Packers: Five players to watch vs. Buffalo Bills in Week 4
By Jesse Fry
1. Right guard
It is expected that veteran Byron Bell will start in place of injured Justin McCray (shoulder). Bell was inconsistent during the preseason, but that was mostly at right tackle. Bell is better suited for guard where most of his starts have been.
Bell was signed just for this reason. To be an insurance policy if/when an injury occurs. He has over 74 games of starting experience in the NFL and will need to be on top of his game.
The Bills have two good defensive tackles who can eat up guards and penetrate the backfield. Star Lotulelei was signed as a free agent this past offseason, while Kyle Williams has been a solid performer in Buffalo for a number of years.
If the Packers want to take some of the burden off Rodgers with the run game, Bell will have to be able to handle both Lotulelei and Williams.
Bryan Bulaga, if he plays, will do so with a problematic back. So, the right side will be tested.
Should Bell falter, look for the Packers to turn to Lucas Patrick. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s a quick hook for Bell should he struggle. Rodgers has been hit too much already this season. With limited mobility, the Packers will need to protect Rodgers better in order to get a rhythm on offense.