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Camera catches Packers coach Matt LaFleur in heated exchange with Lions fan

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Thad Brown | Last updated Dec 6, 2024 12:16 AM ET

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur became an unexpected focal point before the highly anticipated Thursday Night Football matchup against the Detroit Lions.

Moments before kickoff, LaFleur was caught on camera engaging in a heated exchange with a Lions fan near the sideline at Ford Field.

The situation unfolded as the American flag was being stretched out for the national anthem. The camera angle showed the fan shouting toward LaFleur, prompting a reaction from the usually composed head coach.

The altercation appeared to escalate, with Packers players Josh Jacobs, Jayden Reed, and Bo Melton stepping in to diffuse the tension. Stadium officials and referees eventually intervened, escorting the fan away from the scene.

Matt LaFleur was getting into it with a Lions fan before kickoff

: @DaireCarragher pic.twitter.com/Tyn2fJlaSc
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) December 6, 2024

The Lions, currently leading the NFC North with an 11-1 record, are enjoying a dominant season. Their high-powered offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff and the running back duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, has been a major factor in their success.

On the defensive side, injuries to key players like Aidan Hutchinson have tested their depth, but Detroit has continued to excel.

The Packers entered Thursday’s game at 9-3, aiming to close the gap in the division standings. LaFleur, known for his calculated demeanor on the sidelines, has overseen Green Bay’s rise as a contender since taking over in 2019.

However, this pregame incident added an unexpected twist to the narrative ahead of one of the most critical games of the season.

With the NFC North rivalry heating up, the pregame scuffle served as a reflection of the intensity and stakes surrounding this divisional showdown.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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