In a meaningless preseason game, Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur tested his new starting quarterback, Jordan Love.
On Friday night, LaFleur used the Packers’ starting offense for two series against the Cincinnati Bengals. This was a major alteration to preseason games. Aaron Jones caught a Love pass for 6 yards on this neon-lit football field. After that, AJ Dillon seamlessly replaced Jones, and the Packers’ star running back was visibly absent.
The Packers’ defense lacked David Bakhtiari, Jaire Alexander, and Kenny Clark. Even yet, most of the Packers’ defensive players stood out during a fast three-and-out series against a Bengals offense suffering without injured quarterback Joe Burrow.
After two runs, LaFleur sensibly replaced his offensive starters, including Love. After briefly appearing in the third drive, Elgton Jenkins slowed down and returned to the bench.
In their preseason opener, the Packers won 36–19. This win is a great way to start a new era with a growing star. LaFleur used these early-game images to understand his club before the first regular season game in Chicago.
The Friday night meeting’s biggest lessons: Jordan Love resembled his preseason play in his 12 shots. Love’s timing, especially on short and intermediate routes, was impeccable. His deep balls were still being determined. Love had a passer rating of 112.9, 46 yards, one touchdown, and a 7-of-10 completion rate. The night’s highlight was a 9-yard touchdown pass to Romeo Doubs.
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Love’s lengthy passes remained in doubt. After his only pass downfield, a tempting pass to Christian Watson in the left corner, this question persisted. Watson created space on the go route, but Love’s pass was too high, allowing safety Dax Hill to follow up and break the aerial fly. Love’s first practice game was well-received, but he still has a long way to go to become a polished player before the offseason ends.
Sean Clifford was the most intriguing performer. Clifford told a fascinating story on the field despite being drafted in the fifth round. Clifford played many roles. Rookie genius and rookie blunders were mixed. 20-of-26 completions yielded 208 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. This was a good example of a rookie player learning the NFL. Clifford displayed natural arm skill. He also ran 27 yards.
Keisean Nixon demonstrated his value beyond kickoffs. After being an All-Pro kickoff returner, Nixon is a good Packers secondary player. Nixon fought to be the starting nickel cornerback. Nixon demonstrated his importance by sacking Bengals quarterback Jake Browning and then making a crucial pass defense. His speed and talent benefit from coverage, run defense, and tactical blitzes.
The team’s rookie stars included cornerback Carrington Valentine. Valentine started over Jaire Alexander and performed effectively. His steady coverage prevented aerial threats and diverted a pass down the left corner. Because of his football skills, he got an interception. Valentine’s smarts and skill allow him to change the Packers’ defense.
Anders Carlson’s first training game showed promise, although he needed to be more accurate. Carlson scored three extra points and a 45-yard field goal. Still, two missed right-wing extra points destroyed his final game. Carlson must improve his promise-consistency gap. The Packers’ smart choice saves money. They chose a newbie over a veteran.
The Green Bay Packers began their season-long story in this preseason opener. As the performances unfold, potential, ambition, and growth shape new hopes. The Packers pursue greatness in an ever-changing environment after their successes and lessons
