Thoughts on Packers' Chandler, White House visit, and more

News hit on Thursday that kicker Don Chandler, from the legendary Lombardi teams of the 1960s, had died in Tulsa, OK, after fighting cancer. He was 76 years of age.

As the great article in yesterday's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel by Tyler Dunne noted, Chandler was instrumental in the Glory Years teams' playoff and championship runs. He may not have received all the credit he was due at the time, but his fellow teammates knew exactly how important he was to the teams' successess, especially in clutch situations. Read the article for comments from Chandler's teammates such as Zeke Bratkowski and Carroll Dale which reiterate that fact.

On a personal note, I remember as a kid that there was some kind of Don Chandler kicking instruction booklet being marketed (does this date me???). As a regular Punt-Pass-Kick participant (and sometime winner) back in the day, I remember reading, studying and practicing that straight-on kicking style until my leg hurt. But...it helped. Didn't get me to the pros. But still...it was like taking personal instruction from a member of the Green Bay Packers. Didn't get any better than that. Well, except for meeting Ray Nitschke and other Packers when they'd do their winter basketball games versus local high school teachers. (Wouldn't it have been nice if that was part of the new collective bargaining agreement? Players must play at least three charity benefit basketball games within their locale during the offseason. Ah, to dream...)

Pack visits White House
Today was the long-awaited official visit of the Super Bowl Champions to the White House. It was somewhat of a scenic route journey for the Pack as they head to Cleveland for their first preseason game of this new season Saturday night.

Of course, this visit was especially sweet as President Obama is a fan of Da Bearz. Which, for those with short-term memory issues, is the team the Packers beat in the NFC Championship -- in Chicago -- to earn the trip to the Super Bowl. QB Aaron Rodgers presented the President with a Packers jersey with the number "1" on it and "CommanderinChief" as the name on the back. CB Charles Woodson, who declared in the Packers locker room that if the President wouldn't come to see them in the Super Bowl (as he had said he'd do if Da Bearz had won the NFC) then the Packers would go see him. And thus it came to pass. Woodson presented the President with a minority shareholder certificate for the Packers. Upon receiving it, the President joked (as he did frequently during the visit) that now that he was an owner he'd like to trade Aaron Rodgers to Da Bearz. Ouch! That had to hurt, eh, Jay Cutler? Major dis from the Prez. Gotta love it.

One ex-Packer makes the White House cut, one current player doesn't
One nice touch by the Packers was including recently-released veteran Mark Tauscher as part of the travelling party. Tauscher, as all fans know, spent his entire professional playing career with the Packers. He's apparently undecided yet as to whether he will try to resume his career elsewhere or retire. If there's any player that deserved to be there -- even if he's not currently on the roster -- it's Tauscher. Nice move, Packers.

But one current Packers player, Desmond Bishop, was not allowed in the White House even though he made the trip. The glitch, according to a Tweet by Bishop, was that he had forgotten his photo ID on the plane. Without it, there was no admittance past the White House security. Oops! Well, Bishop took it in stride, noting that he'd be sure to have it with him the next time the Packers visit the White House. Which all Packer fans, of course, believe will be at the end of this football season.

Ahman Green retires
Some may have thought this already happened, given Green's waning career in lesser leagues. But he wanted to retire as a Packer. To that end, the Packers signed Green to a one-day contract, as is usual in these situations, so Green could go out in style with the team for which he is the all-time leading rusher. Congrats, Mr. Green. See you in the Packers Hall of Fame.

Ahman Green signs with...Omaha???

Veteran running back, Ahman Green, decided to sign with a new team after the Packers decided not to renew his contract. The 33-year-old Green has signed with...the Omaha Nighthawks. Nighthawks??? Omaha??? Is that what it took for Nebraska to opt in to the Big 10, for Ahman Green to sign with this new "expansion" team in the second-year United Football League (UFL)?

Well, it's not as strange as it may first appear. Green is actually returning to his hometown. He played at Central High School in Omaha and then at Nebraska for his college ball.

Green is the all-time leading rusher for the Packers. He was always a class act for the team (unlike someone we'll get to in a moment). Let us wish Mr. Green well in his new endeavor and root for those Nighthawks! He still wants to play, and has something left in the tank as he demonstrated after re-joining the Packers last season. He just might not have enough for the NFL anymore. Nothing wrong with going home to be a hometown hero again. You can read all about it here.

Underwood paid
No, not that kind of getting paid. The other kind of...paying.

According to an article in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, "Lake Delton police have confirmed that money was exchanged between Brandon Underwood and two women who have accused the Green Bay Packers cornerback of sexual assault. The Lake Delton Police Department issued a news release Wednesday in response to media reports that Underwood had solicited the two women for sex. According to the release from Chief of Police Tom Dorner, 'money was exchanged between the alleged suspect and the alleged victims before the alleged assault.'"

You can read the full article here. The decision by the Saux County district attorney's office is now expected sometime next week. While Underwood, if the report is correct, could have charges dropped for sexual assault he might wind up being charged with solicitation. It will be interesting to see if the two women involved will now be charged with filing false police reports in addition to whatever other charges they may face. Given the nature of the original allegations, it wouldn't be surprising.

