3 things the Packers should prepare for against the Bengals

(Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
(Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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Three things the Packers need to prepare for in Week 5.

After a terrific performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Green Bay Packers are looking to continue their winning streak as they battle the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Bengals have three particular strengths that the Packers need to prepare for to emerge victorious.

Talented franchise quarterback Joe Burrow

It is no secret that Joe Burrow is a major contributor to the Bengals’ recent success as he is leading them in a positive direction. Coming off a torn ACL injury last season, Burrow is looking to shake things up.

Burrow is already making a name for himself in 2021 with 988 passing yards and nine touchdowns, which are terrific stats for a second-year quarterback.

Burrow is an explosive playmaker with the ability to pick apart defenses. With his amazing arm and ability to extend plays, he will eventually be a top NFL quarterback. If the Packers defense doesn’t get it together, Burrow will make them pay with his athleticism.

Running game

Though Burrow makes up a significant part of the Bengals’ offense, they also rely on the running game to get the job done with Joe Mixon leading the way. Mixon is a very talented running back with his ability to power his way through opponents and fight for extra yards. The Bengals also utilize Mixon in the passing game as he can navigate his way through the secondary.

Mixon is an outstanding playmaker. One of the Packers’ primary defensive strategies should be to contain Mixon to shut down the Bengals’ running game.

Note: Mixon’s status for Week 5 is unclear as he didn’t practice on Wednesday.

Explosive wide receivers

Cincinnati has some of the best wide receivers in the NFL who will have a big game if given the chance. Tyler Boyd, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins are amazing athletes for Joe Burrow to work with, which makes for a dangerous offense. Once those terrific playmakers find their stride, defenders have a hard time covering them.

It is absolutely crucial for the Packers’ secondary to have an excellent game against this talented receiving group.

Due to Jaire Alexander’s injury, the Packers will heavily rely on Eric Stokes and Chandon Sullivan to cover the ball. It will be a tall task for the Packers’ secondary.