Zielinski: Packers will meet the challenge

By DAN ZIELINSKI III
The Green Bay Packers will look to rebound from a disastrous fourth quarter in Week 1 when they travel to MetLife Stadium to face the New York Jets today.

The Packers enter the matchup in unfamiliar territory. Green Bay has lost six straight games dating to last season, its longest losing streak since before Brett Favre arrived in Green Bay. An 0-2 start also would be unusual for the Packers, who have avoided opening a season with two consecutive losses since 2006.

Green Bay let a winnable game slip away last week against the Minnesota Vikings. The Packers struggled to finish in the fourth quarter, with a failed fourth-and-1, costly penalties and turnovers contributing to the collapse. Despite the loss, Jordan Love played well and connected on several explosive passes downfield.

The Packers will need better protection against the Jets, especially with Josh Jacobs unavailable to help balance the offense. Green Bay ranked last in the NFL in pass block win rate in Week 1, putting additional pressure on Love to make plays.

Defensively, the Packers also have plenty to clean up. The front struggled to consistently generate pressure, and playing without Micah Parsons makes it even more difficult for Green Bay to create pressure without relying on extra rushers.

The Jets, meanwhile, looked like an improved team in their season-opening victory over the Tennessee Titans. New York added significant talent during the offseason and showed the potential to be a difficult matchup.

Still, I expect the Packers to respond after letting Week 1 slip away. Green Bay should make enough plays late to avoid an 0-2 start and escape New Jersey with a close victory.
WHAT THE ODDSMAKERS ARE SAYING: Packers favored by 3 points.
WHAT DZ IS SAYING: Packers 20, Jets 17.