Toughest challenges in Packers first five games of 2023 season

Week 4: vs. Detroit Lions

After defeating the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to open the 2023 NFL season, the Lions proved they will again be a force.

The Lions ended the Packers' playoff hopes by defeating them in Week 18 last season, and they retained offensive coordinator Ben Johnson despite head coaching interest around the league. 

They not only boast top players on offense in receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and quarterback Jared Goff, but they coupled former Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery with dynamic rookie Jahmyr Gibbs, who they selected 12th overall in 2023, to shape out an improved backfield.

They also added a top pass-catching tight end at pick 34 in the 2023 draft, Sam LaPorta. LaPorta immediately proved a strong rapport with Goff, securing all five targets against the Chiefs.

Despite all this, the Lions offensive line could make the biggest impact in this game.

PFF ranks this group fifth heading into 2023 after not ranking outside the top 10 at any point last season.

Not only are Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow top-five players at their positions, this group comprises three first-rounders, a third-rounder, and a top-paid free agent.

Goff is a statue in the pocket, but if you give him time, he has the talent, play-caller, and weapons to take a defense up and down the field.

It will be essential for Green Bay's front seven to generate pressure, but that task is easier said than done against the Lions' O-line. If the Packers struggle to control the line of scrimmage, their defense could be in for a long day.