Packers interested in Westbrook?

There was a time early in his career when, I suspect, many a Packers fan wished that Eagles running back Brian Westbrook would not be so good...especially, it seemed, in every game against the Packers.

The Eagles released Westbrook, now 30 years of age, in February. To date, no team has picked him up. There was some immediate speculation that the ViQueens might add him to their roster with Chester Taylor having signed with Da Bearz. But, not yet.

Now there is word the Pack might be considering Westbrook. He was always a solid back, equally good at receiving as rushing, which might make him an intriguing possibility for the Packers as a reliable third-down back. The catch is that he missed half of last season with two concussions. He's also absorbed a lot of hits over the years, in addition to the concussions. But if he passes a physical, perhaps playing in a limited role might be good for him and a plus for the Packers. The Packers have never been able to find a solid third-down answer under head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure. Westbrook might be a viable option, especially on a one-year contract.

You can read more about the Westbrook scenario here. And if you look at the results of the online poll as to whether the Packers should sign Westbrook or not...well, a lot of people think so.

Draft possibilities at running back
Of course, with the draft a little more than a week away, the Packers are no doubt considering their options at running back there, as well. Several mock drafts have the Pack picking up a running back in the mid to late rounds. Names mentioned include: LeGarrette Blount, Oregon (he of sucker-punch fame, whose early round draft position likely has dropped because of character issues); Joe McKnight, USC; Jahvid Best, California; Anthony Dixon, Mississippi State; Dexter McCluster, Mississippi; Charles Scott, LSU; Andre Dixon, Connecticut; Chris Brown, Oklahoma; Deji Karim, Southern Illinois; Toby Gerhart, Stanford.

We wouldn't expect GM Ted Thompson to use more than one draft pick on a running back, relying instead on his current roster (Ryan Grant, Brandon Jackson, Ahman Green, DeShawn Wynn and Kregg Lumpkin), possibly the pick up of Westbrook, and post-draft street free agent signings to fill out the spring and summer camps. But the Packers could definitely use a solid second back to Grant, someone who could push him, as well as substitute for him especially on third downs. The Packers don't really have any pure speed/juke backs on board. A change of pace back for the opposing defense to have to scheme for would certainly help open up the Packers already potent offense.

Aren't the playoffs fun? And we aren't even there yet!

The playoffs are fun when you are in them. And, for the first time in the Aaron Rodgers era, the Packers are. With yesterday's win over the Seahawks and the Giants embarrassing loss to the Panthers, the Pack secured one of the two NFC wildcard spots.

Still to be determined, with one week left in the regular season, is who the Packers will play. There are a number of scenarios, but it seems as if most of them point to the Pack meeting the Cardinals -- their opponent this coming Sunday -- in the first round. Playing a team two weeks back to back has its advantages and disadvantages. Neither team is obviously going to want to show too much. And with neither team having much to play for, how much will each of the coaches expose their starters to possible injury? You have to figure that, yes, they'd each like to win the final regular season game but not at the possible loss of key players. The playoff spot is secure and, for the Packers, it won't really matter much (well, kinda sorta) whether they win or lose the final game except for the final standings. So, the goal now becomes setting things up to win that wildcard game. More about that in days to come.

For now, you might find it entertaining to make use of the Yahoo Sports NFL Playoff Scenario Generator to see for yourself who the Pack could likely play in that first round. As noted earlier, most things point to the Cardinals. But, if Da Bearz were somehow to upset the ViQueens this evening in Chicago, it certainly can affect the scenarios.

So, just enjoy the fact that the Packers are back in the playoffs. They are seemingly peaking at the right time. They've got a Pro Bowl level quarterback at the helm and his name isn't Favre, but Aaron Rodgers. The defense -- despite having the secondary get lit up in Pittsburgh a week ago -- is playing at a high level. And perhaps Ryan Grant's late season surge is once again on display, with able back up coming from veterans Ahman Green and Brandon Jackson. And as for the receiving corps -- wideouts and tight ends -- as they say out East, fuggetaboutit.

Go Pack Go!!!

Win a trip for 4 to Packers playoff game!
From Packers eNews:

Fans Can Win Trip For Four To Packers Playoff Game On Packers.com

Online Sign-up For Package Runs From Dec. 28 Through Jan. 2

Playoff fever for Packers fans has arrived, and fans have the opportunity to build their anticipation for the postseason with a chance to win a trip for four to the Packers' Wild Card playoff game the weekend of Jan. 9-10 through a contest on Packers.com.

Beginning today and running through Jan. 2, 2010, fans can sign up for the chance to win the playoff package, which includes four tickets to the game, roundtrip airfare for four from anywhere in the continental United States (excluding Alaska and Hawaii), and two hotel rooms for two nights.

