The Green Bay Packers have clinched the NFC North Division, but their work isn’t done quite yet. The Packers still have their eyes set on the top seed in the NFC, which would grant them a first-round bye in the playoffs. Winning out is the easiest way to do it, but their Christmas present this year is a tough Cleveland Browns team in Week 16.
Green Bay will hopefully spread some holiday cheer this Saturday when they face off against Cleveland. The Browns are still hopeful of competing in the playoffs, but opportunities are running thin. They moved to 7-7 on the season after suffering a brutal loss to the Las Vegas Raiders last week, with multiple key players missing the game due to COVID-19.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield was among those that sat out in Week 15, but he could be back for Saturday’s game. Mayfield hasn’t put up compelling numbers in 2021, but his play has been solid. Most of the offensive production has rested on the shoulder of their run game. Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt combine for one of the best backfield duos in the league and are currently fifth in rushing yards per game.
With the 12th ranked run defense, the Packers will have their work cut out for them. This Browns’ team has very little room for error as another loss could dash their chances at the postseason. So if their run game is what will lead them there, that’s what they will likely lean on.
Of course, Green Bay’s defense may have an answer. Let’s see what that might be in this week’s look at key matchups.