How Green Bay’s defense plans to cool down one of the NFL’s hottest quarterbacks.

As the Green Bay Packers prepare to take on the Detroit Lions, all eyes are on one crucial matchup: the Packers’ pass rush versus Jared Goff’s remarkable passing game. Goff, who’s been on a historic tear, has not only been one of the hottest quarterbacks this season but is playing behind one of the league’s strongest offensive lines. For Green Bay, finding a way to disrupt his rhythm may be their best hope of success.

Can the Packers’ Pass Rush Stay Consistent?

On paper, Green Bay’s pass rush looks strong, ranking eighth in sacks and 13th in sack percentage. However, the stats reveal a streaky performance. Out of their 21 sacks, a large chunk came from just two games, with limited success elsewhere. Their inconsistency showed last week against Jacksonville, where they managed only one sack despite leading for most of the game. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley emphasized the need for a stronger, more consistent pass rush, especially against a player like Goff, who capitalizes on even the smallest opening.

The challenge is significant. Goff’s numbers speak for themselves: he leads the NFL in completion percentage and yards per attempt and ranks second in passer rating. He’s not just efficient; he’s operating at a historic level of precision. Making him uncomfortable will require Green Bay’s defensive front to bring their best performance.

The Wall of Detroit: Lions’ Elite Offensive Line

Detroit boasts one of the best offensive lines in the league, anchored by star right tackle Penei Sewell and supported by seasoned veterans across every position. This line has consistently given Goff the time he needs to make plays, ranking fifth in pass-block win rate according to ESPN. In contrast, Green Bay’s pass-rush win rate ranks a dismal 30th, underscoring the difficulty they’ll face in penetrating Detroit’s protection.

Rashan Gary, Green Bay’s top pass rusher, will be a key player to watch. Typically rushing from the left, Gary will likely go head-to-head with Sewell, who has allowed just one sack in his last 36 games. However, the left side of Detroit’s line could present a slight opening, with left tackle Taylor Decker and guard Graham Glasgow showing occasional vulnerability. Hafley noted that Detroit’s line may be the best they’ve faced this season, further highlighting the uphill battle Green Bay faces.

Pressuring Goff: A Tall Order with Big Rewards

If there’s one weakness the Packers can exploit, it’s that Goff has shown a tendency to fumble under pressure, with four in his last two games. The Lions’ offensive line has given up more sacks in recent weeks, and Goff’s completion and efficiency rates dip slightly under pressure. Capitalizing on this will be critical if the Packers hope to contain Detroit’s top-ranked scoring offense.

Green Bay’s defensive reputation is on the line, and Lions coach Dan Campbell knows it. “This is a damn good defense,” he said, acknowledging the skill level of players like Kenny Clark, Quay Walker, and Jaire Alexander. The Packers will need each of these defensive stars to be at their best, as Green Bay aims to prove their defensive capability against one of the most potent offenses in the league.

A Defining Game for Green Bay’s Defense

For the Packers, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Green Bay’s ability to put pressure on Goff could make or break this pivotal NFC matchup. If they can disrupt his timing and force him into mistakes, they’ll have a shot at slowing down Detroit’s explosive offense. But if Goff is allowed the time and space to operate, the Packers may be in for a long afternoon.

Sunday’s game will test Green Bay’s pass rush in ways it hasn’t been tested this season. If the Packers can rise to the occasion, they’ll solidify their status as a legitimate defensive threat. If not, they risk being overwhelmed by Goff and the Lions, who show no signs of slowing down.