Matt LaFleur should've listened to Green Bay Packers fans.
Per LaFleur, data suggests playing starters in the preseason can limit injuries in the regular season. That's all well and good, but only assuming they don't get hurt during the exhibition games. LaFleur's gamble has backfired, with quarterback Jordan Love suffering a thumb injury that requires surgery.
Fortunately, Love should return in time for Week 1, but his short-term absence will undoubtedly hurt the team's preparations for a monumental opener against the Detroit Lions. And all the Packers got out of it was 11 meaningless snaps from QB1.
Packers burned after rolling the dice with Jordan Love in the preseason
Love played 11 snaps, and his injury came on the last. It perfectly encapsulates the risk-reward of the preseason.
With pressure in his face on a 3rd-and-4, Love shifted to his right and then contemplated taking off to run for the first down, which is a part of his game he plans to utilize more this season. He then hesitated, but in the process, the pause resulted in a sack.
"I had a moment where I was trying to step up, get out of there, and they kind of collapsed on me," said Love. "Was trying to move around, but there was nothing really there. I don't think I had room to take off. One of those instances where I tried my best to get down right there."
Unlike on the practice field, where hitting the quarterback is forbidden, Love hit his thumb on a helmet and suffered an injury.
LaFleur is right. Playing in the preseason can limit injury risk down the line, and those reps can also help players find rhythm, timing, and confidence. But that's assuming players don't get hurt in the process.
Anthony Richardson's injury in the Indianapolis Colts' exhibition contest served as a harsh reminder. One hit or an awkward landing is all it takes. LaFleur went ahead with his starters anyway and paid the price.
Fortunately, unlike Jordy Nelson's season-ender in a preseason game a decade ago, Love shouldn't miss much time. He could return to practice next week, in some capacity at least, and will likely play in Week 1 against the Lions.
But he'll miss valuable reps in the process, again proving that the Packers' 11-snap gamble truly wasn't worth it.