The Green Bay Packers defense will face a difficult task this weekend in slowing down Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. On Sunday, Mahomes completed 79.4% of his passes for 298 yards and two touchdowns in a 31-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders (5-7).
Kansas City scored 17 second-half points, and the Chiefs offense has historically struggled in the second half of football games. As a result, Mahomes had harsh words for the rest of the NFL, including the Green Bay Packers defense.
He told the media after the win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday:
“We kept pressing and pushing and we’re going to keep going the rest of the season.”
Tight end Travis Kelce and rookie wide receiver Rasheed Rice are two defensive players the Packers must be wary of this week. Kelce is one of the best tight ends in the NFL, and Rice is quickly becoming Mahomes’ favorite wide receiver target, which they have struggled with all season.
Rashan Gary of the Green Bay Packers will need to disrupt Patrick Mahomes in order to have a chance on Sunday night.
When facing an elite quarterback, one of the most important things to do is try to slow them down with a pass rush. Yes, the Packers’ defense did allow 332 yards and two touchdowns to Jared Goff on Thanksgiving, but they did make Goff uncomfortable.
Rashan Gary had three sacks in the game and will need to do so again against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. Kansas City lacks a strong offensive line. In addition, Green Bay scored a defensive touchdown against the Lions.
Gary is the most important defender on this team. Mahomes could throw for 300 yards and two touchdowns, but Rashan Gary will have to make those plays look difficult. They must win the line of scrimmage.
If the Kansas City Chiefs offense gets going early against the Green Bay Packers defense, Jordan Love will have to match them point for point, which will be difficult. Mahomes’ mouth can be kept quiet by placing his head on the turf.
