Packers Failed to Beat Both the Vikings and Lions for the First Time in Over 40 Years

The Green Bay Packers monstrosity of a 2017 season is even more brutal from a historical standpoint. The Packers have enjoyed dominating the NFC North in the new century winning nine of the last 16 division titles. But, when your team doesn’t make the playoffs like they did a year ago, the next best thing is beating your rivals. The Brett Hundley led Packers failed to do that for the first time in over 40 years. The last time the Packers failed to beat the Minnesota Vikings or Detroit Lions in the regular season was 1975.

Overcoming the pitiful Chicago Bears twice last season certainly lightens the blow but it’s a only band aid on a festering wound. The Packers getting swept by their other two division opponents will sting until Aaron Rodgers takes the field next season. Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr broke Rodgers collarbone in week six forcing him to miss most of that game and their second contest later in the season. Rodgers also missed Green Bay’s two divisional match-ups against Detroit. In those four losses, they were outscored 104 to 38.

To add more perspective the last time this happened NFL teams played a 14-game schedule. Quarterback John Hadl was at the helm for Green Bay and former Super Bowl Champion Bart Starr was the head coach. Per pro football reference, the Packers finished the 1975 season with a 4-10 record however they were able to able to beat the Bears in their second meeting. I guess some things never change.

On top of having more Super Bowls Green Bay has a winning record vs every NFC North opponent:

95-93-6 vs the Chicago Bears

98-70-7 vs the Detroit Lions

59-52-2 vs the Minnesota Vikings

Bragging rights will remain in Minnesota’s hands until at least week two of the upcoming season. A revenge opportunity against the Lions won’t come until week five.

The circumstances will be different this time around with a healthy roster and new-look defense.

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