Green Bay Packers take over 1st Place in the NFC North behind Rodgers – Epic Painting Madison GBP Update

Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The Green Bay Packers took advantage of a tough day for the other teams in the NFC North, grabbing the only win in the division on the day and claiming the top spot. With a depleted receiving core, it would have seemed difficult to see the Packers really taking control of the game and making it look easy, but that’s exactly what they did for most of the day.

Aaron Rodgers turned in a stellar performance, looking the part of the NFL All-Pro quarterback he’s proven to be, finding receivers open all day and making it look effortless in the process. Rodgers threw for 260 yards and three touchdowns, each to a different receiver. With both James Jones and Randall Cobb out due to injury, Rodgers just found the open man and counted on his group to grind out the win against the Cleveland Browns.

Related: Even in Victory, Green Bay Packers Continue to Fight Adversity

Eddie Lacy has provided the other option for the Packers, making the running game viable again, therefore opening up the passing game of Rodgers. The use of Lacy, who punched in a touchdown of his own, has really made Rodgers that much more dangerous again. Being able to mix up the play call and be threatening on the ground as well has helped the Packers get their feet under them, and it’s led their climb to the top of the NFC North after starting the year off dropping two of their first three games.

They’ll be a team to watch as the season progresses because Rodgers just seems to keep getting better; and now with the option of the run, the Packers are multidimensional on offense once again.

Bob Francis is a contributor for RantSports.com.  Follow him on Twitter @rfrancisjr, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google