2024 NFL Week 14: Packers vs. Lions Preview & Prediction

Happy football Thursday once again, Packer fans! Yes, a bit of an oddity to be doing back-to-back Thursday game previews and predictions (last time was 2015). But here we are. Last week was the Thanksgiving evening game, of course, at Lambeau Field vs. the Miami Dolphins. Seems so long ago now, doesn't it? It was a great way to cap off our Turkey Day (plus whomping the Sunday before our heretofore kryptonite by the largest margin ever in the long-standing series against the Niners: 28 points! Holy California roll, Batman!) The post-game six-legged turducken feast, prepared by none other than Packers and NFL Hall of Famer, LeRoy Butler, was presented to QB Jordan Love, RB Josh Jacobs, and LB Isaiah McDuffie. Love received 2 of the legs as Butler reminded the viewing audience that Love was inexplicably stiffed on that front after last year's win at Detroit. It was a beautiful moment, indeed.

Anyway, and not coincidentally, the Packers find themselves back in Detroit tonight to play the Lions at Ford Field. Which leads us to our preview. Let's begin ...

The 2024 Packers will need to replicate the power and passion of the 1964 Green Bay team, epitomized by FB Jim Taylor (airborne!) and QB Bart Starr shown here against the Lions, in order to bring a win over the Lions back to Green Bay tonight.

(Photo via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel archive)

The Preview

In terms of a broad overview, the 9-3 Packers are ascending, the 11-1 Lions — despite the record — seem to be descending a bit. That's a qualified "descending", by the way, in case anyone misunderstands. As the saying goes, sometimes it's not who you play, it's when you play them. For the Packers, they are catching the Lions at the best possible time from their perspective: Detroit is banged up and missing starters, particularly on defense. That's the "descending" part right now. 

Detroit's offense — the highest scoring offense in the league — is mostly in tact ... and must be accounted for, particularly their running backs and receivers. If the Packers defense allow Detroit's running game to take charge, it will likely be a long night. QB Jared Goff is having another great season, and he has great receivers to throw to. When given protection, he is one of the best pocket-passers in the league today. But rattle him and get him out of the pocket, advantage Packers ... that has to be part of the Pack's defensive objectives for this game. Summing up: contain Detroit's running game, cover the receivers (especially over the middle, a-hem), and get pressure on Goff.

The Packers come in probably as healthy as they have been all season, albeit with CB Jaire Alexander (knee), WR Romeo Doubs (concussion), LB Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring), and CB Corey Ballentine (knee) all ruled out for tonight's game. The Packers have seemingly been playing more games without Alexander this season than with him, so the defense has been able to adapt. Better with him than without him, but availability is what it is. And no doubt head coach Matt LaFleur would prefer to be able to game plan with Doubs available in the passing game, but ... not. Thankfully, the Pack's corps of wide receivers is not only deep but good.

The key for the Pack's offense, as it has been increasingly as the season has progressed, is the success of the running game, particularly having RB Josh Jacobs dominate. If he's able to do what he's done over several weeks — say, carrying the ball 20-25 times and rushing for 100 yards or more — that will go a long way to seeing the Pack come away on top tonight. QB Jordan Love will also need time to find his receivers or make quick decisions and take off with the ball if pressured; better the latter than trying to force a throw and generate a turnover. Having no turnovers tonight, and getting a takeaway or two by the defense or special teams, can help secure the win.

The question for the Packers, as it has been most of the season, is what defense will show up tonight. The D has been playing really well, of late, and that trend has to continue tonight. Now, it's well known that Detroit is a physical team. The Packers will need to match that physicality on both sides of the ball. Let Detroit get rolling and it's then probably going to be a shootout type game ... perhaps even one of those last possession type games.

The Prediction

The Lions are 3-1/2 point favorites at the time of this writing with the over-under currently sitting at 51-1/2 points; so the oddsmakers are looking for a lot of offense tonight. The Packers lost the first outing at Lambeau Field, but they are now a more complete team than they were then. The game is indoors, so weather is not a factor. The Lions are wounded, the Packers relatively healthy. The Packers need this win to stay in the hunt for the NFC North title and are looking for revenge for that earlier loss.

It's not who you play, it's when you play them. Yup.

We're calling this game Packers 34 - Lions 30.

Go Pack Go!!!

2024 NFL Week 13: Packers vs. Dolphins Thanksgiving Day Preview & Prediction

Happy Thanksgiving, Packer fans! Yes, we have much to be thankful for this day. And always. For starters, we have our breath. That's huge, right? After that, family, friends, being fans (and perhaps being owner-shareholders) of the most legendary franchise in the NFL: our Green Bay Packers. Amen.

Looking back to just a few days ago, we can also be thankful that the Pack finally did to the 49ers what the Niners have typically done to the Packers: beat them. And they did so in style, winning 38-10, with the largest margin of victory — 28 points! — in the long history of the match-up. Yay!

The Pack rode RB Josh Jacobs and his three TDs to the victory ... which may have even been put away before halftime had WR Christian Watson not dropped a 50+-yard surefire TD pass from QB Jordan Love. Watson! Frustrating. He can make some extraordinary catches, flashing inherent talent as he did the week prior against Da Bearz. And then he has these inexcusable drops. Still, among the remarkable receivers on this Packers squad, he remains really the only one that can stretch the field as quickly as he does. So have to keep going to him. No surprise there. Anyway ...

Packers QB Jordan Love launches a long ball in the game last Sunday vs. the 49ers. Can we expect a few more long balls tonight vs. the Dolphins? Stay tuned ...

(Photo via the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

The Preview

As a result of the win this past Sunday, the Packers are now 8-3 going into this evening's Turkey Day game vs. the 5-6 Miami Dolphins at a reasonably cold (by Wisconsin standards ... or extremely cold by Miami standards) Lambeau Field. Which, in most divisions in the NFL would put the Pack in first place. But this season, the Pack still finds themselves behind the Lions and the ViQueens in the NFC North. Just have to keep on winning and the rest will take care of itself, i.e., playoff seeding. More on that as the season moves along to its final six games.

As for tonight's game, the temperature will be about 26 degrees at kickoff. Miami is 0-12, including playoffs, when the temperature is below 40 degrees. That should obviously play in the Packers favor. But as a few pundits have pointed out, that would typically be the case ... except for the fact that the Dolphins have a hot young QB by the name of Tua Tagovailoa. After yet again returning following what seems like his 100th concussion, Miami has gone 3-2, winning their last three games. On Sunday vs. the Patriots, Tua was 29 for 40 for 317 yards including four touchdowns; he was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance.

Tua has averaged between 28 and 40 pass attempts in each of his games back. Yeah, he wants to throw the ball. A lot. Will the cold affect his passing? Have to wait to see. Believe we saw somewhere that his hand size is actually pretty close to that of Aaron Rodgers which, if the case, means he should not have a problem hanging on to the ball. Although, as most cold-weather folks know, below-freezing cold can make the ol' pigskin slick. And if one is not used to that there can be issues both throwing and hanging on to the ball.

Of course, another reason he likes to throw a lot is that he has great targets to throw to: Odell Beckham Jr., Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and Malik Washington. Miami is averaging 29 points per game with Tua at QB; the Packers are averaging 26.2 points this season.