The winner will be chosen Jan. 3, and all arrangements will be made Jan. 4 once the game date and site are confirmed. A Jan. 9 game will see the winner and guests depart Jan. 8 and return Jan. 10. A Jan. 10 game will see a Jan. 9 departure and Jan. 11 return.

Registration for the contest and full details are available online here.

Potential winners must comply with the contest's official rules. The Packers will select the winner in a random drawing from all eligible entries received during the promotion period. The potential winners will be notified by telephone or e-mail. - Enter To Win!

Final: Packers 48 - Seahawks 10

OK, it was the Seahawks, but still...48-10! Wow.

The Packers turned in a dominating performance, doubling their 1st half score and only allowing Seattle a meaningless touchdown late in the game.

Backup RB Brandon Jackson scored two more TDs in the half to total three for the game. Backup RB Ahman Green added another rushing touchdown, his first since returning to the Packers. K Mason Crosby even added another field goal early in the 4th quarter, this one a confidence boosting kick from 52 yards away. Yeah, Mason!

The 2nd half started on a sour note for Seattle when QB Matt Hasselbeck got picked off by Jarrett Bush in their first series. It was downhill from there. Atari Bigby got his second interception of the day later in the half to give Hasselbeck 4 INTs on the day.

As for offensive statistics, QB Aaron Rodgers finished 12 of 23 for 237 yards and 1 touchdown. The game was nailed down so early that Rodgers was pulled for backup Matt Flynn before the 3rd quarter had ended. Flynn also performed well in mop up duty, going 4 for 6 for 36 yards and with no turnovers. Ryan Grant rushed for 97 yards, with 56 of those coming on his 2nd quarter TD gallop. WR Greg Jennings had a great day with 4 catches for 111 yards. TE Jermichael Finley had 3 catches for 80 yards.

Packers in the playoffs!
It was a great game, and a great way for the Packers to nail down a wildcard playoff spot. Yes, you heard that right. With the Packers' 10th win of the season and the Giants 41-9 loss to Carolina, the Packers have secured one of the two wildcard spots in the playoffs.

There are a lot of things to be determined yet as to who the Packers might play. Right now, it could be Philadelphia or more likely Arizona. But don't bank on any of that just yet.

For now, just savor this great win and a return to the playoffs.

Say it with me now: It's great to be a Packers fan!!!

Halftime: Packers 24 - Seahawks 3

On the Seahawks' first series of the 2nd quarter, they moved the ball steadily down field, eventually getting inside the Packers' 10-yard line. On 3rd down, Matt Hasselbeck's pass was tipped by Johnny Jolly and was intercepted in the endzone by Atari Bigby.

The Packers did nothing with the turnover, however, and soon the Seahawks were again down to the Packers' 10-yard line. A holding penalty sidetracked the 'hawks and they wound up having to settle for a field goal. 14-3 Packers.

On the Packers next series, RB Ryan Grant broke a handoff up the middle and took it 56 yards to the endzone. Packers 21-Seahawks 3.

The Packers got one more shot at the end zone on their last series, after some hard running by backup RB Ahman Green and another long pass and run from Aaron Rodgers to Greg Jennings.

Down in the redzone, however, there was some curious clock management by head coach Mike McCarthy as they had they let the clock run from about 50 seconds down 15 before taking a time out. On the next play, 3rd down, a pass down to about the 2-yard line set up 4th and goal with 8 seconds on the clock as the Packers took their final timeout. Eschewing (look it up) the field goal, the Pack went for it on 4th down. Rodgers threw a pass to a wide open TE/LB Spencer Havner for a TD...except, the refs called a penalty on Havner for pushing off the defender. Replays showed Havner merely disengaging from the defender...a rather ticky-tack call by the refs on that one. But, it then gave K Mason Crosby a chance to get some practice in on his field goals. Crosby converted the 29-yarder to put the Pack up 24-3 at half.

The other thing to note here at halftime is that currently in the 3rd quarter, Carolina is whupping the Giants 31-0 at the Meadowlands. With a Packers' win -- let's assume -- and a Giants' loss -- let's assume, the Packers will get a lock on a wildcard spot regardless of what the Cowboys do tonight.

Go Pack Go!

Packers - Ravens Preview

Seems like forever since we last saw our beloved Green Bay Packers take to the gridiron, doesn't it? It's a layoff the Packers have welcomed. Since dispatching the Lions on Thanksgiving, the Pack has been getting healthy for the stretch run of the season and the drive to the playoffs. Still, it hasn't exactly gone according to plan, as my post of Friday indicated.

A few injuries, namely to linebacker Jeremy Thompson and offensive tackle T. J. Lang, popped up. The injury to Thompson may or may not be season-ending. He suffered a neck sprain on Friday and was taken from the practice field by ambulance. Thompson was released from the hospital Saturday. You can read more about his status here. As for Lang, he suffered a concussion in practice and is listed as questionable on the injury report for the game tonight. As the guy who has become an effective and key backup on the offensive line in his rookie year, not having Lang to back up a possibly still gimpy Chad Clifton at left tackle means that Allen Barbre may be the primary backup at that spot if Clifton is unable to play or finish the game. C'mon, Clify!

