Analytics: Aaron Rodgers’ cadence, quick plays
The Falcons’ defenders must find the proper balance on defense against the Packers.
They must attack Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but they also have to remain calm and not go for his “hard cadence.”
Rodgers is skilled at pulling teams’ offenses and then taking deep shots down the field.
His other crafty move is get to the line of scrimmage quickly, and if the defense isn’t set and is switching personnel, Rodgers will adroitly run his play.
“He’s the best of the best,” Falcons defensive end Jack Crawford said. “He’s one of those quarterback that causes problems for the defensive line because he’s so quick and can make plays. He can catch you 12 man on the field. When you play him you have to take a different approach in terms of where do they like to go with plays. We’ve seen other (defensive) lines get caught.”
Rodgers had four such plays last week against Seattle.
Falcons coach Dan Quinn and defensive coordinator Marquand Manuel, who played with Rodgers, are preparing for his unique style.
“I do know that you better be on point,” Quinn said. “He challenges you at the line of scrimmage. They’re the personnel substitutions where you can get caught on. The cadence that he uses so well.”
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About the Author
Honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his "long and distinguished reporting in the field of pro football," D. Orlando Ledbetter, Esq. has covered the NFL 28 seasons. A graduate of Howard University, he's a winner of Georgia Sportswriter of the Year and three Associated Press Sports Editor awards.
