To say this is a make-or-break game for the Packers is overstating the situation in the minds of some, and a clear understatement for others. But clearly, at the halfway point of the season, the Packers have underachieved based on expectations...which themselves, in retrospect, might very well have been overstated given the youth and lack of talent in key areas (e.g., offensive line) of the squad.
Still, there have been other seasons where the Pack sat exactly at this same point, 4-4, and wound up making the playoffs. So, should we fret? We'll know for sure later this afternoon.
The players had their "come to Jesus" meeting, as reported here and elsewhere early in the week. They basically understand the situation they and the coaches have put themselves in. Last week was the game they needed to right themselves after the ViQueens game. Didn't do it. Laid a big egg instead against one of the worst teams in the league.
Dallas is favored by 3, even with the game at Lambeau. The 'boys have a hot QB in Burlington, WI native and favorite son, Tony Romo. They have a three-headed running attack, any piece of which could exploit problems in the Packers defense. They have a receiver that was unheard of last year, Miles Austin, and who lit up the Packers big time in his coming out party. Their offensive line is huge and could easily dominate the Packers 3-4 scheme. The Cowboys defense can and likely will generate major pressure on Aaron Rodgers and add to the team's already league-leading sack total.
So, against a hot team like Dallas, who has the edge in 5 out of 9 team areas according to some analysts, what are the prospects? Not great, unless the Packers change their modus operandi in one fell swoop. It's kind of like the "opposite George" episode from Seinfeld. You know, the one where George Costanza finally realizes that if he just does the exact opposite of what he usually does he'll finally achieve success.
In the case of the Packers, doing the opposite consists of: running the ball consistently, using a short 3-step drop passing attack so the offensive line is less susceptible to exposing their sieve-like tendencies, and on defense blitzing at least once in a while...oh, and having special teams if not actually being special at least being adequate and not allowing huge punt and kick returns by the opponent.
By being the "opposite George/Packers" the Pack has a chance today. Their season is on the line.
The prediction? Frankly, I'm not optimistic. I think if the past is prelude, the Packers will lose by 10 or more.
But still, I'd like to put this game in the category of TCTC (too close to call...or TC2 for those who favor scientific notation in their acronyms).
No matter, the cheer must still be raised: Go Pack Go!!!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Another example of Coach McCarthy feeling the pressure?
No, this one is not Packers CEO Mark Murphy putting some subtle verbal screws to the coaching staff, as happened earlier this week. And it's certainly not GM Ted Thompson saying anything...when was the last time that happened? But as noted in an earlier post here this week, McCarthy is clearly feeling the heat by emphasizing that they are taking this upcoming game against the Cowboys as seriously as a heart attack (paraphrasing).
But perhaps some warning signs about the mounting pressure started to show a bit earlier.
There's a fascinatingly sad article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel about a part-time maintenance worker at Lambeau Field, who had worked there for more than 20 years, getting canned because of a comment he said never made to the coach.
On the Thursday before the game versus the ViQueens, the worker was sitting in a maintenance cart inside a stadium tunnel. According to the report, he says he yelled at McCarthy, "Hey coach, let's get the boys ready to kick some butt this weekend." That was it. The following day, it was work as usual. When the fellow showed up on Sunday, however, to begin his pre-game set up routine, it wasn't long before he was escorted out of Lambeau Field and was out of a job. McCarthy claimed that the worker said something along the lines of "don't lay an egg" in the game.
If he didn't say the latter, apparently even now shouting words of encouragement at the coach is seen as insubordination. Getting wound just a bit tight, eh, coach? Does the name Captain Queeg ring a bell?
The best cure is a win. I hate to quote Al Davis but, just win, baby, win!
For more of the sad story about the loyal part-time worker booted for daring to speak to the coach, click here.
But perhaps some warning signs about the mounting pressure started to show a bit earlier.
There's a fascinatingly sad article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel about a part-time maintenance worker at Lambeau Field, who had worked there for more than 20 years, getting canned because of a comment he said never made to the coach.
On the Thursday before the game versus the ViQueens, the worker was sitting in a maintenance cart inside a stadium tunnel. According to the report, he says he yelled at McCarthy, "Hey coach, let's get the boys ready to kick some butt this weekend." That was it. The following day, it was work as usual. When the fellow showed up on Sunday, however, to begin his pre-game set up routine, it wasn't long before he was escorted out of Lambeau Field and was out of a job. McCarthy claimed that the worker said something along the lines of "don't lay an egg" in the game.
If he didn't say the latter, apparently even now shouting words of encouragement at the coach is seen as insubordination. Getting wound just a bit tight, eh, coach? Does the name Captain Queeg ring a bell?
The best cure is a win. I hate to quote Al Davis but, just win, baby, win!
For more of the sad story about the loyal part-time worker booted for daring to speak to the coach, click here.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Do the Packers players get it now?
With the youngest squad in the NFL for the fourth consecutive year, some analysts have wondered whether or not the youngsters understand the need to win now...that you can be playing today and out of the game tomorrow...that there is only today in the NFL. Old timers such as Charles Woodson, Donald Driver, Mark Tauscher, Ahman Green and Chad Clifton get it. The kids? Maybe not so much.
But perhaps that's about to change. Apparently after watching film of the Tampa Bay debacle on Monday, the offensive players had, as guard Daryn Colledge put it, "a come-to-Jesus meeting." According to at least one report, "With the coaches still in the room, the veteran leaders on offense, one by one, took turns addressing the rest of the unit...According to players who were in the room, Rodgers, tackle Mark Tauscher and receiver Donald Driver were the most powerful speakers."
While generally positive in tone, emphasizing what the squad is doing well -- they are ranked as the #7 offense, after all -- some blunt words were also spoken, so much so that word travelled quickly to the defensive unit and was received as a positive sign.
You can read more of the details via the link above.
Now, whether words alone can correct the plethora of mistakes that have plagued the Pack so far this season remains to be seen. But the Packers are apparently focused on this game versus the Cowboys in a way perhaps they haven't been yet this season for any other game...maybe not even the ViQueens games. In his news briefing with the media yesterday, Head Coach Mike McCarthy said, "Our message is very clear. The head coach has to coach better, the coaches have to coach better, the players have to play better, and we have to win games. That's our focus. We're going to apply all of our energy into this Dallas game plan. ... That's about as far down the road as we're looking. We're going to pour everything that we have into winning at home against the Cowboys. That's our focus." If you were to see footage of this statement you'd know this is about as serious as you'd ever see Mike McCarthy. Clearly, he is feeling the heat and knows that if things don't turn around and fast he could be on his way out.
Unfortunately, the injury bug seems to be biting the Packers at an inopportune time. RT Mark Tauscher is still questionable for Sunday and Allen Barbre also now has an injury which required rookie T. J. Lang to shift over from the left side to the right for the first time in practice. On the defensive side of things, not only is Aaron Kampman still questionable with his concussion, but Brady Popinga, who had replaced Kampman, is also injured. That means either rookie Brad Jones or second-year player Jeremy Thompson might get the start at outside linebacker.
So, another offensive line shuffle against a very good defense, and perhaps some new starters in key positions on the defense. Going against a team on a 4-game win streak. Yikes.
The team hasn't done anything to this point in the season to give fans confidence they can beat a good team. And after the game Sunday, we don't even have confidence about beating a horrible team. Depending upon what spread source you are looking at the game is either a toss up (really???) or the Cowboys are favored by 3 as of the time of this posting.
We'll just have to wait to see if the players got religion this week and saved their season or if the descent into the Inferno of football mediocrity continues.
Stay tuned...
But perhaps that's about to change. Apparently after watching film of the Tampa Bay debacle on Monday, the offensive players had, as guard Daryn Colledge put it, "a come-to-Jesus meeting." According to at least one report, "With the coaches still in the room, the veteran leaders on offense, one by one, took turns addressing the rest of the unit...According to players who were in the room, Rodgers, tackle Mark Tauscher and receiver Donald Driver were the most powerful speakers."
While generally positive in tone, emphasizing what the squad is doing well -- they are ranked as the #7 offense, after all -- some blunt words were also spoken, so much so that word travelled quickly to the defensive unit and was received as a positive sign.
You can read more of the details via the link above.
Now, whether words alone can correct the plethora of mistakes that have plagued the Pack so far this season remains to be seen. But the Packers are apparently focused on this game versus the Cowboys in a way perhaps they haven't been yet this season for any other game...maybe not even the ViQueens games. In his news briefing with the media yesterday, Head Coach Mike McCarthy said, "Our message is very clear. The head coach has to coach better, the coaches have to coach better, the players have to play better, and we have to win games. That's our focus. We're going to apply all of our energy into this Dallas game plan. ... That's about as far down the road as we're looking. We're going to pour everything that we have into winning at home against the Cowboys. That's our focus." If you were to see footage of this statement you'd know this is about as serious as you'd ever see Mike McCarthy. Clearly, he is feeling the heat and knows that if things don't turn around and fast he could be on his way out.
Unfortunately, the injury bug seems to be biting the Packers at an inopportune time. RT Mark Tauscher is still questionable for Sunday and Allen Barbre also now has an injury which required rookie T. J. Lang to shift over from the left side to the right for the first time in practice. On the defensive side of things, not only is Aaron Kampman still questionable with his concussion, but Brady Popinga, who had replaced Kampman, is also injured. That means either rookie Brad Jones or second-year player Jeremy Thompson might get the start at outside linebacker.
So, another offensive line shuffle against a very good defense, and perhaps some new starters in key positions on the defense. Going against a team on a 4-game win streak. Yikes.
The team hasn't done anything to this point in the season to give fans confidence they can beat a good team. And after the game Sunday, we don't even have confidence about beating a horrible team. Depending upon what spread source you are looking at the game is either a toss up (really???) or the Cowboys are favored by 3 as of the time of this posting.
We'll just have to wait to see if the players got religion this week and saved their season or if the descent into the Inferno of football mediocrity continues.
Stay tuned...
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
As if we didn't already know: sacks are not good
Stating what football fans -- and especially, Packer fans these days -- know all too well, sportswriter Lori Nickel of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel today has a bit of an overview on what happens when a team's quarterback gets sacked too often. You get three guesses. And the first two don't count. Ding-ding-ding! You're correct, oh wise one! A lot of sacks on the QB translates to a lot of losses for the team. I know: who'da thunk it, right?
The article is worth checking out for the stats, as well as for the comments about the issue from Packers' coaches. For example, Head Coach Mike McCarthy insisting things are correctable. Hmmm...where have we heard that before? Gonna get things "cleaned up," eh, coach? As someone apparently responded on another blog (overheard it repeated on radio, just for attribution purposes), if Coach McCarthy was in charge of "cleaning up" the Lambeau Field bathrooms after games the place would be condemned.
So, with a league-high 37 sacks through 8 games the Packers are on track to come close to beating the record of 76 sacks set by the Houston Texans and David Carr in 2002. And with the Cowboys and LB DeMarcus Ware coming to town Sunday, and yet more shuffling on the offensive line because of injury if not performance, things don't look set for a turnaround anytime soon.
Post-game analysis, which was really more like mid-season review, brought out such points as the fact that various retired players (including a few QBs) have said that a review of all the Packers sacks shows that perhaps about half of them are due to Aaron Rodgers hanging on to the ball too long. That's another one of those obvious, "Ya think?!", statements. But part of that may also be due, as some of these same analysts suggest, because the Packers seem to be focused on a passing scheme that is all downfield, requiring deep drops by the QB and solid protection by the line for the play to develop. If the Packers worked more of a 3-step drop scheme, working slants and quick out pass plays, the line wouldn't have to protect as long and Rodgers wouldn't be holding the ball so long, i.e., less sacks overall. But as long as the scheme is what is, expect more of the same. And isn't that the definition of insanity? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
If the Packers are to resurrect their season -- and it is not too late...yet -- they have to work with what they have. They have a very good young quarterback, they have a great receiving corps, and a serviceable running game. What they also have is a sub-par offensive line that gives sieves a bad name. That means they need to shorten up the passing game and go to more quick-hit plays, the ol' dink 'n' dunk that somebody by the name of Brett Favre learned and executed so well and built a Hall of Fame career upon.
The question is, will McCarthy and offensive coordinator Joe Philbin go that route? We'll see if they are smart enough to make that adjustment...or continue doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. Not only the Packers season but their jobs depend on the answer.
The article is worth checking out for the stats, as well as for the comments about the issue from Packers' coaches. For example, Head Coach Mike McCarthy insisting things are correctable. Hmmm...where have we heard that before? Gonna get things "cleaned up," eh, coach? As someone apparently responded on another blog (overheard it repeated on radio, just for attribution purposes), if Coach McCarthy was in charge of "cleaning up" the Lambeau Field bathrooms after games the place would be condemned.
So, with a league-high 37 sacks through 8 games the Packers are on track to come close to beating the record of 76 sacks set by the Houston Texans and David Carr in 2002. And with the Cowboys and LB DeMarcus Ware coming to town Sunday, and yet more shuffling on the offensive line because of injury if not performance, things don't look set for a turnaround anytime soon.
Post-game analysis, which was really more like mid-season review, brought out such points as the fact that various retired players (including a few QBs) have said that a review of all the Packers sacks shows that perhaps about half of them are due to Aaron Rodgers hanging on to the ball too long. That's another one of those obvious, "Ya think?!", statements. But part of that may also be due, as some of these same analysts suggest, because the Packers seem to be focused on a passing scheme that is all downfield, requiring deep drops by the QB and solid protection by the line for the play to develop. If the Packers worked more of a 3-step drop scheme, working slants and quick out pass plays, the line wouldn't have to protect as long and Rodgers wouldn't be holding the ball so long, i.e., less sacks overall. But as long as the scheme is what is, expect more of the same. And isn't that the definition of insanity? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
If the Packers are to resurrect their season -- and it is not too late...yet -- they have to work with what they have. They have a very good young quarterback, they have a great receiving corps, and a serviceable running game. What they also have is a sub-par offensive line that gives sieves a bad name. That means they need to shorten up the passing game and go to more quick-hit plays, the ol' dink 'n' dunk that somebody by the name of Brett Favre learned and executed so well and built a Hall of Fame career upon.
The question is, will McCarthy and offensive coordinator Joe Philbin go that route? We'll see if they are smart enough to make that adjustment...or continue doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. Not only the Packers season but their jobs depend on the answer.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Packer woes
Just what the Packers needed: playing the Cowboys without Aaron Kampman. Turns out he got smacked in the jaw early in the Tampa Bay game and wound up with a small concussion. He played a good portion of the game, but as of yesterday was still feeling the effects. Kampman told reporters that he was just taking it day by day. Whether he's available for the game this Sunday against the Cowboys or not remains to be seen.
In addition to Kampman's questionable status, RT Mark Tauscher might also be out for the Cowboy's game. Tauscher, playing in his first game in almost a year, twisted the same knee that had been surgically repaired. Looks as if he may be sitting out this weekend. And that means yet another reshuffling across what is arguably one of the worst offensive lines in football at the moment. Get ready for yet more sacks on QB Aaron Rodgers.
There's a good recap article of the current state of affairs on the player and coaching front in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. You can check it out here.
In addition to Kampman's questionable status, RT Mark Tauscher might also be out for the Cowboy's game. Tauscher, playing in his first game in almost a year, twisted the same knee that had been surgically repaired. Looks as if he may be sitting out this weekend. And that means yet another reshuffling across what is arguably one of the worst offensive lines in football at the moment. Get ready for yet more sacks on QB Aaron Rodgers.
There's a good recap article of the current state of affairs on the player and coaching front in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. You can check it out here.
Monday, November 09, 2009
Packer fans united...and disgusted
The post-game call-in shows are brutal, the sports columns are dripping venom, and the blogs are ripping new you-know-whats all over the place.
In brief, Packer fans are united in disgust at where the Packers are halfway through this NFL season. And the tipping point for fan outrage was yesterday's loss to Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay! Great Ceasar's Ghost!
In what has to rank as one of the worst coaching performances in Packers' history, Head Coach Mike McCarthy and staff snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Showing a total inability to inspire a team to victory and correct mistakes that now go back a year-and-a-half, McCarthy at least had the honesty to tell reporters that the loss was on him. Well, at least you got that call correct, coach.
Some fans are beginning to make comparisons between the increasingly apparent coaching ineptitude of Coach McCarthy with that of the Bart Starr era (who, let's also say, was one of the great quarterbacks to ever play the game...just wasn't able to carry that over to coaching). That era began a long slide into the football netherworld for the franchise. The fear of many fans at this point is this: are we once again on the edge of a football abyss? The Ted Thompson haters in the crowd have been saying "yes" for some time because of personnel moves. Now, many fans are pointing the finger (which one, we won't say) at the coaching staff and saying "yes" as well.
The coaching staff's failures to address ongoing problems and witness them repeated week after mind-numbing week, is one element of this dissatisfaction. Failure to apparently make players accountable for their mistakes is another. Failure to put players in a position to succeed -- ala Aaron Kampman being taken totally out of his capabilities -- is yet one more. And special teams? Coach Shawn Slocum should be shown the door.
At least one of the Wisconsin sports pundits said that after yesterday's loss McCarthy is "on the clock." Fans shouldn't expect McCarthy to be booted during the season. But if the Packers don't make the playoffs -- which was a clear expectation going into the season -- and finish .500 or below (which looks like a distinct possibility at this point), McCarthy could be -- should be -- out.
