Despite a tough 34-26 loss to the Denver Broncos that snapped their three-game win streak, the Green Bay Packers are still very much in the thick of the NFC playoff race. But the defeat came with more than just scoreboard pain - the Packers lost their defensive anchor, Micah Parsons, to a torn ACL, ending his season and dealing a major blow to a unit that’s relied heavily on his versatility and leadership.
Still, even with that setback and a slip to 9-4-1 on the season, Green Bay remains in solid position heading into the final stretch. The loss knocked them out of first place in the NFC North, as the Bears surged ahead at 10-4 following a dominant 31-3 win over the Browns. But with two games to go, the division - and a playoff berth - are still very much in play.
Here’s how the NFC playoff picture looks after Seattle’s Thursday night win over the Rams:
- Seattle Seahawks (12-3) - NFC West leaders
- Chicago Bears (10-4) - NFC North leaders
- Philadelphia Eagles (9-5) - NFC East leaders
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7) - NFC South leaders
- Los Angeles Rams (11-4) - Wild card, 2nd in NFC West
- San Francisco 49ers (10-4) - Wild card, 3rd in NFC West
- Green Bay Packers (9-4-1) - Wild card, 2nd in NFC North
- Detroit Lions (8-6) - Just outside the playoff cut, 3rd in NFC North
- Carolina Panthers (7-7) - 2nd in NFC South
- Dallas Cowboys (6-7-1) - 2nd in NFC East
Packers Can Punch Their Ticket in Week 16 - With Some Help
The Packers head to Chicago this weekend for a prime-time showdown that carries massive playoff implications. Not only is it a chance to reclaim first place in the division, but it’s also the only scenario in which Green Bay can clinch a playoff spot this week. The math is simple: beat the Bears on Saturday night, and hope the Lions fall to the Steelers on Sunday.
Green Bay already topped Chicago two weeks ago in a 28-21 win that showcased their offensive balance and defensive grit. A season sweep would not only give them the head-to-head tiebreaker but also put them back in control of the NFC North heading into the final week.
But here’s where things get even more interesting - the Lions’ opponent this week? None other than Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Rodgers, the Lions, and a Bit of Poetic Payback
If you’re a Packers fan, you probably don’t need a reminder of how Rodgers’ last game in green and gold ended. But let’s revisit it anyway, because it adds some real emotional weight to Sunday’s matchup.
Back in Week 18 of the 2022 season, Green Bay had a win-and-in scenario against Detroit. A victory would’ve sent them to the playoffs at 9-8.
Instead, the Lions spoiled the party at Lambeau, winning 20-16 and ending Rodgers’ era in Green Bay on a sour note. His final pass in a Packers uniform?
An interception on what could’ve been a game-winning drive.
Now, nearly two years later, Rodgers has a shot at a little revenge - and in doing so, he could help his old team reach the playoffs for a third straight season. It’s the kind of full-circle moment only the NFL could script.
And let’s be honest: Rodgers doesn’t forget games like that. He’s wired to compete, and you can bet he’ll be dialed in with a chance to deal a major blow to the team that closed the book on his Packers career.
What’s at Stake This Weekend
For Green Bay, the path is clear - beat the Bears, and root for Rodgers to take care of business against Detroit. That combo locks in a playoff berth and sets up a potential Week 17 showdown for the division title.
Even if the Packers fall short on Saturday, a Lions loss still helps their cause. But the cleanest route is to take care of business themselves and not leave anything to chance.
So, buckle up, Packers fans. It’s shaping up to be a drama-filled weekend with postseason implications, bitter rivalries, and some poetic symmetry thrown in for good measure. Whether it’s in Soldier Field or Heinz Field, Green Bay’s playoff hopes are riding on two games - and one familiar face.