72) blocks against the Baltimore Ravens. Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Dallas Cowboys

Travis Frederick, Offensive Tackle

I’ll drop Travis Frederick as the top guy, but really it’s the offensive line as a unit that will decide the outcome of this game.

To win this game the Packers have to win up front. From NT to OLB, the Packers have to be solid on every play and ready to do battle in the trenches.

Yes, the Cowboys also have Dez Byant, and if the Packers can’t handle Dez there isn’t much hope for the 2017 season.

Dallas Cowboys center Travis Frederick (72) prepares to snap the ball to quarterback Dak Prescott (4) against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

In summary, corner and edge rusher are the top two needs.

As much as I love being an optimist in hopes that the young corners make great strides, 2017’s schedule includes one elite receiver after another.

If the Packers can’t find a solid corner, whether it be in the draft, free agency, or within, this will be a tough season.

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