Matt LaFleur Defends Resting Key Players in 16-3 Defeat
In an unusual postseason scenario, the Green Bay Packers concluded their regular season with a 16-3 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings. This game saw third-string quarterback Clayton Tune under center, as head coach Matt LaFleur opted to rest 16 key players. The decision came after the Packers secured the seventh seed in the playoffs, allowing them to prioritize player health over a final game victory.
LaFleur’s Cautious Approach
Reflecting on last year’s experience, LaFleur highlighted the necessity of protecting crucial players. Last season, the Packers lost wide receiver Christian Watson to a serious injury during the final game. “I think we did the right thing today,” LaFleur stated. “Time will tell, but I feel better about this certainly than I did a year ago.”
Key Players Rested
- Jordan Love: Cleared from concussion protocol but served as backup.
- Malik Willis: Inactive due to right shoulder and hamstring injuries.
Rather than risk further injury, LaFleur explained that even if Love had played, he wouldn’t have thrown a pass. The outcome of this matchup marked a historic low for the Packers, who recorded minus-7 passing yards— their fewest since 1976.
Loss Records
This defeat extended the Packers’ losing streak to four games, a rare occurrence for a playoff team in NFL history. Only three other playoff teams experienced a similar situation:
| Year | Team | Losing Streak |
|---|---|---|
| 1986 | Jets | 5 losses |
| 2024 | Steelers | 4 losses |
| 1999 | Lions | 4 losses |
Out of these teams, only the 1986 Jets managed to win a playoff game. The Packers will now look to regroup and prepare for the upcoming postseason with hopes of overcoming their recent struggles.
