Matthews plans on playing at Washington

GREEN BAY – In a bit of déjà vu, Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Clay Matthews said his hamstring feels good after a week of practice and hopes to play Sunday in Washington.

Of course, he’s been here before. Matthews said he had a chance to play against the Atlanta Falcons last month. He thought he might play against the Indianapolis Colts one week later, but his hamstring had a setback while rehabbing two days before the game.

“It was just part of the rehab process which I was doing,” Matthews said of his setback. “Obviously I was out there Thursday at practice, but continuing the movements and making sure everything was ready, and unfortunately we had a setback. Just doing a little too much, I guess.

“But I feel good about where I’m at right now. It’s unfortunate. You don’t ever want to miss any games in this league, but like I said, I feel good. I feel healthy, and I plan on being out there, barring any setbacks.”

Matthews has missed the Packers' last three games. No, he never wants to sit out, but watching what has become of the Packers' defense recently was especially difficult.

The Packers have allowed more than 30 points in each of their past three games, the worst being Sunday’s 47-25 loss at the Tennessee Titans.

In four games without Matthews this season, the Packers have allowed an average of 34.5 points. They’re averaging 19.2 points allowed in five games with Matthews.

“As a team,” Matthews said, “having dropped what, three in a row now? It’s difficult to watch. Especially when you want to have a hand in whatever’s going on out there, at least be a part of those wins or losses as an accountable teammate. It’s difficult to see.”