The Bad of the Green Bay Packers
It’s rare to hear booing from Lambeau Field. It was surprising that the boos could even be heard due to the number of Lions fans in attendance. Still, with the performance the Green Bay Packers put forth, I can’t blame them. Outside of a few possessions on offense and defense, the Packers were dominated all night.
However, It didn’t look horrible from the start. On the Lions first drive of the game, with 13:44 on the clock, Rudy Ford intercepted Goff and returned it 21 yards to set the Packers up on Detroit’s 16-yard line. Unfortunately, the Packers could only come away with 3 points, and the misery only got worse.
The Worse
The Packers run defense allowed 211 rushing yards on 43 attempts. The Lions ran a total of 73 offensive plays. Fifty-eight percent of which they ran right down the Packer’s throats. David Montgomery, a familiar NFC North opponent, was able to carry the load with 32 attempts for 121 yards and three touchdowns. At some point, the Packers need to try something different on defense. Allowing this kind of rushing attack every week will get you beat.
Without a doubt, injuries have made a significant impact on the Packers. The most affected group so far has been the offensive line. The Packers allowed five sacks and 11 QB hits. Outside of the statistics, visually, Love had pressure in his face all night. If the Packers want Jordan Love to continue improving, they must keep him upright. The last thing Love needs is to start seeing ghosts.
Aaron Jones also only played 35% of offensive snaps. He more than likely was on a snap count of some kind, but either way, you would like to see him on the field more if he was cleared to play.
The Ugly
Not only were the Packers outplayed, but it was clear that they were out-coached as well. Lafluer had gone into the bag in previous games to help this young offense get rolling early. Not this game. The game plan wasn’t perfect. Even coach Lafluer admitted that he needs to improve: “The plan wasn’t good enough. That was humiliating being down 27 to 3 at halftime.”
The Packers seemingly have enough uphill battles to fight with injuries and young players. The coaching has to be on point for the Packers to take advantage of a softer upcoming schedule.
Moving forward, say what you will about the play calling or execution. The Packers need to find an identity to hang their hats on. Aristotle wrote, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” If the Packers can figure out who they are, I believe it will be the beginning of great things.
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