Green Bay Packers: 5 Takeaways from Week 1 win over Vikings

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 13: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers speaks with head coach Matt LaFleur during the fourth quarter of the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 13, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Packers defeated the Vikings 43-34. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 13: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers speaks with head coach Matt LaFleur during the fourth quarter of the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 13, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Packers defeated the Vikings 43-34. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
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Green Bay Packers, David Bakhtiari (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
Green Bay Packers, David Bakhtiari (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

2. Despite shuffling around all game, the offensive line was outstanding

Entering Week 1, there were a few questions surrounding the Packers offensive line. Who would open the game at right tackle? Who would be the backup swing tackle? Fans got their answer when Elgton Jenkins, the rookie standout at left guard last year, got the start at right tackle. Last year’s starting right guard, Billy Turner, didn’t play due to injury.

The Packers’ starting offensive line looked like this (from left to right): David Bakhtiari, Lucas Patrick, Corey Linsley, Lane Taylor and Jenkins. Things quickly turned when both Taylor and Patrick exited with injuries. Rick Wagner entered the game at right tackle and Jenkins shifted back to left guard. Rookie Jon Runyan took over at right guard.

By the end of the game, the Packers’ offensive line had allowed just one quarterback pressure, according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required). Perhaps most impressive was the performance from Jenkins, who played 33 snaps at left guard and 47 at right tackle. Shuffling around isn’t easy mid game.

The Packers likely lost Taylor for the season due to an ACL injury, and it’s not clear how long Patrick could be out. Despite all that, with how the Packers O-line performed, Turner could be the odd man out returning from injury.