Green Bay Packers keys to victory: Divisional round playoffs
Dec 28, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) lies on the ground after an injury in the second quarter during the game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
3. Adapt to Aaron Rodgers.
Aaron Rodgers will not be himself on Sunday, as the injury to his calf could limit his mobility outside of the pocket. Given the secrecy that shrouds injuries come playoff time, it’s safe to assume the injury is a little more serious than Rodgers and McCarthy have let on, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that Rodgers will be worse on Sunday. He’ll just be different.
This starts with protection up front, as the O-Line will need to continue on their impressive 2014 campaign. Getting them involved with some early running plays would be beneficial, and some screen passes to Eddie Lacy could help to take the bite out of the Cowboys’ front seven. This Dallas unit ranked T-6th for fewest passing TD’s allowed (22) and T-7th in INT’s (18), so they aren’t to be taken lightly.
Thankfully for Aaron Rodgers, the Cowboys were near the bottom of the NFL with just 28 sacks in 2014. Although Mike McCarthy won’t want his QB extending plays outside the pocket too often, the lack of Dallas pass-rush could afford Green Bay the extra split-second they need to develop routes.
Green Bay should not fear the Cowboys secondary, especially after the catch, so this must become a focal point of their offense much like it did against Detroit in Week 17. Nelson and Cobb both excel running after the catch, and if some strong runs from Eddie Lacy can lure the Cowboys closer to the line, one of Green Bay’s receivers may be able to split the safeties for a game-changing play.