But...to the game at hand...

The spread on the game (depending on what line you look at) is 3-1/2 points in favor of the Packers. Some prognosticators figure this to be a defensive battle, and well it might be. It will certainly be a physical game, especially on the defensive side of the ball. The Packers, as we are now aware, are ranked as the number one defense in the league. But that means nothing week to week. It only matters if they are the number one defense tonight. The Packers will be at full strength on defense (understanding, of course, this means without Al Harris and Aaron Kampman). What they will have to do is pressure a somewhat shaky Ravens QB Joe Flacco who has not been throwing the ball well of late. Some say that's due to the pounding he took earlier in the season when the Ravens' offensive line was doing their imitation of the Packers' line. Flacco doesn't have many weapons to throw to. In fact, the Ravens' leading receiver is also their leading rusher, second-year running back Ray Rice. If the Packers are able to rattle Flacco, CB Charles Woodson could very well wind up with a pick or two again tonight for the Packers.

The diminutive Rice is one of the hottest players in the league right now. He gives opposing defenses fits because the Ravens are now able to use him in a number of different formations. At 5'8", he has a low center of gravity and is difficult to bring down. He packs a lot of wallop into his 205 pounds, and is deceptively fast. He will be the offensive weapon that the Packers should be keying on shutting down. They keep him in check and the Packers are on their way to a "W".

Of course, the Pack also needs to handle the Ravens defense. And that starts with veteran LB Ray Lewis. He may be getting a bit long in the tooth, but he generates the energy for the defensive unit and can still bring it. He's not as fast as he was before, so if you can get him on a running back in coverage there should be some opportunities. He also doesn't get off blocks as well as he used to. The other key defender to be aware of is safety Ed Reed; although he is listed as questionable on the injury report he is expected to play. He has 3 interceptions on the season. The rest of the defensive backfield is ripe for the picking.

But that depends upon on the weather tonight. Currently, the forecast is for temps in the 20s but no snow or other precipitation this evening. There will be a chance of snow showers during the day but supposedly nothing at game time. This is the time of year that the running game should be starting to come to the fore. But as a great article in Saturday's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel points out, head coach Mike McCarthy has actually run less in December in two out of three of his previous seasons as coach than in the months before. Go figure. As the article notes, "The only time he ran more than he passed was 2007, when the Packers were 13-3 and winners of four of six games in December and beyond." OK...any lessons there? Hmmm... Anyway, Ryan Grant seems to have always rushed better later in the season. Somebody tossed out a stat that when he runs 22(?) or more times in a game the Packers are 10-1 (quick: someone double check that!). Ahman Green will be back tonight after missing a couple games. And Brandon Jackson is once again back in form as a reliable third down back and blocker. So the Packers can make the Ravens worry about the run, and that's a big help in letting Rodgers open things up in the passing game.

I think we should expect that the Pack will try to establish the run tonight to help keep pressure off QB Aaron Rodgers. But it will primarily be to loosen up the air game to exploit the Ravens' d-backs.

The wildcard in tonight's game will be the Packers special teams play. As we know all too well, the Packers' special teams is akin to Forrest Gump's box of chocolates: you never know what you're gonna get. And that's the scary part. If special teams helps keep the Ravens in the game goofy things can happen. Add in the fact that K Mason Crosby hasn't exactly been Mr. Reliable this season and points that should go on the board don't.

So, what's the bottom line on this game? Factoring all of the above into the prognostication blender, and that both teams are still playing for wildcard spots, we are calling this game Packers 20 - Ravens 16.

Go Pack Go!!!

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...

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.

Packers -Buccaneers Preview

If it's one thing we know about the Packers over the last two years it is that they will beat inferior teams. The problem arises, as we also know, against teams with winning records; the Packers have only beaten teams with winning records twice in the last two years.

So, given that Tampa Bay has yet to win a game this season, is there any reason to fear a loss? Well, anything can happen, of course. But the oddsmakers have the Packers as 9-1/2 point favorites. That is on the light side in the opinion of this observer.

If the Pack ever is able to get a running game going, today should be the day. The Buccaneers are giving up over 162 yards per game, 30th in the league. Granted, the Packers offensive line hasn't exactly been able to do great things in the rushing game this season...or the pass protection game, either, for that matter. But, LT Chad Clifton will be starting once again, and RT Mark Tauscher will also be making a start today, his first in roughly a year after coming off serious knee injury and rehab time. Let's see what the old boys can do, both to help get Ryan Grant and maybe even Ahman Green going a bit. And, especially, to help keep QB Aaron Rodgers vertical today. Rodgers was held out of practice until Friday so his foot and toe sprains could heal a bit...although I'm sure the rest of his body also appreciated a few days of rest given the beating it's taken through the first seven games.

Tampa Bay will be starting a new quarterback today, rookie Josh Freeman. This is something like the Buccaneers' 15th starting QB in the last seven years. Yikes. But if this doesn't set up as a perfect opportunity for the defense to generate turnovers today I don't know what will.

