3 takeaways from Packers’ NFC North-clinching win vs. Lions

2. Penalties, special teams errors continue

It didn’t all go to plan on Sunday, however. Penalties and special teams errors are still a major concern for the Packers.

Let’s first talk about the penalties. In total, Green Bay gave away 12 penalties in the game for 68 yards. That’s simply not good enough.

Five of them came on one defensive drive. Two came on third down, resulting in a new set of downs for the Lions. Matt LaFleur was clearly frustrated on the sideline, most notably after the Packers had 12 men on the field. These are avoidable mistakes and ultimately cost the Packers a touchdown. The Lions scored to pull within seven points late in the game.

There were a couple of positives on special teams. As mentioned earlier, Mason Crosby hit a 57-yard field goal and all of his extra-point tries. He even saved a touchdown with a tackle. JK Scott also had two punts for an average of 50.5 yards.

However, the fact Crosby even had to make a tackle says it all. Once again, the Packers gave up a big kickoff return. This time it was Jamal Agnew returning the kick 71 yards. Fortunately, Crosby was there to save the day.

The mistakes on defense and special teams are concerning. The Packers need to get this fixed before the playoffs begin.