Both teams will be missing a few key pieces. For the Dolphins, they will be without CB Kendall Fuller and LB Anthony Walker Jr. The Packers, unfortunately, will be without CB Jaire Alexander (once again), LB Edgerrin Cooper and WR Romeo Doubs. The Packers seem to know how to cover these gaps.

This will be an interesting game to see how the Packers attack the Miami defense and how the Green Bay defense defends against a dangerous passing QB. Can the Pack generate a consistent pass rush? (Tua doesn't run often, so getting to him in the pocket will be key to a win.) Can the defense cover some very good receivers on what projects to be a slick field at times? Can they get some takeaways on this cold evening? With a so-so rushing attack, can Miami do enough to keep the Packers defense guessing? Many questions, with the answers to play out soon.

The Prediction

This is a game that should go the Packers way: at home, on a cold evening, with most of the team's weapons on hand and both the offense and defense seemingly starting to click and play complementary football. But as we have seen all season long — and not just watching the Packers — there really are very few gimmee type games in the NFL this season.

The Packers are favored by 3-1/2 points at the time of this writing, with the over-under set at 47-1/2. Most pundits are seen the game as a close one and going with the "under".

We see the Packers winning this one. They dominated a beat-up San Francisco team four days ago. While not exactly facing the same swarm of injuries as the Niners, we are hoping the conditions tonight play out in the Packers favor and against Miami as has historically been the case.

We're calling it Packers 31 - Dolphins 20.

GO PACK GO!!!

Gobble gobble ....

2024 NFL Week 12: Packers vs 49ers Preview & Prediction

Happy Football Sunday, Packer fans! Today, we have the Pack playing their West Coast kryptonite team, the San Francisco (more accurately, Santa Clarita) 49ers. At least this game is in Lambeau Field. Finally. More about this game in a second.

But we do have to first briefly take a look back at the win vs. Da Bearz in Chicago last weekend. Yowzers. That certainly was not the game we, most others, or apparently the Packers coaching staff saw coming. Shouldn't have been as close as a 20-19 last-second blocked field goal. In fact, in our preview for that game we boldly proclaimed that it would not come down to a field goal to decide the game. It did. Eeesh. But at least the Packers were on the right side of that block.

The Pack once again left points on the field in the red zone, a real nemesis for the offense in many games so far this season. That has to change. And the defense certainly was not prepared for Bearz rookie QB Caleb Williams to do as much running as he did. Not really a great game for the D, or for the adjustments during the game by the defensive coordinator for that matter.

But a win is a win no matter how ugly it may seem. A 7-3 record at this point ... not all bad. And today we take on the NFC West's last place 5-5 49ers. Let's take a look at that, shall we?

The Packers need to see an uptick in production from WR Dontayvion Wicks who so far hasn't lived up to expectations for this season. Today would be a good day for him to start clicking.

(Photo by Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Preview

Several pluses for the Packers going into this game: Jordan Love is looking healthy, the run game spearheaded by Josh Jacobs is game-changing, the "no-number-one" wide receiving corps is arguably the deepest in the NFL where any wideout or tight end (kudos to Tucker Kraft) can make a play at any time, the defense may bend but hasn't really broken all that often ... AND ... the Niners starting QB Brock Purdy and DE Nick Bosa have been ruled out for this game due to injuries. That's huge.

A downside for the Packers is that, yet again, CB Jaire Alexander is out for the game, as is LB Edgerrin Cooper. Both put a dent in the defense but the absence of Alexander is certainly the bigger hit and continues to be a long-term concern.

Of course, San Fran still has plenty of weapons to rely upon. They are the defending NFC champion, of course. But they have been off their game throughout the season. Still, they have to this point, despite their record, put up the same exact number of points as have the Packers: 250. But they have given up 9 points more overall to opposing teams than have the Packers. 

Will any of that matter today? Well, if the Packers past history with backup quarterbacks plays out once again today, the Niners could stick around. Or even win when everything says they shouldn't. And if the Packers defense lets RB Christian McCaffrey get rolling in and out of the backfield, it could be a long day. Even without Bosa causing havoc for the Pack's offense, head coach Matt LaFleur's game plan must also account for LB Fred Warner who can become a one-man wrecking crew if left unchecked.

And let's not forget: SF head coach Kyle Shanahan's record vs. Matt LaFleur is 4-2 (including going 3-0 in the playoffs) if memory serves. Trivia for you: since 2001, long before either coach was at the helm of their respective teams, the Packers haven’t defeated San Francisco in the postseason, going 0-5 over that time. Crikey.

Time to start writing a new story. Yes, it's not the playoffs. But it is a regular season home game against the team that has ended several promising seasons for the Packers before the Super Bowl.

It would be a great time for Love to have his first interception-free game of the season, for receivers to not have untimely drops, for Jacobs to continue tearing up defenses, for the defense to resume its takeaways propensity, and Packers field goals to be made without exception. Let us pray ... 

Prediction

The Packers are set as 5-point favorites as of the time of this writing. And seemingly most pundits are predicting the Pack to win. Both of those things make me nervous. Toss in facing a backup QB ... what lines up on paper isn't always what takes place on the field.

Still, this is a game the Packers should win given everything, setting up an at-home Thanksgiving eve game vs. the Dolphins. Imagine being 9-3 after that game! But that record starts today by going 8-3.

We're calling it Packers 27 - 49ers 23.

Go Pack Go!!!

2023 Season Divisional Round Playoff Game: Packers vs. 49ers Preview & Prediction

While all the attention is rightly on Saturday evening's NFC Divisional Playoff game between the Green Bay Packers and the San Francisco 49ers, we have to take a moment to acknowledge what is — factually — the biggest upset in NFL history: the 7th seed Packers beating the 2nd seed Dallas Cowboys last Sunday. Not just beating the 'boys, but smokin' them. 27-0 in the 1st half. A final score of 48-32 with Dallas' final two scores coming in garbage time. Never before had a 7th seed won a playoff game. Well done Jordan Love, Aaron Jones, Matt LaFleur, Joe Barry (?) and everyone in the Packers organization. Wow. Just wow.

Now, let's get to the game in Santa Clara, shall we?

If Packers QB Jordan Love continues his lights-out performance

Saturday evening, the Packers have a chance to pull off another

upset win and find themselves in the NFC Championship game.

(Photo via the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

The Preview

As it turns out, with this game, the Packers and Niners will now have faced each other 10 times in the playoffs, more than any other pair of teams in the NFL. Amazing. Of the prior 9, San Fran has a 5-4 edge, with the Packers having lost four straight. Meh. Time to change the script, right, Packers fans?

There is admittedly a degree of difference in the overall team talent level at present between these two teams. Yet, all the young Packers don't seem to care about that. If they did, they would have likely lost in Dallas last weekend. All this Green Bay team knows how to do at this point is to play hard and to play for each other. It doesn't matter who gets the ball, who has to block, who has to tackle or cover. And head coach Matt LaFleur's wide-open play-calling has launched a first-year starting quarterback (i.e., Jordan Love) into the stratosphere of quarterbacking, and has solidified his status as "The Guy" not just this year but going forward. And not just going forward but, to the horror of Bears' fans and others, perhaps for the next decade or more. (On a related note, and particularly for my great friend Billy Da Bears Fan, Jordan Love has thrown for more than 4,000 yards in his first year as the starter; in the entire history of the Chicago Bears they have never had a single QB throw for more than 4,000 yards. Just in case you want to know.)

