Jordan Love Shines in Preseason Finale as Packers Top Seahawks
Jordan Love Shines in Preseason Finale as Packers Top Seahawks
New Delhi : Jordan Love ended the preseason on a promising note as he gears up to take over the reins from a four-time MVP. Love’s final preseason game saw him throw a touchdown pass to Christian Watson, helping the Green Bay Packers secure a 19-15 victory over the Seattle Seahawks. This game marked Love’s last opportunity to fine-tune his skills before his inaugural season as the Packers’ starting quarterback, following Aaron Rodgers’ trade to the New York Jets.
Despite having only one regular-season start under his belt, Love’s approach was to maintain comfort and consistency between his practice and game performances. His 9-of-15 completion rate for 63 yards, along with three carries for 21 yards, showcased his development against a Seattle defense primarily made up of reserves. Love’s preseason statistics of 21-of-33 for 193 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions indicate his steady growth and poise on the field.
Love’s Mindset and Day-by-Day Progress
Jordan Love highlighted his dedication to taking things one step at a time, emphasizing a day-by-day approach to his development. His goal was to eliminate any disparities between his practice and game demeanor, focusing on minimizing nervousness and maximizing his performance. The result was an effective 6-yard touchdown pass to Watson, wrapping up a 15-play, 80-yard drive. Despite a deep pass misstep earlier in the series, Love’s ability to bounce back and lead his team to a scoring play showcased his resilience.
Comparisons and High Expectations
The Packers are placing their hopes on Love to emulate the impact Seattle’s Geno Smith had in the previous season. Smith steered the Seahawks to an unexpected playoff berth after the trade of star quarterback Russell Wilson. Seattle rested Smith and most starters in this preseason game, offering backup Drew Lock the chance to lead the team’s offense. Lock’s previous experience as a Denver Broncos starter allowed him to demonstrate his capabilities with a 16-of-25 performance, amassing 150 yards and a touchdown pass. Lock expressed his confidence and readiness to face challenges in the upcoming regular season.
Diverse Contributions and Game Momentum
Lock’s role extended beyond passing, culminating in a 10-play, 89-yard drive ending with a SaRodorick Thompson touchdown run that gave the Seahawks a brief lead. However, the Packers managed to reclaim the lead in the final moments, securing victory with a late touchdown run by Nate McCrary. Notably, the game’s outcome was shaped by a 52-yard completion from Alex McGough to Jadakis Bonds, setting up McCrary’s decisive touchdown.
Sealing the Win and Special Teams Impact
The game’s outcome was sealed by Benny Sapp’s interception of a pass from Holton Ahlers in the end zone, securing the victory for the Packers. On the special teams front, rookie kicker Anders Carlson stood out by converting two field goals—a 43-yarder in the first quarter and an impressive 57-yarder just before halftime. Although Carlson’s extra-point attempt was blocked, his contributions hinted at a potential successor to Mason Crosby, the Packers’ career scoring leader.
Injury Updates for Both Teams
The game was not without its share of injuries. Seahawks linebacker Devin Bush suffered a concussion, while safety Joey Blount and outside linebacker Derick Hall sustained shoulder injuries. The Packers faced injuries of their own, with wide receiver Romeo Doubs sidelined due to a hamstring issue, and linebacker De’Vondre Campbell unavailable due to an ankle injury.
