Sunday, December 31, 2017

NFL Week 17: Packers vs Lions ... The End.

Week 17 of the 2017 NFL season brings with it, mercifully, the end of the Packers waylaid season. Striving to finish at 8-8 today against the Lions in Detroit, after beginning the season with Super Bowl hopes, the Pack will be hard-pressed to make that happen being without at least 7 starters. This will be essentially a preseason game for the Packers with lots of youth on display and probably not much else. Backup QB Brett Hundley needs all the help he can get and then some to score points; that will be in short supply today. The only thing that creates a possibility for avoiding another shutout is that the game is on the road where Hundley somehow performs marginally better.

The Prediction

Yes, we're getting this out of the way early for those who wish to move along quickly. While some players might be playing for contracts, or auditioning for other teams, playing for pride just doesn't seem to matter much lately. If it did, we wouldn't have seen the level of play -- even from back ups -- that we've seen over the last several weeks. Whether that's a coaching problem or player problem or even a general manager problem, the effect has been the same: poor play. Why would we expect that to change today? Don't.

The Lions are favored by 6-1/2 points. Let's see: Matthew Stafford at QB vs. Brett Hundley at QB? C'mon.

We're calling it Packers 10 - Lions 24.

Still...Go Pack Go!!!

After the Game...After the Season...

The now well-documented demise of this season began with the broken collarbone to QB Aaron Rodgers and an ongoing rash of injuries decimating virtually every other unit on the team. As we know, though, injuries don't explain all of the problems.

The autopsy of the 2017 Packers has been underway for weeks and will continue long into the post-season. It's not shocking. Word already has it the long-suffering (at least on the part of Packers fans) defensive coordinator Dom Capers is out once the season is over. Who will head coach Mike McCarthy choose to replace him? There are many good options, as this article by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's great writer, Tom Silverstein, points out.

Some talk has been floating that it's time for GM Ted Thompson to move on, despite one year remaining on his contract. We would be shocked if Packers President Mark Murphy were to force Thompson out before the end of that contract, even though there are mounting reasons it would be a wise move to make at this time. Expect Thompson to be pulling the trigger for the 2018 NFL Draft and free agency.

Thompson did get an early start on the offseason in the last several days signing WR Davante Adams and C Corey Linsley to contract extension. Wise moves, although the money for a three-times-concussed Adams might be a bit on the high side. Time will tell.

Again, we'll have plenty of time to dissect this past season and project our collective hopes onto next season in the weeks and months ahead. We'll be seeing you around. Be sure to follow us on Twitter for more real-time commentary!  :-)

Saturday, December 23, 2017

NFL Week 16: Packers vs. Vikings

For the last time in this disappointing 2017 season, the Green Bay Packers will don their home uniforms and play at Lambeau Field tonight. The opponent is the rival NFC North Division Champions, the Minnesota ViQueens. Don't expect any Christmas Eve eve miracles. Or even a Festivus miracle. That tank ran dry much earlier in the season.

The Packers play their last home game of the season tonight,
with backup QB Brett Hundley executing the play calls.
(Photo: Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)
After a one-game return against Carolina in a losing effort, QB Aaron Rodgers became the Pack's Elf on the Shelf by being placed on the injured reserve list for the rest of the season. A wise move by the powers that be. After this season, there will need to be a number of other wise moves made by the Packers organization, including whether it's time to move GM Ted Thompson down the road (doubtful) or kick defensive coordinator Dom Capers to the curb (more likely). But those are conversations for another time.

For now, let's consider that the Packers, despite a plethora of injuries over the course of the season, have truly underperformed...especially when compared to their purple-clad counterparts. Minnesota, through drafts and free agency, have put together one of the best defenses in the NFL right now. And they are starting their third option at quarterback -- Case Keenum -- and still lighting things up.

The Packers...well...haven't done much this season, particularly after Rodgers went down. Not that there's not talent on the Pack's defense, but it doesn't take much to see how week after week this Packers defense has been out of position, out-schemed, and out-hustled. Granted, losing Aaron Rodgers for half the season exposed just how much he was able to cover up on both sides of the ball. But he didn't play defense. That's on Thompson and the coaching staff. And especially the players for not getting it done. Is it any wonder there were no Packers players voted to the Pro Bowl? (Although, clearly, LT David Bakhtiari got...what's the expression? Oh, yes...hosed!)

For tonight, backup QB Brett Hundley will once again be the starter, as he will in the finale at Detroit. Without his favorite target, Davante Adams, it will be interesting to see who he decides to target. Expect a lot of the run game. Also, expect many young players to see time tonight. In some respects -- even though the Pack says they are playing for pride right now with playoffs off the table -- this will be like a winter preseason game for the Pack, at least in our view. For the Vikes, they are still playing for a first-round bye so expect them to have a bit more incentive than do the Packers. They also want to be the first team in NFL history to play a Super Bowl in their home stadium should they actually make it through the NFC playoffs. That's also a conversation for another time.

The Prediction

We could spend a lot more time going into who's playing, who's not, etc. But really, let's just cut to the chase. At the time of this posting, Minnesota is listed as an 8-1/2-point favorite over the Pack.

We're calling this one Packers 17 - ViQueens 30.

We hope we're wrong. But on this given day in this given season, it pains us to say that Minnesota is the better team.

Still...Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, December 17, 2017

NFL Week 15: Packers vs. Carolina aka The Return of Aaron Rodgers

It's been two months since we've seen the two-time NFL MVP, Aaron Rodgers, behind center for the Green Bay Packers. The Pack went 3-4 during that period behind the able, and occasionally outstanding, work of QB Brett Hundley and teammates. The Packers are sitting at 7-6 with three games left and paper-thin playoff hopes still alive.


