Matt LaFleur could join legendary list of coaches with win Saturday

The Green Bay Packers coach could be in line to join a legendary group against Carolina. 

When hired, Matt LaFleur was considered a risky move for the Green Bay Packers entering a must-win season. After leaving Sean McVay, the Tennessee Titans offense was good, but far from great under the then 39-year-old coach as the team’s coordinator.

Good thing risks can sometimes pan out in one’s favor.

Whether it’s LaFleur’s play-calling or Aaron Rodgers‘ resurgence, the Packers have been one of the league’s most consistent franchises the past two seasons. After finishing 13-3 in 2019, the team is looking to repeat with the same record, sitting at 10-3 entering Week 15.

The difference this season is Green Bay is on pace to garner the No.1 seed in the NFC. However, the attention turns to LaFleur entering Saturday night against the Carolina Panthers.

LaFleur’s 26-3 record is among the league’s best for a first-time head coach. Should the team defeat Carolina on the road, that would place the now 41-year-old coach as the sixth head coach to win at least 24 of his first 30 games.

Other coaches who have claimed their spot include George Seifert (27), Guy Chamberlin (26), Paul Brown (25), George Halas (24) and Steve Mariucci (24).

Go against the grain if you’re the Packers

No one can deny the success of Rodgers at the start of the new decade. The franchise is clicking in the passing game despite refusing to add another weapon at the 2020 NFL Draft or trade deadline.

To put Rodgers’ MVP numbers into perspective, JK Scott, the Packers punter, has only trotted out on the field 38 times this year. Rodgers has thrown for 39 touchdowns in that same amount of time.

Matt Rhule’s team in the Queen City will rebound in the future, but many knew his first season would be one of turmoil. Teddy Bridgewater has been a serviceable quarterback, but the defense has been one of the league’s worst.

Then again, a majority of starters are rookies to build around in the future.

Green Bay has already clinched both a playoff spot and the NFC North title. With their playoff picture in place, perhaps LaFleur could have some fun, calling plays that usually are left for a rainy day.

The Packers could be in line for a massive road win. Meanwhile, LaFleur is set to join an elite group of coaches with one final “W” in his column.