The undefeated Green Bay Packers roll into Kansas City today for the last of this season's road games. If the Packers win, they will have gone undefeated in all their road games, which is something that has only been done a handful of times in the history of the NFL. (Or is it 2 handfuls? Look it up!) More importantly, it will give the Pack 14 wins on the season and secure homefield advantage throughout the playoffs. It will also set the stage for the final two home games of the regular season against Da Bearz and Lions. 16-0 is just a hop-skip-jump away.
But first, the Packers must dispose of the Chiefs. The oddsmakers have installed the Packers as 13-1/2-point favorites and with the over/under at 45.5 points.
What's to stop the Pack from getting a "W" today? There are always the lists that are put out about "10 things the Packers need to do to win, etc." Ya know, all they have to do is one thing: show up. Now, I don't say that to slight the Chiefs. They can play -- especially on the defensive side of things -- and if the Packers let them hang around long enough anything can happen. Kyle Orton is getting the nod at QB today. But in terms of offensive weapons, they just don't have much. Defensively, the KC defensive backs will have their hands full all day long even without having to cover WR Greg Jennings. The Packers are loaded at receiver and tight end and, obviously, present huge matchup problems for any team. Plus, the Chiefs have really been hit by injuries as well.
Of course, the Packers also have injury issues. Inactives for today just announced are: Graham Harrell, Brandon Saine, James Starks, Desmond Bishop, Chad Clifton, Ryan Pickett, and Greg Jennings. LB Vic So'oto and RG Josh Sitton are active.
Pickett's presence will be missed. The Packers have had problems stopping the run all year and that has been with Pickett having a good season. With Saine and Starks both inactive, that means the only two running backs active for this game are Ryan Grant and John Kuhn. Grant had his best game all season last week against the Raiders and Kuhn was his typical Kuhn-esque self late in the game. Let's hope they both hold up again today. The emphasis, of course, will once again be the passing game. Shocking, yes.
So, what's it all boil down to? That the Packers will come away with their fourtheenth victory of this season, 20 in a row going back to last year. An amazing run, and something not before seen in the history of the Packers. The players want to go 16-0 in the regular season, so I can't imagine them tripping up in a supposed "trap game" against the likes of KC.
I'm calling it Packers 41 - Chiefs 17.
GO PACK GO!!!
P.S. A big congratulations to the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater football team, who Friday evening won their third consecutive Division III football championship, defeating (again) Mount Union, 13-10. It's a great college program and another winner in the fine Wisconsin tradition. Congrats, Warhawks!
Showing posts with label Chad Clifton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chad Clifton. Show all posts
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Monday, December 12, 2011
Packers route Raiders, 46-16; witnessing "greatness"?
Are there really any more superlatives one can use to describe the 2011 Green Bay Packers? Apparently so. Yesterday, before the Packers took the Oakland Raiders to the Lambeau Field woodshed for a whupping, former Steelers coach Bill Cowher declared that, "In my opinion, no team has been greater." That certainly sets up a conversation filled with opinions. But for now, at least, the Packers are certainly the greatest team this season...and unarguably the second greatest over a two-season span, winning 19 consecutive games going back to last year. This Packers team trails only the New England Patriots of several years back who reeled off 21 games in a row over two seasons.
The Pack are enjoying a historic season from a team perspective, setting records for scoring, consecutive wins, etc. QB Aaron Rodgers finally had his NFL record consecutive streak of games with a passer rating over 100 snapped yesterday, falling just short of that mark. Even an MVP has an off day now and then.
Anyway, back to the Raiders game. Oh, why bother? They didn't show up to play, why should I show up to write about them? Exactly!
The Pack had their most complete game of the season yesterday. Scoring almost at will in the first half, and generating five turnovers on defense. Three players that hadn't scored yet this season got added to the total, now making 19 in all. Ryan Grant, Erik Walden and rookie Ryan Taylor all notched a TD. The only blemish on a perfect day was a blocked PAT...but that just kept the score at 43 points at that time instead of 44. Ah well. Even backup QB Matt Flynn saw more than a quarter's worth of playing time.
Oh...and with the win, the Packers secured a first round bye in the playoffs. If they beat Kanssas City on the road this coming Sunday, they will secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Anyone think that's not going to happen? KC? Puh-leze. All roads will lead to Lambeau this season, Packer fans!
The downside to the game was the injury to WR Greg Jennings, a sprained knee (originally reported as a torn MCL) which will sideline him probably through the end of the regular season. While, no one thinks losing Jennings is a plus, is anyone really worried that things won't keep churning along? The depth that GM Ted Thompson has built is remarkable. One guy goes down, another comes in without any apparent drop off.
Still, injuries are starting to pile up. RB Brandon Saine -- himself a replacement -- had his playing time shortened yesterday after sustaining a concussion. Ditto for Ryan Pickett. Offensive linemen Chad Clifton and Josh Sitton are still out. LBs A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop are ailing. It's nowhere near as bad as last year. But still. Injuries to key personnel, most notably Rodgers, would be about the only thing that would derail this juggernaut. Keep your fingers crossed, folks. Things are looking good. But players need to stay healthy for the final push through the post-season to the Super Bowl.
The Packers are on their way again. And we can all enjoy the ride.
Say it with me: it's great to be a Packers fan!
The Pack are enjoying a historic season from a team perspective, setting records for scoring, consecutive wins, etc. QB Aaron Rodgers finally had his NFL record consecutive streak of games with a passer rating over 100 snapped yesterday, falling just short of that mark. Even an MVP has an off day now and then.
Anyway, back to the Raiders game. Oh, why bother? They didn't show up to play, why should I show up to write about them? Exactly!
The Pack had their most complete game of the season yesterday. Scoring almost at will in the first half, and generating five turnovers on defense. Three players that hadn't scored yet this season got added to the total, now making 19 in all. Ryan Grant, Erik Walden and rookie Ryan Taylor all notched a TD. The only blemish on a perfect day was a blocked PAT...but that just kept the score at 43 points at that time instead of 44. Ah well. Even backup QB Matt Flynn saw more than a quarter's worth of playing time.
Oh...and with the win, the Packers secured a first round bye in the playoffs. If they beat Kanssas City on the road this coming Sunday, they will secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Anyone think that's not going to happen? KC? Puh-leze. All roads will lead to Lambeau this season, Packer fans!
The downside to the game was the injury to WR Greg Jennings, a sprained knee (originally reported as a torn MCL) which will sideline him probably through the end of the regular season. While, no one thinks losing Jennings is a plus, is anyone really worried that things won't keep churning along? The depth that GM Ted Thompson has built is remarkable. One guy goes down, another comes in without any apparent drop off.
Still, injuries are starting to pile up. RB Brandon Saine -- himself a replacement -- had his playing time shortened yesterday after sustaining a concussion. Ditto for Ryan Pickett. Offensive linemen Chad Clifton and Josh Sitton are still out. LBs A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop are ailing. It's nowhere near as bad as last year. But still. Injuries to key personnel, most notably Rodgers, would be about the only thing that would derail this juggernaut. Keep your fingers crossed, folks. Things are looking good. But players need to stay healthy for the final push through the post-season to the Super Bowl.
The Packers are on their way again. And we can all enjoy the ride.
Say it with me: it's great to be a Packers fan!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Packers vs. Raiders preview
The Oakland Raiders -- or Raidahs, if you prefer an ESPN announcer-ish pronunciation -- visit the not-yet-fully-frozen tundra of Lambeau Field this afternoon to become the Green Bay Packers latest victims. The Raiders are in a dead heat with the Tebow-roncos for the lead in the AFC West at 7-5, although technically in second place because of tie-breakers, etc. They are 3-2 in their last five games. After beating Da Bearz 25-20 at home (thank you very much!), the Raiders had an embarrassing loss last Sunday in Miami, losing to the last-place AFC East Division Fish, 34-14. Today, Oakland is a 12-point underdog to the Pack. The over-under on this game is the highest of all games this week, at 51.5. The Packers are averaging 35 points per game and the Raiders just under 23. Some points are going to be scored today. As usual for the last 12 games of this regular season, and 18 games straight back to last season, the Packers will put up more points than their opponent and come away with their 13th win of the 2011 schedule.
That's not to say this will be a gimme game. Oakland is fighting for its playoff life against streaking Denver and they were embarrassed by the Dolphins. So they will come to Lambeau with a chip on their shoulder, no doubt. But it's not as if this will be the first time the Packers have seen that situation this season. It's pretty much a weekly occurrence now: teams with something to prove to either themselves or others.
Raiders quick take
So what are the Raiders strengths coming into this game? A good quarterback in Carson Palmer, although as an in-season pick up he is still learning about his receivers and vice versa. Third-year WR Darrius Heyward-Bey leads the team in receptions and yards, with rookie Denarius Moore not far behind; regrettably for Oakland, Moore is out for this game.
The Raiders have had a solid running game, which is fourth in the NFL, averaging just over 140 yards per game. For the most part, it consists of Michael Bush and Darren McFadden, but the latter is out for this game. Fellow running back Taiwan Jones is also out for this game, leaving Bush, Rock Cartwright (with all of two rushing attempts this season) and FB Marcel Reece to shoulder the carries. Packer fans know all-too-well that the defense sometimes has trouble tackling ball carriers. We can be thankful that McFadden is out today, as that would be a definite challenge.
The Raiders have a lot of injuries, at key positions. They are capable of putting up some points, but it won't be enough against the Packers today.
Packers notes
For the Packers, the team will once again be without RB James Starks. Look for Ryan Grant and rookie Brandon Saine to get the carries today, along with an occasional bone thrown to John Kuhn, of course. We might get to see a little more action from TEs Tom Crabtree and rookie D.J. Williams today, after Andrew Quarless was placed on IR for the season. With the loss of second-year player Quarless, the Packers lose arguably their best-blocking tight end. One of these other players will have to pick up the slack. It's also possible Williams could create some match up problems as well if he's factored into the passing game at all. But, as we all know, with the wide receiving corps the Packers have, along with TE Jermichael Finley, there are targets aplenty for QB Aaron Rodgers and match up problems galore for the Pack's opponents week in and week out.
The trick will be for the Packers O-line to protect Rodgers without, once again, starters Chad Clifton and Josh sitton. LT Marshall Newhouse had a great game against Detroit but struggled last week's against the Giants. Look for him to re-establish himself with a solid game.
Defensively, the Packers will also be without starting LB Desmond Bishop once again. A.J. Hawk is listed as questionable. D.J. Smith and Robert Francois will no doubt both see plenty of action again today. They have held up well so far. Charles Woodson is listed as probable coming off his slight concussion sustained in last week's game; in fact, he's one of the captains for today's game...not surprising since he spent the first part of his illustrious career playing for the Raiders, of course. Gotta figure he's looking for a big game against his old team.
Bottom line...
Temperatures for today's game will start in the mid-30's -- balmy for mid-December in Green Bay -- and will dip a bit as the sun goes down for the second half of the game. Conditions will be clear with low winds. In other words, it is great weather for a late afternoon/early evening winter game in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
After throwing all the variables into the Packervac 5000 Computer (Copyright/Trademark!), our prediction has the Pack beating the Raiders by a score of 41-27.
Go Pack Go!!!
