Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged the possibility of making changes to his offensive line after it failed to protect quarterback Jordan Love during the team's season-opening loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The unit struggled significantly against Minnesota's pass rush, contributing to a fourth-quarter collapse where the Packers were outscored 22-0.
LaFleur emphasized the need for continuity on the offensive line, which was a concern throughout training camp due to injuries preventing projected starters from playing together. "Whatever we do, we need to make sure that we find continuity as quickly as possible," LaFleur said Monday. "I think that’s part of the problem, is we’ve had a lot of guys in and out of the lineup. I’m not making excuses. It is what it is. You’ve got to find a way to get it done."
The offensive line's struggles were a major factor in the Packers blowing a 22-10 lead, continuing a trend that plagued the team last season. This loss extended Green Bay's losing streak to six games, the longest since 1990-91.
Several players saw time on the offensive line due to injuries. Left guard Aaron Banks was inactive with a knee issue, and Donovan Jennings made his first career start in his place. Right guard Jacob Monk made his second career start. Right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele was limited in camp with a knee injury, and Jordan Morgan started at left tackle for only the second time in his career.
Love was sacked four times and pressured throughout the game. The Vikings' go-ahead touchdown drive in the fourth quarter was aided by a strip sack of Love and an interception thrown under pressure. "What’s disappointing is we had a few protection busts that absolutely should not and cannot happen," LaFleur stated.
The Packers also struggled in other areas. They committed 12 penalties and scored a touchdown on only one of their four red-zone possessions, while allowing Minnesota to score on all four of their trips inside the 20. Their rushing attack averaged just 3.1 yards per carry.
Despite the offensive line's difficulties, some players had notable performances. Wide receiver Christian Watson recorded six catches for 147 yards and two touchdowns. Receiver Matthew Golden set career highs with six catches for 95 yards. Cornerback Bo Melton contributed a 59-yard kickoff return and downed a punt at the 4-yard line, while cornerback Keisean Nixon had an interception and a partial sack.
Safety Javon Bullard was penalized twice on Minnesota's go-ahead touchdown drive, including a hit that knocked Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray out of the game and a penalty for illegal contact that negated a third-down sack.
The Packers are set to face the New York Jets on the road in their next game. The Jets are coming off a 23-10 victory over the Tennessee Titans.