Steelers must double Kenny Clark
Kenny Clark has been a consistent presence in the middle of the Packer’s defense since being drafted in 2016. He isn’t the flashiest defensive lineman (18.5 career sacks), but he is a quality pass rusher and a great run defender from the nose tackle position.
His game against the 49ers last week was his best of the season so far, limiting their usually run-happy offensive attack to just 67 yards on 21 carries. He also impacted the passing game by picking up his first sack of the season and doing a good job of collapsing the pocket.
The Steelers offensive line continues to be a major liability, making it hard for an already aging Ben Roethlisberger and a very young supporting cast to get going. A player like Clark presents a serious challenge for the interior line, but it also presents an opportunity to show they can step up and finally get the ground game working. Do I expect that to happen? No, but hopefully offensive line coach Adrian Klemm is trying to motivate this group for a big game in Lambeau.
Clark is the anchor of the Packer’s front seven, especially with edge rusher Za’Darius Smith on injured reserve with a back injury. He isn’t the Packer’s most dangerous defensive player, however. That honor goes to their All-Pro corner.