Packers’ surge raises hopes they could work their way into playoff contention
Associated PressGreen Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur took issue this week when he was asked whether he’s reminding players about the possibility of making a late-season playoff run. Green Bay has won three of four since that slide, and the idea that the Packers could play meaningful games around Christmas suddenly doesn’t seem so far-fetched anymore. The Packers also showcased their depth Thursday by beating the NFC North-leading Lions without running back Aaron Jones, cornerback Jaire Alexander, linebacker De’Vondre Campbell and safeties Rudy Ford and Darnell Savage, among others. The Packers have produced five takeaways without committing a turnover during this two-game win streak.. After allowing five sacks in a 34-20 loss to the Lions at Lambeau on Sept. 28, the Packers didn’t give up a single sack in Thursday’s rematch.. Green Bay’s defense caused the Lions to go 1 of 5 on fourth-down attempts. STOCK UP Rashan Gary matched a career high with three sacks in his first game at Ford Field since tearing his anterior cruciate ligament there last year.. S Jonathan Owens scored on a 27-yard fumble return and had 12 tackles, matching the second-highest total of his career.. Love has completed over two-thirds of his passes in three of his last four games.. WR Malik Heath, a rookie undrafted free agent with one career catch before Thursday, had four receptions for 46 yards.. RT Zach Tom continued his breakthrough season while helping protect Love.. Watson had a season-high 94 yards receiving and scored a touchdown for a second straight game.