The Packers rarely escape Florida with a win. Between the weather and coming off a blowout loss in primetime, the odds were stacked against them.
However, the team made several adjustments heading into Sunday’s matchup. Most notably, completely revamping the offensive line unit. Shifting the strategy to relying on vet experience became a nonnegotiable.
If Jordan Love is going to lead this team, he has to have time in the pocket and remain upright. While it isn’t ideal that it took this long for the team to notice this, it is better than simply doing nothing.
For every sign of progress, the Packers seem to pay a price. This time, it was Edgerrin Cooper, who saw his best game end abruptly with a season-ending Achilles tear.
The Packers lived to fight another week, but the road ahead looks steeper than ever. With three starters already lost for the season through four games, it’s fair to wonder how much adversity this team can overcome.
Packers Face More Questions than Answers Even in Victory
Losing Edgerrin Cooper is a massive blow to the defense. Despite leaving with his injury, he remained at the top of the team with nine tackles. After coming off a shaky performance against the Falcons, Cooper bounced right back.
The responsibility now shifts to McDuffie and Hopper, who will need to step up in Cooper’s absence. While they can help offset the loss, matching Cooper’s impact is nearly impossible. The linebacker group will have to elevate its play across the board.
Meanwhile, there is still no clear answer on when Micah Parsons will return. The timeline continues to be pushed back. According to the team, there has been no setbacks with his recovery.
Remaining cautious is the smart move, as Parsons is a need for the long-term goals. Fans are getting antsy to have their star edge rusher back on the field though.
Kevin Zeitler will join the team next week, adding a boost to the protection. Love took no sacks, and the line only allowed two quarterback hits. Comparing this to the beating he has taken in the first three weeks, this is a big win.
Overall, this is a game the Packers had to win, and they found a way to leave Tampa with a victory. The challenge remains on building the momentum and stacking small successes.
As for the injuries, it is hard to tell if the team can overcome losing three core pieces. However, it is still next man up and the players must be ready.
The Bears head to Lambeau next. Despite Caleb Williams going down, Ben Johnson has had a solid plan for both backup quarterbacks on the roster. Now, it is on the Packers to show they can win a crucial NFC North matchup.
