I have not been shy about my criticism of Dom Capers and his defense over the past few years. Weak pressure on opposing quarterback, blown coverages by the secondary, lack of coverage in the middle of the field, inconsistent tackling and an inability to get opportune stops are some of the main criticisms I have leveled at his defense over the past few years. It is incredibly early to be making any long term proclamations, but the performance against the Seahawks was something to be proud of.
Mike Daniels and Nick Perry were attached to Russel Wilson at the hip. The Seahawks' offensive line is widely considered a weak point of the team, but even if that is true then the defensive front did exactly what you would want them to do. They were stout against the run, excepting one 30 yard run later in the game. Eddie Lacy did nothing. The cascade effect from there was apparent. With pressure up front, the secondary had more margin for error. They were up to the task in front of them. The defense was literally and figuratively on the front foot the entire day, while Seattle was on the back foot.
The Packers offense left much to be desired, but it is hard to tell how much is due to their failings and how much is due to the performance of Seattle's defense, which looks to be the best it has been since their championship year. They were moving the ball before Rodgers' early interception on a play that has been dissected much for the flags thrown during the return. The first half closed with the offense having put no points on the board. With the defense allowing only 3 points, they were doing the work of keeping the game in hand.
The offense, while not spectacular, was much improved in the second half. Again though, they were aided by the defense forcing a turnover deep in Seattle's territory which led to a quick score. Rodgers also found Jordy Nelson for a score on a free play, one of the several times he caught Seattle being slow on their defensive substitutions. The throw was vintage Rodgers, hitting Jordy in stride over / around two defenders who had decent, but not great coverage on him.
The signs of a high ceiling for this team are evident. One game is not nearly enough of a sample size to base much of a prediction on, but good signs in that first game are certainly better than the alternative. If they repeat this defensive performance next week, then we could be in line for something special this season. Time will tell.
