After dropping two games in a row, the Green Bay Packers were able to get back into the win column in Week 16. They went on the road and defeated the Carolina Panthers, 33-30, to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The Packers will stay on the road in Week 17, traveling to face their NFC North rivals, the Minnesota Vikings. This is a huge game as both teams enter the contest with 7-8 records. The loser will effectively be eliminated from the playoff race.
What can we expect to see from Green Bay? A former NFL executive who spoke to NFL Analysis Network believes the Packers will put forth a dominant performance against the Vikings. A strong start out of the gate will lead them to victory, in the opinion of the former executive.
NFL News & Rumors: Minnesota Vikings, NFL Playoffs, Green Bay Packers Updates
“I think Green Bay comes out and jumps on the Vikings early. They’re still very much alive in the playoff race. Personally, I think the Packers dominate this game and move one step closer to the postseason.”
In the first meeting of the 2023 season, Minnesota came away with a 24-10 victory. But, this isn’t anywhere near the same Green Bay team that took the field in Week 8, and quite frankly, the Vikings aren’t close to the same either.
Minnesota is without numerous key contributors as starting quarterback Kirk Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury against the Packers. Tight end T.J. Hockenson was lost for the season to a torn ACL and MCL last week against the Detroit Lions, as was defensive end D.J. Wonnum.
The Packers have found their stride offensively since that first meeting as well. Jordan Love has been leading the way and producing despite missing wide receiver Christian Watson again. The return of running back Aaron Jones paid dividends last week as he remains a difference-maker for the Green Bay offense.
NFL News & Rumors: Minnesota Vikings, NFL Playoffs, Green Bay Packers Updates
What this game will come down to for the Packers is their defense. They have been shaky on that side of the ball, unable to get stops when the team needs them most consistently. Giving up 30 points to the Panthers encompasses how much of a struggle it has been.
Expect a hard-fought, competitive game with both teams fighting for their playoff lives. This one could very well go right down to the wire as the Packers and Vikings know what is at stake should they lose the game.
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