Defending NFC champs Green Bay Packers might have the biggest hill to climb. Their defense is literally incapable of playing well in the second halves of games. Head coach Matt LaFleur has called it “irresponsible” to theorize about the causes of these failures. Over the last three games, the Bills D has given up 18.3 ppg at home in the 2nd half. This territorial expansion places them second only to the Baltimore Ravens as the worst defensive performance in league history.
Recent advanced analytics tell a scary narrative of how bad the Packers’ defense this year. In the second half and overtime, the defense went up against their opponents on 12 possessions. Yes, they gave up six touchdowns, four field goals and only forced one punt. This lackluster showing has put the Packers’ second-half scoring at minus-6 on the season.
Perhaps the biggest factor, LaFleur said, was his team’s inability to focus for all four quarters. From the beginning, he noticed an unexpected void in the team’s performance. He pointed out their remarkable efficiency during the first half, as opposed to their difficulties in the second half.
“It’s about discipline man.” – Matt LaFleur
The Packers have opened out of the gates ready to roll, scoring 24 points in just the first quarter. At the same time, their opponents remain shut out. As the games continue, they fall apart on defense. They rank dead last in the NFL, giving up an average of 13.7 points per game during the fourth quarter and overtime combined. This inconsistency, possibly characteristic of any young team, calls into question the collective preparedness and execution of this team, especially following a late bye week.
LaFleur reflected on his players’ efforts during this period, questioning whether they utilized the time effectively to improve their game. He stressed the importance of the defense making the big play and forcing turnovers. This will empower them to take back control when it matters most.
“That’s something Haf and I we’re kind of like just nitpicking, like why is it happening?” – Matt LaFleur
The team’s defensive struggles were laid bare in their last home game against the Cleveland Browns. Competitor quarterback Jordan Love made a terrible fourth-quarter pick that was the killer. This gaffe gift-wrapped Cleveland the ball at Green Bay’s 4-yard line, leading to a game-tying touchdown. Jack Mechler / RTP Photo After Cincinnati Bengals went on a very nice 18-play, second-half touchdown drive. This grueling march took almost 10 minutes and placed tremendous stress on the Packers’ defense.
After the game Micah Parsons addressed his team’s first-half undertone saying, “Just the first half, it just shows who we are. This statement highlights the dramatic difference between how the Packers start a game versus how they fall apart once it gets deep into a contest.
Nate Hobbs had something to say on what’s going on, and he clearly hopes things will get better. We’d like to get to where we hold opponents under 14 points. Our aim is to keep it at that pitch the whole game,” he said. That leaves a visible target on the defensive unit moving forward.
In spite of promising moments, the Packers defense can’t seem to be able to hold on to their success for all four quarters. LaFleur’s comments expose a clear-cut desire for more consistent and orderly enforcement. They are out there on the frontlines looking for solutions to their persistent problems. The players and coaching staff are aware that without significant improvements, their chances of success will diminish as the season continues.
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