Ravens 41 Packers 24 Game Balls & Lame Calls
The Packers lose their third game in a row, as injuries mount into unprecedented territory.
By Kalani Jones
Heading into Saturday night's game, the Packers still had a sliver of hope that they could snatch the division crown out of the hands of the Chicago Bears. Instead, they'll have to wait for 2026. In fact, since the Packers were last division champs in 2021, every other team in the North has won the crown but the Packers. It's a hard reality, but it's the one we find ourselves in.
The Packers fall to Baltimore, in what will officially be the team's last home game of 2025. It was a bit of an odd affair, where I think it could be fair to say that game was simultaneously closer than the score might indicate, and the Packers were lucky to not have lost by more.
After cutting the score to 27-24 in the third quarter, the Packers would not score again, while the Ravens stacked another 14 points. Derrick Henry added to his illustrious hall of fame career with 216 yards and 4 touchdowns. Overall, the Ravens gained 307 yards on the ground, a culmination of the Packers' struggles on the ground all year long. Green Bay is lucky to have already locked up a playoff position following Detroit's loss on Thursday, although it may be possible that that security is what led to a half-hearted effort?
Game Balls
Malik Willis
I wish I could sit here and offer some hope that the Packers might be able to hold on to one of the best backup quarterbacks in the entire league this offseason, but it's not to be. Even before this game, there was tons of buzz around his future prospects around the league, but it still felt more in the vein of getting a contract to compete at starter. Now, doesn't it seem like some team out there is going to talk themselves into giving Willis the keys to their offense outright? Similar to the Justin Fields contract that the Jets awarded last offseason.
I think it's fair to say that Packers fans have developed a major soft spot for Willis, and hopefully he will remember his time in Green Bay fondly, as he sets off to a new team (hopefully in the AFC) next year.
The Receivers
For as effective as Willis was, the Green Bay receivers had an equally impressive performance on Saturday night. Christian Watson had his first 100 yard game since returning from injury, and I thought the group made tons of tough catches all over the field. Part of me was definitely hoping for Matthew Golden's first NFL touchdown to come at home this year, but it was not to be. Romeo Doubs also had a steady performance, catching all three of his targets, including the forty yard bomb that set the night off. Even Bo "Travis Hunter" Melton got in on the action.
All in all, the Packers had ten different players catch at least one ball, a classic performance from MLF's group.
Lame Calls
Rashan Gary
It's getting harder and harder to imagine Gary playing out the remainder of his contract in the Green and Gold, considering the $18 million dollar cap hit he will carry next year. Not only did he fail to register a sack for the ninth game in a row, but he was actually out snapped tonight by both Lukas Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbare on Saturday night. That's right folks, Gary was DE3 for the Packers. I'm obviously not privy to any insider information of Gary battiling an injury, but he was actually absent from the injury report all week long. Was he a late victim of the illness that has been making the rounds around the locker room this week? Maybe, but again, no word.
Instead, we can only go off of what we know, which is that Gary was essentially benched. He was not a top player for the Packers Saturday night, and the writing seems to be on the wall. I thought LVN had a great night for us, as well.
Aaron Banks
After a few weeks of solid to good play for Banks through the Packers divisional winning streak, Banks has once again regressed to being a liability along the line. He's not the only one (Sean Rhyan continuing to have troubles with snap timing is...not great). But as a whole, Banks is the veteran, and is the second highest paid lineman on the Packers starting five. He was brought in to be a foundational rock for the offense to lean on, and instead we've more often gotten nights like this, with constant penalties and pressures allowed. The Packers do have a potential out on this contract this offseason, but do they feel steady enough in being able to find a replacement? That answer might determine whether Banks is on the 2026 roster.
The Gameplan
A great game from Malik Willis aside, I thought that there were some aspects of the gameplan from Matt LaFleur that were a bit strange. I didn't really love the early decision to go for the fourth and one from our own 35-ish line, considering the field position that we gave up. It's hard to tell how the red zone offense has responded to a couple fo putrid performances in Denver and Chicago, but going 1-2 still isn't ideal.
The lack of a run game is head scratching. Giving Josh Jacobs a bit of a rest day is fine, considering the months long knee issue he's been battling, but they still only attempted seven rushes all game long. Why, oh why, is this the game where you decide to air the ball out so much? Why does MLF call his offense so differently for Malik WIllis than he does for his franchise QB?
Three and Out
-- Today's Phrase of the Game: "Helpless". That's what it felt like to watch Derrick Henry against this defense, who without their two best players on the defensive line (Parsons and Wyatt), have a giant target hanging above them. There might as well be giant neon arrows and letters in the middle of the defense that spell out "This way, please. We don't mind." You may have noticed that I didn't give out a Lame Call to the run D for the game, and the simple truth of the matter is that even that would have felt rather pointless. It is what it is, and what it is, is a disappointment.
The interior DL will be in need of some reinforcement over the offseason, with limited resources to do so. There's going to be a lot of discussion around whether cornerback or DT is a bigger need for the Packers this year. My opinion between the two would simply be a hearty "yes".
-- Besides actually winning the game, the Packers' second order of business was to try to get out of this game as unscathed as possible. They would fail on this front too, and the team's injury report has gone from "disastrous" to "catastrophic". Six more players were forced to leave the game, two via carts in Jordan Riley and Zanye Anderson. Malik Willis, Kamal Hadden, Nate Hobbs, and Dontayvion Wicks joined them.
In his post game press conference, MLF did say that Willis could have reentered the game, but re-aggravating that shoulder injury that has nagged him all week is noteworthy. His injury, and the injuries to the others, are only the latest in the chipping away to the depth chart that the Packers have been suffering of late. I know it's tempting to take aim at the team's strength and conditioning team (who, by the way, are still relatively new the the team after Green Bay cleaned house in 2024), but the blame should fall directly on the NFL itself for lengthening the season without adding another bye week to compensate. Until this is addressed, these late-season run of injuries are going to continue league wide.
