NFL Picks: Lambeau Field Welcomes Patriots in Preseason Clash

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Week two of the NFL preseason is heating up, and fans are in for an interconference treat at the iconic Lambeau Field. The New England Patriots, hailing from the AFC, are journeying to the NFC’s home turf, facing off against the Green Bay Packers this Saturday night. Preseason games offer a glimpse into the potential NFL Odds for teams and their rosters, and this matchup promises no less. 

BUSR NFL Lines

• Spread: Patriots +3 (-110), Packers -3 (-110) 
• Moneyline: Patriots +129, Packers -158
• Total: Patriots O 37.5 (-110), Packers U 37.5 (-110) 

The Patriots started their preseason with a stumble, taking a hit in a 20-9 defeat to Houston at home. They missed the mark on covering the 3.5-point underdog spread last Thursday. Meanwhile, the Packers displayed an impressive performance, overwhelming Cincinnati with a 36-19 win on the road, effortlessly covering the 4.5-point spread from the previous Friday night. With a history of 14 preseason matches between the two teams, they stand even at seven wins each. The most recent encounter saw the Packers triumph with a 22-11 victory on August 13, 2015.

New England Patriots Seek Redemption

New England’s recent display against Houston was far from their best. Their offense struggled to find the rhythm, only managing to score in the dying minutes of the game. This left the home crowd wanting more as the Texans dominated the field. The Patriots were overshadowed 280-180 in total offense and had fewer first downs (9 against Houston’s 17). They also trailed in the time of possession, holding the ball for only 27:32 minutes compared to Houston’s 32:28.

Quarterback Bailey Zappe showed promise, completing 12 out of his 14 passes. However, with Mac Jones still sidelined and donning a visor, the quarterback situation remains a question. The team’s run game lacked the desired punch, with Pierre Strong Jr. and Kevin Harris struggling. Perhaps the signing of former Cowboy Ezekiel Elliott might infuse new energy into the Patriots’ offensive line. The receiving group, led by Tre Nixon, also seeks more consistency and better production.

Green Bay Packers Aim to Maintain Winning Streak

The Packers were in their element against the Bengals, showcasing their offensive prowess. Leading the charge was Jordan Love, the heir apparent to the Packers’ quarterback throne after Aaron Rodgers’ move to the Jets. Love’s efficient passing combined with the explosive running of Emanuel Wilson, who is fighting for a position behind Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon, added dynamism to the Packers’ gameplay.

Rookie Sean Clifford’s performance also stood out, completing 20 of his 26 passes. With young receivers like Dontayvion Wicks, Malik Heath, and second-year player Samori Toure showing promise, the Packers’ offensive unit looks well-rounded. However, kicker Anders Carlson, after missing two extra point attempts, will be under scrutiny and needs to step up his game.

What to Expect

The Patriots’ uninspiring start to the preseason is concerning for fans. Cunningham’s spark might challenge McSorley’s position, especially if the team decides on having three quarterbacks. With Jones and Zappe already holding the top two spots, this internal competition is worth watching.

The Packers, on the other hand, seem to have found their rhythm early. Their quarterbacks are performing well, and their offensive unit looks more synchronized. Playing at home, with the roaring Lambeau crowd behind them, the Packers certainly have the upper hand.

This Saturday, while Green Bay aims to cement its preseason dominance, the Patriots will be eager to recalibrate and make a statement. And with Elliott potentially making his Patriots debut, the dynamics of the game just got more intriguing.