by Jonathan Storti
The Green Bay Packers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 27-14 in one of the sloppiest Monday night games ever. The two teams combined for seven turnovers and over 310 penalty yards, most coming in the form of pass interference. Aaron Rodgers led the Pack to victory by throwing three touchdown passes, two connecting with tight end Jermichael Finley. The victory strengthened Green Bay’s hold on an NFC wild card position. Conversely Baltimore’s loss drops them a game behind in the AFC wildcard chase. Joe Flacco was unable to find rhythm throughout the game as he threw three interceptions, none more gut-wrenching than his 4th quarter turnover at the Packer 4-yard line. The careless play did not allow either team to set a tone, but the 4th quarter proved to be decisive as the Packers were able to make game winning plays. Green Bay had been swimming in the wake left by Brett Favre’s splash in Minnesota, but their solid play in the last few weeks is impressive. Unlike the Vikings who had been feeding off weaker opponents, the Packers have played a tougher schedule. A solid defense and a young quarterback on the rise have the Pack going in the right direction.
While events seem to be transpiring well for Green Bay the opposite can be seen in the Baltimore Ravens. Their once electric offense has sputtered in the last week and tough opponents are still on the horizon. Baltimore has shown lapses in defenses, especially in the secondary during the last month. The surprising de-activation of All-Pro safety Ed Reed certainly had an effect on tonight’s game. Last week’s strong showing against the Steelers doesn’t appear as laudable after Pittsburgh’s disastrous loss to the Raiders. The poor play of the Ravens defense, a staple the past decade, may be the root of the teams decline. Ray Lewis is an all-time great linebacker, but even he is not impervious to Father Time. If the Ravens want to turnaround their season and make the playoffs their younger players on defense will have to step up. This was a crucial game for both teams, as the fight for a precious playoff position only intensifies from here. Playoff teams step up in December; any faltering or missteps may cost a team a chance at the postseason. Neither of these teams is assured of anything as the next few weeks will sort of the pretenders and the contenders.
“Absolutely nothing to do with this game – but this football commercial is one of my favs so I just added it for kicks….” Football Grrl
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