The Green Bay Packers, with an 11-4 record, are aiming to continue their strong play as they head into the NFL Playoffs. On Sunday, they face the 13-2 Minnesota Vikings, who defeated the Packers 31-29 earlier this season at Lambeau Field. The Packers are looking for revenge as the season nears its end.
The first matchup featured a less-than-100% Jordan Love, who was returning from a two-game absence due to a sprained MCL. He threw three interceptions, although he nearly led the Packers to a comeback in the fourth quarter. With Love now fully healthy, the Packers expect a different outcome, though Josh Jacobs will remain the primary focus of the offense.
Unfortunately, the Packers are uncertain about the status of some key players as the Vikings game could affect their playoff seeding.
The Packers’ injury report brought some good news. Despite not practicing due to the Christmas holiday, the team provided injury estimates for their players. Notably, cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee), and defensive backs Corey Ballentine (knee) and Javon Bullard (ankle) were expected to be either full or limited participants. Bullard, who had been sidelined since Green Bay’s loss to Detroit on December 5, was back at practice for the first time.
However, there was also bad news. Wide receiver Christian Watson (knee), linebacker Quay Walker (ankle), and defensive back Ty’Ron Hopper (ankle), along with safety Evan Williams (quadriceps), were all listed as players who would not have practiced. Watson, who injured his knee during the Packers’ win over the Saints, is listed with a bruise and his availability for Sunday remains uncertain. Williams is likely out for the remainder of the regular season due to his quadriceps injury. The absences of Walker and Hopper could lead to more playing time for Edgerrin Cooper, but it leaves the linebacker position thin on depth.
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