The Packers move to 2-0 in the preseason after a 21-17 win over the Washington Redskins on Saturday. It was courtesy of yet another good showing on offense, although the pass defense’s effort on key plays (nine passes defended) was also quite notable.
The disruption of the passing lanes became the saving grace of the defense, as the pass rush was again unable to get to the opposing quarterback. Combining hits and sacks in the two exhibition games, the group is only getting to the QB four times game.
Green Bay’s own QBs are the biggest part of the two wins. Aaron Rodgers contributed nicely against the ‘Skins, as he connected on six of his eight passes, one of which resulted in a score. His backups are following through – Joe Callahan and Brett Hundley each had games with 100-plus passing yards, while Taysom Hill is starring both in throwing and rushing the ball.
Hill, an undrafted QB from Brigham Young University, was 4-for-5 for 69 yards with one passing touchdown in Week 1, and then went 6-for-11 for 49 yards in Week 2, while also running six times for 38 yards and one rushing TD. He led the team in rushing yards in both contests, and should be expected to showcase more in the next couple of weeks.
Although this is only the preseason, it’s still scary to see the Broncos win two games through their supposed-to-be-weak offense (22nd in scoring in 2016). They overpowered the Chicago Bears and San Francisco 49ers on the road, putting up 28.5 points per game.
Trevor Siemian, who has been named as team’s the starter for the regular season, is leading the fine scoring attack of the Broncos (14-for-21 for 144 yards and one TD). His two backups – Paxton Lynch and rookie Kyle Sloter – are also doing well, especially the undrafted Sloter, who has completed 12 of his 13 throws for 144 yards and has also tossed a touchdown.
Over in the backfield, another rookie is making waves: sixth-round pick De’Angelo Henderson. His opportunities are very limited, but he’s gaining good yardage whenever he has the ball – 13 carries for 84 yards and one touchdown.
As for the defense, it’s fairly decent overall. Their pass defense is allowing a 59.6 completion percentage (37-for-62), which is good since they have only reached the opposing QB five times in two games (four hits and one sack). Further, the front seven is also coming off a strong outing, as they held the 49ers to 1.9 yards per carry (19 carries for 37 yards).
Writer’s Prediction
The Broncos (-3) win a close one, 21-20, thus failing to cover the spread.
