Despite being the reigning NFL MVP, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers can’t do it all alone. Guard T.J. Lang says everything starts with an effective run game which will relieve pressure on Rodgers.
AUDIO: Lang on how run game pressures Rodgers :16
With news that running back Cedric Benson will be sidelined for eight weeks with a Lisfranc injury to his left foot, all eyes are now on the Packers’ running backs.
Coach Mike McCarthy has confirmed that Alex Green will be the official starter, but Green, Brandon Saine, and James Starks will all see action.
AUDIO: McCarthy on which running back will start :10
Lang believes the way they’ve practiced, McCarthy has been forced to side with the passing game and not the run.
AUDIO: Lang says McCarthy pressured into passing plays :17
Fullback John Kuhn says he and the team hope to establish the run game in order to open up room for receivers to make plays.
AUDIO: Kuhn hopes for a balance in run/pass game :10
Statistics back up what Kuhn is saying.
In the Packers three losses, Rodgers attempted 116 passes, completing 66% of those throws, and averaged 6.65 yards per pass.
However, in the Packers two wins, Rodgers attempted 76 passes, completing 72% of his throws, and averaged 7.1 yards per pass.
In the two Packer wins, there was more of an emphasis placed on the running game. Benson saw more carries during the wins, averaging 4.4 yards per carry. During the three losses, Benson saw fewer run opportunities and averaged only 2.5 yards per carry.
The bottom line is the Packers need to establish more of a balance between the passing game and the running game when they take on the Houston Texans in Houston this Sunday night.