Detroit Lions: 3 ways to slow Aaron Rodgers in Week 2 vs. Packers

Strategy #2: Blitz Green Bay’s injury-riddled offensive line frequently

The Packers offensive line is currently weathering a storm of injuries, which has forced the team to shuffle players all across the line. Right guard Lane Taylor left last weekend’s game with a knee injury and will be expected to miss the remainder of this season. However, he’s not the only starting lineman currently missing time.

Billy Turner, a projected starter at right tackle, also missed the Minnesota game with a knee injury of his own. Because of the injuries to both Taylor and Turner, the Packers decided to move left guard Elgton Jenkins over to right tackle, which forced Lucas Patrick to fill in at left guard before exiting the game in the first half after injuring his shoulder.

Subsequently, free-agent acquisition and former-Lion Rick Wagner took over at right tackle. Meanwhile, Jon Runyan Jr., a sixth-round rookie from Michigan, made his professional debut at right guard.

Right now, the Packers’ offensive line is banged up and lacks depth. Blitzing this makeshift band of misfits regularly will create a lot of stress and confusion upfront, which could bide the Lions’ marginal defensive line some time with hopes of getting to Rodgers. Otherwise, the Lions won’t stand a chance. Rodgers would pick them apart. Play by play.