Zielinski: Packers positioned for much-needed bounce-back win

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Green Bay Packers enter Week 11 reeling from back-to-back losses, struggling to find consistency on offense. Sunday’s trip to MetLife Stadium to face the New York Giants presents what could be a prime “get right” opportunity, but nothing is guaranteed when it comes to Green Bay.

The Giants, mired in a 2-8 season, fired head coach Brian Daboll and will start Jameis Winston at quarterback. Injuries have decimated New York’s roster: Jaxson Dart, rookie running back Cam Skattebo, Pro Bowl receiver Malik Nabers, and kicker Graham Gano are all out, while key contributors Darius Slayton, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Bobby Okereke, and Tyler Nubin haven’t practiced all week. This creates openings for a Packers team desperate to regain its footing.

Green Bay should lean on its run game, exploiting the Giants’ 31st-ranked run defense, with Josh Jacobs and the offensive line expected to dominate the trenches. The Packers’ defense is poised to generate takeaways against Winston, who has a history of erratic play. Analysts expect a controlled, methodical game plan, allowing Green Bay to win comfortably if the offense executes.

Still, questions linger about consistency. Can Matt LaFleur’s team rebound from recent struggles and finally put together a solid offensive showing? If so, the Packers could leave New York with a morale-boosting victory to kick off a pivotal stretch of the season.

WHAT THE ODDSMAKERS ARE SAYING: Packers are favored by 7 points.

DZ’S PREDICTION: Packers 24, Giants 17