The Green Bay Packers lost to the Denver Broncos, suffering a Micah Parsons injury, among others.
Week 15 was a tale of two halves, and the complete 180 has fans of the Green Bay Packers not knowing what to think. Entering the week, there was a chance the Packers could win and claim the spot seed in the NFC after defeating the top team in the AFC. Not only did Green Bay lose to the Denver Broncos, but the injuries suffered will severely impact the future.
One of the biggest headlines of NFL Sunday was the Micah Parsons injury. However, the Packers also suffered injuries to Christian Watson, Zach Tom, Quay Walker, and more.
Green Bay Packers Injuries: Micah Parsons Injury and More
Yes, the Green Bay Packers wanted to win this game and make a run at the top seed in the NFC standings. However, the top goal was to remain healthy, since next week’s matchup against the Chicago Bears is extremely important to winning the NFC North and possibly hosting a playoff game.
Well, not only did the Packers lose on the scoreboard, but the injuries suffered were devastating. Christian Watson, Zach Tom, Quay Walker, and Micah Parsons are key players who were injured in this game.
On the first play of a third-quarter drive, Jordan Love threw a questionable ball downfield, targeting Christian Watson against the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Pat Surtain. It was a bad decision that was made worse by a bad pass. Watson had to dive for the pass, resulting in the wide receiver landing on his shoulder. It was initially called a chest injury, but it very well could be a broken collarbone. The pass was also intercepted, shifting the game’s momentum to the Broncos.
Zach Tom and Quay Walker have fought through injuries all season long, and the road doesn’t get any easier. They are at risk of missing Week 16, and with a first-round bye now unlikely, it means there is no week off to rest.
Of course, the Micah Parsons injury was the most severe of them all. He has been a game-changer and game-wrecker for the Green Bay Packers. Unfortunately, Parsons suffered a non-contact knee injury late in the game. It is expected to be a torn ACL. Not only will this end his season prematurely, but it could impact his start next year. As for the Packers’ defense, they will have to find a pass rush without him, and multiple players must step up.
Packers Playoff Chances Following Loss to Broncos
It cannot be overstated how different the mindset of Packers nation was at halftime of this game versus the fourth quarter. Green Bay had a chance to beat the top team in the AFC, claim the top seed in the NFC, and run the table all the way to the Super Bowl. Now, some are worried about the Packers’ playoff chances.
Now, Green Bay should still make the postseason, but it isn’t guaranteed. Next week, a win against the Chicago Bears could clinch the playoffs and nearly clinch the division. Winning the NFC North would guarantee a home playoff game, which is very important.
However, a loss to the Bears does not end the season. Green Bay would be searching for a win against the Baltimore Ravens or the Minnesota Vikings in order to reach the postseason.
While a win over the Denver Broncos this week would not have meant much in terms of the Packers’ playoff standings, a loss was impactful. Green Bay fell from the second seed all the way down to the seventh seed. Remember, only seven teams make the playoffs. A win over Chicago should ensure a top-four seed, but entering the postseason ranking seventh would be a nightmare. This would guarantee the Packers are always on the road and face the top seed remaining.
While the vibes are all “doom and gloom” in Packers Nation right now, remember, the season is not done. A playoff berth is still likely, so give up on this team, and don’t overreact to anything.
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