The Packers opened the preseason with a come-from-behind 13-9 victory over Pittsburgh. After spotting the Steelers an early 9-0 lead, Green Bay, led by backup quarterback Aaron Rodgers, scored the game’s final 13 points. The following is a look back at the highs, the lows and some of what happened in between:
THE GOOD: The Steelers were without three regulars on their offensive line, but you still had to be impressed by the play of Green Bay’s front four. As expected, this unit was relentless in getting after the quarterback. And that’s a big reason why the No. 1 defense – even without star cornerbacks Al Harris and Charles Woodson – was able to keep Pittsburgh’s starting offense from scoring any points.
THE BAD: Sure it was only the first preseason game, but there’s no excuse for a starting offense to gain only 12 yards in 12 plays. Heck, a good high school team might be able to do better. The line was OK, but none of the receivers were able to get open against tight coverage. And while it’s too soon to panic, there’s no question that the biggest fear of every fan was realized on Saturday night.
THE REST: The tight ends had a tough game. Donald Lee’s run blocking was inconsistent and he struggled to get separation as a receiver. Bubba Franks dropped a perfectly thrown pass and neither Zac Alcorn nor Clark Harris looked ready to play at this level….. The second-string offensive line did a decent job in pass protection. That’s a big reason why Rodgers had such a productive night. In the previous two preseasons, the ex-Cal star seldom had enough time to set his feet and find an open receiver….. Cornerback Will Blackmon didn’t put up big numbers as a returner, but he had very little room to maneuver. If things don’t start to improve, look at the schemes and not the personnel. Unlike the previous few seasons, the talent is more than good enough. Special teams coordinator Mike Stock, on the other hand, may not be.
WHAT WE LEARNED: The depth on this team is better than it’s been in years. That’s why the Packers were able to outscore the Steelers 13-3 in the final three quarters. Conversely, a lack of quality depth was a big reason why Green Bay had won only four of its previous 12 preseason games. In August, the deeper team usually comes out on top.
