The first week is finally in the books. It seems like the Packers played the Bears a month ago, when in reality it has only been a week. I personally can not wait for their week 2 match-up against the Vikings on Sunday.
The Packers showed off their new and improved defense on national television to kick off the season, and wow did they impress. The defense was flying all over the field. They were getting to the quarterback, stopping the running back behind the line of scrimmage, filling the gaps and playing excellent coverage in the secondary.
As good as the defense was, the offense struggled. It was only the first week and it won’t stay that way. Rodgers and the offense will get rolling. This had to be extremely encouraging for Rodgers, as he realized he doesn’t have to do it all himself. As he said after the game, “We’ve got a defense”. It was said with a smile on his face.
As the season goes on and the Packers play tougher offensive opponents, it will be telling how good this defense really is. Week 1 against the Bears was a good start.
With their strong performance last Thursday night, the Packers moved up this week in ESPN’s latest NFL rankings. They are now ranked number 10.
This top 10 ranking doesn’t mean anything right now as it’s only week 2. The defense looked special but we have a long way to go. That’s not to say this won’t be a top 10 team at the end of the year, let’s just see how things progress.
According to ESPN and their ranking the Packers number 10 in their power rankings, they list Darnell Savage as the rookie who flashed in week 1. Savage played nearly every signal snap. The back end of the defense has never looked better since Nick Collins and Charles Woodson roamed the secondary. Savage and Adrian Amos not only anchor an revamped defense, they have helped revitalize it.
Being at home in week 2 against the Vikings, who the Packers open as a 3 point favorite, should be another good test for this team. Go Pack Go.
Anthony Haag is a writer for PackersTalk.com. He has been a Packers fan since the day he was born and truly bleeds green and gold. He makes annual visits to Lambeau Field and has attended his fair share of games. You can follow Anthony on Twitter at @anthony_haag