The Niners are solid on offense and defense, hence their number 1 seed and the reason they are currently favored to win by a wide margin. And, if the Packers do not match San Fran's physicality, they won't be in the game. The game will ultimately be determined, as has so much of the Pack's season, by the defense. If they show up — as they have for the last month or so — they can stay in the game. If they can create a turnover or two, they can help win the game. That's no throw-away comment: when the Niners have no turnovers, they were 8-0 this season; when they had one or more turnovers, they were 4-5 this season. If the Packers want to increase their chances for a win, they need to get to QB Brock Purdy and help create a turnover or two. Do that, and the odds of a win go up; don't get near him and ... well, it makes things more difficult.

The Niners defense also presents its challenges, as all football fans know. The O-line will really need one of its best games of the season to protect Jordan Love as well as to make an opening now and then for RB Aaron Jones. As all Packers fans know, the return of Jones and his 100+ yards rushing per game over the last three games has been a key to the Pack's win streak. Getting 100 yards rushing in this game will be a challenge. But if Jones can get 100+ yards combed rushing and receiving, that would be a significant boost to the Pack's chances.

Which Packers receiver will get 100+ yards receiving? Who knows. Over the span of the past three games, three different receivers have accomplished that feat. The Packers have a lot of weapons for the Niners to worry about. If the play-calling and scheming are in sync, the Pack can keep San Francisco if not exactly on their heels at least giving them a pause now and then ... which might be just enough.

Now, another factor to consider in this game is the weather. Yes, yes, we're not talking cold and snow; the game is in the Bay area (as the San Fran locals say) not the Green Bay area. That means, this time of year, rain. There is an 80 percent chance of rain throughout the day and into the evening, although it seems from the various forecasts that the heaviest rain will take place Friday evening and Saturday morning. Then, it's hit and miss. But at least one local forecaster is advising those attending the game to bring some rain gear, just in case. Winds of 10 to 15 mph at game time are expected, but again, a bit of a moving target forecast-wise. Not horrible winds if that's indeed the case, at least in dry conditions.

As former Carolina Panthers (and Wisconsin Badgers) punter, Brad Nortman, said on his radio show Friday, these wet conditions actually will act as a bit of an equalizer for the Packers. It tends, in his experience, to help the defense as offensive skill players — running backs, returners and receivers — need to think a bit more about whether or not they can make a particular cut, for example. The QB needs to think about whether he can make a certain throw (btw, QB trivia: Jordan Love's hands are larger than Brock Purdy's making for a better grip on the ball). And place kickers need to be sure of their plant when making kick attempts. The argument could be made that the Packers are probably more used to playing in adverse weather conditions than are the Niners. Who knows? All we do know is that the wet field, rain and wind conditions will likely play a role in the game. To which team's advantage, and to what degree, we will have to wait to see.

We also can't forget the referees in this game, especially given how poorly the NFL refs performed overall this season in getting calls right...which includes not making calls when none were needed. Unfortunately, the crew referring this game will be that of referee Alex Kemp, whose regular-season crew led the NFL with an average of 15.3 flags per game. And guess what? Both the Pack and Niners finished in the top third of the NFL for most flags this season. What are the odds that some bad and game-changing calls will be made? Oy. But both teams will have to play with this crew calling the shots. Let us pray.

The Prediction

Depending upon who you are looking at, the Niners are favored by 9-1/2 to 10 points over the Pack at the time of this posting. The Packers are used to being the underdog most of this season, and certainly in the playoffs. In other words, we've got 'em just where we want them.

There are so many story lines at play in this game, as there were against the Cowboys. The weather and the referees are outside factors that will affect both teams in various ways. If the Packers play at the same level they have over the last month-plus, they can stay in the game and win. Against any team. If they don't get off to a fast start and get beat physically, they will have a hard time pulling out the win.

We are of the view (gold 'n' green-colored, of course) that the Packers will keep things rolling. San Fran has been sitting and didn't look exceptional in their last few games. Of the two, the Packers are the hot team. And you gotta go with who's hot.

We're calling it Packers 31 - 49ers 30.

Go Pack Go!!!

2021-22 NFL Divisional Playoffs: Packers vs. 49ers Preview and Prediction

Well, here we go, Packers fans: the Divisional Playoffs! After having the lone NFC bye week by virtue of their #1 seeding, the Pack meet up with the San Francisco 49ers this evening at storied Lambeau Field. We welcome the warm-weather visitors to Green Bay for a night game...in mid-January...where there could be a bit of snow in the air...the game time air temps in the low teens or single digits...and with the wind chill perhaps even dipping below 0 degrees. Have a nice visit!

The Preview

Not really sure how much of a preview to even bother with. The Pack last played in Detroit two weeks ago in a game that meant nothing in their standing, and resulted in a loss. Big whoop. Still finished with a tied-for-league-best 13-4 record.

Some players that had seen limited action this season will be available tonight, among them Za'Darius Smith and Whitney Mercilus who will boost the Pack's pass rush capability and QB sack potential. Also available will be offensive tackle Billy Turner and possibly CB Jaire Alexander, although the later is listed as questionable on the injury report, as is LT David Bakhtiari. The only player on the Packers' injury report listed as doubtful for the game is WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling. However, WR Randall Cobb was activated off IR, so QB Aaron Rodgers will have one of his most trusted receivers available to him, especially in the slot.

For the Niners, two of their top two defensive players, Nick Bosa and Fred Warner — both injured in last week's win over the Cowboys — are cleared for play. QB Jimmy Garoppolo will start once again despite his right thumb and shoulder issues; it will be interesting to see how well he holds up if the Packers can shut down the Niners running game and force him to have to pass to win. Would rookie backup QB Trey Lance see playing time tonight? Possibly. The Packers defense should have prepared for both this week, with Jimmy G the primary consideration at QB. 

But the Packers also have to be concerned about holding phenom WR/RB/Everything Deebo Samuel in check. He's going to get some yards, one way or another. But the Pack can't let him be the difference in the game.

If the Packers defense — line, linebackers and secondary — play to their capability, they should be able to generate a turnover or two. And when they have done that in the past, they typically come away with a win.

Still, we hope (and pray) the Packers special teams don't give the game away. With the special teams' overall league performance at the bottom of the barrel, we're at the time of the season where breakdowns and mistakes just can't happen. Because if they do, even one such instance can be the difference between a win and a loss.

While Packers QB Aaron Rodgers will be wearing the home green jersey,

he will still be signaling that the Packers are Number 1

after they beat the 49ers at Lambeau Field tonight.

(Photo by Mark J. Rebilas / USA Today Sports)

The Prediction

This game and how it concludes is all within the Packers grasp. They worked hard to get the number 1 seed, the bye week, and the home field advantage. They have the MVP leading not just the offense but the entire team. They have the winningest head coach in NFL history through his first three seasons. They have talent on both sides of the ball. Yes, the game still has to be played and the weather conditions will be brutal for both sides. But the Packers have something to prove this season after two consecutive losses in the NFC Championship Game. They need to come out fast — something they typically haven't done after bye weeks — and force the Niners to pass. Turnovers will come if they are able to do that.

