The Green Bay Packers may have defeated the Seattle Seahawks in shutout fashion last week. However, the offense did not look that great for most of the game. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, especially, appeared to be out of rhythm. This, of course, was due to the fact that he had missed time after testing positive for the COVID-19 virus. Not only did Rodgers miss the game against the Kansas City Chiefs, but he also missed nearly two weeks of practice.
Not Much Practice Time
What many do not realize is how little practice time Aaron Rodgers has had in the last few weeks. Testing positive for COVID shortly after attending a Halloween party did not cost him his first practice reps of the past month. According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, Rodgers had not really practiced since October 22.
Mental Health Days and a Toe Injury
When Aaron Rodgers was cleared to return from the COVID-19 Reserve List, he was immediately added to the injury report with a toe injury. He did not have a full practice with the offense prior to the win over Seattle. This would explain why the offense looked so sloppy at times. The game took place on November 14. Rodgers was last a full participant in practice, at that point, on October 22. That is a span of 23 days.
Earlier this week, Aaron Rodgers was not in attendance for practice. When asked about his absence, Rodgers said that these were planned mental health days and that he would be playing on Sunday. Head coach Matt LaFleur echoed these sentiments when he spoke to the media as well.
Outlook for Sunday Versus the Vikings
The Green Bay Packers are in a good position atop the NFC North. With eight wins, Green Bay has more wins than the rest of the division combined. That, however, does not mean the Minnesota Vikings (4-5) will just lay down for them. Green Bay may be without Allen Lazard and MVS. Additionally, Aaron Jones will miss a couple of weeks after spraining his MCL against Seattle.
With the offense banged up and Aaron Rodgers low on practice reps over the past month, the Green Bay Packers offense may look just as sloppy this week as it did last week. AJ Dillon will be a bright spot and should receive plenty of looks in both the running and passing games. Hopefully, the defense can remain as dominant as they have looked for the majority of this season.
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