Now, there is the jinx that seems to descend on the Packers when they visit Raymond James Stadium. Weird things happen. And if memory serves (don't count on it), the Packers have only won once there. Guys get hurt, strange plays occur. Now, throw in the fact that the Buccaneers will be in their throwback creamsicle/dreamsicle uniforms from their early days of -- what -- the late 70s? Those uniforms were associated with losing teams that set standards for other losing teams to aspire to (I know, the grammar of that sentence leaves much to be desired, sorry, but you get the point...which is the point, right?)

Anyway, with about an hour or so to kickoff, we're putting this one in the "W" column for the Pack.

We're calling it 34-10 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Jason Spitz out for season
After dealing with an unspecified lower back problem since mid-October, the Packers decided to place starting center Jason Spitz on injured reserve, thus ending what started as a promising season for Spitz. Spitz had beaten out incumbent Scott Wells for the starting spot. He was not responding to treatment and after getting a second opinion that confirmed that of the Packers team doctor, the decision was made to put Spitz on season-ending IR.

Spitz's spot on the roster is now being taken by WR Biren Ealy who got promoted from the practice squad. Ealy has only had two weeks of practice with the Packers. According to reports, the decision to move Ealy up to the regular roster came because WR Donald Driver is still feeling effects of a neck injury and WR Jake Allen, who was promoted after WR Jordy Nelson was knocked to the sidelines for a few weeks with his knee injury, is questionable with a thigh injury.

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!!!

Which is worst: penalties or sacks?

For Packer fans through the first five games of the season, the matter of penalties and sacks is something that keeps us up at night. Well, OK, some of us. The Pack is leading the league in both categories. Not good.

But, is one of these maladies worse than the other in terms of its impact on games? Hmmm...have to admit, it seems a bit of a chicken-egg thing, doesn't it? Maybe not.

In a very good article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Packers beat writer Greg Bedard makes the case that, yes, penalties are not good but sacks are worse. And he's got some interesting stats to help back up his premise. But don't take my word for it. Check it out for yourself here.

More on the Green signing
As sports writer Mike Vandermause of the Green Bay Press-Gazette writes in a recent column, it didn't take long for the jokes to start flying -- including a few here -- about the signing of Ahman Green. But Vandermause also points out that this signing is perhaps a recognition, somewhat belatedly, by general manager Ted Thompson that having the youngest team in the league for the fourth straight year means there is not a lot veteran leadership or depth on the team. Thompson didn't sign Green to save the non-existent running game. He signed Green to be reliable backup at a position where there is now virtually none. As various sports talk shows are reminding listeners, Green was always good as a blocker -- Aaron Rodgers will be glad to hear that -- and as a receiver, especially on screen passes, which have also not been a big part of the offense lately.

One telling statement of how well the signing of Green, as well as that of Mark Tauscher, is being received in the locker room comes from fellow veteran Charles Woodson. Here's what Woodson had to say after the signing of Green was announced: "Anytime you're making moves to try to get better as a team, then I'm all for it. We know what these guys have done here in the past and we know they're eager to play. I definitely love when it's a veteran guy because I know veteran guys know exactly what it's about."

This comment by Woodson, "veteran guys know exactly what it's about," received a fair amount of attention on local sports call in shows, with more than one pundit making the point that Woodson basically was saying that the younger players just don't get what it's all about. For them, they think there will always be another game, another season in which to excel. Woodson, Green, Tauscher, Driver et al know otherwise. They know the time is now. There might not be another play to make a difference between a win and a loss, between the playoffs and a championship and going home till next season.

While leadership is part of what veterans bring, Woodson was adamant that what they bring is more than that. When a reporter suggested to Woodson that Green and Tauscher would help with leadership even if they didn't get into a game, Woodson was quick to state, "It'll help in the game. We ain't worried about the sideline. Our focus is on what happens in the game. You guys have been around a long time, you've seen Tausch, you've seen Ahman play football, so you know what kind of players they are. We look forward to having those guys out there when they're needed, when they're healthy and ready to go."

So, let's see what can happen. Tauscher is now taking part in full practices although it is doubtful he'll be ready for the Cleveland game. Green also, obviously, won't be ready to go Sunday. But having these players ready for duty when Ol' #4 returns the following week would definitely be a help. On the sideline and on the field.

Speaking of welcoming Favre back to Green Bay...
If you hadn't already heard about it, Green Bay's mayor is looking for ideas on ways to welcome Brent, er, Brett, back to town. Seriously. There's even an idea submittal form on the city's website. According to the site, "Mayor (Jim) Schmitt has fielded a wide variety of ideas from Packer fans on how to commemorate the occasion, from re-naming streets, to welcoming back other former Packers greats, to creating the world’s largest #4 waffle. The Mayor is reaching out to the community to create a list of the Mayor’s Top 4 things he can do to tastefully welcome back Brett Favre."

So good ahead, Packer fans, submit your ideas via the link above. And remember: be tasteful. I understand, that's a difficult requirement, but please try. You have until Wednesday, October 28.

