For all the fans of the Green Bay Packers throughout the universe, this is the day we have looked forward to since that gut-wrenching overtime playoff loss in Arizona: the start of the 2010 regular season! Oh happy day!!!
And what better way to kick it off than by starting the season in a place where the Packers haven't won since Vince Lombardi was the head coach. No kidding. The last time the Pack won in Philly was Nov. 11, 1962 when the Packers routed the Eagles 49-0. May it be so today. Otherwise, it will be nine straight regular season defeats (10 counting playoffs) in the City of Brotherly Love. But let's not go there.
This is a game the Packers should win. In fact, the current line at the time of the writing of this post has the Pack favored by 3 points. But given that it is the first game and about the only known is that the Packers offense will put up points, there are questions. As followers of this blog and other reports are well aware, for the Packers those questions concern the pass rush, the secondary, and the special teams. That's essentially two-thirds of the team. We just don't know how the switch of B.J. Raji to the nose tackle position and Ryan Pickett to defensive end will work out. We don't know what the departure of Aaron Kampman means long-term. We haven't yet seen how moving LB Clay Matthews to the opposite side will impact his game. And the questions in the secondary? Get outta here! They abound, especially with some key players out and untested rookies being called upon to start and play prominent roles. And special teams? Other than having a definite upgrade at punter there is still no legitimate return threat on either punts or kick offs; using starting receivers and/or defensive backs in those returner roles opens up a whole can of worms should they get injured fulfilling those roles. But as head coach McCarthy pointed out clearly this week when asked about this situation, injuries are part of the game in football and you have to go with the players you have. In other words, it is what it is.
On the Philly side of things, there are also many questions but especially surrounding their new starting QB, Kevin Kolb. The team felt comfortable enough with him to send long-time starter Donovan McNabb to Washington. Kolb's best target as a receiver is DeSean Jackson, who can also do damage as a returner. If the Packers can generate a pass rush, they should have a good day at the office.
Both teams, it should be noted, were great at generating turnovers last year and, generally, taking care of the ball: the Packers created 40 turnovers (1st in the NFL) and the Eagles created 38 (3rd in the league). The Packers also led the league in net turnover margin with 24, while the Eagles had 15 (if memory serves). One of the things coach McCarthy was not happy with this training camp was the number of times the ball apparently was on the ground...that would be a reflection on the offense, of course.
So, the keys today for a Packers win: create a pass rush, contain DeSean Jackson, get a turnover or two, take care of the ball, don't give up any big punt or kick returns (see "contain DeSean Jackson" above), and let Aaron Rodgers work his magic with his talented receiving corps. That will add up to a Packers win.
We're calling this one...Packers 27 - Eagles 20.
Go Pack Go!!!
Ron Kramer, RIP
Packers' Glory Years tight end Ron Kramer (not to be confused with RG Jerry Kramer) passed away at his home yesterday at age 75. According to the Packers' website, Kramer caught 170 passes for 2,594 yards and 15 touchdowns in 89 games. Kramer's yardage as a tight end ranks second in team history behind only Paul Coffman and 16th in team annals overall. Kramer ranks sixth on the all-time tight ends list in receptions and fifth in touchdowns. He was one of the heroes of the Packers' 1961 championship victory over the NY Giants with two touchdown catches (if memory serves).
Kramer was a three-sport, nine-time letterman at the University of Michigan. He was the Packers' number one draft pick in 1957. It's said on the Packers Hall of Fame site that "Kramer's 6'3", 240-pound size, combined with his speed and athleticism, revolutionized the tight end position." Kramer was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1975.
For more on the late great Ron Kramer, click here.
Showing posts with label Aaron Kampman. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Aaron Kampman. Show all posts
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
NFC North: Da Bearz and Lions try to improve
I know, I know, that really is a bit of an oxymoron, isn't it? Talking about Da Bearz and Lions in the same sentence as the word "improve." C'mon, right?
Well, there is no doubt after the early days of free agency signings that the playing field will have changed when the Packers meet their division foes to the south and east this Fall. Da Bearz management somehow got ownership (i.e., the McCaskeys) to pry open their wallet and fork over what reports say could be up to $121 million for three players: defensive end Julius Peppers, tight end Brandon Manumaleuna and running back Chester Taylor. So, perhaps we'll see improved defensive line play in Chicago. Taylor was primarily a 3rd down back with the ViQueens and will spell Matt Forte at running back. Still, they have Jay Cutler at QB (how'd that big signing work out last season, by the way? Oh...right...) and still nobody for him to throw to. A shame, really, given that bucketload of money they gave to Cutler last season...and then there were all those draft choices they traded away as part of that deal, too. You can almost smell the desperation coming out of Chi-Town, can't you?
As for the Lions, the perennial bottom feeders of the division and league, they signed defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and receiver Nate Burleson. They also traded a couple late-round draft picks for defensive tackle Corey Williams and cornerback Chris Houston. Interesting moves that should help the rebuilding process in Detroit. But they still have a long way to go.
As regards the ViQueens, the only thing that matters there -- or in the division, really -- is whether Ol' #4 decides to come back. Given that the 'Queens will let him come dancing back in for a few weeks of training camp prior to the season, my bet is we'll see Brett Favre under center for one mo' go 'round in that funky purple.
The Pack, of course, has really done little in the way of outside free agency signings. GM Ted Thompson seems to be more focused on keeping the best of his own roster on board, resigning LT Chad Clifton and S Nick Collins and letting DE Aaron Kampman walk away.
The only true free agent signing so far came yesterday in the form of WR Charles Dillon. Who? From the Packers own press release: "The Green Bay Packers have signed WR Charles Dillon. Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson announced the signing Tuesday. A 6-foot, 202-pound first-year player, Dillon spent time with the Indianapolis Colts during training camp in 2008. A former Washington State letterman, he spent the 2009 season with the Spokane Shock in af2. He will wear No. 17." Ah, now we know.
A wide receiver issued #17. Kind of like a baseball pitcher being issued #91. Likelihood of sticking? You got it, not much, particularly with the Pack's already exceptional receiving corps as your competition. Unless, that is, Dillon's exceptional speed and apparent ability to find the endzone (at least on shortened arena league fields) gives him a shot as a returner on special teams. Ya never know.
Packers to unveil a third uniform this weekend
Perhaps some of the biggest news to potentially emerge this weekend during the Packers Fan Fest at Lambeau Field will be the unveiling of the official third "alternate" jersey and uniform for this season and perhaps beyond. The only scuttlebutt so far, confirmed on the Packers website, is that the look will derive from the Pack's first decade of existence. For those not up on their Packers history, that would be the 1920s. According to an article at packers.com, "In their first decade, the Packers wore navy blue jerseys with golden or canvas-colored pants and a brown leather helmet. The uniform to be unveiled Friday will be a re-creation of a uniform from that era, modified to adhere to current NFL guidelines regarding elements like jersey numbers and names."
Of course, there will also be merchandising opportunities galore that come along with the new look: "The third jerseys, as well as the accompanying sideline apparel that the coaches and support staff will wear during the game, will be available to fans in the Packers Pro Shop at a later date. Murphy anticipated that would be sometime around training camp or the start of the regular season."
So...keep an eye out...what's old is new again for Packer fans everywhere.
Well, there is no doubt after the early days of free agency signings that the playing field will have changed when the Packers meet their division foes to the south and east this Fall. Da Bearz management somehow got ownership (i.e., the McCaskeys) to pry open their wallet and fork over what reports say could be up to $121 million for three players: defensive end Julius Peppers, tight end Brandon Manumaleuna and running back Chester Taylor. So, perhaps we'll see improved defensive line play in Chicago. Taylor was primarily a 3rd down back with the ViQueens and will spell Matt Forte at running back. Still, they have Jay Cutler at QB (how'd that big signing work out last season, by the way? Oh...right...) and still nobody for him to throw to. A shame, really, given that bucketload of money they gave to Cutler last season...and then there were all those draft choices they traded away as part of that deal, too. You can almost smell the desperation coming out of Chi-Town, can't you?
As for the Lions, the perennial bottom feeders of the division and league, they signed defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and receiver Nate Burleson. They also traded a couple late-round draft picks for defensive tackle Corey Williams and cornerback Chris Houston. Interesting moves that should help the rebuilding process in Detroit. But they still have a long way to go.
As regards the ViQueens, the only thing that matters there -- or in the division, really -- is whether Ol' #4 decides to come back. Given that the 'Queens will let him come dancing back in for a few weeks of training camp prior to the season, my bet is we'll see Brett Favre under center for one mo' go 'round in that funky purple.
The Pack, of course, has really done little in the way of outside free agency signings. GM Ted Thompson seems to be more focused on keeping the best of his own roster on board, resigning LT Chad Clifton and S Nick Collins and letting DE Aaron Kampman walk away.
The only true free agent signing so far came yesterday in the form of WR Charles Dillon. Who? From the Packers own press release: "The Green Bay Packers have signed WR Charles Dillon. Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson announced the signing Tuesday. A 6-foot, 202-pound first-year player, Dillon spent time with the Indianapolis Colts during training camp in 2008. A former Washington State letterman, he spent the 2009 season with the Spokane Shock in af2. He will wear No. 17." Ah, now we know.
A wide receiver issued #17. Kind of like a baseball pitcher being issued #91. Likelihood of sticking? You got it, not much, particularly with the Pack's already exceptional receiving corps as your competition. Unless, that is, Dillon's exceptional speed and apparent ability to find the endzone (at least on shortened arena league fields) gives him a shot as a returner on special teams. Ya never know.
Packers to unveil a third uniform this weekend
Perhaps some of the biggest news to potentially emerge this weekend during the Packers Fan Fest at Lambeau Field will be the unveiling of the official third "alternate" jersey and uniform for this season and perhaps beyond. The only scuttlebutt so far, confirmed on the Packers website, is that the look will derive from the Pack's first decade of existence. For those not up on their Packers history, that would be the 1920s. According to an article at packers.com, "In their first decade, the Packers wore navy blue jerseys with golden or canvas-colored pants and a brown leather helmet. The uniform to be unveiled Friday will be a re-creation of a uniform from that era, modified to adhere to current NFL guidelines regarding elements like jersey numbers and names."
Of course, there will also be merchandising opportunities galore that come along with the new look: "The third jerseys, as well as the accompanying sideline apparel that the coaches and support staff will wear during the game, will be available to fans in the Packers Pro Shop at a later date. Murphy anticipated that would be sometime around training camp or the start of the regular season."
So...keep an eye out...what's old is new again for Packer fans everywhere.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Kampman heads to Jacksonville
In a very anticlimactic departure, longtime Packer Aaron Kampman has left the building, so to speak.
After being moved from his down defensive end position to upright outside linebacker in the Packers new 3-4 scheme last season, it was apparent that Kampman wasn't happy. Whether through an inability or an unwillingness to adapt to the system, Kampman was a fish out of water. It was apparent. With free agency looming, the Packers should have traded him. Instead, they waited, apparently thinking he'd come around. The only thing that came around was a season-ending knee injury which all but guaranteed that Kampman would move on and the Packers would receive absolutely nothing for one of the best pass rushing defensive ends in the league. Sad on a lot of fronts.
Kampman was and is a fan fave. He was a valuable member of the Packers and extended Green Bay community. His leadership will be missed.
The Florida Times-Union reported Kampman's new contract with the Jaguars is worth $26 million over four years, including $11 million guaranteed. And, yes, the Jags play the ol' 4-3 in which Kampman admits feeling much more comfortable.
Anyway, the Pack last week kept LT Chad Clifton as a security blanket to protect QB Aaron Rodgers. This week, they decided they couldn't fit this round peg called Aaron Kampman into the square hole of the 3-4 scheme.
See ya, Mr. Kampman. Thanks for your eight years of great service to the Green 'n' Gold.
You can read more about Kampman's signing with the Jaguars here.
After being moved from his down defensive end position to upright outside linebacker in the Packers new 3-4 scheme last season, it was apparent that Kampman wasn't happy. Whether through an inability or an unwillingness to adapt to the system, Kampman was a fish out of water. It was apparent. With free agency looming, the Packers should have traded him. Instead, they waited, apparently thinking he'd come around. The only thing that came around was a season-ending knee injury which all but guaranteed that Kampman would move on and the Packers would receive absolutely nothing for one of the best pass rushing defensive ends in the league. Sad on a lot of fronts.
Kampman was and is a fan fave. He was a valuable member of the Packers and extended Green Bay community. His leadership will be missed.
The Florida Times-Union reported Kampman's new contract with the Jaguars is worth $26 million over four years, including $11 million guaranteed. And, yes, the Jags play the ol' 4-3 in which Kampman admits feeling much more comfortable.
Anyway, the Pack last week kept LT Chad Clifton as a security blanket to protect QB Aaron Rodgers. This week, they decided they couldn't fit this round peg called Aaron Kampman into the square hole of the 3-4 scheme.
See ya, Mr. Kampman. Thanks for your eight years of great service to the Green 'n' Gold.
You can read more about Kampman's signing with the Jaguars here.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Packers - Lions Game #2 Preview
As the Packers ready themselves on this Thanksgiving Day morning to meet the Lions in Detroit, two words should come to mind. No, not Macy's Parade.
How' bout: Tampa Bay.
Hate to bring that up, but at least I'm doing so before you gorged yourself on enough turkey and stuffing to feed a famine-starved country.
The Packers went into the Tampa game facing a team that had absolutely nothing going for it, and which hadn't won a game. We know how that worked out. The Pack laid an egg.
Let's just hope the Packers take care of business today and not turn the Lions into pseudo-Buccaneers. The Lions have had more injury problems than the Packers all season on both sides of the ball. And while rookie QB Matthew Stafford (listed as doubtful on the injury report) returned to the game last week to rally his team to a victory after separating his left shoulder, will the Lions risk seriously injuring him and damaging his future by playing him today? I think that's where the "doubtful" comes in.
While the season-ending injuries to CB Al Harris and LB Aaron Kampman are definite blows to the Packers squad, the back ups are certainly adequate to the task at hand today. And, of course, there's nothing wrong with the Packers offense which seems to be firing on all cylinders.
The Lions always play their Thanksgiving Day game as if it is their Super Bowl. And coming off their victory on Sunday, expect them to be pumped up at the outset. But at some point -- assuming there is no reprise of the Tampa Bay game -- the Packers' talent will win out.
Yes, Detroit has the edge in this Turkey Day rivalry, 11-6-1, even keeping the Packers from achieving undefeated seasons once or twice as I recall. The last time Detroit won on Thanksgiving was in 2003 against -- you guessed it -- the Packers. The Pack should bring the overall record a bit closer to .500 for Thanksgiving with the Lions by the time this early game is done. The Packers are favored by 10-1/2 points (11 in some spreads). We're taking the Packers 34-13.
Go Pack Go!!!
By the way, if you want to read an excellent story about the Packers' Thanksgiving Day games -- have played 33 times on Thanksgiving including today -- check out this article on the 620wtmj radio website. Did you know, for example, that in 1932 the Packers played the Brooklyn Dodgers and won by a score of 7-0. Wait...weren't the Brooklyn Dodgers a baseball team??? Here's some great bar trivia for you, gang. Read it and earn!
How' bout: Tampa Bay.
Hate to bring that up, but at least I'm doing so before you gorged yourself on enough turkey and stuffing to feed a famine-starved country.
The Packers went into the Tampa game facing a team that had absolutely nothing going for it, and which hadn't won a game. We know how that worked out. The Pack laid an egg.
Let's just hope the Packers take care of business today and not turn the Lions into pseudo-Buccaneers. The Lions have had more injury problems than the Packers all season on both sides of the ball. And while rookie QB Matthew Stafford (listed as doubtful on the injury report) returned to the game last week to rally his team to a victory after separating his left shoulder, will the Lions risk seriously injuring him and damaging his future by playing him today? I think that's where the "doubtful" comes in.
While the season-ending injuries to CB Al Harris and LB Aaron Kampman are definite blows to the Packers squad, the back ups are certainly adequate to the task at hand today. And, of course, there's nothing wrong with the Packers offense which seems to be firing on all cylinders.
The Lions always play their Thanksgiving Day game as if it is their Super Bowl. And coming off their victory on Sunday, expect them to be pumped up at the outset. But at some point -- assuming there is no reprise of the Tampa Bay game -- the Packers' talent will win out.
Yes, Detroit has the edge in this Turkey Day rivalry, 11-6-1, even keeping the Packers from achieving undefeated seasons once or twice as I recall. The last time Detroit won on Thanksgiving was in 2003 against -- you guessed it -- the Packers. The Pack should bring the overall record a bit closer to .500 for Thanksgiving with the Lions by the time this early game is done. The Packers are favored by 10-1/2 points (11 in some spreads). We're taking the Packers 34-13.
Go Pack Go!!!
By the way, if you want to read an excellent story about the Packers' Thanksgiving Day games -- have played 33 times on Thanksgiving including today -- check out this article on the 620wtmj radio website. Did you know, for example, that in 1932 the Packers played the Brooklyn Dodgers and won by a score of 7-0. Wait...weren't the Brooklyn Dodgers a baseball team??? Here's some great bar trivia for you, gang. Read it and earn!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
The biz side of the Harris and Kampman injuries
As bad as the season-ending injuries are to CB Al Harris and LB Aaron Kampman from their potential impact on the Packers' season, and the even more important aspect of their own personal health of course, there comes the inevitable business discussion. As in how these injuries will affect future roster moves.
One of the more immediate moves that was just made by the Packers was the signing of former Denver Broncos CB Josh Bell. The Packers worked him out yesterday and liked him enough to reportedly sign him to a two-year deal. He is expected to be part of the Packers walk-through practice today (without pads, given the short turnaround before Thursday's game in Detroit) and be on the active roster for the Lions game. You can read more about Bell here. Sounds like a good signing, given the circumstances, although Bell himself is coming off an injury and is the reason he wasn't kept on the Denver roster this season.
But there are obviously decisions that will need to be made regarding Harris and Kampman, as well. As an article yesterday pointed out, Harris, who turns 35 in December, will have two years remaining on his contract. He keeps himself in great physical condition and has been known to be a fast healer. But at this age and with this injury, he will need a spectacular recovery in order to pick up where he left off.
Of greater concern is Kampman. When the move was made from the 4-3 to the 3-4 defense this off-season, and it became somewhat apparent to all that Kampman was a bit out of place in the new scheme, some pundits felt that the Packers should have traded him. Coming off outstanding seasons in his down defensive end position, the Packers should have gotten a high value for him. But Kampman was also going into his "contract year," eligible for free agency at the end of the season. There was some speculation that perhaps the Packers would put a franchise tag on him and then do what they did with Corey Williams: trade him for a good value. Now, with this injury, the likelihood of Kampman being able to get big money from another team or the Packers being able to trade him and get something in return, is out the window.
According to the above-mentioned article, "The injury could sideline Kampman 10 months, which would put his return to the football field somewhere around the first or second week of the 2010 season." He may have to sign a one-year deal with the Packers to reestablish his value, and the Packers may have to do so if they wish to try to get something in trade for Kampman later on.
To paraphrase, football is what happens while you're busy making other plans.
One of the more immediate moves that was just made by the Packers was the signing of former Denver Broncos CB Josh Bell. The Packers worked him out yesterday and liked him enough to reportedly sign him to a two-year deal. He is expected to be part of the Packers walk-through practice today (without pads, given the short turnaround before Thursday's game in Detroit) and be on the active roster for the Lions game. You can read more about Bell here. Sounds like a good signing, given the circumstances, although Bell himself is coming off an injury and is the reason he wasn't kept on the Denver roster this season.
But there are obviously decisions that will need to be made regarding Harris and Kampman, as well. As an article yesterday pointed out, Harris, who turns 35 in December, will have two years remaining on his contract. He keeps himself in great physical condition and has been known to be a fast healer. But at this age and with this injury, he will need a spectacular recovery in order to pick up where he left off.
Of greater concern is Kampman. When the move was made from the 4-3 to the 3-4 defense this off-season, and it became somewhat apparent to all that Kampman was a bit out of place in the new scheme, some pundits felt that the Packers should have traded him. Coming off outstanding seasons in his down defensive end position, the Packers should have gotten a high value for him. But Kampman was also going into his "contract year," eligible for free agency at the end of the season. There was some speculation that perhaps the Packers would put a franchise tag on him and then do what they did with Corey Williams: trade him for a good value. Now, with this injury, the likelihood of Kampman being able to get big money from another team or the Packers being able to trade him and get something in return, is out the window.
According to the above-mentioned article, "The injury could sideline Kampman 10 months, which would put his return to the football field somewhere around the first or second week of the 2010 season." He may have to sign a one-year deal with the Packers to reestablish his value, and the Packers may have to do so if they wish to try to get something in trade for Kampman later on.
To paraphrase, football is what happens while you're busy making other plans.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Packers bad news update: Kampman joins Harris out for season
We initially heard reports after yesterday's game versus the 49ers that CB Al Harris would be lost for the remainder of the season with a torn ACL in his left knee. But Coach Mike McCarthy had indicated to reporters that he believed LB Aaron Kampman would be lost for at least 2 to 4 weeks with an as-then unspecified knee injury.
Turns out the "at least" part of that statement was more true than the 2 to 4 weeks part.
Word came later in the evening that Kampman would also be lost for the rest of the season with exactly the same injury as Harris, a torn ACL in the left knee.
Losing one of these defensive leaders would be bad. Losing both in the same game for the remainder of the year now deals a serious blow to the Packers playoff potential.
Rookie LB Brad Jones will now have to play each of the remaining games as well as he played against Dallas last week. And while it was initially thought that Brandon Underwood might be called upon to take over Harris' spot, reports out of Green Bay are that they will move nickel back Tramon Williams into that role, with Jarrett Bush (uh-oh) moving from the dime back to the nickel back slot and Underwood (uh-oh) going into the dime back slot. Last season, Williams did a good job filling in for Harris after the latter was lost with a lacerated spleen injury. He's not the physical shut-down type cornerback that Harris is, but he does have speed and has played enough to not make foolish mistakes.
Aside from the physical presence and ability both Harris and Kampman brought to the squad, what will also be missed will be their on and off-field leadership.
This situation will give some insight into the depth of the team. Certainly it will require defensive coordinator Dom Capers to adjust his defensive scheme. Just when it finally looked as if the 3-4 defense was starting to click, poof!
Can the replacements do the job they need to do and in the process help the Packers stay in the wildcard hunt? Stay tuned. Stay tuned.
In the meantime, you can read more about the current situation here.
Turns out the "at least" part of that statement was more true than the 2 to 4 weeks part.
Word came later in the evening that Kampman would also be lost for the rest of the season with exactly the same injury as Harris, a torn ACL in the left knee.
Losing one of these defensive leaders would be bad. Losing both in the same game for the remainder of the year now deals a serious blow to the Packers playoff potential.
Rookie LB Brad Jones will now have to play each of the remaining games as well as he played against Dallas last week. And while it was initially thought that Brandon Underwood might be called upon to take over Harris' spot, reports out of Green Bay are that they will move nickel back Tramon Williams into that role, with Jarrett Bush (uh-oh) moving from the dime back to the nickel back slot and Underwood (uh-oh) going into the dime back slot. Last season, Williams did a good job filling in for Harris after the latter was lost with a lacerated spleen injury. He's not the physical shut-down type cornerback that Harris is, but he does have speed and has played enough to not make foolish mistakes.
Aside from the physical presence and ability both Harris and Kampman brought to the squad, what will also be missed will be their on and off-field leadership.
This situation will give some insight into the depth of the team. Certainly it will require defensive coordinator Dom Capers to adjust his defensive scheme. Just when it finally looked as if the 3-4 defense was starting to click, poof!
Can the replacements do the job they need to do and in the process help the Packers stay in the wildcard hunt? Stay tuned. Stay tuned.
In the meantime, you can read more about the current situation here.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Harris out for season, Kampman out 2-4 weeks
According to the latest reports, Packers CB Al Harris -- on track for another Pro Bowl -- is out for the rest of the season with a torn ACL suffered in today's game, and LB Aaron Kampman is projected to be out at least 2-4 weeks with an as-yet unspecified knee injury also sustained today.
A costly victory for the Packers, losing these two outstanding defensive starters.
Rookie LB Brad Jones performed well last week starting in place of Kampman and in relief today. Rookie CB Brandon Underwood, however, was a definite target after coming in for Harris today and, if he is the designated replacement for Harris, will have to step up his game considerably. Primarily a special teams player, he has been known to be out of position and is frequently called for penalties of various kinds. Nobody could play to Harris' level, but we will have to see whether or not Underwood has the stuff to even play in Harris' shadow or not.
A costly victory for the Packers, losing these two outstanding defensive starters.
Rookie LB Brad Jones performed well last week starting in place of Kampman and in relief today. Rookie CB Brandon Underwood, however, was a definite target after coming in for Harris today and, if he is the designated replacement for Harris, will have to step up his game considerably. Primarily a special teams player, he has been known to be out of position and is frequently called for penalties of various kinds. Nobody could play to Harris' level, but we will have to see whether or not Underwood has the stuff to even play in Harris' shadow or not.
Final: Packers 30 - 49ers 24
The second half was not as dominating as the first for the Packers, but the final score on the board means another "W" and that's all the dominance you need at the end of the day. The 49ers made a game of it after both the Packers offense and defense seemed to become more conservative. (Am I the only fan who wonders why, when you have it dialed up and are in complete control, you then dial it down???)
In the 3rd quarter, the Niners scored their first TD of the day on a 38-yard pass play from Alex Smith to Michael Crabtree over Al Harris, to make the score 23-10. The Packers got their only TD of the 2nd half with about 11 minutes to go in the 4th quarter, after a sequence that included: a punt by the Packers downed at the 2-yard line, followed by Smith throwing out of his end zone and getting picked off at about the 20 by Nick Collins who returned it to the 11, after which Rodgers connected on a 3rd down pass with Jermichael Finley for a 1st down inside the 1 yard line...Ryan Grant picked up a rushing TD and in the process went over 100 yards rushing for the game...whew!
That made the score 30-10 Packers.
But just when you thought it was safe, the Packers not-so-special teams once again let the opponent right back in the game by giving up a roughly 76-yard kickoff return. On the first play, Al Harris went down in the end zone, away from the play after apparently planting his foot and collapsing. He was in obvious pain and was taken off the field on a cart for X-rays; Aaron Kampan had earlier been carted off the field after also sustaining a knee injury. (In his post-game meeting with the media, head coach Mike McCarthy said both looked serious but until he gets further evaluation it's not possible to say how long either player might be out.) Two plays later, Smith connected on his second TD pass of the day to make the score 30-17. The Packers found themselves unable to sustain any drive and rather quickly returned the ball to the Niners. Fighting the clock, the Niners continued to both protect Alex Smith and allow him to connect with his receivers. On a 4th-and-5 from the Packers' 10-yard line, Smith hit RB Frank Gore on a short pass which he took into the end zone to make the score 30-24 Packers with just under 6 minutes remaining in the game.
The Packers, courtesy of a couple big and crucial runs by Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson were able to keep the ball and take the clock down to the 2 minute warning. With the 49ers out of timeouts (their final one lost on an ill-advised spot challenge by coach Mike Singletary), the Packers were able to go into the victory formation and take 3 kneel-downs by Aaron Rodgers to run out the clock.
This game was a tale of two halves. Something you'd prefer not to see. But the bottom line is the "W".
Rodgers finished with a career high 32 completions out of 45 attempts for 326 yards with 2 TDs. Ryan Grant finished with 129 yards rushing on 21 carries for a 6.1 yards-per-carry average.
The Packers are 6-4 going into the Turkey Day game at Detroit. If the Packers are able to do what they should be able to do (although we said that about Tampa, too, didn't we?) they can be 7-4 coming out of that game and going into an extended rest before the Monday night game against the Ravens at Lambeau on December 7.
You just pray the injuries to Kampan and Harris aren't season-ending, as that would be a major blow to the defense. No matter, they would still likely be held out of the the game with the Lions to give them plenty of time to heal.
In the meantime, say it with me...Go Pack Go!!!
In the 3rd quarter, the Niners scored their first TD of the day on a 38-yard pass play from Alex Smith to Michael Crabtree over Al Harris, to make the score 23-10. The Packers got their only TD of the 2nd half with about 11 minutes to go in the 4th quarter, after a sequence that included: a punt by the Packers downed at the 2-yard line, followed by Smith throwing out of his end zone and getting picked off at about the 20 by Nick Collins who returned it to the 11, after which Rodgers connected on a 3rd down pass with Jermichael Finley for a 1st down inside the 1 yard line...Ryan Grant picked up a rushing TD and in the process went over 100 yards rushing for the game...whew!
That made the score 30-10 Packers.
But just when you thought it was safe, the Packers not-so-special teams once again let the opponent right back in the game by giving up a roughly 76-yard kickoff return. On the first play, Al Harris went down in the end zone, away from the play after apparently planting his foot and collapsing. He was in obvious pain and was taken off the field on a cart for X-rays; Aaron Kampan had earlier been carted off the field after also sustaining a knee injury. (In his post-game meeting with the media, head coach Mike McCarthy said both looked serious but until he gets further evaluation it's not possible to say how long either player might be out.) Two plays later, Smith connected on his second TD pass of the day to make the score 30-17. The Packers found themselves unable to sustain any drive and rather quickly returned the ball to the Niners. Fighting the clock, the Niners continued to both protect Alex Smith and allow him to connect with his receivers. On a 4th-and-5 from the Packers' 10-yard line, Smith hit RB Frank Gore on a short pass which he took into the end zone to make the score 30-24 Packers with just under 6 minutes remaining in the game.
The Packers, courtesy of a couple big and crucial runs by Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson were able to keep the ball and take the clock down to the 2 minute warning. With the 49ers out of timeouts (their final one lost on an ill-advised spot challenge by coach Mike Singletary), the Packers were able to go into the victory formation and take 3 kneel-downs by Aaron Rodgers to run out the clock.
This game was a tale of two halves. Something you'd prefer not to see. But the bottom line is the "W".
Rodgers finished with a career high 32 completions out of 45 attempts for 326 yards with 2 TDs. Ryan Grant finished with 129 yards rushing on 21 carries for a 6.1 yards-per-carry average.
