The Packers head into Week 1 with a lot to sort out, even before they step into U.S. Bank Stadium to face the Vikings.
On paper, Green Bay has the stronger roster overall. But this opener is hardly a layup, and one analyst is already pointing to a spot that could decide how cleanly Jordan Love and the offense operate.
That concern starts up front. Warren Sharp said the Packers’ offensive line may not be moving in the right direction, and he sees a real chance that unit could slip a little against a Minnesota defense led by Brian Flores.
“Look, that [Packers offensive] line is very similar to what it was last year, but a slight step backward in my opinion,” Warren Sharp told Matthew Coller, H/T Heavy. “I don’t think that they’re moving forward; I think they’re at the same level and potentially have the opportunity to take a step backward.
“I think the consistency of the line is the one good element here because they have gone up against Brian Flores’ defense. They know what to expect.
It’s not as if you’re taking Brian Flores and going up against a non-divisional opponent in Week 1. So [Packers head coach Matt LaFleur] and the OC and the offensive line coach, they know how to prepare those guys.”
That familiarity could help Green Bay get ready, but it doesn’t erase the challenge. Flores’ defense has been one of the NFL’s best over the past few years, and the Packers’ line will have to handle the pressure that comes with it.
There’s also uncertainty hanging over the rest of Green Bay’s Week 1 picture. It remains unclear whether Josh Jacobs will be available, adding another layer of doubt to a game that already comes with plenty of questions for the Packers.
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The early slate also looks more forgiving than what this team has had to navigate in other seasons, and that matters for a club trying to build momentum quickly. When the offense under Matt LaFleur and Jordan Love has had its core available, it has shown a steadier level of play, which is part of why there is some quiet confidence around this group. If the Packers can take advantage of this opening stretch, they could spend a lot less time surviving and a lot more time proving they belong in the conversation. [Read more 🡒]