The New England Patriots had momentum as they came home in Week 9 to host the Green Bay Packers. They had pulled off a solid come-from-behind road victory over the Miami Dolphins in Week 8, and they were also celebrating their 2016 championship team.
While the Patriots had a party atmosphere for their Week 9 game against the visiting Green Bay Packers, it was the visitors who were celebrating.
Green Bay came into Foxborough and pummeled the defending AFC champions, earning a 45-27 triumph. The Packers dominated on both sides of the ball, and New England head coach Mike Vrabel gave an honest assessment of what happened to his team throughout the game.
“We got our asses kicked,” Vrabel told the media, per Steve Buckley of The Athletic. “There’s no two ways about it.”
Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love had a sensational game against the Patriots defense. He completed 23 of 29 passes for 372 yards with 3 touchdowns and no interceptions. Love also ran 13 yards for the opening touchdown of the game.
Packers wide receivers Christian Watson and Matthew Golden both torched the Patriots secondary. Watson caught 7 passes for 171 yards and 1 touchdown, while Golden used his eye-catching speed to get behind the New England pass defense. He caught 10 passes for 164 yards with 1 touchdown.
While the Packers offense had an explosive effort, the defense tormented Patriots QB Drake Maye. Defensive back Xavier McKinney intercepted the New England quarterback twice and Even Williams had a third interception.
The Patriots saw their record slip to 5-4 with the home loss. Another tough assignment is in front of them as they face the Lions in Detroit in Week 10.