ABOUT THIS EPISODE
The Packers open the 2026 season Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings, and there are a LOT of unknowns on both sides.
Minnesota has completely changed its offense with Kyler Murray at quarterback and Frank Smith bringing over concepts from Miami’s run game. With a healthier offensive line and Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jauan Jennings and T.J. Hockenson around Murray, this could be a significantly better Vikings offense.
For Green Bay, the questions start on defense. Can the new 3-4 front fix a run defense that collapsed late last season? Can Edgerrin Cooper help manufacture a pass rush while Micah Parsons is out? And can a young secondary survive against Minnesota’s weapons?
On the other side, Green Bay finally gets Christian Watson and Tucker Kraft healthy at the same time, but injuries along the offensive line could completely change how Matt LaFleur has to call this game.
I break down both matchups and finish with my three biggest keys for the Packers to start the season 1-0.
