The Green Bay Packers entered Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns carrying high expectations after an undefeated start to the season.
Many considered Green Bay among the NFL’s early favorites, but the matchup at Huntington Bank Field quickly exposed critical vulnerabilities in a disappointing 13-10 loss.
The defeat came down to a crucial special teams breakdown in the final moments.
With under 30 seconds remaining, Cleveland’s Shelby Harris blocked a 43-yard field goal attempt by Packers kicker Brandon McManus that would have given Green Bay the lead.
Following the loss, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur delivered a candid assessment of the blocked kick, per USA Today’s Ryan Wood.
“We got lifted. We played with poor pad level, and we didn’t play with correct steps, and we just didn’t have the right technique,” LaFleur said.
Matt LaFleur on Shelby Harris’ blocked kick: “We got lifted. We played with poor pad level, and we didn’t play with correct steps, and we just didn’t have the right technique.”
Thinks edge defender might have also may have nicked the ball. LaFleur says operation timing was fine.
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) September 22, 2025
LaFleur didn’t dodge responsibility for the defeat, pointing to multiple mistakes that accumulated against his team.
Green Bay committed 14 penalties in the game, creating nearly impossible conditions to overcome.
The coach emphasized that penalties, a costly interception, and breakdowns in offensive execution all contributed to the disappointing result.
The Packers’ offense struggled significantly, averaging just 3.8 yards per play while allowing five sacks.
Cleveland’s defense, coordinated by Jim Schwartz and anchored by players like Harris, consistently disrupted Green Bay’s rhythm and made life difficult throughout the contest.
LaFleur praised the Browns’ defensive toughness, noting their combination of elite personnel and relentless effort.
The loss serves as a wake-up call for Green Bay as they prepare for their next challenge.
LaFleur emphasized the importance of enhancing fundamental coaching and attention to detail in high-pressure situations moving forward.
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