Discover the Unexpected Twist That Could Change Everything About This Story

Isn’t it curious how a game that kicks off with such lofty promise can unravel on the slimmest of margins? The Green Bay Packers, riding high on their undefeated streak, found themselves staring down a harsh reality in Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns. Imagine this: less than 30 seconds left on the clock, a 43-yard field goal poised to snatch victory—only to be spectacularly blocked. And who was at the center of it? Shelby Harris. Now, Matt LaFleur, ever the straight-shooter, didn’t sugarcoat the fallout. He put it all out there—poor pad level, sloppy technique, and a cascade of penalties. It’s the kind of hard truth that stings but also lights a fire under a team. As much as the scoreboard said 13-10, the story behind those numbers tells us a lot about the fragile dance of execution and resilience in the NFL. So, what exactly does this stumble mean for a team once lauded as early favorites? Let’s unpack that.

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Head coach Matt LaFleur of the Green Bay Packers celebrates after defeating the Washington Commanders in the game at Lambeau Field on September 11, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. — (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

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.

The post Matt LaFleur Has Honest Admission About Browns’ Blocked Kick appeared first on The Cold Wire.