That's not to say this will be a gimme game. Oakland is fighting for its playoff life against streaking Denver and they were embarrassed by the Dolphins. So they will come to Lambeau with a chip on their shoulder, no doubt. But it's not as if this will be the first time the Packers have seen that situation this season. It's pretty much a weekly occurrence now: teams with something to prove to either themselves or others.
Raiders quick take
So what are the Raiders strengths coming into this game? A good quarterback in Carson Palmer, although as an in-season pick up he is still learning about his receivers and vice versa. Third-year WR Darrius Heyward-Bey leads the team in receptions and yards, with rookie Denarius Moore not far behind; regrettably for Oakland, Moore is out for this game.
The Raiders have had a solid running game, which is fourth in the NFL, averaging just over 140 yards per game. For the most part, it consists of Michael Bush and Darren McFadden, but the latter is out for this game. Fellow running back Taiwan Jones is also out for this game, leaving Bush, Rock Cartwright (with all of two rushing attempts this season) and FB Marcel Reece to shoulder the carries. Packer fans know all-too-well that the defense sometimes has trouble tackling ball carriers. We can be thankful that McFadden is out today, as that would be a definite challenge.
The Raiders have a lot of injuries, at key positions. They are capable of putting up some points, but it won't be enough against the Packers today.
Packers notes
For the Packers, the team will once again be without RB James Starks. Look for Ryan Grant and rookie Brandon Saine to get the carries today, along with an occasional bone thrown to John Kuhn, of course. We might get to see a little more action from TEs Tom Crabtree and rookie D.J. Williams today, after Andrew Quarless was placed on IR for the season. With the loss of second-year player Quarless, the Packers lose arguably their best-blocking tight end. One of these other players will have to pick up the slack. It's also possible Williams could create some match up problems as well if he's factored into the passing game at all. But, as we all know, with the wide receiving corps the Packers have, along with TE Jermichael Finley, there are targets aplenty for QB Aaron Rodgers and match up problems galore for the Pack's opponents week in and week out.
The trick will be for the Packers O-line to protect Rodgers without, once again, starters Chad Clifton and Josh sitton. LT Marshall Newhouse had a great game against Detroit but struggled last week's against the Giants. Look for him to re-establish himself with a solid game.
Defensively, the Packers will also be without starting LB Desmond Bishop once again. A.J. Hawk is listed as questionable. D.J. Smith and Robert Francois will no doubt both see plenty of action again today. They have held up well so far. Charles Woodson is listed as probable coming off his slight concussion sustained in last week's game; in fact, he's one of the captains for today's game...not surprising since he spent the first part of his illustrious career playing for the Raiders, of course. Gotta figure he's looking for a big game against his old team.
Bottom line...
Temperatures for today's game will start in the mid-30's -- balmy for mid-December in Green Bay -- and will dip a bit as the sun goes down for the second half of the game. Conditions will be clear with low winds. In other words, it is great weather for a late afternoon/early evening winter game in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
After throwing all the variables into the Packervac 5000 Computer (Copyright/Trademark!), our prediction has the Pack beating the Raiders by a score of 41-27.
Go Pack Go!!!
Sunday, December 04, 2011
Packers vs. Giants preview: who's it gonna be?
After a franchise record 17 wins in a row going back to last season, and 11 in a row this season, the Green Bay Packers will face the Giants on the road. The Packers are listed as 6.5-point favorites over the 6-5 Giants. The over-under is set at 54 points.
The odds are one way to look at the game, of course. The other is to note who's in and who's out, especially for the Packers. The Pack will be without their two starting inside linebackers, A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop. In their places will be the relatively untested Robert Francois -- who had a big interception against Detroit on Turkey Day when called up during the game -- and undersized rookie, D.J. Smith, who also was impressive during his play against the Lions. Smith will actually be calling the defensive sets, the job that typically is Hawk's. On offense, the Packers will still be without LT Chad Clifton and today will also be without RG Josh Sitton.
So there are potential areas of concern on both sides of the ball for the Packers. But the Giants have their own concerns. A wide open offense in the form of the New Orleans Saints lit up the Giants for 49 points on Monday night. Any other team remind you of the Saints. Hmmmmm...oh, yeah, the Pack! So, there's that.
Yes, the Giants running game -- big back -- could pose a problem, as it seems most big backs do for the Packers. And Eli Manning can air it out if given the chance. But can they outscore the Pack? Not unless the Packers turn it over or otherwise beat themselves. Sure, the Giants' defensive coordinator was talking smack this week promising that if QB Aaron Rodgers scrambles they were going to hit him and hit him again. Well, Rodgers will do what he needs to do. And that will result in a win. Number 12 on the season and in a row, to be exact.
I'm calling it 34-24 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
P.S. A big shout out to the Wisconsin Badgers who defeated Michigan State 42-39 last night in the first ever Big 10 Championship Game for a trip to the Rose Bowl. But if you thought that game was chicken salad, you ain't seen nothin' yet! (I have no idea what that means either. One of the announcers during the game last evening used that expression, "chicken salad" and other non sequiturs to describe various part of the action. Yes, entertaining in a bizarro world kind of way.)
The odds are one way to look at the game, of course. The other is to note who's in and who's out, especially for the Packers. The Pack will be without their two starting inside linebackers, A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop. In their places will be the relatively untested Robert Francois -- who had a big interception against Detroit on Turkey Day when called up during the game -- and undersized rookie, D.J. Smith, who also was impressive during his play against the Lions. Smith will actually be calling the defensive sets, the job that typically is Hawk's. On offense, the Packers will still be without LT Chad Clifton and today will also be without RG Josh Sitton.
So there are potential areas of concern on both sides of the ball for the Packers. But the Giants have their own concerns. A wide open offense in the form of the New Orleans Saints lit up the Giants for 49 points on Monday night. Any other team remind you of the Saints. Hmmmmm...oh, yeah, the Pack! So, there's that.
Yes, the Giants running game -- big back -- could pose a problem, as it seems most big backs do for the Packers. And Eli Manning can air it out if given the chance. But can they outscore the Pack? Not unless the Packers turn it over or otherwise beat themselves. Sure, the Giants' defensive coordinator was talking smack this week promising that if QB Aaron Rodgers scrambles they were going to hit him and hit him again. Well, Rodgers will do what he needs to do. And that will result in a win. Number 12 on the season and in a row, to be exact.
I'm calling it 34-24 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
P.S. A big shout out to the Wisconsin Badgers who defeated Michigan State 42-39 last night in the first ever Big 10 Championship Game for a trip to the Rose Bowl. But if you thought that game was chicken salad, you ain't seen nothin' yet! (I have no idea what that means either. One of the announcers during the game last evening used that expression, "chicken salad" and other non sequiturs to describe various part of the action. Yes, entertaining in a bizarro world kind of way.)
Sunday, November 06, 2011
Packers vs. Chargers Preview: Wild, Wild West
The Green Bay Packers are today making their first trip to San Diego since 2003; this is only the sixth time in the long history of the Packers that the team has played in "American's Finest City," as the city of San Diego so humbly refers to itself (it may not be LA or Hollywood, Packer fans, but it's close enough...it's still all about the hype). The Packers have won the last five straight matches between the two teams and are 5-0 all time in San Diego. Today, the Pack enters the game as 5.5-point favorites.
As all Packer fans are aware, the team is the only remaining undefeated team in the league at 7-0 and coming off their bye week. They should be well rested. The only players who were listed earlier in the week as definitely out were LT Chad Clifton and DE Mike Neal. Everyone else is available (although recall that rookie RB Alex Green was placed on the injured reserve list earlier in the week following his leg injury early in the game against the ViQueens; practice squad RB Brandon Saine took his spot on the 53-man roster). The Chargers, on the other hand, are coming off a short week after their Monday night loss at Kansas City. They are also injured.
Make no mistake, however, this could very well be a trap game for the Packers. The Bolts have looked bad in their last two consecutive game losses, especially last week against division rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs; they had penalties, turnovers, and you-name-it when they got near or into the red zone, particularly late in the game with a chance to win. The Chargers are 4-3, with the largest point loss being to the Patriots in week 2, 35-21; they are in every game. With QB Phil Rivers at the helm, huge receivers and one of the better tight ends in the game, the Chargers can present problems for a defense. Given the nature of the Packers "D" through the first 7 games of the schedule, unless things got tightened up over the bye and this last week of practice, it could be yet another tight but high-scoring game for both teams. In fact, Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers said this week that, “This is one of the best offenses we’ll face all year.”
This is a must-win type of game for the Chargers. If there is any game in which they will likely be at their best, this is it. As such, the Packers will also need to start fast, stay consistent, and finish strong in order to win this game. The Packers are the league's top scoring offense, at 32.9 points per game, and scoring at least 24 points in each game game so far, the only team in the league to accomplish that, as well. Driving this offense, as anyone who is even a mild observer of football knows, is QB Aaron Rodgers. He is the top quarterback in the league, at the moment. In fact, he's registered a quarterback rating of 110 or more in each of his 7 appearances so far this season -- the only quarterback in NFL history to do so! Oh, and did I mention that Rodgers just won another Offensive Player of the Month Award? But wait...there's more! Since last November -- LAST November -- nobody in the NFC other than Rodgers has won this award. A-wha...??? A-duh!!! Anytime, anywhere, Mr. Rodgers wants to do his "belt" routine, he's earned it.
The edge on offense has to go to the Packers, of course. Lots of weapons for the league's best passer -- and best player (there, I said it!) -- to choose from. Although when breaking things down, the edge in the running game goes to the double-headed San Diego rushing attack of Ryan Matthews and Mike Tolbert; the Packers will have to slow that threat down in order to keep the ball in Rivers hands and hopefully have him continue to make the kind of mistakes he has in recent weeks.
But what about the defense, in particular the Chargers' defense? Through 6 games, the Bolts have had just 10 sacks, ranking them 29th in the league. The biggest pass rush threat is Shaun Phillips but, like the Packers' Clay Matthews, he hasn't had much help from the rest of his crew. The Chargers minus-5 turnover differential is a reflection not only of how often their offense has shot itself in the foot, but that the defense only has recorded 7 turnovers in their first 6 games.
The Packers' brain trust has had two weeks to plan for this game. While there may be moments in this game that make you wonder what the heck's going on out there (paraphrasing a former Green Bay head coach whom you may have heard of), the only way the Packers lose is if they beat themselves. Look for the Pack to dial it up early and often on both sides of the ball.
We're calling this one 37-20 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
As all Packer fans are aware, the team is the only remaining undefeated team in the league at 7-0 and coming off their bye week. They should be well rested. The only players who were listed earlier in the week as definitely out were LT Chad Clifton and DE Mike Neal. Everyone else is available (although recall that rookie RB Alex Green was placed on the injured reserve list earlier in the week following his leg injury early in the game against the ViQueens; practice squad RB Brandon Saine took his spot on the 53-man roster). The Chargers, on the other hand, are coming off a short week after their Monday night loss at Kansas City. They are also injured.
