Packers poised to bounce back

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Packers lost focus late against the Falcons, blowing a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter to lose by one point in their second game of the season. It was a frustrating defeat that consisted of questionable play calling and a lackluster defensive showing.

Today, the Packers (1-1) will try to put it all together against a well-balanced Saints (1-1) team at Lambeau Field.

The home opener is a notable opportunity for the Packers’ offense. They struggled in the fourth quarter against the Falcons and square off against a veteran, well-coached Saints’ defense that hasn’t allowed more than 20 points in a contest since Week 9 of last season. They are an aggressive and physical unit that forces mistakes.

Can quarterback Jordan Love continue to perform well in big spots? Will the Packers’ offensive line hold up against a physical front? Who steps up if receiver Christian Watson and/or running back Aaron Jones are inactive? Can coach Matt LaFleur avoid in-game mistakes?

The answers will determine if the Packers are victorious today.

The Packers’ defense also will have to perform well against a veteran Saints’ offense. The run defense struggled against the Falcons’ talented two-headed rushing attack last week. The Packers must perform better against a less talented rushing attack, which is without its top two options. They also need to pressure QB Derek Carr and force him to make quick decisions and hope he makes mistakes.

Today’s game is the Packers’ biggest challenge yet this season. The Saints have a playoff-level roster and plenty of pieces to disrupt the Packers. It might not be a pretty game, but the Packers have the talent and ability to sneak away with a victory.

Prediction: Packers 20, Saints 17