LaFleur learns from “scared money makes no money”

The Green Bay Packers was the first in Sunday’s 27-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, thanks in large part to a game-changing decision by the head coach Matt LaFleur — and some compelling ones from quarterback Jordan Love.

Late in the fourth quarter, with 2:32 remaining and the Packers trailing 23-20, LaFleur initially sent kicker Lukas Havrisik on a 46-yard attempt to tie the score. But after calling a timeout, he noticed Lev’s visible frustration and reconsidered. Love’s confidence made LaFleur change course – and it paid off.

“When our quarterback came out and I could see the look of disdain on his face, I looked at the clock, saw how much time was left,” LaFleur told Sports Illustrated. “It wasn’t a chance by any means, even though Lucas came in and did a hell of a job. One of those deals where I was like, whatever we call him, this guy is going to make it. And that’s exactly what happened.”

Love delivered, hitting tight end Tucker Kraft for a crucial 15-yard completion to convert the fourth down. Two plays later, Josh Jacobs kicked the go-ahead field goal.

The victory marked a turning point for LaFleur, who has been criticized in the past for being too conservative at key moments. This time he took the risk – and summed it up with a new mantra. “Scared money doesn’t make money,” LaFleur said with a smile.

The decision reflected a change in the mindset of both the coach and the quarterback. Earlier in the game, Green Bay had already shown an aggressive approach, converting the opening quarter and setting a new franchise record with Havris’ 61-yard field goal just before halftime.

Love appreciated the change in tone. “We’re always going to try to be aggressive,” he said. “I like that. I like to work on it in that situation, and that’s where it worked out.”

meanwhile, LaFleur also discussed how his team plans to protect its star defenderMicah Parsons, from being overlooked by officials. Ahead of next week’s game, LaFleur told reporters he intends to speak with game officials about the uncalled holding penalties against Parsons, according to The Athletic. “It will definitely be a prelude to the conversation,” he said.

With the Packers sitting atop the NFC North at 4-1-1, it’s clear that both the team’s aggression and confidence are growing. As Love said, “We’ve got to keep putting wins together and keep believing in each other.