Would Packers CEO Mark Murphy pull the trigger and also boot GM Ted Thompson at season's end? That's a bigger question. But it will also have to be addressed. Thompson's theory of building a team through the draft is one thing. Having the youngest team in the NFL four years in a row is another. Being fiscally responsible and having money available to sign free agents is one thing. Not using any of the nearly $20 million in cap room to sign free agents that could help improve a team is another.
There are no more loyal fans in football than Packer fans. That's because we know the game. And that's why the outcry about the current state of affairs is getting louder and louder. We expect more from players, coaches and the GM than we are getting.
Ahman Green gets the rushing record
Lost in yesterday's debacle was the fact that RB Ahman Green surpassed the great Jim Taylor's franchise rushing record of 8,207 yards which had lasted since 1966. Congrats to Ahman.
In brief, Packer fans are united in disgust at where the Packers are halfway through this NFL season. And the tipping point for fan outrage was yesterday's loss to Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay! Great Ceasar's Ghost!
In what has to rank as one of the worst coaching performances in Packers' history, Head Coach Mike McCarthy and staff snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Showing a total inability to inspire a team to victory and correct mistakes that now go back a year-and-a-half, McCarthy at least had the honesty to tell reporters that the loss was on him. Well, at least you got that call correct, coach.
Some fans are beginning to make comparisons between the increasingly apparent coaching ineptitude of Coach McCarthy with that of the Bart Starr era (who, let's also say, was one of the great quarterbacks to ever play the game...just wasn't able to carry that over to coaching). That era began a long slide into the football netherworld for the franchise. The fear of many fans at this point is this: are we once again on the edge of a football abyss? The Ted Thompson haters in the crowd have been saying "yes" for some time because of personnel moves. Now, many fans are pointing the finger (which one, we won't say) at the coaching staff and saying "yes" as well.
The coaching staff's failures to address ongoing problems and witness them repeated week after mind-numbing week, is one element of this dissatisfaction. Failure to apparently make players accountable for their mistakes is another. Failure to put players in a position to succeed -- ala Aaron Kampman being taken totally out of his capabilities -- is yet one more. And special teams? Coach Shawn Slocum should be shown the door.
At least one of the Wisconsin sports pundits said that after yesterday's loss McCarthy is "on the clock." Fans shouldn't expect McCarthy to be booted during the season. But if the Packers don't make the playoffs -- which was a clear expectation going into the season -- and finish .500 or below (which looks like a distinct possibility at this point), McCarthy could be -- should be -- out.
Would Packers CEO Mark Murphy pull the trigger and also boot GM Ted Thompson at season's end? That's a bigger question. But it will also have to be addressed. Thompson's theory of building a team through the draft is one thing. Having the youngest team in the NFL four years in a row is another. Being fiscally responsible and having money available to sign free agents is one thing. Not using any of the nearly $20 million in cap room to sign free agents that could help improve a team is another.
There are no more loyal fans in football than Packer fans. That's because we know the game. And that's why the outcry about the current state of affairs is getting louder and louder. We expect more from players, coaches and the GM than we are getting.
Ahman Green gets the rushing record
Lost in yesterday's debacle was the fact that RB Ahman Green surpassed the great Jim Taylor's franchise rushing record of 8,207 yards which had lasted since 1966. Congrats to Ahman.
Sunday, November 08, 2009
A new low: Pack loses to Tampa Bay
The Packers hit a season low today, losing to the heretofore winless Tampa Bay Buccaneers 38-28. The Bucs were 0-7 coming into this game, but had actually lost 11 in a row going back to last season.
In other games against bad teams, the Packers were able to overcome their own mistakes; not so this game. Six sacks, three interceptions, blocked punt for a TD, untimely penalties, special teams breakdowns, blown opportunities...the same ol' same ol'.
I'm sure coach Mike McCarthy will say something like, we'll take a look at the film and get it corrected. Coach, you've said that after every loss. And it's still not corrected. What is the problem? If a team continues to make the same mistakes over and over it's the coaching, not the players...although the problems with the offensive line are clearly obvious and have been for a long time.
Clearly, special teams has not improved. And how and why defensive coordinator Dom Capers wasn't able to bring enough pressure on a rookie QB to keep him from winning a game, is anyone's guess. But the ultimate responsibility lies with the head coach. And it seems as if that's the job that's not getting done.
The details of this loss will be recapped later. It's all too much to regurgitate, although that's about all that a fan feels like doing at this moment...yes, I want to hurl. The Packers got outcoached and outplayed. The Raymond James Stadium jinx hit again: the Pack has now lost 7 of 8 there.
The only good news of the day is that Da Bearz also lost, at home, against the Cardinals. Mediocrity is .500. And that's where both the Packers and Da Bearz sit at 4-4. And if you can't beat 0-7 Tampa, what chance is there of beating the Cowboys next Sunday? Not much. Especially being coached like this.
In other games against bad teams, the Packers were able to overcome their own mistakes; not so this game. Six sacks, three interceptions, blocked punt for a TD, untimely penalties, special teams breakdowns, blown opportunities...the same ol' same ol'.
I'm sure coach Mike McCarthy will say something like, we'll take a look at the film and get it corrected. Coach, you've said that after every loss. And it's still not corrected. What is the problem? If a team continues to make the same mistakes over and over it's the coaching, not the players...although the problems with the offensive line are clearly obvious and have been for a long time.
Clearly, special teams has not improved. And how and why defensive coordinator Dom Capers wasn't able to bring enough pressure on a rookie QB to keep him from winning a game, is anyone's guess. But the ultimate responsibility lies with the head coach. And it seems as if that's the job that's not getting done.
The details of this loss will be recapped later. It's all too much to regurgitate, although that's about all that a fan feels like doing at this moment...yes, I want to hurl. The Packers got outcoached and outplayed. The Raymond James Stadium jinx hit again: the Pack has now lost 7 of 8 there.
The only good news of the day is that Da Bearz also lost, at home, against the Cardinals. Mediocrity is .500. And that's where both the Packers and Da Bearz sit at 4-4. And if you can't beat 0-7 Tampa, what chance is there of beating the Cowboys next Sunday? Not much. Especially being coached like this.
Halftime: Packers 21 - Buccaneers 17
Goofy half.
That's about the only thing you can say. And frustrating. And numbingly typical this season. Big plays for the Packers. Big plays for the opponents. Blown opportunities.
The Packers started strong, albeit after the now ubiquitous penalty on punt/kick returns (is there any fan left who doesn't automatically look for a penalty flag on returns?); this penalty took about 30 yards off a nice Tramon Williams' punt return. But on the second play from scrimmage, Aaron Rodgers hit James Jones for a 74-yard touchdown pass, the longest of Rodgers' career. Packers go up 7-0.
The defense proceeds to get the ball back, but Rodgers got greedy on throw to Donald Driver and got picked off; Rodgers himself wound up making the tackle at the Packers' 8-yard line. A few plays later, the rookie QB, Josh Freeman, tossed his first career TD pass. 7-7.
The Packers then put a nice drive together, combining passes and runs. They capped it off with a 2-yard TD run by Ryan Grant. Packers 14-7.
The next time the Packers got the ball back, they wound up punting. Only problem was, nobody apparently informed some of the blockers that their job was, in fact, to block. There was a big rush, someone came through untouched and blocked the punt. Ronde Barber picked up the ball and took it in for a TD. 14-14.
The Packers responded with a nice drive, scoring their third TD of the day on a 32-yard pass from Rodgers to Driver, to make the score 21-14.
In the last 6 or 7 minutes of the 3rd quarter, the Packers started their possession twice inside the Buccaneers' 50-yard line, once off a poor punt and the next time on an interception by Nick Collins. The only problem was the Pack went 3 and out on both possessions. The last time around, the Buccaneers drove the ball from deep in their own end of the field down to make a field goal as time ran out in the half. Packers 21 - Buccaneers 17.
So, the Raymond James goofy factor seems to be emerging. This game is far closer that it needs to be, than it should be. Oh, and Tampa Bay missed its first field goal attempt from 45 yards, with their new kicker or it would be closer still.
With a team that is near the bottom in rushing defense, the Packers' play calling has been split 16-15 rush to pass. The Packers have 77 yards rushing. Rodgers is just 7 for 15.
It seems as easily as the switch seems to come on for big plays it can just as easily vanish. For the 8th game of the season, the inconsistency of this team is maddening. The defense, which played well throughout the half, not really responsible for either of the 2 Tampa touchdowns, basically allowed a rookie QB to march down the field in the last 2 minutes of the half to get 3 points.
The Packers better get it together in the second half. The Buccaneers may be 0-7 but the Packers are letting them stay in the game as if they are 7-0. Not good.
That's about the only thing you can say. And frustrating. And numbingly typical this season. Big plays for the Packers. Big plays for the opponents. Blown opportunities.
The Packers started strong, albeit after the now ubiquitous penalty on punt/kick returns (is there any fan left who doesn't automatically look for a penalty flag on returns?); this penalty took about 30 yards off a nice Tramon Williams' punt return. But on the second play from scrimmage, Aaron Rodgers hit James Jones for a 74-yard touchdown pass, the longest of Rodgers' career. Packers go up 7-0.
The defense proceeds to get the ball back, but Rodgers got greedy on throw to Donald Driver and got picked off; Rodgers himself wound up making the tackle at the Packers' 8-yard line. A few plays later, the rookie QB, Josh Freeman, tossed his first career TD pass. 7-7.
The Packers then put a nice drive together, combining passes and runs. They capped it off with a 2-yard TD run by Ryan Grant. Packers 14-7.
The next time the Packers got the ball back, they wound up punting. Only problem was, nobody apparently informed some of the blockers that their job was, in fact, to block. There was a big rush, someone came through untouched and blocked the punt. Ronde Barber picked up the ball and took it in for a TD. 14-14.
The Packers responded with a nice drive, scoring their third TD of the day on a 32-yard pass from Rodgers to Driver, to make the score 21-14.
In the last 6 or 7 minutes of the 3rd quarter, the Packers started their possession twice inside the Buccaneers' 50-yard line, once off a poor punt and the next time on an interception by Nick Collins. The only problem was the Pack went 3 and out on both possessions. The last time around, the Buccaneers drove the ball from deep in their own end of the field down to make a field goal as time ran out in the half. Packers 21 - Buccaneers 17.
So, the Raymond James goofy factor seems to be emerging. This game is far closer that it needs to be, than it should be. Oh, and Tampa Bay missed its first field goal attempt from 45 yards, with their new kicker or it would be closer still.
With a team that is near the bottom in rushing defense, the Packers' play calling has been split 16-15 rush to pass. The Packers have 77 yards rushing. Rodgers is just 7 for 15.
It seems as easily as the switch seems to come on for big plays it can just as easily vanish. For the 8th game of the season, the inconsistency of this team is maddening. The defense, which played well throughout the half, not really responsible for either of the 2 Tampa touchdowns, basically allowed a rookie QB to march down the field in the last 2 minutes of the half to get 3 points.
The Packers better get it together in the second half. The Buccaneers may be 0-7 but the Packers are letting them stay in the game as if they are 7-0. Not good.
Packers -Buccaneers Preview
If it's one thing we know about the Packers over the last two years it is that they will beat inferior teams. The problem arises, as we also know, against teams with winning records; the Packers have only beaten teams with winning records twice in the last two years.
So, given that Tampa Bay has yet to win a game this season, is there any reason to fear a loss? Well, anything can happen, of course. But the oddsmakers have the Packers as 9-1/2 point favorites. That is on the light side in the opinion of this observer.
If the Pack ever is able to get a running game going, today should be the day. The Buccaneers are giving up over 162 yards per game, 30th in the league. Granted, the Packers offensive line hasn't exactly been able to do great things in the rushing game this season...or the pass protection game, either, for that matter. But, LT Chad Clifton will be starting once again, and RT Mark Tauscher will also be making a start today, his first in roughly a year after coming off serious knee injury and rehab time. Let's see what the old boys can do, both to help get Ryan Grant and maybe even Ahman Green going a bit. And, especially, to help keep QB Aaron Rodgers vertical today. Rodgers was held out of practice until Friday so his foot and toe sprains could heal a bit...although I'm sure the rest of his body also appreciated a few days of rest given the beating it's taken through the first seven games.
Tampa Bay will be starting a new quarterback today, rookie Josh Freeman. This is something like the Buccaneers' 15th starting QB in the last seven years. Yikes. But if this doesn't set up as a perfect opportunity for the defense to generate turnovers today I don't know what will.
Now, there is the jinx that seems to descend on the Packers when they visit Raymond James Stadium. Weird things happen. And if memory serves (don't count on it), the Packers have only won once there. Guys get hurt, strange plays occur. Now, throw in the fact that the Buccaneers will be in their throwback creamsicle/dreamsicle uniforms from their early days of -- what -- the late 70s? Those uniforms were associated with losing teams that set standards for other losing teams to aspire to (I know, the grammar of that sentence leaves much to be desired, sorry, but you get the point...which is the point, right?)
Anyway, with about an hour or so to kickoff, we're putting this one in the "W" column for the Pack.
We're calling it 34-10 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
Jason Spitz out for season
After dealing with an unspecified lower back problem since mid-October, the Packers decided to place starting center Jason Spitz on injured reserve, thus ending what started as a promising season for Spitz. Spitz had beaten out incumbent Scott Wells for the starting spot. He was not responding to treatment and after getting a second opinion that confirmed that of the Packers team doctor, the decision was made to put Spitz on season-ending IR.
Spitz's spot on the roster is now being taken by WR Biren Ealy who got promoted from the practice squad. Ealy has only had two weeks of practice with the Packers. According to reports, the decision to move Ealy up to the regular roster came because WR Donald Driver is still feeling effects of a neck injury and WR Jake Allen, who was promoted after WR Jordy Nelson was knocked to the sidelines for a few weeks with his knee injury, is questionable with a thigh injury.
So, given that Tampa Bay has yet to win a game this season, is there any reason to fear a loss? Well, anything can happen, of course. But the oddsmakers have the Packers as 9-1/2 point favorites. That is on the light side in the opinion of this observer.
If the Pack ever is able to get a running game going, today should be the day. The Buccaneers are giving up over 162 yards per game, 30th in the league. Granted, the Packers offensive line hasn't exactly been able to do great things in the rushing game this season...or the pass protection game, either, for that matter. But, LT Chad Clifton will be starting once again, and RT Mark Tauscher will also be making a start today, his first in roughly a year after coming off serious knee injury and rehab time. Let's see what the old boys can do, both to help get Ryan Grant and maybe even Ahman Green going a bit. And, especially, to help keep QB Aaron Rodgers vertical today. Rodgers was held out of practice until Friday so his foot and toe sprains could heal a bit...although I'm sure the rest of his body also appreciated a few days of rest given the beating it's taken through the first seven games.
Tampa Bay will be starting a new quarterback today, rookie Josh Freeman. This is something like the Buccaneers' 15th starting QB in the last seven years. Yikes. But if this doesn't set up as a perfect opportunity for the defense to generate turnovers today I don't know what will.
Now, there is the jinx that seems to descend on the Packers when they visit Raymond James Stadium. Weird things happen. And if memory serves (don't count on it), the Packers have only won once there. Guys get hurt, strange plays occur. Now, throw in the fact that the Buccaneers will be in their throwback creamsicle/dreamsicle uniforms from their early days of -- what -- the late 70s? Those uniforms were associated with losing teams that set standards for other losing teams to aspire to (I know, the grammar of that sentence leaves much to be desired, sorry, but you get the point...which is the point, right?)
Anyway, with about an hour or so to kickoff, we're putting this one in the "W" column for the Pack.
We're calling it 34-10 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
Jason Spitz out for season
After dealing with an unspecified lower back problem since mid-October, the Packers decided to place starting center Jason Spitz on injured reserve, thus ending what started as a promising season for Spitz. Spitz had beaten out incumbent Scott Wells for the starting spot. He was not responding to treatment and after getting a second opinion that confirmed that of the Packers team doctor, the decision was made to put Spitz on season-ending IR.
Spitz's spot on the roster is now being taken by WR Biren Ealy who got promoted from the practice squad. Ealy has only had two weeks of practice with the Packers. According to reports, the decision to move Ealy up to the regular roster came because WR Donald Driver is still feeling effects of a neck injury and WR Jake Allen, who was promoted after WR Jordy Nelson was knocked to the sidelines for a few weeks with his knee injury, is questionable with a thigh injury.
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Clifton & Tauscher to start?
Does working as the main offensive tackles during practice mean those same players will start the upcoming game? Why not, especially if they are veterans Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher. Clifton replaced rookie T. J. Lang and Tauscher replaced Allen Barbre for most of the snaps Wednesday with the #1 offense.
With the state of the O-line being similar to a sieve so far this season, let's hope that these veterans -- both coming off injuries, including one major knee rehab in the case of Tauscher -- are able to help keep QB Aaron Rodgers upright. Rodgers, BTW, did not practice yesterday as he is still gimping around with a sprained foot and a sprained toe on the other foot. With the pounding he's taken in the form of 31 sacks it's a wonder that's all that's injured.
Clearly, if Rodgers doesn't get better protection from here on out he won't last the season. Clifton and Tauscher can hopefully give him a fighting chance...as long as they stay healthy, that is. And, longer term, Ted Thompson must address the offensive line situation which has been a problem basically since Thompson's been in the GM seat. But that's a story for another day.
The score that never happened before
According to ProFootballTalk.com, as reported by 620WTMJ radio (got that reporting lineage?), the 38-26 final score of Sunday's game has never occurred before in the history of the NFL. In this case, not the kind of first a team really wants to be part of, is it?
