The Green Bay Packers’ Week 1 opener against the Minnesota Vikings is shaping up to be a total brawl, and one of the most underrated factors in that whole thing? How running back Chris Brooks handles defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ absolutely relentless, blitz-heavy front. Forget the carries, folks; we’re talking about blocking here, and Brooks is a certified beast when it comes to keeping the pocket clean.
Flores’ Blitz Obsession Meets LaFleur’s Protection Plan
Everyone knows Flores lives and breathes the blitz. It’s in his DNA, it’s who he is, and it’s what he’ll always want to be. But Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has always had a knack for protecting his quarterback, even against guys like Aaron Donald, Myles Garrett, or Aidan Hutchinson. His lines get tons of help, whether it’s chip blocks from tight ends, funky pre-snap spacing that messes with rushers, or running backs adding to the protection. That’s where Brooks really shines. Last year, against a stacked Detroit Lions front in Week 1, we saw him pass off a linebacker and then, get this, take on a defensive tackle on a stunt, letting Jordan Love make a huge throw downfield. A *defensive tackle*, people! That’s not normal running back stuff.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Brooks is a Wall
PFF actually graded Brooks as the fourth-best running back in the entire league for pass protection last year. Fourth-best! The dude is a seriously good blocking back. With three of Green Bay’s starting offensive linemen already on the injury report and limited in Wednesday’s practice, you can bet the Packers are going to lean heavily on Brooks’ blocking chops, especially on those obvious passing downs. His ability to stonewall rushers could be the difference against Flores’ aggressive scheme, keeping the pass rushers off Jordan Love and letting him deliver.
A Little Gamesmanship Never Hurt Anyone, Right?
And just to add another layer of spice to this Week 1 showdown, the Packers just snagged safety Kahlef Hailassie for their practice squad. This guy was literally with the Vikings for their entire training camp and got released just two days ago. Teams usually spend two weeks game planning for their first opponent, not one, because of that extra time after cutdowns. So, Hailassie probably knows a thing or two about Flores’ pass-rush plans for Green Bay. You gotta love that kind of gamesmanship. Brooks’ blocking is key, but a little inside intel sure can’t hurt either as they prepare for what’s going to be a wild opener.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Acme Packing Company.
Leave a Reply