The Packers began the season 2-0. Looking like they were a complete team with all three phases being complementary. However, the past two weeks have been plagued with special teams’ debacles. Forcing the Packers to take a long look in the mirror as the bye week looms.
The game started with the Packers looking like they were going to have an all gas no brakes attitude. On a 4th and 5 on the Packers second drive while up 7-0, Matt LaFleur chose to punt. In that moment, the choice was to play scared instead of winning the game outright.
Sure, the Packers defense has been leading the way this season. However, you pay Jordan Love a massive contract to get the 5 yards at midfield. Love was phenomenal in this game. When the defense kept letting them down, Love answered the call over and over again.
Once again, Love proves the moment is not too big for him. Unfortunately, it seems like the play calling handcuffed him. While the offensive line is banged up, put the trust in your quarterback that has proven he will put the game on his back in a big moment.
Packers Have Plenty to Improve Heading into the Bye Week
I do not even know where to start with everything that needs to improve. The bye week could not be coming at a more opportune time after this disaster. Let’s start with the special team’s performance. If the Packers do not allow a blocked field goal last week, they win the game.
Everything went downhill when the Packers allowed an extra point to be blocked this week. Dallas had zero life until that moment. From that point on, the Packers single-handedly allowed Dallas back into the game.
The offensive line needs to get healthy in the absolute worst way. Nevertheless, Love continued to remain clutch despite the play of the line.
Between terrible special teams, conservative play calling, and then the defense falling apart, the Packers lost the game in multiple phases. While the defense was by far the most impressive unit through three weeks, they were killed by small screens and losing Devonte Wyatt to injury.
Matt LaFleur’s end of game management continues to kill this team. LaFleur has to quit coaching not to lose the game and coach to win the game. With coaches in the division who are inherently aggressive, LaFleur has to step up in big moments and trust his team.
The one thing I can say is it is still important not to overreact about both the offense and defense. The defense looked stellar the first three games and poor tonight. It does not mean the defense is terrible. The offense played out of their minds; it does not mean the offense will score 40 points every single week.
Thank goodness the bye week is here. When the Packers look at the film, my hope is that the things that need corrected ring clear. If the Packers do not improve things quickly, they will continue to fall behind in a very competitive league.
