Green Bay Packers’ head coach Matt LaFleur faces mounting criticism for retaining defensive coordinator Joe Barry as the team’s defensive woes persist. Barry’s unit, criticized for allowing late-game heroics in recent weeks, faced another setback as the Packers narrowly secured a 33-30 win against the Carolina Panthers.
Despite holding a 30-16 lead, the Packers’ defense allowed two touchdown drives in the fourth quarter, allowing the Panthers to tie the score. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young capitalized on the defensive vulnerabilities, throwing for a career-high 312 yards and two touchdowns on 23-of-36 completions. While the Packers secured the victory with a last-minute field goal, the defensive struggles raised questions about Barry’s ability to address key issues.
Bryce Young, who had previously faced difficulties this season, showcased a remarkable performance against the Packers. Before this game, Young had only surpassed 200 passing yards four times, with his previous high coming in October. His quarterback rating of 110.0 in Week 16 marked a significant improvement, emphasizing the challenges the Packers’ defense faced.
The pressure on Joe Barry intensifies as critics question his effectiveness in addressing defensive shortcomings. Calls for his dismissal have grown louder, especially after the recent string of less-than-stellar performances. The decision to retain Barry has been met with skepticism, and there are indications that other coaches are eyeing his position.
Despite the team’s 7-8 record and the narrow victory against the Panthers keeping playoff hopes alive, the persistent defensive issues have fueled speculation about Barry’s future with the Packers. While a mid-season firing seems unlikely, the mounting pressure suggests that changes may be on the horizon if defensive improvements are not evident in the coming games.
In the aftermath of the game, the focus shifts to Matt LaFleur’s decision-making regarding Joe Barry’s tenure as defensive coordinator and whether the Packers can address their defensive vulnerabilities in the crucial final stretch of the season.