The Packers hope the return of QB Aaron Rodgers reignites WR Jordy Nelson
and the rest of the Packers offense in their game against Carolina.
(Photo: Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)
It was a somewhat similar situation in 2013 when Rodgers returned after a long absence, also from a broken collarbone (non-throwing shoulder), to face Da Bearz. In that return, Rodgers showed rust early, throwing interceptions on his first two series. Then he got his mojo back, leading the Pack to a win over Chicago. Today, Packer fans hope for a similar result against the Carolina Panthers, who are ahead of the Packers in the playoff hunt. A win today -- and the next two weeks -- are essential for the Packers to have a shot, albeit a long one, at grabbing a wild card spot.

But first things first: what do things look like against the Panthers? Well, the oddsmakers have installed Carolina as a 3-point favorite at the time of this writing, i.e., home field advantage. Sure. Plus the freak of nature that is Cam Newton. And a really good defense. The Panthers should get the favorite designation today. The Packers will also be light in the defensive backfield once again, opening up potential downfield catches for Carolina receivers. And let's not forget Carolina's running game...which includes more than just Jonathon Stewart. You have to count Newton as a running back, as well, as he can take off and pick up huge yards if not kept in check. No quarterback in the league has more rushing yards this season than Newton.

So, Carolina presents huge challenges for the Packers defense. But, honestly, what team hasn't for this Packers team this season? Specifically, though, how do you keep Newton in check? It can be done. He can be an inconsistent quarterback who either gets frustrated or takes all he can get. You just hope the Pack is able to do enough today on defense to not let him take over the game. Will the Packers devote someone to shadow Newton? Some reports indicate that if the Packers take that approach, it might be that LB Blake Martinez gets the assignment. Martinez has had a great second season, and is perhaps best suited to assume that task.

For the Pack, it will likely take a few series for Rodgers to shake off the rust and get his timing back with his receivers. But, thankfully, over the past few months the Packers have been able to find a running game behind Jamaal Williams and Aaron Jones, so that will relieve some of the pressure on Rodgers to carry the whole load on his still-recovering shoulders.


The Prediction

We think this is going to be a close game. We're used to that, though, with three overtime wins this season including two in the last two games. But this game will have Rodgers at the helm and not Hundley (barring re-injury to Rodgers) and that means the odds just got better for a Packers win. Many pundits, however, are still picking Carolina for many of the reasons noted above. Can't blame them. Seems like a pick 'em game in many respects.

But we think the return of Rodgers will lift the play of the entire team just enough to sneak out of Carolina with a much-needed win.

We're calling this game Packers 31 - Panthers 30.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, December 10, 2017

2017 NFL Week 14: Packers vs. Browns

Oh, boy. Nothing like going up against an 0-12 team in their home stadium with a hot-and-mostly-cold backup quarterback at the helm of your team...and a secondary down to back-ups to back-ups, as well. That's what the Green Bay Packers are dealing with today. And if they think that it's an automatic win given the prior record of the Browns, well, the Pack might just hand the lowly team in Cleveland their first victory of the season. Wouldn't that be depressing?

Cleveland has been close in many of its games, yet their rookie quarterback, DeShone Kizer, has been a turnover machine, helping keep the team winless. On the other hand, the Browns defense is eighth overall against the run. They are a better team overall than the record indicates. They are close. In an Aaron Rodgers-led Packers pass-happy offense, none of this would be a concern. But given that the resurgent running game has now become a big part of the Pack's offense, this could present problems for the Packers if QB Brett Hundley isn't able to complete at least a few passes downfield to soften up the rush a bit. Given Hundley's penchant for performing better on the road than at home, perhaps we get the "good" Hundley today. Let us pray.

The Browns do have a big receiving threat in WR Josh Gordon. But, again, their rookie QB may provide the Pack's defense with interception opportunities. Given that the Packers secondary is missing some key pieces today, bad quarterback play would certainly be a help in mitigating a passing threat.

Late news: Packers cornerback Davon House is active for the game but outside linebacker Nick Perry is out.

In years to come, the Browns may actually have themselves a good organization due to the hiring late this week of former Packers linebacker and front office man -- and recent Kansas City Chiefs General Manager -- John Dorsey. He's a good one -- wouldn't have minded seeing him come back to the Pack to replace Ted Thompson -- and he'll do what he can to build a winning organization. But that won't be in time for today's game.


The Prediction

We're getting right to this, Packer fans, as game time is fast approaching.

The Packers are favored by 3 points at the time of this post. We think the game will be ugly. But this is a must-win game for the Pack if they wish to not only keep their paper-thin playoff hopes alive but retain any sense of football dignity; you can't be the one that gives a winless team its first win for the season. Just. Can't. Do. It.

We're calling this Packers 24 - Browns 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, December 03, 2017

2017 NFL Week 13: Packers vs. Buccaneers

So, Packers fans, we got a better Brett Hundley at quarterback last week vs. the Steelers. But still not good enough in other areas of the game, particularly on defense -- and, some may say, coaching -- to win the game. The Steelers are 9-2 for a reason, just as the Packers are now 5-6 overall and 1-5 since losing QB Aaron Rodgers at Minnesota.

The good news, looking ahead, is that Rodgers actually -- officially -- practiced yesterday...although he still can't come off injured reserve for the next two weeks...if he's ready. And, more good news, the Packers are still technically alive at 5-6 for a playoff spot. Technically. Win today at home against Tampa Bay and next week at Cleveland -- two winnable games (but wasn't Baltimore???) -- and it's likely the Pack will reactivate Rodgers for that stretch run, if his collarbone passes X-ray examination, of course. If the Pack loses today, that likelihood starts to narrow. But that's looking ahead, as we said. Let's stay focused on today, shall we?

The Packers need backup QB Brett Hundley to play like he did against the Steelers
for the team to have a chance to keep pace in the NFC Wildcard
playoff hunt before Aaron Rodgers returns.
(Photo: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports)
Probably like most fans and pundits, we don't quite know what Packers team will show up: the one that played the Steelers nose-to-nose for 59 minutes and 56 seconds of the game last week, or the one that laid down and scored nothing against a mediocre Baltimore team...both losses. If Hundley actually progressed to the degree we saw against the Steelers, the Packers have a chance for a win. If he plays as he did vs. the Ravens, probably not.

