Key Matchups
Chris Harris Jr. vs. Davante Adams
Perhaps the biggest matchup going into this game is how Strap Harris will fare against one of the top receivers in the NFL today. Adams has recorded 11 receptions for 142 yards. Ten of his eleven receptions have gone for first downs.
Safe to say that he is Aaron Rodgers’ go to player. Therefore, Chris Harris Jr. will need to have a strong showing against the Packers if the Broncos defense plans to shut them down.
Joe Flacco vs. Packers pass rush
If there is anything I have noticed in the first two games for the Denver Broncos, it is that Joe Flacco does a good job at getting rid of the football quickly. He also finds a way to escape sacks. While it was not good in the first game, there was improvement in the second game. He faced a lot of pressure, but finds a way to get the ball out in time.
He will look to do that again against the Packers. The defense of Green Bay has recorded six sacks this season, which averages to three a game. Denver’s offensive line and Joe Flacco’s awareness will need to be on point.
X-Factors
Garett Bolles
If we can go the game with limited mistakes by Garett Bolles on Sunday, Denver might have a chance. Bolles was penalized five times last week for holding. Three of which were accepted. He told the media that he does not know why he has this reputation for holding.
I just want to know, is the man blind? Kelly and I touched up on his comments and how much of a nightmare he was on our latest podcast. But, like John Elway said, the holding needs to stop. If he can keep the penalties to a minimum, this could be a win for the Broncos.
Aaron Rodgers
Remember what the Broncos defense was able to do to Aaron Rodgers on a Sunday Night Football game in Denver, the same night the team honored Pat Bowlen? Good times were had.
It is very rare that I say a quarterback is an X-Factor since he is the signal caller. But Rodgers’ performance could well determine who wins this game. If the pass rush can rattle him, Denver wins. But if he has all day to throw like on an island while deciding what activity he wants to do, then there are some problems.