With the state of the O-line being similar to a sieve so far this season, let's hope that these veterans -- both coming off injuries, including one major knee rehab in the case of Tauscher -- are able to help keep QB Aaron Rodgers upright. Rodgers, BTW, did not practice yesterday as he is still gimping around with a sprained foot and a sprained toe on the other foot. With the pounding he's taken in the form of 31 sacks it's a wonder that's all that's injured.
Clearly, if Rodgers doesn't get better protection from here on out he won't last the season. Clifton and Tauscher can hopefully give him a fighting chance...as long as they stay healthy, that is. And, longer term, Ted Thompson must address the offensive line situation which has been a problem basically since Thompson's been in the GM seat. But that's a story for another day.
The score that never happened before
According to ProFootballTalk.com, as reported by 620WTMJ radio (got that reporting lineage?), the 38-26 final score of Sunday's game has never occurred before in the history of the NFL. In this case, not the kind of first a team really wants to be part of, is it?
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Offseason comparison of Pack - Vikes
Let's move from the gutwrenching emotional loss to the guys in funky purple "uniforms" to a more rational comparison of the Packers and ViQueens. Thankfully, one of the very good sportswriters at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Tom Silverstein, has done it so you are spared my ramblings.
Silverstein begins by stating the obvious: right now, the 'Queens are a better team that the Packers. And then he goes on to point out some other disturbing stats. For example, "...only two of the Packers' 10 victories since 2008 have been against teams that had a winning record at the time (Indianapolis and Chicago in '08)...". Yeah, that's not good.
And here's another fact that will make the heads of the Ted Thompson haters explode: "The Vikings have added at least one big-time player each of the last four years and are to the point now where they may have as many as 11 players selected to the Pro Bowl this year." Bottom line, as Silverstein writes, is that "It doesn't take a football genius to figure out who has been doing the better job acquiring talent."
Dang, ya just hate to go quite that far. That's the kind of statement that makes your stomach start to churn. Or, at least, if not those of Packers' fans then those of Mark Murphy, Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy.
Hope they read Silverstein's article. But if they don't you can do so here. Well worth it.
Silverstein begins by stating the obvious: right now, the 'Queens are a better team that the Packers. And then he goes on to point out some other disturbing stats. For example, "...only two of the Packers' 10 victories since 2008 have been against teams that had a winning record at the time (Indianapolis and Chicago in '08)...". Yeah, that's not good.
And here's another fact that will make the heads of the Ted Thompson haters explode: "The Vikings have added at least one big-time player each of the last four years and are to the point now where they may have as many as 11 players selected to the Pro Bowl this year." Bottom line, as Silverstein writes, is that "It doesn't take a football genius to figure out who has been doing the better job acquiring talent."
Dang, ya just hate to go quite that far. That's the kind of statement that makes your stomach start to churn. Or, at least, if not those of Packers' fans then those of Mark Murphy, Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy.
Hope they read Silverstein's article. But if they don't you can do so here. Well worth it.
Monday, November 02, 2009
Rodgers showing effects of sacks
After taking another 6 sacks yesterday -- and a league-leading 31 after just 7 games -- it's no wonder that Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is not feeling particularly good at this point of the season.
Rodgers was noticeably limping before the end of yesterday's game vs. the ViQueens. Turns out the nagging sprain he's had in one foot got aggravated, and now is joined by a sprained toe on the other foot. Still, Rodgers is expected to be under center when the Packers play at Tampa Bay on Sunday. Although to be honest, this is a game one would think the back up QB could win. Would be nice to have Rodgers get some needed rest from the physical abuse he's taking via the sieve-like nature of the O-line and his own penchant for taking a sack over getting rid of the ball.
One of the other big injuries that came out of the game yesterday was a broken hand on LB Brandon Chillar. He had surgery on it today and is expected to be out at least 2 weeks before returning to play with a cast.
On another matter, this second loss to the 'Queens has for the second time prompted a player on defense to question schemes and how players are being used. First time around it was Charles Woodson; this time, it's Cullen Jenkins. And if it hasn't already happened, you can be sure that Jenkins, like Woodson, will have a little one-on-one time with one of the coaches to remind him about not airing things like this in public. Oh, sure, we like hearing about these things...but the coaching staff doesn't.
If you want to catch up on some of these things in more detail, check here for a good summary article in Yahoo Sports.
And, yes, it's OK to still be very bummed out about the result of yesterday's game.
Rodgers was noticeably limping before the end of yesterday's game vs. the ViQueens. Turns out the nagging sprain he's had in one foot got aggravated, and now is joined by a sprained toe on the other foot. Still, Rodgers is expected to be under center when the Packers play at Tampa Bay on Sunday. Although to be honest, this is a game one would think the back up QB could win. Would be nice to have Rodgers get some needed rest from the physical abuse he's taking via the sieve-like nature of the O-line and his own penchant for taking a sack over getting rid of the ball.
One of the other big injuries that came out of the game yesterday was a broken hand on LB Brandon Chillar. He had surgery on it today and is expected to be out at least 2 weeks before returning to play with a cast.
On another matter, this second loss to the 'Queens has for the second time prompted a player on defense to question schemes and how players are being used. First time around it was Charles Woodson; this time, it's Cullen Jenkins. And if it hasn't already happened, you can be sure that Jenkins, like Woodson, will have a little one-on-one time with one of the coaches to remind him about not airing things like this in public. Oh, sure, we like hearing about these things...but the coaching staff doesn't.
If you want to catch up on some of these things in more detail, check here for a good summary article in Yahoo Sports.
And, yes, it's OK to still be very bummed out about the result of yesterday's game.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Packers lose to ViQueens, 38-26
In a game of ups and downs -- mainly on the Packers side of things -- the Pack once again came up short against the ViQueens and Ol' #4. The game looked like it would be a blow out after halftime, but the Packers rallied and made a game of it almost till the end. But making a game of it and winning the game are not the same thing.
Once again, the Packers slipped back into a mode of play similar to several weeks ago: penalties, special teams breakdowns, missed field goal, missed turnover opportunities, no sacks on Brett Favre and sacks allowed on Aaron Rodgers. And those errors, as in the first game, cost the Packers. They didn't against lesser opponents; they did against the 'Queens.
The result is that Favre swept the Pack, and the 'Queens are 3 games up in the North Division at roughly half-way through the schedule. Unless Minnesota does one of their typical fold-a-roonies (been known to happen), the Packers will likely be battling for a wild card spot in the playoffs. Anything can still happen. But this is the reality of where things stand now, with the Packers at 4-3 going into their game next week at Tampa Bay.
There will no doubt be much more to say upon further reflection. But for now...it's over...and we're out.
Once again, the Packers slipped back into a mode of play similar to several weeks ago: penalties, special teams breakdowns, missed field goal, missed turnover opportunities, no sacks on Brett Favre and sacks allowed on Aaron Rodgers. And those errors, as in the first game, cost the Packers. They didn't against lesser opponents; they did against the 'Queens.
The result is that Favre swept the Pack, and the 'Queens are 3 games up in the North Division at roughly half-way through the schedule. Unless Minnesota does one of their typical fold-a-roonies (been known to happen), the Packers will likely be battling for a wild card spot in the playoffs. Anything can still happen. But this is the reality of where things stand now, with the Packers at 4-3 going into their game next week at Tampa Bay.
There will no doubt be much more to say upon further reflection. But for now...it's over...and we're out.
Packers - ViQueens Game 2 Preview
Perhaps this post should be subtitled, "The Day the Earth Stood Still: Brett Favre Returns to Lambeau Field." Others have taken to calling this day Favre-a-Palooza and Favreaggedon. OK, headbanging...yes, the ultimate end-times battle...um, no. Sure, the game will likely be another ratings winner for Fox Sports. They are supposedly going to even new lengths to hype this game via a "Favre cam," a camera dedicated to following Favre all over the field, including the sidelines.
The question which has dominated Wisconsin sports media all week, both print and broadcast, has been how the fans will react -- should react -- when Ol' #4 enters the playing field. The growing consensus seems to be that, as there will be no individual introductions of ViQueens players, fans should -- as they usually do -- boo vociferously the entire 'Queens team, including Favre, when they enter onto the Frozen Tundra. Yes. Definitely. And, just as vociferously, cheer the Pack -- and especially, Aaron Rodgers -- when the players are introduced.
On ESPN, the pundits discussed how Favre will handle the game. Favre admits to being nervous. Not surprising. Tom Jackson said Favre's comments about his current team being the best he's ever played on -- and thus disrespecting the Reggie White-led Super Bowl teams -- really left fans with a bad taste in their mouths (paraphrasing)...as if there wasn't a bad taste there before.
Former Packers LeRoy Butler and Gilbert Brown spoke to the Favre situation and comments recently as well. Butler said "If you're not in Green 'n' Gold then I don't root for you." Brown, speaking to Favre's "best team" comment on ESPN radio earlier this week, said Jared Allen "couldn't hold Reggie White's jockstrap." Gilbert always did have a way with words. When asked if he would look forward to sacking Favre if he had the chance, he said he would definitely do so. "I wouldn't do the 'Grave Digger' on him (Brown's post-sack celebration move) but I would fart on him." Thank you, Gilbert. May we have another?
Anyway, lots of verbal banter on both sides of things. But to the Packers' players credit, they just seem focused on the task at hand. And well they should. If they beat the 'Queens today they go to 5-2 on the season and travel to Tampa Bay for what is expected to be another win next weekend, taking them to 6-2. The 'Queens, on the other hand, with a loss today will be 6-2 with their bye week coming up. Thus, the Packers and ViQueens could essentially be all tied up 2 weeks from now. That's if the Pack wins today.
The bottom line today
The spread is the Pack by 3, the old home field advantage line. The teams are a little different than when playing a few weeks ago. The Packers are arguably a bit deeper, especially on the offensive line and defensive backfield. The ViQueens are arguably a bit weaker, particularly in the defensive backfield and at receiver. The Packers need to reprise the great defensive job they did on 'Queens RB Adrian Peterson.
But they need to find a way to get pressure on Favre. Interesting stat: the Packers blitzed on just 16.7% of passes in the first meeting in Minnesota and the results, as we know, were not good; you can't give Favre time to throw. Last Sunday in their game at Pittsburgh, the Steelers blitzed Minnesota an estimated 60% of the time. Result? Steelers got to Favre and got a win. It's a definite balancing act for Packers defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. S Atari Bigby was out for the Pack last time around and there were major communication breakdowns in the defensive backfield. It's been bandied about that that was one of the main reasons Capers didn't blitz more in that game: he just didn't trust the backup safety, Derrick Martin, to be in proper cover positions. But Bigby's back. LB Aaron Kampman has begun playing some down pass rush positions and getting to the QB like the good ol' days. Rookie LB Clay Matthews shows he knows how to create some problems. If ever there was a time when the defense can show that the last couple games against mediocre opponents weren't just flukes, this is it.
I think the offensive line will help Ryan Grant -- and maybe even Ahman Green -- to get some runs going; that will help the passing game. I believe that they will do a better job protecting Aaron Rodgers. And I believe the Packers defense will do enough to keep Peterson and Favre in check.
Favre is wearing that funky purple. As Michael Corleone in The Godfather II told his brother Fredo after a betrayal, and we can say to Favre (until the time he returns in his retirement glory to Green Bay, of course): "You're dead to me. You're nothing to me now; you're not a brother, you're not a friend; I don't want to know you or what you do." Boo every time Favre touches the ball. Let him hear the wrath of Lambeau and Lombardi!
It will be a close one, as most of these games are. The home field advantage will count for a lot today. In fact, it might just be the difference.
We're drinking the Green 'n' Gold kool-aid again, Packers fans. We can do no less. Packers 20 - ViQueens 17.
Go Pack Go!!!
The question which has dominated Wisconsin sports media all week, both print and broadcast, has been how the fans will react -- should react -- when Ol' #4 enters the playing field. The growing consensus seems to be that, as there will be no individual introductions of ViQueens players, fans should -- as they usually do -- boo vociferously the entire 'Queens team, including Favre, when they enter onto the Frozen Tundra. Yes. Definitely. And, just as vociferously, cheer the Pack -- and especially, Aaron Rodgers -- when the players are introduced.
On ESPN, the pundits discussed how Favre will handle the game. Favre admits to being nervous. Not surprising. Tom Jackson said Favre's comments about his current team being the best he's ever played on -- and thus disrespecting the Reggie White-led Super Bowl teams -- really left fans with a bad taste in their mouths (paraphrasing)...as if there wasn't a bad taste there before.
Former Packers LeRoy Butler and Gilbert Brown spoke to the Favre situation and comments recently as well. Butler said "If you're not in Green 'n' Gold then I don't root for you." Brown, speaking to Favre's "best team" comment on ESPN radio earlier this week, said Jared Allen "couldn't hold Reggie White's jockstrap." Gilbert always did have a way with words. When asked if he would look forward to sacking Favre if he had the chance, he said he would definitely do so. "I wouldn't do the 'Grave Digger' on him (Brown's post-sack celebration move) but I would fart on him." Thank you, Gilbert. May we have another?
Anyway, lots of verbal banter on both sides of things. But to the Packers' players credit, they just seem focused on the task at hand. And well they should. If they beat the 'Queens today they go to 5-2 on the season and travel to Tampa Bay for what is expected to be another win next weekend, taking them to 6-2. The 'Queens, on the other hand, with a loss today will be 6-2 with their bye week coming up. Thus, the Packers and ViQueens could essentially be all tied up 2 weeks from now. That's if the Pack wins today.
The bottom line today
The spread is the Pack by 3, the old home field advantage line. The teams are a little different than when playing a few weeks ago. The Packers are arguably a bit deeper, especially on the offensive line and defensive backfield. The ViQueens are arguably a bit weaker, particularly in the defensive backfield and at receiver. The Packers need to reprise the great defensive job they did on 'Queens RB Adrian Peterson.
But they need to find a way to get pressure on Favre. Interesting stat: the Packers blitzed on just 16.7% of passes in the first meeting in Minnesota and the results, as we know, were not good; you can't give Favre time to throw. Last Sunday in their game at Pittsburgh, the Steelers blitzed Minnesota an estimated 60% of the time. Result? Steelers got to Favre and got a win. It's a definite balancing act for Packers defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. S Atari Bigby was out for the Pack last time around and there were major communication breakdowns in the defensive backfield. It's been bandied about that that was one of the main reasons Capers didn't blitz more in that game: he just didn't trust the backup safety, Derrick Martin, to be in proper cover positions. But Bigby's back. LB Aaron Kampman has begun playing some down pass rush positions and getting to the QB like the good ol' days. Rookie LB Clay Matthews shows he knows how to create some problems. If ever there was a time when the defense can show that the last couple games against mediocre opponents weren't just flukes, this is it.
I think the offensive line will help Ryan Grant -- and maybe even Ahman Green -- to get some runs going; that will help the passing game. I believe that they will do a better job protecting Aaron Rodgers. And I believe the Packers defense will do enough to keep Peterson and Favre in check.
Favre is wearing that funky purple. As Michael Corleone in The Godfather II told his brother Fredo after a betrayal, and we can say to Favre (until the time he returns in his retirement glory to Green Bay, of course): "You're dead to me. You're nothing to me now; you're not a brother, you're not a friend; I don't want to know you or what you do." Boo every time Favre touches the ball. Let him hear the wrath of Lambeau and Lombardi!
It will be a close one, as most of these games are. The home field advantage will count for a lot today. In fact, it might just be the difference.
We're drinking the Green 'n' Gold kool-aid again, Packers fans. We can do no less. Packers 20 - ViQueens 17.
Go Pack Go!!!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Rodgers NFC Offensive Player of the Month
With all the discussion this week -- and many others -- about Green Bay's old quarterback, lost in the shuffle to a degree is the Packers' current QB. That would be a shame because Aaron Rodgers has just been named the NFC Offensive Player of the Month. Congrats, Mr. Rodgers!
Here's the official announcement from the Pack with all the details:
"Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is the Offensive Player of the Month for October, the NFL announced today. Rodgers led the Packers to a 2-1 record and posted an NFL-best 123.9 passer rating during the month. He passed for 988 yards in October and averaged a league-high 329.3 yards per game. Rodgers completed an NFC-best 74.5 percent of his passes (70 of 94) during October and his 10.51 yards per attempt mark led the league. He had a passer rating of at least 110 in all three games, including a near-perfect 155.4 mark in Week 7 at Cleveland, the highest single-game total in franchise history. Rodgers has now posted a 110+ rating in four consecutive games, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Bart Starr (1966) as the only Packers to accomplish the feat. In his fifth season from California, this is Rodgers' first career Player of the Month Award. He is the second Packer to win a monthly award this year, joining Charles Woodson (Defense, September). The last Green Bay quarterback to win a monthly award was Brett Favre (November 2004)."
Read that one statement again: "Rodgers has now posted a 110+ rating in four consecutive games, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Bart Starr (1966) as the only Packers to accomplish the feat." And his passer rating of 123.9 during the month was also the best in the league...and he averaged a league-high 329.3 yards per game. Holy Air Rodgers, Batman!
So, while fans might take a trip down memory lane on Sunday, let's also feel very good about the memories yet to come. Very good.