-- The final game of the regular season is a short business trip to Minneapolis, with absolutely nothing at stake. No matter what, the Packers cannot even climb into the 6th seed slot. Get ready for the classic "rust vs rest" debate, as there is going to be plenty of it over the next week. It'll be up to the Packers to decide how to handle the situation, but I'd imagine that there is a lot of internal pressure to rest as many players as they can. On the other hand, how much does it matter to the team that they might be staring down entering the playoffs with a four game losing streak, should they lose to the Vikings next week. Or, should the Packers look to play Jordan Love a bit in this game, for the same reasons? Jalen Hurts was out for the last two regular season games before returning against the Packers last year, and (obviously) winning the whole thing. There's ton of precedent on both sides, but I'd imagine we are going to get what amounts to a fourth preseason game next week.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
Co-Owner of the thirteen time world champion Green Bay Packers. Sometimes I write about them. Follow me on Twitter at https://x.com/kjones_in_co and on Substack for film breakdowns!
__________________________
Comments (137)
KenEllis
December 28, 2025 at 07:09 am
Game Ball = Malik Willis
Lame Calls = Gutey, MLF, and Hafley
Sadly, Malik will not be in Green Bay next season when Gutey begins his 9th season as GM and MLF his 8th season as Head Coach.
Lare
December 28, 2025 at 08:01 am
Hopefully Willis can go to a team that can win a playoff game.
Brewcity_BearsFan
December 28, 2025 at 08:35 am
The teams that need a QB are, mostly, undesirable places to land.
The Jets? Willis's career will be over in 2 years or less.
The Dolphins? Dysfunction everywhere, and uncertainty about the coach.
The Browns? See my comment about the Jets.
Vikings? Looking more and more likely that McCarthy is going to get another year, and honestly he should.
Raiders? Honestly who knows what that team will do. Likely fire Carrol.
Colts and Cardinals both have potential.
Then there are the Steelers. They would be the best possible spot, outside of simply staying in GB. They are stability personified.
Willis deserves to get paid, but given the landscape, he may be better off getting that money from his current team.
Lare
December 28, 2025 at 09:21 am
"Willis deserves to get paid, but given the landscape, he may be better off getting that money from his current team."
Given what Gutekunst is over-paying for players like Love, Gary, Banks & Hobbs, the least he can do is pay big money to a deserving player like Willis.
Rebelgb
December 28, 2025 at 11:26 am
Colts have their starting QB.
Raiders are not firing Pete.
My opinion is he would do good to end up in Miami, Arizona or the Raiders.
Pittsburgh would be his best spot and man what he could do with that team!! Id have to go buy a Steelers Malik jersey :)
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 07:25 am
“The playcalling sucked.”
“Gutey sucks.”
“MLF is an idiot.”
“Cut all the players.”
“Fire everyone.”
“Time for a major housecleaning.”
Losses are frustrating, especially ones in which the team gets handled in both trenches. But Packer fans cannot claim to be the best in the NFL if, after every loss, they instantly turn into Eeyore or Chicken Little. Heck, some of them do that when the team trails 14-7 in the first half. I would hope we’d have a little better judgment and perspective.
Do the Packers need reinforcements? Of course. Are they the kind that’ll have to wait until the offseason? I think so, unless Vince Wilfork’s younger clone and Patrick Surtain’s twin brother are currently street free agents.
Another thing that sticks in my craw is the whole “YOU might be satisfied with making the playoffs, but I need Lombardi trophies.” When has ANYONE come here and said “playoffs are good enough”? I think the disagreement is whether or not we appreciate making the playoffs at all. Seems to me that if a fan says something like “Lots of teams would kill to trade places with Green Bay” it is taken to mean making the playoffs is the ultimate goal, with no desire or expectation of a SB trophy.
Nonsense. Poppycock.
I also realize nobody can tell anybody else how to be a fan. I am merely expressing fatigue with a very worn out script that is used far too often after every single loss.
Razer
December 28, 2025 at 07:59 am
I commend your enthusiasm when most of us are drowning in frustration. It is just hard to cheer when you are getting bulldozed and you are helpless to stop it. Maybe it is the realization that we are too weak in the foundational areas of a football team or the knowledge that we've seen this show before. Maybe cheering for the small successes will need to be good enough.
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 08:04 am
I too enjoy winning. I hate losing. But I also have a hard time with the same old, overused overreactions.
Oppy
December 28, 2025 at 02:07 pm
It's not popular with the tough, hard-nosed, high character, never-give-up, fight-to-the-death crowd when you call them out for being quivering chicken littles when the going actually gets tough.
Trust me on this one. Lol. The toughest talkers cry like babies when everything isn't pretty and easy.
Packers fans are the most any-way-the-wind-blows fans in the universe. Week to week they do an about face at the first sign of adversity.
The truth of the matter is, most of these people flapping their gums in these forums about winning and holding people accountable? Lombardi wouldn't have suffered them in his locker room because they lack any gumption whatsoever.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 03:58 pm
You've apparently never been to Indianapolis.
Oppy
December 28, 2025 at 06:41 pm
That scored a real LOL, SST!
murf7777
December 28, 2025 at 09:11 am
If you really think about it, most fan bases only occasionally get to feel the specific type of frustration that comes with being a perennial contender. I feel your pain. I couldn't have been more frustrated watching our DL/LB's get pushed around, especially in the first half.
That's because roughly two-thirds of the teams in the league typically have their season effectively over by mid-year and shift their focus away from a championship goal. The frustration of being "almost there, but yet so far away" from the ultimate prize is primarily reserved for the top third of the league.
In the past decade or so, only a select few organizations—mostly dominated by New England and Kansas City—have consistently managed to avoid this specific feeling by actually winning the Super Bowl.
murf7777
December 28, 2025 at 08:14 am
One has to wonder if some fans would genuinely prefer the perennial futility of a team like Cleveland. They start each season with great hope, only to realize by Week 8 that the playoffs are out of reach, and the new goal is a top-five draft pick.
That continuous, demoralizing cycle—a Sisyphean process that repeats year after year—is a familiar story. After all, that was the grim reality for our own Green Bay Packers during the 1970s and 80s.
While the goal is always the "big prize" that only one team can win annually, I simply love the fortune of consistently rooting for a winning team like the Packers. We are lucky to be a perennial contender.
