In week 16, the Green Bay Packers visited the Arizona Cardinals. They left the desert battered, bruised, and searching for some confidence. After a scoreless first quarter, the Cardinals finished the half with a seven play, 80 yard drive to take a commanding 17-0 lead after Aaron Rodgers threw a red zone interception. This turnover happened with under two minutes left in the half and was the turning point, in the game. With the score 10-0, the Packers were driving and ready to cut into the lead before the half. Not only did the Packers come away with no points, the Cardinals increased the lead.

The second half did not get much better. Rodgers lost two fumbles that were returned for touchdowns and the Cardinals were never threatened. The blowout loss fell clearly on the offense as the Cardinals defense outscored the Packers offense 14-8. 

Can the Green Bay Packers compete with the Arizona Cardinals? Yes, the Packers did compete with the Cardinals in the first half. As poorly as they played, they had a chance to go into halftime down by one score. Take away the two defensive scores and the two play 28 yard drive set up by a turnover, and you have a 17-8 game. 

To compete on saturday, the Packers need to protect Rodgers and elminate the key turnovers. The offensive line should be healthier heading into the game. With a healthier line, the Packers should be able to have a better showing. With less pressure, the Packers can eliminate the turnovers.