It's not all on Hundley, of course, Aside from LB Blake Martinez and a few others on defense, tackling has generally been abysmal, the pass rush non-existent and the secondary a sieve. Is it the players or the coordinator and scheme (here we go again on that annual conversation, right?)? Whatever the situation, the Packers need to win every game from here on out. Likely? No. But you can't win 'em all before you win the first one. And that's today.

The Prediction

The Packers are favored by 3.5 points at the time of this writing. With Buccaneers' QB Jameis Winston in his first game today after a 3-game hiatus, there will have to be some rust. Still, he's a dangerous runner and could give the Pack's defense fits if they don't get to him early and often. The Bucs will be missing 2 starters from their offensive line, which should benefit the Packers pass rush...at least, theoretically. On defense, the Bucs should give Hundley opportunities in the secondary. And if Packers RB Jamaal Williams can reprise his effort of last week, that will also help open things up for Hundley and the receivers.

This game was once referred to as the "Bay of Pigs' game when it was a twice-per-season division meeting. Neither team was good back in those days, as the name implies. While it's not a return to those times, the game could devolve to poor play if players don't play like the season is the line, which it is for the Packers. Weather will not be a factor today, as it will be a positively balmy December 3 game at Lambeau Field.

After it's all said and done, we believe the Pack will do enough to win.

We're calling it Packers 24 - Buccaneers 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, November 26, 2017

2017 NFL Week 12: Packers vs. Steelers

OK, Packers fans...due to a variety of circumstances of interest to no one but yours truly, this post is being made only about 15 minutes before kickoff. As a result, we're going to do something different to save time and space: i.e., get to the point.

Tonight's game will not be pretty. The Steelers are 8-2 and the Packers are 5-5. Pittsburgh is a 14-point favorite. While the Packers defense has shown some signs of life, the offense under backup QB Brett Hundley is moribund (look it up).


The Prediction

So let's get to that aforementioned point. We're calling this one Packers 13 - Steelers 31.

We really hope we're wrong. Because if we're not, the Pack will have jumped the shark this season and we can start looking to the offseason.

With that...Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, November 19, 2017

2017 NFL Week 11: Packers vs. Ravens

First, let's just acknowledge that the Green Bay Packers did what they needed to do last weekend in Chicago: win. In doing so, the Pack stopped a three-game losing streak and beat a team that -- with or without Aaron Rodgers at quarterback -- the Packers should beat. They also kept alive playoff hopes, staying alive at 5-4 and two games behind the ViQueens in the NFC North. In doing so, we also perhaps saw some glimpses of what QB Brett Hundley can do...at least occasionally. But the Packers also lost two running backs, Ty Montgomery and Aaron Jones, as well as their starting right tackle, Bryan Bulaga.

Which brings us to today's game at Lambeau Field against the Baltimore Ravens. It's a bit of a mixed bag meets a bit of a mixed bag. That's because, like the 5-4 Packers, the 4-5 Ravens have a little bit of this going for them and a little bit of that, too.

Ravens QB Joe Flacco isn't having a great year, but he still has a great arm and, lest we forget, is a Super Bowl-winning quarterback. In short, against a porous secondary and a defensive front without a pass rush, Flacco could display the arm that sees him earning the big -- and some would say, overpaid -- bucks.


Damarious Randall and the rest of the Packers secondary
will have to play exceptionally well today to keep
Ravens' QB Joe Flacco and his receivers in check.
(Photo: Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)
The Ravens defense, especially coming off a bye week, is a good one and will certainly throw everything it can at the still-inexperienced Brett Hundley. The Packers will need Jamaal Williams, the now starter at running back, and Devante Mays -- getting his first NFL carries -- to take pressure off Hundley with a solid rushing attack. At the same time, Hundley will need to be more decisive early in the game than he's shown to date. It seems that in his first outings as starting QB, Hundley does better in two-minute drills and pressure situations. A sense of urgency needs to kick in much sooner or this could be a game that gets away from the Packers early.

The Prediction
The Ravens are favored by 2 points at the time of this writing. We do think this is a toss up game. The Packers are inexperienced in the offensive backfield and the Ravens big defensive front and experienced secondary would seem to be able to cause enough problems for both the running and passing games of the Packers.

But...if the Packers are able to keep this game close, we think that they will make one more play than will the Ravens.

We're calling this Packers 20 - Ravens 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

P.S. How 'bout them Wisconsin Badgers?! 11-0! Go Badgers! On Wisconsin!

Sunday, November 12, 2017

2017 NFL Week 10: Packers vs. Bears

This is it, Packer fans. We're back to the days of saying, "If we can only win two games (or one, in this case today), let it be against Da Bearz." And today, folks, is one of those days when it matters perhaps more than other times.

After losing QB Aaron Rodgers (likely for the season, in our view) and the game at Minnesota, the Pack have gone on a three-game losing streak -- losing at home to both New Orleans and Detroit -- and now sit at 4-4, just one game ahead of the bottom-feeding Chicago Bears in the NFC North. Packers backup QB Brett Hundley has so far shown us...well...not much. Part of that might be head coach Mike McCarthy's game plans for him, as well as perhaps overrating Hundley's ability. Part of that might be Hundley himself and this is going to be as good as he gets...which isn't good enough to help right the ship and keep the Packers in the playoff hunt this season.

But, perhaps a bigger issue than the lack of offensive production we've seen with Hundley at the helm -- which is certainly bad enough, granted -- has been the collapse of the Packers defense time after time and especially on third downs. The defense's inability to stop the opposition on third down, to execute a pass rush of any kind, and to muster any kind of mojo lies both with the players as well as defensive coordinator Dom Capers.

