Packers’ Decision to Play Starters in Week 18
Despite the Green Bay Packers having little to gain in terms of playoff seeding during Week 18, head coach Matt LaFleur has decided to keep his starters on the field for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. LaFleur confirmed his decision during Wednesday’s press conference, stating that every player who is healthy and able to contribute will take the field at Lambeau Field.
LaFleur’s Philosophy: Balancing Rest and Momentum
When asked about his decision to play the starters despite limited stakes in the standings, LaFleur acknowledged the challenge of making the right call, knowing that any decision will be subject to scrutiny.
“The right answer is whatever works,” LaFleur said. “You gotta have a philosophy and do what works best for you.” The coach emphasized the importance of sticking with a game plan, regardless of the outcome, as every experience can be a learning opportunity.
A Lesson from 2021: The Risks of Resting Too Soon
LaFleur’s approach is shaped by the lessons learned from a similar situation in 2021. That season, the Packers had already clinched a playoff spot and, with nothing left to prove in the regular season, chose to rest their key players in the second half of their game against the Detroit Lions. The Packers lost that game and then suffered a disappointing early exit in the playoffs, falling to the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round.
“We were in a similar situation a few years back, where we played the guys a half and lost in the second half,” LaFleur recalled. “Then we had the bye, and we lost in the playoffs. So, like, the right answer is whatever works, it’s really what I’ll tell you. I know you’re subject to criticism. If it goes great, then that was the right way to do it. If it doesn’t go the way you wanted, then you learn from every experience.”
The Importance of Momentum Over Rest
While resting starters is often seen as a smart strategy to avoid injuries before the playoffs, LaFleur believes there is greater value in ending the regular season on a high note, especially after the Packers’ underwhelming performance against the Minnesota Vikings the previous week.
“I do believe there’s a lot of value, especially in terms of how we played a week ago,” LaFleur explained. “Where I didn’t think it was the cleanest game in any phase. I think there’s value in going out there and playing. And playing well.” LaFleur sees this as an opportunity to correct mistakes, build confidence, and ensure the team is clicking on all cylinders as they head into the postseason.
Mindful of Injuries: Player Availability Matters
LaFleur also acknowledged the need to be cautious with injured players. The coaching staff will carefully consider the health of each player before making decisions about who will play. For those who are fully healthy, however, there is no reason to hold back.
The final game of the regular season provides the Packers with an opportunity to regain momentum and rectify any issues from their previous loss. Whether or not this decision pays off in the long run, LaFleur’s focus is on getting the team back on track and ready for the challenges that await in the playoffs.
