porky88
  • porky88
  • Veteran Member Topic Starter
10 years ago
In front of a record crowd at Lambeau Field, the Green Bay Packers defeated the New England Patriots 26-21 in one of the most thrilling regular-season games you could ask for. The win cements the Pack as Super Bowl contenders, and reinforces their dominance at home.

The Packers scored in each of their first five drives, producing first-half yardage numbers (347) that compared favorably with their first-half performances against Chicago (401) and Philadelphia (323). Unlike Chicago and Philadelphia, New England hunkered down in the red zone, and held the Pack to four field goals. Both of Green Bay‘s touchdowns occurred outside the 20s.

You can bet their bend but don’t break style was part of their game plan. They decided to play coverage, and rush quarterback Aaron Rodgers with three and four men. This approach only works if the defense is able to generate pressure with its down lineman. The Patriots couldn’t, and Rodgers picked them apart.

New England’s offense also didn’t overwhelm Dom Capers’ defense, as many expected. Their 21 points was their lowest since week four, when they put up 14 against the Chiefs. The running game lacked consistency, and their receiving corps failed to generate the explosive plays that Green Bay’s did.

In the end, the game goes down in history as a five-point win for the Packers. Dive a bit deeper, though, and you’ll see just how fortunate the Patriots were to make the game that close.

Turning Point

Prior to this game, opponents hadn’t sacked quarterback Tom Brady in three weeks. It took nearly 57 minutes into Sunday’s game, but linebacker Mike Neal and defensive lineman Mike Daniels combined to get him. On a pivotal third-and-9, Neal beat New England left tackle Nate Solder around the edge and pounced on Brady. Just when it looked as if the two-time MVP may escape, Daniels was there to help finish the sack. The play resulted in a nine-yard loss, forcing New England to attempt a 47-yard field goal with less than three minutes remaining. Kicker Stephen Gostkowski missed. The Patriots never held the ball again.

Stud of the Game

Did you see New England coach Bill Belichick seek out Rodgers after the game? He clearly wanted to show his respect to the man who torched his defense for 368 yards and two touchdowns. The fact Belichick would go out of his way to speak to Rodgers following the game speaks volumes about his performance.

Play of the Game

Good teams score in the closing moments of the half, and that’s exactly what New England did when they scored a touchdown with 1:14 remaining in the first half. Better teams respond. Receiver Jordy Nelson’s 45-yard catch-and-run sucked all the momentum New England had just gained out of them. Cornerback Darrelle Revis made just one mistake on the night, and it came on this play, when he allowed Nelson to get the inside advantage on him. New England also brought pressure on the play, so the middle of the field was open. Rodgers and Nelson made them pay.

Looking Ahead

The Packers are looking to push for home-field advantage, while holding off Detroit in the NFC North.

Arizona currently sits atop the NFC with a 9-3 record, but they’re falling fast, and unlikely to win their division. Meanwhile, Seattle is beginning to hit their stride. They’re healthy, and they’ve returned to their identity on offense. Instead of worrying about getting Percy Harvin touches, they can grind out wins with running back Marshawn Lynch, and have quarterback Russell Wilson contribute with his legs and efficiency.

If the Seahawks don’t lose again this season, then Green Bay must win out to avoid losing the top seed to the defending Super Bowl champions. Therefore, along with the Lions, keep your eyes on Seattle going forward. They need to slip up at least once to give the Packers some breathing room.

Please visit Row12.com  for weekly articles done by myself on college and fantasy football.
Dulak
10 years ago
That was a Great game ...

the pats had nelson and cobb blanketed pretty much the whole 1st 1/2 - their corners are quite good - tall and physical.

Got to admit we played quite well - in all aspects of the game. Surprised MM had some 'trickier' plays with TEs and Cobb etc lining up in the backfield - hey whatever works.

Im actually liking how they are using matthews - thought it might be a waste of talent but he's doing real well mixing it up.

barrington had a good game too

sorry to see lattimore go down - liked his play at ILB also (previously)


-edit- was going to add ... was a bit nervous after watching some pats games this year to see us up against Edelman Amendola and LaFell - nice group of receivers there
Zero2Cool
10 years ago
Matt never disappoints, always gives us a good read. Thank you!
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