Packers: Pass rush the key to victory against Jaguars in Week 10

The Packers’ pass rush will be key in Week 10.

If the Green Bay Packers‘ pass rush can reach last season’s form, they are going to play a major role in Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Jaguars quarterback Jake Luton will again fill in for Gardner Minshew, but this will be only Luton’s second game in the NFL.

If the Smith Bros., Kenny Clark, and Rashan Gary are at their best, this will be a huge challenge for Luton. It’s tough to make good decisions when you’re under instant pressure, even for experienced quarterbacks, but it’s all the more challenging for a rookie.

The Jaguars have allowed 25 sacks this season, seventh-most in the NFL.

Even if the Packers’ run defense isn’t great, the offense should put up points which will force the Jags to have to throw more often.

A concern for the Packers is the number of injuries in the secondary. Star corner Jaire Alexander is doubtful with a concussion and Kevin King is questionable with a quad injury. Safeties Will Redmond and Vernon Scott are both questionable.

If Luton has time to throw, he’ll be able to find his receivers. D.J. Chark is having a good season and can give this defense some problems. Alexander likely would’ve covered him in this game had he been healthy.

All the more reason why the pass rush needs to play well. With injuries in the secondary, the front seven needs to help out by generating pressure on the quarterback and forcing him into mistakes. And when bad throws are made and opportunities for turnovers arise, the defense needs to take full advantage.

This could be an ideal bounce-back game for Preston Smith, who only has half a sack this season. Za’Darius Smith and Clark will take most of the offensive line’s attention. If Preston Smith can get back to his best and this defense can consistently rush the passer, it’ll be game over.