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A dramatic last-second blocked field goal saved the Packers from disaster against the Bears in Week 11, but now Chicago’s crying foul about how it happened.
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus isn’t taking the loss lying down. He’s sent video evidence to the NFL, claiming the Packers illegally hit his long snapper during Karl Brooks’ game-saving block of Cairo Santos’ 46-yard attempt.
And you know what? He might have a point.
Video replay shows the Packers’ rush definitely got into the Bears’ interior line early. But don’t expect Green Bay to lose any sleep over it – they needed this division win badly, and sometimes you’ve got to roll the dice.
The NFL might come out with a statement about the missed call, but it won’t change what matters: the W in Green Bay’s column.
Meanwhile, there’s some exciting news for Packers fans hoping for a spark in the running game. Rookie MarShawn Lloyd is back on the active roster after being sidelined.
Don’t get too excited just yet, though. We probably won’t see him suit up against the 49ers this Sunday. A more realistic return might be the Thanksgiving night showdown with Miami.
Lloyd’s expected to be Josh Jacobs’ backup when he returns, but he brings something different to the table. While he’s not the power runner Jacobs is, Lloyd’s got that explosive playmaking ability the Packers’ ground game has been missing.
Looking ahead to next season, the Packers are already eyeing ways to beef up their pass rush after trading Preston Smith. While young guys like Lukas Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbare will get their shot to impress, Green Bay’s probably going shopping in free agency too.
One interesting name to watch? Azeez Ojulari from the Giants. New York tried to trade him this season but couldn’t find the right deal. He’ll likely hit free agency, and Green Bay might try to repeat their success with former Giant Xavier McKinney by bringing Ojulari aboard.
The Packers’ defense has some work to do after struggling to get off the field against Chicago. Head coach Matt LaFleur wasn’t happy about those missed opportunities on third and fourth downs.
Things won’t get easier this week. They’re facing a 49ers team with a healthy Christian McCaffrey and a more polished passer in Brock Purdy.
Don’t be shocked if the Packers’ D gets more aggressive in the coming weeks. Playing it safe against Chicago nearly cost them – they might decide it’s time to dial up the pressure, even if it means risking some big plays.
