What Is 2015 Green Bay Packers season

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2015 Green Bay Packers finished the regular season with an 11-5 record, won the NFC North, and advanced to the NFC Championship Game, where they lost 24-22 to the Arizona Cardinals on a last-second field goal.

Key Facts

Finished regular season with an 11-5 record under head coach Mike McCarthy
Won the NFC North division title for the second consecutive year
Aaron Rodgers threw for 4,381 yards and 31 touchdowns during the season
Advanced to the NFC Championship Game after defeating the Washington Redskins in the Divisional Round
Lost 24-22 to the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship on January 24, 2016

Overview

The 2015 Green Bay Packers season marked one of the most resilient and dramatic campaigns in franchise history. Led by head coach Mike McCarthy and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the team overcame multiple injuries and mid-season struggles to secure the NFC North title with an 11-5 record. Despite a slow start, including a 1-2 record in their first three games, the Packers won nine of their final ten regular-season matchups to clinch the division.

Green Bay’s season culminated in a heartbreaking NFC Championship Game loss to the Arizona Cardinals, ending their Super Bowl hopes on a last-second 32-yard field goal. Nevertheless, the team showcased remarkable perseverance, especially after Rodgers missed seven games due to a broken collarbone. The Packers’ ability to adapt and thrive under adversity defined the 2015 campaign.

Regular-season record: The Packers finished 11-5, securing first place in the NFC North by one game over the Minnesota Vikings.
Division title: This marked their second consecutive NFC North championship, the first time they had won back-to-back division titles since 2007–2008.
Aaron Rodgers’ performance: Despite missing seven games, Rodgers threw for 4,381 yards and 31 touchdowns in just 13 starts.
Key injury: Rodgers suffered a broken left clavicle in Week 6 against the Chicago Bears, sidelining him until Week 16.
Playoff run: Green Bay defeated the Washington Redskins 35-18 in the Divisional Round before falling 24-22 to Arizona in the NFC Championship.

Performance and Key Games

The 2015 season was defined by pivotal moments, standout performances, and dramatic comebacks. From overcoming a 16-0 deficit against the Detroit Lions in Week 17 to secure the division, to Rodgers’ return in the playoffs, the Packers demonstrated resilience throughout.

Week 17 comeback: Trailing 20-0 at halftime, the Packers rallied to beat the Lions 23-22 on a last-minute touchdown pass from Rodgers.
Jamari Burnham’s role: Backup quarterback Scott Tolzien and Aaron Rodgers’ backup managed the offense during Rodgers’ absence, preserving playoff hopes.
Defensive turnaround: The defense improved significantly in the second half of the season, allowing just 17.8 points per game after Week 9.
James Jones’ contribution: Veteran receiver James Jones returned mid-season and caught 7 passes for 87 yards and 2 touchdowns in his first game back.
Divisional Round dominance: The Packers overwhelmed Washington’s defense, with Rodgers throwing for 210 yards and 3 touchdowns in a 35-18 win.
NFC Championship heartbreak: The Cardinals won 24-22 on a 32-yard field goal by Chandler Catanzaro as time expired, ending Green Bay’s season.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 2015 Packers to recent seasons highlights their consistency and playoff competitiveness:

Season	Record	Division Finish	Playoff Result	Quarterback Pass Yards
2015	11-5	1st NFC North	NFC Championship	Aaron Rodgers: 4,381
2014	12-4	1st NFC North	NFC Divisional	Rodgers: 3,821
2013	8-7-1	2nd NFC North	No playoffs	Rodgers: 3,819
2012	11-5	2nd NFC North	No playoffs	Rodgers: 4,295
2011	15-1	1st NFC	NFC Divisional	Rodgers: 4,982

The 2015 season stands out for its dramatic finish and playoff run despite injuries. While not as dominant as 2011 or 2014, the team’s ability to win close games and rally around Rodgers upon his return made it a memorable year. The narrow loss in the NFC Championship underscored both their potential and the fine margins in postseason football.

Why It Matters

The 2015 Packers season remains significant for its demonstration of resilience, leadership, and the impact of star players like Aaron Rodgers. It also highlighted the importance of depth and adaptability in the NFL, especially during injury-plagued seasons.

Leadership under pressure: Mike McCarthy’s coaching guided the team through a 7-game losing streak when Rodgers was out, maintaining playoff contention.
Rodgers’ legacy: His return and performance in the playoffs reinforced his status as one of the league’s most clutch quarterbacks.
Injury management: The season underscored the need for reliable backup quarterbacks, as Tolzien and others struggled to maintain consistency.
Fan engagement: The dramatic Week 17 win and playoff run kept Lambeau Field energized, contributing to record attendance and merchandise sales.
Front office decisions: The season influenced future roster moves, including increased focus on offensive line and quarterback depth.
Historical context: It marked the 10th time since 1992 that the Packers reached the NFC Championship Game, emphasizing sustained excellence.

The 2015 Green Bay Packers season, though ending in disappointment, remains a testament to perseverance and the unpredictable nature of NFL football. It solidified Aaron Rodgers’ reputation as a comeback specialist and set the stage for future playoff aspirations.