Packers’ defense must pass huge test vs. Dolphins in Week 16

The Green Bay Packers have won back-to-back games, but their opponents had a combined seven wins.

Up next is a far greater challenge on the road against the Miami Dolphins. Green Bay’s defense takes on one of its toughest tests of the season, and it’s one they must pass.

Despite losing three games in a row, the Dolphins boast one of the league’s most electric offenses.

Miami desperately needs to win to improve its playoff chances, especially after dropping three straight games on the road.

The Dolphins rank fifth in total offense this season, and their passing offense is third. They score plenty of points, ranking ninth with an average of 24.6 per game.

Miami’s offense struggled somewhat in defeats to the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Chargers but bounced back against the Buffalo Bills, despite losing the game.

Last week in Buffalo, Tua Tagovailoa threw for 234 yards and two touchdowns, while Raheem Mostert rushed for 136 yards.

The Packers’ secondary must be prepared for a dominant receiving duo in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.

Both players are inside the top seven for receiving yards this season. Hill (second) has caught 109 passes for 1,529 yards and seven touchdowns. Waddle (seventh) has made 62 receptions for 1,117 yards and seven touchdowns.

At running back, the Dolphins have Raheem Mostert.

The Packers know what happens when you give him an opportunity. They will remember the 2019 NFC Championship Game, when Mostert rushed for 220 yards and four touchdowns with the San Francisco 49ers.

Green Bay’s defense has impressed in its past two games, giving up just 15.5 points per contest. Justin Fields and Baker Mayfield combined for one passing touchdown with three interceptions.

But the Packers must pass a more challenging test on Sunday afternoon in Miami.

They know they must hand the Dolphins a fourth straight defeat to keep their season alive. It starts with the defense, who must step up and play their best football.