The Packers defeated their hated rivals on Sunday night 27-10. One key factor was the better play of the offensive line. Elgton Jenkins was back and started at right tackle. After the game, Matt LaFleur had an incredible quote about Elgton Jenkins.
LaFleur thinks Jenkins was the key to victory
At the postgame press conference, LaFleur praised Jenkins. “If he’s not in the lineup, we don’t win the game.” That is a bold statement. LaFleur went on to say that it wasn’t just about his play. Jenkins brings a certain something to the team that you cannot quantify. You could see it on the field. The line, which had been a huge problem throughout the preseason and week 1, had a confidence about them. The Packers in general seemed more confident on offense. Aaron Rodgers seemed more comfortable in the pocket. Everything seemed to gel better with Jenkins on the field. It is no wonder Matt LaFleur had such high praise for Elgton Jenkins.
The stats back up LaFleur’s quote
The Packers wanted to feature their running game more in this game. As a team, the Packers rushed for over 200 yards. A vast majority of those runs were to the right side of the line where Jenkins was lined up. Aaron Jones himself had 132 yards rushing and was often able to break huge runs. The passing game also looked more comfortable with Rodgers hitting a couple of deep shots to Sammy Watkins. While there were better vibes with Jenkins, the stats back it up.
Extension for Jenkins
Jenkins is up for an extension after this year. This should not be a question for the Packers. Jenkins is clearly the best offensive lineman they have now that David Bakhtiari has some health questions. He can line up anywhere and play any position at a high level. With some of the young talent the Packers have drafted on the line, Jenkins looks to be the anchor for many years to come.
Seeing Jenkins back has to excite Packers fans. If the Packers are going to make a deep run, they will need their line to play well. Matt LaFleur clearly thinks that having Elgton Jenkins back puts the Packers back on track. It will be interesting to see how the line does next week against a tough Tampa Bay front but the Packers should have confidence now that Jenkins is back.
More must-reads: