When it comes to the struggles of the Green Bay Packers, A player and coach is not alone.
November 22, 2023: Matt LaFleur, head coach of the Green Bay Packers, during the second half of the team’s game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado, USA. All Rights Reserved: Ron Chenoy/USA TODAY Sports
As the Green Bay Packers approach Week 8, they desperately need solutions. Following a three-game losing streak, the Packers head into their game against the Minnesota Vikings. The Denver Broncos, who are not very good, defeated them last week 19–17. They haven’t just lost; their performance in the previous three games is also concerning. Many Packers supporters are wondering who is responsible for the team’s difficulties. Though he is primarily to blame, head coach Matt LaFleur is not the only one.
Matt LaFleur One of the Green Bay Packers’ Numerous Problems
Some people seem to think that the expectations they had for the Packers in 2023 were too high. Because the Packers are in what many considered to be a weak division, many thought they might compete for a postseason spot in 2023. Regretfully, people who anticipated a playoff team underestimated this team’s skill and coaching.
Consider the position of quarterback. In his first season at quarterback, former starter Aaron Rodgers could only lead the Packers to a 6-10 record. In addition, Rodgers had access to superior weapons than what the Packers have available right now. Consequently, it was utterly ridiculous to think that Jordan Love, who is far less skilled than Aaron Rodgers, would lead the team to the playoffs in Rodgers’ absence.
Along with a young and inexperienced roster and a returning defensive coordinator who appears to be in over his head, the 2023 Packers began the season with a new quarterback. What makes you think that this is a team capable of making the playoffs? It’s the current lack of effort and identity that Packers fans should be upset about, though. Matt LaFleur has been subjected to criticism for this reason.
The Inadequate Playcalling Performance of Matt LaFleur
The offense for the Green Bay Packers is identity-less, as we have previously stated. The youthful offensive roster will be cited by many, but that is not an acceptable defense. Matt LaFleur, an offensive mind who has received a lot of praise for his playcalling abilities, needs to maximize his potential, which he hasn’t done in 2023.
LaFleur has emphasized the value of starting the ground game in her sermons. Even though he has preached about it, he hasn’t really followed through. LaFleur hasn’t called Aaron Jones’ number nearly enough, even when the starting running back is available and healthy. In the lone game he attempted to establish the lead, he teamed up with backup running back A.J. Dillon against the Las Vegas Raiders. The ability to modify a game plan is one of the qualities of a great playcaller. It’s among the most significant things LaFleur hasn’t accomplished.
It’s even worse with the passing game. Matt LaFleur’s desire to proceed cautiously with the inexperienced Love made sense. But eventually, as LaFleur has refused to do, you have to take off the training wheels. The strategy LaFleur has employed in the last three games is similar to what you would see from an NFL team during preseason play.
You wouldn’t know it from looking at LaFleur’s offensive production for a team that was supposed to be “fast and athletic.” Rather than searching for big plays downfield, LaFleur’s offense now focuses more on “dunk and dunk.” You would think he would be able to complete more passes downfield with quick pass catchers like Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Luke Musgrave at his disposal. However, LaFleur hasn’t succeeded in doing so.
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