Make no mistake, however, this could very well be a trap game for the Packers. The Bolts have looked bad in their last two consecutive game losses, especially last week against division rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs; they had penalties, turnovers, and you-name-it when they got near or into the red zone, particularly late in the game with a chance to win. The Chargers are 4-3, with the largest point loss being to the Patriots in week 2, 35-21; they are in every game. With QB Phil Rivers at the helm, huge receivers and one of the better tight ends in the game, the Chargers can present problems for a defense. Given the nature of the Packers "D" through the first 7 games of the schedule, unless things got tightened up over the bye and this last week of practice, it could be yet another tight but high-scoring game for both teams. In fact, Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers said this week that, “This is one of the best offenses we’ll face all year.”
This is a must-win type of game for the Chargers. If there is any game in which they will likely be at their best, this is it. As such, the Packers will also need to start fast, stay consistent, and finish strong in order to win this game. The Packers are the league's top scoring offense, at 32.9 points per game, and scoring at least 24 points in each game game so far, the only team in the league to accomplish that, as well. Driving this offense, as anyone who is even a mild observer of football knows, is QB Aaron Rodgers. He is the top quarterback in the league, at the moment. In fact, he's registered a quarterback rating of 110 or more in each of his 7 appearances so far this season -- the only quarterback in NFL history to do so! Oh, and did I mention that Rodgers just won another Offensive Player of the Month Award? But wait...there's more! Since last November -- LAST November -- nobody in the NFC other than Rodgers has won this award. A-wha...??? A-duh!!! Anytime, anywhere, Mr. Rodgers wants to do his "belt" routine, he's earned it.
The edge on offense has to go to the Packers, of course. Lots of weapons for the league's best passer -- and best player (there, I said it!) -- to choose from. Although when breaking things down, the edge in the running game goes to the double-headed San Diego rushing attack of Ryan Matthews and Mike Tolbert; the Packers will have to slow that threat down in order to keep the ball in Rivers hands and hopefully have him continue to make the kind of mistakes he has in recent weeks.
But what about the defense, in particular the Chargers' defense? Through 6 games, the Bolts have had just 10 sacks, ranking them 29th in the league. The biggest pass rush threat is Shaun Phillips but, like the Packers' Clay Matthews, he hasn't had much help from the rest of his crew. The Chargers minus-5 turnover differential is a reflection not only of how often their offense has shot itself in the foot, but that the defense only has recorded 7 turnovers in their first 6 games.
The Packers' brain trust has had two weeks to plan for this game. While there may be moments in this game that make you wonder what the heck's going on out there (paraphrasing a former Green Bay head coach whom you may have heard of), the only way the Packers lose is if they beat themselves. Look for the Pack to dial it up early and often on both sides of the ball.
We're calling this one 37-20 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Packers vs. Saints: just a few points
Finally getting the time to jot down just a few points about Thursday night's NFL season-opening extravaganza in Green Bay. A lot has already been said and written about the Packers 42-34 win over the Saints.
A quick summary: the Packers wowed many of the pundits who are ready to make them the odds-on favorites to be in the Super Bowl and likely win it. OK. I can go with that.
The Packers offense, to no one's surprise, is loaded with weapons for QB Aaron Rodgers to work with. If the opposing defense blitzes, he can generally find his hot receiver and beat it. If they play man-to-man, good luck. You might cover a couple of the receivers, but the Pack's number 3 and 4 receivers are better than the opponents third and fourth d-backs. Also, who's going to cover TE Jermichael Finley in man coverage? A linebacker? C'mon. If the defense goes into a zone scheme, Rodgers will go underneath all day long. Or start running Ryan Grant and James Starks to open up the downfield game. Bottom line regarding the Packers offense is this: if the Packers don't turn the ball over and stop themselves, opposing defensive coordinators will be having nightmares trying to figure out how to scheme against this explosive offense.
Now, there was a bit of an Achilles Heel in the offense which we saw last season at times and which reemerged against the Saints: the inability at the end of the game to pick up a needed first down to enable the team to run out the clock for the victory. Giving the Saints the ball back was...oh...not good. The Packers kept the Saints in the game when the Saints couldn't do it. The inability to convert that short third down play kept the Saints alive until that final goal line stop with no time left on the clock (an extra play due to what this observer thought was a horrible pass interference call on A.J. Hawk). The Packers have to be able to close out these games without giving the opponent one last shot to tie or win the game.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Packers gave up a bundle of yards. But, the Saints got inside the 20-yard line 5 times and came away with just 10 points. That was huge. The Packers, if memory serves, got inside the 20 four times and came away with touchdowns each time; that was the difference in the game. The defense came up big when it needed to. DE Jarius Wynn, replacing the injured Mike Neal, had a huge game, as did stalwarts Ryan Pickett, B.J. Raji and Howard Green. LB Erik Walden, getting his first start opposite Clay Matthews, also acquitted himself well. Linebackers did get beat in coverage on occasion. That's going to happen in a match-ups type game. The Packers secondary was also on its game for the most part, despite giving up some big yards. There really weren't many yards-after-catch type receptions against the secondary, despite some lengthy passes to the endzone against coverage.
One of the advantages of waiting a day or so to do a game review is that we have a better feel for injuries incurred during the game. The one which looked most concerning at the time was the injury to Tramon Williams. Williams actually got hit on the shoulder by Nick Collins as he was about to make a tackle in the second half. He left holding his arm, which is usually a sign of a dislocation or worse. According to the latest reports out of Green Bay, Williams emerged with a bruised shoulder, nothing worse. Whew. They are not sure whether he'll be available yet for the game versus the Panthers, but clearly the Packers dodged a bullet which could have had season-long implications for the defense.
As to special teams...as long as rookie Randall Cobb is returning kicks, it's a good thing. As long as the coverage units are as porous as a sieve, it's not a good thing. I have not been a fan of special teams coach Bob Slocum. Thought he should have been long gone a long time ago. Granted, he didn't know exactly who he was going to have to work with on an ongoing basis until about a week before the game. So we'll give him the benefit of the doubt. But if there is not significant improvement on this squad, Mason Crosby and Tim Masthay should be kicking and punting the ball out of bounds; the sideline will do a better job covering than will the Packers special teams unit. Let us pray...
My main area of concern is still the depth of the backups on the offensive line. The starters generally did a good job Thursday night, although Rodgers got hit much more than he should have been. But if anyone on the line goes down, there's not much experience to draw upon among the three backups. First-rounder Derek Sherrod was among the inactives for the game, which gives you a clue about just how far he needs to go to be the replacement for Chad Clifton at left tackle.
But, the Packers got their first win in an important conference match. A game which could be a precursor to the NFC Championship. Which, at least in head-to-head now, means the Saints would have to come to Green Bay in January. Oh wait...there are 15 more games to go. And a LOT of things can happen along the way.
The Packers go to Carolina to play the Panthers this next weekend. They'll be well-rested and well-prepared. Let's just make an early prediction that the Pack will be 2-0 coming out of that game.
It's great to be a Packers fan! Go Pack Go!!!
A quick summary: the Packers wowed many of the pundits who are ready to make them the odds-on favorites to be in the Super Bowl and likely win it. OK. I can go with that.
The Packers offense, to no one's surprise, is loaded with weapons for QB Aaron Rodgers to work with. If the opposing defense blitzes, he can generally find his hot receiver and beat it. If they play man-to-man, good luck. You might cover a couple of the receivers, but the Pack's number 3 and 4 receivers are better than the opponents third and fourth d-backs. Also, who's going to cover TE Jermichael Finley in man coverage? A linebacker? C'mon. If the defense goes into a zone scheme, Rodgers will go underneath all day long. Or start running Ryan Grant and James Starks to open up the downfield game. Bottom line regarding the Packers offense is this: if the Packers don't turn the ball over and stop themselves, opposing defensive coordinators will be having nightmares trying to figure out how to scheme against this explosive offense.
Now, there was a bit of an Achilles Heel in the offense which we saw last season at times and which reemerged against the Saints: the inability at the end of the game to pick up a needed first down to enable the team to run out the clock for the victory. Giving the Saints the ball back was...oh...not good. The Packers kept the Saints in the game when the Saints couldn't do it. The inability to convert that short third down play kept the Saints alive until that final goal line stop with no time left on the clock (an extra play due to what this observer thought was a horrible pass interference call on A.J. Hawk). The Packers have to be able to close out these games without giving the opponent one last shot to tie or win the game.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Packers gave up a bundle of yards. But, the Saints got inside the 20-yard line 5 times and came away with just 10 points. That was huge. The Packers, if memory serves, got inside the 20 four times and came away with touchdowns each time; that was the difference in the game. The defense came up big when it needed to. DE Jarius Wynn, replacing the injured Mike Neal, had a huge game, as did stalwarts Ryan Pickett, B.J. Raji and Howard Green. LB Erik Walden, getting his first start opposite Clay Matthews, also acquitted himself well. Linebackers did get beat in coverage on occasion. That's going to happen in a match-ups type game. The Packers secondary was also on its game for the most part, despite giving up some big yards. There really weren't many yards-after-catch type receptions against the secondary, despite some lengthy passes to the endzone against coverage.
One of the advantages of waiting a day or so to do a game review is that we have a better feel for injuries incurred during the game. The one which looked most concerning at the time was the injury to Tramon Williams. Williams actually got hit on the shoulder by Nick Collins as he was about to make a tackle in the second half. He left holding his arm, which is usually a sign of a dislocation or worse. According to the latest reports out of Green Bay, Williams emerged with a bruised shoulder, nothing worse. Whew. They are not sure whether he'll be available yet for the game versus the Panthers, but clearly the Packers dodged a bullet which could have had season-long implications for the defense.
As to special teams...as long as rookie Randall Cobb is returning kicks, it's a good thing. As long as the coverage units are as porous as a sieve, it's not a good thing. I have not been a fan of special teams coach Bob Slocum. Thought he should have been long gone a long time ago. Granted, he didn't know exactly who he was going to have to work with on an ongoing basis until about a week before the game. So we'll give him the benefit of the doubt. But if there is not significant improvement on this squad, Mason Crosby and Tim Masthay should be kicking and punting the ball out of bounds; the sideline will do a better job covering than will the Packers special teams unit. Let us pray...
My main area of concern is still the depth of the backups on the offensive line. The starters generally did a good job Thursday night, although Rodgers got hit much more than he should have been. But if anyone on the line goes down, there's not much experience to draw upon among the three backups. First-rounder Derek Sherrod was among the inactives for the game, which gives you a clue about just how far he needs to go to be the replacement for Chad Clifton at left tackle.
But, the Packers got their first win in an important conference match. A game which could be a precursor to the NFC Championship. Which, at least in head-to-head now, means the Saints would have to come to Green Bay in January. Oh wait...there are 15 more games to go. And a LOT of things can happen along the way.
The Packers go to Carolina to play the Panthers this next weekend. They'll be well-rested and well-prepared. Let's just make an early prediction that the Pack will be 2-0 coming out of that game.
It's great to be a Packers fan! Go Pack Go!!!
Sunday, August 07, 2011
Quick takes on Packers' quick practice
For the third time in four years, the Packers' Family Night event at Lambeau was shortened due to stormy weather rolling through. In effect, the glorified practice before more than 43,000 fans amounted to three drives by the number one offense versus the number two defense. It lasted perhaps about 20 minutes. But at least after the storm cleared, fans were treated to the promised fireworks...not of the football variety...real fireworks.
