Five Packers to watch vs. Panthers in Week 10 matchup
By Jesse Fry
5. Tremon Smith
The Packers have not had an impact kick returner since the early years of Randall Cobb. Trevor Davis flashed signs of being able to, but he now plays for the Raiders.
Teams are daring the Packers to make a return knowing they don’t have much to fear. Kickoffs are landing well short of the end zone, punters are punting the ball right down the middle of the field without a worry of a return.
Tremon Smith showed signs of bringing the return game to life with a 36-yard return, the longest on the season, and averaging nearly 25 yards per return.
Right now, it’s hard to believe any team respects the Packers’ return game, let alone fears it. One big return can change that. Even if only for a game. Mason Crosby and JK Scott have done their part for the Packers’ special teams. It’s time for the returners to hold up their end of the bargain.
Every team leader stood up and accepted their portion of the blame for last week’s stinker. Head coach Matt LaFleur, Aaron Rodgers, Za’Darius Smith, Preston Smith, the list goes on. Now they must respond.
Top 30 moments in Green Bay Packers history. dark. Next
This loss could be a blessing in disguise to teach this team to not rest on its laurels and keep grinding. That it shouldn’t expect the win but work for it. The team has their bye next week, so there should be no reason to not give it all you’ve got and head into the down time at 8-2. Then rest and get ready for a big game against the 49ers. But first, take these Panthers seriously and go out and prove last week was a fluke.