Packers defensive end Mike Daniels hasn't had a QB sack in 5 games.
The entire Packers defense must play at a high level today against Chicago.
(Photo: Jim Matthews/USATODAY NETWORK-Wi)

In the latter regard, local sports writers are starting to opine -- perhaps for the first time since Capers has been on staff -- that his job may be on the line. Finally. Head coach Mike McCarthy is extremely loyal to his staff, and seemingly to Capers in particular. But if the defense does not get turned around, this may be Capers' swan song...to the delight of Packer fans near and far who have wanted to see him gone for years. With all the draft picks that GM Ted Thompson has provided on defense over Capers' tenure, to see the same results year after year is maddening. Wait, what? The Packers have been winning and going into the playoffs, right? Yes, but perhaps what we are all now seeing is just how much the play of Aaron Rodgers has covered up some glaring weaknesses in other areas of the team. When Rodgers is under center, you always have a chance to score points and win...a chance to overcome bad play by your defense. When Rodgers is gone...? Not. So. Much.


Coach McCarthy publicly called out his team this week saying that since Rodgers went down no one on the team has stepped up their play. Some pundits are even speculating that players, again, especially those on defense, may no longer be listening to their main man, Capers. Today would be a good day for at least a few players on each side of the ball to play with some passion. To show that they don't want to flush this second half of the season down the toilet, but at least try to win enough to stay in the playoff hunt. If the Packers don't somehow win today against Chicago, the likelihood of being able to get to even 9-7, let alone 8-8, dims significantly.

The Prediction

While we would normally feel good about going into Chicago and getting a win against a not-very-good Bears team, particularly one with a rookie quarterback, these are not normal times for the Green Bay Packers. Da Bearz defense could well pose problems for Hundley and the Packers' sputtering offense. While neither Chicago's QB or receivers are much to be worried about based upon stats, the way the Packers defense has been a sieve gives us the sense that the Pack could make these guys look like All Pros by the end of the game. Chicago does have a good running back combo and that could create enough problems on its own given the Pack's level of play recently.

Still, even with all that, and playing in what might very well be sloppy weather conditions, our heart of hearts (as opposed to our gut of guts...is that a thing, btw?) tells us that somehow, someway, the Packers are going to win this game. It won't be pretty. And we expect it to be close, despite the oddsmakers favoring Da Bearz by 5-points at the time of this writing. We hope and believe that there is some measure of Packer pride left that will do just enough to come away with a win today.

We're calling it Packers 20 - Bears 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

Monday, November 06, 2017

2017 NFL Week 9: Packers vs. Lions

Coming off a two-game losing streak (at Minnesota and home against the Saints) following the likely season-ending loss of QB Aaron Rodgers and the team's bye week, Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy has declared that the team is prepared with a game plan on both sides that will put its players in a position to succeed. Bottom line: Packers will win this game at Lambeau Field vs. NFC North Division rival Detroit.

That's the head coach's view. You wouldn't expect him to say anything else. The oddsmakers favor the Lions by 2 points at the time of this writing.

How are you feeling, Packers fans? Be honest. Probably not great. With Rodgers out, it seems as if the Pack becomes just another one of the teams that perhaps will be fighting to be .500 by the end of the season. Perhaps be able to roughly split their games and sneak into the playoffs somehow at 9-7. But that's all for later. For now, the team has to find a way to win with Brett Hundley at quarterback against Detroit.

The Packers will need QB Brett Hundley to step up big time in order for the Packers to beat Detroit tonight.
(Photo: Steve Apps, State Journal Archives)

Here's hoping that a couple weeks of practice and coach McCarthy figuring out ways to actually help Hundley use his abilities might give the Pack a shot tonight. Going back a few years, OK, decades, the Lions are 25-1 at Lambeau Field. On the other hand, Detroit QB Matthew Stafford has thrown 15 touchdown passes at Lambeau, the most of any opposing quarterback, but is still only 1-5 overall on the Frozen Tundra.

Voice of the Packers Wayne Larrivee was just on radio giving some interesting stats about the Packers before and after Rodgers and it wasn't pretty. The Pack was 4-1 with Rodgers at quarterback. They scored something like 24+ points per game, while holding opponents to an average of about 22 points a game. With Hundley, they are 0-2 (technically 0-1 as Hundley has only started 1 game so far, coming in relief in the Minnesota game). The Pack has only averaged a little more than 13 points per game in those two losses while giving up almost 25.

Regardless of how the offense is doing, it's clear that the biggest factor in the Packers' season-sans-Rodgers is the defense. So far this season -- and how many other seasons now??? -- the defense has been in about the bottom quarter of the league statistically. The defense may got some new production out of rookies Montravius Adams and Vince Biegel, both of whom may seems some action this evening.

If the defense doesn't hold Stafford and some of his fine receivers in check tonight, and the offense sputters as it did against the Saints (despite a second straight huge running game courtesy of rookie Aaron Jones), this game could be over before it gets started. We certainly expect more out of Hundley than we've seen so far. But until he has a break out game, you have to look at which sideline the better quarterback is on. And tonight, that's on the Lions' side of the field.

The Prediction


That last paragraph above gives a good lead-in for our prediction tonight. And we hope we're wrong.

But we're calling this game Lions 31 - Packers 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, October 22, 2017

2017 NFL Week 7: Packers vs Saints aka Week 1 of Life After Rodgers

We're in generally unfamiliar territory this weekend, Packers fans, and we will likely be so for the rest of this season: no more Aaron Rodgers. The horror...the horror...

Now we get to see how the other half lives. Or perhaps more accurately, how the other 75 percent of the NFL lives without a top-notch quarterback.

