Looking into the upcoming Packers season, it seems that a strong defense will have to make up for a lackluster offense, particularly when it concerns the run game.

Does this mean the Packers are guaranteed to be heading down a path that leads them short of postseason play for the third consecutive year? Certainly not. Remember in the championship year of 1996, the Packers did not feature a 1,000 yard rusher.

It’s not as if the Packers don’t believe they will have a chance to be a solid running team.

With an offensive line that returns all five starters, head coach Mike McCarthy has projected his confidence in the experience gained in year one of the zone blocking scheme, certain that it will carry over into year two.

But with a group of running backs that have been banged up throughout training camp, including projected starter Vernand Morency, who was hurt the on the first day of practice, getting the timing down will be an issue.

With the emergence of rookie James Jones and overall solid play from the receiving core, and Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre tossing the ball, McCarthy may be tempted to abandon relying on the run.

The bottom line is, in order for Green Bay to consistently move the ball; they must call upon the short passing game as they’ve done well in the preseason. Completing the shorter routes to Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and Jones, and allowing them to make the most out of the run after the catch, is an integral part of the West Coast offense.

Instead of the play-action passing game setting up long throws down the field later in games, McCarthy will be looking for double-moves from receivers to set up big plays.

Tight ends Donald Lee and Bubba Franks will need to continue their revival. Also, the Packers have shown a no-huddle offense that has been successful.

Favre has played this way before and Aaron Rodgers executed this style quite well in the preseason. An emphasis on the running game can win a lot of games, but it appears that is not a luxury the Packers will have this season.

There are other ways to win games and it will be up to Favre and McCarthy to infuse some creativity into the Green Bay offense.

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