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NFL·ANALYSIS·October 7, 2026 11:07 AM ET

Packers edge Buccaneers 17-14 in Week 4 defensive battle

Heavy 13 personnel sparked two explosive runs

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read
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What happened: Jordan Love read two-high safeties and targeted Bo Melton vertically down the middle against a dropping linebacker. Melton separated from the slot but did not secure the first-read throw. Chris Brooks followed blocks from Laken Tomlinson and Mark Redman and cut back inside for a 27-yard gain from 13 personnel in the Week 4 win over Tampa Bay.

Why it matters: Green Bay entered Week 4 with little room in the run game through three weeks. The heaviest 13-personnel usage of the season produced two explosives with double-teams and a lead block. The missed vertical left a scoring chance unclaimed despite favorable leverage on the linebacker.

By the numbers: Final: Green Bay Packers 17, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 14, Week 4. Brooks run in game: 27 yards; 2025: 27 carries for 106 yards in 17 games. Smith 2025: 38 catches for 222 yards and 2 touchdowns in 17 games; Melton 2025: 19 kickoff returns for 467 yards in 16 games.

What to watch: Green Bay turns to Week 5 with the 13-personnel run package established. The next step is finishing vertical matchups created off that heavy look.

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NFLAnalysisGreen Bay PackersTampa Bay BuccaneersJordan LoveBo Melton
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