Thursday, November 28, 2024

Packers vs. Dolphins sections: 3 key matchups to watch in Week 13

The Green Bay Packers are in for a quick turnaround this week as they prepare to host the Miami Dolphins on Thanksgiving night.

Miami is starting a three-game winning streak, averaging over 30 points per game during that span. With stars like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and rookie Devon Achane surrounding a vigorous Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins boast one of the most versatile offenses in the NFL.

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Meanwhile, the Packers are beating the San Francisco 49ers but are still in third place in the NFC North. They have no choice but to keep winning if they want to catch up with the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions.

As for the Dolphins’ playoff chances, they are still interested in finishing eighth in the standings. A primetime win in a miniature week could spark a late-season offense. Green Bay will make every effort to make sure that doesn’t happen and should be successful if they win these three key matchups.

Packers LT Rasheed Walker vs. Dolphins win over Chop Robinson

Miami’s pass rush was one of the worst in the league in 2024, but Robinson may have something special. Penn State’s first-round pick has been one of the most productive defensive rookies this season and is coming off a dominant performance against the New England Patriots. Robinson recorded a season-high ten pressures and 1.5 sacks in last week’s 34-15 victory. Despite Walker putting the most pressure on the team, he has been extremely reliable lately. In the previous four games, he allowed just four pressures and didn’t give up a single sack. Let’s hope Walker can continue to hold down the left tackle spot against the thrilling rookie in Week 13.

Packers CBs vs. Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle

The last time the Packers faced the Dolphins, Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle torched Green Bay for 246 yards and a touchdown. Back then, the Packers had Jaire Alexander and Rasul Douglas as secondary players. Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine will take responsibility this time, Alexander will likely miss another game due to injury, and Douglas has now been traded to Buffalo. Nixon has adapted well to his mid-season move to outside cornerback, but containing Miami’s vigorous duo will be his toughest task yet. Valentine, who made his first start of the season last week, will also have to step up to the gigantic stage. Green Bay may be wise to provide safety lend a hand because Hill and Waddle have the speed to take control of the game.

Packers TE Tucker Kraft vs. Dolphins LB Jordyn Brooks

Miami’s pass defense has been good overall this season, but the Packers may be able to exploit one of their weaknesses. In the next two games, the Dolphins allowed opponents over 100 yards rushing with little resistance from Brooks. He ranks among the top 10 linebackers in both receptions and yards allowed, according to Pro Football Focus. In Week 11, rookie Brock Bowers completed all six targets against Brooks for a total of 57 yards. This is a good sign for Kraft, who has dramatically increased his role in Green Bay’s offense in 2024. He is third on the team with 402 yards and first with six touchdowns, good for second among all tight ends. Given Miami’s weakness when it comes to meeting tough targets, Kraft could be primed for a gigantic day.

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