Packers 4th Quarter Collapse: AJ Dillon, Joe Barry and 3 Other Takeaways

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Sep 17, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker (7) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) from behind during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Joe Barry’s Defense

The offense didn’t do Joe Barry and his defense any favors, but they couldn’t seem to help themselves either.

After promising changes this year, it looked like the same unit fans have been anxious about for the past two years. They played conservative football, often having their defensive backs 10-plus yards off the line of scrimmage, allowing Atlanta to complete all the short passes their little hearts desired. They couldn’t stop the run when it mattered and allowed the Falcons to patiently drive down the field throughout the game.

At the end of the game, the Falcons racked up a whopping 446 total yards, including 211 on the ground. They also ran 78 total plays (to the Packers’ 47) and dominated the time of possession. The Packers couldn’t get off the field, allowing Atlanta to convert 6 of 15 third downs and 3 of 4 fourth downs. It was more of the same, and continues to put Barry on the hot seat.

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