That consistency doesn't prevent my frustration with bad play calls, coaching, or execution; it just offers the perspective that every single team has flaws, and most franchises have far more "warts" than Green Bay does. So firing everybody doesn’t make sense to me.
Even with this ugly defensive effort yesterday, I’m still hoping for a successful playoff run!
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 08:18 am
Hear, hear!
cpabandit
December 28, 2025 at 08:36 am
The playoff run will be a step and trip, not a run . They have a $55 million glass QB that spends too much time in street clothes during a game. Why Willis was not the starting QB since game one still baffles me after watching last night's game. I still don't get MLF calling another run play on 4th down after the first three plays they were stopped dead in their tracks. Just let Willis pass on 4th down. Opposing teams read MLF like a book and know the coming play before it is even called in. Honestly, and it's just my opinion which I am entitled to, the Packers are one and done come playoffs.
KenEllis
December 28, 2025 at 08:35 am
Might want to avoid social media, the internet, newspapers, etc. for the next few weeks, because if you are uncomfortable with the lack of cheerleading today after a third straight loss and a thorough ass kicking at Lambeau by a Raven team that will likely not even make the playoffs, I cannot imagine the reaction if the Bears shouldend the Packers season in 2 weeks.
Strat
December 28, 2025 at 10:34 am
Yours is worn out too.
GBPfaninMO
December 28, 2025 at 07:26 am
When the majority of the team was healthy they lost to the Cleveland Browns.....NUF SAID
murf7777
December 28, 2025 at 09:02 am
I’d disagree with your point. Most every successful or winning team loses to a bad team each year, so your point doesn’t hold water. For instance, Denver, Jax & Chicago lost to Titans, NE to Miami, Rams & 49’ers to AZ, Philly to the NYG and Buffalo to the Jets.
It’s a common trend throughout the league and not an anomaly.
NickPerry
December 28, 2025 at 07:31 am
"The interior DL will be in need of some reinforcement over the offseason, with limited resources to do so. There's going to be a lot of discussion around whether cornerback or DT is a bigger need for the Packers this year."
Every time this team plays you realize just how many holes and shortcomings the Packers have. Sadly, every time they play I ADD to the holes and shortcomings they have. I don't have any game balls other than Willis.
Lame...JUST Lame
Watching Rashon Gary is difficult. The Packers are paying that dude SO MUCH money. No sacks in 9 weeks now and he had ONE tackle for the game. HOW in the hell can a guy earning that much money only make one tackle on the night.
MLF...That call on 4th down should be the final straw and LaFleur should be fired. Not just because of the call, but because he continues to make the SAME type play calls every game.
Hafley... Jeff Hafley had no answers. IMO these last three weeks should have killed his chances at a HC gig and hushed up the talk.
Gute...Heading into an offseason soon the Packers need help at CB, OL, DL, RB to start. Too many holes, not enough money or picks.
Guam
December 28, 2025 at 08:06 am
"MLF...That call on 4th down should be the final straw and LaFleur should be fired."
As badly as the defense played last night, it is that 4th down play call that sticks out most in my mind. How does a veteran play caller and coach call a slow developing run play out of shotgun when they are facing a nine man short yardage front? Against that many defenders, there is going to be penetration and high risk to slow developing play. What was he thinking?????
It is play calls like that at crucial times that makes me wonder about LaFleur. I think he tries too hard to be an "offensive genius" and outsmarts himself. Call the simple play (QB sneak from under center) and make it work or just punt. But don't outsmart yourself and damage the team.
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 08:28 am
Or maybe that shotgun handoff includes a “kill” call depending on what the defense shows and Willis didn’t make the adjustment, I don’t know. I am open to the idea that I don’t know the whole story. But the result certainly sucked, no debate there.
Guam
December 28, 2025 at 08:54 am
Possible there was a kill call that Willis missed, but that was a bad play call for the situation (4th and inches - Lafleur has to know Baltimore will be in a short yardage defense) and should never have been the first choice play call anyway. Throw a quick pass from shotgun or line up under center for a QB sneak, but don't have a slow developing run play into a nine man front as your primary play call.
Rebelgb
December 28, 2025 at 11:30 am
You are 100% correct. MLF has mistakes like this game after game. Im not a MLF hater like some but I do think he should be further along in his coaching knowledge than he is. He seems to have stunted and is no longer growing as a coach.
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 04:45 pm
Wait…were the Ravens in a short yardage front and THEN MLF called his slow developing, shotgun run to Jacobs? Don’t DC’s always match personnel according to who’s in the offensive huddle? And that’s why 12 men in the offensive huddle is a penalty, right?
We all hate plays that don’t work, especially when we’ve seen them before. But I think there’s a mistake in your order of events.
Guam
December 29, 2025 at 07:21 am
When it is 4th and inches, LaFleur could pretty well assume a short yardage defense from the Ravens. MLF called that play knowing what defense the Ravens would play.
TKWorldWide
December 29, 2025 at 08:17 am
So if GB had lined up with one back and 4 wides, Balt still woulda been in a short yardage, goal line style front? I don’t think so.
murf7777
December 28, 2025 at 09:46 am
I didn't like going for it on 4th down. The only logic I can think of is that we couldn't stop their offense, so Mlf wanted to do everything possible to keep his offense going. I also didn't like the shotgun in that situation.
jannesbjornson
December 28, 2025 at 10:32 am
Not in your own territory. These impulsive/implosive play calls is where the Assistant HC has to just send the punting team on the field as a preventive measure. This guy needs to be an OC some other place. Time for a change.
Oppy
December 28, 2025 at 02:16 pm
This. I'm generally pretty favorable of MLF play design and, despite calls for his head, he generally calls a good game.
BUT, he is all emotion and no logic when it comes to deciding when to take shot plays or go for it on 4th down.
There doesn't seem to be any risk/reward analysis before he makes the call.. I can't believe people are talking about what play he called.. it's 4th down at your own 35 yard line on, what, the second drive of the game? It's not even a question. Punt the ball.
If you DO want to talk about play selection, how about this- why would you call on Josh Jacobs, a player who has been having chronic knee issues, and just showed you during that series of downs that his leg drive isn't what it normally is... It's just a bravado call all around.
Punt. the. ball.