So, what can we take from this all-too-brief team scrimmage?
Firstly, rookie T/G Derek Sherrod, at 6'5" and 321 lbs., looked huge playing left guard, where the Packers have been working him extensively the first week of camp. Looks as if he has good movement. Definitely has the size to play left tackle but that is still veteran Chad Clifton's job, although Marshall Newhouse filled in at that spot last evening.
Second-year running back James Starks looks a bit bigger -- supposedly he added about 15 pounds of muscle according to some reports -- and extremely quick. He had a couple runs last evening, one in particular, where he waited for the lane to open and with what seemed like two quick steps was through the defense. Very fast and explosive. Great to see veteran Ryan Grant back, as well. But if Starks continues to display this combination of explosive moves and speed it might be hard to keep the ball out of his hands. Combined with Grant and rookie Alex Green -- who the coaches are also high on -- defenses will be hard pressed to defend both the run and the Packers' passing game.
Speaking of the passing game, it was great to see James Jones back. Jordy Nelson made a nice catch on a fade route in the endzone for a TD. And rookie Randall Cobb -- another one the coaches are pleased with at this point -- made a nice move on an underthrown ball. He's going to add another element for defenders to worry about downfield.
QB Aaron Rodgers looked as if he was getting into rhythm with new receivers and never missed a beat with his long-time receivers.
Defensively, we didn't get a chance to see the number ones last night. So can't really say much on this side of the ball. Except that undrafted rookie free agent CB Brandian Ross made a nice read on Aaron Rodgers' first pass of the evening, jumped it, and wound up getting an interception return for a pick-6 TD. No Lambeau Leap, though...hey, he's a rookie. He said in post-scrimmage comments that Charles Woodson, Tramon Williams and other veteran defensive backs had been helping him along. Appeared as if he was listening to whatever they were telling him. Given the logjam at cornerback, Ross might be a longshot to make the the team. But he's someone to keep your eye on. Seemed very thoughtful, respectful, and has instincts for the position. He'll have a job somewhere if not in Green Bay.
That's about all we could get out of last night's scrimmage. Unfortunately, especially for the rookies, they weren't able to get more repetitions. But Coach McCarthy and the Packers err on the side of keeping the players healthy and safe. The team is off today as, under the new collective bargaining agreement, they are only allowed to practice four days in a row. They'll be back to work Monday. Friday is an off day which will see the Super Bowl champs visiting the White House to be honored by the President (and Da Bearz fan). Saturday they'll be in Cleveland for the first preseason game of the new football year.
Football. You gotta love it. Glad it's back!
Go Pack Go!!!
So, what can we take from this all-too-brief team scrimmage?
Firstly, rookie T/G Derek Sherrod, at 6'5" and 321 lbs., looked huge playing left guard, where the Packers have been working him extensively the first week of camp. Looks as if he has good movement. Definitely has the size to play left tackle but that is still veteran Chad Clifton's job, although Marshall Newhouse filled in at that spot last evening.
Second-year running back James Starks looks a bit bigger -- supposedly he added about 15 pounds of muscle according to some reports -- and extremely quick. He had a couple runs last evening, one in particular, where he waited for the lane to open and with what seemed like two quick steps was through the defense. Very fast and explosive. Great to see veteran Ryan Grant back, as well. But if Starks continues to display this combination of explosive moves and speed it might be hard to keep the ball out of his hands. Combined with Grant and rookie Alex Green -- who the coaches are also high on -- defenses will be hard pressed to defend both the run and the Packers' passing game.
Speaking of the passing game, it was great to see James Jones back. Jordy Nelson made a nice catch on a fade route in the endzone for a TD. And rookie Randall Cobb -- another one the coaches are pleased with at this point -- made a nice move on an underthrown ball. He's going to add another element for defenders to worry about downfield.
QB Aaron Rodgers looked as if he was getting into rhythm with new receivers and never missed a beat with his long-time receivers.
Defensively, we didn't get a chance to see the number ones last night. So can't really say much on this side of the ball. Except that undrafted rookie free agent CB Brandian Ross made a nice read on Aaron Rodgers' first pass of the evening, jumped it, and wound up getting an interception return for a pick-6 TD. No Lambeau Leap, though...hey, he's a rookie. He said in post-scrimmage comments that Charles Woodson, Tramon Williams and other veteran defensive backs had been helping him along. Appeared as if he was listening to whatever they were telling him. Given the logjam at cornerback, Ross might be a longshot to make the the team. But he's someone to keep your eye on. Seemed very thoughtful, respectful, and has instincts for the position. He'll have a job somewhere if not in Green Bay.
That's about all we could get out of last night's scrimmage. Unfortunately, especially for the rookies, they weren't able to get more repetitions. But Coach McCarthy and the Packers err on the side of keeping the players healthy and safe. The team is off today as, under the new collective bargaining agreement, they are only allowed to practice four days in a row. They'll be back to work Monday. Friday is an off day which will see the Super Bowl champs visiting the White House to be honored by the President (and Da Bearz fan). Saturday they'll be in Cleveland for the first preseason game of the new football year.
Football. You gotta love it. Glad it's back!
Go Pack Go!!!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Packers pick up Hawaii running back Green
It's only appropriate that a running back with the last name Green goes to the Green Bay Packers: the Pack selected Hawaii RB Alex Green with the 96th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.
With depth seemingly more an issue on the defensive side of the ball than offense, GM Ted Thompson once again has confused the masses by going all offense in the first three rounds of the draft. Based upon his track record, he's right on track to continuing to improve the team in the best ways possible.
Let's review briefly. In the first round, Thompson picked up OT Derek Sherrod. With their only pick of the second round, the Packers chose WR Randall Cobb, who may also be the answer at punt and/or kick returner. And at the end of round three, Thompson got a running back, Alex Green from Hawaii. It was speculated that Thompson would make these position selections somewhere in the draft. With the exception of Sherrod in the first round, taking a receiver and running back with these selections may be a bit of a surprise. At least to the uninitiated. Which we all are compared to Thompson, let's be honest.
Thompson's draft board is set up to take the best player available. Obviously, at each of those picks Thompson took exactly that as he and his personnel and scouting team evaluated it.
With Sherrod, the Packers may have the successor to Chad Clifton when that day comes. With Cobb, the Pack adds to an already deep receiving corps and may provide insurance in case James Jones departs in free agency if and when that is in effect in some form for the upcoming season; they also have a returner. Finally, with Green, the Packers add a runner with size, balance and good hands to their backfield. He's not an every down runner, but in the Packers' scheme that's not necessary anyway. He will be a third-down type back who undoubtedly will challenge veteran Brandon Jackson for a roster spot.
It's the end of day two of the draft. If you are a Packers fan -- and I know you are! -- you have to be pleased with the new additions to the Super Bowl Champion team.
More tomorrow as the draft continues.
Go Pack Go!!!
With depth seemingly more an issue on the defensive side of the ball than offense, GM Ted Thompson once again has confused the masses by going all offense in the first three rounds of the draft. Based upon his track record, he's right on track to continuing to improve the team in the best ways possible.
Let's review briefly. In the first round, Thompson picked up OT Derek Sherrod. With their only pick of the second round, the Packers chose WR Randall Cobb, who may also be the answer at punt and/or kick returner. And at the end of round three, Thompson got a running back, Alex Green from Hawaii. It was speculated that Thompson would make these position selections somewhere in the draft. With the exception of Sherrod in the first round, taking a receiver and running back with these selections may be a bit of a surprise. At least to the uninitiated. Which we all are compared to Thompson, let's be honest.
Thompson's draft board is set up to take the best player available. Obviously, at each of those picks Thompson took exactly that as he and his personnel and scouting team evaluated it.
With Sherrod, the Packers may have the successor to Chad Clifton when that day comes. With Cobb, the Pack adds to an already deep receiving corps and may provide insurance in case James Jones departs in free agency if and when that is in effect in some form for the upcoming season; they also have a returner. Finally, with Green, the Packers add a runner with size, balance and good hands to their backfield. He's not an every down runner, but in the Packers' scheme that's not necessary anyway. He will be a third-down type back who undoubtedly will challenge veteran Brandon Jackson for a roster spot.
It's the end of day two of the draft. If you are a Packers fan -- and I know you are! -- you have to be pleased with the new additions to the Super Bowl Champion team.
More tomorrow as the draft continues.
Go Pack Go!!!
Packers "protect the franchise" with draft pick
With the 32nd and final pick of the 2011 NFL Draft's first round, the Green Bay Packers selected Mississippi State offensive tackle Derek Sherrod. Or, as Packers' linebacker extraordinaire, Clay Matthews, Tweeted after the selection, "protect the franchise." And if anyone needs reminding to whom that refers look no further than QB Aaron Rodgers. Yes, even the Claymaker -- who no doubt was salivating at the idea of adding to the defense some of the great defensive ends and linebackers still on the board -- recognized the need to make sure Rodgers stays healthy and upright as the key to the Pack's future success.
Combined with last year's first round pick, Bryan Bulaga, some pundits -- including yours truly (OK, self-described pundit) -- think the Pack may have their bookened tackles for the next decade. Who plays right or left at this point doesn't matter. The point is, the Packers now have two very large and capable players to anchor both ends of the offensive line. While Sherrod may compete for a starting role, as long as Chad Clifton stays on the field there will be no rush to insert him into the starting line.
One thing they say you can't teach is big. And big is what Sherrod is: 6'5-1/2" and 315 pounds. He was a three-year starter at Mississippi State. Arguably, Sherrod was the best run blocker on one of the best running teams in the SEC. You also can't teach smart. Sherrod has already graduated, and did so with a 3.54-grade point average. He is also reportedly enrolled in a Masters program and has stated a goal of completing that program. Sherrod seems to have many of the qualities which the Packers not only value on the field but also in the locker room.
You can read more about Sherrod as the heir apparent to Clifton here. If you wish to read what various scouts and other observers have to say about him, you can do so here.
The feeling here is that, failing to have Alabama running back Mark Ingram fall into their lap (taken by New Orleans at #28 via trade with the Patriots...dang!), the Packers made a key addition to the team. Yes, they took a step to protect the franchise for a long time to come. Now, in the upcoming rounds, they can look to add depth on the defensive line, outside linebacker, and defensive backs. And, if they also happen to hit on a running back or wide receiver/returner along the way, that would be just fine, too. All of that is quite possible given the nature of this draft. Barring trade moves up or down, the Packers will select at #64 and #96 during the second and third rounds of the draft this evening.
Go Pack Go!!!
Combined with last year's first round pick, Bryan Bulaga, some pundits -- including yours truly (OK, self-described pundit) -- think the Pack may have their bookened tackles for the next decade. Who plays right or left at this point doesn't matter. The point is, the Packers now have two very large and capable players to anchor both ends of the offensive line. While Sherrod may compete for a starting role, as long as Chad Clifton stays on the field there will be no rush to insert him into the starting line.
One thing they say you can't teach is big. And big is what Sherrod is: 6'5-1/2" and 315 pounds. He was a three-year starter at Mississippi State. Arguably, Sherrod was the best run blocker on one of the best running teams in the SEC. You also can't teach smart. Sherrod has already graduated, and did so with a 3.54-grade point average. He is also reportedly enrolled in a Masters program and has stated a goal of completing that program. Sherrod seems to have many of the qualities which the Packers not only value on the field but also in the locker room.
