The Packers have locked up the number one NFC playoff seed and home field advantage throughout the playoffs. However, head coach Matt LaFleur made it clear that they aren’t going to Detroit to rest their starters. The Packers are a hungry squad and the leaders on the team don’t want it all to be for nothing because they rested for an extra week in a so-called “meaningless game.” With that, here’s three bold predictions as the Packers close out the 2021 season:
Rodgers and Love will combine for 350 yards and 4 TDs Sunday at Detroit
With arguably the best Packers team since 2011, many fans remember with a sour taste how that season ended. Reportedly Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams both desire to keep the foot on the gas. Therefore, expect both Rodgers and Jordan Love to see the field Sunday in Detroit. With the improving health of the team as a whole, Rodgers and Love are both primed to show up with big numbers Sunday. Each of them will have two touchdown passes and they will combine for at least 350 yards passing.
Jaire Alexander sees his first action in weeks
Of all the injuries the Packers roster has suffered this year, perhaps none could have happened at a worse time for All-Pro corner Jaire Alexander. With the approaching decision regarding an extension for Alexander, he’s hungry to show that he deserves the new deal and will be eager to show everyone why on Sunday. LaFleur has indicated that it if Alexander shows he’s ready to play at a level that is expected of him, he will be on the field Sunday against the Lions. Nobody can say that those who’ve stood in for Alexander haven’t been up to the task of replacing an elite NFL corner, albeit temporarily and Alexander will want to show out against the Lions on Sunday. Expect a big performance from Alexander should he be cleared to play.
Rasul Douglas gets 2 interceptions
Not to be outdone, CB Rasul Douglas will still get plenty of snaps should Alexander return to the field Sunday. He will make the most of his opportunities. Douglas is arguably the best mid-season pickup over the last quarter century in Green Bay. He already has five interceptions in 11 games, including game-sealing picks against Cleveland and in Arizona. On Sunday, he’ll close out the 2021 season with two interceptions against the Lions. This will give the Packers plenty to think about as they approach the offseason and free agency. (After they win the Super Bowl, of course.)
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