The Green Bay Packers are facing a quick turnaround this week as they prepare to host the Miami Dolphins on Thanksgiving evening.
Miami begins a three-game winning streak, averaging over 30 points per game during that time. With stars like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and rookie sensation Devon Achane around a healthy Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins have one of the most versatile offenses in the NFL.
Meanwhile, the Packers have completely beaten the San Francisco 49ers but are still in third place in the NFC North. They have no choice but to keep winning if they want to reach the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions.
As for the Dolphins' playoff chances, they are still in the hunt for their current eighth spot. A prime-time win on a short week could spark a late postseason push. Green Bay will try to make sure that doesn't happen and should be successful if they emerge victorious in these three important matchups.
Packers LT Rasheed Walker vs. Dolphins beat Chop Robinson
Miami's pass rush was among the league's worst in 2024, but they could have something special with Robinson. The first-round pick from Penn State was one of the most productive defensive rookies this season and had a dominant performance against the New England Patriots. In last week's 34-15 win, Robinson recorded 10 pressures and 1.5 sacks, his season high. Despite putting most of the pressure on the team, Walker has been extremely reliable of late. He has only allowed four pressures in the last four games and hasn't given up a single sack. Hopefully Walker can continue to hold down the left spot and face an exciting rookie in Week 13.
Packers CBs vs. Dolphins WRs Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle
The last time the Packers faced the Dolphins, Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle torched Green Bay for 246 receiving yards and a touchdown. Back then, the Packers had Jaire Alexander and Rasul Douglas anchoring their secondary. This time around, Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine will take over the responsibilities, with Alexander likely out for another game due to injury and Douglas now traded to Buffalo. Nixon has adapted well to his midseason move to outside corner, but keeping Miami's dynamic duo in check will be his toughest task yet. Valentine, who made his first start of the season last week, also needs to step on a big stage. Green Bay might be smart to add help at safety since Hill and Waddle have the speed to take over the game.
Packers TE Tucker Kraft vs. Dolphins LB Jordyn Brooks
Miami's pass defense has been good overall this season, but the Packers may be able to exploit one of their weaknesses. The Dolphins have allowed opposing tight ends more than 100 yards in back-to-back games with little resistance from Brooks. According to Pro Football Focus, he is a top 10 linebacker in both receptions and yards allowed. In Week 11, rookie Brock Bowers caught all six of his targets against Brooks' coverage for a total of 57 yards. That bodes well for Kraft, whose role in Green Bay's offense has increased dramatically in 2024. He is third on the team with 402 receiving yards and first with six receiving touchdowns, which ranks second among all tight ends. Given Miami's vulnerability when it comes to covering tight ends, Kraft could be in for a big day.
