Packers' Young Tackles Step Up Amidst Injuries to Tom and Banks
The Green Bay Packers secured a victory against the Washington Commanders despite injuries sidelining two starting offensive linemen: Zach Tom and Aaron Banks. The performance of rookie Anthony Belton and trade acquisition Darian Kinnard provided reassurance for the team's depth.
Next-Man-Up Mentality Proves Crucial
General Manager Brian Gutekunst's foresight in drafting Anthony Belton and trading for Darian Kinnard paid off as both players filled in at right tackle for the injured Zach Tom. First-round pick Jordan Morgan also stepped up at guard in place of Aaron Banks. Tom's oblique injury, sustained in the season opener against the Detroit Lions, forced him to miss the game against the Commanders.
Tom expressed confidence in his replacements, stating, "Yeah, they played well. We moved the ball." Banks, who also missed the game due to an ankle sprain suffered against Detroit, further emphasized the importance of the team's depth.
Coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged the impressive performance of the replacements. "I thought what was pretty impressive is missing two starters... but having a new right tackle with Belton in there and Kinnard playing some, I thought our guys did a pretty good job with protection," LaFleur said. Veteran center Elgton Jenkins reinforced the team's philosophy: "the strength of the wolf is the pack."
Belton and Kinnard's Performance Breakdown
Belton received extensive snaps during training camp, preparing him for a role as a top backup at both left and right tackle. Despite his lack of regular-season experience, Belton demonstrated composure on the field. "I felt good, man," Belton said. "I had a little bit of nerves. But once I got out there, I definitely had some fun."
The running game faced challenges as the Commanders focused on containing running back Josh Jacobs. In the passing game, however, Belton was called for holding on one play, negating a touchdown. Kinnard had impressive series leading the Packers to drive 96 yards for a touchdown and 92 yards for a touchdown,.
Kinnard acknowledged the need for continued improvement. "Just getting out there, getting thrown into the storm, really kind of just helps you settle in a little quicker," Kinnard said. "But there's still things I've got to fix. There's things I need to improve on, just working on completely understanding the game plan and knowing what's going to happen out there before it happens."
Love's Confidence in the Offensive Line
Quarterback Jordan Love completed 19 of 31 passes for 292 yards and two touchdowns, highlighting the offensive line's success in protecting him. Love expressed confidence in all of his teammates. "No matter who’s out there, I’m going to have confidence in those guys," Love said.
While the Packers are eager to have Tom and Banks return, the performance of Belton and Kinnard provides valuable depth and reassurance as the season progresses.
Brewer Hicklen Designated for Assignment
In separate news, the Phillies designated Brewer Hicklen for assignment. This move allows the Phillies to add Rafael Lantigua to the active roster to compensate for the loss of Edmundo Sosa due to injury.
