Green Bay Packers: Under the Scope (Week 3)

Sep 28, 2015; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy (27) leaps over Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Josh Mauga (90) in the first quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Getting Creative in the Run Game

We all knew Eddie Lacy would not play at 100% this week because of his ankle injury he suffered the week prior. Even though he started the game in the Packers’ backfield, it was James Starks taking the bulk of the carries. That is not all that happened, however.

The Packers wanted to set the precedent early that they were more than willing to run the football and run it effectively. And they were even willing to get creative with the idea.

Early in the first quarter with 11:47, the Packers faced a second down and ten yards to go. Here, Green Bay dials up a reverse to none other than receiver Randall Cobb who takes it 11 yards for a first down. The Packers certainly know how to use their star receiver and he has proven that the more times he can get his hands on the ball, the better (remember those three red zone touchdowns?).

Green Bay’s rushing attack was so successful that the Chiefs were forced to load the box (Load the box… against Aaron Rodgers?). As a result, the Packers gained 123 yards on the ground and received contributions from Alonzo Harris and some timely scrambles by Rodgers.

The passing game starts with setting up the run and Green Bay certainly got it going early and often Monday night.

Next: Nate Palmer Earning His Job