THE SPORTSMISTAKES RECORD

Packers 4th and 26 Defense

2004 • NFL • Coaching Mistake • Defensive Call
Packers 4th and 26 Defense — SportsMistakes artwork

THE STORY

On January 11, 2004, during the NFC Divisional Playoff at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, the Green Bay Packers led the Philadelphia Eagles 17–14 with 1:12 remaining. Facing a 4th-and-26, Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb completed a 28-yard pass to Freddie Mitchell, setting up a game-tying field goal. The Eagles won 20–17 in overtime.

TEAMS / PEOPLE: Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles

WHY IT MATTERS

This play, known as "4th and 26," is infamous for the Packers' defensive strategy, which allowed a crucial conversion leading to their playoff elimination.

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