The Green Bay Packers don't have that much in play in Week 18, but the starters will be on the field anyway. Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed his decision on Wednesday, and everyone who's healthy will face the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field on Sunday.
Asked about his decision, LaFleur knows he can end up being criticized by whichever call he makes.
"The right answer is whatever works," the head coach said. "You gotta have a philosophy and do what works best for you."
In 2021, the Packers had already clinched a playoff spot and played their starters for a half against the Detroit Lions. They ended up losing that game and losing in their first playoff game as well, against the San Francisco 49ers.
"We were in a similar situation a few years back, where we played the guys a half and lost in the second half," LaFleur recalled. "Then we had the bye and we lost in the playoffs. So, like, the right answer is whatever works, it's really what I'll tell you. I know you're subject to criticism. If it goes great, then that was the right way to do it. If it doesn't go the way you wanted to, then you learn from every experience."
Obviously, there would be value in resting starters before the playoffs. But more than the fight for the sixth seed, LaFleur thinks it's important to get back on track after a shaky performance against the Minnesota Vikings.
"I do believe there's a lot of value, especially in terms of how we played a week ago," LaFleur said. "Where I didn't think it was the cleanest game in any phase. I think there's value in going out there and playing. And playing well."
Matt LaFleur also said that the coaching staff has to be mindful about injured players. But who's healthy will be active.