There has been a lot of hype about the Packers defense throughout training camp. Because many starters did not play in the first preseason game, many were looking forward to the joint practice with the Saints. This would provide a small look into how the defense fairs against real competition. They did not disappoint. The Packers defense looked amazing in the joint practice with the Saints.
Relentless Pass Rush
The Packers pass rush was on fire today. Everyone got in on the sack party. Names you expect to hear like Rashan Gary and Preston Smith did well but Quay Walker, J.J Enagbare, and Tipa Galeai also had sacks. Back up Kobe Jones also had a stellar day recording multiple sacks. When they were not getting to the quarterback, the defensive line was swatting passes and stuffing runs. The Saints could get nothing going and were constantly under pressure by the Packers defense in the joint practice.
Ball Hawking Secondary
The secondary benefitted from the relentless pass rush. The Packers had multiple pass breakups and a couple of picks. Rasul Douglas was all over the field and jawing at any Saints player he came in contact with. The constant pressure forced bad throws that the Packers easily defending. It is worth noting that starting QB Jameis Winston did not participate so back ups Andy Dalton and Ian Booth were throwing passes today. Despite that, it is encouraging to see the secondary lock down a great receiving corp.
What About the Offense?
The Packers offense did okay. The Saints defense is also tough and the Packers struggled throughout the day. However, the Packers found success in the red zone drills with touchdowns to Sammy Watkins and, yes you guessed it, Romeo Doubs. Ultimately, the offense is trying to fit more pieces in than the defense is right now. I expect this year to be like what this practice was. Defense dominating and the offense coming through when they need to.
It is great to see the Packers defense dominate at the joint practice. While it is still a practice, they looked dominate and hungry to shut down defenses. I wrote an article last week about how the Packers could break the team sack record and after this practice, I am becoming more convinced it isn’t impossible. This is going to be a fun unit to watch this season.
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