Green Bay defense offsets weak running game

The Green Bay Packers allowed only 73 points in their last five games. That total is the lowest five-game defensive stretch for the team since 2021. In that year, Green Bay finished first in the NFC for playoff seeding.

The Packers currently hold a 5-3 record. They have won four of their last five contests. Despite this recent success, the team has yet to establish a consistent ground game. The offense ranks last in the NFL for rushing yards.

On Thursday night, Green Bay beat the Carolina Panthers 27-19. The Panthers trailed by 17 points in the third quarter. They managed to close the gap but could not complete a comeback. The Packers' defense prevented a final surge.

The defensive depth allowed Green Bay to absorb recent injuries. Linebacker Edgerrin Cooper tore his Achilles tendon on October 4. He is out for the season. Linebacker Zaire Franklin has missed two straight games with a knee injury.

Ty'Ron Hopper stepped in at linebacker on Thursday. He recorded a sack and an interception. That performance earned him the team's ball of the game. The unit has maintained its aggressive approach despite missing key starters.

Safety Javon Bullard praised the group's willingness to do dirty work. He cited the coaching staff's role in developing the players. Safety Evan Williams described the roster as having many dogs. He noted that every player is ready to step up.

The new defensive coordinator, Jonathan Gannon, continues to press opponents. He took over after Jeff Hafley left to become the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. Gannon's scheme relies on speed and pressure. The unit held Carolina to 5 of 18 on third down.

The Packers' offensive line was missing center Sean Rhyan and guard Travis Glover. Both players were out with injuries. Quarterback Jordan Love was not sacked in the contest. The team faces a difficult path in the NFC North. Every team in the division holds a record above .500.