Monday, November 10, 2008

Packers' Rushing Defense: Ugh

After yesterday's demoralizing loss to the Vikings came this bit of bad news out of Green Bay: Nick Barnett is gone for the season.

As the article points out, this will most likely have an impact on the Packers' already poor rushing defense.

Here's a look at what challenges lie ahead for the now depleted GB run defense:

Nov. 16 - Chicago
The Bears are middle of the pack rushing the ball, averaging 110 yards per game. Rookie Matt Forte is averaging just under 80 yards a game, and has over 700 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, with 0 fumbles.

Nov. 24 - at New Orleans
The Saints are statistically the 5th worst team running the ball - averaging about 90 yards a game. Star tailback Reggie Bush has missed time due to an injury, but he should be back for this game. Deuce McAllister is averaging less than 45 yards per game in the 7 games he has played in.

Nov. 30 - Carolina
The Panthers have one of the better running attacks in the NFL, and are averaging just under 120 yards per game. DeAngelo Williams has 4 touchdowns and is averaging about 73 yards per game, while rookie Jonathan Stewart has 5 touchdowns and averages over 40 yards per game.

Dec. 7 - Houston
The Texans are slightly worse than the Bears, and are averaging about 107 yards per game. Steve Slaton is the Texans' leading rusher, and he is averaging 60 yards a game and has 5 touchdowns.

Dec. 14 - at Jacksonville
The Jaguars average over 115 yards per game, and are led by Maurice Jones-Drew, who has 9 touchdowns in 9 games. He averages just 48 yards per game though.

Dec. 22 - at Chicago - See Above

Dec. 28 - Detroit
Much like everything else about the Lions, the rushing offense is woeful - 2nd worst in the NFL. The team averages just 75 yards per game, and their leading rusher (Kevin Smith) has compiled just 401 yards in 9 games.

Overall, Green Bay won't be catching any breaks the rest of the season. Out of all of the remaining opponents, only the Lions are equipped with an inept rushing offense. The good news is that the Pack won't have to face Adrian Peterson anymore in 2008.

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