The Packers Could Win Without Aaron Rodgers

Green Bay Packers news | Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions: How we're picking it | Green Bay Press Gazette. It's not a big surprise, but all four writers for the Press-Gazette are expecting that the Green Bay Packers won't play their starters. But I think that could be a little deceiving.

Aaron Rodgers won't play much, and neither should Clay Matthews or Charles Woodson. Also, Tramon Williams might not play. However, the defense would have problems against Detroit's passing attack even with them. If the defense can force a couple turnovers, the Lions might have trouble scoring in potentially bad weather conditions. And the Packers defense has proven to be opportunistic this season.

Though Matt Flynn hasn't much experience, this game could be very important to his future. He might be playing for his next contract. And except for Rodgers, the entire starting offense could play. Greg Jennings, Bryan Bulaga, Randall Cobb, and James Starks weren't going to play anyway due to injuries. With depth a concern on the offensive line, and the need to get Chad Clifton some work in his first game back in a couple months, the starting lineman could play the entire game.

I'm not trying to be too optimistic. The Lions want to win this game and it's not important to the Packers overall. But I'll be watching the Packers to win this game.