Packers: Five players to watch vs. Bears in season opener

1. Bryan Bulaga

We know Aaron Rodgers is the most important man on the field for the Packers. If he goes down, it’s likely the Packers’ playoff hopes go down with him. So, protecting him will be priority number one for the new coach.

Khalil Mack was brought over by the Bears to be the antidote to Rodgers the team has been looking for. In last year’s opening-night contest, Mack almost single-handedly took down the Packers and Rodgers. Mack was gassed late in the game after missing all of training camp in hopes of a new contract with the Raiders, and became less effective as the game entered its critical moments.

Having been acquired after the preseason was over, Mack did not have much time to get into football shape. If he had, the miracle comeback by Rodgers might’ve never happened.

This is why Bulaga is key number one for this game. More often than not, Mack will line up on the right side of the offense and rush in the face of the quarterback. Bulaga has made it through camp healthy and with a few veteran rest days mixed into training camp this year, he should be ready to go. The Packers need him to be. For the Packers to win this game, Bulaga can’t allow Mack to have a repeat performance from last year’s opening game.