Green Bay Packers: Top 5 moments of the 2017 season
2. Aaron Jones’ breakout performance
Injuries to Ty Montgomery and Jamaal Williams opened the door for Aaron Jones, and he took full advantage.
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A week after an impressive 13-carry, 49-yard and one-touchdown cameo in relief of the two injured backs, Jones got his first start against the Cowboys. His performance the week prior proved to be no fluke. Jones piled up 125 yards and a touchdown against Dallas, averaging an incredible 6.6 yards per carry.
Jones showed good vision and burst throughout the game. It was a breakout performance on a big stage, and one that earned him the starting job even with Williams back from injury. It wasn’t until Jones got hurt himself that Williams got his chance to showcase his talents.
Against Dallas Jones was exceptional in open space, weaving in and out of defenders and forcing missed tackles. He looked like a big play waiting to happen, which is something he showed throughout the season.
Had it not been for injuries to the running backs above him on the depth chart, who knows how long it would have taken for Jones’ breakout to come?
The Packers look to have found a couple of real talents at the running back position.
Williams is a powerful runner who can handle a heavy workload. Jones is explosive, routinely makes big plays and can put on the afterburners in the open field.
All of that was on display in his huge day against the Cowboys.