You can read more about Sherrod as the heir apparent to Clifton here. If you wish to read what various scouts and other observers have to say about him, you can do so here.
The feeling here is that, failing to have Alabama running back Mark Ingram fall into their lap (taken by New Orleans at #28 via trade with the Patriots...dang!), the Packers made a key addition to the team. Yes, they took a step to protect the franchise for a long time to come. Now, in the upcoming rounds, they can look to add depth on the defensive line, outside linebacker, and defensive backs. And, if they also happen to hit on a running back or wide receiver/returner along the way, that would be just fine, too. All of that is quite possible given the nature of this draft. Barring trade moves up or down, the Packers will select at #64 and #96 during the second and third rounds of the draft this evening.
Go Pack Go!!!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Five Packers named to Pro Bowl
The Pro Bowl selections have been announced by the NFL, and five Green Bay Packers were named to the team: left tackle Chad Clifton, safety Nick Collins, wide receiver Greg Jennings, linebacker Clay Matthews and cornerback Charles Woodson. Collins, Matthews and Woodson were named starters for the NFC squad.
What about QB Aaron Rodgers? Or CB Tramon Williams? Well you may ask. They were named as first alternates.
Yes, it is a bizarro world indeed where Rodgers and Williams are "alternates." That should go on one of the ESPN segments of "C'mon, Man!".
Other alternates include wide receiver Donald Driver, linebacker A.J. Hawk, nose tackle B.J. Raji and guard Josh Sitton.
You can read more about the selections here.
What about QB Aaron Rodgers? Or CB Tramon Williams? Well you may ask. They were named as first alternates.
Yes, it is a bizarro world indeed where Rodgers and Williams are "alternates." That should go on one of the ESPN segments of "C'mon, Man!".
Other alternates include wide receiver Donald Driver, linebacker A.J. Hawk, nose tackle B.J. Raji and guard Josh Sitton.
You can read more about the selections here.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Packers vs. Lions Preview
As a blizzard is set to hit Wisconsin, the Green Bay Packers are set to hit the Lions in Detroit. The Pack took to the air in time to beat the snowstorm. Still, a few players will not be on the field Sunday when gametime arrives. Key among them from the Packers' standpoint is DE Cullen Jenkins; he strained a calf muscle in last weekend's game vs. the 49ers. Trying to fill that sizable void on the D-line will be C. J. Wilson and Jarius Wynn. It's possible Howard Green might also be moved around in the rotation as well with B. J. Raji and Ryan Pickett.
But it's not the running game that is of primary concern from a defensive standpoint. It's the passing game of the Lions. And even though their starting quarterback, Matthew Stafford, is still sidelined, the backup to the backup, Drew Stanton, is a serviceable QB. Kinda like Jay Cutler...on a good day. (Ouch!) More importantly, whoever is tossing the ball in Motor City has WR Calvin Johnson on his side. His size and speed make him the Lions' main offensive weapon. But he's not the only one. TE Brandon Pettigrew benefits from Johnson opening things up. He's a big tight end, although not fast. Since linebackers A. J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop will likely wind up covering him, he may get some opportunities. But he should be able to be kept in check.
While a few Packers won't be on the field this time around, there was at least some good news going into the game: it appears that LT Chad Clifton is cleared to play, and the ankle sprain sustained during practice this week by Charles Woodson was not as serious as initially suspected; he'll also likely be good to go Sunday...it's a game in Michigan, right? Woodson won't miss that one!
The Packers are 10-4 in dome games under head coach Mike McCarthy. Is it surprising? The Packers offense is geared to the air game. And there's no better place to air out the ball, especially in December, than inside. I know, I know, that's almost heresy in Packerland. But given perfect conditions in which to throw the ball, guess what's going to happen? The Packers are going to light up the Lions, particularly given the sorry state of Detroit's secondary. QB Aaron Rodgers will have a big day, as will his receiving corps. Toss in a seemingly resurgent (yes, for the Packers that does mean just one game) running game with rookie James Starks and the Pack will be far more than the Lions can handle, even if they do happen to make it a game for a while.
Coach McCarthy, if memory serves, is 9-0 against the Lions. Sunday will make it 10-0. Despite the final score of the first meeting this season, most games aren't that close. The Packers are currently favored by 6-1/2 points. They'll take care of that going away.
What's my prediction on the final score? You'll have to check back Sunday morning for that. Barring a blizzard-born power outage, you'll get my call then.
For now...Go Pack Go!!!
But it's not the running game that is of primary concern from a defensive standpoint. It's the passing game of the Lions. And even though their starting quarterback, Matthew Stafford, is still sidelined, the backup to the backup, Drew Stanton, is a serviceable QB. Kinda like Jay Cutler...on a good day. (Ouch!) More importantly, whoever is tossing the ball in Motor City has WR Calvin Johnson on his side. His size and speed make him the Lions' main offensive weapon. But he's not the only one. TE Brandon Pettigrew benefits from Johnson opening things up. He's a big tight end, although not fast. Since linebackers A. J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop will likely wind up covering him, he may get some opportunities. But he should be able to be kept in check.
While a few Packers won't be on the field this time around, there was at least some good news going into the game: it appears that LT Chad Clifton is cleared to play, and the ankle sprain sustained during practice this week by Charles Woodson was not as serious as initially suspected; he'll also likely be good to go Sunday...it's a game in Michigan, right? Woodson won't miss that one!
The Packers are 10-4 in dome games under head coach Mike McCarthy. Is it surprising? The Packers offense is geared to the air game. And there's no better place to air out the ball, especially in December, than inside. I know, I know, that's almost heresy in Packerland. But given perfect conditions in which to throw the ball, guess what's going to happen? The Packers are going to light up the Lions, particularly given the sorry state of Detroit's secondary. QB Aaron Rodgers will have a big day, as will his receiving corps. Toss in a seemingly resurgent (yes, for the Packers that does mean just one game) running game with rookie James Starks and the Pack will be far more than the Lions can handle, even if they do happen to make it a game for a while.
Coach McCarthy, if memory serves, is 9-0 against the Lions. Sunday will make it 10-0. Despite the final score of the first meeting this season, most games aren't that close. The Packers are currently favored by 6-1/2 points. They'll take care of that going away.
What's my prediction on the final score? You'll have to check back Sunday morning for that. Barring a blizzard-born power outage, you'll get my call then.
For now...Go Pack Go!!!
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Packers at mid-week
We've all had time to bask in the glow of a nice beat-down of the 49ers by our beloved Green Bay Packers last Sunday. After a bit of a sputtering first quarter or so, the offense clicked and the bend-don't-break defense did what it's been doing pretty much all season. We got to see Donald Driver make a TD catch and run that goes down in the all-time highlight reel. We saw a rookie running back, James Starks, finally get on the field for the Pack and rush for the most yards -- 73 -- by a Packer in a rookie debut since 1948. We saw QB Aaron Rodgers continue his streak of games and passes without an interception: 5 and 177 respectively. Oh, and that last one is now second in Packers' history behind Bart Starr. We saw WR Greg Jennings continue to light things up in a big way.
Unfortunately, though, the Packers lost DE Cullen Jenkins for at least a few weeks with a calf strain. And practice this week revealed that LT Chad Clifton actually sustained a concussion during the game, so he is going through the league protocol this week required to be cleared to play this coming Sunday. He did a jog-through at Wednesday's practice and that's usually seen as a good sign of being cleared to play in the next game. But Wednesday's practice also saw CB Charles Woodson depart the field with an ankle sprain, the severity of which is still unknown...or at least, undiscussed at this moment.
So, the Packers are on a bit of a roll. The upcoming opponent, the Detroit Lions, hmmm...not so much. To their credit, it's a 2-10 team that really should have a few more wins under their belt (e.g., remember the TD catch in Chicago to win that was overturned???). But they don't know how to close out games. This weekend's game versus the Packers is not the time for them to start figuring that out.
Observers and the Packers themselves know this will be a hard-fought game. The Lions, lest we forget, gave the Packers everything in a frightful near-comeback on Oct. 3. The Pack wound up winning by just 2 points while grinding out the clock. The Lions scored the most points against the Packers of any opponent the Packers have faced so far. They also racked up the most offensive yardage. Of course, this was also early in the season when the Packers were still adjusting to the onslaught of injuries on both sides of the ball. As we approach this week's game, the Packers have made their adjustments. If the players are focused -- and you can be sure coach Mike McCarthy and his assistants will have them very focused -- this game should not be in doubt. The Lions will give it all they have for as long as they can. But if the Packers get off to a fast start for a change, the game should be over long before it's over, if you know what I mean. And I think you do.
We'll do a more detailed preview closer to game time. So keep checking back for more.
Also, follow us on Twitter for more regular quick hits. Just click the icon in the righthand column, or click here. Or check the Twitter scroll here for the Tweets.
Unfortunately, though, the Packers lost DE Cullen Jenkins for at least a few weeks with a calf strain. And practice this week revealed that LT Chad Clifton actually sustained a concussion during the game, so he is going through the league protocol this week required to be cleared to play this coming Sunday. He did a jog-through at Wednesday's practice and that's usually seen as a good sign of being cleared to play in the next game. But Wednesday's practice also saw CB Charles Woodson depart the field with an ankle sprain, the severity of which is still unknown...or at least, undiscussed at this moment.
So, the Packers are on a bit of a roll. The upcoming opponent, the Detroit Lions, hmmm...not so much. To their credit, it's a 2-10 team that really should have a few more wins under their belt (e.g., remember the TD catch in Chicago to win that was overturned???). But they don't know how to close out games. This weekend's game versus the Packers is not the time for them to start figuring that out.
Observers and the Packers themselves know this will be a hard-fought game. The Lions, lest we forget, gave the Packers everything in a frightful near-comeback on Oct. 3. The Pack wound up winning by just 2 points while grinding out the clock. The Lions scored the most points against the Packers of any opponent the Packers have faced so far. They also racked up the most offensive yardage. Of course, this was also early in the season when the Packers were still adjusting to the onslaught of injuries on both sides of the ball. As we approach this week's game, the Packers have made their adjustments. If the players are focused -- and you can be sure coach Mike McCarthy and his assistants will have them very focused -- this game should not be in doubt. The Lions will give it all they have for as long as they can. But if the Packers get off to a fast start for a change, the game should be over long before it's over, if you know what I mean. And I think you do.
We'll do a more detailed preview closer to game time. So keep checking back for more.
Also, follow us on Twitter for more regular quick hits. Just click the icon in the righthand column, or click here. Or check the Twitter scroll here for the Tweets.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Packers beat Favre and Vikings...finally!
As the football world knows today, the Green Bay Packers -- depleted by injuries coming into the game and wounded even more throughout it -- prevailed last evening over their border rival Minnesota Vikings, 28-24.
This was a much-needed win, a character win, as they say. What else can you call a game where you overcome two turnovers by your own QB in or near the red zone by getting three interceptions of your own and holding the opponent scoreless in the final 15 minutes of play? Where you have only one of your starting defensive lineman still playing at the end of the game? Where backups on offense and defense -- in some cases, players way down on the depth charts -- had to perform at a level and on a national stage they never had before?
