Aaron Rodgers has a new title in Titletown, it’s starting quarterback. After three years behind Favre he will get a chance to lead the team. The green and gold faithful will be watching, as every play Rodgers makes or doesn’t make will be heavily scrutinized. This team is very talented which should make his job that much easier. Let’s see what the new general in Green Bay has to work with.
2008 Packers Offense: Backs and Receivers
This offensive group is lead by veteran receiver Donald Driver. Greg Jennings and James Jones were legitimate playmakers in ‘07. In just his second season Jennings really shined. He has tremendous big play ability, evidenced by his 12 touchdowns and almost 18 yards per catch. Jones also picked up the offense quickly. A rookie in’07 he caught 47 balls for just under 700 yards. With speedy rookie wide out Jordy Nelson from Kansas St, Rodgers shouldn’t have trouble finding someone open.
Ryan Grant will most likely start the season as the starting halfback. He was just what the Packers needed after their running game sputtered early on in ‘07. Over the last nine games Grant lead the league in rushing with 956 yards and 8 TD. Second year back Brandon Jackson, out most of ‘07 with injuries should supply more than enough support when summoned to take some of Grants workload.
The Packers also re-signed tight end Donald Lee. Lee contributed 48 receptions and 6 TD. Green Bay will need it’s running game to step up all year in 2008 for the Pack to succeed. For a team that ranked 21st in the league rushing a year ago, they’ll have to do better for Rodgers to be successful.
2008 Packers Defense: Linebackers Play Key Role
Nick Barnett and A.J. Hawk anchor a solid defensive unit. Hawk is a born tackler entering his third season in the NFL. Barnett also continues to improve, leading the team with 131 tackles a year ago. KGB and Aaron Kampman return to hold down the line and pressure the quarterback. The question will be if second year tackle Justin Harrell can play. Missing most of ‘07 with an arm injury Harrell will have to start alongside Ryan Pickett to help stop the run. The Packers can’t afford to lose ground on a rush defense that ranked 14th a year ago.
Charles Woodson teams with fellow cornerback Al Harris. Both players can cover any teams top receivers. Combine them with the ever physical Atari Bigby and playmaker Nick Collins at safeties, and you have a solid secondary. Barring injuries, the Packers should improve on a defense that ranked 11th overall in 2007.
Insight on 2008
Aaron Rodgers won’t be able to rank the Packers passing attack at 2nd in the league as in ‘07. He should however keep the team competitive throughout the 2008 campaign. Barring any injuries on either side of the ball, fans shouldn’t notice much of a drop-off from a team that is coming of a 13-3 season. The Packers should remain the class of the NFC North.
