The Green Bay Packers entered 2023 with Super Bowl aspirations, but midway through the season, they’re far from the NFC North powerhouse many expected. With Jordan Love leading the offense and a revamped supporting cast, why isn’t Green Bay dominating? Let’s dive into the Packers’ struggles, analyze Benjamin Solak’s Week 9 NFL insights, and play a round of Trade Deadline Bingo.
The Packers’ Offensive Struggles
Green Bay’s biggest issue? A lack of offensive identity. Jordan Love has moments of brilliance (Week 3 vs. Saints) but battles inconsistency, with a 58.7% completion rate and an 11:8 TD-INT ratio. Growing pains were expected, but the supporting cast isn’t helping:
- Weak Ground Game: Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon have been injured or ineffective, leaving the Packers 20th in rushing yards per game.
- Youthful WRs: Christian Watson and Jayden Reed flash potential but lack the polish to carry the passing game.
Defensive Mediocrity
The Packers’ defense isn’t bad—but it’s not elite either. Key concerns:
- Pass Rush Woes: Tied for 22nd in sacks (18), the front seven isn’t disrupting QBs enough.
- Scheme Limitations: DC Joe Barry’s rigid Cover-2 looks are exploited by play-action (see: Lions, Vikings).
Benjamin Solak’s Week 9 Lessons
NFL analyst Benjamin Solak highlighted trends that explain Green Bay’s slide:
- Young Offenses Take Time – Love and his receivers need patience.
- Defensive Adjustments Matter – Barry’s unwillingness to adapt hurts.
- The NFC Is Up for Grabs – At 3-5, the Packers aren’t out of the wild-card race.
Trade Deadline Bingo: Missed Opportunities?
Green Bay stood pat at the deadline, but here’s what could’ve helped:
✅ Veteran WR (e.g., Jerry Jeudy) – Steady hands for Love.
✅ Elite Pass Rusher (e.g., Danielle Hunter) – Fix the sack drought.
✅ O-Line Depth – Bakhtiari’s health is always a gamble.
GM Brian Gutekunst chose development over short-term fixes. Smart or shortsighted?
Can the Packers Turn It Around?
The path isn’t hopeless:
- Love’s Growth: Can he mirror Rodgers’ Year 1 starter jump?
- Health & Play-Calling: Jones returning to form and LaFleur’s creativity are keys.
- Defensive Spark: More turnovers and pressure could salvage the season.
In a shaky NFC, Green Bay isn’t dead yet—but the margin for error is razor-thin.