Yep, it's Green again in Green Bay

As noted here yesterday, the Packers were going retro in their search for a backup running back now that DeShawn Wynn has landed on the injured reserve list and is -- shocking! -- unavailable to play yet again.

The answer: Ahman Green! Yep, the same Ahman Green who the Packers parted ways with in 2007, and who was injury-plagued during his brief stint in Houston, is back with the Pack. And why not? He only needs 46 more yards to break Jim Taylor's all-time yardage rushing record for the Packers. At the rate the Pack has been rushing the ball and gaining yards, Green might just make that by the time the last game of the season rolls around.

While the Packers didn't release details of the deal, reports are that it was a one-year deal (oh, go ahead, Ted...make it a long-term deal while you're at it! sorry...sorry...totally uncalled for, I know...) for a prorated portion of the veteran's minimum and likely with incentives that could boost the dollars, of course.

So...what can you say? What's old is new -- and still old -- again.

Penalties and other debris

The topic of ongoing penalties by the Packers under head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure is a topic of much discussion among Packer fans and sports pundits. Some of those thoughts were related in yesterday's post, including links to yet other articles about the topic.

Today, the online edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel has a poll about the subject. At the time of this posting, here are the results:

Does Mike McCarthy show enough concern over the number of Packers penalties?

• Yes (8%)
• No (92%)

Total Responses: 1,788

Guess, coach, fans aren't buying the old song and dance that "we'll get it cleaned up." We've heard that for the last few years and the Packers are still among the most penalized teams in the league. And then, refs begin looking for chances to throw the flags. You think they aren't eyeballing Chad Clifton every time he goes to the line of scrimmage to see if he is actually on the line of scrimmage?

Coach McCarthy also got a bit testy during his news conference yesterday when he was pressed on the subject of penalties. It doesn't really get conveyed in the transcript, but if you listen to the audio you should be able to sense his growing unease talking about the subject. Just go here and then click on coach McCarthy's press conference from Oct. 19.

Flashback or flash forward?
Reports out of Green Bay yesterday are that the Packers had RB Ahman Green in for a tryout yesterday. Whaaaaaaa...??? Yep. Ahman Green. Great. About 10 years ago, that is. Was cut by Houston in February after two seasons of ongoing injuries. At age 32, should he even be considered as a backup? And that's what we're talking here. But isn't it a reflection on personnel and/or coaching decisions when this is where things are at in regards to that position after just five games?

Let's review, shall we?

The decision was to keep Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn as the backups to Ryan Grant. Jackson is serviceable when healthy, which he hasn't been yet this season, being active for the first time against the Lions. Wynn has shown flashes on rare occasions when he's been healthy; his problem, however, is that he has never been healthy -- or willing play through minor injuries -- since he's been in the NFL.

As for the starter, Grant has been a non-factor in any form this season. He finally got off his longest run of the season -- 22 yards -- late in the game Sunday when the Lions had already been beaten. Not entirely his fault. The problems with the offensive line extend beyond giving up a league-leading sack count; there also just haven't been many holes to run through. (One wonders if even a back like Adrian Peterson could do anything given this current line. )

But back to personnel decisions. The Packers kept three fullbacks, which raised eyebrows at the time and perhaps is now coming back to haunt the team. Although this past Sunday, the team was down to only John Kuhn as both Korey Hall and rookie Quinn Johnson were out. But if the Pack had kept their leading rusher of the preseason, undrafted free agent Tyrell Sutton, the team might not now have to be looking at such alternatives as bringing in Ahman Green and Dominic Rhodes, another old-timer (age 30), as help in the running back department. Granted, Sutton might not have been the answer either. But at least he was fast and had fresh legs.

You can read more about this development here. Be sure to especially check out the reader comments afterward. Some priceless feedback.

Game Day Weather Link
In a continuing effort to provide at least some useful tools to Packer fans, I've recently added a "Packers 2009 Home & Away Weather Forecast" link in, appropriately enough, the "Links" section in the righthand column. Check it out there. Or here.

NFL Network's Path to the Draft and More

Today's edition of the NFL Network's "Path to the Draft" program featured the Packers "On the Clock." The analyst for the segment was Brian Baldinger, who did at least have the benefit of broadcasting a few Packer games last year. He was asked who the Pack would take at #16. While acknowledging the team's needs at wide receiver and tight end, Baldinger said the loss of Ahman Green meant the Packers had to go for a running back with their pick and Marshawn Lynch out of California would be a "great fit." He also said it's likely Lynch would still be on the board at #16. He felt Lynch would fit the Packers system nicely, make an immediate impact, and be similar in style to Ahman Green. As for the Packers second round pick, Baldinger said they should give Brett Favre another receiving target and Anthony Gonzales of Ohio State would be a great pick to be a possible #3 or 4 receiver for the Pack.