My good friend Billy Da Bearz Fan even called earlier today to give me his prediction: 28-27. He wouldn't say who comes out on top because, as a Bearz fan, he would spontaneously combust if he said the Packers would win ... but I know what he meant: Packers. Of course.

My brother-in-law (and 49ers fan) texted me with his call: 28-20 Packers. Remember, this is from a Niners fan.

The Packers are favored by 5-1/2 points at the time of this writing. In a game such as this, not being a betting person, I don't care about whether the Packers cover the spread or not; I care that they win the game.

We're calling it Packers 27 - 49ers 24. Hope it's not that close but, again, just get that win. Get to the NFC Championship Game and make the third time (in a row) the charm.

Go Pack Go!!!

2021 NFL Week 4: Packers vs. Steelers Preview and Prediction

First things first: we were wrong in our prediction about the Niners beating the Packers in last week's game. Thankfully so. Glad to be wrong and admit it.

For this week's game, the 2-1 Pack is back home in the friendly confines of Lambeau Field taking on the 1-2 Pittsburgh Steelers. The Packers are currently favored by 6-1/2 points at the time of this writing. Seems about right, but more on that later in the prediction.

For now, what do things look like?

QB Aaron Rodgers was aided by a quick-release passing approach

in the game vs. the 49ers. So was his young offensive line. Expect that

approach again today vs. the Steelers.

(Photo by Cary Edmondson, Cary Edmondson/USA Today Sports)

The Preview

The Packers, as all good fans know, are coming off an exhilarating last second come-back win against San Francisco. Thirty-seven seconds left, no time outs, and the length of the field to go...or at least a portion of it to get in field goal range for Mason Crosby. Voila!

What we saw in that game may well be the precursor to what will happen again in today's game, minus — it is hoped — the needed comeback in the closing seconds of the game. The Pack's O-line will be without the services of it best lineman, Elgton Jenkins. Which means a young line is likely going to be challenged even more than last week, particularly with the likes of T.J. Watt across from them. But rookie LT Yosh Nijman handled, with a bit of assistance from the tight ends now and then, Niners DE Nick Bosa. The rest of the young line in the middle also held up well as head coach Matt LaFleur went for the most part with a quick-release passing game which meant the linemen didn't need lengthy pass protection times in order to allow the scheme to unfold. Given what Pittsburgh and its front might be able to generate, it would seem that last week's approach would be well suited to today, as well. Unfortunately, the receiving corps will be without Marquez Valdes-Scantling today. He pulled a hamstring in last week's game and will be given time to rest that injury. He's needed going forward so no need to risk him further right now.

On defense, the Packers will be without Za'Darius Smith for the foreseeable future as he had back surgery this week for an injury which cropped up during training camp. Given his contract and salary cap hit for next season, it's likely we won't see him suit up for the Packers ever again. His pass rush will be missed. Still, this opens up opportunities for others. Last week, without Smith, we saw a pass rush that sustained itself at a high level throughout the game. If the defense can muster that same energy today, Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger should find himself under pressure a great deal today. At age 39, Big Ben isn't the same QB he once was. That can add up to good things for the Pack.

The Prediction

After losing two in a row after a good start in Week 1 at Buffalo, the Steelers will come into Lambeau looking to get back on track. Home state boy and former Wisconsin Badgers standout (and a should-have-been Packers draft pick, it should be noted) T.J. Watt will obviously want to have a big game. He will be a disruptive force, no doubt, but the Packers can't allow him to take over the game on that side of the ball. For the Pack, they will want to continue the offensive and, especially, defensive schemes evolution that have occurred since Week 1. And there is no reason to suspect that they won't.

We're calling it Packers 31 - Steelers 20.

Go Pack Go!!! 

2021 NFL Week 3: Packers vs. 49ers Preview and Prediction

The Green Bay Packers did what they needed to do last Monday evening: beat the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Final score was 35-17. Our prediction was 34-24...so...close...somewhat.

But it's not about last week's game or prediction, it's all about tonight's battle on the West Coast, as the Pack meets the 49ers. Reminder, too, this is a "short" week for the Packers, plus the travel. For whatever reasons, the Packers haven't had what you'd call a great deal of success on these trips west. Reasons vary. But what about tonight's game?

The Preview

It's about player availability here as much as anything tonight. The Packers will be without LT Elgton Jenkins tonight on offense (not helpful) and Za'Darius Smith again on defense. Those are two key pieces for the Pack. We also just learned that DB Kevin King is out of tonight's game due to illness. This should give rookie Eric Stokes a chance to continue to show that he is the future at that spot; he had a great game against Detroit and, to our point of view, is a clear upgrade over King. So a blessing in disguise here, perhaps.

Conversely, the Niners will be down to about their sixth-string running back. They are hurting, too. Don't need to say any more about that. And expect San Fran to continue shuffling their veteran and rookie quarterbacks, which may present ongoing challenges for the Pack's defenders.

Having said that, we saw in last Monday's game that the Packers offense can, as expected, put up points...even with QB Aaron Rodgers overthrowing a couple long balls to Marquez Valdes-Scantling that would likely have been easy scores. But the Pack's defense continues to be a huge concern, particularly its lack of pass rush. New defensive coordinator Joe Barry's scheme hasn't come together. In apparently an emphasis to stop the run first, it has allowed the opposing quarterback to sit back in the pocket nearly untouched through the first two games. That has to end...soon.

Could special teams make a difference? Rookie running back / returner Kylin HIll has performed well in his returner role. Could he pop one today? Possible. But could the Packers special teams unit also give up a return? Yes. So we can't count on special teams to decide the game.

It will come down to Rodgers doing Rodgers-like things. More than once or twice. Perhaps even with the ball in his hands at the end of the game to determine the outcome. That would be a positive in our view.

The Prediction

The Niners are favored at the time of this writing by 3-1/2 points...a bit more than home field advantage. And given the Pack's historic performances in these contests, a bit surprised the spread isn't more than that.

In our season prediction, we had the Pack going 3-1 in the first four games. While we didn't make game-by-game picks at that time, instead looking at the overall opponents and schedule, this in actuality was the game we most expected the Packers to lose. While we thought the opener against the Saints would be a tough game, we never saw the team not getting off the plane to play.

While we hope we are wrong, we still see the Packers dropping this one, based off recent history as much as anything, plus the problems on defense.

We're calling this game 49ers 31 - Packers 27.

Still ... Go Pack Go!!!

2020 NFC Championship Game: Green Bay Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers - Preview & Prediction

Quick review: The Packers beat the Seahawks in Green Bay in the Divisional round of the NFC playoffs last weekend, 28-23. It was a battle, as was expected. The Pack played one of their better games in all phases of the game. And they closed it out by never giving the ball back to Seattle late in the game due to timely and needed third down conversions. Packer fans breathed a collective sigh of relief.

Of course, that was temporary. Because next up, for the NFC Championship, was and is the San Francisco 49ers who the prior day had dispatched the Minnesota Vikings.

