Predicting the rest of the 2023 Packers schedule after Thanksgiving

Week 17 at Minnesota Vikings

Unfortunately, the Packers' winning run ends in a crucial game against the Vikings. Green Bay has found life difficult at U.S. Bank Stadium, winning there only twice on seven visits, one of which was with zero fans.

The Vikings are without Kirk Cousins, but All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson should be back in time for this game.

It will be a closer game than the Vikings' two-touchdown win at Lambeau Field, but the Packers lose a close one to dent their playoff hopes.

Prediction: Minnesota 21, Green Bay 17 (8-8)

Week 18 vs. Chicago Bears

But Green Bay finishes the season strong. The Jordan Love era began with a dominant victory over the Chicago Bears. They end Love's first year as the starter with another comfortable win over the Bears.

Chicago's defense is allowing 26 points per game. The Bears' biggest strength is their ability to run the football, but an early Packers lead can take that away.

Is a win enough for a playoff berth? Only time will tell, but the Packers end the first year of the Love era by defeating the Bears at Lambeau. Green Bay enters the offseason with optimism after winning six of its final eight games. A strong offseason could make the Packers contenders in 2024.

Prediction: Green Bay 31, Chicago 21 (9-8)

More Packers news and analysis