Zielinski: Packers could put it all together against Raiders

By DAN ZIELINSKI

After improving to 5-1 to start the season with a victory over the Detroit Lions, the Green Bay Packers face the Oakland Raiders at noon Sunday at Lambeau Field.

Although the Packers have the second-best winning percentage in the NFC through the first six games, they haven’t put together a complete performance. The Packers had to battle back from a 13-point deficit and needed assistance from the officials late in the game to prevail 23-22 over the Lions on Monday.

With the 3-2 Raiders coming to Green Bay, the Packers have a chance to show growth. Despite having quarterback Derek Carr and talented rookie running back Josh Jacobs, the Raiders’ offense is averaging just 20.6 points per game. Their defense also ranks in the middle of the pack, allowing 24.6 points per contest.

The Raiders have committed just six turnovers but have forced only five this season.

Slowing down Jacobs will be key for the Packers’ defense that is allowing 124.5 rushing yards per game. The Packers also have to force Carr to throw at least one interception.

The Packers have showed glimpses of being one of the top teams in the NFC. This week could be the week the Packers put a complete performance together against a mediocre opponent.

Prediction: Packers 31, Raiders 24