The Packers are 6-4 going into the Turkey Day game at Detroit. If the Packers are able to do what they should be able to do (although we said that about Tampa, too, didn't we?) they can be 7-4 coming out of that game and going into an extended rest before the Monday night game against the Ravens at Lambeau on December 7.
You just pray the injuries to Kampan and Harris aren't season-ending, as that would be a major blow to the defense. No matter, they would still likely be held out of the the game with the Lions to give them plenty of time to heal.
In the meantime, say it with me...Go Pack Go!!!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Do the Packers players get it now?
With the youngest squad in the NFL for the fourth consecutive year, some analysts have wondered whether or not the youngsters understand the need to win now...that you can be playing today and out of the game tomorrow...that there is only today in the NFL. Old timers such as Charles Woodson, Donald Driver, Mark Tauscher, Ahman Green and Chad Clifton get it. The kids? Maybe not so much.
But perhaps that's about to change. Apparently after watching film of the Tampa Bay debacle on Monday, the offensive players had, as guard Daryn Colledge put it, "a come-to-Jesus meeting." According to at least one report, "With the coaches still in the room, the veteran leaders on offense, one by one, took turns addressing the rest of the unit...According to players who were in the room, Rodgers, tackle Mark Tauscher and receiver Donald Driver were the most powerful speakers."
While generally positive in tone, emphasizing what the squad is doing well -- they are ranked as the #7 offense, after all -- some blunt words were also spoken, so much so that word travelled quickly to the defensive unit and was received as a positive sign.
You can read more of the details via the link above.
Now, whether words alone can correct the plethora of mistakes that have plagued the Pack so far this season remains to be seen. But the Packers are apparently focused on this game versus the Cowboys in a way perhaps they haven't been yet this season for any other game...maybe not even the ViQueens games. In his news briefing with the media yesterday, Head Coach Mike McCarthy said, "Our message is very clear. The head coach has to coach better, the coaches have to coach better, the players have to play better, and we have to win games. That's our focus. We're going to apply all of our energy into this Dallas game plan. ... That's about as far down the road as we're looking. We're going to pour everything that we have into winning at home against the Cowboys. That's our focus." If you were to see footage of this statement you'd know this is about as serious as you'd ever see Mike McCarthy. Clearly, he is feeling the heat and knows that if things don't turn around and fast he could be on his way out.
Unfortunately, the injury bug seems to be biting the Packers at an inopportune time. RT Mark Tauscher is still questionable for Sunday and Allen Barbre also now has an injury which required rookie T. J. Lang to shift over from the left side to the right for the first time in practice. On the defensive side of things, not only is Aaron Kampman still questionable with his concussion, but Brady Popinga, who had replaced Kampman, is also injured. That means either rookie Brad Jones or second-year player Jeremy Thompson might get the start at outside linebacker.
So, another offensive line shuffle against a very good defense, and perhaps some new starters in key positions on the defense. Going against a team on a 4-game win streak. Yikes.
The team hasn't done anything to this point in the season to give fans confidence they can beat a good team. And after the game Sunday, we don't even have confidence about beating a horrible team. Depending upon what spread source you are looking at the game is either a toss up (really???) or the Cowboys are favored by 3 as of the time of this posting.
We'll just have to wait to see if the players got religion this week and saved their season or if the descent into the Inferno of football mediocrity continues.
Stay tuned...
But perhaps that's about to change. Apparently after watching film of the Tampa Bay debacle on Monday, the offensive players had, as guard Daryn Colledge put it, "a come-to-Jesus meeting." According to at least one report, "With the coaches still in the room, the veteran leaders on offense, one by one, took turns addressing the rest of the unit...According to players who were in the room, Rodgers, tackle Mark Tauscher and receiver Donald Driver were the most powerful speakers."
While generally positive in tone, emphasizing what the squad is doing well -- they are ranked as the #7 offense, after all -- some blunt words were also spoken, so much so that word travelled quickly to the defensive unit and was received as a positive sign.
You can read more of the details via the link above.
Now, whether words alone can correct the plethora of mistakes that have plagued the Pack so far this season remains to be seen. But the Packers are apparently focused on this game versus the Cowboys in a way perhaps they haven't been yet this season for any other game...maybe not even the ViQueens games. In his news briefing with the media yesterday, Head Coach Mike McCarthy said, "Our message is very clear. The head coach has to coach better, the coaches have to coach better, the players have to play better, and we have to win games. That's our focus. We're going to apply all of our energy into this Dallas game plan. ... That's about as far down the road as we're looking. We're going to pour everything that we have into winning at home against the Cowboys. That's our focus." If you were to see footage of this statement you'd know this is about as serious as you'd ever see Mike McCarthy. Clearly, he is feeling the heat and knows that if things don't turn around and fast he could be on his way out.
Unfortunately, the injury bug seems to be biting the Packers at an inopportune time. RT Mark Tauscher is still questionable for Sunday and Allen Barbre also now has an injury which required rookie T. J. Lang to shift over from the left side to the right for the first time in practice. On the defensive side of things, not only is Aaron Kampman still questionable with his concussion, but Brady Popinga, who had replaced Kampman, is also injured. That means either rookie Brad Jones or second-year player Jeremy Thompson might get the start at outside linebacker.
So, another offensive line shuffle against a very good defense, and perhaps some new starters in key positions on the defense. Going against a team on a 4-game win streak. Yikes.
The team hasn't done anything to this point in the season to give fans confidence they can beat a good team. And after the game Sunday, we don't even have confidence about beating a horrible team. Depending upon what spread source you are looking at the game is either a toss up (really???) or the Cowboys are favored by 3 as of the time of this posting.
We'll just have to wait to see if the players got religion this week and saved their season or if the descent into the Inferno of football mediocrity continues.
Stay tuned...
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Packer woes
Just what the Packers needed: playing the Cowboys without Aaron Kampman. Turns out he got smacked in the jaw early in the Tampa Bay game and wound up with a small concussion. He played a good portion of the game, but as of yesterday was still feeling the effects. Kampman told reporters that he was just taking it day by day. Whether he's available for the game this Sunday against the Cowboys or not remains to be seen.
In addition to Kampman's questionable status, RT Mark Tauscher might also be out for the Cowboy's game. Tauscher, playing in his first game in almost a year, twisted the same knee that had been surgically repaired. Looks as if he may be sitting out this weekend. And that means yet another reshuffling across what is arguably one of the worst offensive lines in football at the moment. Get ready for yet more sacks on QB Aaron Rodgers.
There's a good recap article of the current state of affairs on the player and coaching front in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. You can check it out here.
In addition to Kampman's questionable status, RT Mark Tauscher might also be out for the Cowboy's game. Tauscher, playing in his first game in almost a year, twisted the same knee that had been surgically repaired. Looks as if he may be sitting out this weekend. And that means yet another reshuffling across what is arguably one of the worst offensive lines in football at the moment. Get ready for yet more sacks on QB Aaron Rodgers.
There's a good recap article of the current state of affairs on the player and coaching front in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. You can check it out here.
Monday, November 09, 2009
Packer fans united...and disgusted
The post-game call-in shows are brutal, the sports columns are dripping venom, and the blogs are ripping new you-know-whats all over the place.
In brief, Packer fans are united in disgust at where the Packers are halfway through this NFL season. And the tipping point for fan outrage was yesterday's loss to Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay! Great Ceasar's Ghost!
In what has to rank as one of the worst coaching performances in Packers' history, Head Coach Mike McCarthy and staff snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Showing a total inability to inspire a team to victory and correct mistakes that now go back a year-and-a-half, McCarthy at least had the honesty to tell reporters that the loss was on him. Well, at least you got that call correct, coach.
Some fans are beginning to make comparisons between the increasingly apparent coaching ineptitude of Coach McCarthy with that of the Bart Starr era (who, let's also say, was one of the great quarterbacks to ever play the game...just wasn't able to carry that over to coaching). That era began a long slide into the football netherworld for the franchise. The fear of many fans at this point is this: are we once again on the edge of a football abyss? The Ted Thompson haters in the crowd have been saying "yes" for some time because of personnel moves. Now, many fans are pointing the finger (which one, we won't say) at the coaching staff and saying "yes" as well.
The coaching staff's failures to address ongoing problems and witness them repeated week after mind-numbing week, is one element of this dissatisfaction. Failure to apparently make players accountable for their mistakes is another. Failure to put players in a position to succeed -- ala Aaron Kampman being taken totally out of his capabilities -- is yet one more. And special teams? Coach Shawn Slocum should be shown the door.
At least one of the Wisconsin sports pundits said that after yesterday's loss McCarthy is "on the clock." Fans shouldn't expect McCarthy to be booted during the season. But if the Packers don't make the playoffs -- which was a clear expectation going into the season -- and finish .500 or below (which looks like a distinct possibility at this point), McCarthy could be -- should be -- out.
Would Packers CEO Mark Murphy pull the trigger and also boot GM Ted Thompson at season's end? That's a bigger question. But it will also have to be addressed. Thompson's theory of building a team through the draft is one thing. Having the youngest team in the NFL four years in a row is another. Being fiscally responsible and having money available to sign free agents is one thing. Not using any of the nearly $20 million in cap room to sign free agents that could help improve a team is another.
There are no more loyal fans in football than Packer fans. That's because we know the game. And that's why the outcry about the current state of affairs is getting louder and louder. We expect more from players, coaches and the GM than we are getting.
Ahman Green gets the rushing record
Lost in yesterday's debacle was the fact that RB Ahman Green surpassed the great Jim Taylor's franchise rushing record of 8,207 yards which had lasted since 1966. Congrats to Ahman.
In brief, Packer fans are united in disgust at where the Packers are halfway through this NFL season. And the tipping point for fan outrage was yesterday's loss to Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay! Great Ceasar's Ghost!
In what has to rank as one of the worst coaching performances in Packers' history, Head Coach Mike McCarthy and staff snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Showing a total inability to inspire a team to victory and correct mistakes that now go back a year-and-a-half, McCarthy at least had the honesty to tell reporters that the loss was on him. Well, at least you got that call correct, coach.
