The Green Bay Packers’ disappointing performance against the Chargers in Los Angeles had roots in an uncharacteristically unfocused afternoon from the five starters along the offensive line.
That group bounced back in a major way on Sunday against the talented defensive front of the Carolina Panthers.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers was sacked just twice, including once for a short loss after an extended passing play, and he was rarely under pressure despite dropping back to pass 30 times in slippery conditions. The offensive line also dominated the line of scrimmage in the run game, opening gaping holes for running backs Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams – who rushed 26 times for 156 yards and three scores.
According to Field Yates of ESPN, Rodgers was pressured on just four total dropbacks and running backs were provided 3.6 yards before contact per rush against the Panthers.
“I think offensively the line deserves a lot of credit,” Rodgers said Sunday. “They were obviously frustrated by their performance last week and you look at today, we had a coverage sack and then one of those phantom minus half-yard sacks when I ran around there too long. Overall, the protection was really good and they controlled the line of scrimmage.”
In Los Angeles, the Packers committed four pre-snap penalties and gave up three sacks, including two on early third downs in the first half. The offense never got going, and many along the offensive line took the blame for the struggles.
They also took it on themselves to bounce back against a Panthers team that led the NFL in sacks entering Week 10.
Mission accomplished.
David Bakhtiari and Bryan Bulaga largely handled the Panthers’ edge rushers, while Elgton Jenkins, Corey Linsley and Billy Turner were highly effective moving people in the run game.
The Packers knew they had to bounce back from a poor performance, play better across the board and get to the bye week at 8-2. The offensive line led the way back on Sunday, protecting Rodgers against a terrific pass-rush and helping Jones and Williams out-rush Christian McCaffrey in an important win for Matt LaFleur’s team.
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