The Green Bay Packers returned from their bye week with a 27-18 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, showcasing several strong performances, particularly from Josh Jacobs, who logged two rushing touchdowns, and Matthew Golden, who delivered an impressive three catches for 86 yards. The Packers’ defense also demonstrated its strength by containing quarterback Joe Flacco, who was making his debut for Cincinnati.
Despite the win, concerns about head coach Matt LaFleur’s approach resurfaced as the team allowed the Bengals to remain competitive when they should have dominated. This pattern of playing down to lesser opponents continues to frustrate both fans and analysts alike, as it contrasts sharply with the expectations surrounding a playoff contender like Green Bay.
Earlier in the season, the Packers displayed flashes of dominance, including a strong start capped by victories over the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders. However, recent outings have shown a troubling trend of mental lapses and missed opportunities. A notable instance was in Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns, where a series of mistakes, including a blocked field goal, led to a shocking 13-10 loss. The following week against the Dallas Cowboys also featured breakdowns that resulted in a 40-40 tie after the Packers had a commanding lead.
In the game against the Bengals, despite being favored by double digits, the Packers encountered difficulties in closing out the contest. They initially led 10-0 at halftime, but the Bengals capitalized on a long drive to score and keep the game within reach. Although Jacobs extended the lead to 17-7 early in the fourth quarter, Cincinnati’s response brought the score to 17-10, keeping momentum within grasp. A touchdown reception by Tucker Kraft gave Green Bay a bit of breathing room at 24-10, yet the Bengals matched with a quick touchdown to close the gap to 24-18.
This game highlighted the Packers’ ongoing struggle to maintain focus against inferior opponents, a challenge that could have serious implications for their playoff aspirations. With the NFC North race becoming increasingly competitive, the Packers must embrace a more consistent and serious approach to each game.
As the team continues to navigate the season, there remains cautious optimism that LaFleur can instill a sense of urgency within the locker room, which is essential for their aspirations toward the Super Bowl. Players like Love are aware of the deficiencies and may act as catalysts for change as the season progresses.