In Brief
Green Bay's Aaron Kampman has struggled in his adjustment to being an outside linebacker.
(David Stluka / Associated Press)
Last meeting:
The Lions became the first team in league history to go 0-16 as they lost to the Packers, 31-21, in Week 17 last season.
Streaks:
Green Bay has owned Detroit over the last decade, having won 15 of the last 17 meetings. The Packers have a 88-64-7 overall edge in the historic series, including the playoffs.
Last week:
Daunte Culpepper filled in for Matthew Stafford and played well, but a late Lions rally fell short as they lost to the Steelers, 28-20. ... The Packers were on a bye.
Keep your eye on ...
Mark Tauscher's impact: The main culprit for Green Bay's sluggish 2-2 start has been its offensive line. The Packers have surrendered a league-high 20 sacks, despite playing one fewer game than most teams due to their early bye. A combination of injuries and poor play are to blame and the Packers brought back the veteran Tauscher this week to try to stabilize the line.
Aaron Kampman's pass-rushing production: Kampman was impacted more than most by the Packers' switch to a 3-4 in the offseason as he had to move from his career-long spot at defensive end and learn how to be an outside linebacker. So far, he has not fully adjusted to the new position and has only one sack. Coming off the bye week, Kampman will look to show his comfort level is growing.
Jim Schwartz's defensive adjustments: Detroit's rookie coach came from Tennessee, where he coordinated one of the league's top defenses over the past few years. He does not have nearly as much talent to work with now, but the Lions have improved from last in total defense to 22nd this year. He has a tough task ahead of him, however, in game-planning for the Packers' explosive offense.
Did you know?
Culpepper has 14 touchdowns and zero interceptions in his last five games against the Packers. ... Lions DE Cliff Avril has a sack in three straight games against divisional opponents. ... With one more catch, Donald Driver will pass Sterling Sharpe and become the Packers' all-time receptions leader. ... Green Bay safety Nick Collins has an interception in two straight games against the Lions.
