6 biggest takeaways from Packers’ overtime win vs. Patriots in Week 4

Packers’ run defense remains an issue

While Green Bay’s pass rush continues to deliver, the run defense remains an issue. The Packers have been unable to stop the run in three of their four games this season.

The hope was they had turned a corner last week after limiting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to just 34 yards on the ground. However, the Patriots ran the ball with success all afternoon.

The worst part? The Packers knew the Patriots would run the ball. They had third-string quarterback Bailey Zappe out there for most of the game after Brian Hoyer suffered an injury.

Despite that, the Patriots continued to pick up yards on the ground. New England ran for 167 yards and a touchdown on 33 attempts, averaging 5.1 yards per carry.

To the defense’s credit, they stepped up when it mattered the most. Needing only a field goal for the win in overtime, the Patriots started their drive with excellent field position around midfield.

The Packers couldn’t be too conservative as the Patriots were nearing field goal range. Joe Barry’s defense held the Patriots to just five rushing yards from three plays, forcing a punt.

But the run defense remains a concern. Even when the Packers know a run is coming, they struggle to stop it.