Aaron Rodgers struggled in Week One
Aaron Rodgers probably would like to have several plays back from the Green Bay Packers’ loss in Week One to the Minnesota Vikings. Rodgers finished with under 200-yards passing and only one touchdown pass in the game. Those stats are unlike what Packers fans have come to expect from the back-to-back MVP.
Rodgers didn’t have much help with his supporting cast. With their expected number one wide receiver, Allen Lazard, out with an injury, the Packers were relying on rookies, like Christian Watson, who hadn’t played in the preseason. Watson’s inexperience showed on his first target when he dropped a likely touchdown pass.
This drop by Christian Watson hurt so bad to watch
pic.twitter.com/wpNkaV4f8I— Luke Sawhook 🪚🪝 (@lukesawhook) September 11, 2022
Rodgers, who had made it clear in the preseason that he was irritated with drops by the wide receivers group, played more conservatively in the passing attack after the drop. He chose to target his running backs and tight end. Those choices were something Rodgers and head coach Matt LaFleur hinted the offense would scheme for.
Armchair quarterbacks didn’t like the conservative play
Twitter analyzed Rodgers’ play after the loss. Videos and pictures were posted of plays they thought Rodgers could make.
WTD WERE YOU DOING @AaronRodgers12 https://t.co/RJRFT8PjdF
— PaidWill (@IamJaayWilliams) September 14, 2022
Great point! Rodgers needs to throw the ball to the open man! https://t.co/ZPQ2vGCMAd
— Mr. Rudey- (@MrRudeyHolla) September 13, 2022
2 mfs open on that play https://t.co/dx3Fbz7jfG
— Xanthony Rizzo (@imfakeasfuck) September 14, 2022
Fraudgers is nothing without devante https://t.co/tBuQ5Rdeph
— Phillip McCavity (@philmccavity47) September 14, 2022
Why does rodgers refuse to throw to open receivers??? https://t.co/o3N5aICf9e
— b$i⚡️ (@bsiwrld) September 13, 2022
Rodgers didn’t have the tools he needed to make plays
The analysis seems to forget about how bad the entire offense was. Not only could Rodgers not trust his wide receivers, who he’s worked with all camp, but the trodden offensive line sent pressure his away. Rodgers was sacked four times for 33 yards. It’s hard for Rodgers to make the long throws Packers fans are begging for when he’s running for his life.
Rodgers needs some help with his receivers and line to be successful. The Packers should be healthier on offense this week. We should see how the offense can do with the talent on the field the team was supposed to have this season before hitting the panic button.