GBPfaninMO
December 28, 2025 at 08:08 am
Well that about sums it up
NFLfan
December 28, 2025 at 08:30 am
Hafly is taking being contacted by other teams already through back channels and may be distracted.
murf7777
December 28, 2025 at 09:48 am
Based on the last 3 games, Hafley's phone is probably crickets. I like him, but is his defense that much or any better than his predecessors?
Packerpasty
December 28, 2025 at 10:25 am
not really...whats different?? Win a few games and they look good, lose a few they suck...same old...
13TimeChamps
December 28, 2025 at 11:13 am
Reading between those imaginary lines again I see. You never fail to entertain.
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:27 pm
NP, Absolutely agree concerning Hafley. I’m not positive any particular scheme would have made a difference, but some act like he’s Lombardi.
I recall last year in the loss vs the bears, where I witnessed perhaps the worst defensive calls ever made.
For those who want him as our headcoach, I’m not in that camp. …I’m good with him returning as the dcoord, but I don’t see any teams busting down the door for him as their head coach.
Savage57
December 28, 2025 at 07:40 am
Fortunately for the Packers, they'll be able to use their #1 pick on either a DT or a CB.
Wait...
GBPfaninMO
December 28, 2025 at 08:05 am
Do you really have faith that Gute would make good use of high draft picks cause I don't
dblbogey
December 28, 2025 at 08:28 am
Gute's 1st and 3rd round picks are always busts anyway.
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 09:13 am
Tucker Kraft would like a word.
jannesbjornson
December 28, 2025 at 11:18 am
Out of the Gate: Josh Jackson with a two pick , followed by Oren Burks at # 3, Ja'mon Moore with #4, JK Scott and MVS in Rd Five, Equan in Rd six followed by a guy named Looney. He hit on Jaire. Rodgers is still watching MVS drop his deep ball. The 2019 superbowl push was started unceremoniously with the Gary pick over any number of future ALL-PROs and Savage over Josh Jacobs...
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 11:36 am
All GMs make some bad picks. No GM bats a thousand.
Now I’d like you to compare Gute’s picks to every other GM over the same time period.
He’s not perfect, but he doesn’t suck, either.
jannesbjornson
December 28, 2025 at 12:05 pm
The QB at the time was a future Hall of Fame guy who needed some real players to get to the big game. One out of seven is a losing average.
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 12:42 pm
One out of seven what?
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:33 pm
We have a #1 pick—Parsons. He’s won three games for us. Who would would we get with the 20th pick?
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 07:40 am
Never, ever give up! (Show up)
*I bought a red, snappy little number of a dress (Talbots size 24) at a local thrift store. Put it on, hair sprayed my hair(s). Grabbed the K-tel mic and looked directly in the mirror.
Yes, I have 45-50 lbs of "holiday(s) weight", and I aint singing. Nope, I put the mic down (kept the dress on for far longer than I should - felt nice against my ankles).
Now, I tip my fringed-laced hat to the Vikes but am spending my time studying Chestor Marcolz TD "run" against da Bears. If he can do it with that never give up attitude...I, Ms Pantz Burp can as well.
Signing off from the hinterland.
Bearz going down,
Ms Pantz
*Now, knowing full well I may not be #2's type....since I got the dress on, will place a call to him and perform my best version of Santa Baby by Marilyn Monroe via Zoom. Or, if younger, think of Drew Barrymore on David Letterman'z desk. Me likey!
**I forgive ol #12 (now #8). I wish he wouldn't have shared the benefits of darkness retreats (there really are benefits by the way) with the Packer D members. He must of bought them all coupons with the expiration date of today before he left Green Bay. They had to use them before they expired, so I dont really blame them. But I wish they didn't go as a group.
***THANK YOU PEACOCK! I wasn't able to view this game but followed along the best I could per radio leaning in while clutching my Ovaltine's Decoder ring. Should have known the Ravens would win. Birdz of a (similar) feather...
****As mentioned, I decided to just listen to the game. The run D results were not good. Coach Hafley will have a better game plan against the Bears. My glass is hafley-full.
*****(thank goodness for more *s). Think good thoughts, let this one go, hug someone and yourself if you have long enough armz.
Razer
December 28, 2025 at 07:49 am
Malik Willis was a shining light on a dark night. I don't think this team loses anything with him in the game. I would say the Packers going forward could swap Love and Willis and not feel a difference - maybe even improve given Malik's mobility.
As for the team, well there is always next year. We have kind of painted ourselves in a corner given we are a draft and develop organization. It will be difficult to rebuild the O-line, D-line and secondary without ammo. If I were Ed Policy I would ask Gutekunst why we are so weak in these areas and what his plan is to get out of this mess - then I would walk him to the door.
Lare
December 28, 2025 at 08:00 am
We’ll see if Ed Policy is Mark Murphy or Bob Harlan.
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 08:08 am
Lare, lean in please, Ed Policy is Ed Policy.
PB
LambeauPlain
December 28, 2025 at 10:09 am
Will Ed's policy be performing the duties of President and CEO of the Packers or continue being the Acting GM and make all the major day to day decisions?
My feeling is he will return to the Harlan model and appoint a real GM. Whether it is Gutey or Ball or someone else we haven't thought of like Elliot Wolf.
Ed, the lifelong lawyer and Administrator has been quiet as a mouse since taking over for Acting GM Murphy who installed the Football Committee in 2018 as a "temporary" reporting structure. He made the change because Mike McCarthy complained he didn't have enough control. But then Murphy found he loved the limelight as Acting GM...8 years of "temporary" and counting.
Could be wrong, but so far, Policy does not seem to need the limelight and media attention.
I hope he sees the Football Committee structure has mired the team in "feet of clay". It encourages the status quo...so they win more regular season games than they lose and lose more playoff games than they win.
jannesbjornson
December 28, 2025 at 10:56 am
He would be better off trying to steal Veach from the Chiefs, or one of his acolytes. 1265 Lombardi Avenue needs a new direction. The 15 Years Plan will otherwise morph into the 70s Show.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:17 pm
The dreaded Grandma burn!
