Packers: Five players key to victory in Week 9 vs. 49ers

3. Rashan Gary

I’ve been waiting for Preston Smith to show us the player he was during his breakout season of 2019. That hasn’t happened yet.

Now I’m counting on Rashan Gary to pick up the slack.

The Packers need a spark and a player to step up on defense. The run defense has been downright awful and the pass rush hasn’t been getting home.

The only consistent threat the Packers have had in 2020 is Za’Darius Smith. Kenny Clark spent the first half of the season recovering from injury, and I’ve already mentioned Preston Smith being M.I.A.

Now is the time for Gary to step up.

Gary has the strength to help in run defense and has improved as a pass rusher. More of Gary on the field could help the Packers.

At Michigan, Gary played inside so he can hold up against linemen, but it isn’t known how much his ankle injury is still effecting him. He has been limited in practice for most of the season and ankle injuries have a tendency to linger.

The team needs Gary. Preston Smith is struggling to find his footing so the opportunity is there to steal some spotlight and be the threat opposite Za’Darius Smith.