Which brings us to today.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers will need to be "in a Superman cape", according
to former Niners QB Steve Young, for the Pack to have a chance to win today.
(Photo: Stan Szeto, Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports)

Preview by way of review

Outside of Packers fans, of course, not many are giving the Packers a chance today. The Niners are favored by 7-1/2 points going into the game. Much of this, or at least a good deal of it, has to due with the Week 12 blow out that the Niners won by 29 points on their home turf, 37-8.

Well, here we are once again, on their home turf in Santa Clara. But while home field is important, typically 3 points to the favor of the home team, that doesn't explain the dismissiveness with which the Packers are considered in this game. Frankly, the Pack just didn't show up at the earlier game. They were lethargic, playing-calling was mediocre, and they allowed themselves to get beat in every phase of the game. Yes, there were some horrible penalty calls that didn't help matters, as well as turnovers that set up the Niners in great position to score. And they did. When the Niners had to go a long ways they usually did so passing to receivers who had no defenders within the same zipcode. It was horrible defense and the offense did nothing to help mitigate the damge. By all measures, it was a throw-away game.

But the Packers learned from that loss. The defense had a closed-door players-only meeting after they returned to Green Bay from that game. They wouldn't be as porous or soft in a game since. And the Packers haven't lost since, either. They tightened up. And with the Packers offense finally getting more in sync, albeit still not seemingly firing on all cylinders for lack of receiving threats other than Davante Adams, the team learned how to battle for a full 4 quarters, right down to the wire. In the end, a 13-3 record was the result...the #2 seed...only missing the top seed by virtue of about 12 inches and a TD on a stop in a game in which they were not participants. Oh, and their opponent is also 13-3. Seems pretty even doesn't it?

Not if you listen to the pundits. They emphasize the strength of the Niners defense, particularly the front four, who were able to dominate the Packers O-line in the last outing, a line which, by the way, lost RT Bryan Bulaga early on and had to replace him with Alex Light who was an unmitigated disaster in a backup role. Bulaga is back and is also now backed up most capably by veteran lineman Jared Veldheer.

The Niners offense will have its trio of running backs — Tevin Coleman, Raheem Mostert and Matt Breidain — in gear. They ran and ran on the Vikings last week and wore down that defense. The Pack's defense must find a way to minimize the Niners rushing attack in order to force young QB Jimmy Garoppolo to beat them. Given time and porous coverage, Garoppolo can certainly do damage; he's got a good arm and, admittedly, a winning record in his young career. His offensive line has protected him well, which accounts for a good deal of his success; defenses this season, with few exceptions, haven't made life difficult for him in the pocket. Somehow, someway, the Packers defense has to make him uncomfortable. A few sacks and lots of pressure by the Smith Brothers, Kenny Clark and others would go a long way to making a Packers win more of a possibility. That, and somehow also finding a way to tackle TE George Kittle when he gets the ball in his hands. He could single-handedly do some big damage if left unchecked. Not going to be easy to do.

The Packers offense, has shown signs of being on the same page in the last six games or so. Even QB Aaron Rodgers has said, “The last six weeks, I’ve felt really locked in on the preparation, and I think that’s helped us on offense to really be on the same page.” What else has helped are receivers and tight ends stepping up and making clutch catches instead of drops. Having a solid running game behind Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams is going to be key to opening up the passing game for Rodgers and keeping the Pack in the game. Special teams also needs to come up big. The pick up of Tyler Ervin and his insertion as returner and occasional running threat has been a boost, as well.

Bottom line: all the pressure is on San Fran as no one expects the Packers to win. But the Packers can match up with the Niners.

The Prediction

This game will not be a reprise of Week 12's blow out loss for the Packers. This will be a 4-quarter game, likely down to the wire as has been the case for the Pack throughout much of the season. The Packers have nearly perfected into an art form this season the "bend-don't-break" defense. They should be able to get at least one turnover that will be converted into points. We think they'll also give up more field goals than touchdowns today. Finally, in a close game, who would you rather have with the ball: Garoppolo or Rodgers? Yeah, us too.

We're calling this game Packers 27 - 49ers 26.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 12 Review of Packers loss vs. 49ers, NFL Week 13 Preview vs. Giants — A twofer once again!

So, Packers fans, we come into game 12 of the NFL season (13th week overall) atop the NFC North at 8-3 (well, technically tied with a tiebreaker advantage over the Vikings). This is a record which, we're guessing, most all Green Bay fans would have gladly taken at the beginning of the season. Indeed.

Still, after the particularly concerning way in which the Pack was handled by the Niners in last weekend's game (by the way, dear reader, this is the only mention we will make by way of "review" about that game), some folks may be questioning if the team is as good as the record.

Keep in mind that the Packers have basically been through the hardest part of its schedule in terms of opposing teams' records; the Pack now goes into these final games of the season with the easiest schedule of any playoff contender based upon opposing teams' records. So there's that. Three of the remaining 5 games are on the road. Next up is Washington at Lambeau Field. Then the final 3 games are all vs. division opponents, with Da Bearz at home then at Minnesota and Detroit to close out the regular season.

The Preview and Prediction

With its game today vs. the Giants in New York, the Packers begin what should be a run to another division title. If. If they can stay as relatively healthy as they are now. If they can somehow figure out a way to cover over the middle and down the field. If they can somehow figure out a way to keep getting Davante Adams and Aaron Jones the ball in addition to at least one more playmaker (someone needs to step up regularly) so Aaron Rodgers can spread the ball around. If they can stay out of 3rd and long. If they can somehow, some way find a way to get a punt return or two along the way...just even for positive yardage. If. Lots of ifs.

Packers WR Davante Adams needs to have a big day today against the Giants.
(Photo: Tony Avelar, AP)

But coming off last weekend's debacle in the Bay (San Fran not GB, that is), the New York Giants should be what the doctor ordered. Aaron Rodgers always seems to play well in New York and also typically has a good bounce-back game following a loss. Given the hype and expectations that fell flat in the Niners game, there should have been some soul-searching during this week on the part of the Packers players and coaches. Head coach Matt LaFleur said he definitely needed to do a better job coaching. Yep. He failed to have the team make the adjustments they needed to during the game and was out-coached by his former fellow coaches and his brother.

Wipe that slate clean. Today sets up well for a win. The Packers are favored by 6 points on the road going against a rookie QB with fumbling problems and a Giants team that has lost 7 games in a row. But players still need to perform. The offense will be helped greatly if RT Bryan Bulaga is able to return from his leg injury and play at a high level; if not, there will be reordering along the offensive line which could present problems for both the rushing and passing attacks.

Overall, let's hope the Packers got a reality check last weekend and play with renewed commitment and energy today.

We're calling this game Packers 31 - Giants 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 10 Review of Packers win vs. Panthers, NFL Week 12 Preview vs. 49ers — Yes, still another twofer

If it's seemed as if it's been a while since we've checked in, Packers fans, it's because it has been. Note the headline: a week 10 review and a week 12 preview. What? What happened to week 11??? That was our bye week, kids. Well, not "ours" but the Pack's. So, since it was so long since our last post, let's just remind you, dear reader, that the Packers beat Carolina 24-16 in that game.

