After defeating the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the Green Bay Packers moved one step closer to the 2023 playoffs. However, head coach Matt LaFleur made it clear that they have yet to make the playoffs.
Again, the Packers are “close,” but they must finish the job against the Chicago Bears in Week 18 to complete their remarkable comeback this season.
With the win against the Vikings, the Packers ensured that they have complete control of their destiny. They now possess the final Wild Card spot in the NFC, and they can secure it by winning out. There’s just no other choice for them, though, as a loss would require them to hope that the other playoff aspirants lose as well.
LaFleur reminded his Packers of what they need to do following their dominant 33-10 win in Week 17, even highlighting that they were in the same situation in 2022, only to fail in the end.
“A lot of great performances tonight, but we also understand what we have in front of us, and it really means nothing unless we take care of business next week in Lambeau,” LaFleur said, via Sports Illustrated. “We were in a similar situation a year ago and couldn’t get it done. So, we know it’s going to be a tremendous challenge.”
Matt LaFleur also doesn’t want the Green Bay Packers to be complacent. They did beat the Chicago Bears in their Week 1 meeting this 2023 season, blowing them out 38-20. The head coach is also 9-0 in his career against the Bears, but he knows very well that every game is a new one.
“I think Chicago is as improved as any team when you look at them from Week 1 to where they are now. Obviously, they’ve done a really, really good job the last few weeks in particular, kind of gotten on a roll, so we know it’s going to be a great challenge,” LaFleur added.
“We know we’re going to get their best shot, and I’m sure they’d love nothing more than to knock us out of the playoffs.”
The Packers are on a roll, with Jordan Love on a tear offensively in the second half of the season. With that said, hopes are high he’ll be able to maintain his hot streak in the final game of the regular season.
As LaFleur noted, however, they need to keep the pedal to the metal in their playoff bid. It’s time for them to step up, and anything less is just unacceptable at this point.
Matt LaFleur, Jordan Love Relishing Playoff Chance With Green Bay Packers
Both Matt LaFleur and Jordan Love couldn’t hide their excitement for Week 18, though. They know that it will be a difficult challenge, but they are embracing it. The Green Bay Packers will also be playing at home on Lambeau Field, which should make it extra special.
“I’m really excited for next Sunday vs. the Chicago Bears at home,” LaFleur shared, via Matt Schneidman of The Athletic.
As for Love, he’s really relishing the chance to make the playoffs. It’s his first year as a full-time starter, and making the postseason would definitely be an immense achievement if he’s able to do it.
“It means a lot [to be in playoff position]. This is exactly the situation we’ve been working for all offseason, all through training camp to get ready to put ourselves in a position to make the playoffs,” Love furthered.
The challenge is on the Packers to deliver in front of their home fans. But sure enough, they will be confident heading to the game. It’s certainly great to see LaFleur keep his team in check and have them focused on their ultimate goal.