Some fans are beginning to make comparisons between the increasingly apparent coaching ineptitude of Coach McCarthy with that of the Bart Starr era (who, let's also say, was one of the great quarterbacks to ever play the game...just wasn't able to carry that over to coaching). That era began a long slide into the football netherworld for the franchise. The fear of many fans at this point is this: are we once again on the edge of a football abyss? The Ted Thompson haters in the crowd have been saying "yes" for some time because of personnel moves. Now, many fans are pointing the finger (which one, we won't say) at the coaching staff and saying "yes" as well.
The coaching staff's failures to address ongoing problems and witness them repeated week after mind-numbing week, is one element of this dissatisfaction. Failure to apparently make players accountable for their mistakes is another. Failure to put players in a position to succeed -- ala Aaron Kampman being taken totally out of his capabilities -- is yet one more. And special teams? Coach Shawn Slocum should be shown the door.
At least one of the Wisconsin sports pundits said that after yesterday's loss McCarthy is "on the clock." Fans shouldn't expect McCarthy to be booted during the season. But if the Packers don't make the playoffs -- which was a clear expectation going into the season -- and finish .500 or below (which looks like a distinct possibility at this point), McCarthy could be -- should be -- out.
Would Packers CEO Mark Murphy pull the trigger and also boot GM Ted Thompson at season's end? That's a bigger question. But it will also have to be addressed. Thompson's theory of building a team through the draft is one thing. Having the youngest team in the NFL four years in a row is another. Being fiscally responsible and having money available to sign free agents is one thing. Not using any of the nearly $20 million in cap room to sign free agents that could help improve a team is another.
There are no more loyal fans in football than Packer fans. That's because we know the game. And that's why the outcry about the current state of affairs is getting louder and louder. We expect more from players, coaches and the GM than we are getting.
Ahman Green gets the rushing record
Lost in yesterday's debacle was the fact that RB Ahman Green surpassed the great Jim Taylor's franchise rushing record of 8,207 yards which had lasted since 1966. Congrats to Ahman.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Packers - ViQueens Game 2 Preview
Perhaps this post should be subtitled, "The Day the Earth Stood Still: Brett Favre Returns to Lambeau Field." Others have taken to calling this day Favre-a-Palooza and Favreaggedon. OK, headbanging...yes, the ultimate end-times battle...um, no. Sure, the game will likely be another ratings winner for Fox Sports. They are supposedly going to even new lengths to hype this game via a "Favre cam," a camera dedicated to following Favre all over the field, including the sidelines.
The question which has dominated Wisconsin sports media all week, both print and broadcast, has been how the fans will react -- should react -- when Ol' #4 enters the playing field. The growing consensus seems to be that, as there will be no individual introductions of ViQueens players, fans should -- as they usually do -- boo vociferously the entire 'Queens team, including Favre, when they enter onto the Frozen Tundra. Yes. Definitely. And, just as vociferously, cheer the Pack -- and especially, Aaron Rodgers -- when the players are introduced.
On ESPN, the pundits discussed how Favre will handle the game. Favre admits to being nervous. Not surprising. Tom Jackson said Favre's comments about his current team being the best he's ever played on -- and thus disrespecting the Reggie White-led Super Bowl teams -- really left fans with a bad taste in their mouths (paraphrasing)...as if there wasn't a bad taste there before.
Former Packers LeRoy Butler and Gilbert Brown spoke to the Favre situation and comments recently as well. Butler said "If you're not in Green 'n' Gold then I don't root for you." Brown, speaking to Favre's "best team" comment on ESPN radio earlier this week, said Jared Allen "couldn't hold Reggie White's jockstrap." Gilbert always did have a way with words. When asked if he would look forward to sacking Favre if he had the chance, he said he would definitely do so. "I wouldn't do the 'Grave Digger' on him (Brown's post-sack celebration move) but I would fart on him." Thank you, Gilbert. May we have another?
Anyway, lots of verbal banter on both sides of things. But to the Packers' players credit, they just seem focused on the task at hand. And well they should. If they beat the 'Queens today they go to 5-2 on the season and travel to Tampa Bay for what is expected to be another win next weekend, taking them to 6-2. The 'Queens, on the other hand, with a loss today will be 6-2 with their bye week coming up. Thus, the Packers and ViQueens could essentially be all tied up 2 weeks from now. That's if the Pack wins today.
The bottom line today
The spread is the Pack by 3, the old home field advantage line. The teams are a little different than when playing a few weeks ago. The Packers are arguably a bit deeper, especially on the offensive line and defensive backfield. The ViQueens are arguably a bit weaker, particularly in the defensive backfield and at receiver. The Packers need to reprise the great defensive job they did on 'Queens RB Adrian Peterson.
But they need to find a way to get pressure on Favre. Interesting stat: the Packers blitzed on just 16.7% of passes in the first meeting in Minnesota and the results, as we know, were not good; you can't give Favre time to throw. Last Sunday in their game at Pittsburgh, the Steelers blitzed Minnesota an estimated 60% of the time. Result? Steelers got to Favre and got a win. It's a definite balancing act for Packers defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. S Atari Bigby was out for the Pack last time around and there were major communication breakdowns in the defensive backfield. It's been bandied about that that was one of the main reasons Capers didn't blitz more in that game: he just didn't trust the backup safety, Derrick Martin, to be in proper cover positions. But Bigby's back. LB Aaron Kampman has begun playing some down pass rush positions and getting to the QB like the good ol' days. Rookie LB Clay Matthews shows he knows how to create some problems. If ever there was a time when the defense can show that the last couple games against mediocre opponents weren't just flukes, this is it.
I think the offensive line will help Ryan Grant -- and maybe even Ahman Green -- to get some runs going; that will help the passing game. I believe that they will do a better job protecting Aaron Rodgers. And I believe the Packers defense will do enough to keep Peterson and Favre in check.
Favre is wearing that funky purple. As Michael Corleone in The Godfather II told his brother Fredo after a betrayal, and we can say to Favre (until the time he returns in his retirement glory to Green Bay, of course): "You're dead to me. You're nothing to me now; you're not a brother, you're not a friend; I don't want to know you or what you do." Boo every time Favre touches the ball. Let him hear the wrath of Lambeau and Lombardi!
It will be a close one, as most of these games are. The home field advantage will count for a lot today. In fact, it might just be the difference.
We're drinking the Green 'n' Gold kool-aid again, Packers fans. We can do no less. Packers 20 - ViQueens 17.
Go Pack Go!!!
The question which has dominated Wisconsin sports media all week, both print and broadcast, has been how the fans will react -- should react -- when Ol' #4 enters the playing field. The growing consensus seems to be that, as there will be no individual introductions of ViQueens players, fans should -- as they usually do -- boo vociferously the entire 'Queens team, including Favre, when they enter onto the Frozen Tundra. Yes. Definitely. And, just as vociferously, cheer the Pack -- and especially, Aaron Rodgers -- when the players are introduced.
On ESPN, the pundits discussed how Favre will handle the game. Favre admits to being nervous. Not surprising. Tom Jackson said Favre's comments about his current team being the best he's ever played on -- and thus disrespecting the Reggie White-led Super Bowl teams -- really left fans with a bad taste in their mouths (paraphrasing)...as if there wasn't a bad taste there before.
Former Packers LeRoy Butler and Gilbert Brown spoke to the Favre situation and comments recently as well. Butler said "If you're not in Green 'n' Gold then I don't root for you." Brown, speaking to Favre's "best team" comment on ESPN radio earlier this week, said Jared Allen "couldn't hold Reggie White's jockstrap." Gilbert always did have a way with words. When asked if he would look forward to sacking Favre if he had the chance, he said he would definitely do so. "I wouldn't do the 'Grave Digger' on him (Brown's post-sack celebration move) but I would fart on him." Thank you, Gilbert. May we have another?
Anyway, lots of verbal banter on both sides of things. But to the Packers' players credit, they just seem focused on the task at hand. And well they should. If they beat the 'Queens today they go to 5-2 on the season and travel to Tampa Bay for what is expected to be another win next weekend, taking them to 6-2. The 'Queens, on the other hand, with a loss today will be 6-2 with their bye week coming up. Thus, the Packers and ViQueens could essentially be all tied up 2 weeks from now. That's if the Pack wins today.
The bottom line today
The spread is the Pack by 3, the old home field advantage line. The teams are a little different than when playing a few weeks ago. The Packers are arguably a bit deeper, especially on the offensive line and defensive backfield. The ViQueens are arguably a bit weaker, particularly in the defensive backfield and at receiver. The Packers need to reprise the great defensive job they did on 'Queens RB Adrian Peterson.
But they need to find a way to get pressure on Favre. Interesting stat: the Packers blitzed on just 16.7% of passes in the first meeting in Minnesota and the results, as we know, were not good; you can't give Favre time to throw. Last Sunday in their game at Pittsburgh, the Steelers blitzed Minnesota an estimated 60% of the time. Result? Steelers got to Favre and got a win. It's a definite balancing act for Packers defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. S Atari Bigby was out for the Pack last time around and there were major communication breakdowns in the defensive backfield. It's been bandied about that that was one of the main reasons Capers didn't blitz more in that game: he just didn't trust the backup safety, Derrick Martin, to be in proper cover positions. But Bigby's back. LB Aaron Kampman has begun playing some down pass rush positions and getting to the QB like the good ol' days. Rookie LB Clay Matthews shows he knows how to create some problems. If ever there was a time when the defense can show that the last couple games against mediocre opponents weren't just flukes, this is it.
I think the offensive line will help Ryan Grant -- and maybe even Ahman Green -- to get some runs going; that will help the passing game. I believe that they will do a better job protecting Aaron Rodgers. And I believe the Packers defense will do enough to keep Peterson and Favre in check.
Favre is wearing that funky purple. As Michael Corleone in The Godfather II told his brother Fredo after a betrayal, and we can say to Favre (until the time he returns in his retirement glory to Green Bay, of course): "You're dead to me. You're nothing to me now; you're not a brother, you're not a friend; I don't want to know you or what you do." Boo every time Favre touches the ball. Let him hear the wrath of Lambeau and Lombardi!
It will be a close one, as most of these games are. The home field advantage will count for a lot today. In fact, it might just be the difference.
We're drinking the Green 'n' Gold kool-aid again, Packers fans. We can do no less. Packers 20 - ViQueens 17.