Let's just mention two key aspects of that game, although there were certainly more. One was Panthers head coach "Riverboat" Ron Rivera going for the 2-point conversion early in the 4th quarter and failing to convert. He had no need to do so. But we're glad the miss kept his team in a position where it would have had to have both gotten another TD and 2-point conversion just to tie. As it was, the Panthers almost got the touchdown. Almost. This was the second key play we wish to point out: with 4-seconds left on the game clock, Carolina put the ball in the hands of its best player, RB Christian McCaffrey. With only a couple yards to go, the Packers defense rose up and stopped McCaffrey just shy of the goal line. WHEW! Game over. Packers win, Panthers lose. The Pack headed into their bye week with a record of 8-2 and a game against the now 9-1 San Francisco 49ers on the horizon.

This photo from the 2018 meeting between the Packers and 49ers
pretty well portrays what will likely be a similar battle today.
(Photo: Adam Wesley/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wis)

49ers Preview & Prediction

The Niners have the best record in the NFC not by coincidence. They are solid performers on offense and particularly on defense. Highly ranked. The counter to that record standing is that they haven't hit the hard part of their season yet. In fact, the Packers begin a real tough portion of the 49ers' schedule.

While there aren't many perceived weaknesses, QB Jimmy Garoppolo is subject to interceptions; he has 10 interceptions on the season, with interceptions thrown in all but two games. In the last two games, he's had three interceptions. So if the Packers defense can get some pressure on him, it will certainly increase the likelihood of a pick...or two...two would be good.

The Niners have a good rushing attack and can pressure a defense over the middle particularly if TE George Kittle plays today. He's been battling knee and ankle problems but is expected to play today. As Packers fans know, over the middle has been a soft spot all season for the Pack's D; they need to figure out a way to limit the potential damage Kittle and others might cause running free.

There's a lot more that could be said, of course, but let's just get on with the prediction, shall we?

We see this as an extremely tight game. The Packers are the healthier of the two teams, but the 49ers are playing at home, giving them the upside on a 3-point spread at this writing. The rankings would tell you that the 49ers are the better team. But the Packers have the better quarterback in Aaron Rodgers. He also has some rushing and receiving weapons that enable him to spread things around, which will hopefully keep the San Fran defense a bit off guard now and then.

This seems to be a pick 'em type of game, perhaps one where the team that has the ball last wins. The Pack's defense has experience with making big, last minute (or second) stops. We think Green Bay's QB and bend-don't-break defense will be able to do just enough to come away with the win and the #1 slot in the NFC rankings. Which, oh, by the way, means a first round playoff bye and home field advantage. Long way to go in the season yet, but wouldn't that be a nice gift at the end of tonight? Yes, yes it would.

We're calling it Packers 24 - 49ers 23.

Go Pack Go!!!

P.S. A guest prediction of sorts...from my wife...who hails from the Bay area: 49ers in a close one...27-24 over the Pack. No doubt the in-laws would join her in that view.

NFL Week 9 Review of Packers loss to Chargers, NFL Week 10 Preview vs. Panthers — Another twofer

Packers fans, what can be said about last Sunday's loss in LA? Not the Rams, but the Chargers. Ewww. It stunk from the get-go. Not good in any aspect of the game. But give the Chargers credit. They played to a Lambeau West crowd the way many thought they were capable of playing all season long. Let's hope that a lesson was learned by some of the Packer players: you have to show up with your "A" game every Sunday (paraphrasing head coach Matt LaFleur and QB Aaron Rodgers on that one). Moving on...

The Panthers Come to Town

The Carolina Panthers roll into Green Bay this afternoon minus QB Cam Newtwon, out for the rest of the season. That's a plus for the Pack. Unfortunately, the Panthers do still have both potential MVP candidate RB Christian McCaffrey as well as TE Greg Olsen. McCraffey has been tearing it up this season while Olsen is still Olsen. The two key offensive weapons for Carolina just happen to be at the positions that have given the Packers defense problems nearly all season, running back and tight end.

Keeping Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey in check today
will be one of the keys to a Packers victory.
(Photo: Jim Dedmon / USA TODAY Sports)

As Packer fans know all too well, what started off the first few games looking like a real strength of the team, the defense over the majority of the season has had issues, shall we say. Things like, oh, covering receivers, tackling runners, getting a sustained pass rush...that sort of thing. Generally, except really for last Sunday, it's been a bend-don't-break approach, giving up at times explosive plays by the opponent but then holding teams to field goals in the red zone seemingly as often as not.

Of course, the Packers defense also has someone on the offensive side of things that can often cover up some of its deficiencies: one Aaron Rodgers to be exact. And a Rodgers with weapons can make anything happen.Yeah, he has those.

The Prediction

While we were way off on our prediction for last week — thinking the Pack would continue its generally solid play and come away with a sizable win — we think that embarrassment, being at home and in the first real "cold weather" game of the season, plus wanting to go into the bye week with a win before heading out to San Francisco to play the as yet still undefeated 49ers will give the Pack enough motivation to get it done today. But it could be a close one.

The Packers are favored by 5-1/2 at the time of this writing.

We're calling it Packers 27 - Panthers 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

2018 NFL Week 6: Packers vs. 49ers Preview & Prediction

A few words about the Detroit game...

Doesn't it always seem as if something goofy happens when the Packers play at Detroit? Whether for or against the Pack, something odd always seems to occur. In last week's disappointment, the Packers racked up all sorts of offensive stats, but still wound up losing. While the loss can't all be pinned on K Mason Crosby's five missed kicks (that is not a typo -- 4 field goals and a missed extra point)...yes, even just a few of those would have been the difference in the game...what about the play calling? QB Aaron Rodgers' two fumbles? Dropped passes? No pass rush? The blame is across the board. OK, good, now that we've got that out of our systems, let's move on to tonight's game at Lambeau Field against San Francisco, shall we?

Mason Crosby (right) walks off with Hunter Bradly
after missing one of his five field goals at Detroit.
(Photo by Paul Sancya, AP)

The Preview

The Packers are favored by 9-1/2 points going into this game. Pundits are universally picking the Pack to win and win big. That's if the offense can get off to a faster start (they have been outscored 42-13 in the first quarter this season), play without penalties (averaging 8 for more than 80 yards per game) and turnovers, and score TDs when they get into the red zone, all of which have been a challenge so far in this 2-2-1 season.

Otherwise, it could be another game where the Packers clean up statistically and somehow still lose the game. Certainly, the Niners are not the calibre of Detroit, and have had 17 players on the injury report this week. But the Packers are missing key players, too, including wide receivers Randall Cobb and Geronimo Allison. If they fall behind early as has been the case this season, the game plan goes out the window and you're trying to play catch up. There's no need for that. Especially this evening.

The Prediction

This is a game, coming off last Sunday's debacle and heading into the bye week, that the Packers should win and -- yes -- need to win.

We're calling it Packers 31 - 49ers 13.

Go Pack Go!!!

Also, Go Brewers!!!

RIP Jim Taylor

We were saddened to learn over the weekend of the passing of legendary Packers fullback, Jim Taylor. He was always one of my favorite Lombardi-era Packers. He was one of the toughest running backs to ever play the game, rushing for more than 8,000 yards in far fewer games than go into a season these days. He was also the first of those Lombardi Packers to be elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Thanks for the memories, Jim. They are many.

