The biggest reason the Packers didn’t make the playoffs:
The defense was stifling.Let’s face it: The Packers defense has been terrible the past few weeks. Opposing coaches find Joe Barry’s defense predictable and easy to dismantle. The Packers are near the bottom of the league in run defense, and their soft coverage and old-school schemes make it easy for opponents to give them passers when they need it.Non-elite quarterbacks like Tommy DeVito, Baker Mayfield and Bryce Young have enjoyed career performances against the Packers in recent weeks. The defense seems uncertain about the coaching staff and their plans. If the defense doesn’t play better, the offense needs to score more points to win the game.
The second reason the Packers are lacking:
They lack experienceThe Packers remain one of the youngest teams in the NFL. Many of these players have never played in the major leagues since turning pro in the playoffs.Young teams are also often unstable. The Packers need a three-game winning streak (they already have one) to make the playoffs. This may not be easy for an inexperienced football team. Will the pressure cause them to stumble or is this team too young to be nervous in these situations? If the former, the Packers are in trouble. If it’s the latter, you could be a dangerous opponent.
The third reason the Packers didn’t make the playoffs:
Injuries are still a factorAs the Packers get healthier, how many of their injured players will return and how effective will they be when they get on the field?We have seen rusty performances from Alexander and Stokes since their return. Musgrave has missed the last five games. Watson has missed the last three games and is back to full health after suffering another hamstring injury. Other injured players include quarterback De’Vondre Campbell, safety Darnell Savage and wide receivers Reed and Weeks, who missed time but may not return.The Packers need as many players healthy as possible if they want to win their final two games against their division rivals.
