GREEN BAY, WI (WSAU) – The Packers defense intercepted Baker Mayfield four times, including one on what could have been a game-winning drive, for a 24-22 win over the Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland, needing a field goal to win, moved the ball to the 50-yard-line with under 2-minutes to play. Rasul Douglas secured the win with the pick. Replay showed that the Packers may have gotten away with a hold on receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones on the decisive play.
The Packers played unevenly but still managed to get their 12th win of the season. Green Bay’s run defense struggled, giving up more than 200 yards. The defense repeatedly gave up big plays. But Cleveland was ineffective when forced into passing situations, allowing 5 sacks.
The Brown’s cause was hurt by a missed extra point in the first quarter, and a failed 2-point try in the second quarter.
Aaron Rodgers became the Packers’ all-time leader in touchdown passes early in the game, throwing to Allen Lazard to move ahead of Brett Favre. Rodgers, with a quarterback rating of 115, connected with Davante Adams for two additional touchdowns. But the Packers offense went sour late in the second half, managing just one first down on three possessions. Green Bay added only 3 points after halftime, on a 32-yard field goal by Mason Crosby.
The Packers remain the top seed in the NFC, improving to 12-3. The Browns hurt their playoff chances, falling to 7-8.
The Packers take on division rival Minnesota Viking next Sunday night at Lambeau Field.
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