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Uncommon opponent makes for challenging week

Packers and Ravens haven't squared off since 2013

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GREEN BAY -- As with all the AFC North teams the Packers are facing this year, they haven't seen them in four seasons, since 2013.

Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy said on Wednesday that facing an uncommon opponent this late in the season is an even bigger challenge, because any offseason study done becomes less relevant as a team goes through the constant change and evolution of a new year.

That obviously cuts both ways, but McCarthy said what stands out about Baltimore on film is how much of its game plan varies week to week based on the opponent.

"They're a heavy scheme team," McCarthy said prior to Green Bay's Wednesday practice. "You see a lot of different things on video, both on offense and defense. That's really what we're focused on."

Led by QB Joe Flacco, the Ravens are 4-5 and looking to stay in the AFC playoff hunt. Baltimore has returned to the playoffs just once since winning the Super Bowl five years ago. Like Chicago last week, Baltimore is coming off its bye week.

The pressure the Ravens' defense puts on opposing quarterbacks and their strong special teams are two things the Packers are paying particular attention to.

As the Packers prepared to hit the practice field Wednesday, McCarthy said QB Brett Hundley would be a full participant despite a hamstring injury from last Sunday's game. He's also "hopeful" RB Ty Montgomery (ribs) could be ready to go by the end of the week.

If Montgomery can't go, and with Aaron Jones out multiple weeks with a knee injury, rookie RB Devante Mays could be the backup to fellow rookie Jamaal Williams, who took over in the backfield and rushed 20 times for 67 yards against the Bears. Mays hasn't been active on game day for about a month.

"It's important for all your young guys to get ready," McCarthy said. "It's tough, because you make the team, but you're not getting the reps with the game plan, and the next thing you know they're in there.

"They'll be ready. Jamaal was definitely ready. We're going to need everybody in that (running backs) room."

Packers.com will have more following practice and locker room interviews.

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