Revamped Packer Defense is off to its Best Start in Years
By Scott Rogust
This past offseason, the Green Bay Packers set their focus on adding to the defense via free agency and the NFL Draft. Just two games into the 2019 regular season, the Packers defensive squad has been not only dominant, but historic.
After facing the Chicago Bears in Week 1 and the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Green Bay has allowed an average of 9.5 points per game. That's the least average points allowed through the first two games of the season since 2001, when they allowed three points per game.
The #Packers haven't allowed this few points per game in their first two games since 2001.
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) September 15, 2019
This year they've allowed 9.5 points per game through two games. In 2001, they allowed three points per game through two games.
The history doesn't end just there, Packers fans, because you're going to like this tidbit. The last time the Packers allowed less than 20 points per game through the first two games of the season was back in 2010. Later that season, Green Bay went onto win Super Bowl XLV.
The #Packers have allowed 9.5 points per game through two games. The last time they averaged less than 20 points per game allowed in their first two games...
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) September 15, 2019
2010, when they won the Super Bowl.
General manager Brian Gutekunst set his sole focus in the offseason by adding talent on the defensive side of the ball. In free agency, they signed Za'Darius Smith, Adrian Amos and Preston Smith. Once the NFL Draft rolled along, the Packers selected Michigan pass rusher Rashan Gary and Maryland safety Darnell Savage with their first two picks.
On top of the statistics listed above, the Packers recorded three interceptions through Week 2, the fourth-most in the NFL.
So far, so good for the Green Bay Packers, as they hold a 2-0 record and sole possession of the NFC North division, thanks to the play of their defense.