Aaron Rodgers’ injury forces Packers, Cowboys to adjust gameplans
Green Bay and Dallas are both preparing for how to play with a hobbled Rodgers under center.
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has missed practice this week while dealing with a slightly torn calf muscle. Rodgers still expects to play in the NFC Divisional playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys, but he admits he's still trying to improve as much as possible before having to suit up, per Davis Helman of the official Dallas Cowboys site.
"I’m improving. Just trying to get it to a better place every day," Rodgers said Wednesday. "I spend a lot of time with the trainers, a lot of rehab. Just trying to continue to improve every day and see about practice reps every morning."
As for the Cowboys defense, they’re still prepared for Rodgers’ best despite the injury. Rodgers is a definite MVP candidate after a season in which he threw for over 4,300 yards, 38 touchdowns and only five interceptions. Defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli is expecting a full-tilt effort from Rodgers on Sunday afternoon at Lambeau Field.
“I mean he’s terrific in the pocket, but when he gets out of the pocket -- and we’re preparing for that, believe me -- he is off the charts,” Marinelli said. “He’s got a great feel, his vision is down field, I’ve been around where you’ve got guys zeroing in on him and, man, he’s tough.”
Rodgers is not much of a runner in the way of Colin Kaepernick or Russell Wilson, but is one of the premiere quarterbacks in terms of extending the play. With a calf that temporarily forced him out of the Week 17 showdown against the Detroit Lions, Rodgers could have a tougher time avoiding the Cowboys defensive front.
Green Bay vs. Dallas
Green Bay is also going to have to adjust their protection scheme given Rodgers' injury, and the Packers say they're ready for a bevy of blitzes. Considering Rodgers' limitations, Green Bay expects to see ample pressure in an attempt to notch some sacks and force the ball out quickly. Packers guard T.J. Lang is ready and waiting, per Kevin Patra of NFL.com.
“The way we’ve shown we can block a four-man rush, I don’t know why you wouldn’t try to bring a little bit more on him,” Lang said. “But with him it’s kind of pick your poison.”
The Packers and Cowboys kick off at 1:05 p.m. ET on Sunday.
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