3 reasons Packers should fire defensive coordinator Mike Pettine

Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Mike Pettine talks to GM Brian Gutekunst during practice at Clarke Hinkle Field on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 in Ashwaubenon, Wis.Gpg Packerspractice 092618 Abw214
Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Mike Pettine talks to GM Brian Gutekunst during practice at Clarke Hinkle Field on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 in Ashwaubenon, Wis.Gpg Packerspractice 092618 Abw214 /
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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 24: Defensive coordinator Mike Pettine of the Green Bay Packers looks on during pregame warms up prior to the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on November 24, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 24: Defensive coordinator Mike Pettine of the Green Bay Packers looks on during pregame warms up prior to the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on November 24, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

1. Light fronts

The biggest reason Pettine should lose his job is the numerous light fronts he employs on a regular basis. It’s a staple in his playbook to call three-man rushes and/or soft zone coverages that bleed yards. This has come back to bite the Packers on a number of occasions.

His bend but don’t break strategy is fine for a defense that lacks talent, but Green Bay has a number of playmakers that were never truly unleashed. Guys like Jaire Alexander, Darnell Savage and Adrian Amos should be unlocked to play more freely.

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LaFleur expressed his frustration with these light fronts and soft coverages a few times to the media, so you know he’s talked to LaFleur about it in person. It’s likely the head coach will find a new coordinator who more closely aligns with his perspective about being aggressive.