Here's the official announcement from the Pack with all the details:
"Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is the Offensive Player of the Month for October, the NFL announced today. Rodgers led the Packers to a 2-1 record and posted an NFL-best 123.9 passer rating during the month. He passed for 988 yards in October and averaged a league-high 329.3 yards per game. Rodgers completed an NFC-best 74.5 percent of his passes (70 of 94) during October and his 10.51 yards per attempt mark led the league. He had a passer rating of at least 110 in all three games, including a near-perfect 155.4 mark in Week 7 at Cleveland, the highest single-game total in franchise history. Rodgers has now posted a 110+ rating in four consecutive games, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Bart Starr (1966) as the only Packers to accomplish the feat. In his fifth season from California, this is Rodgers' first career Player of the Month Award. He is the second Packer to win a monthly award this year, joining Charles Woodson (Defense, September). The last Green Bay quarterback to win a monthly award was Brett Favre (November 2004)."
Read that one statement again: "Rodgers has now posted a 110+ rating in four consecutive games, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Bart Starr (1966) as the only Packers to accomplish the feat." And his passer rating of 123.9 during the month was also the best in the league...and he averaged a league-high 329.3 yards per game. Holy Air Rodgers, Batman!
So, while fans might take a trip down memory lane on Sunday, let's also feel very good about the memories yet to come. Very good.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
What to do when Brett returns?
This is a question which has been kicked about since the moment the Packers world knew Ol' #4 would be playing in the funky purple for the ViQueens: how should/will fans react when Brett Favre re-enters Lambeau Field? It's been discussed on sports talk radio and TV, in print and, yes, even in this blog where one of the ideas floated was to basically stand (or sit) in silence, turning one's back as if in a shunning ceremony. No boos, no cheers, just a turning of the back to "stick it" to Brett to reciprocate for his manipulating things to be able to play with this hated division rival so he could "stick it" to the Packers. Seems reasonable. Or not, depending upon perspective.
And there are many perspectives on this issue. One of the more reasoned ones is in today's online Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel by sports editor Garry D. Howard. He makes a compelling case for a bit of a middle path (the Buddha would be proud): cheering Brett loudly when he enters the stadium as a sign of gratitude for all he did for the Packers; then booing him just as vociferously (look it up) during the 60 minutes of play. As Howard states, "Deep down, he is a Green Bay Packer. And you know this. The hate you feel is just the passion that burns for the Green and Gold, not your true feelings about a player that some of you even named your sons after. So when No. 4 enters the building from which he was so famously extricated, show your class."
It seems, though, that a majority of Packer fans (or at least, those responding to the online poll) aren't quite on the same page with Mr. Howard about this. As of the time of this posting, more than 13,000 readers have voted on the Journal-Sentinel poll. And here are the results...
If you're in the stands at Lambeau Field when Brett Favre is introduced, do you boo or cheer him?
You can read Howard's article here. You can also find the poll there if you care to voice your opinion.
Or... you can vote in our own poll -- found in the righthand column -- and let us know how you think the fans should react when Brett enters Lambeau.
Well...we're waiting!
And there are many perspectives on this issue. One of the more reasoned ones is in today's online Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel by sports editor Garry D. Howard. He makes a compelling case for a bit of a middle path (the Buddha would be proud): cheering Brett loudly when he enters the stadium as a sign of gratitude for all he did for the Packers; then booing him just as vociferously (look it up) during the 60 minutes of play. As Howard states, "Deep down, he is a Green Bay Packer. And you know this. The hate you feel is just the passion that burns for the Green and Gold, not your true feelings about a player that some of you even named your sons after. So when No. 4 enters the building from which he was so famously extricated, show your class."
It seems, though, that a majority of Packer fans (or at least, those responding to the online poll) aren't quite on the same page with Mr. Howard about this. As of the time of this posting, more than 13,000 readers have voted on the Journal-Sentinel poll. And here are the results...
If you're in the stands at Lambeau Field when Brett Favre is introduced, do you boo or cheer him?
- Boo him (49%)
- Cheer him (31%)
- Do nothing (20%)
You can read Howard's article here. You can also find the poll there if you care to voice your opinion.
Or... you can vote in our own poll -- found in the righthand column -- and let us know how you think the fans should react when Brett enters Lambeau.
Well...we're waiting!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Packer bliss
Is it just me, or does the day after a Packers victory just have an afterglow that doesn't compare with anything. Well...OK...maybe there are a few things but that's a little TMI (too much information, for you acronym-challenged out there), thank you very much.
We are blissing out today not only because of the Packers win, but because we hit the trifecta yesterday: the victory by the Pack, a loss by Da Bearz (a humiliating loss...regrets to my friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan...but even he knows that's true), and a heartbreaking loss by Ol' #4 and his fellow ViQueens. Ahhhhh....it's great to be a Packers fan!
We'll return later on to talk a bit, maybe, about yesterday's victory. But mainly, we'll be looking ahead to the game coming up on Sunday. The rematch. The game that will show whether the Packers are in fact to be counted among the better teams in the league, or whether they still have a ways to go.
But a few things to chew on in the meantime.
Head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters today that TE Jermichael Finley will likely miss the ViQueens game because of a knee sprain suffered yesterday. WR Brett Swain was apparently also injured yesterday and will have knee surgery; he's done for the season. WR and returner Jordy Nelson is still out "a couple more weeks" according to McCarthy with the knee sprain he suffered last week. So that takes the Pack down to just 5 healthy receivers and tight ends. Not much room for more knocks to the depth chart there. To that end, McCarthy said, "We'll acquire another receiver definitely. We're working through (that) right now. Personnel department is looking at their options. We'll probably make a decision in the next 24 hours." McCarthy noted that moving up Jake Allen from the practice squad is a "definite possibility."
The Packers will be getting Chad Clifton back into practice this week, and Jason Spitz will also be evaluated. Mark Tauscher and newly-signed Ahman Green will be evaluated to see how they fit into the game plan for the Vikes. McCarthy indicated that going into this week of practice the Packers will go with the offensive line that finished the Browns game: rookie LT T.J. Lang (who again acquitted himself quite well), LG Daryn Colledge, C Scott Wells, RG Josh Sitton and RT Allen Barbre. Of special note from yesterday was the fact that for the first time this year Aaron Rodgers was not sacked. Yes, you read that right. No sacks.
The Packers defense has been nothing short of great over the last several games. Granted, not exactly the highest calibre teams on the planet. But still. Here's a few stats to mull over.
Is that enough of a mouthful to chew on for a while?
We are blissing out today not only because of the Packers win, but because we hit the trifecta yesterday: the victory by the Pack, a loss by Da Bearz (a humiliating loss...regrets to my friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan...but even he knows that's true), and a heartbreaking loss by Ol' #4 and his fellow ViQueens. Ahhhhh....it's great to be a Packers fan!
We'll return later on to talk a bit, maybe, about yesterday's victory. But mainly, we'll be looking ahead to the game coming up on Sunday. The rematch. The game that will show whether the Packers are in fact to be counted among the better teams in the league, or whether they still have a ways to go.
But a few things to chew on in the meantime.
Head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters today that TE Jermichael Finley will likely miss the ViQueens game because of a knee sprain suffered yesterday. WR Brett Swain was apparently also injured yesterday and will have knee surgery; he's done for the season. WR and returner Jordy Nelson is still out "a couple more weeks" according to McCarthy with the knee sprain he suffered last week. So that takes the Pack down to just 5 healthy receivers and tight ends. Not much room for more knocks to the depth chart there. To that end, McCarthy said, "We'll acquire another receiver definitely. We're working through (that) right now. Personnel department is looking at their options. We'll probably make a decision in the next 24 hours." McCarthy noted that moving up Jake Allen from the practice squad is a "definite possibility."
The Packers will be getting Chad Clifton back into practice this week, and Jason Spitz will also be evaluated. Mark Tauscher and newly-signed Ahman Green will be evaluated to see how they fit into the game plan for the Vikes. McCarthy indicated that going into this week of practice the Packers will go with the offensive line that finished the Browns game: rookie LT T.J. Lang (who again acquitted himself quite well), LG Daryn Colledge, C Scott Wells, RG Josh Sitton and RT Allen Barbre. Of special note from yesterday was the fact that for the first time this year Aaron Rodgers was not sacked. Yes, you read that right. No sacks.
The Packers defense has been nothing short of great over the last several games. Granted, not exactly the highest calibre teams on the planet. But still. Here's a few stats to mull over.
- Against the ViQueens (and Adrian Peterson!) the Packers allowed just 63 yards rushing; against Detroit, 78 yards rushing; versus the Browns, 58 yards.
- Across those three games, the defense has allowed only 1 rushing touchdown.
Is that enough of a mouthful to chew on for a while?
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Final: Packers 31 - Browns 3
The Packers only score of the final quarter came after their defense held the Browns on 4th and goal from the 1. The Pack then put together a 99-yard touchdown drive which included a nice little scramble by Aaron Rodgers and a 37-yard run by Ryan Grant. The touchdown came courtesy of a 5-yard TD pass to James Jones. Packers 31 - Browns 3.
And that's where the scoring ended. Matt Flynn came in to relieve Aaron Rodgers with about 9 minutes remaining in the game. Brandon Jackson filled in for Ryan Grant.
On the day, the Packers had 25 first downs to 12 for Cleveland. The Packers outgained the Browns in yardage 460 to 139. Aaron Rodgers was 15 for 20 on the day, for 246 yards and 3 touchdowns. Ryan Grant carried 27 times for 148 yards and a 5.5 yards-per-carry average...there we go! There's that rushing game. Yes, it was only Cleveland...but ya gotta start somewhere.
So not a perfect game, again, primarily because of the penalties. But pretty darn good overall on most of the other fronts, including a lack of sacks (might have been one where Rodgers pulled the ball down to run and didn't get far). The defense continues to impress and with the offense getting a running game going today it becomes even more of a challenge for opposing teams to defense.
The Pack goes to 4-2 on the season. And the other good news of the day is that the Steelers beat the ViQueens, 27-17. It appeared as if the 'Queens would take the lead in the closing minute as they were driving when a short screen pass went off the hands of RB Chester Taylor, was intercepted, and returned for a touchdown by the Steelers. Yahoo yahoo!
Now, if the Bengals can just beat Da Bearz in Cincy it will be an absolutely Packerlicious (trademark!) day.
And that's where the scoring ended. Matt Flynn came in to relieve Aaron Rodgers with about 9 minutes remaining in the game. Brandon Jackson filled in for Ryan Grant.
On the day, the Packers had 25 first downs to 12 for Cleveland. The Packers outgained the Browns in yardage 460 to 139. Aaron Rodgers was 15 for 20 on the day, for 246 yards and 3 touchdowns. Ryan Grant carried 27 times for 148 yards and a 5.5 yards-per-carry average...there we go! There's that rushing game. Yes, it was only Cleveland...but ya gotta start somewhere.
So not a perfect game, again, primarily because of the penalties. But pretty darn good overall on most of the other fronts, including a lack of sacks (might have been one where Rodgers pulled the ball down to run and didn't get far). The defense continues to impress and with the offense getting a running game going today it becomes even more of a challenge for opposing teams to defense.
The Pack goes to 4-2 on the season. And the other good news of the day is that the Steelers beat the ViQueens, 27-17. It appeared as if the 'Queens would take the lead in the closing minute as they were driving when a short screen pass went off the hands of RB Chester Taylor, was intercepted, and returned for a touchdown by the Steelers. Yahoo yahoo!
Now, if the Bengals can just beat Da Bearz in Cincy it will be an absolutely Packerlicious (trademark!) day.
End of 3rd quarter: Packers 24 - Browns 3
The story of the 3rd quarter for the Packers was, unfortunately, the reemergence of dropped passes, penalties and missed opportunities. Yes, deju vu all over again, kids.
For example, on the Packers first drive of the half, they converted a 3rd down play to a 1st down at roughly the Browns' 25-yard line. However, the play was negated by a holding penalty -- questionable -- on TE Donald Lee. On the next play, a 3rd and 20, Lee dropped the pass. This set up a 55-yard field goal attempt, which Mason Crosby proceeded to push wide left. Missed opportunity.
The Browns then started with their best field position of the day at their own 45. On a 3rd down pass to Joshua Cribbs, which would have been good for a first down, he fumbled the ball after making the catch and it was recovered by Brandon Chillar. The Packers eventually had 1st and goal from the 9-yard line and, yup, couldn't get the ball across the goal line. One run and 2 completed passes and still couldn't get it the endzone. (Reminder: the Packers rank a lousy 25th in redzone efficiency.) An 18-yard field goal by Crosby made the score 24-3.
On the Browns next series their best offense was penalties on the Packers: encroachment, pass interference and unnecessary roughness. This and a few good plays by the Browns eventually got them to 1st and goal at about the 1-yard line. The quarter ended with the Browns looking to score.
For example, on the Packers first drive of the half, they converted a 3rd down play to a 1st down at roughly the Browns' 25-yard line. However, the play was negated by a holding penalty -- questionable -- on TE Donald Lee. On the next play, a 3rd and 20, Lee dropped the pass. This set up a 55-yard field goal attempt, which Mason Crosby proceeded to push wide left. Missed opportunity.
The Browns then started with their best field position of the day at their own 45. On a 3rd down pass to Joshua Cribbs, which would have been good for a first down, he fumbled the ball after making the catch and it was recovered by Brandon Chillar. The Packers eventually had 1st and goal from the 9-yard line and, yup, couldn't get the ball across the goal line. One run and 2 completed passes and still couldn't get it the endzone. (Reminder: the Packers rank a lousy 25th in redzone efficiency.) An 18-yard field goal by Crosby made the score 24-3.
On the Browns next series their best offense was penalties on the Packers: encroachment, pass interference and unnecessary roughness. This and a few good plays by the Browns eventually got them to 1st and goal at about the 1-yard line. The quarter ended with the Browns looking to score.
Halftime: Packers 21 - Cleveland 3
Coming out of the 1st quarter break, the Browns kicked a short field goal to take a 3-0 lead. The Packers responded by executing their own scoring drive, finished off with a 41-yard TD pass (mostly on yards after catch) to TE Spencer Havner...the first TD of his career. 7-3 Packers.
The Packers defense then held Cleveland and forced a punt; however, the Packers punt return unit had 12 men on the field. As TV commentator and former DB John Lynch said, "Inexcusable." Yup.
But, the Packers "D" held yet again and the Packers got the ball back. It didn't take long for Aaron Rodgers to connect with Donald Driver on a 71-yard TD play, to go up 14-3. It was the Packers' longest TD pass play of the year, although about 60 of those yards were on a great run-after-catch by Driver.
On the Browns' next series, the Packers' defense began turning up the pressure -- finally -- on QB Derrick Anderson, with good results: Charles Woodson got another interception and took the ball down to the Browns' 15-yard line. From there, the Pack took it down to have 1st and goal from about the 3-yard line. A pass interference call in the endzone gave the Packers the ball at the 1 with 1st and goal. Two runs failed to advance the ball. Finally, Ryan Grant was able -- just able -- to get the ball across the goal line. The ball came out but Grant was judged to have possession when he crossed into the endzone. There was no challenge. Packers 21 - Browns 3.
With time running down in the half, the Browns were able to get to about midfield and tossed a Hail Mary pass that was knocked down in the endzone.
So, the Packers look to be well in control of this game on both sides of the ball. And one very nice stat from the 1st half -- something I don't think we've seen all year -- is that Aaron Rodgers was not sacked once. Penalties on the offense have also been minimal.
The Packers outgained the Browns 236 yards to 82 in the half. There is no reason they shouldn't be able to continue this in the second half. Let's not put it in cruise control just yet though. There's another 30 minutes to go.
The Packers defense then held Cleveland and forced a punt; however, the Packers punt return unit had 12 men on the field. As TV commentator and former DB John Lynch said, "Inexcusable." Yup.
But, the Packers "D" held yet again and the Packers got the ball back. It didn't take long for Aaron Rodgers to connect with Donald Driver on a 71-yard TD play, to go up 14-3. It was the Packers' longest TD pass play of the year, although about 60 of those yards were on a great run-after-catch by Driver.
On the Browns' next series, the Packers' defense began turning up the pressure -- finally -- on QB Derrick Anderson, with good results: Charles Woodson got another interception and took the ball down to the Browns' 15-yard line. From there, the Pack took it down to have 1st and goal from about the 3-yard line. A pass interference call in the endzone gave the Packers the ball at the 1 with 1st and goal. Two runs failed to advance the ball. Finally, Ryan Grant was able -- just able -- to get the ball across the goal line. The ball came out but Grant was judged to have possession when he crossed into the endzone. There was no challenge. Packers 21 - Browns 3.
With time running down in the half, the Browns were able to get to about midfield and tossed a Hail Mary pass that was knocked down in the endzone.
So, the Packers look to be well in control of this game on both sides of the ball. And one very nice stat from the 1st half -- something I don't think we've seen all year -- is that Aaron Rodgers was not sacked once. Penalties on the offense have also been minimal.
The Packers outgained the Browns 236 yards to 82 in the half. There is no reason they shouldn't be able to continue this in the second half. Let's not put it in cruise control just yet though. There's another 30 minutes to go.
End of 1st quarter: Packers 0 - Browns 0
The Packers began the game kicking off to, and away from, Joshua Cribbs. The kick hit the endzone pylon -- deemed out of bounds -- and thus Cleveland began their first possession at the 40-yard line. The Packers held. They started their own drive from inside their own 20 and moved down to about the Browns 30, building on a series of successful runs and a pass to TE Jermichael Finley; Finley took a shot to the knee on the tackle and his return today is questionable. On 4th and about half-a-yard, though, the Packers ran a quarterback sneak and could not get the half-yard. Coach Mike McCarthy challenged the spot of the ball, as replays looked as if QB Aaron Rodgers had indeed picked up the first down; the call on the field, after viewing the replay, stood, however. Missed opportunity. Where we have seen this before?
