How does an NFL team handle a short week?
That’s what the Green Bay Packers face as they prepare to travel to Detroit on Thanksgiving to play the Lions just four days after they beat the Minnesota Vikings.
In the latest FOX 11 One on One interview, offensive lineman Donovan Jennings explained the routine of a short week to FOX 11 Sports Director Ryan Wing.
“The physical aspect is totally out the window. It’s just all mental, mental, mental,” he said.
With no actual practices, Jennings said the few days are filled with walkthroughs and meetings. The biggest challenge, he said, is retaining game plan and scouting information and then turning that into on-field performance.
The conversation then turned to the success of running back Emanuel Wilson against the Vikings. He rushed for a career-high 107 yards in a spot start for the injured Josh Jacobs.
“We wanted to be enforcers and we wanted to enforce our will, so I think that was on display this Sunday,” Jennings said.
The first-year pro from South Florida also answered questions about the Packers’ defense — including going up against star pass rusher Micah Parsons in practice.
“He definitely (makes) me better,” Jennings said. “I’m happy I get to practice against him and not play against him.”
Looking ahead to Detroit, Jennings had this to say about the team’s attitude: “Be the hammer, not the nail.”