Packers-Lions Officiating Debate & NFC North Outlook

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Questionable Calls, Missed Opportunities and a Tight NFC North Race

The officiating was once again a major talking point following Detroit’s win over Green Bay. Some of the calls came at crucial moments and drew disbelief from players, coaches and pundits, but the officials were not the reason Green Bay lost.

The Packers struggled to hold on to the ball, while kicker Smack missed field-goal attempts from 26 and 40 yards that could have put the game out of reach. Green Bay also committed several penalties late as Detroit continued moving closer.

Detroit had its own questionable decisions. Campbell repeatedly went for it on fourth down, including a fourth-and-five situation in which a field goal was available. Gibbs also could have run into the end zone late, but the Lions instead kneeled before kicking the final field goal. Detroit still deserved to win, although the three-point result could have been wider.

Green Bay was the pick of the week at plus 3.5 and covered, but the result felt fortunate. The performance also reinforced the view that Green Bay may be better than Detroit, despite the Lions winning the game. Both teams were projected to finish around 9-8 or 10-7, while Chicago was identified as the most dangerous team in the division and possibly its best team at this stage.

That could set up a late-season meeting in which Detroit or Green Bay is competing for a playoff spot with both teams carrying similar records.

For the Packers, getting Jacobs back should provide a boost. His ability in the passing game has always made him unique, even though he dropped a touchdown in this game. The running aspect may take more time, but he gives Green Bay another weapon out of the backfield.

Green Bay’s defense was also impressive. The Packers made Jamar Gibbs work for everything and forced two turnovers that led to points. The unit is also expected to regain one of the game’s best defensive players at some point.

The teams combined for 236 yards of offense in the first quarter, the most in a game this year, yet the final result still did not come close to the over.