The Browns built a potential scoring drive late in the quarter largely on a pass play onto which 15 yards was tacked because of a facemask penalty on Al Harris. The Browns took the ball down inside the Packers 5-yard line. On second and goal, QB Derrick Anderson fumbled the snap. Despite multiple Packers being around the ball, the Browns recovered. On the next play, LB Nick Barnett dropped what would have been an interception at about the 2-yard line, leaving the Browns to decide on a field goal or 4th-and-goal attempt as time ran out in the quarter.
There has been no pass rush on Browns' QB Anderson whatsoever. He went 5 for 6 on the Browns' scoring drive. Even a mediocre quarterback can be made to look good when he has all day to pass.
One of the unspoken fears of this game, coming off the flawed win versus Detroit and looking to the game against the ViQueens next weekend, is that the Packers would be flat for this game. Maybe. Maybe.
The Browns built a potential scoring drive late in the quarter largely on a pass play onto which 15 yards was tacked because of a facemask penalty on Al Harris. The Browns took the ball down inside the Packers 5-yard line. On second and goal, QB Derrick Anderson fumbled the snap. Despite multiple Packers being around the ball, the Browns recovered. On the next play, LB Nick Barnett dropped what would have been an interception at about the 2-yard line, leaving the Browns to decide on a field goal or 4th-and-goal attempt as time ran out in the quarter.
There has been no pass rush on Browns' QB Anderson whatsoever. He went 5 for 6 on the Browns' scoring drive. Even a mediocre quarterback can be made to look good when he has all day to pass.
One of the unspoken fears of this game, coming off the flawed win versus Detroit and looking to the game against the ViQueens next weekend, is that the Packers would be flat for this game. Maybe. Maybe.
Packers - Browns Preview
The Packers are 3-2, the Browns are 1-5. The Packers are favored by 7...or 9, depending upon what spread you look at.
The Browns had a lot of players out sick with the flu this past week. Reports were that as many as 23 players were either ill or sidelined with injuries. Almost hard to have a practice with those numbers. Looking at the Browns' injury report is like looking at a list of...well...a lot of injured players.
This is one of those games that the Packers should win. The level of overall talent between the two teams isn't even close. Still, the Browns do have some individual standouts. The primary one that has received most of the attention, and rightly so, is return specialist and sometime wildcat-er (is that a word?) Joshua Cribbs. He can do some damage. I'm giving the Browns 7 points just because of him, whether taking it all the way on a return or setting up Cleveland in good field position after a long return.
Other players of note include Wisconsin's own Joe Thomas, who, at left tackle, is the best thing going on the Brown's offensive line. Man, how we could use him in Green 'n Gold! (Sigh.) The Browns do have veteran Jamal Lewis at running back. Two weeks ago against Buffalo he ran for 117 yards in 31 carries. Last week against Pittsburgh, Lewis rushed for only 21 yards in 11 tries. In other words, at this stage in his career, Lewis is a bit like Forrest Gump's box of chocolates: you never know what you're gonna get. Let's hope the Lewis we get today is like that last bit of candy that just never makes it out of the box.
On defense, the player of some concern is NT Shaun Rogers. He was among the ill this past week and also has a foot problem. And while he might not be the dominant player he was when was with the Lions, he still leads the Browns' defensive linemen in tackles with 24, including one sack. He'll be going against C Scott Wells, in once again for Jason Spitz who is doubtful because of his back problems. Wells has something to prove, namely that he should still be the starting center for the Packers. And Rogers? Well, he just might want to make it known that he can still dominate when he wants to; the question today will be how much he wants to.
The injury report for the Packers looks like this today: Out - RB Korey Hall (calf), T Mark Tauscher (out), WR Jordy Nelson (knee); Doubtful - T Chad Clifton (ankle), Jason Spitz (back); Questionable - Brandon Chillar (neck); Probable - WR Greg Jennings (hip), RB Quinn Johnson (ankle), DT B.J. Raji (ankle), QB Aaron Rodgers (foot).
Again, this is one of those games the Packers should have no problem with unless they do themselves in. As noted last week, if all the miscues and missed opportunities in that game appeared against a better foe the win might very well have been in doubt. We're looking to see the Packers correct at least some of the problems that have plagued them over the first five games, particularly on offense. Depending upon how well they do that will determine how many points they put up. We're looking to the defense to once again put on a good performance against a team they should dominate.
We've already noted that we're giving the Browns 7 points for Joshua Cribbs being on the field. Give 'em another 3 for being at home. For the Pack, we're going to say they convert a few more of those trips in the redzone from the field goals of last week to touchdowns this week.
Prediction: Packers 31 - Browns 10.
Go Pack Go!!!
The Browns had a lot of players out sick with the flu this past week. Reports were that as many as 23 players were either ill or sidelined with injuries. Almost hard to have a practice with those numbers. Looking at the Browns' injury report is like looking at a list of...well...a lot of injured players.
This is one of those games that the Packers should win. The level of overall talent between the two teams isn't even close. Still, the Browns do have some individual standouts. The primary one that has received most of the attention, and rightly so, is return specialist and sometime wildcat-er (is that a word?) Joshua Cribbs. He can do some damage. I'm giving the Browns 7 points just because of him, whether taking it all the way on a return or setting up Cleveland in good field position after a long return.
Other players of note include Wisconsin's own Joe Thomas, who, at left tackle, is the best thing going on the Brown's offensive line. Man, how we could use him in Green 'n Gold! (Sigh.) The Browns do have veteran Jamal Lewis at running back. Two weeks ago against Buffalo he ran for 117 yards in 31 carries. Last week against Pittsburgh, Lewis rushed for only 21 yards in 11 tries. In other words, at this stage in his career, Lewis is a bit like Forrest Gump's box of chocolates: you never know what you're gonna get. Let's hope the Lewis we get today is like that last bit of candy that just never makes it out of the box.
On defense, the player of some concern is NT Shaun Rogers. He was among the ill this past week and also has a foot problem. And while he might not be the dominant player he was when was with the Lions, he still leads the Browns' defensive linemen in tackles with 24, including one sack. He'll be going against C Scott Wells, in once again for Jason Spitz who is doubtful because of his back problems. Wells has something to prove, namely that he should still be the starting center for the Packers. And Rogers? Well, he just might want to make it known that he can still dominate when he wants to; the question today will be how much he wants to.
The injury report for the Packers looks like this today: Out - RB Korey Hall (calf), T Mark Tauscher (out), WR Jordy Nelson (knee); Doubtful - T Chad Clifton (ankle), Jason Spitz (back); Questionable - Brandon Chillar (neck); Probable - WR Greg Jennings (hip), RB Quinn Johnson (ankle), DT B.J. Raji (ankle), QB Aaron Rodgers (foot).
Again, this is one of those games the Packers should have no problem with unless they do themselves in. As noted last week, if all the miscues and missed opportunities in that game appeared against a better foe the win might very well have been in doubt. We're looking to see the Packers correct at least some of the problems that have plagued them over the first five games, particularly on offense. Depending upon how well they do that will determine how many points they put up. We're looking to the defense to once again put on a good performance against a team they should dominate.
We've already noted that we're giving the Browns 7 points for Joshua Cribbs being on the field. Give 'em another 3 for being at home. For the Pack, we're going to say they convert a few more of those trips in the redzone from the field goals of last week to touchdowns this week.
Prediction: Packers 31 - Browns 10.
Go Pack Go!!!
Friday, October 23, 2009
Which is worst: penalties or sacks?
For Packer fans through the first five games of the season, the matter of penalties and sacks is something that keeps us up at night. Well, OK, some of us. The Pack is leading the league in both categories. Not good.
But, is one of these maladies worse than the other in terms of its impact on games? Hmmm...have to admit, it seems a bit of a chicken-egg thing, doesn't it? Maybe not.
In a very good article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Packers beat writer Greg Bedard makes the case that, yes, penalties are not good but sacks are worse. And he's got some interesting stats to help back up his premise. But don't take my word for it. Check it out for yourself here.
More on the Green signing
As sports writer Mike Vandermause of the Green Bay Press-Gazette writes in a recent column, it didn't take long for the jokes to start flying -- including a few here -- about the signing of Ahman Green. But Vandermause also points out that this signing is perhaps a recognition, somewhat belatedly, by general manager Ted Thompson that having the youngest team in the league for the fourth straight year means there is not a lot veteran leadership or depth on the team. Thompson didn't sign Green to save the non-existent running game. He signed Green to be reliable backup at a position where there is now virtually none. As various sports talk shows are reminding listeners, Green was always good as a blocker -- Aaron Rodgers will be glad to hear that -- and as a receiver, especially on screen passes, which have also not been a big part of the offense lately.
One telling statement of how well the signing of Green, as well as that of Mark Tauscher, is being received in the locker room comes from fellow veteran Charles Woodson. Here's what Woodson had to say after the signing of Green was announced: "Anytime you're making moves to try to get better as a team, then I'm all for it. We know what these guys have done here in the past and we know they're eager to play. I definitely love when it's a veteran guy because I know veteran guys know exactly what it's about."
This comment by Woodson, "veteran guys know exactly what it's about," received a fair amount of attention on local sports call in shows, with more than one pundit making the point that Woodson basically was saying that the younger players just don't get what it's all about. For them, they think there will always be another game, another season in which to excel. Woodson, Green, Tauscher, Driver et al know otherwise. They know the time is now. There might not be another play to make a difference between a win and a loss, between the playoffs and a championship and going home till next season.
While leadership is part of what veterans bring, Woodson was adamant that what they bring is more than that. When a reporter suggested to Woodson that Green and Tauscher would help with leadership even if they didn't get into a game, Woodson was quick to state, "It'll help in the game. We ain't worried about the sideline. Our focus is on what happens in the game. You guys have been around a long time, you've seen Tausch, you've seen Ahman play football, so you know what kind of players they are. We look forward to having those guys out there when they're needed, when they're healthy and ready to go."
So, let's see what can happen. Tauscher is now taking part in full practices although it is doubtful he'll be ready for the Cleveland game. Green also, obviously, won't be ready to go Sunday. But having these players ready for duty when Ol' #4 returns the following week would definitely be a help. On the sideline and on the field.
Speaking of welcoming Favre back to Green Bay...
If you hadn't already heard about it, Green Bay's mayor is looking for ideas on ways to welcome Brent, er, Brett, back to town. Seriously. There's even an idea submittal form on the city's website. According to the site, "Mayor (Jim) Schmitt has fielded a wide variety of ideas from Packer fans on how to commemorate the occasion, from re-naming streets, to welcoming back other former Packers greats, to creating the world’s largest #4 waffle. The Mayor is reaching out to the community to create a list of the Mayor’s Top 4 things he can do to tastefully welcome back Brett Favre."
So good ahead, Packer fans, submit your ideas via the link above. And remember: be tasteful. I understand, that's a difficult requirement, but please try. You have until Wednesday, October 28.
But, is one of these maladies worse than the other in terms of its impact on games? Hmmm...have to admit, it seems a bit of a chicken-egg thing, doesn't it? Maybe not.
In a very good article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Packers beat writer Greg Bedard makes the case that, yes, penalties are not good but sacks are worse. And he's got some interesting stats to help back up his premise. But don't take my word for it. Check it out for yourself here.
More on the Green signing
As sports writer Mike Vandermause of the Green Bay Press-Gazette writes in a recent column, it didn't take long for the jokes to start flying -- including a few here -- about the signing of Ahman Green. But Vandermause also points out that this signing is perhaps a recognition, somewhat belatedly, by general manager Ted Thompson that having the youngest team in the league for the fourth straight year means there is not a lot veteran leadership or depth on the team. Thompson didn't sign Green to save the non-existent running game. He signed Green to be reliable backup at a position where there is now virtually none. As various sports talk shows are reminding listeners, Green was always good as a blocker -- Aaron Rodgers will be glad to hear that -- and as a receiver, especially on screen passes, which have also not been a big part of the offense lately.
One telling statement of how well the signing of Green, as well as that of Mark Tauscher, is being received in the locker room comes from fellow veteran Charles Woodson. Here's what Woodson had to say after the signing of Green was announced: "Anytime you're making moves to try to get better as a team, then I'm all for it. We know what these guys have done here in the past and we know they're eager to play. I definitely love when it's a veteran guy because I know veteran guys know exactly what it's about."
This comment by Woodson, "veteran guys know exactly what it's about," received a fair amount of attention on local sports call in shows, with more than one pundit making the point that Woodson basically was saying that the younger players just don't get what it's all about. For them, they think there will always be another game, another season in which to excel. Woodson, Green, Tauscher, Driver et al know otherwise. They know the time is now. There might not be another play to make a difference between a win and a loss, between the playoffs and a championship and going home till next season.
While leadership is part of what veterans bring, Woodson was adamant that what they bring is more than that. When a reporter suggested to Woodson that Green and Tauscher would help with leadership even if they didn't get into a game, Woodson was quick to state, "It'll help in the game. We ain't worried about the sideline. Our focus is on what happens in the game. You guys have been around a long time, you've seen Tausch, you've seen Ahman play football, so you know what kind of players they are. We look forward to having those guys out there when they're needed, when they're healthy and ready to go."
So, let's see what can happen. Tauscher is now taking part in full practices although it is doubtful he'll be ready for the Cleveland game. Green also, obviously, won't be ready to go Sunday. But having these players ready for duty when Ol' #4 returns the following week would definitely be a help. On the sideline and on the field.
Speaking of welcoming Favre back to Green Bay...
If you hadn't already heard about it, Green Bay's mayor is looking for ideas on ways to welcome Brent, er, Brett, back to town. Seriously. There's even an idea submittal form on the city's website. According to the site, "Mayor (Jim) Schmitt has fielded a wide variety of ideas from Packer fans on how to commemorate the occasion, from re-naming streets, to welcoming back other former Packers greats, to creating the world’s largest #4 waffle. The Mayor is reaching out to the community to create a list of the Mayor’s Top 4 things he can do to tastefully welcome back Brett Favre."
So good ahead, Packer fans, submit your ideas via the link above. And remember: be tasteful. I understand, that's a difficult requirement, but please try. You have until Wednesday, October 28.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Yep, it's Green again in Green Bay
As noted here yesterday, the Packers were going retro in their search for a backup running back now that DeShawn Wynn has landed on the injured reserve list and is -- shocking! -- unavailable to play yet again.
The answer: Ahman Green! Yep, the same Ahman Green who the Packers parted ways with in 2007, and who was injury-plagued during his brief stint in Houston, is back with the Pack. And why not? He only needs 46 more yards to break Jim Taylor's all-time yardage rushing record for the Packers. At the rate the Pack has been rushing the ball and gaining yards, Green might just make that by the time the last game of the season rolls around.
While the Packers didn't release details of the deal, reports are that it was a one-year deal (oh, go ahead, Ted...make it a long-term deal while you're at it! sorry...sorry...totally uncalled for, I know...) for a prorated portion of the veteran's minimum and likely with incentives that could boost the dollars, of course.
So...what can you say? What's old is new -- and still old -- again.
The answer: Ahman Green! Yep, the same Ahman Green who the Packers parted ways with in 2007, and who was injury-plagued during his brief stint in Houston, is back with the Pack. And why not? He only needs 46 more yards to break Jim Taylor's all-time yardage rushing record for the Packers. At the rate the Pack has been rushing the ball and gaining yards, Green might just make that by the time the last game of the season rolls around.
While the Packers didn't release details of the deal, reports are that it was a one-year deal (oh, go ahead, Ted...make it a long-term deal while you're at it! sorry...sorry...totally uncalled for, I know...) for a prorated portion of the veteran's minimum and likely with incentives that could boost the dollars, of course.
So...what can you say? What's old is new -- and still old -- again.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Penalties and other debris
The topic of ongoing penalties by the Packers under head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure is a topic of much discussion among Packer fans and sports pundits. Some of those thoughts were related in yesterday's post, including links to yet other articles about the topic.
Today, the online edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel has a poll about the subject. At the time of this posting, here are the results:
Does Mike McCarthy show enough concern over the number of Packers penalties?
Guess, coach, fans aren't buying the old song and dance that "we'll get it cleaned up." We've heard that for the last few years and the Packers are still among the most penalized teams in the league. And then, refs begin looking for chances to throw the flags. You think they aren't eyeballing Chad Clifton every time he goes to the line of scrimmage to see if he is actually on the line of scrimmage?
Coach McCarthy also got a bit testy during his news conference yesterday when he was pressed on the subject of penalties. It doesn't really get conveyed in the transcript, but if you listen to the audio you should be able to sense his growing unease talking about the subject. Just go here and then click on coach McCarthy's press conference from Oct. 19.
Flashback or flash forward?
Reports out of Green Bay yesterday are that the Packers had RB Ahman Green in for a tryout yesterday. Whaaaaaaa...??? Yep. Ahman Green. Great. About 10 years ago, that is. Was cut by Houston in February after two seasons of ongoing injuries. At age 32, should he even be considered as a backup? And that's what we're talking here. But isn't it a reflection on personnel and/or coaching decisions when this is where things are at in regards to that position after just five games?
Let's review, shall we?
The decision was to keep Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn as the backups to Ryan Grant. Jackson is serviceable when healthy, which he hasn't been yet this season, being active for the first time against the Lions. Wynn has shown flashes on rare occasions when he's been healthy; his problem, however, is that he has never been healthy -- or willing play through minor injuries -- since he's been in the NFL.
