The Packers were able to secure the first week of the NFL Playoffs by one intense and surprising game. The game showcased quite a different Lions offense and defence. Off of an 8-game losing streak the Detroit Lions truly had nothing to lose when facing off with the 12-3 record Green Bay Packers. It’s like all true NFL fans say, any given Sunday teams can rise or fall.
The Lions in the first half managed to achieve a two-touchdown lead over the Packers. Outwitting the defence of the Green Bay Packers the Lions were effective in making plays and moving the ball. QB Aaron Rodger didn’t seem to be playing like himself, with a couple throws off the mark along with a couple collapses of the pocket, Rodgers was not having a great start to his day. The Packers only successful scoring drive in the first half finished with a field goal due to significant stalls made by the Lions defence. Heading into the locker room for half-time the score stood at 17 to 3.
After what can only be described as scolding by head coach LaFleur the Packers somehow woke up and completed a nice scoring drive making the score 10 to 17 early in the third quarter. All season the Lions have not managed to keep nice leads during games and generally lose their advantage in the second half. Towards the end of the game the Lions only score was a field goal to make Detroit’s total score 20.
On the other side after a successful third quarter for the Pack, 4th quarter saw them shine with a total of 13 points and a game winning field goal to cap off the victory and a guaranteed 2 seed spot kicked by Mason Crosby. A game that in the first half looked like it was all looking up for Detroit’s quickly turned green and gold for Rodgers and the entire Packers family.
This game was not only important to the Lions to break the straight losing streak. It was also vital for the Packers as well with the victory today the stage is set and now Green Bay now has a first round by for themselves and if the football Gods continue to be on their side then the Seattle Seahawks will defeat the San Francisco 49ers and make Green Bay the 1 seed. Meaning home field advantage throughout the entire playoff series as well as a first-round bye. However even if that isn’t the result after today the Packers are still rewarded a week off because as the number 2 seed in either division that team also is rewarded wild card weekend off.
There are still many game left to warrant a completed bracket, but for now Packers fans can celebrate and relax, while Lions fans can look forward to next year and next season.