Packers Clinch Comeback Win Against Cardinals
GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Packers trailed until the final moments but managed to secure a 27-23 victory over the Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on Sunday.
Key Takeaways from the Thrilling Win
Here are five essential insights from the Packers’ comeback that brought their record to 4-1-1:
1. Clutch Plays Made All the Difference
The Packers executed critical plays in the final moments, including a fourth-down stop, a successful fourth-and-2 conversion, and a crucial sack that helped seal the game. Despite inconsistent play throughout the game, they rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
Head Coach Matt LaFleur praised his team’s resilience, noting the challenging start to the trip and in-game obstacles. “Guys kept battling, and that’s what it takes in this league,” he commented.
2. A Bold Offensive Decision Paid Off
With 2:32 left and the Packers down 23-20, LaFleur initially called for a field goal. However, sensing dissatisfaction from quarterback Jordan Love, he reassessed and opted to go for it on fourth-and-2. Love successfully completed a pass to Tucker Kraft, leading to a touchdown by Josh Jacobs shortly after.
Love remarked on LaFleur’s decision, highlighting the trust it implied in the offense. Jacobs, despite a calf injury, delivered a strong performance, carrying the ball 13 times for 55 yards and scoring two touchdowns.
3. Defense Shines with Key Plays
The Packers’ defense stepped up at critical moments. A strip-sack by Rashan Gary marked the team’s first turnover since Week 3, allowing the offense to tie the game. Additionally, Edgerrin Cooper’s fourth-down stop was instrumental in helping the team regain possession, directly leading to game-winning points.
Micah Parsons also made a significant impact, recording three sacks, two of which were on third downs, preventing Arizona from scoring.
4. Areas for Improvement Remain
Despite the victory, the Packers faced numerous issues, including multiple penalties and defensive lapses that allowed the Cardinals to score easily. The team’s early travel troubles compounded the difficulties, yet LaFleur praised the players for maintaining focus despite these distractions.
“Too many undisciplined plays, and we’re lucky it didn’t come back to bite us,” LaFleur remarked about the penalties affecting the game.
5. Last-Minute Plays Proved Crucial
The final seven seconds of the first half were pivotal. Following a Cardinals touchdown, Love, initially considering a knee, executed a quick strike to Romeo Doubs, setting up a record-breaking 61-yard field goal from Lucas Havrisik.
Love emphasized the significance of those three points, which would become beneficial as the game progressed. LaFleur’s aggressive call paid off, showcasing the team’s ability to adapt and seize opportunities.