As football fans of every variety know, the Green Bay Packers QB was injured early in last week's loss at Minnesota. A broken right collarbone to make a bookend to the left collarbone broken several years ago. Rodgers was able to come back at the end of that season to help the Pack in the playoffs. This season? It's his throwing arm, folks. He just had surgery this past week, is on injured reserve for the next 8 weeks and all medical personnel are saying he can't begin throwing again for at least 6 weeks, which would coincide with the earliest he could begin practicing with the team because of his IR status. The likelihood of his returning this season is slim. And it would not only depend upon how quickly he is able to recover and regain his throwing ability but where the Packers would stand at the time in the playoff hunt.
Packers QB Brett Hundley got thrown in the deep end
at Minnesota last weekend after the early injury to
Aaron Rodgers. 
Today, he gets his first start
against the Saints.

(Photo: Jim Matthews/USATODAY NETWORK-Wi)

While now-starting QB Brett Hundley has been in the Packers' system for 3 years, has good size, arm strength and athletic ability, this will be his first NFL start today. Can 1 week of practice get him in sync with his receivers? Perhaps it's the case, likely the case, that he will be more so with the back up receivers and tight ends because those are the players he has worked with most. They may become his security blanket today and for a few games to come until he gets timing down with the starters.

Having said that, more than a few sports pundits, including Voice of the Packers Wayne Larrivee, have noted that despite whatever ability Hundley may bring to the position, his success is perhaps even more dependent upon those he has blocking for him. As Packer fans know all too well, the offensive line has been a MASH unit all season long. Today, it appears as both tackles will at least start the game; whether they are able to finish is another thing. There are injuries at every position on the line and having a consistent presence, having continuity in front of him, will be key to Hundley's success this season.

So will a running game. Particularly today, as the weather forecast calls for rain during the game, complicating the pass route timing, etc. Not ideal for one's first NFL start. But it is what it is. Of course that running game needs blockers, as well...so we're back to the issue with health of the offensive line. The upcoming bye week certainly comes at a good time for that group.

The Saints defense isn't as strong as Minnesota's, so that will help some. Unfortunately 38-year-old Saints QB Drew Brees doesn't show any signs of slipping. The Saints offense is average a bit more than 29 points a game through the first 6 weeks of the season. Toss in the fact that he and the Saints have typically owned Packers Defensive Coordinator Dom Capers over the years. With injuries in the defensive backfield for the Pack, trying to contain Brees and his receivers is going to be a huge challenge.

The Prediction

Given all the conditions that are present going into the game -- the weather, a young quarterback's first NFL start, injuries on the offensive line and in the defensive backfield for the Packers, and a someday-Hall-of-Fame QB on the opposite side of the field and Saints' schemes on both sides of the ball to give the Packers problems -- this is going to be a difficult game for the Pack, despite it being played at Lambeau Field. The oddsmakers have determined that the Saints are favored by 3.5 points at the time of this writing.

While we hope that the Packers rise to the occasion across the board, and we hope that Hundley rises to near Rodgers' level performance, we think we will see growing pains this weekend. Give him and the team the bye week and another week to come together and things may be back to close to normal...or as close as they can be until Rodgers is able to return, whether this season or next.

We're calling this one Saints 31 - Packers 17.

Go Pack Go!!! Make us wrong today!

Sunday, October 15, 2017

2017 NFL Week 6: Packers vs. Vikings

The Green Bay Packers dealt the Dallas Cowboys another patented, last-second dagger loss last weekend in Big D. Say it with me (in your best Seinfeld voice): "That's a shame." The heroics of that game have been well documented throughout this last week, so we won't go into them again here. Bottom line is that the Packers are 4-1 and leading the NFC North going into today's game vs. the ViQueens.
Packers QB extraordinaire, Aaron Rodgers, scrambles for a 1st down in last week's winning drive against Dallas.
(Photo: Jim Matthews/USATODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

In today's game, the Pack will face the exact opposite of the situation they had to deal with in Dallas. Where Dallas had a potentially explosive offense (if not contained) and a mediocre defense, Minnesota has perhaps one of the best defenses the Packers have faced so far, but with an offense missing its starting quarterback, top wide receiver and running back. Given that the Packers will be without probably half of its usual starters in the secondary, this scenario is certainly a help.

Safety Morgan Burnett has been ruled out, as have Davon House and Kevin King. There are other issues and missing pieces from the defense, as well; adjustments will need to be made, obviously. Offensively, running back Ty Montgomery looks as if he might get some plays today wearing a flack jacket to protect his broken ribs. But we should expect, after his breakout game last week, that rookie running back Aaron Jones should still get most of the carries out of the backfield. While Jordy Nelson migth be slowed by whatever took him out of the game late down the stretch last week, the emergence of Davante Adams as Rodgers' go-to guy in clutch situations means no drop off. Couple that with the terrific tight end trio of Martellus Bennett, Lance Kendricks and Richard Rodgers and it's a defensive coordinator's worst nightmare. Reports just coming in that for the first time this season, the Pack's starting offensive tackles are good to go: Bryan Bulaga and David Bakhtiari finally get a chance to start in the same game! That's a huge plus.

The Prediction

The offensive firepower of the Packers should once again carry the day. A tough Minnesota defense may contain things for a while, but their offense just doesn't have the ability to keep up with what the Pack will do. The Packers are favored by 3 points at the time of this writing.

We're calling this one Packers 27 - ViQueens 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, October 08, 2017

2017 NFL Week 5: Packers vs. Cowboys

It's been 10 days or so since we last saw our beloved Green Bay Packers take to the field. As you'll recall, they beat Da Bearz at Lambeau on a Thursday night "Rush" uniform game...still hate that whole "Rush" uniform concept. And, of course, we're not fond of Da Bearz, either.

So coming out of the first quarter of the season the Packers are 3-1. If you look back to our season prediction for the Pack, that's right where we had them: 3-1. So there's that.

But what about today? What about Jerry's Kids, the 'boys? How are the Packers going to handle things in Dallas later this afternoon?

