The Green Bay Packers have momentum right now, but it is not because of Eddie Lacy. The running back barely saw the field on Thursday partially because of an injury and partially because he was in the doghouse. According to ESPN.com, Lacy did not start the game because he missed curfew. As the running back continues his roller coaster season, is there a bigger issue on the horizon?
According to Rob Demovsky of ESPN.com, Lacy was benched at the start of the Week 13 game because he missed curfew. The team wanted to send a message to the running back and gave James Starks the start instead. While missing curfew might not be deemed a huge issue, it has apparently been a reoccurring theme for Lacy. According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Packers have concerns over Lacy's focus and commitment. The Packers released Alonzo Harris who also missed team curfew with Lacy as they deemed him a bad influence on the young running back. Head coach Mike McCarthy would only say that Lacy needs to do a better job of preparing.
"He needs to build off his preparation," McCarthy said, via ESPN.com. "He's put up some yards in the prior games, but he can be better. We need to be better as a team, frankly. I discussed this in our team meeting. There's a lot more to give. The fine details are not where we want them to be. There's a formula for us to get it there. That was made clear to our players and with the expectations and the commitment that we've made to each other, and we've got to do a better job."
Lacy has certainly faced plenty of speculation over his abilities and issues this season. The running back has been dealing with injuries, fumbles and reported weight gain for much of the season. That has given Starks much more playing time than anyone thought would happen. When asked about the ongoing issues with, Lacy would only say that he did not really know his role on the offense anymore.
The Packers are going to try and keep the momentum moving and if Lacy hinders that, he will not play. Starks will be the go-to back. Green Bay is preparing to get Andrew Quarless back on the field to pair with Richard Rodgers. Randall Cobb and Davante Adams are healthy. The target is on Lacy right now to improve. There is still time for him to save his season. The running back can easily earn back his starting job back, but McCarthy is sending a message saying he is very comfortable with Starks if things do not change.