Guam
December 28, 2025 at 08:16 am
There are certainly legitimate criticisms of Gute as he has missed on too many high draft picks but I still believe the larger problem is LaFleur and much of his coaching staff. Special teams have been a major weakness throughout LaFleur's tenure; the offensive brain trust has repeatedly proven they don't make good in game adjustments if the initial plan fails; LaFleur's playcalling can sometimes be downright bizarre (see: 4th down and inches call last night); the development of the O-line has been suspect for several years due to playing guys out of position; and LaFleur's hires for assistant coaches have been mediocre to poor with one exception (Hafley).
For me, LaFluer needs to go before Gute does.
NFLfan
December 28, 2025 at 08:23 am
They should all go-Policy can't do it-wish I was wrong.
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 08:24 am
Thanks Guam. I am strating to question Gute's draft picks but (aside from the early results from recent signings, sans Parsons), he has a done a really good job of free agent singings, letting go certain players sooner than too late, etc...
And, none of us know really the conversations going on and what management is up against with the players preferences.
Coach LaF has some really good qualities but agree with the points you mentioned above.
In this case, I go with my gut for Gute.
I have a case of Guten tolerance,
Lil man tate
Guam
December 28, 2025 at 09:03 am
I have mixed feelings about Gute. He has done consistently well in rounds 4-7 and found some gems there. As you noted he has also done pretty well in free agency signings although this year's signings (Banks and Hobbs) are tarnishing that reputation just a bit. I admire the guts to try the Micah Parsons trade and that may yet work out well for the Packers. Parsons is an elite player and showed it until his injury.
Unfortunately his top of the draft picks have not turned out as well as hoped and that is a problem. My inclination is to give Gute more time, but with a new coach.
CanPackFan
December 28, 2025 at 01:13 pm
Tough call, LaFleur or Gutes? One has to go. This team needs a cultural makeover more so than any GB team of the past. And while I HATE listening to the same old, same old LaFleur excuses after every loss, he can only make do with what his GM gives him. This team has had a tremendous hole at both CB spots and yet Gutes did nothing. His FA signings were disastrous and no help for the DTs. I guess he decided he could take the rest of the season off after the Parsons signing...
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:20 pm
If it has to be one or the other keep Gutey and replace MLF. Although, who's available that's a sure fire improvement?
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:44 pm
Same for me—LaFluer can walk—Guty can stay.
murf7777
December 28, 2025 at 08:50 am
Razer, While the Packers were strictly "draft and develop" under Wolf and TT, that philosophy has clearly evolved under Gutekunst. If you look at the numbers from his tenure, the Packers likely rank in the top third of the league in free-agent spending. So, that would mean over 2/3rds of the teams draft and develop more than the Packers do.
When you factor in the massive Micah Parsons trade and his record-breaking contract, we probably move into the top five for total investment in non-drafted talent. Although Gutey has been largely successful with his external acquisitions, I still personally prefer the original Wolf/TT approach of building almost exclusively through the draft and developing our own talent from within.
As the saying goes, most people want and love the new, shiny penny—until they don't.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:23 pm
The player's union has made draft and develop impossible. During the season you get 1 padded practice per week until week 11, and after that you get one every other week including throughout the playoffs. During TC you can't do squat either. But hey, the players get to smoke pot ...
Lphill
December 28, 2025 at 08:08 am
Gary should be inactive next two final losses he needs to go .
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 08:10 am
No worry Lp, he has been inactive for the majority of the season.
PB
*Okay, off to buy another dress (thinking blue velvet). The stores are open now.....
See ya, byeeeeeee
KenEllis
December 28, 2025 at 08:43 am
Gary being inactive would shine a spotlight on the GM who drafted him 12th overall with a slew of better defensive players on the board (Burns, Lawrence, Simmons) and call into question the GM’s decision to reward Gary with a huge second contract.
So making Gary inactive will never happen.
Instead, we are going to get a bunch of puff pieces telling us how Gutey is great and needs a contract extension.
GBPfaninMO
December 28, 2025 at 08:11 am
GB should have checked about Carrington Valentine having allergies cause clearly he's allergic to tackling
GreenandBold
December 28, 2025 at 09:11 am
I have never seen a corner in the NFL get out of the way of tackling so much in my life. That stiff arm Henry gave him was embarrassing . I believe that was the second get out of my way stiff arm on him this season . He is worthless .
Brewcity_BearsFan
December 28, 2025 at 12:30 pm
"That stiff arm Henry gave him was embarrassing ."
This will come off as trolling, and I genuinely do not mean it that way, but someone should take a still photo of that stiff arm, and hang it in the Louvre.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:25 pm
Josh Jacobs stiff armed the honey badger right into retirement. This is no measure of a CB.
GreenandBold
December 28, 2025 at 05:54 pm
How about no tackling or coverage skills ? Does that measure up for CB skills .
SicSemperTyrannis
December 29, 2025 at 10:07 am
It's not a reasonable assessment. Which probably qualifies you to be on staff.
jannesbjornson
December 28, 2025 at 11:01 am
He seems contact averse, or just chickenshit.
fthisJack
December 28, 2025 at 08:19 am
Hard to believe that this team can't pick up less than a yard on 3rd and then 4th down. Of course it's always the same play..dive into a stone wall.
Packerpasty
December 28, 2025 at 10:30 am
of course...I knew it was coming, I was thinking "please dont just run into the pile and get nothing"....but they did...again..
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:48 pm
Right —what imagination—run straight at the Berlin Wall.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:27 pm
That play is called "the MLF special," as it is known well throughout the league.
NFLfan
December 28, 2025 at 08:19 am
90% of fans and many on this site do not know or refuse to believe that the Packers are built on a lie.
Murphy who power-grabbed in 2018, placed obedient men in positions they were not qualified for Gute, MLF and made another loyal lieutenant, Policy, "President" after he "retired". Murphy remains a power player in Titletown and Policy is no match-status quo will remain.
All this quibbling about Valentine, Love, Willis, et al, is irrelevant-the problem is Policy, who is a Titletown subordinate
of Murphy will not stand up to Murphy.
I would jump for joy if Policy grew 'some'
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 08:26 am
Thanks for sharing NFLfan. I honestly dont know why, but I want to challenge you to a game of Risk!
