Geno Smith (7) are looking to move to 2-0 on the young season. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)
New York Jets (1-0) at Green Bay Packers (0-1)
Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET, at Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisc. – TV: FOX
*TV announcers: Greg Gumbel, Trent Green, Evan Washburn
*Keys to the game: The Packers want to back Geno Smith into long passing downs and see how the second-year quarterback handles decision-making under pressure. But in order to see that scenario play out, Green Bay will have to corral the Jets’ ground game. Easier said than done with RBs Chris Johnson and Chris Ivory the heart of the game plan, Smith able to extend plays with his feed and Green Bay coming off an opener in which it allowed 207 rushing yards on 5.6 yards per carry in Seattle.
The Packers are confident RB Eddie Lacy will clear the concussion protocol in time, and need to stay committed to the ground game because their offensive line will not hold up long in protection against the Jets’ stout front seven. QB Aaron Rodgers struggled to drive the ball down field in Seattle, and the Jets will similarly try to contain the run, allow short completions and then feast on third down.
*Matchup to watch — Jets DE Muhammad Wilkerson vs. Packers RT Bryan Bulaga: Bulaga practiced midweek and should play following a sprained MCL in Seattle. The Packers are holding their breath, because backup Derek Sherrod was a turnstile in his stead, getting beat badly for two sacks.
*Player spotlight — Packers ILB Jamari Lattimore: The fourth-year player may start in place of Brad Jones next to A.J. Hawk. Jones has been struggling with a quad injury, and was guilty of multiple missed tackles and a pair of holding penalties in Seattle.
*Fast facts: The Jets held Rodgers to a 44 percent completion rate in 2010, the lowest mark of his career as a starter. … The Jets and Patriots are the only two NFL teams Rodgers has yet to throw a touchdown against. … The Packers have won six of their past seven home openers.
WHO WILL WIN AND WHY
The Packers mask their defensive frailties — and calls for coordinator Dom Capers’ job — for at least a week with Rodgers relying on short drops and quickly firing against the Jets’ outmanned secondary.
*Our pick: Packers 27-24
