Packers (7-2) at Colts (6-3)
Sunday, 4:25 ET, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis TV: Fox
Danny Sheridan’s line: Colts by 2 1⁄
2
Colts’ keys to victory: When QB Philip Rivers has protection, he can still produce against tough defenses. The Packers are suspect against the run, so getting the run game going will be ideal. This could be the chance to get rookie RB Jonathan Taylor going. The Colts also need rookie WR Michael Pittman Jr. to continue his ascension after a career game with 101 receiving yards in Week 10. Defensively, interior defenders DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart must contain Packers RB Aaron Jones while forcing QB Aaron Rodgers to look to his other receivers.
Packers’ keys to victory: Rodgers has to stay efficient against a defense that has smothered opposing offenses. Winning the turnover game will be huge. Feeding WR Davante Adams in the passing game will provide a spark, while TE Robert Tonyan needs to make his presence known in the middle of the field. DT Kenny Clark must plug the run game and make the Indy offense one-dimensional. CB Jaire Alexander will be tasked in limiting Pittman.
Matchup to watch: Packers DE Za’Darius Smith vs. Colts LT Anthony Castonzo. The Indianapolis offense is predicated on protecting the quarterback, while Smith is a menace in creating pressure. Castonzo has been solid on the blind side, and Smith is the best pass rusher for Green Bay.
Who wins? The Packers’ success is in large part due to their offense, while the Colts’ is due to their defense. The Packers get the job done on the road thanks to their high-flying offense keeping Indy’s pass rush at bay.
Packers 28-24