You ready? )getting my army ready and planning flank attacks(
Lil Pantz
NFLfan
December 28, 2025 at 10:00 am
I already play Risk and am pretty good at it.
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 11:15 am
Pretty good, meet awesome at it. :D
iamiz
December 29, 2025 at 07:15 am
Are you talking about the same Ed Policy who refused to commit to Murthy's GM and Head Coach unless they showed improvement? Cos that doesn't sound like a subordinate to me.
mrtundra
December 28, 2025 at 08:21 am
Game Balls to Willis, Watson and Reed and maybe Doubs.
Lame Calls to our OL, not blocking for our RBs. Our DL not getting any pressure and getting flagged for Offsides. To our pass rushers. They ought to change the name of that position, in GB. To the Defense, for not being able to stop the running QB, or Henry(see Hafley).
GreenandBold
December 28, 2025 at 09:14 am
It wasn’t “ not being able “ to stop the running of Henry . It’s not wanting or caring to stop the running of Henry and or Snoop.
egbertsouse
December 28, 2025 at 08:34 am
As long as we’re speaking of frustrations, I am frustrated by fans who see a team give up 307 yards on the ground and think the game was lost because of play calling. The game was lost because of the interior DL and Quay Walker. And they don’t even get a lame call.
jannesbjornson
December 28, 2025 at 11:08 am
They have to secure a real MLB who can plug the gaps, not run in the other direction, or stand in space, staring at the QB. I was hoping Hafley would go with a Four LB stack with Hopper. He hardly saw the field on a day the D was getting manhandled and Humiliated.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:30 pm
I think #7 is good but is no MLB.
CanPackFan
December 28, 2025 at 01:17 pm
And some of the idiot fans on this site think that we can win in the playoffs with "that defense" and NO RUNNING GAME.
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:52 pm
It seems like Quay is a bit overrated.
TKWorldWide
December 28, 2025 at 03:53 pm
NOW we can all agree on something. 👍
iamiz
December 29, 2025 at 07:19 am
Fine, but calling a mere 7 running plays was a huge factor as well.
iamiz
December 28, 2025 at 08:39 am
I'm of the ilk that even Vince Lombardi would be hard-pressed to win a game with his 4 best players (and another crucial one) unavailable.
GreenandBold
December 28, 2025 at 09:27 am
You’ve been watching MLF too long . A Lombardi coached team would’ve won regardless of the injuries. They had heart , guts and a will to win. And this should be the last time MLF and Lombardi appear in the same paragraph.
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 05:34 pm
Agree with you GreenandB—Lombardi and MLF should never be allowed/mentioned in the same conversation.
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:53 pm
I also believe the injuries have been understated.
sugarbair
December 28, 2025 at 08:42 am
Please Ed Policy, make the right call. Your dad first. Then let's get this team fixed.
NFLfan
December 28, 2025 at 10:03 am
Won't happen. Policy is a 13 year subordinate of Murphy. They both spend more time and energy on Titletown and Policy was chosen as he is easily controlled, like gute and MLF
barutanseijin
December 28, 2025 at 05:03 pm
That being the case, why are you still here? The situation is bleak due to the unique incompetence of the Packer brass and there is no hope of change due to their iron grip on the organization. Seems like it’s time for you to jump on another bandwagon.
iamiz
December 29, 2025 at 07:11 am
And you know this as fact how exactly?
stockholder
December 28, 2025 at 09:10 am
Game ball - Malik Willis 18-for 21
Lame calls- Henry tore them up.
Changing up the front 7 never happened.
No one got off blocks.. --
The Ravens praised their blocking.
And Henry only had to follow his lead block.
Another wasted season isn't what anybody wanted.
If these guys have anything left, they need to show it.
jannesbjornson
December 28, 2025 at 11:55 am
A three TE offense with a real Fullback is the lineup for a Power Running Game, not a hand-off from the shotgun/pistol sets with Gutey's O-Line incapable of pulling in space, with the exception of Zach Tom.
stockholder
December 28, 2025 at 06:17 pm
That should be Gute's later draft picks.
His first player should have been,
the best defensive player that drops.
Instead; his biggest mistake is taking the player thats rising.
You know how much I wanted jihad Campbell.
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:55 pm
Believe it not I’m extremely confident we beat the bears in the playoffs…but then we’re finished.
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 09:22 am
I still need therapy but cannot afford professional consulting. So I am back on this therapy board baby!
Willis plays smart and fast and smooth. Reminds me, gonna watch Good Willis Hunting again.
My driveway doesn't go all the way to the garage,
Burp
Lare
December 28, 2025 at 09:31 am
I guess my Lame Call goes out to anyone who honestly thought this team could win a Super Bowl.
canadapacker
December 28, 2025 at 09:33 am
Maybe the Jets might be a better team for you to hope for????
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 03:57 pm
I honestly believe, had we not lost Parsons, Kraft, and Wyatt, we are/were as good as anyone.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:33 pm
This team isn't what GB was in October.
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 07:02 pm
Exactly right Sic.
canadapacker
December 28, 2025 at 09:32 am
I know lots of people have high standards - but think of this ( and just consider all of the injured reserve and banged up players this year). Are the Packers on a list of the NFL teams who have not made the playoffs??? Ie Jets Falcons Panthers Raiders Cardinals? Next question where is the Pack on the list of current streaks of making the playoffs - tied for 4th . And despite going through a QB change lets get real when one considers this loss against a team with something real to play for and a team that doesnt match up well with us considering both our injuries and our defense.
Last night was sickening from some aspects but I just wonder what would happened - maybe I drank too much last night Butttt- if we had a dual quarterback scenario like Jaworski/ Cunningham and more recently like Brees/Hill.
So stop the fire Gutey fire Lafleur - should we bring in some new blood - yes - I think that the Oline coach has underperformed - as has our very expensive ST co-ordinator. But just look at all the other teams who change everything all the time.
