Zielinski: Packers will pass another test with flying colors

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Green Bay Packers are off to somewhat of a surprising 3-0 start this season. The undefeated start is mostly due to their explosive offense that leads the NFL in multiple categories.

On Monday, the Packers hope to continue their strong start to the season against the Atlanta Falcons (0-3), who have surrendered two late leads this season.

The Packers lead in the NFL in points per game (40.7) and yards per play (6.9) and are second in yards per contest (459.7). Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is a big reason why the offense is clicking on all cylinders. He looks motivated and is playing at an MVP level.

Rodgers has passed for 887 yards, nine touchdowns, and zero interceptions this season. He has completed 67 percent of his passes, which is his highest mark since 2012. The offensive line also has protected Rodgers, as opposing teams have sacked Rodgers just twice this season.

The Packers will face a favorable opponent in the Falcons, whose defense ranks 31st in yards allowed (463.3) this season. The dreadful pass defense will benefit the Packers, even with No. 1 receiver Davante Adams banged up and No. 2 receiver Allen Lazard out indefinitely.

The Packers’ defense has played with a bend but don’t break attitude this season. It hasn’t always looked pretty, especially their pass defense, but it has stepped up when it’s needed a stop.

As long as the Packers’ defense contains the Falcons passing game, which features two of the game’s best receivers in Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley, the Packers should enter the bye week undefeated.

Prediction: Packers 34, Falcons 27

Season Prediction Record: 1-2