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Packers vs. Bears: Performances to watch

Green Bay’s running backs remain key producers

RB Jamaal Williams
RB Jamaal Williams

GREEN BAY – It's the 200th meeting in the NFL's oldest rivalry between the Packers and Bears.

Here are five things to watch:

1. Changing trends: Packers RB Jamaal Williams had a streak earlier this season of four consecutive games with a touchdown reception from QB Aaron Rodgers, but he's now gone four games without a TD catch. He still leads the team in the category with five. Is this the week he starts another streak?

2. Also from the backfield: Fellow RB Aaron Jones has 45 pass receptions this season, second on the team, and the Packers haven't had a running back hit the 50 mark since Ahman Green in 2003.

3. Favorite month: Packers DL Kenny Clark had 1½ sacks last week, pushing his career total to 13½. Six of those have come in December, and Clark has yet to record a full sack in his career against the Bears. He was credited with a half-sack back in Week 1.

4. Do it again: The Packers found a punt return game last week with newcomer Tyler Ervin, who compiled 51 yards on four returns – the four longest of the season for Green Bay. The Bears have the more decorated returners in RB Tarik Cohen on punts and WR Cordarrelle Patterson on kickoffs. In the cold weather, field position gains importance.

5. Key quarters: The Packers have outscored their opponents 98-46 in the first quarter of games this season. The Bears have outscored theirs 98-30 in the third quarter. Both teams are known to make their statements coming out of the locker room at different times.

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