The Green Bay Packers opened up the 2015 preseason with a win over the New England Patriots, doubling their opponent’s score for a 22-11 victory. Here are a few players that stood out, for good or ill.
The Good: Quinten Rollins, CB
Rookie cornerback Quinten Rollins had a nice debut. He is credited with two passes defensed, though your author seems to recall three, and was in good position on a number of other passes his way. Rollins added four tackles to his solid performance.
The Bad: Run Defense
Last season, teams could easily run on Green Bay for the first half of the year, and the defense was highlighted by poor play in the middle. Clay Matthews had to move inside part time to assist in the running game. If last night is any indication, that may still be the case. The defense gave up a 55-yard running touchdown for the Patriot’s first score, and allowed 5.2 yards per carry to New England.
The Ugly: David Bakhtiari
The first team offense played the first quarter for the Packers, and Aaron Rodgers was sacked twice. On each occasion left tackle David Bakhtiari was simply beat. Bakhtiari played solid football in his rookie season, especially for a fourth round pick at an important position, and improved last season to right around a league-average left tackle. Overall in 2014, the Packers offensive line played quite well. Keeping that level of play high, especially at the left tackle position, will be vital if the Packers hope to make it one game further than a year ago.