The Packers go into the bye week 9-3 and still don’t have a real identity outside of “find a way to win.” Last season the Packers offense was highlighted by an MVP season by Aaron Rodgers and an explosive attack from Aaron Jones. However this year the Packers backfield hasn’t been soley featuring Aaron Jones. AJ Dillon has taken on a bigger role than Jamal Williams in previous years. Dillon has been so productive that it raises the question: Who is the Packers’ lead back.
Stats
Both of the Packers starting running backs have put up very similar statlilnes. Jones has played one less game and is listed as the starter. Dillon has played all 12 games and has a growing role in the offense.
Aaron Jones
- 133 Carries
- 564 Yards
- 4.2 Y/A
- 3 TD
- 37 Receptions
- 298 Yards
- 4 Receiving TD
AJ Dillon
- 128 Carries
- 543 Yards
- 4.2 Y/A
- 2 TD
- 27 Receptions
- 261 Yards
- 2 Receiving TD
Both backs have been productive on the ground and through the air, both have also seen an almost identicle share of touches, and both backs have very different styles that they bring to the offense. Jones is described more as a slasher while Dillon is more of a bruiser.
What Does Coach Say?
“It’s 1a and 1b… They both bring something to the table”
Matt LaFleur
After the game against the Los Angeles Rams Matt LaFleur was asked if AJ Dillon could be the starter even if Aaron Jones was 100 percent healthy. Jones, who is still recovering from an MCL sprain, didn’t have his best game against the Rams. Dillon, on the other hand, had a monster game.
Both backs when healthy are capable of taking a game over in different ways. Jones ability to make guys miss and explode through small gaps makes him lethal in the open field. Dillon is special in the fact that he’s so big and athletic. He rarely goes down at first contact and can wear a defense down.
Even though Matt LaFleur doesn’t say there is a clear cut number one, any given week there is one. It simply depends on the game. It looks like games where the cold weather is a factor that Dillon will carry the load. Otherwise, it looks to be mix of both guys with Jones getting slightly more opportunities
As Always
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