Packers legendary FB Jim Taylor
(Photo by Ernest W. Anheuser, Milwaukee Sentinel)

NFL Week 5 Packers vs. Rams Preview and Prediction

So, let's get this out of the way first (since I was negligent in writing a follow-up earlier in the week): the Packers beat the 49ers. Let's repeat: the Packers beat the 49ers. In San Francisco. And throttled heretofore Packers-killer QB Colin Kaepernick in the process behind a great defensive effort by the Pack. 'Bout time. Yay.

Now..on to today's game: the Packers vs. (the once-and-future Los Angeles) Rams.

Packers DE Mike Daniels and the rest of the "D" have been playing lights out lately.
Photo by Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The Packers come into this game as either 9 or 9-1/2-point favorites depending upon whom you believe for that sort of thing. Either way, Holy Schnikey, Batman, that's a big spread. Yes, the Packers are at home. And are 4-0. And have the best quarterback in the NFL. Even have the third best rushing game in the league (true!) and a vastly-improved defense from the last few years. What do the Rams have to offer? Well, to hear the pundits tell it, probably the best front four defensive linemen in the league. A young and dangerous running back. A speedy receiver. A head coach who will have his team well prepared. And a not-all-that-bad QB in Nick Foles...who, by the way, has beaten the Packers...at Lambeau...when he was with the Eagles.

But that was then, this is now.

The Rams seem to be a Jeckyll-and-Hyde type team so far this season, winning two big games within their division -- at home against Seattle and at Arizona last weekend against the previously undefeated Cardinals -- but who don't seem to do as well against teams outside their division. So they're a bit like Forrest Gump's proverbial box of chocolates: you never know what you're going to get.

But whatever team shows up for the Rams, we know what team will show up for the Packers: very good special teams, an attacking defense (tied with the Rams for the league lead in sacks at 17) and a powerful offense when running on all cylinders. Whether or not the Packers have starting RT Bryan Bulaga back on the line today will be a gametime decision apparently. He did practice this week and said he felt he'd be ready to go. If not, Don Barclay will once again have to hold his own. The tackle positions -- left and right -- have been an issue so far this young season for the Packers. But Aaron Rodgers' mobility is the difference maker if there is pressure. He may be sacked a few times given his tendency to sometimes hold on to the ball a bit too long. But, conversely, his ability to scramble and find receivers downfield, or to break off a run himself, is something which defenses have a hard time defending against...as we've seen through the first four games.

One of the knocks on the Packers' offense right now is that, without Jordy Nelson, the Packers lack a downfield threat to stretch the defenses. Well, the short and intermediate type passes seem to be working quite well. One has to believe, too, that sooner or later one of the young, fast receivers -- Jeff Janis or Jared Abbrederis, perhaps -- will gain Rodgers' trust and start to emerge as at least an occasional threat. That may or may not happen today. But, regardless, the Packers will have all they need to dispatch the Rams despite being without WR Davante Adams and S Morgan Burnett for today's game.

The Prediction
Here it is, gang, the moment you've all been waiting for: our prediction.

While we thought the Packers would easily handle the 49ers last week, things were much closer than expected as the offense just wasn't as in sync as usual. That will have gotten corrected this week. We don't say this will be a blow out. But we do see the Pack winning comfortably.

We're calling it...31-17 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Other notes from this last week

Former Packers head coach -- and Coach of the Year in 1989 -- Lindy Infante passed away this last week at age 75 in Florida. Infante coached the Packers from 1988-1991. He was an offensive genius and universally regarded as one of the nicest guys you'd ever want to meet. RIP, Coach. Read more here.

Safety and special teams standout Sean Richardson was reported to have sustained a second neck injury -- a herniated disk -- which is likely not only season-ending but career-ending. You can read more here about that. We wish the young man well whatever transpires for him going forward. We admired his play.

Packers vs 49ers NFL Week 4 Preview and Prediction

Today's the day, Packer fans, when we learn if the Green Bay Packers have really turned the corner on their two recent nemisises. We know they cleared one hurdle in the win at Lambeau Field over the Seattle Seahawks in the second week of the season; now, we find out if they will finally get past the Colin Kaepernick-led San Francisco 49ers.

Veteran receiver James Jones and rookie tight end Ty Montgomery hope to be celebrating a lot in today's game against the 49ers.
Photo by Rick Wood, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Here's what we know
The Packers are 3-0 and the Niners are 1-2. We know that the Packers were 8-1/2-point favorites earlier in the week with the line now at 7-1/2 points. Big whup. Total points projected for this game are 48, the largest set for any game this weekend. One would expect that most of that figure comes by way of the Packers. That's because the scoring for and against each of these teams is quite revealing. The Packers have scored 96 points and allowed 68 over the course of the first three weeks of the 2015 season; the 49ers, on the other hand, have scored 45 while giving up 93.

These numbers sometimes don't mean much. But in this case, I think we can rightly say that as regards the Packers it is a good reflection of how hot the Pack's offense is at the moment behind a clearly dominant quarterback in Aaron Rodgers, as well as how surprisingly good the defense and special teams have also been this season. While still a work in progress, those two units also deserve a lot of credit for the Packers' success so far this season.

As regards the Niners, the points for and against reflect a team with problems on both sides of the ball. These are not the same Niners that have beat the Packers four straight times. Colin Kaepernick had probably his worst game as a pro last week against the Cardinals, getting picked off four times in a blow-out loss. Still, we know what his legs have done and can do against the Packers. Plus, he'll be looking to have a big game resurrection against a team that he's typically been able to have big games against. The Packers will have to hold him in check the way they did Russell Wilson in week two. San Fran does have capable receivers, so if the pass rush doesn't get to Kaepernick, as well as contain him, the Niners will have their scoring opportunities. Defensively, it's not the same group that often caused problems for the Pack in the past either. The Packers offensive line has given up just three sacks in the first three games of the season. They should hold their own once again against whatever the 49ers can bring. A mobile Aaron Rodgers is a dangerous thing for defenses to contend with. Yay for our side.

Our prediction
This is a game in which the better team will exert itself and come away with the win. Who do you think that is? Ten points for you if said "Packers." (Save up those reward points, kids. Not for anything, though, other than the pure joy of you being right. That's a good enough reward, isn't it? Glad you agree.)

We're calling this game in favor of the Packers, 41-24.

Go Pack Go!!!

By the way, be sure to follow us on Twitter @packfansunited. We often Tweet in real-time giving added enjoyment and excitement to your game-viewing experience. It will be spectacular! (Question: can time be anything but "real-time"...or...is that just something we made up, too? Hmmmm...)

Packers get two compensatory picks

Today was the day that the NFL in its generosity handed out -- assigned, actually -- compensatory draft picks to teams who lost players in free agency last season. The Packers got an additional third round pick for Greg Jennings and another fifth round pick for Erik Walden.

Here's how the Packers go into the upcoming NFL Draft:

• R1: 21
• R2: 53
• R3: 85
• R3: 98 (comp)
• R4: 121
• R5: 161
• R5: 176 (comp)
• R6: 197
• R7: 236

You can see the full draft order here.

