3 bold predictions for Packers without Aaron Rodgers vs. Chiefs

3. Packers defense forces three turnovers

Credit where it’s due. The Packers’ defense — without Za’Darius Smith and Jaire Alexander for much of the season — has outperformed expectations. Where they’re particularly strong is taking the ball away. Only the Buffalo Bills and Indianapolis Colts have forced more turnovers than the Packers this season. Green Bay has 14 takeaways.

Believe it or not, the Chiefs’ high-powered offense has turned the ball over for fun. Kansas City leads the league in giveaways with 19, while Patrick Mahomes has an NFL-high 10 interceptions. Far too often when Mahomes has faced pressure, he’s opted for a risky pass instead of throwing it away. This has led to turnovers.

Defenses have taken away big plays from Kansas City’s defense by dropping safeties deep and preventing Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce from taking over the game. When Mahomes has to look elsewhere, it’s led to mistakes.

Fumbling has also been an issue for the Chiefs, who lead the league with nine.

This is no longer just a small sample size. Halfway through the season, the Chiefs still have one of the league’s best offenses when it comes to yards and points. They have arguably the NFL’s top trio of Mahomes, Hill, and Kelce. But they are also making far too many mistakes and struggling to find the same consistency as in recent years.

The Packers had three takeaways against the Arizona Cardinals last week. They get three more here.