GREEN BAY – The Packers are trying to hit double-digit wins before Christmas for the first time in five years.
Here are five things to watch:
1. Another rookie QB: For the second consecutive week the Packers are facing a rookie quarterback, and for the third time in their last four games it's a QB in his first year as an NFL starter. Washington's Dwayne Haskins (six INTs, one lost fumble) has taken care of the football a little better than the Giants' Daniel Jones or the Panthers' Kyle Allen, but he has been sacked 22 times in essentially five games played. The Packers will look to keep the pressure on.
2. Top priority: In order to get after Haskins, though, Green Bay must first slow down Washington's ground game. The running back duo of Derrius Guice and Adrian Peterson piled up 228 rushing yards a week ago, carrying the offense and limiting the responsibility on Haskins. The Packers want to put this game in the young QB's hands.
3. Fits and starts: The Packers' running game has come and gone this season. Six times in 12 games, Green Bay has rushed for 117 yards or more. The other six times, the rushing total has been 79 yards or less. If the Packers want to hit their peak for a playoff push, the ground game needs to get going and stay going.
4. Special teams: Punter JK Scott appeared to be working out of his slump last week, kicker Mason Crosby has stayed focused through a difficult time for his family, and the Packers have changed returners looking for a spark. The third phase could have a big impact down the stretch.
5. Home cooking: The Packers have played just one home game since Oct. 20 and now finish up their regular-season slate at Lambeau Field in back-to-back weeks before hitting the road again for two weeks to finish the month. Green Bay is 5-1 at home so far this season.
