What 2 Watch 4: Packers Versus Falcons

With a win over the Patriots, the Packers look to continue their playoff push with another big win against the Atlanta Falcons Monday Night. The Falcons, for their part, are riding a wave of confidence after beating the NFC leading Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. Here are three things the Packers will need to do to be successful against the Falcons.

1. Stop the run

The Packers have improved against the run and they will need to continue to excel against the Falcons. Last Sunday, Steven Jackson became the first running back to gain 100 yards against the Cardinals this year. This aspect of the defense has been a bit of an Achilles Heel so the Packers need to continue to stop the run first and force the Falcons to pass. If they can keep the Falcons one-dimensional, they should be able to get back on track winning the turnover battle in this one. But if they let Jackson get hot early, play action comes into play and the Packers may struggle against Julio Jones and Roddy White (assuming he is back).

2. Exploit the receiving advantage

Yes, the Packers need to run the ball, but they have so many weapons at receiver that they need to continue to move the ball through the air. The breakout game that Adams had against the Patriots needs to cement him (in this game) as an every down threat. Rodgers is another player that showed he could make plays. The Packers need to get these guys involved early and then hit Nelson or Cobb for the “shot” play.

3. Win the field position battle with special teams

If the Packers special teams continue to play well, this game could get out of hand quickly. Micah Hyde made a brilliant stab at picking up a touched ball against the Patriots. Mason Crosby had a kick out of bounds and a missed field goal, but also was responsible for enough points to make the difference in the game against the Patriots. The special teams are gaining confidence and field position is an understated key to winning in the NFL.

Your Green Bay Packers are in the driver’s seat and while this Falcons team is not a team to be taken lightly (none of them are), the Packers stand a good chance at Lambeau of continuing their march toward the playoffs. Packernation will be interested to see the fate of the Arizona Cardinals, who still have to play the Chiefs, Rams, Seahawks, AND 49’ers before the season is done. This season is definitely shaping up well for the Packers, no?

GO PACK!!!