In the NFL, things can drastically change from one season to another, and two teams going face-to-face in Week 14 are proof of this. The Falcons and Packers came into this season with high expectations, but injuries have hindered their roster and performance has been largely lackluster.
Last season, the Falcons finished 13-3, while the Packers went 11-5. Fast forward to right now, and Atlanta stands at 3-9 and Green Bay at 5-6-1.
Despite the way their seasons have gone, both teams have a high sense of respect for each other and know that although their seasons haven't gone how they envisioned, their success in the past indicates what they're capable of doing on the field.
Throughout their practice week, the Falcons have continually talked about the challenge they'll face with Packers' running back Eddie Lacy, while Green Bay head coach Mike McCarthy and linebacker Clay Matthews praised the Falcons' offense, specifically Harry Douglas.
Although the Packers are still in playoff contention, the Falcons hope they can play spoiler when the two teams face off at Lambeau Field on Sunday.
"You come in with high expectations, you have injuries just like every other team and sometimes you feel like they're very hard to overcome," Matthews said. "You drop a game here, you drop a game there and next thing you know you put yourselves in a very tough position.
"You obviously don't want to give up on a season and this is ultimately new territory for both of these teams so you need to finish and have a sense of pride and show off what you're about."