Now, we all know that "Trader Ted" Thompson likes to move around and pick up more picks, if possible. That usually involves trading down somewhere along the way. There's been some speculation, because of the depth of the draft, that the Packers might trade out of the #21 position. It's possible that Thompson might move down a few spots to pick up an additional draft choice if he feels he can meet his needs with one of the players high on their draft board. I think it's equally likely that if "the guy" is there they want Thompson will select at #21 and then worry about other moves later. Time will tell.

In a related note, it now turns out that with compensatory picks included, the 49ers now have six picks in the top 100. The rich get richer.

Don't you just love that we're really starting to get into football talk again, Packer fans? Oh, yes. Yes, indeed.

Go Pack Go!!!

Does Seahawks' Super Bowl Win Mean a Paradigm Change in the NFL?

Defense wins championships.

That adage certainly was on full display in yesterday's 43-8 Super Bowl victory by the Seattle Seahawks over the Denver Broncos. The Seahawks dominated the trenches on both sides of the ball. The late great Vince Lombardi, and virtually every other coach on the planet, preach the simplicity of the game: block and tackle. Oh sure, there's a few other bits and pieces in there, too, but generally the team that blocks and tackles their opponent the best will be the victor. The NFL's number one defense -- Seattle -- beat the league's number one offense -- Denver -- like a rented mule in those key phases of the game.

Of course, another key phase is turnovers. The Broncos turned the ball over four times, six if you include the two fumbles they recovered for themselves; Seattle had no turnovers. At least 14 Seattle points (more?) came directly off of those Denver turnovers. Let's not forget the safety, as well, that opened the game. Special teams often seem to have a role in games such as this, as well. Percy Harvin's 87-yard kickoff return was basically the dagger 12 seconds into the third quarter, putting Seattle up 29-0.

Photo by Associated Press

Second-year QB (and former University of Wisconsin Badger) Russell Wilson was 18 of 25 passing, for 206 yards and two touchdowns. He outperformed veteran Peyton Manning by light years. (Congrats also to former Badgers S Chris Maragos and LB O'Brien Schofield, as well as offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell; sympathies to Denver RB Montee Ball.)

What does it mean?
It seems with every Super Bowl, or at least ones where there is such blowout, the question arises: does this mean some kind of paradigm shift in the NFL? Has the type of offensive play shifted to young and versatile quarterbacks who can move out of the pocket and even scamper for 15 or 50 yards at a crack if needed? Has the defense shifted style to larger cornerbacks and faster and more mobile defenses in general?

Time will tell. Certainly in the NFC, we'd have to consider Seattle and San Francisco at the head of the game based upon the above criteria. When comparing the Packers, especially the defense, to what both the Niners and Seahawks bring to the field, the Pack comes up lacking, which we saw throughout the season. Injuries weren't the full story. Personnel was. As Troy Aikman (?) said during the telecast last night about Seattle GM John Schneider, when he was with the Packers he saw that the team tended to go with smaller cornerbacks and when he became head of the Seahawks operation he made a concerted decision to bring in larger corners. Seems to have paid off. Perhaps Packers GM Ted Thompson can take a few lessons from his former protege.

If the Packers are to compete with the likes of San Francisco and Seattle next season and beyond, a re-thinking about the defense has to take place. In last night's game, for example, how often did you see missed tackles by Seattle defenders? Rarely. How often did you see missed tackles by Packer defenders this past season? Often.

The quickness and toughness of the Seattle defense was at a level the Packers haven't displayed in recent years. Yes, I'd put up the Packers offense against any other team, no problem. But the defense? That's the Achilles Heel for the team right now. The Packers brain trust better do some major re-working of that defense in the off-season to be able to make it past the first round of the playoffs next season. It will not be easy. But it must -- and can -- be done.

Go Pack Go!!!

The Packers lose to 49ers, lose home playoff luster

Yes, Packer fans, it's taken me quite a while to get past the Green Bay Packers' loss to the San Francisco 49ers and post a wrap-up of sorts. Losing for the fourth time in as many games to these guys from the West Coast is getting old, especially when they knock you out of the playoffs two years in a row. And particularly when that other quarterback's legs seem too much for the Packers defense to shut down. Also, after a home playoff record of 13-0 at Lambeau Field through the franchise's history, since 2002 the record has now fallen to 3-5. The luster is off the home field playoff game advantage. Who'd have thunk it?

On the positive side of things, the Packers did win the NFC North Division when, after their Thanksgiving Day loss to the Lions, they were as good as dead. Teams tend to be what they are, especially down the stretch. The Lions were the Lions, Da Bearz were Da Bearz and the ViQueens...well, never mind. The Packers -- despite the multiple injuries to key players on both sides of the ball -- somehow were able to persevere and finish strong down the stretch. That's a testament to the coaches as well as the players who had to step up. They were the Packers. And that's pretty darn good.

Photo by AP on Packers.com

But we also need to be honest. Pretty darn good is not good enough, as the last few years have shown. While the offense looks as if it will be set for some time to come, barring injuries once again and the likely departure of TE Jermichael Finley, the defense needs an overhaul. Looking at the divisional playoff games this past weekend, especially in the NFC, the Pack's defense seems slow and soft especially down the middle. Questions have arisen once again from fans and pundits alike about the future of defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. In Mike McCarthy's last press conference of the season, he defended Capers. You'd expect no less. And to be fair, Wayne Larrivee, one of the best analysts in the business and the person who also just happens to be the radio voice of the Packers, has said repeatedly since the end of the season that he is convinced the problem does not lie with the coaching staff, but rather the personnel the Packers have.

The Packers will have lots of decisions to make regarding its players, particularly along the defensive front and in the secondary. It could also be argued that there needs to be some adjustments in the linebacker corps, as well. For even as much as the stats show A.J. Hawk is key in terms of tackles, defensive assignment calls, etc., it became more and more apparent that he is slow especially in coverage. Nick Perry, who was supposed to complement Hawk in the middle has basically been a non-factor in his brief time with the Pack. Clay Matthews is a beast, but in the last two years he has only been able to play in 11 and 12 games. No one can predict injuries, but when your best defensive player can't be on the field for an entire season -- especially at the salary he's being paid -- it takes its toll on the team in many ways.

CB Tramon Williams has already said that he thinks the Packers need to have more veterans on the team. GM Ted Thompson's ongoing reliance on young and unproven talent acquired through the draft works to a point. But look at what both San Francisco and Seattle did in the offseason to upgrade their talent through free agency. Then look at which two teams are playing in the NFC Championship this coming weekend. Perhaps Thompson needs to take another look at his approach. Salary cap will play a big factor in what he can and can't do given the salaries already tied up in Matthews and QB Aaron Rodgers. But one or two veteran free agents in key spots, even with the likelihood of overpaying, has to be a consideration. The Packers are clearly a step behind, literally and figuratively, on the defensive side of the ball and unless changes are made they will find themselves an early out in the playoffs next season, as well (and, yes, I'm assuming the Packers will be in the playoffs again next season).

There is so much more that could be said on this and related subjects. But we now have the entire offseason to kick all that around. It will be our own version of fantasy football. Keep checking back in. We'll have lots to say.