GREEN BAY, Wis. — An 0-2 start was staring the Packers in the face Sunday in New Jersey. They were down 10 points in the fourth quarter to a Jets team that is improved, but went just 3-14 last season.
The Packers haven’t been 0-2 in 20 years, and if you start 0-2, history tells you that you have only a 14% chance of making the playoffs.
The Packers rallied to win 20-17 in overtime.
Jonathan Gannon’s defense, especially Lukas Van Ness, did its part to keep the Packers in it. 1-1 never looked so good.
All three phases can claim to be a part of the victory. Gannon’s defense got a big 4th and one stop late in regulation. Special teams provided an enormous 66 yard punt return by Skyy Moore and the game-winning 26-yard field goal by Trey Smack in overtime.
Jordan Love and the Packers’ offense, which sputtered most of the day, came up with just enough big plays when they were needed the most.
Nobody is thinking the Packers have everything figured out. Penalties (14 accepted on Sunday) continue to plague this team. The injuries to two key offensive players, Jayden Reed and Zach Bako-Bewele, are both expected to be long term.
Still, it sure is nice to come to Lambeau Field looking to win a record 14th straight home opener Thursday night against the Falcons after a thrilling victory instead of a demoralizing loss.