Jan 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) looks to throw the ball against the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter in the NFC Championship Game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The rematch of the NFC championship is easily the most anticipated of week 2 as the Green Bay Packers seek revenge over the Seattle Seahawks. Will they pull it off?
Injury News
Bryan Bulaga out with sprained MCL
One of the underrated pieces of good fortune the Packers enjoyed in 2014 was a largely healthy offensive line, specifically tackle Bryan Bulaga who’s had a history of health problems. Sadly that has come back to haunt them again. The starting right tackle is out for the game with a sprained MCL.
Bruce Irvin nursing a rib injury
Without Kam Chancellor on the back end, the Seahawks can’t afford any losses to their pass rush. Key rotational man Bruce Irvin is dealing with a nagging rib problem but head coach Pete Carroll insists this is something he’s played through before and expects him to be ready.
Key Matchups
James Jones vs. Cary Williams
It was a joyous return for James Jones back to Green Bay as he scored two touchdowns in the opener. The team will be depending on him to continue putting up solid production with Jordy Nelson out. His next task will be Seahawks corner Cary Williams, who was picked on somewhat by St. Louis, allowing two receptions for 36 yards.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix vs. Jimmy Graham
The Seahawks made that blockbuster trade in March to get Jimmy Graham because they wanted a better presence in the red zone. One added bonus they get out of that is he historically has played very well against Green Bay, averaging five catches and 63 yards every time he’s seen them. It will be up to the safeties to keep him from gashing them down the middle, most notably Ha Ha Clinton-Dix who is their best cover man.
Fantasy Advice
Sit: Randall Cobb
He was able to have an impact against Chicago but Randall Cobb is about to take a major step up in competition against Seattle. He held up well in the two meetings last year but is still nursing a shoulder problem and now doesn’t have Jordy Nelson on the other side drawing so much attention. Best to hold him out this week.
Start: Marshawn Lynch
Matt Forte victimized the Packers defense on opening day for 141 yards. The last time they saw Marshawn Lynch, he posted over 150. They just continue to struggle against the run. Don’t expect that to change in week 2, especially with Sam Barrington out at linebacker and Morgan Burnett still nursing his own injury.
Prediction: Packers win 27-23
The loss in St. Louis was an eye-opener for the Seahawks and it figures to get even harder. Aaron Rodgers just doesn’t lose at Lambeau Field and his Packers will be all sorts of ready for this game after what happened in January.
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