It’s great to see how well the Green Bay Packers’ front seven are defending the run. Two games in, Green Bay has allowed an average of only 39 rushing yards per game. That is easily tops in the league.
But they seem to be getting a little help.
In week 1, Chris Ivory was admitted to the hospital the morning of the game. He’s the Jacksonville Jaguars’ big power back who was scheduled to start against the Packers.
In week 2, the league’s most illustrious runner, Adrian Peterson, was aided off the field early in the third quarter. He’ll be out until at least late December due to a meniscus tear in his right knee.
Now, four days before the Packers’ home opener against Detroit, the Lions just announced that Ameer Abdullah, their leading rusher (18 carries, 101 yards, 5.6 average), has been placed on injured reserve with a foot injury.
Next up for the Lions is fourth-year man Theo Riddick. On the year, he’s gone for 82 yards on 18 carries – but his specialty is receiving. He’s already gained 91 yards through the air. Last year he caught a staggering 80 passes.
Looking past the bye week, the Packers’ week 5 opponent is the New York Giants. Rashad Jennings, their workhorse running back, was seen at practice yesterday with his wrist and thumb encased in a wrap.
The curse seems to holding up well. It makes you wonder if the Packers’ rush defense is really this good or if the oppositions’ running backs mysteriously dropping like flies has played a role.