The Packers will need a big day from Jordy Nelson and help from
Davante Adams and others for the team to win in Dallas today.
(Photo: Jim Matthews/USATODAY NETWORK-Wi)

The Cowboys are favored by 2 points, staked to a point less than the usual home field advantage. They have a big and aggressive defensive line which could present problems for the Pack, particularly if the team is again without its two starting tackles. Both Bryan Bulaga and David Bakhtiari are listed as questionable today; we may seem them some, little or not at all. 

WR Davante Adams has -- believe it or not -- cleared the NFL concussion protocol following that brutal hit in the Chicago game and may be able to play today. The same can't be said for RB Ty Montgomery. Broken ribs don't seem to recover quite as quickly as a concussion...although the comparative long-term effects of the latter...? Let's not go there today. So it will be the three rookie running backs who will be charged with getting something, anything, done on the ground to keep the 'boys from teeing off on QB Aaron Rodgers, especially behind what may still be a makeshift offensive line. Still, if the Packers are able to develop a bit of a running game, the line is able to protect, Rodgers could have a big day against the Dallas secondary. Lots of "ifs" there.

Defensively, the Packers may get Mike Daniels back today in some capacity. Even a little of Daniels is better than a lot of some other players so we'll take whatever he is able to give, particularly in the way of helping slow down Dallas RB Ezekiel Elliot. It will also be interesting to see if DB Damarious Randall sees much playing time today after his hissy fit during Da Bearz game which resulted in him spending a chunk of the game in the locker room after being sent off by Packers coaches. Let's hope he uses this incident as positive motivation.

The Prediction

On to the reason you're here: the prediction for today's game. We're seeing this as a being a close game through the first half, perhaps well into the third quarter. But we think the Packers have the tools to pull away at some point.

We're calling it Packers 30 - Cowboys 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

Thursday, September 28, 2017

2017 NFL Week 4: Packers vs. Bears Preview and Prediction

The Green Bay Packers overcame an extremely sluggish and sloppy first half to escape last Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals with an overtime victory on field goal by Mason Crosby set up by an amazing 73-yard catch and run by Geronimo Allison.

The Packers are, at this early stage of the season, not what they'd like to be or probably expected to be. After coming through training camp and pre-season relatively healthy, they have been beset with injuries galore from game one on. None are more concerning than those affecting the offensive line, i.e., the protectors of QB Aaron Rodgers. It's still not clear whether even one of the starting tackles will actually be able to play even some of tonight's game. And the primary back-up at tackle -- Kyle Murphy -- also went on Injured Reserve after the game. The options are thinning. Not a way you want to go into a game against what is a not-bad defensive front on the part of tonight's opponent, Da Bearz.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers will have have another
of his standout games against Chicago tonight.
(Photo: Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

The Prediction

Since this is a short week of preparation for the Packers, we'll make this preview short, as well. Both teams are coming off unseasonably hot games in their home stadiums, in wich they both won in overtime. Chicago has two young running backs who are trying to make names for themselves and doing a good job of it so far. The Packers have, well, Aaron Rodgers and a host of exceptional receiving talent. Defenses each have their strengths. Given that the Packers playing at home, and with their offense -- beat up as the line is -- the oddsmakers are setting the spread at 7 points in favor of the Pack.

The Pack will likely have to use their tight ends more to assist in protection than in the receiving game. If running back Ty Montgomery can get going, or one of the Pack's other young running backs can get enough carries and yards to help keep Da Bearz from teeing off on Rodgers every play, the Pack could have a bit of an easier time at it.

But we think it's going to be a close game unless the Pack can somehow jump out to an early lead...which has not really been its M.O. this season or in recent years for that matter.

We're calling it Packers 24 - Bears 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, September 24, 2017

2017 NFL Week 3: Packers vs. Bengals

This is really pushing it, Packer fans. About 30 minutes before kickoff as I write this. Obligations this weekend precluded any earlier posting. So..apologies.

The Packers lost in disheartening fashion in Atlanta last weekend. After a defensive tour de force at home agains the Seahawks many fans saw the "D" revert to its NFC Championship game form. In short, oy.

Anyway, it's likely that today's game is just what the doctor ordered: the Cincinnati Bengals. They haven't scored a touchdown in two games, both at home. You know they have to break through at some point. You just hope it doesn't start in any major way today.

Our Prediction

The Packers are favored by 9 points. That should be the case. Plus more. Granted, the Packers are already banged up going into just the third week of the season. And a record may be set for the hottest game ever played at Lambeau Field. Yes, really. Not coldest. Hottest. So that will put extra stress on players. You never know who might cramp up at an inopportune time in the game, or who might not even be able to return. Hydration will be key today. As will the Packers offense playing to the level they are capable of, and the defense reprising their opening game effort.

We're calling this one Packers 31 - Bengals 9.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, September 17, 2017

2017 NFL Week 2: Packers vs. Falcons

The Green Bay Packers took care of business at home in the season opener, defeating the Seattle Seahawks 17-9. It was a defensive tour de force, led by Mike Daniels. If the defense plays that way every week...watch out, NFL!
Packers QB Aaron Rodgers may have to be on the move today vs. the Falcons depending upon the health of his O-line.
Our Prediction
Our take on today's game in Atlanta is that the Pack's defense will certainly better its performance in last season's NFC Championship game. Wouldn't take much.

Still, even combined with the Packers' offensive weapons -- which should enable the team to keep pace with the Dirty Birds -- there are a few key questions.

Perhaps the key one today is the health of the Pack's offensive tackles. Both Bryan Bulaga and David Bahktiari have issues and one or both may be limited if not held out today. Backup tackle Kyle Murphy held up well overall against one of the league's better defenses in last week's game. But...if Bulaga has to move to left tackle or can't go at all...? Not a great way to go up against the defending NFC Champs on their home turf. Oh, and don't forget, this is the grand opening of the new Atlanta Mercedes Stadium...or whatever it's called. The Falcons will be jacked and it's a wonder the spread isn't more than the 3 points given for regular home field advantage.

