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5 Things To Look For Before Hall-of-Fame Game

By Eric Robinson

Nov 8, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) throws a pass against the Denver Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 8, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) throws a pass against the Denver Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 31, 2016; Green Bay,WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tackle Bryan Bulaga (75) blocks outside linebacker Kyler Fackrell (51) during the team
Jul 31, 2016; Green Bay,WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tackle Bryan Bulaga (75) blocks outside linebacker Kyler Fackrell (51) during the team /

Factor #4: Packers defensive rookies

A middle of the pack defensive unit in Green Bay needed some reinforcements this offseason, in particularly in the front seven. Rookie defensive tackle Kenny Clark was the team’s first round draft pick out of UCLA, and the 314 pound bowling ball is a much-needed injection of athleticism at the nose tackle spot. He is expected to see plenty of snaps this season and that will start during the HOF contest.

The team also drafted linebackers Kyler Fackrell and Blake Martinez in the third and fourth rounds respectively, with both having a key role in the defense’s rotation this season. Fackrell will be groomed to be a useful pass rusher as 2012 first rounder Nick Perry has only totaled 12.5 sacks in four seasons of work. Fackrell will be vital as the team will also look to take some the load off 36-year-old Julius Peppers at the outside linebacker spot.

Defensive coordinator Dom Capers experimented with having Clay Matthews at inside linebacker the past couple of seasons but Matthews will be moved back to his normal spot on the outside and Martinez will be inserted to provide depth behind starters Jake Ryan and Sam Barrington.

Next: Factor #5

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