Packers: Five players key to victory in divisional round vs. Rams
By Jesse Fry
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5. Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams
My last entry is a two-for-one and why shouldn’t it be?
Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams have torched everyone they have come up against and if they can again, it will go a long way in getting the Packers to the NFC Championship Game.
Rodgers helped Adams set team records all season long while Adams is a big reason why Rodgers is likely to win his third MVP. They have been joined at the hip all season long so why should their biggest game to date be any different?
This is also their biggest challenge to date. Jalen Ramsey is one of, if not the best cornerback in the league while the Rams’ pass rush can make life extremely difficult for Rodgers.
Outside of one play, Ramsey and company didn’t give up big plays last week to a receiver tandem that’s known for big plays. But, Adams is not DK Metcalf or Tyler Lockett. Adams is a complete receiver who can and will run the full route tree from any position on the offense.
Rodgers may also have to be patient and take the check-downs more than he’d like to, passing on the big-play attempts. Matt LaFleur should also play to both players’ strengths.
Rodgers is as cerebral as they come and his connection with Adams is second to none. Get the ball out of Rodgers’ hands quick and allow Adams to muscle his way over and past Ramsey. Doing this early could set up a big-play shot later in the game.
Adams’ quick feet and release at the line are legendary and his route-running could set up double moves if Green Bay seems content on taking short passes against the Rams’ rush.
Adams got the better of Ramsey four seasons ago in their matchup. But that was a long time ago and much has changed. However, if Adams and Rodgers stick to what they do best and avoid the trap of Ramsey chirping all game long, there’s no reason why they can’t have the same success they have had all season long.
To steal a phrase from Good Ol’ JR, this has the potential to be a slobberknocker. The Rams’ defense is very real and will pose a big hurdle for the Packers.
To the same effect, there’s a reason Rodgers will likely be a three-time MVP. It will be strength versus strength. All-Pros versus All-Pros. How well Adams and Rodgers fare will likely be the difference in the game.
Green Bay worked hard all season to get this game at home. They will get help from approximately 8,000 fans that will be allowed into the game. But, as of now, the elements won’t be that rough. Game-time temps should be right around freezing with no snow in the forecast at the moment.
The field will only be tilted slightly in their favor. It’s going to take the Packers’ best players playing their best to come out ahead in this one.
dark. Next. Five breakout stars for the Packers in 2020