Three takeaways from Packers’ win over Vikings in Week 17

Takeaways from the Packers’ win over the Vikings in Week 17.

You couldn’t ask for a better night of football for the Green Bay Packers.

Not only did victory over the division-rival Minnesota Vikings wrap up the NFC’s number one seed for the second straight season, but it also ended the visitors’ playoff hopes.

Let’s review Sunday’s win over the Vikings. What did we learn?

Matt LaFleur should be Coach of the Year

According to ESPN Stats & Info, the Packers are the first team in NFL history to win 13 games three seasons in a row. Matt LaFleur deserves a ton of credit.

LaFleur’s 39-9 record as head coach now means he has more wins than any head coach in history in their first three seasons, according to ESPN’s Field Yates. Since LaFleur took over, we’ve really seen something quite special in Green Bay.

Now think of the adversity the team has faced. The Aaron Rodgers offseason drama. A long list of injuries including going without four starting offensive linemen in recent weeks, as well as playing most of the year without Za’Darius Smith and Jaire Alexander.

Despite everything thrown at this team, LaFleur gets them ready to play, and ready to win.

When it comes to Coach of the Year voting, there should only be one winner.

Nobody can stop Aaron Rodgers-to-Davante Adams connection

Watching every Packers game, it becomes normal to see Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams work their magic. Adams beats his receiver and next thing, Rodgers has placed the ball perfectly into his hands. Seeing it every week, it’s easy to take it for granted, but it’s really an incredible connection.

And there’s nothing opposing defenses can do about it.

Adams had another dominant performance versus the Vikings, catching 11 passes for 136 yards and a touchdown.

Packers have perfect opportunity

The Packers were unable to make the most of home-field advantage a year ago, but here they are again. With the top seed wrapped up, the Packers can rest their starters over the next two weeks and get ready for the postseason. It’s a great chance for Rodgers to rest his toe.

Whether this really is the ‘Last Dance’ or not, what an opportunity this team now has.

Win two games at Lambeau Field and a trip to the Super Bowl is theirs.