Zielinski: A Packers’ victory is in the Cards

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Green Bay Packers’ chances of making the playoffs are slim and changes are likely coming to the coaching staff and roster after the season.

Despite the Packers’ struggles, they have a favorable matchup against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at Lambeau Field. They are 4-0-1 on their home turf and face a team that is 2-9 and has lost three straight contests.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers hasn’t played up to his standards this season, but he also doesn’t have the weapons around him like he did in previous years.

The Packers’ offensive line will have their hands full with Arizona defensive end Chandler Jones (pictured), who has 11 sacks this season. Jones’ ability to get to pressure Rodgers will be critical for the Cardinals, especially with their secondary struggling to slow down opposing passing attacks this season.

The Cardinals have the worst offense in the NFL. They rank last in points (14.1), yards (232.5), passing yards (155.2) and rushing yards (77.3) per game this season. Rookie QB Josh Rosen has been inconsistent and has thrown more interceptions (11) than touchdowns (10).

This will be a closer game than most expect. But the Packers have Rodgers, who is still one of the game’s top players despite his struggles this season.

Prediction: Packers 20, Cardinals 13