Packers Pound Texans and Silence Critics

Week 6
October 14, 2012 - 7:20 p.m. - NBC
Reliant Stadium
Houston, Texas

Packers 42 - Texans 24

The Packers trip to Houston to take on the 5-0 Texans was virtually a playoff game for the Green Bay Packers. Lose and they would fall to 2-4; two games behind the division leading Chicago Bears.  Lose and they would be written off by just about everyone as a playoff team in 2012.  Win and the season remains alive.  The Packers not only won the game, but they sent a message to the rest of the NFL and the NFC North.  The Packers dominated the undefeated Texans in front of their home crowd on a national stage.  Offense, defense, and special teams were impressive.  It was the first game in this 2012 season that the Packers played a "complete game."

Photo credit: Sportscenter 

As for the message to the rest of the NFL and the NFC North opponents?  The Packers are STILL are team to be reckoned with.  This was the statement game of the season so far and "should" hush the media and critics for the time being.  But as Mike McCarthy said in his press conference, they have to spring these wins together now and get a winning streak going.

Offense looked like the offense of 2011 as Aaron Rodgers tied a franchise record throwing six touchdowns in a single game with Matt Flynn (who is still holding the clipboard in Seattle).  Jordy Nelson broke out three touchdown receptions and James Jones added two touchdown catches as well.  James Jones has become the first Packers receiver since Don Hutson to have three-consecutive two touchdown games.  And Alex Green looked pretty decent as well.  Perhaps he can handle the load as the starting running back.

Of course the huge victory didn't come with some type of loss.  ILB DJ Smith has been lost for the season with a torn ACL.  RB Brandon Saine was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury.  OLB Nick Perry hurt his knee and CB Sam Shields hurt his shin.  Brutal.  Next man up.  #gopackgo

Aaron Rodgers to the critics: "Shhhhhhhh."

Chicago Bears  4-1
Minnesota Vikings  4-2
Green Bay Packers  3-3
Detroit Lions  2-3