Packers secure first 2024 NFL shutout, join largest shutouts list.
The Green Bay Packers crushed the New Orleans Saints 34-0 in Week 16, delivering the first shutout of the 2024 NFL season. It took until December to see a shutout, the latest first-ever in league history. Before this, no season had gone beyond Week 8 without one. Green Bay’s win also clinched a playoff spot, improving their record to 11-4.
Led by defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, the Packers’ defense dominated from the start. Keisean Nixon’s strip-sack at the Green Bay 29 set the tone early. Zayne Anderson added a second-half interception, and the Saints managed only 3.7 yards per play.
This performance ties the Packers’ second-largest shutout in the Super Bowl era, just behind their 37-0 victory over Washington in 2001. Now that we are here let’s look at the other historic shutouts in the league’s history
The New England Patriots delivered the most dominant shutout of the 21st century. Tom Brady threw six touchdown passes, three of which went to Randy Moss, while both Moss and Wes Welker recorded over 100 yards. The Titans, then 0-6, struggled with minus-7 passing yards in snowy Foxborough. Despite the blowout, Jeff Fisher’s team recovered to finish 8-8.
The Rams set an early benchmark for shutout dominance, scoring six rushing touchdowns and one passing touchdown. Backup quarterback James Harris led the offense, while the defense limited the Falcons to under 100 yards. This historic win stood as the largest shutout in NFL history for decades.
The Seahawks showcased their growing dominance in a lopsided victory over the Cardinals. Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin each surpassed 100 rushing yards, with Lynch’s “Beast Mode” runs leading the way. Seattle scored on offense, defense, and special teams, with Richard Sherman adding a pick-six. This game cemented Seattle’s playoff contention under Pete Carroll.
The undefeated Dolphins routed the Patriots at the Orange Bowl, showcasing their well-rounded dominance. Miami’s defense sacked quarterback Jim Plunkett four times and intercepted him three times. Mercury Morris led the offense with three rushing touchdowns. The Dolphins finished the season as the NFL’s only perfect team.
The Rams handed the Raiders a crushing loss with a standout performance by Tre Mason, who totaled 164 yards and three touchdowns, including an 89-yard run. The Raiders’ quarterbacks combined for three interceptions, with one returned for a touchdown by Trumaine Johnson. This game was a rare highlight in an otherwise average season for the Rams.
Image: © Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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