The Packers have Everything to Prove versus Eagles

On offense, this team must start fast. Losing Tucker Kraft for the season is a devastating blow. However, Matt LaFleur has done some of his best coaching work when down key players. Sometimes, it seems LaFleur is overwhelmed by too many mouths to feed in the offense.

When LaFleur is forced to get creative, his ability as a play caller is in focus. Last season, his three-game stretch with Malik Willis as a starter was praised. It is time for a more dynamic game plan, one where Jordan Love feels like he has the reins in order to flourish.

I continue to believe in Jordan Love and feels like he has shown in big time moments that he is the quarterback to lead this team. Now, it is up to everyone around him to put the offense in situations to showcase this.

The Defense Needs a Complete Performance

On defense, the pieces are undoubtedly there. However, through the first half of the season, it seems like there has not been a complete performance. It seems as though they are trying to still establish an identity.

Yes, you have Micah Parsons, which opens up the rest of the pass rush to generate pressures and sacks. However, the cornerback play has been lackluster. Penalties continue to plague the team, erasing positive plays for the defense.

The Eagles are an up and down offense. Nonetheless, last season they were able to figure it out when it mattered most. As the defending Super Bowl Champions, they will be out to prove that they still are the top team in the NFC. While the Seahawks and Rams are inching closer, this can be the statement the Eagles need.

All the more reason for the Packers to come out ready to play. This team can simply not afford to arrive flat if they want to compete in the postseason.

The Puzzling Special Teams

Last week, I made my opinions known on the kicker situation. While I wish special teams were not this big of the deal, you have to look at the entire picture. The decision to play Brandon McManus tonight is baffling.

I will stand by this take win or lose; you simply do not take the player out who kicked a franchise record setting kick. Not only that, but Lucas Havrisik is not nursing an injury. It goes back to the stubbornness of the coaching staffs I have noticed in LaFleur’s tenure.

In the Packers two losses this season, it has come down to the kicking game. If it comes down to this tonight, I can only imagine the fury that Packers fans will have.

Overall, both teams have a lot to prove tonight. This game has potential to be one of the most entertaining games. If the Packers and the Eagles bring their A games, we are in for another classic between two NFC heavy weights.