Kevin Seifert, ESPN Staff Writer 13y

Rapid Reaction: Packers 28, Lions 26

GREEN BAY -- Let’s hit a few quick items as the Packers hold on for a 28-26 victory:

What it means: The Green Bay Packers were on the ropes for most of the second half because their defense couldn’t get off the field on third down, leading to a tremendous time of possession deficit and few chances for their offense. Oh, and the Lions played a rugged and spirited game as well. The Lions converted 10 of 17 third down attempts and held the ball for 37 minutes and 37 seconds. But ultimately they lost their 19th consecutive regular season game in the state of Wisconsin because the Packers ran off the final 6:32.

Run-down: Converted fullback John Kuhn did exactly what you would hope he could do in the fourth quarter: Help the Packers run down the clock in a close game. I had him for 34 rushing yards [updated] on the final possession, which also included a smart 16-yard run from quarterback Aaron Rodgers. In this league, the one time you need a powerful running game is at the end of the game. And for 6:32, at least, the Packers had one.

Tomorrow’s talker: Lions quarterback Shaun Hill threw for 331 yards, completing 34 of 51 passes, which are certainly nice numbers. But Hill also showed his mobility by rushing for 53 yards, including a 40-yarder -- no, that’s not one of my many typos -- in the third quarter. Hill took advantage of a wide-open middle of the field to convert a 3rd-and-6 -- and then some. Some people probably forget that Hill often ran the option at the University of Maryland.

Still kicking: Lions place-kicker Jason Hanson was short on a 55-yard attempt just before halftime but drilled four field goals, including conversions from 52 and 49 yards.

What’s next: The Packers play at the Washington Redskins and the Lions host the St. Louis Rams. Both games are next Sunday.

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