The Packers offense and defense both receive a welcome boost at an opportune time as the team heads to Washington to face the Redskins on the road at FedEx Field Sunday.
With Aaron Rodgers’ ailing left knee, the return of explosive Aaron Jones from a two-game suspension adds a different dimension to the running game.
Green Bay will need all the offensive weapons and options at its disposal against the Redskins top-ranked defense, which yields just 247 total yards per game and is also first against the pass with a 161-yard average.
And the return of rookie inside linebacker Oren Burks from a shoulder injury will bolster a unit that will contend with Washington’s run-pass option offense engineered by quarterback Alex Smith.
Of utmost importance for the Packers is that #12 is able to take the field.
“What else can I say about Aaron Rodgers, he’s a gutsy player—he could have played in my era,” said Ditka, when quarterbacks were not protected by the league rules of today. “He’s a leader and the Packers rally around him. As I’ve said before, he’s better on one leg than most QBs on two.
“But it’s good they get Jones back—the play action can help set up the pass against that Washington defense. They are a good, tough unit and the game’s at their stadium. The Packers will have to play a complete game in all three phases.”
Last week against the Vikings, Rodgers did not practice until Saturday, but played with a brace throughout the 29-29 tie against the NFC North rival Vikings at Lambeau Field.
That same routine is being followed in preparation for Green Bay’s first road test of the season.
Week 3 NFL Predictions
Browns
Eagles
Panthers
Jaguars
Falcons
Broncos
Texans
Dolphins
Vikings
Chiefs
Rams
Bears
Seahawks
Patriots
Steelers
While Vikings host the 0-2 Buffalo Bills, Green Bay faces first road test in 1-1 Washington. Aaron Rodgers and offense versus NFL’s top-rated defense. Rodgers win dual with Alex Smith in a grinder.
Packers 27, Redskins 21.
