Zielinski: Packers’ struggles will continue

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Packers (2-3) and Broncos (1-5) have lost two straight games and are trying to avoid a three-game losing streak on Sunday. It hasn’t been an ideal start for either team, and Sunday could be a time to right the ship.

The Broncos are a mess under new coach Sean Payton, who had high expectations entering this season after his offseason comments regarding his coaching ability. They are at risk of opening the season 0-4 at home, which has never happened before.

The Packers are coming off a bye week after an embarrassing performance against the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football. Quarterback Jordan Love has flashed potential but has yet to put it together week after week.

Love needs all his top-skill players around him, which has yet to occur this season, with top running back Aaron Jones and No. 1 receiver Christian Watson tallying just 23 total touches during the first five games. Coach Matt LaFleur also needs to call a better game as his inefficiencies as a play-caller have been highlighted this season without a Hall of Fame quarterback.

This is a toss-up game. The Broncos have flashed potential offensively but boast a suspect defense. The Packers have played better this season but also feature plenty of flaws. It wouldn’t surprise me if either team wins, but I have to take the Broncos in a close one.

Prediction: Broncos 23, Packers 20