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Aaron Rodgers – In his only career start in the Metrodome, Mall of America Field, whatever it they call it these days, the Packers offense was held to under 200 yards of total offense as the receivers struggled to get open and the pass protection collapsed. In 2009, the pass protection is weak again as they lead the league in sacks allowed with 12, and starting LT Chad Clifton is probably out with a foot injury. The only bright spot is that while the Vikings defense has looked good so far in 2009, they’ve done it against some of the most offensively challenged teams in the NFL (Browns, Lions and 49ers) and the Niners lost Frank Gore about two minutes into the game. He’s a great fantasy player, but there might be a better matchup available on your bench.
Fantasy Scouting Report: Green Bay Packers
Ryan Grant - 49ers RB Glen Coffee had a miserable day against the Vikings run defense last week, and the Packers run offense has been inconsistent. To make matters worse (for Grant owners) two short-yardage TDs last week against the Rams went to FB John Kuhn. This looks like a good week to bench Grant and find your Plan B.
Greg Jennings – If the Packers offense does any damage on Monday night, it’s going to be through the air. Jennings has three catches of 50 yards this season, and remains the Packers top deep threat. The Vikings pass defense has surrendered some big passing plays this season; TE Vernon Davis had a career game against them last week. Not his best matchup, but the potential for a big game is there.
Donald Driver – With the exception of a couple drops/missed passes in week 1, he’s been one of the best in the league. His season could be even better, but Rodgers has missed him on two sure TD passes already this season. The presence of Jennings, and the fact that Rodgers does a good job throwing to different receivers, means that teams can’t focus on shutting down Driver, and he’s gotten a lot of single coverage. He should be starting until further notice.
Packers D – High risk/high reward pick this week. RB Adrian Peterson has ran all over them in two Metrodome starts, but last season they picked off QB Gus Frerotte 3 times, including one pick-six. Their pass rush has been blah so far, but the Vikings pass protection has been one of the worst in the league. Favre has been playing it safe so far this season, but who knows if his blood is up for revenge and the Gunslinger decides to take some chances against an opportunistic Packers secondary. My current recommendation is to start whatever defense is playing against the Browns (it’s the Bengals this week), but the Packers do have the potential for a big week too.
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