Go Pack Go!!!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Boy, are we spoiled, Packer fans
You'd think that after a win -- a win at home, a win against a divisional opponent, a win that is a shutout -- that we Packer fans would be reveling in yesterday's victory. Well, yes and no.
Definitely, it's always a good thing to get a "W" (political references aside, please). So why the kvetching (look it up)? Just review the posts from yesterday as the game went on: penalties, sacks, missed opportunities, redzone failures, no running game. We'll get back to all this in a moment.
Let's not forget the positives:
And if that doesn't do you in, check out Bill Michaels' blog, also at 620WTMJ. He takes on the Packers' sloppiness, penalties in particular, as now a multi-year problem under head coach Mike McCarthy. Check out this tidbit: "Mike McCarthy’s 'We’ll clean that up' phrase has now fallen upon deaf ears. To be honest, I’m beginning to question McCarthy’s capabilities as a head coach. There have been numerous moments that bring me to this more definitive doubt today but an undisciplined team, coming out of a break in which there was supposed to be a staunch concentration on 'cleaning up' the mental errors, leads me to believe that Mike McCarthy doesn’t have the ability, discipline capability or respect to fix the problems that have plagued this team for the last few years." Ouch! Check out the rest of what Michaels has to say here.
The Pack may get away with this kind of sloppiness against their next opponent, Cleveland. However, making these same bonehead mistakes against the next team to visit Lambeau -- that would be the ViQueens and Ol' #4 (as a popular T-shirt says, "We'll never forget you, Brent") -- will be a sure formula for a loss.
So, be happy with the victory. And pray for improvement.
Definitely, it's always a good thing to get a "W" (political references aside, please). So why the kvetching (look it up)? Just review the posts from yesterday as the game went on: penalties, sacks, missed opportunities, redzone failures, no running game. We'll get back to all this in a moment.
Let's not forget the positives:
- Donald Driver becoming the all-time Packers leader in receptions, surpassing Sterling Sharpe. Not bad for a 7th round draft pick who caught a grand total of 3 passes in his first season. Congratulations, Donald. Packers Hall of Fame here you come!
- Aaron Rodgers passing for 358 yards.
- Clay Matthews getting his first start at linebacker and making big plays in the process.
- Aaron Kampman working occasionally from the down linemen position and looking like his old sack-meister self.
- Mason Crosby nailing 4 field goals (OK, that was the Pack settling but give credit where it's due).
- The entire defensive unit staying focused and pitching a shutout.
And if that doesn't do you in, check out Bill Michaels' blog, also at 620WTMJ. He takes on the Packers' sloppiness, penalties in particular, as now a multi-year problem under head coach Mike McCarthy. Check out this tidbit: "Mike McCarthy’s 'We’ll clean that up' phrase has now fallen upon deaf ears. To be honest, I’m beginning to question McCarthy’s capabilities as a head coach. There have been numerous moments that bring me to this more definitive doubt today but an undisciplined team, coming out of a break in which there was supposed to be a staunch concentration on 'cleaning up' the mental errors, leads me to believe that Mike McCarthy doesn’t have the ability, discipline capability or respect to fix the problems that have plagued this team for the last few years." Ouch! Check out the rest of what Michaels has to say here.
The Pack may get away with this kind of sloppiness against their next opponent, Cleveland. However, making these same bonehead mistakes against the next team to visit Lambeau -- that would be the ViQueens and Ol' #4 (as a popular T-shirt says, "We'll never forget you, Brent") -- will be a sure formula for a loss.
So, be happy with the victory. And pray for improvement.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Packers OTAs notes
The news coming out of Green Bay during the first part of the Packers organized team activities (OTAs) has been a bit sparse. I guess no news is good news. No major injuries. No big contract hassles (at least, yet). So we have to get our bits and pieces where we can.
The Green Bay Press-Gazette is often a good source for the latest goings on when other sources seem a bit too quiet.
So, here's a quick review in case you need a little Packers fix as we begin the month of June.
Jeremy Thompson or Clay Matthews?
While the assumption has been that rookie Clay Matthews will be the starter at right outside LB, second-year player Jeremy Thompson is excited by the change to the 3-4 defense and the opportunity it is giving him to make the change from defensive end to linebacker. As the Press-Gazette article points out, until Matthews Thompson was the only player Packers GM Ted Thompson had traded up to draft: "Ted Thompson sent a fifth-round pick to the New York Jets in order to move up 11 spots in the fourth round to take the defensive end from Wake Forest." But more importantly, especially for Thompson (that would be Jeremy, not Ted), "Instead of backing up left outside linebacker Aaron Kampman, Thompson worked as the starter on the right side during organized team activities that began last week." Granted, Matthews currently has a hamstring injury, but Thompson "was working ahead of Matthews even before the rookie pulled his hamstring near the end of the first practice last Wednesday." Anyway, read more about this linebacking competition here.
Harrell, Harrell, wherefore art thou, Harrell?
Actually, third-year player and injury magnet Justin Harrell has been present and accounted for all during OTAs and, apparently, doing well. Quoting defensive line coach Mike Trgovac, the Press-Gazette reports, “He’s been very focused. He has a look about him that he wants to succeed. He’s working extremely hard.” According to Harrell, he's feeling the best he has been since being in GB. Given his injury history, however, that might be a hard thing to judge. In addition, the young man -- whom all reports from the get-go have said is the type of guy you really want to root for -- is battling a weight issue currently. Still, Harrell realizes this is a do-or-die year for him with the Packers. As the #16 pick overall three seasons ago, Harrell has been a bust. But Trgovac and the new coaching staff also is giving him a fresh start. "He’s done everything we’ve asked him to do. I know he’s had injuries in the past, but we haven’t seen them,” Trgovac is quoted as saying. Read more about Harrell here. At this point, if Harrell is able to get through the season uninjured and make contributions at all it will be a bonus that not many -- at least not many fans -- expected. If he can't stay healthy, Harrell will be out of chances and will remain the albatross around Ted Thompson's neck.
And what about Mr. Kampman?
One of the big mysteries of the offseason was and is how DE Aaron Kampman felt about making the switch to outside linebacker. Ordinarily, Kampman was very open with the media. But he hasn't been talking about this switch, which has led some to assume that he is not a happy Packer. Well, he spoke yesterday with the media in the locker room. Still didn't say much. And what he did say is hard to get a read on.
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel provides the necessary quotes from Kampan: "New techniques. New terminology. All in all, it's learning the new system. It's all new." And . . ."I'm one of 11 in this defense. . . . This is a big transition for everyone. For whatever reason a lot of people want to know what I think." And . . ."I'm learning it. I don't have a whole lot else to say. I'm learning it."
So...is he happy? You decide. Kampan's a pro, a Pro Bowler to be exact. He was the best pass rusher the Packers have had over the last few seasons. Can he make the move? Coach McCarthy told the press that Kampman has been working very hard at learning the new position and scheme, as you'd expect of him. He's been working closely with new linebackers coach, Kevin Greene. And, as radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee, said on 620WTMJ radio this morning, if anyone can assure Kampman of the possibility of making the switch effectively, it's Greene who himself had been a successful defensive end before being asking to also make the switch to linebacker...where he achieved perhaps even greater success later in his career. Good point. They are two different players, granted. But it has to be encouraging for Kampman to be able to tap into someone like Greene who can assure him that it can be done because he did too.
You can read another take on the Kampman situation -- as well as the non-story about Donald Driver's supposed desire for a new contract -- here.
And how's Mr. Rodgers doin'?
According to reports, QB Aaron Rodgers is looking just fine, thank you. He's looked very sharp in the OTA practices. And perhaps just importantly, he -- and his teammates -- know clearly that this is his team. After racking up the numbers he did last year, Rodgers clearly established himself as one of the best QBs (at least for his first season as a starter) in the league. The number of wins didn't reflect that performance, although that was more a result of the defensive collapses than Rodgers ability or lack thereof. If you want a quick update on Rodgers, check out this article.
So...is this enough to help you get your fix for the moment? If not, keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com. There will be more...as regular readers (that's you, isn't it???) know very well.
The Green Bay Press-Gazette is often a good source for the latest goings on when other sources seem a bit too quiet.
So, here's a quick review in case you need a little Packers fix as we begin the month of June.
Jeremy Thompson or Clay Matthews?
While the assumption has been that rookie Clay Matthews will be the starter at right outside LB, second-year player Jeremy Thompson is excited by the change to the 3-4 defense and the opportunity it is giving him to make the change from defensive end to linebacker. As the Press-Gazette article points out, until Matthews Thompson was the only player Packers GM Ted Thompson had traded up to draft: "Ted Thompson sent a fifth-round pick to the New York Jets in order to move up 11 spots in the fourth round to take the defensive end from Wake Forest." But more importantly, especially for Thompson (that would be Jeremy, not Ted), "Instead of backing up left outside linebacker Aaron Kampman, Thompson worked as the starter on the right side during organized team activities that began last week." Granted, Matthews currently has a hamstring injury, but Thompson "was working ahead of Matthews even before the rookie pulled his hamstring near the end of the first practice last Wednesday." Anyway, read more about this linebacking competition here.
Harrell, Harrell, wherefore art thou, Harrell?
Actually, third-year player and injury magnet Justin Harrell has been present and accounted for all during OTAs and, apparently, doing well. Quoting defensive line coach Mike Trgovac, the Press-Gazette reports, “He’s been very focused. He has a look about him that he wants to succeed. He’s working extremely hard.” According to Harrell, he's feeling the best he has been since being in GB. Given his injury history, however, that might be a hard thing to judge. In addition, the young man -- whom all reports from the get-go have said is the type of guy you really want to root for -- is battling a weight issue currently. Still, Harrell realizes this is a do-or-die year for him with the Packers. As the #16 pick overall three seasons ago, Harrell has been a bust. But Trgovac and the new coaching staff also is giving him a fresh start. "He’s done everything we’ve asked him to do. I know he’s had injuries in the past, but we haven’t seen them,” Trgovac is quoted as saying. Read more about Harrell here. At this point, if Harrell is able to get through the season uninjured and make contributions at all it will be a bonus that not many -- at least not many fans -- expected. If he can't stay healthy, Harrell will be out of chances and will remain the albatross around Ted Thompson's neck.
And what about Mr. Kampman?
