The Green Bay Packers are looking to bounce back after a narrow 34-31 loss to the Detroit Lions in Week 14. The defeat dropped the Packers to 9-4, significantly reducing their chances of catching the Lions (12-1) in the NFC North standings. Despite a strong performance, critical errors and some questionable officiating left Packers fans frustrated, particularly over one key missed call.
Key Play Sparks Controversy:
During the game, former Packers edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, now with the Lions, delivered a hit to quarterback Jordan Love’s head after an incomplete pass on third down. No flag was thrown, forcing the Packers to punt. On Saturday, the NFL fined Smith $6,722 for roughing the passer, admitting the hit violated league rules. Fans reacted with mixed emotions, noting that while the fine acknowledged the mistake, it didn’t help Green Bay during the game.
Fan Reactions:
- Wendell Ferreira (@wendellfp): “Not a penalty, but a fine…”
- Aaron ‘BIG D’ Davis (@ChillCheesehead): “Cool. Now next time throw the damn flag!!!!”
- Packerfan Total Access (@packers_access): “That’s odd…….so this was a foul that the refs completely ignored?”
- Dadrian (@KingDay__): “I would rather they call the damn penalty when it happened.”
The missed call was especially critical as it denied the Packers a potential first down in Lions territory, which could have shifted the game’s outcome.
Looking Ahead:
Green Bay now faces the challenge of regrouping as they push toward the playoffs. While officiating controversies can’t be undone, the Packers will need to focus on minimizing mistakes and playing clean football to secure their postseason ambitions.