The Green Bay Packers' bye week has arrived at the perfect time.
Aaron Rodgers and Co. rolled to a 31-17 win over a stubborn Arizona Cardinals team Sunday, but the Packers didn't escape unscathed.
Wide receiver Jordy Nelson was a surprise starter after he nursed his sore hamstring all week, but he didn't last long after suffering an ankle injury in the first quarter. The Packers also lost right tackle Bryan Bulaga (hip) and linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring).
The severity of those injuries are unknown at this time, but the Packers proved Sunday that they can make due without them ... at least in the short term.
As usual, Rodgers led the way with four more touchdown passes. Rodgers now has thrown for 22 touchdowns in his last six games. That's scary production for the reigning NFL MVP, whose slow start is as distant a memory as the Cardinals being 4-0.
Watch out for Randall Cobb, who has taken his game to the next level. He had two more TD receptions Sunday, to go with a 44-yard kickoff return. With Greg Jennings out indefinitely and Nelson banged up, Cobb could emerge as Rodgers' favorite target. LaDainian Tomlinson called Cobb a "poor man's Percy Harvin" last week. That's not giving the receiver nearly enough respect.
The Packers (6-3) have won four in a row to keep pace with the 7-1 Chicago Bears, who embarrassed the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. The NFC North could end up being the season's best division race.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.