Baldinger was also asked what he saw ahead for Brett this year. Citing Brett's career-low completion percentage this last year, he said that it was all a matter of Brett making better decisions. (In fact, this was also the subject of an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.) With good talent and a good system, Baldinger said the Pack could definitely compete in the NFC North this season, predicting a 9-7 or 10-6 record and playoff contention. A lot of that, he said, had to do with how quickly the Pack's many young players raised the level of their game.

In another NFL Network segment, "State of the Franchise," they took a more in-depth look at the Packers. They began by discussing Brett Favre and whether he will be able to make some of the changes Coach McCarthy would like to have him make. They then discussed whether or not Brett coming back is hindering the development of Aaron Rodgers. It was the consensus that Rodgers can only benefit from watching and learning from Brett Favre. As for the rumor of Randy Moss joining the Packers, they felt that the team needed to add another receiver, but that Moss would not be a good fit for the Packers. Instead, they talked about the Packers needing safety help, running back and tight end help. These analysts also named running back Marshawn Lynch as the pick for the Pack at #16.

Rich Eisen had a one-on-one interview with Coach Mike McCarthy from the NFL Owners Meeting. McCarthy said that the area of the team that improved the most last year was the offensive line. He also said they are very happy with Vernand Morency at running back and have a few other young guys they are "excited" about. McCarthy was also asked about Favre, and said that he still has "a lot left in the tank." He also said he felt very excited about the future of Aaron Rodgers. When asked about Randy Moss being a part of the future of the team, McCarthy deftly said he couldn't talk about a player under contract. As to the defense, he said he was very happy with the play of the defensive line. As to what surprised him during his first year as coach, McCarthy said there was nothing more rewarding than pulling into Lambeau field every day, but that the administrative part of the job was probably the part he had to adjust to most.

Paul Burmeister and Charles Davis took yet another look at the Packers draft needs. While saying the Packers were high on California RB Marshawn Lynch, Davis didn't think Lynch would be available at #16 given some changing needs with teams drafting ahead of the Packers. If that's the case, he felt Tennessee receiver Robert Meachem would be a great fit for the Packers opposite Donald Driver. Meachem has good size at 6-3 and 210 lbs. He caught 71 passes for 1,298 yards last year, with 11 touchdowns. He runs a 4.45 40. This is the first time this name has popped up in a discussion of a possible Packer pick at #16. While running back, and hence Lynch, would seem to be the pick to take if he's available, Meachem does offer an intriguing alternative.

PACK RE-SIGNS COLE

The Packers re-signed defensive lineman Colin Cole today to a one-year contract. Cole performed admirably in back-up duty and obviously showed the Packers enough to make them want to keep him around.

The SI Take on Green's Departure

Another way you could express that headline is: the Sports Illustrated take on Houston's signing of former Packers running back Ahman Green. Short answer: didn't like it.

Don Banks' online "Inside the NFL" column at the SI website listed the Texans' signing of Green as #1 in the "Ten Moves I Disliked" listing of free agency moves so far. He cites Green's age and number of career carries as the primary reasons. Implied within those comments is that he ain't what he used to be. Yet the Texans -- with the encouragement of former Packers' GM/Coach and current Texans' offensive coordinator Mike Sherman -- are paying him $8 million this year, in the first of a four-year $23 million contract. The Texans passed on taking running back Reggie Bush with the #1 overall draft pick last year, taking D-lineman Mario Williams instead. They are still kicking themselves for that one. (Take it from a team that knows. Remember, the Packers are the team that picked Tony Mandarich at #2 in the 1989 draft while future superstars like Barry Sanders, Derrick Thomas and Deion Sanders were still on the board. Say it with me now, in your best Homer Simpson impression: "D'oh!")

Houston will likely be kicking themselves for this signing, too. As good as Ahman Green once was -- and might still be for a year or two barring injury -- he isn't a Reggie Bush...and you can't turn back the clock. $8 million for the year? At this stage of his career? Yep, that's a Sherman deal if you ever saw one.

You can read Banks' take on this here.

Fans to Green: Buh-Bye Now

As much as Ahman Green has meant to the Packers over the past seven years, he wasn't worth what the Texans paid for him. Former Packers GM/Coach and current Houston offensive coordinator Mike Sherman was reportedly instrumental in convincing Texans' management that they should acquire Green. One thing the Texans obviously do not yet have is a perspective on Sherman's tossing boatloads of money at questionable signings as the Packers' GM. Packer fans know Sherman's record as GM (as opposed to the arguably good record he had as coach) and will likely see this in that same vein.

In fact, Packer fans seem to confirm current Packers' GM Ted Thompson's hard line on resigning Green. Just take a look at the poll results in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel where nearly 70 percent of nearly 6,400 respondents at the time of this posting say the Pack should not have done anything more to re-sign Green:
Should the Packers have done more to keep Ahman Green?
No (69.7%)
Yes (30.3%)
Total votes: 6,378

So, thanks for the memories, Ahman. You served the Pack well. But...buh-bye now...

Green Goes for the Green...Just Not the Green 'n' Gold

Jim Taylor's all-time Packers' rushing record is safe. Ahman Green has reportedly agreed to a four-year $23 million contract with the Houston Texans. That leaves the Packers with some backups, and some veteran possibilities in free agency, as well as the draft to fill Green's shoes.