One of the big mysteries of the offseason was and is how DE Aaron Kampman felt about making the switch to outside linebacker. Ordinarily, Kampman was very open with the media. But he hasn't been talking about this switch, which has led some to assume that he is not a happy Packer. Well, he spoke yesterday with the media in the locker room. Still didn't say much. And what he did say is hard to get a read on.
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel provides the necessary quotes from Kampan: "New techniques. New terminology. All in all, it's learning the new system. It's all new." And . . ."I'm one of 11 in this defense. . . . This is a big transition for everyone. For whatever reason a lot of people want to know what I think." And . . ."I'm learning it. I don't have a whole lot else to say. I'm learning it."
So...is he happy? You decide. Kampan's a pro, a Pro Bowler to be exact. He was the best pass rusher the Packers have had over the last few seasons. Can he make the move? Coach McCarthy told the press that Kampman has been working very hard at learning the new position and scheme, as you'd expect of him. He's been working closely with new linebackers coach, Kevin Greene. And, as radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee, said on 620WTMJ radio this morning, if anyone can assure Kampman of the possibility of making the switch effectively, it's Greene who himself had been a successful defensive end before being asking to also make the switch to linebacker...where he achieved perhaps even greater success later in his career. Good point. They are two different players, granted. But it has to be encouraging for Kampman to be able to tap into someone like Greene who can assure him that it can be done because he did too.
You can read another take on the Kampman situation -- as well as the non-story about Donald Driver's supposed desire for a new contract -- here.
And how's Mr. Rodgers doin'?
According to reports, QB Aaron Rodgers is looking just fine, thank you. He's looked very sharp in the OTA practices. And perhaps just importantly, he -- and his teammates -- know clearly that this is his team. After racking up the numbers he did last year, Rodgers clearly established himself as one of the best QBs (at least for his first season as a starter) in the league. The number of wins didn't reflect that performance, although that was more a result of the defensive collapses than Rodgers ability or lack thereof. If you want a quick update on Rodgers, check out this article.
So...is this enough to help you get your fix for the moment? If not, keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com. There will be more...as regular readers (that's you, isn't it???) know very well.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Packers Fan Fest notes
The Fifth Annual Packers Fan Fest took place yesterday and today at the Lambeau Field Atrium. And, perhaps for the first time, it was not a sell-out. Management, players and fans all attributed that rare circumstance to the current economic situation.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
OK, this is not good...
So, the Pack has $30 million in salary cap room and any attempt to bolster a thin defensive line through quality free agent help has seemingly vanished as the few available top candidates signed elsewhere. Which leaves the Pack with basically Ryan Pickett, Johnny Jolly, Cullen Jenkins, Aaron Kampman and Justin Harrell (well, he's on the roster anyway) as the defensive line. How and why the Pack didn't seriously go after help to bolster what was already the weak link in last year's defense is a mystery. Granted, both the Redskins and Giants threw a boatload of money at Albert Haynesworth and Chris Canty, respectively. And, probably to most people's way of thinking, overpaid. Certainly this was Packer GM Ted Thompson's point of view, who is never one to throw away money. That was also the case with Colin Cole, whom the Packers lost via free agency to Seattle. While Cole was starting to finally make an impact, with $6 million of guaranteed contract money, Seattle definitely overpaid.
The problem is, that established the market. And there weren't that many quality free agent defensive linemen available to begin with. Reportedly, the Pack has had some discussions with the agents for San Diego's Igor Olshansky, Baltimore's Marques Douglas and New England's Mike Wright, but nothing firm. In fact, other reports were circulating yesterday that Olshanksy had come to terms with Houston.
So where does this leave the Pack? Apparently shifting gears and looking for a safety instead. Go figure.
Check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel for more on that approach, as well as a few other free agent possibilities.
Bottom line is that unless somehow the Pack captures lightening in a bottle with one of the middle-of-the-road or over-the-hill free agents still on the market, or gets lucky with a draft pick, new defensive coordinator Dom Capers is going to have to be very creative with his schemes. Because right now, the Pack's defensive line situation is looking precarious at best.
The problem is, that established the market. And there weren't that many quality free agent defensive linemen available to begin with. Reportedly, the Pack has had some discussions with the agents for San Diego's Igor Olshansky, Baltimore's Marques Douglas and New England's Mike Wright, but nothing firm. In fact, other reports were circulating yesterday that Olshanksy had come to terms with Houston.
So where does this leave the Pack? Apparently shifting gears and looking for a safety instead. Go figure.
Check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel for more on that approach, as well as a few other free agent possibilities.
Bottom line is that unless somehow the Pack captures lightening in a bottle with one of the middle-of-the-road or over-the-hill free agents still on the market, or gets lucky with a draft pick, new defensive coordinator Dom Capers is going to have to be very creative with his schemes. Because right now, the Pack's defensive line situation is looking precarious at best.
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Packers miss out on Canty, lose Cole
The Packers, somewhat contrary to form, had publicly expressed some interest in Cowboys free agent defensive end, Chris Canty. At 6'7" and a tad over 300 pounds, he would have been a good addition for the Pack's new 3-4 scheme. Well, the Pack can now go back to form: Canty reportedly has signed 6-year, $42 million deal with the NY Giants.
Moving right along...
One of the the Packers' own that they hoped to hang on to, defensive lineman Colin Cole, has reportedly signed a 5 year, $21.5 million deal with Seattle. The loss of Cole hurts what was already a thin defensive line. The Pack had thought that if they couldn't resign Cole they could make a strong run at Canty. Not if you believe the report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, which is showing the Newark Star-Ledger as the news source, and a supposed confirmation from one of those ubiquitous "NFL sources."
The quality free agents who could help the Packers upfront in the new 3-4 scheme is now falling off rather considerably. The Pack may now wind up having to hope that Ryan Pickett and Johnny Jolly can rotate to hold the point of attack, along with somehow getting a bookend of some kind to Aaron Kampman.
Cole was just starting to come on as a real player and losing him is a definite blow. And not even being able to have a face to face with Canty before he agreed to terms with the Giants is also disappointing. It will be interesting to see what Ted Thompson does now with the $30 million in salary cap room he's sitting on.
Moving right along...
One of the the Packers' own that they hoped to hang on to, defensive lineman Colin Cole, has reportedly signed a 5 year, $21.5 million deal with Seattle. The loss of Cole hurts what was already a thin defensive line. The Pack had thought that if they couldn't resign Cole they could make a strong run at Canty. Not if you believe the report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, which is showing the Newark Star-Ledger as the news source, and a supposed confirmation from one of those ubiquitous "NFL sources."
The quality free agents who could help the Packers upfront in the new 3-4 scheme is now falling off rather considerably. The Pack may now wind up having to hope that Ryan Pickett and Johnny Jolly can rotate to hold the point of attack, along with somehow getting a bookend of some kind to Aaron Kampman.
Cole was just starting to come on as a real player and losing him is a definite blow. And not even being able to have a face to face with Canty before he agreed to terms with the Giants is also disappointing. It will be interesting to see what Ted Thompson does now with the $30 million in salary cap room he's sitting on.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Packers - Jaguars preview
It's game day in Florida. Jacksonville, to be precise. But when you have a 5-8 team going against a 4-9 team, about the only folks who really care are the fans of those two teams. That's reflected in the fact that of the 6 games being played first today, the game between the Pack and the Jags will be broadcast to only about 3 percent of national viewers. So, it's the bottom-feeders game, folks. That's where we're at.
The Packers have lost 3 straight and 5 of their last 6 since the bye week. Four of those losses have come -- as we all too painfully know -- by a combined total of 11 points, and typically all within the last minute or two of those games. But that fifth loss in the group, which was the blow out 51-29 loss at New Orleans in week 12 was probably the back-breaker for this young Packers team. They haven't been able to get their bearings since.
And that speaks to a leadership void. There's an interesting article on this very subject in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. You can check it out here.
But leadership aside, this is a game the Pack must have. I know. We've been saying that now for each of the last few weeks. And this isn't about the playoffs. While still statistically possible, the probability of the Packers winning out and both Da Bearz and ViQueens losing all their remaining games...doubtful. So, why must the Pack have this game? Pride. Yes, it does matter. There are reports out about Jacksonville that say they are a team that has given up. I hope so. It's the kind of help the Packers could use right now. If it helps build pride to win over a team that has given up, so be it. We'll take what we can get at this point.
It's also important, as the article mentioned above notes, to see where the Pack's leadership is now. But it will also be important in setting up the leadership for next season as well.
In Christmas party and other conversations with fellow fans, the thing that keeps popping up is that it's hard to figure out why the team is not closing out these games. Arguably, talent exists on this team with the exception of obvious voids, especially on the defensive line. So why can't they exert that force of will that can make even teams of mediocre talent -- oh, let's say, Da Bearz for example -- win. Some of that comes from the coaching staff. But ultimately, players need to hold themselves and each other accountable. Whether that has happened for with the Packers coming down the last weeks of the season...? Radio pundits on 620WTMJ radio -- the Packers flagship station -- pointed out this morning that even such normally available veterans as Aaron Kampman, Charles Woodson and Donald Driver did not make themselves available for interviews after the game last week. As to why they didn't wish to speak, who knows? Maybe they were saving it for the locker room with teammates only.
Anyway...back to the specifics of this game. Sorry for the detour...
The Packers are favored by 1-1/2 points. Of course, last week the Packers were favored at home by 6. So much for that.
The threat the Packers have to face this week comes in the form of a little big man, RB Maurice Jones-Drew, who will now be the featured running back given that Fred Taylor was lost for the season last week with a thumb injury. He's exactly the kind of running back that has given the Pack fits all season: someone with power and enough elusiveness to break big plays. Sound familiar? The Jags are 4-0 when they run 35 or more times per game; they are 0-9 when they don't. As if the Packers weak link -- a rush defense ranked 27th in the league -- wasn't bad enough, here we go again against a team that basically has the run as it's potential strong suit on offense.
The Jags don't have much going for them. But Houston, as a road team, didn't either before gashing the Pack for more than 500 yards in offensive output and stealing a win.
Pride. Do the Packers still have it? We'll see. If they lose to Jacksonville they have reached a major dysfunctional low that might take a lot of off-season tweaking to fix.
But fill up that glass with more green'n'gold kool-aide. I'm taking the Pack 24-23. It shouldn't be that close. But it may very well be.