As for the starter, Grant has been a non-factor in any form this season. He finally got off his longest run of the season -- 22 yards -- late in the game Sunday when the Lions had already been beaten. Not entirely his fault. The problems with the offensive line extend beyond giving up a league-leading sack count; there also just haven't been many holes to run through. (One wonders if even a back like Adrian Peterson could do anything given this current line. )
But back to personnel decisions. The Packers kept three fullbacks, which raised eyebrows at the time and perhaps is now coming back to haunt the team. Although this past Sunday, the team was down to only John Kuhn as both Korey Hall and rookie Quinn Johnson were out. But if the Pack had kept their leading rusher of the preseason, undrafted free agent Tyrell Sutton, the team might not now have to be looking at such alternatives as bringing in Ahman Green and Dominic Rhodes, another old-timer (age 30), as help in the running back department. Granted, Sutton might not have been the answer either. But at least he was fast and had fresh legs.
You can read more about this development here. Be sure to especially check out the reader comments afterward. Some priceless feedback.
Game Day Weather Link
In a continuing effort to provide at least some useful tools to Packer fans, I've recently added a "Packers 2009 Home & Away Weather Forecast" link in, appropriately enough, the "Links" section in the righthand column. Check it out there. Or here.
Today, the online edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel has a poll about the subject. At the time of this posting, here are the results:
Does Mike McCarthy show enough concern over the number of Packers penalties?
- Yes (8%)
- No (92%)
Guess, coach, fans aren't buying the old song and dance that "we'll get it cleaned up." We've heard that for the last few years and the Packers are still among the most penalized teams in the league. And then, refs begin looking for chances to throw the flags. You think they aren't eyeballing Chad Clifton every time he goes to the line of scrimmage to see if he is actually on the line of scrimmage?
Coach McCarthy also got a bit testy during his news conference yesterday when he was pressed on the subject of penalties. It doesn't really get conveyed in the transcript, but if you listen to the audio you should be able to sense his growing unease talking about the subject. Just go here and then click on coach McCarthy's press conference from Oct. 19.
Flashback or flash forward?
Reports out of Green Bay yesterday are that the Packers had RB Ahman Green in for a tryout yesterday. Whaaaaaaa...??? Yep. Ahman Green. Great. About 10 years ago, that is. Was cut by Houston in February after two seasons of ongoing injuries. At age 32, should he even be considered as a backup? And that's what we're talking here. But isn't it a reflection on personnel and/or coaching decisions when this is where things are at in regards to that position after just five games?
Let's review, shall we?
The decision was to keep Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn as the backups to Ryan Grant. Jackson is serviceable when healthy, which he hasn't been yet this season, being active for the first time against the Lions. Wynn has shown flashes on rare occasions when he's been healthy; his problem, however, is that he has never been healthy -- or willing play through minor injuries -- since he's been in the NFL.
As for the starter, Grant has been a non-factor in any form this season. He finally got off his longest run of the season -- 22 yards -- late in the game Sunday when the Lions had already been beaten. Not entirely his fault. The problems with the offensive line extend beyond giving up a league-leading sack count; there also just haven't been many holes to run through. (One wonders if even a back like Adrian Peterson could do anything given this current line. )
But back to personnel decisions. The Packers kept three fullbacks, which raised eyebrows at the time and perhaps is now coming back to haunt the team. Although this past Sunday, the team was down to only John Kuhn as both Korey Hall and rookie Quinn Johnson were out. But if the Pack had kept their leading rusher of the preseason, undrafted free agent Tyrell Sutton, the team might not now have to be looking at such alternatives as bringing in Ahman Green and Dominic Rhodes, another old-timer (age 30), as help in the running back department. Granted, Sutton might not have been the answer either. But at least he was fast and had fresh legs.
You can read more about this development here. Be sure to especially check out the reader comments afterward. Some priceless feedback.
Game Day Weather Link
In a continuing effort to provide at least some useful tools to Packer fans, I've recently added a "Packers 2009 Home & Away Weather Forecast" link in, appropriately enough, the "Links" section in the righthand column. Check it out there. Or here.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Boy, are we spoiled, Packer fans
You'd think that after a win -- a win at home, a win against a divisional opponent, a win that is a shutout -- that we Packer fans would be reveling in yesterday's victory. Well, yes and no.
Definitely, it's always a good thing to get a "W" (political references aside, please). So why the kvetching (look it up)? Just review the posts from yesterday as the game went on: penalties, sacks, missed opportunities, redzone failures, no running game. We'll get back to all this in a moment.
Let's not forget the positives:
And if that doesn't do you in, check out Bill Michaels' blog, also at 620WTMJ. He takes on the Packers' sloppiness, penalties in particular, as now a multi-year problem under head coach Mike McCarthy. Check out this tidbit: "Mike McCarthy’s 'We’ll clean that up' phrase has now fallen upon deaf ears. To be honest, I’m beginning to question McCarthy’s capabilities as a head coach. There have been numerous moments that bring me to this more definitive doubt today but an undisciplined team, coming out of a break in which there was supposed to be a staunch concentration on 'cleaning up' the mental errors, leads me to believe that Mike McCarthy doesn’t have the ability, discipline capability or respect to fix the problems that have plagued this team for the last few years." Ouch! Check out the rest of what Michaels has to say here.
The Pack may get away with this kind of sloppiness against their next opponent, Cleveland. However, making these same bonehead mistakes against the next team to visit Lambeau -- that would be the ViQueens and Ol' #4 (as a popular T-shirt says, "We'll never forget you, Brent") -- will be a sure formula for a loss.
So, be happy with the victory. And pray for improvement.
Definitely, it's always a good thing to get a "W" (political references aside, please). So why the kvetching (look it up)? Just review the posts from yesterday as the game went on: penalties, sacks, missed opportunities, redzone failures, no running game. We'll get back to all this in a moment.
Let's not forget the positives:
- Donald Driver becoming the all-time Packers leader in receptions, surpassing Sterling Sharpe. Not bad for a 7th round draft pick who caught a grand total of 3 passes in his first season. Congratulations, Donald. Packers Hall of Fame here you come!
- Aaron Rodgers passing for 358 yards.
- Clay Matthews getting his first start at linebacker and making big plays in the process.
- Aaron Kampman working occasionally from the down linemen position and looking like his old sack-meister self.
- Mason Crosby nailing 4 field goals (OK, that was the Pack settling but give credit where it's due).
- The entire defensive unit staying focused and pitching a shutout.
And if that doesn't do you in, check out Bill Michaels' blog, also at 620WTMJ. He takes on the Packers' sloppiness, penalties in particular, as now a multi-year problem under head coach Mike McCarthy. Check out this tidbit: "Mike McCarthy’s 'We’ll clean that up' phrase has now fallen upon deaf ears. To be honest, I’m beginning to question McCarthy’s capabilities as a head coach. There have been numerous moments that bring me to this more definitive doubt today but an undisciplined team, coming out of a break in which there was supposed to be a staunch concentration on 'cleaning up' the mental errors, leads me to believe that Mike McCarthy doesn’t have the ability, discipline capability or respect to fix the problems that have plagued this team for the last few years." Ouch! Check out the rest of what Michaels has to say here.
The Pack may get away with this kind of sloppiness against their next opponent, Cleveland. However, making these same bonehead mistakes against the next team to visit Lambeau -- that would be the ViQueens and Ol' #4 (as a popular T-shirt says, "We'll never forget you, Brent") -- will be a sure formula for a loss.
So, be happy with the victory. And pray for improvement.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Final: Packers 26 - Lions 0
November 17, 1946. That's the last time the Packers shut out the Lions. The last time the Pack shut out the Lions in Green Bay was five years before that. And the Packers' win streak over the Lions in the state of Wisconsin goes to 19 with today's 26-0 victory.
Aaron Rodgers had the fifth 300+ yards passing game of his career. He threw for 358 yards with 2 TDs and one interception on the day. Ryan Grant had his long run of the season, 22 yards, in the waning minutes of the game. S Atari Bigby made his presence known, picking off a pass in the endzone to preserve the shutout after the Lions had first and goal at the Packers' 9-yard line. Cullen Jenkins had an interception earlier in the game, and Al Harris also had a pick. The defense deserves a lot of credit for keeping Detroit off the scoreboard. Granted, the Lions didn't have many weapons. But keeping a zero on the board for 60 minutes against any team deserves credit. Great job, "D"!
So, yay! Packers win. Get a shut out. Go to 3-2 on the season. They head to Cleveland next weekend. That should put them at 4-2 going into the rematch with the ViQueens and Ol' #4 at Lambeau.
But in the meantime, can we please clean up the crappy play we saw way too much of today, Coach McCarthy? You know, the penalties, the sacks, the dropped balls, the missed opportunities in the redzone...that kinda stuff...the mistakes we have seen through the first five games of the season. No excuses at this point.
The Packers got their much-needed win against the Lions. But against healthier and better teams, such sloppiness will result in a loss rather than a win.
Get it together, guys. You've got all the potential in the world. But you have to start playing like it. And soon.
Aaron Rodgers had the fifth 300+ yards passing game of his career. He threw for 358 yards with 2 TDs and one interception on the day. Ryan Grant had his long run of the season, 22 yards, in the waning minutes of the game. S Atari Bigby made his presence known, picking off a pass in the endzone to preserve the shutout after the Lions had first and goal at the Packers' 9-yard line. Cullen Jenkins had an interception earlier in the game, and Al Harris also had a pick. The defense deserves a lot of credit for keeping Detroit off the scoreboard. Granted, the Lions didn't have many weapons. But keeping a zero on the board for 60 minutes against any team deserves credit. Great job, "D"!
So, yay! Packers win. Get a shut out. Go to 3-2 on the season. They head to Cleveland next weekend. That should put them at 4-2 going into the rematch with the ViQueens and Ol' #4 at Lambeau.
But in the meantime, can we please clean up the crappy play we saw way too much of today, Coach McCarthy? You know, the penalties, the sacks, the dropped balls, the missed opportunities in the redzone...that kinda stuff...the mistakes we have seen through the first five games of the season. No excuses at this point.
The Packers got their much-needed win against the Lions. But against healthier and better teams, such sloppiness will result in a loss rather than a win.
Get it together, guys. You've got all the potential in the world. But you have to start playing like it. And soon.
End of 3rd quarter: Packers 26 - Lions 0
The Packers conducted an 11 play, 70-yard drive chewing up more than 5 minutes of the 3rd quarter, getting down into the Lions' redzone for the fourth time today...and for the third out of those four times had to settle for another field goal. That has allowed Mason Crosby to tie his own record of 4 field goals in a game.
A key play which helped halt momentum was a short dump off pass to Ryan Grant who merely dropped the ball. Where we have seen that before this season? Oh yeah, the Packers lead the league in that category as well as sacks allowed. Great.
Another blown opportunity: on the Packers' fifth trip into the Lions' redzone -- 5, count 'em -- the Pack had the ball late in the quarter with first and goal at the Lions' 3-yard line. Rodgers got stripped of the ball on the fifth sack of the day. No points this time, not even a field goal. And...LT Chad Clifton came up limping and calling for help to get off the field. Not good, on two counts.
I know, I know...the Pack is winning. But if Detroit wasn't so banged up it could be a very different game. You fail to take advantage of repeated opportunities to get in the endzone against a decent team and it will come back to haunt you. The Packers don't seem to have that killer instinct. Or if they do, they shoot themselves in the foot with penalties, dropped balls and sacks given up.
A key play which helped halt momentum was a short dump off pass to Ryan Grant who merely dropped the ball. Where we have seen that before this season? Oh yeah, the Packers lead the league in that category as well as sacks allowed. Great.
Another blown opportunity: on the Packers' fifth trip into the Lions' redzone -- 5, count 'em -- the Pack had the ball late in the quarter with first and goal at the Lions' 3-yard line. Rodgers got stripped of the ball on the fifth sack of the day. No points this time, not even a field goal. And...LT Chad Clifton came up limping and calling for help to get off the field. Not good, on two counts.
I know, I know...the Pack is winning. But if Detroit wasn't so banged up it could be a very different game. You fail to take advantage of repeated opportunities to get in the endzone against a decent team and it will come back to haunt you. The Packers don't seem to have that killer instinct. Or if they do, they shoot themselves in the foot with penalties, dropped balls and sacks given up.
Halftime: Packers 23 - Lions 0
Good news is still that the Packers lead, adding three field goals in the 2nd quarter, by a score of 23-0 over the Lions. But it could and should be so much more. Getting greedy, I know. But when you settle for field goals instead of touchdowns, you are leaving points on the field.
As the TV announcers, including former NFL players Daryl Johnson and Tony Siragusa, have been pointing out repeatedly, Packers' penalties -- now totalling 8 for the day -- and sacks (4 so far) are negating Packers' momentum.
Five times in the second quarter the Pack started within Lions' territory and wound up with only 9 points to show for it. Better than nothing, true. But the Pack could have completely put away the Lions by now. Instead, well, a couple plays, turnovers or breakdowns on the part of the Packers and the Lions are back in it.
We are seeing the same things we've seen all season in the way of lack of concentration, penalties and missed assignments leading to sacks on Aaron Rodgers. Three out of four of Detroit's starting defensive linemen are out of the game, and they still have gotten to Rodgers. No excuse.
The fact that these things have not been cleaned up after a bye week is concerning. If the Pack performed this way against a good team, the outcome might be different. This one will go in the "W" column, make no mistake. But the Packers have not capitalized on their opportunities.
As the TV announcers, including former NFL players Daryl Johnson and Tony Siragusa, have been pointing out repeatedly, Packers' penalties -- now totalling 8 for the day -- and sacks (4 so far) are negating Packers' momentum.
Five times in the second quarter the Pack started within Lions' territory and wound up with only 9 points to show for it. Better than nothing, true. But the Pack could have completely put away the Lions by now. Instead, well, a couple plays, turnovers or breakdowns on the part of the Packers and the Lions are back in it.
We are seeing the same things we've seen all season in the way of lack of concentration, penalties and missed assignments leading to sacks on Aaron Rodgers. Three out of four of Detroit's starting defensive linemen are out of the game, and they still have gotten to Rodgers. No excuse.
The fact that these things have not been cleaned up after a bye week is concerning. If the Pack performed this way against a good team, the outcome might be different. This one will go in the "W" column, make no mistake. But the Packers have not capitalized on their opportunities.
End of 1st quarter: Packers 14 - Lions 0
The good news is the Packers are up 14-0 over the Lions at the end of the 1st quarter. The bad news is the Packers have had a plethora (look it up) of penalties: 6, to be exact. One wiping out an opening kickoff return by Jordy Nelson. A couple in a row on Chad Clifton, who is obviously knocking off the rust.
QB Aaron Rodgers is off to a good start, with 2 TD passes, one to WR James Jones and another to FB John Kuhn. Lots of completions. The flip side of that, of course, is the Packers are once again giving lip service to a running game. But I guess if Detroit is giving you what they are giving you in the passing game, why not?
Part of that passing gaming included WR Donald Driver becoming the all-time franchise leader in receptions.
There is a sloppiness on both offense and defense coming off a bye week which shouldn't be there. But as noted in the preview, nothing cures what ails you better than the Lions coming to town. That will go a long way to helping the Pack get out of their own way today.
QB Aaron Rodgers is off to a good start, with 2 TD passes, one to WR James Jones and another to FB John Kuhn. Lots of completions. The flip side of that, of course, is the Packers are once again giving lip service to a running game. But I guess if Detroit is giving you what they are giving you in the passing game, why not?
Part of that passing gaming included WR Donald Driver becoming the all-time franchise leader in receptions.
There is a sloppiness on both offense and defense coming off a bye week which shouldn't be there. But as noted in the preview, nothing cures what ails you better than the Lions coming to town. That will go a long way to helping the Pack get out of their own way today.
Packers - Lions Preview
The cure for what ails most teams in the NFL -- sorry, Washington -- pays a visit to Lambeau Field today. The Detroit Lions come to town as a wounded and anemic team, with the result being the Pack favored by 14 points. Yikes! Almost sounds like one of those set-up games, doesn't it? Well, kids, if the Pack loses to Detroit...nah, not gonna happen. Detroit has lost 18 straight in the state of Wisconsin. Make it 19 when the game ends today. They are without their rookie megabucks QB and best receiver. Veteran QB Daunte Culpepper will get the start and, in his younger days, was known to give the Pack problems. He's not the player he was before blowing out his knee and being out of football for a while; but he's no chump either. The Packers better not take him for granted or he could do a bit of damage, particularly if he starts running. The lines on both sides of the ball for Detroit...not good.
On the other hand, we know all too well about the Packers' problems ever since the preseason ended and the regular season began. Won't rehash them here. Mainly because we're hoping that at least some of these issues -- primarily pass protection! -- have been addressed since the game in the Humpty Dump.
The Pack gets Chad Clifton back at left tackle but center Jason Spitz is questionable; word is that Scott Wells will get the start at center and rookie T. J. Lang, not Daryn Colledge, will be Clifton's backup. S Atari Bigby is also back in the lineup. And RB Brandon Jackson finally will get in a game as the backup to Ryan Grant. Fullback Korey Hall is out for today, which means John Kuhn will get all the work unless rookie Quinn Johnson is ready to go. B. J. Raji is still dealing with his gimpy ankle but will see action. And, yes, right tackle Mark Tauscher is back in the fold but will not play today.
Oh...Donald Driver needs only one catch today to become the Pack's all-time leading receiver in number of receptions.
