NFL Week 15: 5 teams that must win
By Joe Schiller
2. Green Bay Packers
The Packers were No. 1 on this list last week and almost blew it against the winless Browns. They engineered a 14-point comeback to win in overtime and now they have to win again to keep their playoff hopes alive. This time, it’s a little bit different. Instead of Brett Hundley under center, Aaron Rodgers finally returns back after breaking his collarbone.
Rodgers’ return couldn’t come at a more opportune time. The Packers have one of the toughest three-game schedules of any team. They’re on the road against the Panthers, home to face the Vikings and finish out the season at Ford Field against the Lions. If there’s any quarterback to feel confident in having a shot to pull off three wins against these teams, it’s Rodgers. He’s a difference maker anytime he’s on the field.
If the Packers are going to be one of the best in the NFC, they’re going to have to prove that against one of the best of the NFC in the Panthers. Cam Newton and company are a tough opponent any day of the week, especially on the road. They’re a top-10 defense this season and will be keying in on Rodgers the entire game, looking to make the Packers a one-dimensional team.
It’s going to take a miracle job from Rodgers the rest of the regular season for the Packers to sneak into the playoffs.