If it sounds as if we're picking against the Packers, it does have the feel of a pick 'em type scenario. Many if not most pundits are picking the Falcons, typically with from 3-10 to point margins of victory. But don't forget that Atlanta nearly lost to Da Bearz in Chicago last weekend, only saved from defeat by Chicago's ineptitude to score a TD with four plays and goal and go in the closing minute of the game.

Despite the questions on the offensive line, the Packers defense is going to give Atlanta as much as they can handle, perhaps even generating a key turnover that will be the difference in the game. The Pack's offense will take care of business and get off to a faster start than vs. the Seahawks.

We're calling this one Packers 27 - Falcons 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

Sunday, September 10, 2017

2017 NFL Week 1: Packers vs. Seahawks

Today is the day we've been waiting for since the season-and-Super Bowl-run-ending loss in Atlanta, Packers fans...it's the start of a new season and the chance to bring the Lombardi Trophy back home to Lambeau Field where it rightfully belongs.

The NFL schedule-makers have set the Packers quite a test in their first two games, at home against the Seattle Seahawks and on the road versus the Atlanta Falcons...two of the teams, along with the Pack and perhaps another team or two that figure to be in the mix for the NFC Conference Championship. More about today's game in a moment. But first, here's a bit of an addendum to yesterday's Season Prediction post. Here is the overall strength of schedule for each NFL team (based on the final 2016 records of a team's 2017 opponents):
Looking at this strength of schedule, the entire NFC North seems to have one of the lighter schedules in terms of strength of opponent. Well...c'mon. This is the NFL and on any given Sunday, etc. Unless, of course...Cleveland...or Buffalo...or the Jets.

But back to the Pack and the Seahawks today. What do we know? Or at least think we know?

Packers favored by 3

At the time of this writing, the Packers get the benefit of home field advantage in what is otherwise being seen as a toss-up game by pundits and oddsmakers. The Pack has typically taken care of business, including the Seahawks, at Lambeau Field. Of course, over the last few seasons the Pack has also gotten off to slow season starts. This season, the team can't afford that. With the Seahawks and Falcons back to back to start the season, the Packers have to at least split those two games if not outright win both, as we'd all prefer, right? Right!

We have to believe that the Packers offense will put up points, particularly with the addition of Martellus Bennett and Lance Kendricks to the tight end corps, a focused Ty Montgomery in the backfield (who is backed up by all three of the Pack's rookie draft pick runners, just in case), and the best quarterback and wide receiver group in the league. The offensive line is a bit of a question mark in terms of depth. With right tackle Bryan Bulaga ruled out for today's game, a tight end or running back might need to be dedicated to help out that side of the field.

On the defensive side of the ball, that's the big unknown. Apparently Packers management wasn't satisfied with what they had following the preseason and picked up a couple castoffs from other teams to help beef up that side of the ball. Those players seem as if they will be an upgrade, but how much they'll contribute today after only a day or two on the practice field...? Also, it will be interesting to see how well the Pack's upgraded -- but still young -- defensive backfield holds up. The Pack's linebacker corps, assisted by defensive backs Morgan Burnett and Josh Jones playing in the middle sometimes, definitely needs to up its game from last season.

Game Prediction

Overall, expectations are high. What else is new? Anything can happen in a Game 1 situation, particularly with two heavyweights trying to find and establish their identities for the season. The Packers defense has had Seahawk QB Russell Wilson's number for the last few games. That trend needs to continue today. Oh, and for a reality check keep in mind that the outcome of this first game of the season may very well determine home field advantage come playoff time. Yeah...really.

We're calling this game Packers 27 - Seahawks 24.

We hope it's not a down-to-the-wire type of game. But it could be tight and back and forth for most of the game given the calibre of these two teams. Seems as if some strange plays also happen in these duels and just one of those today could be the difference.

But it's a beautiful day in Green Bay and the Pack is ready to roll. Go Pack Go!!!

Saturday, September 09, 2017

Packers 2017-18 Season Prediction

Well, Packers fans...we've avoided making any posts during summer training camp and preseason. We've been slacking, no doubt. Sorry about that. But we'll try to do better as we are now at the start of the regular season.

One of the things we've done since the beginning of this blog -- quite a while now -- is to make a season prediction as to overall record. Lots of places give game-by-game predictions for the season and that's certainly a worthwhile pursuit. We do game-by-game predictions, too, but do them week by week as the season goes along; just too many factors that can affect things.

What we do at the outset though is use a game itself as a model. In short, we break up the season into quarters and give predictions for each quarter of the season. OK, yes, because of the bye week there are really 17 weeks to the season not 16...so how can we do quarters??? Hey, it makes sense to us and since this is our blog, well, that's all that matters. So here go...


First Quarter of Season - Weeks 1-4 (Sept. 10-28)

The Packers start off with the Seahawks at Lambeau Field, followed by a game at Atlanta, then at home versus the Bengals and Da Bearz. That's two tough games against likely NFC Conference contenders right off the bat. With three out of these first four games at home, the Pack's traditionally slow season starts might be mitigated. We see them taking three out of these first four games. Overall record: 3-1.


Second Quarter of Season - Weeks 5-8 (Oct. 6-29)

The Packers begin this part of the season at Dallas, then another away game at Minnesota before returning home to take on the Saints. Week 8 of the season is the Pack's bye week and they will no doubt rejoice in the week off after a very challenging first half to the season. We see the Pack going 2-1 in this stretch. Overall record: 5-2.


Third Quarter of Season - Weeks 9-12 (Nov. 6-26)

The schedule has a bit more symmetry to it in this stretch, with home-away-home-away: the Lions, at Chicago, home against the Ravens and then at Pittsburgh. We'd like to see this stretch go 3-1 but...OK, let's say it's 3-1. Overall record: 8-3.


