Three members of Mike Pettine’s Green Bay Packers defense made Pro Football Focus’ “Team of the Week” for Week 3.
Edge rusher Preston Smith, linebacker Blake Martinez and cornerback Jaire Alexander were all recognized by PFF as standout players at their respective positions following the Packers’ 27-16 win over the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
Smith tied a career-high with 3.0 sacks, including a strip-sack in the second quarter that led to a touchdown and a fourth-down sack in the fourth quarter. Martinez produced a game-high 13 tackles, including five considered “stops” by PFF, and didn’t miss a tackle. Alexander locked down Emmanuel Sanders, breaking up two passes and allowing three short completions.
The Packers defense produced three takeaways and held the Broncos to only 16 points, the third straight game Pettine’s group has heled an opponent under 20 points to start the 2019 season. Big performances at every level of the defense powered the effort.
This is the second straight week a member of the Packers defense has made PFF’s “Team of the Week.” Defensive lineman Kenny Clark was recognized by PFF following the Packers’ win over the Minnesota Vikings last Sunday.
The Philadelphia Eagles, who will come to Lambeau Field on Thursday night, had two players on the list for Week 3. Jason Kelce, who will face off with Clark on the interior, was the top center. Malcolm Jenkins made the team as the top special teams player. He blocked a late field goal against the Detroit Lions.