Yes, character. That's what this game was about. Granted, it was also about getting a win against a divisional opponent that the Pack will be battling for the NFC North title (yes, we are writing off Da Bearz and Lions as contenders...I mean, c'mon...). But a game like this can go a long way to bringing a team together perhaps in a way which nothing else can. Injuries have made the journey to the playoffs and Super Bowl not what anyone expected prior to the start of the season. The games to date have not been pretty. And a couple were giftwrapped for the opponent. Last evening had it's ugly moments as well. How many times, for example, were Aaron Rodgers and his receivers running apparently different plays? Looked occasionally as if Rodgers was using the Jay Cutler Pocket Guide to Being a Mediocre Quarterback. But he threw for nearly 300 yards. And many of his passes that were on target were, dare I say, Favre-esque in their zippiness (is that a word?). In his post-game comments, Rodgers admitted the game meant not only a lot to the team but to him personally. I bet. Exorcising the ghost of quarterbacks past is no small thing. Especially in Green Bay.
Rodgers and company did enough on offense, despite missing opportunities to score which has been an unsettling and ongoing trend to date. Head coach Mike McCarthy mixed up his play calling enough to keep the ViQueens defense from blitzing on every play. The running backs made just enough contributions. Veteran TE Donald Lee came up large on two screen passes. And WR James Jones was the receiver du jour, also making big plays. Huge kudos to LT Chad Clifton who made 'Queens DE Jared Allen a non-factor. Yes, Allen got that one interception handed to him...almost literally; but that was on Rodgers, not Clifton. Rookie RT Bryan Bulaga, filling in admirably for the still injured Mark Tauscher, also held up his end of the line. All together, the Packers offensive line held up well, and that was a big difference over last season's two meetings with the funky purple folks. The only disappointment, as Rodgers himself noted, was that Donald Driver was unable to get a catch, snapping his 133 consecutive game streak. Hampered as he was with a quad injury, it was to Driver's credit that he was even on the field. Warrior. That's Donald Driver. And that was this entire Packers team last evening.
Ol' #4 for the 'Queens was also looking very old limping out of Lambeau. He got knocked around quite a bit last night, something that didn't happen at all in the meetings of last year. Sure, there was only one sack recorded (by Jarius Wynn, who just recently rejoined the team). But C. J. Wilson got a great lick on Favre, and Clay Matthews was breathing down his neck most of the night. All that pressure led, not surprisingly, to Favre mistakes. Interceptions by A. J. Hawk, Desmond Bishop (returned for a TD!) and an acrobatic Nick Collins (who promised his young son he'd get a pick in the game) helped turn the game in favor of the Pack.
Favre was feeling and looking every bit the grandfather he is as he left to a mix of applause and boos (bad show on that note, by the way, fans). Favre said in his post-game comments that he was "devastated" by the loss. With all the off-the-field mess going on around him, this was -- to quote Packers' radio voice, Wayne Larrivee -- no doubt a "dagger" that he was looking to avoid.
Think about it. Favre's last time on the field as a Packer was a loss. And now, in all likelihood, his last time on this hallowed field as a player is also a loss. Ouch. Hopefully, when all the dust settles and time soothes the wounds on both sides of things, Brett will be welcomed back to Lambeau Field with cheers, the same kind he brought to life for so many years wearing the Green 'n' Gold. It will happen again someday. But on this night, before the third-largest crowd to ever see a game at this historic venue called Lambeau Field, the cheers rightly went to the home team for an outstanding and gutsy win.
Now, the Packers have a day off and then begin to get ready for their next opponent: the Jets. On the road. The Jets are, at this stage of the season, arguably one of the better teams in the league. The Packers are still beat up. Going on the road and winning after this emotional victory will be a challenge. But we can at least now be confident that this team knows how to face such challenges and come out on top.
Let's just enjoy this victory a while longer. We'll get back to worrying about the Jets later this week.
Say it with me: It's great to be a Packer fan!
By the way, if you want to read a great article on last night's game, check out this one from Gregg Rosenthal at ProFootballTalk.com. But whatever you do, be sure to read the comments which follow. Priceless.
This was a much-needed win, a character win, as they say. What else can you call a game where you overcome two turnovers by your own QB in or near the red zone by getting three interceptions of your own and holding the opponent scoreless in the final 15 minutes of play? Where you have only one of your starting defensive lineman still playing at the end of the game? Where backups on offense and defense -- in some cases, players way down on the depth charts -- had to perform at a level and on a national stage they never had before?
Yes, character. That's what this game was about. Granted, it was also about getting a win against a divisional opponent that the Pack will be battling for the NFC North title (yes, we are writing off Da Bearz and Lions as contenders...I mean, c'mon...). But a game like this can go a long way to bringing a team together perhaps in a way which nothing else can. Injuries have made the journey to the playoffs and Super Bowl not what anyone expected prior to the start of the season. The games to date have not been pretty. And a couple were giftwrapped for the opponent. Last evening had it's ugly moments as well. How many times, for example, were Aaron Rodgers and his receivers running apparently different plays? Looked occasionally as if Rodgers was using the Jay Cutler Pocket Guide to Being a Mediocre Quarterback. But he threw for nearly 300 yards. And many of his passes that were on target were, dare I say, Favre-esque in their zippiness (is that a word?). In his post-game comments, Rodgers admitted the game meant not only a lot to the team but to him personally. I bet. Exorcising the ghost of quarterbacks past is no small thing. Especially in Green Bay.
Rodgers and company did enough on offense, despite missing opportunities to score which has been an unsettling and ongoing trend to date. Head coach Mike McCarthy mixed up his play calling enough to keep the ViQueens defense from blitzing on every play. The running backs made just enough contributions. Veteran TE Donald Lee came up large on two screen passes. And WR James Jones was the receiver du jour, also making big plays. Huge kudos to LT Chad Clifton who made 'Queens DE Jared Allen a non-factor. Yes, Allen got that one interception handed to him...almost literally; but that was on Rodgers, not Clifton. Rookie RT Bryan Bulaga, filling in admirably for the still injured Mark Tauscher, also held up his end of the line. All together, the Packers offensive line held up well, and that was a big difference over last season's two meetings with the funky purple folks. The only disappointment, as Rodgers himself noted, was that Donald Driver was unable to get a catch, snapping his 133 consecutive game streak. Hampered as he was with a quad injury, it was to Driver's credit that he was even on the field. Warrior. That's Donald Driver. And that was this entire Packers team last evening.
Ol' #4 for the 'Queens was also looking very old limping out of Lambeau. He got knocked around quite a bit last night, something that didn't happen at all in the meetings of last year. Sure, there was only one sack recorded (by Jarius Wynn, who just recently rejoined the team). But C. J. Wilson got a great lick on Favre, and Clay Matthews was breathing down his neck most of the night. All that pressure led, not surprisingly, to Favre mistakes. Interceptions by A. J. Hawk, Desmond Bishop (returned for a TD!) and an acrobatic Nick Collins (who promised his young son he'd get a pick in the game) helped turn the game in favor of the Pack.
Favre was feeling and looking every bit the grandfather he is as he left to a mix of applause and boos (bad show on that note, by the way, fans). Favre said in his post-game comments that he was "devastated" by the loss. With all the off-the-field mess going on around him, this was -- to quote Packers' radio voice, Wayne Larrivee -- no doubt a "dagger" that he was looking to avoid.
Think about it. Favre's last time on the field as a Packer was a loss. And now, in all likelihood, his last time on this hallowed field as a player is also a loss. Ouch. Hopefully, when all the dust settles and time soothes the wounds on both sides of things, Brett will be welcomed back to Lambeau Field with cheers, the same kind he brought to life for so many years wearing the Green 'n' Gold. It will happen again someday. But on this night, before the third-largest crowd to ever see a game at this historic venue called Lambeau Field, the cheers rightly went to the home team for an outstanding and gutsy win.
Now, the Packers have a day off and then begin to get ready for their next opponent: the Jets. On the road. The Jets are, at this stage of the season, arguably one of the better teams in the league. The Packers are still beat up. Going on the road and winning after this emotional victory will be a challenge. But we can at least now be confident that this team knows how to face such challenges and come out on top.
Let's just enjoy this victory a while longer. We'll get back to worrying about the Jets later this week.
Say it with me: It's great to be a Packer fan!
By the way, if you want to read a great article on last night's game, check out this one from Gregg Rosenthal at ProFootballTalk.com. But whatever you do, be sure to read the comments which follow. Priceless.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Packers vs. Da Bearz Monday Night Preview
Yesterday, we offered an overview of the well-known rivalry between our beloved Green Bay Packers and that team from south of the border, Da Bearz. Today, with less than 10 hours to kickoff, we offer our take on what we might expect to go down tonight in ChiTown.
Yesterday's pre-preview concluded with the statement that this will be one of those old fashioned smash-mouth games. Players on both sides will be hitting the whirlpool and ice tub heavy tomorrow. There is a lot on the line tonight: not only leadership atop the NFC North but also the NFC...whichever team wins tonight will be the only 3-0 team in the conference. Now really, should that be Da Bearz? Of course not. And it won't be.
So let's break this down a bit.
Packers offense vs. Bearz defense -- edge to the Pack. Da Bearz defense, especially the front 7, isn't bad. They are good at stopping the run. But since the running game is not what the Packers rely on anyway, that advantage for Chicago basically goes by the board. Julius Peppers can create problems, although he also is known to take plays off. Expect him to rotate to both sides of the line. But Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher are veteran tackles who have played against him before and know what to expect. In general, especially during those games when Peppers was with Carolina, both Cliffie and Tausch have held up well. One of the question marks tonight, however, is how well Clifton's ailing knee will hold up. According to the injury report, he's listed as probable for tonight which means he will likely get the start. But if Peppers starts to get to QB Aaron Rodgers through Clifton, look for head coach Mike McCarthy to pull the plug quickly and insert rookie Bryan Bulaga. Da Bearz linebacking corps, especially with Urlacher back in the middle, can also create problems of course. It's Da Bearz secondary that is really questionable, which bodes well for the Pack's air attack which we all know can cause opponents fits. The Packers receivers and tight ends, as well as running backs, can all open up opportunities. The key will be to protect Rodgers so he and the receivers can shred Da Bearz secondary.
Bearz offense against Packers defense -- edge to the Pack. Da Bearz offensive line, so far, has protected QB Jay Cutler better than expected. Note that the operative phrase there was "so far." They haven't come up against a defense like the Pack yet this season. So while Cutler is off to a better start than anyone expected, he'll come back to earth tonight. Those 5- and 7-step drops that offensive coordinator Mike Martz has him making might work well against some teams. But against the Pack, it just means that his O-line is somehow going to have to hold their blocks longer against the Pack's pressure defense. By the way, this is the very first time that Bearz offensive coordinator Mike Martz has come up against Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers. Imagine that! In all the years and various positions, including head coaching gigs, this is the first time the two have met up. Sets the stage for a great chess match. But Capers has more artillery to bring to the game. Look for LB Clay Matthews to continue his sack-a-thon. As the Pack defense pressures Cutler he'll start to force things, which means turnover opportunities. Matt Forte is a good running back, who is also Da Bearz leading receiver coming into this game. TE Greg Olsen is a very good tight end. But the Packers "D" will hold Da Bearz in check.
