The Green Bay Packers were without their top playmaker on offense after Aaron Jones was ruled out because of the nagging hamstring injury that has affected him since the season’s opening game in Chicago.
Green Bay could have used him, with their offense stuck in neutral throughout their 17-13 loss to the Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.
First year starting quarterback Jordan Love struggled, going just 16 of 30 for 182 yards and the three interceptions. “I’ve got to be better,” Love told reporters after the game. “I’ve got to take care of the ball.”
Love’s final interception came on a desperation end zone heave intended for teammate Christian Watson, but instead was picked off by Las Vegas cornerback Amik Robertson.
“One of the best interceptions I’ve ever seen in my life,” said Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane, who intercepted Love twice. “Fifty yards down the field, to be able to contort his body, high point the football and end the game like that, what an outstanding play by a player who’s been gnawing at the bit to get on the field.”
Rookie tight end Luke Musgrave caught the most Jordan Love passes (6) but was also chewed out on the sidelines by Packers coach Matt LaFleur for an on-field miscommunication. Still, the coach didn’t fault anyone’s effort or dedication.
“I thought our defense competed hard, enough for us to win the game,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. “We’ve got to find a way to score points because I think anytime you hold somebody to 17 points, it’s enough to win football games.”
Green Bay now embarks on their bye week. This season’s bye comes considerably earlier than the last two seasons, where the bye was considerably later in the years.