The Green Bay Packers fell to 6-3 in the 2024 NFL season after losing to their division rival, the Detroit Lions, at Lambeau Field on Sunday afternoon.
A pivotal pick-six thrown by quarterback Jordan Love proved particularly detrimental for the Packers. On a second-and-2 from their own 38-yard line, Love targeted Josh Jacobs, but the pass was intercepted by Kerby Joseph, who returned it for a touchdown.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur remarked afterward that Love must “be smart with the football,” according to his statement on X. LaFleur noted he isn’t worried about Love’s efforts but emphasized the need for improved outcomes, as reported by The Star Tribune.
“He’s fighting, he’s competing, and we know we have to protect the football,” LaFleur stated. “But I have no doubts about his intentions. We just need to execute better.”
In the meantime, Love praised the Lions for their play while detailing his intentions during the interception.
“I saw (Jacobs) trying to get out and was looking to dump it down,” Love explained. “It was meant to be a check-down, but the pass didn’t go where I intended. They made a great play.”
Love and the Packers will be back in action in two weeks, facing another divisional opponent, the Chicago Bears, at Soldier Field on November 17.
The Packers dropped a divisional matchup against the Lions.
The Packers are now experiencing the reality of the Lions leading the NFC North—an unusual change in the division hierarchy. The Lions, currently 7-1 for the first time since 1956, have pushed the Packers down to third place in the standings.
Love completed 23 of 39 passes for 273 yards along with the aforementioned pick-six, while Jayden Reed amassed 113 yards on five receptions.
