How the Packers’ Blocked Field Goal Exposed Gaps in Protection

GREEN BAY – Matt LaFleur had a straightforward take on why the Packers’ field goal got blocked late in Sunday’s game. It all boiled down to leverage, but not the kind that breaks rules.

The Cleveland Browns managed to push hard from the middle while also applying pressure from the edge, leading to the block on Brandon McManus’ 43-yard attempt. That kick could have given the Packers the lead with just seconds left on the clock.

“We got outplayed,” LaFleur said. “We didn’t use proper technique, didn’t take the right steps, and that led to a big mistake.” He noted that against a tough opponent, these kinds of breakdowns can turn disastrous.

The block was credited to Shelby Harris, marking his sixth career kick block. While it was one of several blocked kicks across the league that day, LaFleur emphasized that the real issue was a lack of discipline in the protection unit.

LaFleur also mentioned that Denzel Ward might have slightly altered the kick, pointing to multiple failures in their approach.

“Overall, we weren’t good enough,” he said, echoing the struggles of the offense, which only scored 10 points while facing a series of penalties and an unfortunate interception.

Beyond the turnover—which LaFleur discussed in depth—he was concerned about several other mistakes too. With Cleveland effectively neutralizing the run game and pressuring quarterback Jordan Love, the offense tried to adapt with quicker passes, but Love still faced heavy hits and even sacks on those plays.

One critical moment came on a third-and-short at the end of the third quarter, where Love was sacked instead of allowing the clock to run out. LaFleur took responsibility for calling that play instead of just letting the quarter end.

This performance raises questions about team discipline and strategy. According to a recent survey by Pro Football Focus, nearly 35% of offensive plays can be disrupted by a strong defensive push, showing just how critical technique is in high-stakes situations. LaFleur’s insights not only reflect the challenges of one game but highlight the ongoing need for the Packers to tighten their execution moving forward.

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