How the Packers can upset the KC Chiefs without Aaron Rodgers

2. Force turnovers

What the Packers will want to avoid in this game is a shootout. A battle of two offenses. No matter how bad the Chiefs’ defense might be, going head-to-head with Patrick Mahomes in a high-scoring game is only ending one way.

Green Bay came away with three turnovers in last week’s victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

Uncharacteristically, the Chiefs haven’t protected the football well this season. Only eight games in, Patrick Mahomes has thrown 10 interceptions. He threw 11 picks in 2019 and 2020 combined.

The Chiefs are -11 in turnover differential, which is tied for worst in the league with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Their defense only has eight takeaways while the offense has given it away 19 times.

Joe Barry’s defense will need to follow the same formula many other teams have found success with. Take away the big play, generate some pressure, and force Mahomes to play off-schedule. If the Chiefs play like they have for much of the season, there will be opportunities for the defense to take the ball away.

For the Packers to upset the Chiefs on the road, they need to play turnover-free football on offense and steal a possession or two on defense. Kansas City has turned it over a lot so far in 2021.