Packers 2018 schedule release: Game-by-game predictions

Week 1: vs. Chicago Bears

The Bears might be new-and-improved, but Green Bay is still my pick at Lambeau Field. This should be a much closer game than some of the blowouts we’ve seen here in recent years (although don’t forget Chicago does own a pair of recent victories at Lambeau), but I’m still giving the edge to the Pack at home. A perfect start to the season. Packers 23, Bears 17 (1-0)

Week 2: vs. Minnesota Vikings

This one should be fun to watch. Mike Zimmer’s defense has created a number of problems for the Packers’ offense in recent years, but assuming Aaron Rodgers is healthy and plays the entire game, I like Green Bay at home. The Packers need to win their home games, and this is a big one early in the year. Packers 24, Vikings 21 (2-0)

Week 3: at Washington Redskins

The Alex Smith era begins in Washington. The Packers are the better team, and as long as Aaron Rodgers and the offense plays as we expect, I think they’ll edge it on the road. Will Washington become a better football team with Smith instead of Cousins? I’m not so sure. Green Bay secures an important win away from home. Packers 24, Redskins 17 (3-0)

Week 4: vs. Buffalo Bills

Despite making the playoffs last season, the Bills still have a lot of work to do. In front of the Lambeau crowd, this should be a comfortable victory for the Packers. To keep pace with the Vikings in the NFC North, Green Bay needs to take care of business in games its expected to win at home. Packers 30, Bills 17 (4-0)