We Got A Defense: Packers start 1-0

In the first game of the NFL’s 100th season the Packers prevail over the Bears 10-3 in a rusty defensive battle.

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As the National Football League kicked off their 100th season the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears met for the 199th time. This longtime rivalry usually suggests excitement, however, after last night’s showing from both teams, it’s debatable whether or not either could be a playoff contender this year. 

Sep 5, 2019; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) prepares to throw the ball against the Green Bay Packers during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dan Powers/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY Sports

In the first quarter the Packers had a total of -12 yards. This new and 'what to look for' offense started off in the NEGATIVE. Out of five passes, Aaron Rodgers was only able to complete TWO against the Chicago defense.

Eventually, Rodgers and the Packers were able to notch a touchdown. TE Jimmy Graham caught an 8-yard TD early in the 2nd after Michael Valdes-Scantling caught an 47-yard pass to put Green Bay in the red-zone. The games intensity grew after Bears' kicker Eddy Pineiro was put to the test on a 38 yard field goal and made the score 7-3. However, following that, the game went back to a tight defensive battle (hence the low final score).

Sep 5, 2019; Chicago, IL, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Jimmy Graham (80) celebrates after making a touchdown past in front of Chicago Bears defensive back Deon Bush (26) during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

With 1:30 left in the game it had almost seemed like the Bears would score a touchdown. The final moments were actually my personal favorite of the game. Time was ticking, Chicago had time for one last run, and they relied on the arm of Mitchell Trubisky. With all this, a 20-yard Long pass with 1:58 to go was caught by former Bear, Adrian Amos. Game. Over.

So, some final takeaways from last night's game:

1. If neither team steps up their offense, then both will be struggling to earn a playoff position

2. This was labeled as an upset (per the NBC sportscasters)

3. Penalties caused a lot of trouble for the Bears

4. Matt LaFleur built a dominant defense during the off-season and earned his first W as head coach of the Green Bay Packers

This game is not at all what was expected to start off the centennial season. A big rivalry, two teams with playoff potential, and a 10-3 final score. Hopefully, the rust will quickly wear off and the entertainment will pick up. All in all, a win is a win and Green Bay captured it in Chicago.

VIDEO:

Larry Brown Jr. from www.larryjrnfl.com talks briefly about the #NFL Kickoff game between the Green Bay Packers & Chicago Bears.