GreenandBold
December 28, 2025 at 10:40 am
It’s called Titletown for a reason and it’s not because we just make the playoffs .
canadapacker
December 28, 2025 at 10:52 am
Come on - Been a Packers fan forever - and went through those bad years with Bart as the Head Coach. Titletown was coined in 1961 or so - when there were only 12 teams in the league - think it was before the Vikings entered the league. We have had some bad stretches and some good stretches but nothing as bad as way back then - the Favre/AR/Love era while not winning many Superbowls at least every year we are in the mix unlike so many other franchises.
Oppy
December 28, 2025 at 12:13 pm
whoa whoa whoa.
You're talking some heavy truths right now that are not going to jive with the locals and the lore.. it's dangerous territory to be objective in the den of passion that is sports fandom.
Btw, it was up to 14 in 1961, but I had to look that up :)
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:35 pm
I've always wondered, how does a QB as good as Bart Starr be so bad at coaching after years with Lombardi?
barutanseijin
December 28, 2025 at 05:10 pm
Coaching/GMing and QBing require two different skill sets. Bart had the QB skills but not the others.
13TimeChamps
December 28, 2025 at 11:37 am
The Saints never sniffed a Super Bowl with Taysom Hill.
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 04:00 pm
That’s a good point ‘13.
Swisch
December 28, 2025 at 09:45 am
It seems to all be going against the Packers at this point in the season.
I'm hopeful that they're going to turn it around.
No panic. Regroup, step up, and charge!
Oppy
December 28, 2025 at 12:59 pm
At halftime vs. Denver just two weeks ago, the nation was looking at the Packers and thinking, "They're getting primed for a potential super bowl run."
Then the wheels fell off and we're at 3 straight, ugly, losses.
It's not good, and people are reacting with overt emotion and very little thought.
The team, when healthy, is not that far off from greatness. There are definitely holes- primarily the the CB room and the interior of both the defensive and offensive line, but this team as a whole is right there.
This team as of today in its current state is in deep trouble.
MLF's decision to go for it on 4th down on our own 35 yard line early in this contest has me teetering on the "fire MLF" edge.
SicSemperTyrannis
December 28, 2025 at 04:39 pm
That one decision is understandable in the sense of realizing that falling behind the Ravens was not something GB could recover from. However, those specific calls on third and fourth down were the definition of insanity (doing the same things that haven't worked all season, while thinking it might get different results)
NFLfan
December 28, 2025 at 10:06 am
It will take 4 more years of Gute for fans to finally get fed up. There is too much hope in this failed enterprise-Fans should really do research as to how the 2018 power grab by Murphy has hobbled this team-putting obedient, unqualified men in GM/HC roles, assigning a 13 year subordinate the role of '"President."
Oppy
December 28, 2025 at 12:53 pm
I agree that Murphy did some good amount of damage in 2018, but who is the "13 year subordinate" of was given the role of "President"? Murphy was the president, his qualifications were absolutely fitting for the role, if anything, his hands-on sports management experience is what led him to disturb the power structure in 2018.
Gutekunst, like him or hate him, certainly had the qualifications to take a swing at the GM position.
I'm not sure who you're talking about is the 13 year subordinate named president.
NFLfan
December 28, 2025 at 11:32 pm
Policy
From the Jungle Room
December 28, 2025 at 10:10 am
Last night's game was a strange one from the onset....sure it's at home but the Lambeau mystic has been quite for several years now....with a playoff secured and a remote chance of improving our seeding, the Pack head into the game dealing with catastrophic injuries to key players, along with a flu virus. The lackluster performance, on the D side was dreadful. But not having all teams firing off at all cylinders seems to be the identity of the 2025 Packers. Talented yet confounding .......
I just don't know how to take this team or this season....so much hope early on (Parsons?!), a 2-0 start (Lions win!)...then suddenly.... a highly concerning snag in Cleveland followed by a giant cocktail of mixed results, frustrating ineptitude, questionable decisions, piles of key injuries and some glimmer of hope was always there......
Watching some other teams this time of year (and some Packer teams before), you can see/sense the momentum shift as they enter this last quarter of the regular season. The Seahawks, Patriots, Jags, Niners...even Bears.....are playing with a sky high confidence....something that the Packers have had at times but never have been able to hold on to it.....last night's game was a microcosm of this season....exciting but frustrating, encouraging yet disappointing....with one regular season game to play and a road warrior playoff schedule ahead, I don't see Packers risking anything next week, this team is running out of players. Whatever momentum that can possibly be manufactured will have to happen after the Vikings game....with most saying Round 1 could be vs. the Bears.....I hope that alone is enough to re-ignite this squad....bc they need something more than what they have now.....
Packerpasty
December 28, 2025 at 10:35 am
exactly...well said...and much of this is on the coaching...MLF, it seems to me, does not inspire a team to play its best...how inspiring is it to see your coach on the sidelines looking like he's befuddled and going to cry at any moment??
Starrbrite
December 28, 2025 at 04:06 pm
It seems as though games where a statement can be made, we fold like a napkin. Denver, Philly, Baltimore…why? I think it’s MLF.
Matt
December 28, 2025 at 10:28 am
I've been writing this for weeks. I don't see the quality of that defense many wanted to see during the season. Yes, there were strong moments, especially 1st halves, but there were also terrible ones, mostly 2nd halves (Dallas, Bears x2, Denver, Ravens) when we couldn't do anything except counting on miracle. It was Joe Barry defense again - bend and break while counting on offense to win the shootout. At this point Hafley is better than Barry in 2 aspects - 1. he has Parsons who chnges the game completely 2. he has more good moments. But still there is no consistency, no visible plan and without Parsons we seem to slide down. Inability of this defense is freightening. Every run is 5 yards plus. When we manage to push them to 3rd and long we still give it up with explosive play or stupid penalty. When it comes to pass, ok, there are not many explosive plays against us, by they methodically beat us 5-15 yards with off coverage all the time. I understand zone coverage but I don't think it should look like what we do.
I would like to add one thing more. The biggest enemy of an offense is a hurry and thin margin of error. Our so called defense success is when they stop opponent for 3 points and there are TDs most of the time. It puts the pressure on our offense which needs to take a risk all the time. Needing to score a TD every drive means that you will make costly mistakes - if you are not very very lucky today. We do not have top 5, top 10, not even decent nor average defense. Without Parsons and Wyatt it is bottom 5. They can't generate pressure and are bad in coverage. Cooper and McKinney are only real bright spots with 2-3 other guys doing their job.
