The Green Bay Packers have lost two consecutive games and are on the outside looking in when it comes to the NFC playoff scenario in 2023. Those two losses to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Giants came after three straight victories over the Los Angeles Chargers, Detroit Lions, and Kansas City Chiefs.
During those losses, the defense, particularly defensive coordinator Joe Barry, was scrutinized. Many fans have urged the Packers to move on from Barry and begin the search for a new DC. Joe Barry addressed that criticism today.
Green Bay Packers Defensive Coordinator Joe Barry Issues Statement Following Tough Loss To Tampa Bay Buccaneers
According to ESPN’s Rob Demovksy:
“This week was particularly difficult for me, difficult for my family, but this is the NFL, this is what you sign up for,” said Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry. We’re dealing with it. We played poorly. I put that on myself to be better for our guys. It’s my fault if we don’t play well.
Joe Barry and his family have clearly seen what the internet has been saying in recent weeks. After Baker Mayfield exited Lambeau Field with a perfect passer rating on Sunday, Twitter (X) became extra brutal.
Will the Packers let Joe Barry go this offseason?
The Packers fell to 6-8 after a 34-20 loss to Tampa Bay. This was their second straight defeat to an opponent who was, by all accounts, quite beatable. Furthermore, it was the second game in a row in which the defense failed to perform fundamental functions.
In contrast to the Packers’ loss to the New York Giants, in which they allowed 200 rushing yards for the fourth time this season, the Packers’ defense failed to offer even average pass defense. When the Buccaneers faced third and short situations, Barry called for soft zone many times. It allowed Tampa Bay to complete a number of short passes, giving its pass catchers plenty of green grass in front of them.
While two games will not define a player’s career, Barry’s time in Green Bay has felt numbered for some time. It would be remarkable if the team decided to continue with him in the future.
