House makes case for nickel, dime CB job

With Casey Hayward apparently still struggling with his hamstring, the Packers need someone to step up in the nickel and dime defensive packages again this season.

Davon House appears to be the leading contender for the job.

The fourth-year cornerback added to his impressive summer by making several plays against the Oakland Raiders. He played outside corner in the nickel and dime defense and broke up three passes, and had three tackles and one assisted tackle. He added a tackle on a first-quarter punt.

Hayward had six interceptions in a breakout rookie season two years ago, but played sparingly last season after sustaining a nagging hamstring injury. Then-rookie Micah Hyde stepped up and claimed the nickel corner spot last season, but this year is making a transition to safety. If Hyde becomes a starter, it could open the door for House.

House shined brightest during the last 2 minutes of the first half. On second-and-10 from the Packers' 26-yard line and 1:26 on the clock, House intercepted a deep pass near the left side of the end zone intended for Denarius Moore, but landed out of bounds.

Following two quick turnovers that gave the ball back to Oakland, House made a nice play to push tight end Mychal Rivera out of bounds after a 3-yard gain. Then, with 16 seconds left in the first half, House broke up a pass intended for former teammate James Jones deep down the left sideline.