Packers: Five players key to victory in Week 14 vs. Lions
By Jesse Fry
2. Kamal Martin
This pick is more because I want to see what the rookie can do. There is no doubt what that Lions’ game plan will be. Run the ball control the clock. If Mike Pettine has learned anything over the last few weeks it’s that the defense is better in run support with Kamal Martin on the field.
Pettine likes to stay in his nickel and dime defense much to the detriment of the defense’s ability to stop the run.
Over the last few weeks he has stayed more in base and “big” nickel with Martin lining up next to Christian Kirksey. And the defense has been better for it.
Martin has made his share of rookie mistakes but he has also made his share of plays on the other side on the line of scrimmage. Martin has three tackles for a loss despite limited playing time. He is explosive and has the size to hold up well when the Lions run their three-headed attack at the Packers.
Green Bay should expect a heavy dose of Adrian Peterson, Kerryon Johnson, and D’Andre Swift, if recovered from illness.
Hopefully that means more of Martin.
With Raven Greene now on IR because of his shoulder injury, Pettine’s best bet is to let the rookie stay in there and get after the ball carrier.