So, what are we left with here? If the Pack doesn't dominate Detroit and play a full four quarters, well, let's not even go there. This is a game the Pack should win as long as they show up and play. We're taking the Packers 31-13 over the Lions.
Go Pack Go!!!
Kampman on the trade block?
There are starting to be rumors both in print and on TV -- including today's NFL on Fox pre-game show -- that Aaron Kampman is out of place in the new 3-4 scheme and, paraphrasing Howie Long, the best thing for both the Packers and Kampman would be to trade him before Tuesday's trade deadline. Others, quite naturally, disagree, suggesting instead that the Packers should roll with Kampman for the rest of the season, place a tag on him after the season is over and thus be able to get more in the way of compensation for him should he depart. See this ProFootballTalk.com article for more. Would hate to see Kampman go. So far, the experiment of moving him from a down defensive end to upright outside linebacker has been less than effective. Perhaps it will be become better as the season goes on. Personally, I can't see Ted Thompson pulling the trigger unless it was to get someone of the caliber of a starting offensive lineman like Joe Thomas, as has been previously rumored. My guess: don't count on this move until after the season concludes.
On the other hand, we know all too well about the Packers' problems ever since the preseason ended and the regular season began. Won't rehash them here. Mainly because we're hoping that at least some of these issues -- primarily pass protection! -- have been addressed since the game in the Humpty Dump.
The Pack gets Chad Clifton back at left tackle but center Jason Spitz is questionable; word is that Scott Wells will get the start at center and rookie T. J. Lang, not Daryn Colledge, will be Clifton's backup. S Atari Bigby is also back in the lineup. And RB Brandon Jackson finally will get in a game as the backup to Ryan Grant. Fullback Korey Hall is out for today, which means John Kuhn will get all the work unless rookie Quinn Johnson is ready to go. B. J. Raji is still dealing with his gimpy ankle but will see action. And, yes, right tackle Mark Tauscher is back in the fold but will not play today.
Oh...Donald Driver needs only one catch today to become the Pack's all-time leading receiver in number of receptions.
So, what are we left with here? If the Pack doesn't dominate Detroit and play a full four quarters, well, let's not even go there. This is a game the Pack should win as long as they show up and play. We're taking the Packers 31-13 over the Lions.
Go Pack Go!!!
Kampman on the trade block?
There are starting to be rumors both in print and on TV -- including today's NFL on Fox pre-game show -- that Aaron Kampman is out of place in the new 3-4 scheme and, paraphrasing Howie Long, the best thing for both the Packers and Kampman would be to trade him before Tuesday's trade deadline. Others, quite naturally, disagree, suggesting instead that the Packers should roll with Kampman for the rest of the season, place a tag on him after the season is over and thus be able to get more in the way of compensation for him should he depart. See this ProFootballTalk.com article for more. Would hate to see Kampman go. So far, the experiment of moving him from a down defensive end to upright outside linebacker has been less than effective. Perhaps it will be become better as the season goes on. Personally, I can't see Ted Thompson pulling the trigger unless it was to get someone of the caliber of a starting offensive lineman like Joe Thomas, as has been previously rumored. My guess: don't count on this move until after the season concludes.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Rodgers holding the ball too long?
Any fan of the Packers over the first four games has undoubtedly found themselves shouting either at the game or at the TV, "Get rid of the ball!!!". This, in reference of course, to QB Aaron Rodgers seemingly preferring to take sacks over throwing the ball away when under pressure or when no receiver is open. The discussion of whether it's the sieve-like offensive line's fault or Rodgers' has been a topic of sports talk radio in Packerland for weeks. When you lead the league in sacks -- count 'em, 20 -- after four games, the answer would be instructive, although not totally answerable (btw, is answerable a real word...or just a make-it-up-able one?).
To further the statistical analysis of the situation and its impact upon a whole slew of things, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel sports writer, Greg Bedard, compiled a slew of info for all the stat geeks out there. You can find that info here.
If you want to read what Rodgers himself had to say about this matter, check out the comments from his news conference yesterday.
Or, better yet, you can hear what Rodgers had to say this morning during a live on-air interview with the morning team at 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee. Either Rodgers is in fact the most low key guy around or he just woke up. Yes, it was at 7:15 a.m. so it's probably the latter. He was honest and straightforward about the problems and challenges facing the team right now, as well as what it's like playing in Green Bay. Definitely worth a listen, which you can do here.
To further the statistical analysis of the situation and its impact upon a whole slew of things, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel sports writer, Greg Bedard, compiled a slew of info for all the stat geeks out there. You can find that info here.
If you want to read what Rodgers himself had to say about this matter, check out the comments from his news conference yesterday.
Or, better yet, you can hear what Rodgers had to say this morning during a live on-air interview with the morning team at 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee. Either Rodgers is in fact the most low key guy around or he just woke up. Yes, it was at 7:15 a.m. so it's probably the latter. He was honest and straightforward about the problems and challenges facing the team right now, as well as what it's like playing in Green Bay. Definitely worth a listen, which you can do here.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
New Packer tailgate option: Curly Lambeau's Cottage!
If you want a truly unique Packers tailgate option -- actually, even with or without the game involved -- you can now get together with your buddies for a few hours or the entire day at Curly Lambeau's actual cottage overlooking Green Bay's bay. How's that for putting a new spin on the Lambeau experience?
Turns out the cottage was purchased a number of years ago by the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay. It's available for a minimum of 4 hours for $125 or the whole day (no overnights, though, sorry) for $175. What a deal!
The cottage is set up for meetings, teambuilding experiences, etc. It has a brick-laid fireplace, a small kitchen, and restrooms (those might come in handy, eh?). There's an outdoor barbecue and picnic area overlooking the bay. Sweet.
You can check out more details and see photos of the cottage and grounds here.
Turns out the cottage was purchased a number of years ago by the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay. It's available for a minimum of 4 hours for $125 or the whole day (no overnights, though, sorry) for $175. What a deal!
The cottage is set up for meetings, teambuilding experiences, etc. It has a brick-laid fireplace, a small kitchen, and restrooms (those might come in handy, eh?). There's an outdoor barbecue and picnic area overlooking the bay. Sweet.
You can check out more details and see photos of the cottage and grounds here.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Tauscher IS back with the Pack!
The good news out of Packerland today is that veteran right tackle, Mark Tauscher, was signed to a contract, following about 11 months of rehab on his blown knee.
Here's the gist of the Packers' new release: "The Green Bay Packers have signed T Mark Tauscher and placed CB Will Blackmon on injured reserve. Ted Thompson, Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations, announced the transactions Monday. Tauscher played his first nine NFL seasons (2000-08) with the Packers. He saw action in 122 games, including 120 starts. Blackmon, a fourth-year pro, had seen action in three games in 2009."
Coach Mike McCarthy said in his press conference today that it will probably take Tauscher at least a week to get back into enough football shape to be able to play. So, apparently, don't look to see him much if at all against Detroit on Sunday. More likely to get playing time the following week at Cleveland so he's really ready to go in that big Nov. 1 rematch at Lambeau against the ViQueens and Ol' #4.
It's also possible that both LT Chad Clifton and S Atari Bigby will get playing time this week, although Bigby was still held out of practice today, according to report.
Here's the gist of the Packers' new release: "The Green Bay Packers have signed T Mark Tauscher and placed CB Will Blackmon on injured reserve. Ted Thompson, Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations, announced the transactions Monday. Tauscher played his first nine NFL seasons (2000-08) with the Packers. He saw action in 122 games, including 120 starts. Blackmon, a fourth-year pro, had seen action in three games in 2009."
Coach Mike McCarthy said in his press conference today that it will probably take Tauscher at least a week to get back into enough football shape to be able to play. So, apparently, don't look to see him much if at all against Detroit on Sunday. More likely to get playing time the following week at Cleveland so he's really ready to go in that big Nov. 1 rematch at Lambeau against the ViQueens and Ol' #4.
It's also possible that both LT Chad Clifton and S Atari Bigby will get playing time this week, although Bigby was still held out of practice today, according to report.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
No...revenge had nothing to do with it...not at all
I know, I know. You're tired of it. Everybody's tired of it. But in case you haven't seen it, this photo has started making its way around the 'net in the last day or so. It's of the lovely Deanna Favre taking time to pose with a Vikings fan, in her suite, no less. Just check out the message on the guy's jersey.
Nope...revenge had nothing to do with playing for the 'Queens. Riiiiiiiiiiiiigggghhhhtttttt...
Friday, October 09, 2009
Remember "Gang Green"?
One of the nicknames which has in the past sometimes been applied to the Pack and/or its defensive unit in particular is Gang Green. For a time in the late 1970's and early 1980's, there was also a fan who assumed this persona. He attended every home game, whether at Lambeau Field or, as was the case then, County Stadium in Milwaukee. He was attired in a green fright wig and face paint, tights, T-shirt, and cape. We have that description from newspaper accounts. But we aren't able to find a photo.
Anyway, the reason for bringing this up, is that yours truly received a request from a loyal reader (yes, we do have them!) wondering if anyone out there had any photos of our old friend, Gang Green. Just thought I'd put it out there. If you do have a pic of Mr. Green, feel free to send it to us here at packerfansunited.com and we'll pass it along. Just click on the email link in the righthand column under our Welcome.
That's it. Now, back to your regularly scheduled blog...
Anyway, the reason for bringing this up, is that yours truly received a request from a loyal reader (yes, we do have them!) wondering if anyone out there had any photos of our old friend, Gang Green. Just thought I'd put it out there. If you do have a pic of Mr. Green, feel free to send it to us here at packerfansunited.com and we'll pass it along. Just click on the email link in the righthand column under our Welcome.
That's it. Now, back to your regularly scheduled blog...
Favre most overrated?
By now you have probably already heard the news coming out of a Sports Illustrated poll of 239 current NFL players as to who is the most overrated player in the league. No? You haven't heard? Well, let's get you up to date then. Here are the results of this poll, which was conducted before Week #2 of the season:
My oh my, how the mighty have fallen.
Surely, some players might be reconsidering their votes after Ol' #4's performance Monday night.
Or, maybe not. In a radio interview this morning on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee, Sports Illustrated NFL beat writer (and former NFL player) Ross Tucker said (paraphrasing) that the perception of universal love with which other players in the league hold Brett Favre is a myth. Some do, some don't, said Tucker. He noted that he feels, especially over the last couple years in particular, that Brett has damaged his reputation considerably.
Tucker said that while Favre contends he wanted to play with Minnesota because he wanted to have a chance to win, it was apparent what the real purpose was: revenge on the Packers organization. Tucker said if all Brett wanted to do was play and win he could have done that in New York with the Jets which held his rights. Favre, according to Tucker, manipulated the situation so that he could get out of his contract with the Jets and be free to go where he wanted to go in the first place to stick it to the Packers, as Brett himself said last February.
Tucker said that if someone is a true fan of the Packers he doesn't understand how they could still support Brett's actions. Tucker stated that in 2007, the Packers were open to having Brett return, he told them he was retiring, and the team moved on. "What were they supposed to do?," Tucker asked. He also pointed out that the performance of Aaron Rodgers has proven that the move the Packers made was right for the organization. (If the audio clip of this interview happens to turn up online we'll post a link here later.)
- Brett Favre 13%
- Tony Romo 10%
- Terrell Owens 8%
- Eli Manning 7%
My oh my, how the mighty have fallen.
Surely, some players might be reconsidering their votes after Ol' #4's performance Monday night.
Or, maybe not. In a radio interview this morning on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee, Sports Illustrated NFL beat writer (and former NFL player) Ross Tucker said (paraphrasing) that the perception of universal love with which other players in the league hold Brett Favre is a myth. Some do, some don't, said Tucker. He noted that he feels, especially over the last couple years in particular, that Brett has damaged his reputation considerably.
Tucker said that while Favre contends he wanted to play with Minnesota because he wanted to have a chance to win, it was apparent what the real purpose was: revenge on the Packers organization. Tucker said if all Brett wanted to do was play and win he could have done that in New York with the Jets which held his rights. Favre, according to Tucker, manipulated the situation so that he could get out of his contract with the Jets and be free to go where he wanted to go in the first place to stick it to the Packers, as Brett himself said last February.
Tucker said that if someone is a true fan of the Packers he doesn't understand how they could still support Brett's actions. Tucker stated that in 2007, the Packers were open to having Brett return, he told them he was retiring, and the team moved on. "What were they supposed to do?," Tucker asked. He also pointed out that the performance of Aaron Rodgers has proven that the move the Packers made was right for the organization. (If the audio clip of this interview happens to turn up online we'll post a link here later.)
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Tauscher back with the Pack?
RT Mark Tauscher, coming off nearly a year of rehab from knee injury and resultant free agent status, was back in Green Bay today working out for the team. Reports are that he pass his physical. Tauscher had reportedly also worked out in the last week or so with Kansas City. Early word is that a deal to rejoin the Pack is close. But, I mean, it's not like the Pack needs any offensive line help or anything. A-hem...
Check out this story for more.
Blackmon out for the year
Bad luck continues for fourth-year player Will Blackmon. Returning a kick in last night's game against the ViQueens, Blackmon tore an ACL and is now done for the season. Blackmon, despite his potential, has been a victim of various injuries over the years which have kept him out for extended periods of time. This is another.
Jordy Nelson takes over in the returner's role. Blackmon was also a reserve cornerback and thus his loss also weakens an already injury-plagued defensive backfield.
Check out this story for more.
Blackmon out for the year
Bad luck continues for fourth-year player Will Blackmon. Returning a kick in last night's game against the ViQueens, Blackmon tore an ACL and is now done for the season. Blackmon, despite his potential, has been a victim of various injuries over the years which have kept him out for extended periods of time. This is another.
Jordy Nelson takes over in the returner's role. Blackmon was also a reserve cornerback and thus his loss also weakens an already injury-plagued defensive backfield.
The morning after: Packers fans still say moving on was right
The morning after an emotional game like that of last night between the Packers and ViQueens, a lot of thoughts rolled through people's minds. Plays are analyzed. Schemes are reviewed. Players critiqued. And we'll get to all that over the next day or so probably.
But one immediate take that seems quite revealing -- despite the final score, missed opportunities, and uneven play -- is how fans feel about Ol' #4 today. Or to be more precise, as the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel asked in its online poll, did the Packers do the right thing in parting ways with Brett Favre? You know there are the Ted Thompson haters out there. Heck, maybe you're even one of them. But now, after seeing the heir to Ol' #4 play 20 regular season games as the starting QB, with an 8-12 record during that time, it's reasonable to ask: did the Pack do the right thing?
Here's the latest results at the time of this post:
So, now do you think the Packers did the right thing when they parted ways with Brett Favre?
Yes (67%)
No (33%)
Total Responses: 4182
So, out of more that 4,000 responses so far, two-thirds say "Yes," moving on was the right thing to do.
After watching last night, it's hard to admit that. But for those able to separate being Favre fans from being Packer fans, it's also the right thing to say.
But one immediate take that seems quite revealing -- despite the final score, missed opportunities, and uneven play -- is how fans feel about Ol' #4 today. Or to be more precise, as the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel asked in its online poll, did the Packers do the right thing in parting ways with Brett Favre? You know there are the Ted Thompson haters out there. Heck, maybe you're even one of them. But now, after seeing the heir to Ol' #4 play 20 regular season games as the starting QB, with an 8-12 record during that time, it's reasonable to ask: did the Pack do the right thing?
Here's the latest results at the time of this post:
So, now do you think the Packers did the right thing when they parted ways with Brett Favre?
Yes (67%)
No (33%)
Total Responses: 4182
So, out of more that 4,000 responses so far, two-thirds say "Yes," moving on was the right thing to do.
After watching last night, it's hard to admit that. But for those able to separate being Favre fans from being Packer fans, it's also the right thing to say.
Monday, October 05, 2009
Final: Packers 23 - ViQueens 30
Despite throwing for a career high in passing yardage tonight (384 yards), Aaron Rodgers was unable to overcome yet again a sieve-like offensive line; he was sacked 8 times, including once in the second half for a safety. And the Packers were unable to prevent Favre's revenge game on Ted Thompson. Favre is now the only QB in NFL history to beat every team in the league. Oh, and this soon-to-be 40-year-old quarterback was not sacked once tonight. The Packers defense did, however, hold Adrian Peterson to just 55 yards rushing and one TD.
The Pack went down 30-14 in the half, but made a game of it right down to the end scoring a TD (missed 2-point conversion) and field goal. An onside kick recovered by the 'Queens put an end to the comeback and made the final score 'Queens 30 - Packers 23.
Daryn Colledge, starting at left tackle for the injured Chad Clifton, was himself injured in the second half, resulting in rookie T. J. Lang having to line up across from Jared Allen for a good chunk of the 4th quarter. Yikes. No word on Colledge's injury. Clifton should be back in the starting role after the upcoming bye week.
The Pack has many things to be proud of in this game, including that they never gave up. But also many things to continue to work on. Many things. The Pack helped the 'Queens tonight with penalties and turnovers and missed opportunities. The game will be different come Nov. 1 in Green Bay. That's when we even things up.
The Pack went down 30-14 in the half, but made a game of it right down to the end scoring a TD (missed 2-point conversion) and field goal. An onside kick recovered by the 'Queens put an end to the comeback and made the final score 'Queens 30 - Packers 23.
Daryn Colledge, starting at left tackle for the injured Chad Clifton, was himself injured in the second half, resulting in rookie T. J. Lang having to line up across from Jared Allen for a good chunk of the 4th quarter. Yikes. No word on Colledge's injury. Clifton should be back in the starting role after the upcoming bye week.
