The Green Bay Packers looked like they could be Super Bowl favorites in the first two weeks of the season. After the late offseason blockbuster trade to acquire Micah Parsons, the Packers were able to beat two NFC contenders -- the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders -- in convincing fashion.
All of the positives vibes came crashing down in Week 3 as they suffered a 13-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns -- after leading 10-0 with under four minutes left in the game. While there was plenty of attention on their Sunday Night Football matchup with the Dallas Cowboys due to Parsons returning to AT&T Stadium, Green Bay was unable to help him get revenge on his former team.
The Packers defense had, by far, their worst showing of the season as they allowed a season-high 40 points and 436 yards. The unit was labeled as a Week 4 loser following the rough performance.
Packers defense called out following their Week 4 letdown
Over the first three weeks of the season, the Packers defense was a major strength of the team. The unit allowed just 14.7 points and 232.3 yards per game, ranking first and third in the league, respectively. After their tough showing in Week 4, Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski called the unit out, writing:
"Do you remember when the Packers stifled the Detroit Lions' and Washington Commanders' offenses, holding those teams to fewer than 19 points? Many thought Parsons propelled Green Bay's defensive unit to one of the league's best. Well, the Packers held the Cleveland Browns to 10 points, but they couldn't stop them from moving the ball 20 yards to kick a game-winning field goal in Week 3. Green Bay gave up five touchdowns to the Cowboys, who were without Lamb, guard Tyler Booker and center Cooper Beebe. Green Bay has a high-end defensive unit, but it's fair to ask how strong it is on the road in crucial moments."
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Green Bay's 40 points allowed were nearly as much as they allowed over the first three weeks -- 44. While the unit is unlikely to repeat the performance they had in Week 4, they must show more consistency in order for the team to reach their full potential as Super Bowl contenders.
The Packers will have plenty of time to fix their defensive woes as they have a bye in Week 5. They will not face another top-15 scoring offense until Week 10 when the Philadelphia Eagles come to Lambeau Field.