3 overreactions to Packers’ disappointing loss at Vikings
The Green Bay Packers started the 2022 NFL season as underwhelming as possible. We all thought they learned their lesson in last year’s season-opener when they got whooped by the New Orleans Saints, but it appears they are slow learners.
Green Bay looked wildly unprepared on both sides of the ball and were uninspiring, to say the least. Not only did they lack the execution to win, but the passion and enjoyment of the game were also missing. It’s safe to say it will be a tough week in the film room.
However, one game does not make the entire season. We saw the Packers bounce back last year and win 13 of their next 15 games. It will be difficult for them to match that same performance, but it’s not out of the realm of possibilities. Here are three massive overreactions from just one game of football.
Here are three massive overreactions to the Green Bay Packers’ season-opening loss at the Minnesota Vikings.
The Packers’ defense is overrated
The Packers’ defense was talked about a lot coming into the season. They dominated Green Bay’s offense regularly in practice and have all the pieces to be great. At least, on paper.
That doesn’t always translate to the field, as Green Bay struggled against the Vikings, giving up 17 first-half points. They did bounce back a bit in the second half and only gave up two field goals (one coming off a turnover that set Minnesota up in plus territory). It’s easy to say they are overrated after Justin Jefferson and company lit them up.
Aaron Rodgers is washed up
Aaron Rodgers struggled mightily against Minnesota, was visibly frustrated and was out of sorts. It didn’t help the game got off to the worst start possible when he dropped a dime into Christian Watson’s hand on what would’ve been a 75-yard touchdown reception if Watson had only caught the ball. That seemed to set the tone for an underwhelming game all around.
Green Bay was stopped in the red zone twice and only mustered seven total points in the game. Rodgers finished 22-34 for 195 yards, zero touchdowns, one interception, and one lost fumble. Not great, Bob. Haters will say Father Time finally caught up to him.
The Vikings will run away with the NFC North
Minnesota clearly prioritized this game for several reasons. Za’Darius Smith talked about coming to the Vikings so he could play Green Bay twice a year. It was also the first game of the Kevin O’Connell era and they wanted to get it off on the right foot. Mission accomplished on all fronts.
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Minnesota is a talented team that can win the NFC North, but that doesn’t mean the division is their’s after just one game. There’s a lot to like, but let’s pump the brakes a bit.