Week One of the NFL season is always a fascinating time for fans; opening week is when the gloves come off the offensive and defensive game plans, and new additions are truly allowed to start making their mark. In the case of the Green Bay Packers, personnel changes on defense should have their fans excited to see what can happen on that side of the ball, as Julius Peppers and company get to make their 2014 debut against a talented Seattle Seahawks offense.
With Thursday's game in mind, we look around the roster in today's curds at a number of different players whose performances will likely have a major impact on the end result. Enjoy!
Packers’ new-look pass rush set to make debut | Packers.com
Packers fans should be excited to see what Dom Capers has in store when he opens up the full capabilities of his new personnel groupings on Thursday.
Richard Sherman still central to Seahawks' swagger | JSOnline
Since Sherman plays almost entirely on the left side of the defense, it's possible that the Packers may choose to match up Jarrett Boykin on him to maximize Jordy Nelson's opportunities against other corners.
Sign language | ESPN Wisconsin
This is a great piece on the Packers' no-huddle offense - expect it to be in use early and often in Seattle to combat the crowd noise, because it primarily works on hand signals instead of verbal communication.
Will Packers really use Randall Cobb on returns? - ESPN
It certainly appears so, and special teams coach Shawn Slocum is intending to use Cobb. The Seahawks use star players as returners as well, with Percy Harvin taking kickoffs and safety Earl Thomas on punts.
Packers ready to roll with Guion at nose tackle | Packersnews.com
Athleticism is the new buzzword for the Packers' defensive line, as they plan to be quicker instead of massive in order to stop the run.
J.J. Watt, Texans agree on 6-year $100 million extension - SBNation.com
That's a lot of money for any NFL player, let alone someone who doesn't play quarterback, but if any defensive lineman deserves that kind of cash, it's the former Wisconsin Badger.