Special teams -- edge Bearz. This is close to a draw. The Pack upgraded its punter this season, K Mason Crosby regained his confidence, and the return game got an unexpected boost from Jordy Nelson. The Pack's coverage units, to date, have also generally performed well. But Da Bearz also have a good punter and kicker, and the slight edge has to go to Da Bearz returners.
So, two out of three segments of the game favor the Pack, with nearly a draw in terms of special teams.
The Packers are favored by 3 points and the over/under for the game is listed at 46. Most pundits are picking the Pack to win, and I've seen predictions of anywhere from a 1- to 13-point winning margin.
The score which has been rolling around in my head consistently for a couple days has been Packers over Da Bearz 24-20. So I'll go with that. But if the Packers play up to what they are capable of, that margin could be wider by at least another touchdown.
Go Pack Go!!!
Yesterday's pre-preview concluded with the statement that this will be one of those old fashioned smash-mouth games. Players on both sides will be hitting the whirlpool and ice tub heavy tomorrow. There is a lot on the line tonight: not only leadership atop the NFC North but also the NFC...whichever team wins tonight will be the only 3-0 team in the conference. Now really, should that be Da Bearz? Of course not. And it won't be.
So let's break this down a bit.
Packers offense vs. Bearz defense -- edge to the Pack. Da Bearz defense, especially the front 7, isn't bad. They are good at stopping the run. But since the running game is not what the Packers rely on anyway, that advantage for Chicago basically goes by the board. Julius Peppers can create problems, although he also is known to take plays off. Expect him to rotate to both sides of the line. But Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher are veteran tackles who have played against him before and know what to expect. In general, especially during those games when Peppers was with Carolina, both Cliffie and Tausch have held up well. One of the question marks tonight, however, is how well Clifton's ailing knee will hold up. According to the injury report, he's listed as probable for tonight which means he will likely get the start. But if Peppers starts to get to QB Aaron Rodgers through Clifton, look for head coach Mike McCarthy to pull the plug quickly and insert rookie Bryan Bulaga. Da Bearz linebacking corps, especially with Urlacher back in the middle, can also create problems of course. It's Da Bearz secondary that is really questionable, which bodes well for the Pack's air attack which we all know can cause opponents fits. The Packers receivers and tight ends, as well as running backs, can all open up opportunities. The key will be to protect Rodgers so he and the receivers can shred Da Bearz secondary.
Bearz offense against Packers defense -- edge to the Pack. Da Bearz offensive line, so far, has protected QB Jay Cutler better than expected. Note that the operative phrase there was "so far." They haven't come up against a defense like the Pack yet this season. So while Cutler is off to a better start than anyone expected, he'll come back to earth tonight. Those 5- and 7-step drops that offensive coordinator Mike Martz has him making might work well against some teams. But against the Pack, it just means that his O-line is somehow going to have to hold their blocks longer against the Pack's pressure defense. By the way, this is the very first time that Bearz offensive coordinator Mike Martz has come up against Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers. Imagine that! In all the years and various positions, including head coaching gigs, this is the first time the two have met up. Sets the stage for a great chess match. But Capers has more artillery to bring to the game. Look for LB Clay Matthews to continue his sack-a-thon. As the Pack defense pressures Cutler he'll start to force things, which means turnover opportunities. Matt Forte is a good running back, who is also Da Bearz leading receiver coming into this game. TE Greg Olsen is a very good tight end. But the Packers "D" will hold Da Bearz in check.
Special teams -- edge Bearz. This is close to a draw. The Pack upgraded its punter this season, K Mason Crosby regained his confidence, and the return game got an unexpected boost from Jordy Nelson. The Pack's coverage units, to date, have also generally performed well. But Da Bearz also have a good punter and kicker, and the slight edge has to go to Da Bearz returners.
So, two out of three segments of the game favor the Pack, with nearly a draw in terms of special teams.
The Packers are favored by 3 points and the over/under for the game is listed at 46. Most pundits are picking the Pack to win, and I've seen predictions of anywhere from a 1- to 13-point winning margin.
The score which has been rolling around in my head consistently for a couple days has been Packers over Da Bearz 24-20. So I'll go with that. But if the Packers play up to what they are capable of, that margin could be wider by at least another touchdown.
Go Pack Go!!!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Packers vs. Bills day after look-see
Getting this post-post-game review up a bit late today. And still don't have enough time to do it justice. So hope you bear with me. This will just be a bit of random access memory going on here. You know, stuff in no particular order of importance. Just looking at the Green Bay Packers following game #2.
The venerable veteran LT Chad Clifton may be on the outside looking in, at least until his ailing knee allows him to perform at a better level than he did yesterday. Or until rookie Bryan Bulaga falls on his face replacing him. Given that Bulaga held up well yesterday, I would speculate that Bulaga will get the starting nod against Da Bearz on Monday night. Yes, it will be an entirely different level than versus the Bills. But given the problems Cliffie was having against the same defense, Bulaga's time might have already come. The Packers still need Clifton. But an ailing knee might just be Bulaga's opening, with Clifton then serving in the backup role. Clifton's got a lot of pride, so whether that's a role he would willingly take or not, remains to be seen. There are a couple interesting articles about Clifton's status on the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's online site. Check them out here and here.
For as much as some folks want to package and trade LB A.J. Hawk for a running back (and, yes, it has even been mentioned within the confines of this very blog), Hawk performed very well in yesterday's game. He seemed to always be around the ball one way or another. According to final stats, Hawk tied LB Nick Barnett with a game-high nine tackles. Hawk also had two quarterback hits and was very close to a sack or two, as well. Hawk was very solid in this scheme, a scheme other than which was played in Philadelphia a week earlier in which he saw no snaps at all. For those fans who think the Pack would part with Hawk for a running back, especially after yesterday, don't hold your breath.
Speaking of running backs, the total yardage gained by Packers running backs yesterday was thoroughly underwhelming. When John Kuhn get more yards than the back who supposedly is now the featured back following Ryan Grant's season-ending injury...and with all due respect to Kuhn...that's not good. Yes, the Packers are and will be a primarily pass-oriented team. But even with that same mentality the last few years, Grant was still able to chalk up two 1,200+ yard seasons back to back. Brandon Jackson is going to have to kick it up a notch to help keep defenses honest and to keep them from all-out blitzes on Aaron Rodgers every single play. With another week under his belt, newcomer Dimitri Nance might get more playing time. He was in for a couple plays yesterday. No mistakes, that was about the best that could be said. Head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters after the game that running back by committee is not ideal. But at the same time, he very much sounded as if that would be the way it goes at least for a while. Check out this article for more.
Oh, and isn't it interesting that things are so quiet in terms of chatter about the Packers' special teams? Guess that means folks are generally happy with what they see. Certainly Jordy Nelson is doing a very good job so far of setting the Pack up in good field position following a kick off.
And last but not least...Clay Matthews. The guy is a beast. Three more sacks yesterday to go to six on the season. In 15 regular season games, Matthews has 15 sacks. At this pace...wow.
This is about all we time for at the moment, folks. But keep checking back for more. In the meantime, why not cast your vote in the poll in the righthand column about the best nickname being floated for LB Clay Matthews? Yes, these are seemingly the two most popular names being tossed about: "Manimal" and "Claymaker". Let us know what you think.
The venerable veteran LT Chad Clifton may be on the outside looking in, at least until his ailing knee allows him to perform at a better level than he did yesterday. Or until rookie Bryan Bulaga falls on his face replacing him. Given that Bulaga held up well yesterday, I would speculate that Bulaga will get the starting nod against Da Bearz on Monday night. Yes, it will be an entirely different level than versus the Bills. But given the problems Cliffie was having against the same defense, Bulaga's time might have already come. The Packers still need Clifton. But an ailing knee might just be Bulaga's opening, with Clifton then serving in the backup role. Clifton's got a lot of pride, so whether that's a role he would willingly take or not, remains to be seen. There are a couple interesting articles about Clifton's status on the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's online site. Check them out here and here.
For as much as some folks want to package and trade LB A.J. Hawk for a running back (and, yes, it has even been mentioned within the confines of this very blog), Hawk performed very well in yesterday's game. He seemed to always be around the ball one way or another. According to final stats, Hawk tied LB Nick Barnett with a game-high nine tackles. Hawk also had two quarterback hits and was very close to a sack or two, as well. Hawk was very solid in this scheme, a scheme other than which was played in Philadelphia a week earlier in which he saw no snaps at all. For those fans who think the Pack would part with Hawk for a running back, especially after yesterday, don't hold your breath.
Speaking of running backs, the total yardage gained by Packers running backs yesterday was thoroughly underwhelming. When John Kuhn get more yards than the back who supposedly is now the featured back following Ryan Grant's season-ending injury...and with all due respect to Kuhn...that's not good. Yes, the Packers are and will be a primarily pass-oriented team. But even with that same mentality the last few years, Grant was still able to chalk up two 1,200+ yard seasons back to back. Brandon Jackson is going to have to kick it up a notch to help keep defenses honest and to keep them from all-out blitzes on Aaron Rodgers every single play. With another week under his belt, newcomer Dimitri Nance might get more playing time. He was in for a couple plays yesterday. No mistakes, that was about the best that could be said. Head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters after the game that running back by committee is not ideal. But at the same time, he very much sounded as if that would be the way it goes at least for a while. Check out this article for more.
Oh, and isn't it interesting that things are so quiet in terms of chatter about the Packers' special teams? Guess that means folks are generally happy with what they see. Certainly Jordy Nelson is doing a very good job so far of setting the Pack up in good field position following a kick off.
And last but not least...Clay Matthews. The guy is a beast. Three more sacks yesterday to go to six on the season. In 15 regular season games, Matthews has 15 sacks. At this pace...wow.
This is about all we time for at the moment, folks. But keep checking back for more. In the meantime, why not cast your vote in the poll in the righthand column about the best nickname being floated for LB Clay Matthews? Yes, these are seemingly the two most popular names being tossed about: "Manimal" and "Claymaker". Let us know what you think.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Packers shareholders meet today, players suit up Saturday
A few hours from now, Packers' shareholders will be gathering at the currently warm tundra of Lambeau Field for the annual shareholders meeting. Packers officials will present the financial report (not great, as previously reported here and elsewhere), talk about the state of the team, and so on. They will also hear from NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, who will also respond to questions submitted previously by shareholders. Should be an interesting session. Hope to provide follow up to that later today or tomorrow for you.
B & B signings?
In other team news, currently the only player on the Packers prospective roster not yet signed is first round draft pick Bryan Bulaga. Reports are, however, that he and the Pack are close to coming to terms on a contract. Bulaga Tweeted yesterday, if memory serves, that he was probably done playing golf for a while, which one would take to mean he's going to be on the practice field in Green Bay very soon. Perhaps, if reports are correct, in time for the team's first practice at 2 p.m. Saturday. That would be a great thing for not only Bulaga but the offensive line as it tries to assess whether Bulaga will be in the running for starting at left guard this season or whether he'll be groomed solely to replace venerable veteran Chad Clifton at left tackle when the time comes.