Go Pack Go!!!
The Packers have lost 3 straight and 5 of their last 6 since the bye week. Four of those losses have come -- as we all too painfully know -- by a combined total of 11 points, and typically all within the last minute or two of those games. But that fifth loss in the group, which was the blow out 51-29 loss at New Orleans in week 12 was probably the back-breaker for this young Packers team. They haven't been able to get their bearings since.
And that speaks to a leadership void. There's an interesting article on this very subject in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. You can check it out here.
But leadership aside, this is a game the Pack must have. I know. We've been saying that now for each of the last few weeks. And this isn't about the playoffs. While still statistically possible, the probability of the Packers winning out and both Da Bearz and ViQueens losing all their remaining games...doubtful. So, why must the Pack have this game? Pride. Yes, it does matter. There are reports out about Jacksonville that say they are a team that has given up. I hope so. It's the kind of help the Packers could use right now. If it helps build pride to win over a team that has given up, so be it. We'll take what we can get at this point.
It's also important, as the article mentioned above notes, to see where the Pack's leadership is now. But it will also be important in setting up the leadership for next season as well.
In Christmas party and other conversations with fellow fans, the thing that keeps popping up is that it's hard to figure out why the team is not closing out these games. Arguably, talent exists on this team with the exception of obvious voids, especially on the defensive line. So why can't they exert that force of will that can make even teams of mediocre talent -- oh, let's say, Da Bearz for example -- win. Some of that comes from the coaching staff. But ultimately, players need to hold themselves and each other accountable. Whether that has happened for with the Packers coming down the last weeks of the season...? Radio pundits on 620WTMJ radio -- the Packers flagship station -- pointed out this morning that even such normally available veterans as Aaron Kampman, Charles Woodson and Donald Driver did not make themselves available for interviews after the game last week. As to why they didn't wish to speak, who knows? Maybe they were saving it for the locker room with teammates only.
Anyway...back to the specifics of this game. Sorry for the detour...
The Packers are favored by 1-1/2 points. Of course, last week the Packers were favored at home by 6. So much for that.
The threat the Packers have to face this week comes in the form of a little big man, RB Maurice Jones-Drew, who will now be the featured running back given that Fred Taylor was lost for the season last week with a thumb injury. He's exactly the kind of running back that has given the Pack fits all season: someone with power and enough elusiveness to break big plays. Sound familiar? The Jags are 4-0 when they run 35 or more times per game; they are 0-9 when they don't. As if the Packers weak link -- a rush defense ranked 27th in the league -- wasn't bad enough, here we go again against a team that basically has the run as it's potential strong suit on offense.
The Jags don't have much going for them. But Houston, as a road team, didn't either before gashing the Pack for more than 500 yards in offensive output and stealing a win.
Pride. Do the Packers still have it? We'll see. If they lose to Jacksonville they have reached a major dysfunctional low that might take a lot of off-season tweaking to fix.
But fill up that glass with more green'n'gold kool-aide. I'm taking the Pack 24-23. It shouldn't be that close. But it may very well be.
Go Pack Go!!!
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Packers - Titans preview
There's only about 30 minutes or so to kickoff at what will be a chilly Lambeau Field. The Packers and Titans are expected to be playing in game time temps of somewhere in the low teens. Nippy, as they say. Which should be to the Packers' advantage over a team coming in from Houston.
The Packers also have more to play for. Even with the mediocre 5-7 record they are currently sporting, the Pack still has a chance at the playoffs. But they have to win their remaining 4 games. And that means they have to win today.
Houston comes in with Matt Schaub returning to the starting QB spot. He's been out 4 games after arthroscopic knee surgery. One would expect him to be rusty. And shaking off rust in bitterly cold temperatures is perhaps not the best place to return to the game. Those hits are going to feel all that much more nasty in the cold and on a semi-frozen field. Schaub won't be very mobile. So the Pack will try to bring not only Aaron Kampman on the pass rush but are also going to be playing Brady Poppinga on some downs at defensive end. Poppinga played some at DE in college and actually played a few downs at that spot in last week's game versus Carolina, as the Packers try to do something -- anything -- to get a pass rush from someone besides just Kampman. The Pack will, however, have to keep Texans rookie RB Steve Slaton in check. He was supposed to be a fill-in for Ahman Green. But when Green went down for the season, Slaton became the featured back. He's exactly the kind of back that has given the Packers fits this season: fast and explosive, especially to the outside. The other big threat for the Texans comes in the form of receiver Andre Johnson. Former Wisconsin Badgers tight end Owen Daniels is also a favorite of Schaub's. With Packers LB Brandon Chillar -- arguably their best cover LB -- out today, Desmond Bishop gets the start in his place. No mistaking it: the Texans do have some weapons if the Pack doesn't do what they are capable of doing on defense.
Speaking of defense, the Texans also have "Super" Mario Williams on their defensive line. He will be moved to both sides of the line, so both Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher will have to be on the top of their games.
What the Packers will need to do, especially in these weather conditions, is run the ball. Ryan Grant came out of the game last week with a thumb injury which caused concern about his ability to hang on to the ball. The thumb is still hurting, and it won't feel any better today. So it will be interesting to see how much work Grant gets versus Brandon Jackson, who filled in quite well for him last week.
We haven't really seen how well Aaron Rodgers plays in cold weather. But we will today. This will be his first really cold cold weather game. Hopefully, he won't have to throw 30-40 times today for the Pack to stay in the game. But if he does, we'll know a lot about him either way.
We also get a chance to check out our new punter, Jeremy Kapinos. Keep your fingers crossed. Also, the Pack moved up three players from the practice squad this week. A signal was perhaps being sent to some of the guys on the kick coverage units that they can be replaced if they don't get their act together immediately. Another game like the last 2 for the kick coverage units and this game could be much closer than it should otherwise be.
Houston is a lousy road team. But the Pack has been so-so at home this season. Still, this is a game the Packers should win. More importantly, it is a game they must win to stay alive. The green'n'gold kool-aide is coming out again, Packer fans. The Packers are favored by 6. I'm taking the Pack 27 - 17 over the Texans.
Go Pack Go!!!
The Packers also have more to play for. Even with the mediocre 5-7 record they are currently sporting, the Pack still has a chance at the playoffs. But they have to win their remaining 4 games. And that means they have to win today.
Houston comes in with Matt Schaub returning to the starting QB spot. He's been out 4 games after arthroscopic knee surgery. One would expect him to be rusty. And shaking off rust in bitterly cold temperatures is perhaps not the best place to return to the game. Those hits are going to feel all that much more nasty in the cold and on a semi-frozen field. Schaub won't be very mobile. So the Pack will try to bring not only Aaron Kampman on the pass rush but are also going to be playing Brady Poppinga on some downs at defensive end. Poppinga played some at DE in college and actually played a few downs at that spot in last week's game versus Carolina, as the Packers try to do something -- anything -- to get a pass rush from someone besides just Kampman. The Pack will, however, have to keep Texans rookie RB Steve Slaton in check. He was supposed to be a fill-in for Ahman Green. But when Green went down for the season, Slaton became the featured back. He's exactly the kind of back that has given the Packers fits this season: fast and explosive, especially to the outside. The other big threat for the Texans comes in the form of receiver Andre Johnson. Former Wisconsin Badgers tight end Owen Daniels is also a favorite of Schaub's. With Packers LB Brandon Chillar -- arguably their best cover LB -- out today, Desmond Bishop gets the start in his place. No mistaking it: the Texans do have some weapons if the Pack doesn't do what they are capable of doing on defense.
Speaking of defense, the Texans also have "Super" Mario Williams on their defensive line. He will be moved to both sides of the line, so both Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher will have to be on the top of their games.
What the Packers will need to do, especially in these weather conditions, is run the ball. Ryan Grant came out of the game last week with a thumb injury which caused concern about his ability to hang on to the ball. The thumb is still hurting, and it won't feel any better today. So it will be interesting to see how much work Grant gets versus Brandon Jackson, who filled in quite well for him last week.
We haven't really seen how well Aaron Rodgers plays in cold weather. But we will today. This will be his first really cold cold weather game. Hopefully, he won't have to throw 30-40 times today for the Pack to stay in the game. But if he does, we'll know a lot about him either way.
We also get a chance to check out our new punter, Jeremy Kapinos. Keep your fingers crossed. Also, the Pack moved up three players from the practice squad this week. A signal was perhaps being sent to some of the guys on the kick coverage units that they can be replaced if they don't get their act together immediately. Another game like the last 2 for the kick coverage units and this game could be much closer than it should otherwise be.
Houston is a lousy road team. But the Pack has been so-so at home this season. Still, this is a game the Packers should win. More importantly, it is a game they must win to stay alive. The green'n'gold kool-aide is coming out again, Packer fans. The Packers are favored by 6. I'm taking the Pack 27 - 17 over the Texans.
Go Pack Go!!!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
End of 1st quarter: Packers 0 - Panthers 7
The Packers averted an opening play disaster by causing and recovering a fumble on a flea flicker pass reception that would have put Carolina on about the Packers 20-yard line. Unfortunately, the Pack didn't do anything with it.
And remember what I said in my game preview about trying to keep our punter Derrick Frost from punting? Well, he's punted three times in the first quarter...yikes.
The Pack did get a sack along the way. But also gave up a 15-yard run by DeAngelo Williams on a short field -- which Carolina had most of the quarter -- to set up the Panthers touchdown.
The Pack finally got something going at the end of the quarter, which will hopefully get them a score early in the second quarter.
But there doesn't seem to be much of a sense of urgency or energy by the Pack, yet again. And, other than the sack by Aaron Kampman, the D-line is once again exerting no pressure whatsoever.
And remember what I said in my game preview about trying to keep our punter Derrick Frost from punting? Well, he's punted three times in the first quarter...yikes.
The Pack did get a sack along the way. But also gave up a 15-yard run by DeAngelo Williams on a short field -- which Carolina had most of the quarter -- to set up the Panthers touchdown.
The Pack finally got something going at the end of the quarter, which will hopefully get them a score early in the second quarter.
But there doesn't seem to be much of a sense of urgency or energy by the Pack, yet again. And, other than the sack by Aaron Kampman, the D-line is once again exerting no pressure whatsoever.
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