Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers host the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football in NFL Week 2. Our Lions vs Packers preview examines game info, odds and key matchups that will decide this NFC North clash.
Find out where the Lions and Packers land in our latest NFL power rankings
Related: NFL QB Rankings – Check our top-20 quarterbacks, find out why Josh Allen is No. 1
Rodgers couldn’t do anything right against the New Orleans Saints in Week 1. The reigning NFL MVP made uncharacteristically bad decisions multiple times, sparking hot takes about him not really caring about the season. After posting the fourth-worst passer rating (36.8) of his career, the Lions vs Packers matchup is a great chance to rebound.
Click here for our Green Bay Packers 2021 game predictions
On the other side, the book is already written on Jared Goff. Many were skeptical about his abilities to be a high-end starter years ago and the past two seasons provided more evidence. But the Lions wanted to offer him a shot to turn his reputation around. That didn’t exactly happen against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1.
Advantage: Aaron Rodgers
A few weeks ago, head coach Dan Campbell wasn’t sure if D’Andre Swift would be in good enough shape to play in Week 1. Hours before the game, it was reported the 2020 second-round pick wouldn’t see a ton of reps. It turns out, Swift is just fine and he is more than capable of burning a team on the ground or as a receiver.
Dive into out Detroit Lions 2021 season forecast
The Packers should be worried about their defense. New Orleans walked all over this unit, racking up 171 rushing yards on 39 carries. Keep in mind, Alvin Kamara sat in the fourth quarter and backup Tony Jones Jr. played the first meaningful snaps of his NFL career. Given Detroit’s brand of football, it will pursue a similar approach in Week 2.
Advantage: D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams
Davante Adams knows Green Bay’s aerial attack was flat against the New Orleans Saints, a credit to outstanding double coverage by New Orleans and poor execution by the Packers. In a contract year, the All-Pro wide receiver wants Rodgers to take more shots even if there are two cornerbacks around. Fortunately for thi duo, Lions vs Packers is a “get right” moment.
Advantage: Davante Adams
The bottom line: The final Lions vs Packers score might be closer than many expect. Green Bay is playing without Za’Darius Smith and David Bakhtiari, phenomenal talents whose losses impact the team significantly on both sides of the ball. With that said, the Packers’ advantages on offense should help them win fairly easily and they’ll likely put up a ton of points.