A Positive Note: Packers Down Atlanta to Close Bart Starr’s First Season as Coach

Dec. 21, 1975 – Al Matthews, Clarence Williams and Alden Roche help ensure the season finale against the Falcons is a success as the trio of defenders halt two fourth-quarter Atlanta drives in the Packers’ 22-13 victory at Lambeau Field. Matthews stops the first by intercepting rookie Steve Bartkowski in the end zone with 8 minutes, 22 seconds remaining. The next time the Falcons get the ball, Williams sacks Bartkowski forcing a fumble that Roche jumps on. The win gives Green Bay a 4-10 record, tied with the Bears for last place in the NFC Central Division. “Maybe it would be more appropriate to look at it as a start on next year,” Packers coach Bart Starr says. “Of course, you always play mental games, wishing you could have done some of the things before that you’re doing now. But it’s nice to end on a positive note.”