Packers: Five players to watch vs. Cowboys in Week 5
By Jesse Fry
5. Za’Darius Smith
Last week, for the first time in 2019, the Packers did not record a sack. The Packers’ high-profile Smiths were shut out of the sack column as Carson Wentz made his way around the pocket when the pressure came.
The Packers face another mobile quarterback who can evade the rush with the best of them in Dak Prescott. One thing working in the Packers’ favor, though, is the Cowboys’ All-Pro left tackle is unlikely to suit up. Even if Tyron Smith does play, he’s likely to be less than 100 percent, making that position an easy target for Za’Darius Smith.
Should the Cowboys slide protection to help out against Z-Smith, that will leave one-on-one opportunities for P-Smith, as well as the rest of the group.
Z-Smith wasn’t just signed for his pass-rushing prowess. He can also set a strong edge in the run game. If Z-Smith wants to get his pass-rush opportunities, he will have to stop the run first.
Bonus player to watch: Mason Crosby
Without Adams, the offense is likely to struggle. This one could turn into a mirror image of the game the Cowboys just played against the Saints. In that game, Saints kicker Will Lutz came through with four field goals, all the scoring for the Saints offense.
If it comes to that, Mason Crosby will have to be the clutch kicker he has been in Dallas before.
Even if healthy, this was going to be a tough game. The Cowboys’ strength is the Packers’ weakness. Adams’ injury will make it even tougher. The offense finally seemed to find its groove featuring Adams in the passing game.
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More than one player will have to step up in the passing game. If Aaron Jones can get the run game going, that would be an even bigger help. This just feels like one of those games that’ll come down to Rodgers again. If so, history suggests the Packers will be just fine.