Packers Clinch Playoff Spot with 34-0 Shutout Against Saints
GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers secured their spot in the NFC playoffs on December 23, 2024, after defeating the New Orleans Saints 34-0 in an impressive display at Lambeau Field. This victory boosts the Packers’ record to 11-4, setting them up for a critical upcoming matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, who currently stand at 13-2.
The Packers quickly established their dominance, scoring touchdowns on their first three possessions, marking the first time in four years they achieved such a feat. The Saints, struggling with injuries and led by rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler, were unable to mount any challenge throughout the game.
This match marked the second shutout during Coach Matt LaFleur’s tenure, following a 17-0 win over Seattle in 2021. Defensive highlights included a crucial strip-sack by cornerback Keisean Nixon, a key sack from defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt, and an interception by safety Zayne Anderson, who stepped in for the injured Evan Williams. Each of these plays happened while the Saints were threatening to score.
On the offensive side, the Packers rushed for a remarkable 188 yards, with running back Josh Jacobs leading the charge with 107 yards from scrimmage, including a rushing touchdown. This brought his season total to 14 touchdowns, a record for a Green Bay player in his first year with the team. Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks also contributed with solid performances, each adding touchdowns of their own.
Quarterback Jordan Love completed 16 of 28 passes for 182 yards, throwing one touchdown to wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks. Love’s passer rating stood at 88.7, ending his streak of five consecutive games with a triple-digit rating. Notably, wide receiver Jayden Reed made significant contributions with three catches for 76 yards, but wide receiver Christian Watson left the game with a knee injury and did not return.
For the Saints, Rattler completed 15 of 30 attempts for 153 yards but struggled with an interception and a less-than-stellar passer rating of 51.1. The rookie also led his team in rushing with just 28 yards on the ground.
Game Highlights
In the first quarter, the Packers took an early 7-0 lead, with Jacobs’s contribution significant. The momentum continued as they extended the score to 21-0 by halftime, adding more points through solid offensive drives.
The second half saw the Saints unable to recover, with Green Bay maintaining control throughout. Brandon McManus added a 55-yard field goal in the third quarter, pushing the lead to 24-0. The match concluded with a touchdown run by Wilson, leading to a final score of 34-0.
This victory not only clinches a playoff berth for the Packers but also sets the stage for an exciting showdown against division rivals Minnesota next week, where playoff seeding will be up for grabs.
What’s Next? As the Packers prepare for their important game against the Vikings, fans are hopeful for continued success. With a strong performance against New Orleans, the Packers are looking to improve their playoff positioning as the season concludes.
