Five predictions for Packers in final five weeks of 2019 season

4. Za’Darius Smith leads the NFL in sacks

The Packers made two of the best free agent signings of the spring by bringing in both Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith. The two have combined for 20.5 sacks and 42 quarterback hits this season, according to Pro Football Reference. They are ranked fourth and fifth respectively in sacks in the NFL this season.

Both players have been impressive all year long, but I think Za’Darius Smith will be the NFL’s sack leader by the end of the season. He’s currently ranked fifth in the league for sacks, 2.5 behind leader Shaquil Barrett. He’s also third in the NFL for quarterback hits with 23, two behind leaders T.J. Watt and Matt Judon.

No matter the matchup, the Smith Bros. can create consistent pressure. But the next two games, in particular, are favorable for the Packers’ pass rush. In the next two weeks, the Packers play the New York Giants and Washington Redskins.

Both teams have allowed 35 sacks this season, tied for ninth-most in the NFL. Football Outsiders ranks New York 25th in adjusted sack rate, and Washington 20th.

There’s a good chance the Packers will have big leads in both contests, which is the perfect game script for the Smiths to rush the passer.

At the end of the season, Za’Darius Smith will be the league-leader in sacks.