Five things the Packers have to be thankful for in 2019

The Smith Bros.

While Rodgers and Jones have been impressive on offense, the Smith Bros. have been dominant on defense. Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith joined the Packers on the first day of free agency, and they’ve formed one of the league’s best pass-rushing tandems since.

As a team, the Packers have 28 sacks this season. The Smith Bros. have a combined 20.5 sacks. They are both in the top five in the NFL for sacks this season. No other tandem has more. They are also both in the top eight for quarterback hits. Za’Darius Smith is third with 23 QB hits, Preston Smith eighth with 19.

For defenses to have success in the playoffs, they need to be able to rush the passer. For all of the concerns with the Packers defense in the past month or so, they still have two edge rushers who can make game-changing plays at any moment.

Both Smiths have double-digit sacks for the first time in their careers. Their production and leadership makes them two of the best free agent signings in the NFL this year. Where would the Packers defense be without them?

As we enter the business end of the season, the Packers have a lot to be thankful for. Now they have the opportunity to regain the NFC North title.