The Pack has many things to be proud of in this game, including that they never gave up. But also many things to continue to work on. Many things. The Pack helped the 'Queens tonight with penalties and turnovers and missed opportunities. The game will be different come Nov. 1 in Green Bay. That's when we even things up.
3rd quarter story: dropped TD pass
The ViQueens continued to be ably led by Ol' #4 and went up 28-14 in the quarter.
However, the Packers drove to the 'Queens 1-yard line late in the quarter. On 4th and 1, the Pack went for it. Rodgers found a wide open TE Donald Lee in the end zone. Only problem: Lee dropped the ball. Yet another blown opportunity.
This has been the ongoing story of this game. Yes, the guys in the funky purple are playing well, as expected. The Packers are, too. But are missing opportunity after opportunity...not something you can do in a game like this.
The Packers also have gotten no pressure on Favre. On one play in their TD drive, Favre had 7.3 seconds (according to the TV replay) to find a receiver...no Packer defender got within 10 yards of him. Hard to figure why they aren't bringing more pressure. They've done a good job keeping Adrian Peterson in check. But why they aren't selling out to nail Favre is hard to understand.
So, 15 minutes left. And unless there is a major turnabout or two, this might be a difficult hole for the Pack to dig out of. And the sad part is, it's a hole they've dug for themselves tonight. The 'Queens certainly didn't need any help.
However, the Packers drove to the 'Queens 1-yard line late in the quarter. On 4th and 1, the Pack went for it. Rodgers found a wide open TE Donald Lee in the end zone. Only problem: Lee dropped the ball. Yet another blown opportunity.
This has been the ongoing story of this game. Yes, the guys in the funky purple are playing well, as expected. The Packers are, too. But are missing opportunity after opportunity...not something you can do in a game like this.
The Packers also have gotten no pressure on Favre. On one play in their TD drive, Favre had 7.3 seconds (according to the TV replay) to find a receiver...no Packer defender got within 10 yards of him. Hard to figure why they aren't bringing more pressure. They've done a good job keeping Adrian Peterson in check. But why they aren't selling out to nail Favre is hard to understand.
So, 15 minutes left. And unless there is a major turnabout or two, this might be a difficult hole for the Pack to dig out of. And the sad part is, it's a hole they've dug for themselves tonight. The 'Queens certainly didn't need any help.
Pack - Vikes 1st half story: turnovers
The Packers have played well in the first half. Except for two turnovers down near the ViQueens red zone. OK, that's not so good. The first was a fumble by QB Aaron Rodgers, and the second was an interception. Both times, the Pack was driving. Each time, they easily would have gotten at least 3 points. And, both times, the ViQueens turned the turnovers into 7 points. The Pack did score on a great throw and run after catch by Jermichael Finley for a 62-yard TD play.
The score after the 1st quarter was 7-7. The 'Queens went up 14-7 about halfway through the second quarter.
Then the Pack finally got a turnover of its own, and took it back for a TD. Tacklers were holding up Adrian Peterson and LB Clay Matthews stripped him of the ball and took it back 42 yards for the score. Bang: 14-14.
A late drive by the 'Queens put them up by 7 at the half. Favre was picked off in the end zone by Charles Woodson. But there was a defensive holding penalty on the play and the refs also called -- as even the announcers acknowledged -- a ticky-tack pass interference penalty on Woodson. That gave the 'Queens first down at the 1. Adrian Peterson carried it on the next play for the go-ahead score.
In the half, 21 of the 35 total points came off turnovers.
Ol' #4 in the funky purple is making good throws. Hasn't been sacked yet, unfortunately. He's getting the ball out quickly and looking like, well, you know. New #12 in the Green 'n ' Gold is making good throws as well, with the exception of the pick. He is having to make more throws on the move, though, as protection -- while not bad -- is still not great.
Just as expected, this game will be a tight one. And probably down to the wire.
Unfortunately, returner Will Blackmon went down on a kick return with a knee injury and was taken to the locker room on a cart for X-rays. Doesn't look good. And considering Blackmon's history of not being able to stay healthy for long, you just hate to see this happen again.
Turnovers were a big factor in the first half. Penalties on the Packers also have played a nagging role in the game. The Pack has hurt themselves in this game. Would rather have the Pack go in up, of course, but to go into half down by 7...still very winnable especially with the Pack's big play ability. By the way, no team in the last two years has had more "big plays" -- plays of 40 yards or more -- than the Pack. If the Pack can make a few corrections at half, and continue to play with the intensity they have...the Pack can still win this game.
Go Pack Go!!!
The score after the 1st quarter was 7-7. The 'Queens went up 14-7 about halfway through the second quarter.
Then the Pack finally got a turnover of its own, and took it back for a TD. Tacklers were holding up Adrian Peterson and LB Clay Matthews stripped him of the ball and took it back 42 yards for the score. Bang: 14-14.
A late drive by the 'Queens put them up by 7 at the half. Favre was picked off in the end zone by Charles Woodson. But there was a defensive holding penalty on the play and the refs also called -- as even the announcers acknowledged -- a ticky-tack pass interference penalty on Woodson. That gave the 'Queens first down at the 1. Adrian Peterson carried it on the next play for the go-ahead score.
In the half, 21 of the 35 total points came off turnovers.
Ol' #4 in the funky purple is making good throws. Hasn't been sacked yet, unfortunately. He's getting the ball out quickly and looking like, well, you know. New #12 in the Green 'n ' Gold is making good throws as well, with the exception of the pick. He is having to make more throws on the move, though, as protection -- while not bad -- is still not great.
Just as expected, this game will be a tight one. And probably down to the wire.
Unfortunately, returner Will Blackmon went down on a kick return with a knee injury and was taken to the locker room on a cart for X-rays. Doesn't look good. And considering Blackmon's history of not being able to stay healthy for long, you just hate to see this happen again.
Turnovers were a big factor in the first half. Penalties on the Packers also have played a nagging role in the game. The Pack has hurt themselves in this game. Would rather have the Pack go in up, of course, but to go into half down by 7...still very winnable especially with the Pack's big play ability. By the way, no team in the last two years has had more "big plays" -- plays of 40 yards or more -- than the Pack. If the Pack can make a few corrections at half, and continue to play with the intensity they have...the Pack can still win this game.
Go Pack Go!!!
Tonight's the night - Packers vs. ViQueens preview
As everyone in the civilized world knows -- and for those of you not in the civilized world...you know who you are -- Ted Thompson plays Brett Favre this evening in the Humpty Dump. Translation for those that need it: the Packers play the ViQueens in Minnesota, don't ya know.
You've read, heard and seen all the interviews, projections, story lines, etc. about this game since Ol' #4 finally got back in the NFC North to show Ted Thompson what a mistake he made. Great. So enough with all that hoopla.
The 'Queens are favored by 4 points going into tonight's game. They have Ol' #4 slinging the football around. Which might work well, or maybe not. Depends. As we all know, sometimes Brett can get a bit jacked up and/or a bit overconfident. He'll make some throws, of course, that only he can make. But he also might try some throw he shouldn't. I think the likelihood is greater that he will get picked off than will Aaron Rodgers.
The running game edge goes clearly to Minnesota. If the Packers aren't able to hold Adrian Peterson in check, it will be a long night. The passing game -- assuming the Packers can protect or scheme Rodgers to avoid what is arguably the best front 4 in football -- favors the Pack. That's a big assumption, I know. Especially since LT Chad Clifton is still questionable for tonight's game. The Packers did finally figure out a way to protect Rodgers in the second half of last week's game in St. Louis. But the caliber of defensive rush he will face from the ViQueens is of a whole other level than that. The Pack have had to hold tight ends in to provide protection. Rodgers is good throwing on the run, and can also use his legs to stretch the field. It would also be a very good time for RB Ryan Grant to start breaking through the line for 4 or 5 yards a carry rather than 1 or 2 in order to keep the defense honest. The defensive line edge goes to the 'Queens, but the Pack isn't as far behind as some people may think.
Brett Favre hasn't yet lost to a Dom Capers-coached team or defense...but he was playing with the Packers then, too. That means the odds are skewed in the Packers' defense's favor tonight. Special teams? Call it a toss up. Unless it comes down to a last second field goal, as it often does in these games. Edge there goes to old Packer Ryan Longwell; Packers K Mason Crosby is still inconsistent when it's on the line.
Get yourself a cup for the Green 'n' Gold kool-aid, kids. We're taking the Pack 27-24 in a very physical game. Good thing the Pack have a bye coming up next weekend. They'll need it after tonight. But earning a hard-won victory will make the aches a bit less painful. As will sitting atop the NFC North after beating both Da Bearz and the 'Queens.
Go Pack Go!!!
You've read, heard and seen all the interviews, projections, story lines, etc. about this game since Ol' #4 finally got back in the NFC North to show Ted Thompson what a mistake he made. Great. So enough with all that hoopla.
The 'Queens are favored by 4 points going into tonight's game. They have Ol' #4 slinging the football around. Which might work well, or maybe not. Depends. As we all know, sometimes Brett can get a bit jacked up and/or a bit overconfident. He'll make some throws, of course, that only he can make. But he also might try some throw he shouldn't. I think the likelihood is greater that he will get picked off than will Aaron Rodgers.
The running game edge goes clearly to Minnesota. If the Packers aren't able to hold Adrian Peterson in check, it will be a long night. The passing game -- assuming the Packers can protect or scheme Rodgers to avoid what is arguably the best front 4 in football -- favors the Pack. That's a big assumption, I know. Especially since LT Chad Clifton is still questionable for tonight's game. The Packers did finally figure out a way to protect Rodgers in the second half of last week's game in St. Louis. But the caliber of defensive rush he will face from the ViQueens is of a whole other level than that. The Pack have had to hold tight ends in to provide protection. Rodgers is good throwing on the run, and can also use his legs to stretch the field. It would also be a very good time for RB Ryan Grant to start breaking through the line for 4 or 5 yards a carry rather than 1 or 2 in order to keep the defense honest. The defensive line edge goes to the 'Queens, but the Pack isn't as far behind as some people may think.
Brett Favre hasn't yet lost to a Dom Capers-coached team or defense...but he was playing with the Packers then, too. That means the odds are skewed in the Packers' defense's favor tonight. Special teams? Call it a toss up. Unless it comes down to a last second field goal, as it often does in these games. Edge there goes to old Packer Ryan Longwell; Packers K Mason Crosby is still inconsistent when it's on the line.
Get yourself a cup for the Green 'n' Gold kool-aid, kids. We're taking the Pack 27-24 in a very physical game. Good thing the Pack have a bye coming up next weekend. They'll need it after tonight. But earning a hard-won victory will make the aches a bit less painful. As will sitting atop the NFC North after beating both Da Bearz and the 'Queens.
Go Pack Go!!!
Friday, October 02, 2009
Anything goin' on this week...hmm???
It must be an uneventful week. Haven't made a post. Not much goin' on, I guess.
What's that? The Packers are playing the ViQueens on Monday? And their quarterback is...who? Nah...he retired two years ago! Wait, he unretired. But then he retired again, right? But now you say he's playing again. And for the ViQueens? Get outta town! What? Oh, that's what Brett did.
Yes, Packer fans, we are -- each and every one of us -- now part of Ol' #4's Felliniesque life story. No, change that. As surreal as Fellini's films may be, I think Kafkaesque would be a more suitable definition of our joy ride with Mr. Favre over the last few years. While I'm reluctant to use Wikipedia as a reliable reference source for, say, financial advice and medical diagnosis, for definitions of terms such as Kafkaesque, it's good enough (especially when it references other sources): "marked by a senseless, disorienting, often menacing complexity" and "marked by surreal distortion and often a sense of impending danger". But if you still prefer the tried and true Merriam-Webster, here's that definition: "having a nightmarishly complex, bizarre, or illogical quality." Yep...seems to describe what has been. And, what we will see Monday night.
But perhaps one of the more bizarre moments came during Brett's conference call yesterday with many Wisconsin-based reporters. They were asking some tough questions about which Brett apparently didn't think much about beforehand. And so some of his answers were a bit...oh...waffling. Shocking, isn't it?
For example, the revenge factor in all this. Brett said, "Never was motivated for that reason. No. That has nothing to do with it." Then one of the reporters reminded him of his comments to Sports Illustrated (si.com) last February where he said that at least part of the reason he played last season was for the purpose of "sticking it" to Packers GM Ted Thompson. That's when Brett made one of many backpedals on the day, saying, "It's human nature to feel, I didn't use the word revenge, but to prove that you still could play. To prove someone wrong, or prove a group wrong. So you can call it what you want." Okaaaaay.
But, Brett, a reporter asked, if revenge wasn't part of it and all you wanted to do was play, why didn't you just stay with the Jets? Brett then said at the end of last season he knew he had a torn right biceps tendon and he wasn't willing to have surgery to continue playing. "I knew I had an injury that would require surgery if I chose to play," he said. "And as disappointed as I was, I chose to go home and not have it and they chose to go in a different direction. That's how it evolved." OK, a reporter asked, then why did you ask to be released from your Jets contract when you retired? More to the point, why did you decide to have the surgery when it became apparent you could play for the ViQueens (remember, which he just said he didn't want to have in order to continue playing with the Jets)? An interesting response ensued (this would be at least backpedal #2 if you're counting): "None of that matters now anyway. What matters is this game Monday night, and that's all that matters. This team has welcomed me here. It's been a lot of fun, it's been a lot of work, but I'm having a good time. And that's all that matters."
As was mentioned on one of the sports talk shows afterward, that last point was probably the most critical: "...but I'm having a good time. And that's all that matters."
Yep. It's all about you, Brett, all about you.
And as much as you say it's not about revenge, you yourself admitted in February and again yesterday, it is. You want to make it just another game. But here's hoping you have one of your Brett moments...you know...where you are so jacked up and so compelled to make the big play that you overthrow your receivers and try to force passes you should have no business throwing. Let's have one of your bonehead games Monday night.
Please, Brett, you owe it to both Fellini and Kafka.
You can read more about yesterday's conference all here. You'll find the complete transcript here. And if you want to listen to the song and dance, you can hear the audio here at the Packers.com audio site (just click on the Oct. Brett Favre conference call).
What's that? The Packers are playing the ViQueens on Monday? And their quarterback is...who? Nah...he retired two years ago! Wait, he unretired. But then he retired again, right? But now you say he's playing again. And for the ViQueens? Get outta town! What? Oh, that's what Brett did.
Yes, Packer fans, we are -- each and every one of us -- now part of Ol' #4's Felliniesque life story. No, change that. As surreal as Fellini's films may be, I think Kafkaesque would be a more suitable definition of our joy ride with Mr. Favre over the last few years. While I'm reluctant to use Wikipedia as a reliable reference source for, say, financial advice and medical diagnosis, for definitions of terms such as Kafkaesque, it's good enough (especially when it references other sources): "marked by a senseless, disorienting, often menacing complexity" and "marked by surreal distortion and often a sense of impending danger". But if you still prefer the tried and true Merriam-Webster, here's that definition: "having a nightmarishly complex, bizarre, or illogical quality." Yep...seems to describe what has been. And, what we will see Monday night.
But perhaps one of the more bizarre moments came during Brett's conference call yesterday with many Wisconsin-based reporters. They were asking some tough questions about which Brett apparently didn't think much about beforehand. And so some of his answers were a bit...oh...waffling. Shocking, isn't it?
For example, the revenge factor in all this. Brett said, "Never was motivated for that reason. No. That has nothing to do with it." Then one of the reporters reminded him of his comments to Sports Illustrated (si.com) last February where he said that at least part of the reason he played last season was for the purpose of "sticking it" to Packers GM Ted Thompson. That's when Brett made one of many backpedals on the day, saying, "It's human nature to feel, I didn't use the word revenge, but to prove that you still could play. To prove someone wrong, or prove a group wrong. So you can call it what you want." Okaaaaay.
But, Brett, a reporter asked, if revenge wasn't part of it and all you wanted to do was play, why didn't you just stay with the Jets? Brett then said at the end of last season he knew he had a torn right biceps tendon and he wasn't willing to have surgery to continue playing. "I knew I had an injury that would require surgery if I chose to play," he said. "And as disappointed as I was, I chose to go home and not have it and they chose to go in a different direction. That's how it evolved." OK, a reporter asked, then why did you ask to be released from your Jets contract when you retired? More to the point, why did you decide to have the surgery when it became apparent you could play for the ViQueens (remember, which he just said he didn't want to have in order to continue playing with the Jets)? An interesting response ensued (this would be at least backpedal #2 if you're counting): "None of that matters now anyway. What matters is this game Monday night, and that's all that matters. This team has welcomed me here. It's been a lot of fun, it's been a lot of work, but I'm having a good time. And that's all that matters."
As was mentioned on one of the sports talk shows afterward, that last point was probably the most critical: "...but I'm having a good time. And that's all that matters."
Yep. It's all about you, Brett, all about you.
And as much as you say it's not about revenge, you yourself admitted in February and again yesterday, it is. You want to make it just another game. But here's hoping you have one of your Brett moments...you know...where you are so jacked up and so compelled to make the big play that you overthrow your receivers and try to force passes you should have no business throwing. Let's have one of your bonehead games Monday night.
Please, Brett, you owe it to both Fellini and Kafka.
You can read more about yesterday's conference all here. You'll find the complete transcript here. And if you want to listen to the song and dance, you can hear the audio here at the Packers.com audio site (just click on the Oct. Brett Favre conference call).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
