The Green Bay Packers got back into the win column in Week 16 after losing two straight games. They went on the road and beat the Carolina Panthers 33-30 to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The Packers remain on the road in Week 17 to host their NFC North rivals, the Minnesota Vikings. This is a big game as both teams come into the game with 7-8 records. The loser is effectively eliminated from the playoff race.What can you expect in Green Bay? In an interview with the NFL Analysis Network, the former NFL executive believes the Packers will have the edge over the Vikings. A strong start right out of the gate will lead them to victory, said the former coach.
“I think Green Bay will come out early and jump on the Vikings. They are still alive in the playoff race. “Personally, I think the Packers will dominate this game and get one step closer to the postseason.”In the 2023 season opener, Minnesota won 24-10. But they’re nowhere near the Green Bay team they played in Week 8, and frankly, neither are the Vikings.
Minnesotais missing key players after starting quarterback Kirk Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury against the Packers. Tight end T.J. Hockenson was lost for the season with a torn ACL and MCL last week against the Detroit Lions, and D.J. Wonnum. The Packers were also on offense from their first meeting. Jordan Love will lead the way and be released despite the loss of wide receiver Christian Watson.
The return of Aaron Jones paid off last week as he continued to be a difference maker for Green Bay’s offense.For the Packers, this game is about defense. They were shaky on the left side of the ball and couldn’t stop when the team always needed them. Giving up 30 points to the Panthers shows how tough it was. Expect a game where both teams will be in contention for the playoffs. This could be quite extreme as the Packers and Vikings know what they risk if they lose a game.
