The Packers home opener against the Jets looks like the perfect opportunity for Green Bay to get back on track after an embarrassing showing against the Seahawks. And with three successive games against NFC North opponents to follow, getting back on track is not just important, it is paramount.

But the Packers cannot afford to overlook the Jets in this game, while it could hardly be earlier in the season, with the Packers schedule it looks like a fast start is at stake in this game because with away games at the Bears and the Lions coming up to falter now may jeopardize the Packers situation toward the end of the season.

On the other hand, a good showing against the Jets could be just the confidence boost this team needs. But this will not be a walk in the park.

Number 1 defense

The Jets, right now are the number one defense in rushing yards allowed, passing yards allowed, and overall defense. I know, I know, we’ve only played one game, but this defense is already believing in itself and that is something the Packers defense cannot say. Add to that, the fact that the Lions defense (and we know they are for real) is in second place and it looks like the Packers offense will not see a great deal of let-off in the near future. But that creates an opportunity. The Seahawks have a great defense and the Packers offense faltered against it. Time to start making a statement.

Number 1 rushing attack

For all the excitement this year’s running back corps brought to Green Bay, they only produced 80 yards collectively against the Seahawks. The Jets, on the other hand,  nonchalantly rolled out Chirs Johnson and Chris Ivory and with the addition of a few yards from Geno Smith, put up 212 yards on the ground. Now the Raiders are not the same defense as the Seahawks but it looks like this game is going to be another chance for the Packers to show that they can be stout against the run, a bandwagon that right now seems to carry nothing but hay and a harmonica player.

Another opportunity

No matter what the stats, the year is still young and the Packers still have their own destiny in their hands. A fast start seems to be more important this season than it ever has before with the entire lineup of the NFC North within the first five weeks. I look for the Packers to win this one, but I don’t think it will be easy. I, for one, will be holding my breath, waiting for the injury report to find out if Eddie Lacy is sure to play. But what do you think Packernation?

Give me your keys to the game in the comment section below.

GO PACK!!!