In week three, the Green Bay Packers found themselves down 17 points heading into the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints. As a result, the likelihood of a victory against the Saints seemed minimal. However, after a stellar fourth-quarter performance by Jordan Love, and a gutsy two-point conversion call by Matt LaFleur, Green Bay is now celebrating. While the two-point conversion eventually led to a Packers win, the call could have a much more significant impact than what appears on the surface.
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Green Bay Packers Shifting Momentum
In week two, the Packers suffered a one-point loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Carrying over into the game against the Saints in which the Packers were down big through three quarters, the momentum in Green Bay was quickly dying out. Now, after an unbelievable comeback, vibes are at an all-time high.
While Love did play an enormous part in securing the comeback for Green Bay, Matt LaFleur is the real hero of the game. Despite not coaching his best game through three quarters, he put it all on the line and decided to go for two when it wasn’t necessary. It’s impossible to know what would’ve happened if they didn’t go for it then, but the game certainly would’ve had a different outcome.
Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin.
Next Five Games
Looking ahead to the next five games, it will be a very important stretch for Green Bay’s playoff implications. Thursday night against the Detroit Lions in particular will be a massive game for the Packers. Both teams sit at 2-1, and the winner will be in sole possession of the NFC North. With the shift of momentum, Green Bay could bring a different level of energy against Detroit.
The combined record of the Packers’ next five opponents is a mere 4-10. This isn’t even including the They will have a very good chance to be sitting with at least a 6-2 record after eight games. With the current trajectory of the NFC North, a 10-7 record could be good enough to win the division. With their remaining schedule, it’s more than possible to finish 10-7. If they can get and remain healthy, it will be up to them to play to their strengths every week.
