Packers: Top five performers vs. Bears in season opener win
By Jesse Fry
4. Za’Darius Smith
Brain Gutekunst had to have a large smile on his face when the final couple of series played out the way they did. It started with Amos’ interception. Then after a questionable series on offense, the Smiths brought home the victory.
Za’Darius finished with one sack on the night, but his pressure on the third down of the the Bears’ final drive proved just as important as the sack itself.
Smith lined up on the inside like the Packers said he would, beat his man clean and put a hard, clean hit on Trubisky that forced a quick throw. The pass floated over the head of all the receivers, as well as the defenders. As the ball fell harmlessly to the ground, we all breathed a sigh of relief and knew the Packers had the game in hand.
On the very next play, Preston Smith busted through the line and sacked Trubisky inside the five-yard line, effectively ending the game.
Throughout the game, Za’Darius Smith could be seen constantly in the backfield. When you’re that big, it’s hard to miss you. Much like his free agent counterparts, Z. Smith showed why it’s ok to supplement your draft failures with outside help. Let’s hope this game is the start of a trend on defense we haven’t seen in some time.