Quarterback Jordan Love led the Green Bay Packers to a decisive 34-0 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Monday night, securing a playoff berth for the Packers. Love showcased his prowess by throwing for 182 yards and a touchdown, while the Packers’ defense dominated throughout the game.
The Packers, now with an impressive 11-4 record, stormed out of the gate with touchdowns on their first three possessions, setting the tone early in the game. Love’s precision passing, complemented by solid rushing efforts from his teammates, propelled Green Bay to their ninth win in the last 11 games.
Controlling the game’s tempo, Green Bay maintained possession of the ball for an impressive 37 minutes and 13 seconds, showcasing their offensive efficiency. The Packers outgained the Saints by a commanding margin, amassing 404 total yards compared to New Orleans’ 196.
On the other side, rookie Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler struggled to find his rhythm, completing 15 of 30 passes for 153 yards with an interception and a lost fumble. Rattler’s challenging outing dropped the Saints to a 5-10 record, with the young quarterback now winless in his four starts taking Derek Carr’s place due to injury.
The shutout victory for the Packers marked the first blanking in the NFL this season, highlighting the dominant performance by Green Bay’s defense. Notably, this game was only the second time in their past 370 games that the Saints were held scoreless, underscoring the Packers’ impressive defensive showcase.
From the game’s onset, the Packers displayed their offensive prowess, scoring touchdowns on their first three possessions to establish a commanding lead. Love orchestrated a 63-yard drive culminating in a 2-yard touchdown pass to Dontayvion Wicks on the opening possession, setting the tone for Green Bay’s dominant performance.
Building on their early success, the Packers converted critical third and fourth downs during a 17-play, 96-yard drive that culminated in a 2-yard touchdown run by Josh Jacobs, extending their lead to 14-0. Subsequently, Green Bay continued their offensive onslaught with a 67-yard drive capped off by a 1-yard touchdown run by Chris Brooks, further solidifying their control of the game.
Despite a brief offensive threat from the Saints, the Packers’ defense stood firm, with Keisean Nixon forcing a crucial fumble from Rattler that was recovered by Rashan Gary, preserving Green Bay’s 21-0 lead heading into halftime.
In the second half, the Packers maintained their dominance, with Brandon McManus adding a 55-yard field goal to extend their lead to 24-0. The Packers’ defense continued to stifle the Saints, holding them scoreless throughout the third quarter.