Fourth Quarter of Season - Weeks 13-17 (Dec. 3-31)

In this final non-quarter-like quarter of the season (five games not four), the Pack has two home games and three away. They start at home against the Buccaneers, then are away at Cleveland and Carolina, home against the ViQueens, and finish the season on New Year's Eve day at Detroit. This has the feel of a 3-2 stretch, although it goes without saying (but we're saying it) that a lot here depends upon the health not only of the Packers but their opponents. Overall record: 11-5.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is set to take the team back to the Super Bowl.
(Photo: Jim Matthews / USA TODAY NETWORK-Wi, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
Aaron Rodgers said this week that the way he looks at the season you win all your home goes and then split on the road. In other words, 12-4. He thought that would put the team right there in the mix. We'd feel more comfortable with that as well.

Given the offensive weapons the Packers have this season, they shouldn't have any problem scoring. The question mark, as it has been for seemingly too many seasons, is the defense. The Pack has concentrated several consecutive drafts on beefing up that side of the ball. And just this week, GM Ted Thompson added some free agents to the mix.

We have to agree with Rodgers that this is a good, very good, Packers team in terms of talent. But all the pieces still have to come together. Given that they got to the NFC Championship game last season with a glued-together defense, even an incrementally better defense could get them back to the Super Bowl.

This might be the thinking of a lot of pundits who have selected the Pack to be one of the favorites to go to the Super Bowl this season. We agree.

Please check back tomorrow (game day) to see our Packers vs. Seahawks game prediction.

Go Pack Go!!!

Thursday, April 20, 2017

We're Baaaaaaack! And We Bring You...the Packers 2017 Schedule

We've had a long offseason, Packers fans. In fact, as you may have noticed, we haven't posted since the NFC Championship Game. Yes, it was...not good. But that was then. This is now. And by this, we mean looking forward to the upcoming 2017 season.

So it is with great pleasure that we bring you the official 2017 Packers schedule (with kudos to ThePackerPage for the graphic).
What do you think? We'll be back with some thoughts on this schedule once we have a chance to digest it a bit.

Sunday, January 22, 2017

NFL NFC Championship: Packers vs. Falcons preview and prediction

After the epic win in Dallas in the NFC Divisional Playoff, and for the second time in three years, the Green Bay Packers are in the NFC Championship Game. As Packers fans, we can only hope and pray that this game turns out better than the last (the horror...the horr0r...).

We awoke to good news for starters: according to the NFL Network, wide receivers Jordy Nelson, Davante Adams and Geronimo Allison are all expected to play today. This was very much in question over the last few days as all have been nursing injuries, none more so than Nelson who has two broken ribs. The thinking might be (OK, this is my thinking) that even if Nelson can only be on the field part of the time, and not even be thrown to (to try to protect those ribs), he will have to be covered; that takes one defender away from another receiver who could perhaps otherwise receive double coverage. In other words, Nelson as decoy. The Pack have three additional receivers active today (not including Ty Montgomery), which is one more than typical...for insurance purposes, it would seem.
The Packers need to get pumped and play 60 minutes of outstanding football -- on both sides of the ball -- to win today.
Photo by Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

It is interesting to note, however, that the Packers did elevate one of their practice squad receivers yesterday to the 53-man roster: Max McCaffrey. (If that name sounds familiar it is because he is the son of former Pro Bowl receiver Ed McCaffrey and the older brother of Christian McCaffrey, whom we know is currently projected as a first-round pick in this year's NFL draft.) The Pack signed him to the practice squad in December after he was released by the Raiders. He was undrafted out of Duke and has yet to play in an NFL game. To make room for McCaffrey, the Packers put center JC Tretter on the injured reserve list.

The Packers, fortunately, have great depth at receiver and that depth will be needed today. Of course, the Pack also has TE Jared Cook who has been nothing short of amazing since returning from injury earlier in the season. Recall that he did not play in the earlier loss to the Falcons, nor did Montgomery. It's all hands on deck.

Atlanta is averaging over 35 points per game at home. The Falcons earlier season win against the Pack was by one point, 33-32. So stop the presses! There will be points scored today. The record for points for a NFL championship game is 73. We believe it will be more than that today.

Neither of these two teams boasts outstanding defenses. Both are near the bottom of the standings. Atlanta is actually 32nd in red zone defense. So the more often the Packers can get into the red zone, the better. Pass protection for both teams is very good. Atlanta is the only team in the league that has had all five starters on the offensive line start every game this season. Amazing. The Packers O-line give Rodgers time to work outside of the pocket and find receivers downfield. So it's going to be an offensive battle and the defense that can generate a turnover or two, or make a stop, is likely the team that will come out on top. It may very well come down to "whoever has the ball last wins," just like last weekend versus the Cowboys. So get your heart medication ready again, Packer fans.

It's getting close to about 2 hours to game time and we could go on and on. But we won't. Let's get to the prediction.

The Prediction
You've already read here and elsewhere that the expectation is for a high-scoring game. The Falcons are favored by 5 points, which seems a bit off, despite Atlanta coming into this game arguably as hot as the Packers. It is the final game in the George Dome so that might generate some additional energy for a while for the Dirty Birds. But if the Packers can get out early as they did last weekend, and the defense can get a turnover or two and make some key stops -- don't let that two-headed running attack of the Falcons get going, for example -- Rodgers and company should come out on top. Ty Montgomery should have a big day...and not just because it's his 24th birthday. Mike McCarthy will have a game plan in place to take advantage of the defense's weaknesses. Dom Capers will be as creative as he can be given the walking MASH unit that is the Packers' secondary. And if it comes down to the leg of kicker Mason Crosby, say it with me, "It's good!". (By the way, there's a great story about Crosby by Ryan Wood of the USA-Today Network-Wisconsin. Really gives you great insight into the mind of a kicker...especially this kicker.)

The Pack will be packing for Houston after this game's over. We're calling this one Packers 41 - Falcons 38.

Go Pack Go!!!