Uncover the Surprising Secret Behind the Packers Defense’s Explosive Play Shutdowns

Ever notice how sometimes the scoreboard tells a story that’s wildly different from what you saw on the field? Take the Green Bay Packers this season—on paper, their record might leave you scratching your head, but delve a little deeper and their defense is painting a far different picture. Led by the savvy Jeff Hafley, this unit is running circles around explosive plays, stifling opponents in ways that most teams only dream about. It’s almost like watching a masterclass in containment—so why isn’t that dominance translating into more W’s? Let’s unpack how this under-the-radar defensive prowess is both a testament to skill and a curious puzzle in the Packers’ 2025 campaign.

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 19: Micah Parsons #1 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates a sack with Warren Brinson #91, Rashan Gary #52 and Javon Bullard #20 during the second quarter of the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. The Packers defeated the Cardinals 27-23. — (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)kers players

The Green Bay Packers‘ record doesn’t reflect their talent. They should’ve won at least a couple of the games they’ve lost this season, primarily because of their defense.

Coordinator Jeff Hafley turned that unit around last season, and it’s been even better this season, in one area in particular. Stats show how the Packers’ defense dominates against explosive plays.

According to analyst Ben Fennell, Green Bay has allowed the fewest 10-yard plays (96) and the fewest 20-yard plays (23) in the NFL.

Fewest 10yd Plays Allowed
1. Packers – 96
2. Texans – 100
31. Giants – 163
32. Commanders – 166

Fewest 20yd Plays Allowed
1. Packers – 23
2. Raiders – 25
31. Bears – 47
32. Bengals – 48

— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) November 17, 2025

Even in losses, the Packers’ defense has held its ground. If the offense had scored 17 points in each of the games they lost, they would be undefeated with one tie at this point.

They’ve allowed more than 23 points twice this season, one being the tie against the Dallas Cowboys. Other than that, they’ve allowed 13, 16 and 10 points in three losses. They’re giving up 19.6 points per game, the seventh-best mark in the league.

The team hasn’t lived up to expectations, in part because of a combination of injuries, questionable play-calling, and poor offensive line play. Yet, the defense has clearly held up its end of the bargain, and it feels like Hafley deserves much more credit for the work he’s done in charge of that unit.

The Packers will look to build on their Week 11 road win against the New York Giants against the rival Minnesota Vikings in Week 12 at home.

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