The Carolina Panthers will face one of the NFL’s top teams tonight when they visit the Green Bay Packers, who currently have the best record in the conference. An upset seems like a long shot, but it’s not impossible.
Here are four keys to the game that could help them get there.
Offense: No turnovers, target Christian Kirksey
Avoiding turnovers is important in every matchup. However, when you’re facing a far superior opponent like this one, maximizing every possession becomes critical. Teddy Bridgewater needs to be more aggressive but he also has to make smart decisions and avoid throwing interceptions, of which he has eight so far this season. A single mistake could cost Carolina the game.
There’s not many weak points in this Green Bay defense, but there’s a glaring one right in the middle. Linebacker Christian Kirksey will be the most vulnerable defender on the field. In eight games this year, Kirksey has allowed six touchdowns and a 121.4 passer rating in coverage. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady’s gameplan should be putting Kirksey into conflict as often as possible.
Defense: Pressure Aaron Rodgers, double Davante Adams
At 37 years old, Aaron Rodgers is having another MVP-worthy season. He’s only had one bad game so far this year, which came Week 6 against the Buccaneers. As you might expect, Tampa’s ability to get to No. 12 was a key factor in their 38-10 blowout win. Rodgers was sacked four times and hit 13 times in that matchup. Carolina’s pass rush is not as potent, but any pressure they can get will be important for disrupting his rhythm.
Speaking of rhythm, Rodgers has been lighting it up with his No. 1 wide receiver Davante Adams this season. Adams leads the NFL in touchdown catches and receiving yards per game. If Rodgers and Adams start clicking and get their backyard football routine going, the Panthers won’t stand a chance. Carolina doesn’t have any corners who can cover Adams one-on-one, so defensive coordinator Phil Snow needs to consider sending safety help over the top every time Adams runs a route.
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