Packers: Five players key to victory in Week 2 vs. Lions

4. Dean Lowry

Kenny Clark pulled up with an injured groin in the second quarter of the game against the Vikings. The Lions immediately took advantage, busting out a big run right up the gut when he left.

The Packers’ problems against the run are well documented, going back to last season and then showing up in the game against the Vikings.

Mike Pettine can expect every team to try to run the ball down the Packers’ throat and control the game this season. Aaron Rodgers got off to a hot start and one would think the Lions would not want him to continue this into this game.

I look for the Lions to slow the game down with the run and play defense and clock control.

Dean Lowry has to be the one to step up and control his side of the line.

Clark did not practice Wednesday and his status for the game is up in the air. Even if he does play, you can’t expect Clark to be at 100 percent.

Lowry, the second-most tenured and second-highest paid defensive lineman on the team, must step up and lead the way for the players around him.

Everyone on the defense should have a chip on their shoulder after giving up 24 fourth quarter points a week ago. They should take out their frustration on Detroit’s offensive line and take control of the line of scrimmage.