Zielinski III: Packers will take Patriots to the limit

By DAN ZIELINSKI III
The Green Bay Packers and New England Patriots enter Week 9 with identical 5-3 records, setting up an intriguing matchup between two teams looking to strengthen their playoff positioning.
The Packers have been one of the league’s hottest teams, with Jordan Love playing some of the best football of his career. However, Green Bay’s inconsistent running game remains a concern. If the Packers can’t establish balance offensively, it could be difficult against a healthy Patriots secondary that can challenge Love through the air.
Facing Drake Maye and the Patriots on the road presents another difficult challenge. Maye has continued to develop into one of the league’s more dangerous young quarterbacks. His ability to extend plays, make throws under pressure and use his legs could create problems for a Packers defense that has exceeded expectations this season.
New England also gets a boost from a healthy secondary, giving Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis chances to make life difficult for Love. If the Patriots can generate a few key stops and capitalize on opportunities offensively, they have a good chance to pull off the victory.
Expect a competitive game that comes down to the final possession. Green Bay has the offensive firepower to win, but playing at Gillette Stadium gives New England a slight advantage.
WHAT THE ODDSMAKERS ARE SAYING: Patriots are favored by 3 points.
WHAT DZ IS SAYING: Patriots 28, Packers 27.