So it goes...Green heads to Texas. The Packers will be looking for a new star running back. Thanks, Ahman. You contributed greatly to the Packers during your seven years with the team. You'll be missed.

Green is a Free Agent

After seven years with the Packers, RB Ahman Green is officially a free agent. Despite weeks of negotiations, the two sides could apparently not come to terms. The Packers indicated they would like to have Green back. He is about 46 yards shy of becoming the Packers' all-time leading rusher, surpassing Jim Taylor's record. Green has indicated on numerous occasions that he'd like to remain a Packer for the rest of his career.

However, reports indicate that he is seeking a multi-year deal worth at least $5 million a year. He earned $2.75 million last year. It's hard to imagine that any team would hand out that kind of deal to a 30-year-old back with lots of mileage on him. We can only hope that he and his agent figure that out and that Green returns for another year. Because of his stated interest of remaining in Green Bay, it is likely that Green is testing the market to determine his value; he'll then bring that info back to the Pack to negotiate further.

Green may not be what he used to be. But coming back the way he did last year after what could have been a career-ending injury for some players indicates he still can be a productive player. But, it is also clear, whether or not Green returns, that the Packers need to find a possible starting back via the draft. Unfortunately, this is not a strong year for running backs. But there was a lot of talk coming out of the NFL combine last weekend that the Packers were eyeing Californian junior RB Marshawn Lynch who seems to be the type of back that would fit well into the Packers offensive scheme. He is also projected to possibly still be available at the #16 spot when the Pack get their pick. Oklahoma RB Adrian Peterson would also be a possibility, although he is projected to go before Lynch. Lynch was Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year, and was MVP of the Holiday Bowl.

Yes, it would be great to have Green back. Not only for his veteran presence and productivity, but also to help tutor a young back like Lynch. It's a goofy league out there, though, and it's just possible that someone might offer Green at least enough of a deal to make him leave Green Bay. But the bet here -- for what that's worth (i.e., not much) -- is that Green will be back.

Packers vs. Da Bearz: An Early Perspective

Like many Packers fans, the NFL's switch of game time for the regular season finale from noon to 7:15 p.m. on Sunday means in all likelihood I will not be able to see this game. New Year's Eve plans were made with a noon start in mind. The switch to prime time basically killed the viewing of the game for many fans. News reports this a.m. indicated that Da Bearz fans are unloading their tickets as a result of the time change. Even if the game means nothing to Da Bearz in terms of their playoff position, and even though Da Bearz fans are known for being a bit fickle, it's still the Pack vs. Da Bearz. The fact that apparently so many are trying to unload their tickets means that people made other plans counting on a noon start time.

The biggest problem with all this, of course, is the speculation that this could be Brett Favre's last game. Many fans who would like to watch -- just in case -- are out of luck unless they run out and get a Tivo or tape the game. Either way, not quite the same. And the game is also an important one, of course, because the Pack is still playing for a playoff spot. If the Packers win and the Giants lose -- which is a distinct possibility given their recent play and the fact that Michael Strahan has apparently been placed on injured reserve -- they stand a good shot at the playoffs. According to an article on AOL Sports: "If New York loses, then the Packers would need a win, coupled with either a Rams loss, Panthers win or Falcons win to reach the postseason. If New York wins, Green Bay could remain mathematically alive to win a strength of victory tiebreaker with the Giants, but would need an elaborate, unlikely combination of results from around the league to make that happen."

At the time of this posting, Da Bearz are favored by 3 points. Over the course of his career, Favre is 21-8 against Chicago. Brett has had a couple of mediocre games lately, despite being able to pull out three straight wins. I would count on Brett to have a big game. He's due. Plus, he may be going against Da Bearz' reserves for much of the game. Another lesser known aspect to this game, as reported in an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, is the incentive running back Ahman Green has. Read: cash. He only needs 12 yards to hit the 1,000-yard season marker, his sixth, surpassing Jim Taylor's long-standing record of five such seasons as a Packer. He's already earned $500,000 for hitting the 950-yard provision that was part of his one-year contract. But, if he can rush for 162 yards against Da Bearz, and finish with 1,150 yards for the season, Green can cart off another $500,000. Is it possible? Playing against Chicago's back ups, sure. Is it probable? Probably not. Still, you have to admire the way Green came back off that serious thigh injury of last year. He's playing for some extra cash in this game, he's playing to help the team get to the playoffs, and he's playing for his future, either re-signing with the Packers or moving to another team in the off-season.

The prediction: Packers 17, Da Bearz 10.

So, Packer fans, in the likely event that any additional pre-game postings may not occur here, and that a post-game review might be a few days after the fact, I wish you all a very Happy New Year. I hope you are able to watch the game and cheer the Packers to a victory. Cheer hard! You'll be rooting for all those fans who can only wish that the NFL hadn't pulled this last-minute switcheroo.

Go Pack Go!!!