The star of the Packers first preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers last week was without a doubt, rookie kicker Trey Smack. Smack was a perfect 3/3 from field goal range. Technically, he was 4/4 but a Steelers penalty gave the Packers a first down, wiping the field goal off the board. It was an extremely exciting performance for Smack but consistency is critical in the NFL. Packer Fans will want to see if Smack can do it again in Denver tomorrow night.
Since Mason Crosby retired, the kicking position has become one of heart break for the Packers. Green Bay has failed to find their next kicker to follow in the legendary footsteps of Mason Crosby. Two of the three recent playoff losses can be attributed to Anders Carlson and Brandon McManus missing critical field goals. Smack was a premiere college kicker at Florida. He has a big leg and is filled with potential so there is hope.
His performance against the Steelers, and even during Family Night, is encouraging. Especially since, Smack has struggled on the practice field. Smack was good from 37 yards, 58 yards, and 38 yards in Pittsburgh. He drilled a second 58 yard field goal before it was wiped away by a Pittsburgh penalty. Smack showed his ability to hit from deep as well as convert from moderate distance. The 58 yarder that did count came at the end of the half. Smack displayed a little bit of clutchiness.
Trey Smack Needs to Show Some Consistency
Consistency is the key to success in the NFL, especially as a kicker. Trey Smack’s first game was certainly impressive but, it is still too early to crown him. Smack will need to build off that performance. Smack will be faced with anther tough challenge in Denver. Pittsburgh is regarded as one of the hardest places to kick in the NFL. Smack will now get a chance to kick at elevation. If Smack finishes the Bronco game with a similar performance, that consistency will start to grow.
The Packers should expect Smack to struggle at times. Smack will certainly miss a field goal at some point but, a strong preseason performance should not only give the Packers and Packer fans confidence, it should give Smack confidence as well. A strong game in Denver could push the envelope for long snapper Cal Adomitis. Long Snapper Matt Orzech has not practiced yet so far this season. If the Packers kicking operation of Smack, Whelan, and Adomitis continue to execute, it might create a more challenging decision for Packers GM Brian Gutekunst.
The Packers are excited about Trey Smack. Against the Steelers, Smack handled the kickoffs quite well, too. Smack kept the ball in the landing zone more times than not. Smack might just be a gamer despite the struggles during practice. Hopefully, Smack will hear Matt LaFleur’s familiar message of “building off performances” and keep the train rolling down the tracks against the Broncos.