GreenandBold
December 28, 2025 at 10:32 am
Valentine should go play Olympic flag football if he has the stones to go up and grab a flag .
albert999
December 28, 2025 at 10:41 am
That was a humbling night. Give Baltimore a ton of credit. They came here, and were in complete control the whole game," said LaFleur. "Unfortunately, it just wasn't up to our standard in regards to how we played, how we coached, and that's what happens."
SO SICK OF LASEWERS BULLSHIT
LambeauPlain
December 28, 2025 at 10:42 am
Ravens had a great game plan...literally plan to win on the road with a road (ground) attack.
They won it knowing the Packers could not match their trenches. So while Willis had a "Matt Flynn" evening, Harbaugh stuck to his war of infantry. The Packer Defense was ground pounded into exhaustion by the 2nd qtr (happens with great frequency now).
The OL was again a soft, finesse bunch. What did they have...one yard rushing by Jacobs at the half...against the Ravens 27th ranked Defense?
The Offense was forced to be completely one dimensional (Willis's arm and legs) and the Ravens continued to play soft zone and off man to keep the ball in front of them.
Last night was the most wide open the Packers receivers have been all year. Didn't matter. Harbaugh calculated the Ravens could give up some explosives but still control of the TOP, the game flow, and the scoreboard.
pantz_bURp
December 28, 2025 at 11:20 am
No worries boys and girls. This is all a ploy, a plan if you will, to get da Bears overconfident and to overlook the Packers in 2 weeks.
I almost feel giddy at the thought...
Pantz "doing the griddy" Burp
*I know enough to know enough that you are what you eat. Funny, I don't recall eating a genius for breakfast though...
Strat
December 28, 2025 at 11:23 am
"but the blame should fall directly on the NFL itself for lengthening the season without adding another bye week to compensate."
Then sitting players against the Vikings would be the additional bye week you want. 1-3 or 0-4 going into the playoffs isn't going to make a difference. This team isn't going to the Super Bowl, they never were. If they do, "Super" should be removed from the title. They fooled everyone winning the first two games, but neither of those teams they beat are in the playoffs. But the Packers managed to back into the playoffs, which will be another pacifier for many. Maybe they steal one...and done.
I didn't get to watch the game. NBC/Peacock can suck on their "Holiday gift." I actually listened to the stream from the Packers website, which was kind of cool, but even that conveyed just how bad they were.
GB's: Willis for sure. I hope he's the real deal for some team. Over the years you've seen QB's that do well off the bench, but can't handle the pressure of being the starter. I think he's the former. Watson is the real deal. Reed is too. So is Golden if they'll give him a real chance. That's a real good WR group.
LC's: Gary, yeah, I think he wants out, so show him the door. Banks (the 49ers are laughing at the Packers). No more Raiders. After they got Jacobs they should've stopped, unless they got Crosby. This organization as a whole. Getting Parsons made me think they might actually be serious about winning. They haven't proven anything.
harleycops
December 28, 2025 at 11:44 am
Where do I start?
DL = blown away, sieve, Gary watched Henry run by him
OL = comedy of errors, penalties, miscues
LB = did they show up?
DB = no-cover Valentine & co. on Henry's latest list of stiff-arms,
RB = no shows
WR = now they show up at yr's end, but kept us in the game
QB = miraculous under the circumstances of no help from OL/RB
PK = made FG's & kickoffs
Intensity = 0
Coaching = 0
Adjustments = 0
Injuries/health = many (except Watson)
Fan Support = 0 (after boos started)
MN game = no way Jose; skoaled by the 'Queens
Hope for playoff future = 1 and done
Off-season = roster overhaul, injured players rehab, dump non-productive players
Coaching staff = some stay, some go, others e.g. Bisaccia should go
GM = does Guter survive?
HC = is LaFleuzy on life-support?
Result = the weakest team in the playoffs, easy game for whoever plays them, players on the golf course near the Gulf, the Pacific, or Hawaii in less than 3 weeks!
CanPackFan
December 28, 2025 at 11:54 am
Agreed. This team - as it stands after this terrible excuse of a game - is the weakest in the playoffs. I won't listen to the excuses LaFleur will blather out this week. My biggest disappointment was how bad the Defense was with a team that was clearly one dimensional - dependant on the run! How could Hafley go LaFleur on us in such a critical game?
CanPackFan
December 28, 2025 at 11:46 am
Game ball - Willis.
Lame calls - (1) Allowing a team with a backup QB to run wild on ur defense. How could that not be anticipated? A loaded box was called for here, in the most obvious sense. Has Hafley gone LaFleur on us?
(2) there are so many holes on this team you have to wonder what a competent GM could have achieved with just a little effort? I suppose Gutey felt he could take the season off after the Parsons trade? No CBs, a shaky Oline and no good interior DTs. Those are major gaps that no competent GM would choose to ignore!
Since'61
December 28, 2025 at 12:54 pm
Game Balls: Willis, Watson, Doubs and Cooper
Lame Calls: MLF, OL and DL
Bad coaching, lost the LOS on both sides of the ball plus the defense looked intimidated by Henry. Terrible game by the Packers defense.
Thanks, Since '61
CanPackFan
December 28, 2025 at 01:30 pm
This team looked comfortable with their usual 7th seed playoff spot all gift wrapped for them from Christmas day! That was just a terrible effort on both sides of the LOS. The indifference is LaFleurs fault. The lack of the defenses anticipation of a heavy run game was Hafleys fault. Both coaches were to blame big time!
THESZOTMAN1
December 28, 2025 at 02:24 pm
I give Pack game ball for scoring both before and after halftime. Lame call was that Ravens snuck a TD between Malik's 1st TD scramble and McManus' FG. Get a stop there and .........
well, we still lose, but maybe not by 17.
The Szotman
Ferrari-Driver
December 29, 2025 at 09:45 am
Kalani, that was a tough read and when we are told the facts it's disappointing. I had the highest hopes for this season and it's just falling apart. On top of that we have to watch the Bears winning the division. Kalani you still get a thumb in spite of that less than heartwarming report.