Week 10 Highs and Lows – Carolina Panthers
Last week was a stinker, plain and simple. The offense never quite got in rhythm due to inconsistent blocking and untimely penalties. Aaron Rodgers acknowledged the let down as a reminder they have to square up to sustain success. Green Bay’s defense did what they could to keep it close for 3 quarters while the offense sputtered. Hindsight makes this loss look worse considering the Chargers lost to the Raiders on Thursday night football. On to Carolina, the team has to use that inexplainable loss as motivation to grow.
The weather Sunday is expected to be the first cold game bringing the frozen tundra advantage back to Lambeau. Carolina comes into Green Bay with a record of 5-3 after defeating Tennessee (30-23) last weekend. Green Bay looks to secure a home win with only 2 more home games remaining, both coming in December. Carolina has a top 5 MVP candidate in Christian McCaffrey carrying their offense. Meanwhile, the Packers will need to emulate the Panther gameplan by featuring their star running back. The penalties and lack of rhythm hampered Aaron Jones and the Packers’ running game. Green Bay will have to find strategic openings in the passing game going against an impressive Panthers secondary of James Bradberry, Donte Jackson and Eric Reid.
High Expectations
Aaron Jones/Jamaal Williams
The Panthers are 28th in points allowed to running backs with 23.6 per game. Green Bay’s running game continues to be a dual threat attack with Jamaal Williams adding a versatile change of pace. Aaron outpaced Jamaal on the ground and Jamaal had more production via the pass, securing the team’s only touchdown. Matt LaFleur’s offense has shown to be able to support two fantasy relevant running backs. Expect Jamaal to have success rushing and Aaron to feature as the receiver of the day. Expect Aaron Jones to run for 40 yards while putting up 4 catches for another 60 yards. Jamaal Williams ends up with 75 yards on the ground and 20 yards receiving.
Davante Adams
Davante Adams is match up proof and his connection with Rodgers guarantees he leads the team in targets. He’s always expected a five catch minimum performance. Personally, I think Rodgers involves him often leading to 7 catches for 80 yards.
Low Expectations
Jimmy Graham
With a modest day from Rodgers, the touches outside of the running backs and Adams will remain limited. Jimmy is match up dependent as he simply cannot create enough winnable situations for himself. The Panthers are the 8th best in points allowed to tight ends at 5.6 per game and 4th in yards allowed to TE. Jimmy has shown to be a touchdown or bust play and I don’t expect him to get in the endzone Sunday afternoon. Assume he catches 3 passes for 35 yards.
Outlook
Hard to fathom the Packers immediately right the ship after that Los Angeles let down. Sloppy game through the air and the running backs carry the load again. Green Bay only chance of winning is outscoring Christian McCaffrey or holding him in check, the former being the likelier situation. Packers defense shows up at home and gives Kyle Allen a rough afternoon. Green Bay survives a 20-17 win and moves on to the bye week focused on closing the season strong.
Go Pack Go!
Brandon
Twitter: @BratFavre
