Packers: Five players to watch vs. Vikings in Week 2

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GREEN BAY, WI – SEPTEMBER 09: Jimmy Graham #80 of the Green Bay Packers is tackled by Eddie Jackson #39 of the Chicago Bears during the second quarter of a game at Lambeau Field on September 9, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

4. Jimmy Graham, TE

Jimmy Graham’s first game with the Packers was not his finest. The Bears did all they could to disrupt Graham at the line of scrimmage, using their outside linebackers to hit him before proceeding to the quarterback. Even when Graham wasn’t jammed he wasn’t much help.

That’ll have to change in this matchup.

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With an injured Rodgers, a large target in the middle of the field will give the Packers better options in the quick passing game.

With the Vikings’ 4-3 front, there will be less traffic near Graham. He should see cleaner releases and will need to take advantage. I wouldn’t be surprised to see All-Pro Harrison Smith lined up over Graham often. Smith has the size and speed to keep up with him. If this does happen, it could be a blessing in disguise for the Packers.

Smith seems to find a way to get home on blitzes and having him tied up with Graham could limit that threat.

The 49ers were able to move the ball in between the 20-yard lines but were unable to punch in for the score once in the red zone. Graham is 6-foot-6 and even the great Smith won’t be able to jump with him.

Graham showing up big in the red zone will give the Packers an advantage the 49ers were not able to take.

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