Safety Atari Bigby was reported on Tuesday to have finally agreed to his one-year tender offer. However, because of roster limitations the Packers have not yet apparently turned in the contract to the league office. When they do, and when Bulaga signs, the Packers will have to make a couple roster moves to get to the 80-man limit.
You can read more about the Bulaga and Bigby situations here.
Ad patches hit the unis
And now, coming to a practice jersey near you, advertising patches!
That's right, kids, the Packers finally caved to the demands of economic necessity over tradition (and when that happens even in Green Bay you know things are tough) and will be sporting an advertising patch on their practice jerseys this season. Two good things about that. First, it's a practice jersey, not something that will be worn on pre- or regular-season uniforms. Secondly, it's a local organization, Bellin Health, which is a major healthcare provider in the Packers neck of the woods and with which the Packers have partnered for a number of years. Bellin is the presenting sponsor for this summer's training camp, so a patch seems fitting, I suppose. For those on the lookout, the patch will be worn on the player's left side near the shoulder. As to the size, according to the Packers' director of marketing, it's tasteful. Ah, what's the diff...it's a practice jersey. And if you want to know more, read this.
B & B signings?
In other team news, currently the only player on the Packers prospective roster not yet signed is first round draft pick Bryan Bulaga. Reports are, however, that he and the Pack are close to coming to terms on a contract. Bulaga Tweeted yesterday, if memory serves, that he was probably done playing golf for a while, which one would take to mean he's going to be on the practice field in Green Bay very soon. Perhaps, if reports are correct, in time for the team's first practice at 2 p.m. Saturday. That would be a great thing for not only Bulaga but the offensive line as it tries to assess whether Bulaga will be in the running for starting at left guard this season or whether he'll be groomed solely to replace venerable veteran Chad Clifton at left tackle when the time comes.
Safety Atari Bigby was reported on Tuesday to have finally agreed to his one-year tender offer. However, because of roster limitations the Packers have not yet apparently turned in the contract to the league office. When they do, and when Bulaga signs, the Packers will have to make a couple roster moves to get to the 80-man limit.
You can read more about the Bulaga and Bigby situations here.
Ad patches hit the unis
And now, coming to a practice jersey near you, advertising patches!
That's right, kids, the Packers finally caved to the demands of economic necessity over tradition (and when that happens even in Green Bay you know things are tough) and will be sporting an advertising patch on their practice jerseys this season. Two good things about that. First, it's a practice jersey, not something that will be worn on pre- or regular-season uniforms. Secondly, it's a local organization, Bellin Health, which is a major healthcare provider in the Packers neck of the woods and with which the Packers have partnered for a number of years. Bellin is the presenting sponsor for this summer's training camp, so a patch seems fitting, I suppose. For those on the lookout, the patch will be worn on the player's left side near the shoulder. As to the size, according to the Packers' director of marketing, it's tasteful. Ah, what's the diff...it's a practice jersey. And if you want to know more, read this.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Packers wrap up successful Tailgate Tour
Last evening marked the fourth and final stop on this year's edition of the Packers Tailgate Tour. Packers President Mark Murphy and players Chad Clifton, Nick Collins, James Jones and John Kuhn spent this last week seeing a lot of the state of Wisconsin they might not normally see...or even know existed outside of Green Bay and Milwaukee: Rhinelander, Chippewa Falls and Reedsburg. They visited schools, businesses and even the Leinenkugel Brewery. Their final stop in Milwaukee was the Harley-Davidson Museum for a gathering with fans.
But before that event kicked off, they made a surprise stop at the Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center near Miller Park (home of the Brewers) in Milwaukee.
Whether in the hinterlands of Wisconsin, at the Veterans Center, or in the heart of Harley-land in downtown Milwaukee, the players and team President made a great impression on fans. In fact, they even may have picked up a few new fans along the way. But don't take my word for it. Check out this article and see for yourself.
This is why we're Packer fans. Great guys and a great organization. Not just now. Always.
Go Pack Go!!!
But before that event kicked off, they made a surprise stop at the Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center near Miller Park (home of the Brewers) in Milwaukee.
Whether in the hinterlands of Wisconsin, at the Veterans Center, or in the heart of Harley-land in downtown Milwaukee, the players and team President made a great impression on fans. In fact, they even may have picked up a few new fans along the way. But don't take my word for it. Check out this article and see for yourself.
This is why we're Packer fans. Great guys and a great organization. Not just now. Always.
Go Pack Go!!!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Colledge signs & other Packers news
Playing a bit of catch up here, folks. Basically, other than the rookie orientation weekend and tryouts, not much happening since the conclusion of the NFL Draft as far as the Pack goes.
Yes, guard Daryn Colledge signed his tender offer with the team yesterday, which means he will finally re-join his teammates in offseason workouts. As a restricted free agent, the deal keeps Colledge around for one more year. After that, it's possible some of the new kids picked up in this year's draft may make Colledge expendable unless he ramps up his performance.
Colledge was arguably considered the weakest link on the starting O-line, at least after Clifton and Tauscher resumed their play at left and right tackles respectively. It is possible that Colledge will also be in a battle to keep his current starting role this season as reports are that the Pack want to try Jason Spitz at left guard. You'll recall that last season Spitz beat out then-starter Scott Wells for the center spot before sustaining an injury that took him out of the line up. If Wells is back at center, Spitz could definitely challenge Colledge for the starting slot at left guard. And with the depth of current and new players across the line, Colledge's days may be numbered unless his play lives up to his talk. It's also possible that a team in need of a serviceable guard might be willing to make a trade for Colledge at some point, probably for a lower round draft pick. If GM Ted Thompson feels there is sufficient depth on the line if and when such a possibility arises don't be surprised to see Ted add to his future draft pick war chest...we all know how much he likes those.
After Colledge's signing, the only remaining restricted free agents left unsigned are safety Atari Bigby, defensive end Johnny Jolly and cornerback Tramon Williams. Because the April 15 deadline for them to sign offer sheets with other teams came and went, they are bound to the Packers unless the team releases them. That won't happen, obviously.
Post-Draft Tidbits
Following the rookie weekend and free agent tryouts, a couple stories for you to check out.
One has to do with the import from north of the border...Canadian border, that is: Shawn Gore. The rookie receiver came in for a tryout with the Packers, despite the fact that he was at the same time being drafted in the second round of the Canadian Football League draft. He would have been a sure fire first-rounder except for the fact that all the CFL teams knew he was trying out with the Pack and didn't want to waste a first round pick on someone that might be playing in the NFL instead.
Gore's bet paid off: he was one of only three players offered a contract by the Packers following the tryout weekend. And based upon his size, speed and ability, Gore has a good chance of sticking with the team, even in a highly competitive receiving corps. Read more about him here.
Shields a returner?
Seemingly since...who can remember?...the Packers have been searching for a reliable and effective punt and/or kickoff returner. They may have found one in undrafted rookie free agent CB Sam Shields out of Miami. Very fast. Check out the story here.
OTAs begin May 17
The Packers' first organized team activities (OTAs) of the 2010 season begin next week. While optional, expect most all players to attend. We'll update you on anything of importance that happens during that week.
Packers Tailgate Tour underway
The four-stop 2010 Green Bay Packers Tailgate Tour hits the road tonight (May 11) in Rhinelander and ends Friday May 14 in Milwaukee (at the Harley-Davidson Museum, no less) with stops in Chippewa Falls and Reedsburg in between. The tour gets players and execs out to the fans "with evening tailgate parties held in each city to support a local non-profit organization," as the press release goes.
You can learn more -- and still get tickets at least in one or two instances -- here.
Yes, guard Daryn Colledge signed his tender offer with the team yesterday, which means he will finally re-join his teammates in offseason workouts. As a restricted free agent, the deal keeps Colledge around for one more year. After that, it's possible some of the new kids picked up in this year's draft may make Colledge expendable unless he ramps up his performance.
Colledge was arguably considered the weakest link on the starting O-line, at least after Clifton and Tauscher resumed their play at left and right tackles respectively. It is possible that Colledge will also be in a battle to keep his current starting role this season as reports are that the Pack want to try Jason Spitz at left guard. You'll recall that last season Spitz beat out then-starter Scott Wells for the center spot before sustaining an injury that took him out of the line up. If Wells is back at center, Spitz could definitely challenge Colledge for the starting slot at left guard. And with the depth of current and new players across the line, Colledge's days may be numbered unless his play lives up to his talk. It's also possible that a team in need of a serviceable guard might be willing to make a trade for Colledge at some point, probably for a lower round draft pick. If GM Ted Thompson feels there is sufficient depth on the line if and when such a possibility arises don't be surprised to see Ted add to his future draft pick war chest...we all know how much he likes those.
After Colledge's signing, the only remaining restricted free agents left unsigned are safety Atari Bigby, defensive end Johnny Jolly and cornerback Tramon Williams. Because the April 15 deadline for them to sign offer sheets with other teams came and went, they are bound to the Packers unless the team releases them. That won't happen, obviously.
Post-Draft Tidbits
Following the rookie weekend and free agent tryouts, a couple stories for you to check out.
One has to do with the import from north of the border...Canadian border, that is: Shawn Gore. The rookie receiver came in for a tryout with the Packers, despite the fact that he was at the same time being drafted in the second round of the Canadian Football League draft. He would have been a sure fire first-rounder except for the fact that all the CFL teams knew he was trying out with the Pack and didn't want to waste a first round pick on someone that might be playing in the NFL instead.
Gore's bet paid off: he was one of only three players offered a contract by the Packers following the tryout weekend. And based upon his size, speed and ability, Gore has a good chance of sticking with the team, even in a highly competitive receiving corps. Read more about him here.
Shields a returner?
Seemingly since...who can remember?...the Packers have been searching for a reliable and effective punt and/or kickoff returner. They may have found one in undrafted rookie free agent CB Sam Shields out of Miami. Very fast. Check out the story here.
OTAs begin May 17
The Packers' first organized team activities (OTAs) of the 2010 season begin next week. While optional, expect most all players to attend. We'll update you on anything of importance that happens during that week.
Packers Tailgate Tour underway
The four-stop 2010 Green Bay Packers Tailgate Tour hits the road tonight (May 11) in Rhinelander and ends Friday May 14 in Milwaukee (at the Harley-Davidson Museum, no less) with stops in Chippewa Falls and Reedsburg in between. The tour gets players and execs out to the fans "with evening tailgate parties held in each city to support a local non-profit organization," as the press release goes.
You can learn more -- and still get tickets at least in one or two instances -- here.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Yep...still looks good in the morning, too
You know how it goes: sometimes, in the heat of the moment, one's reason and senses can lead you to make, um, questionable decisions. Which in the light of day, make you wonder what the heck you were thinking. Or so I've heard.
On another level, it's buyer's remorse. Dazzled by the flash, we come to realize the goods aren't at all that we thought they were.
Well, in the case of the Packers' first round draft pick, offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga, seems as if everyone still awoke with a smile on their faces today. Even fans, who say they approve of the Packers' choice by a margin of 92 percent to 8 percent (of more than 7,000 fans responding as of the time of this post) in a poll at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
And why not? Bulaga was projected to be long gone before the Packers' pick at number 23. Some had him going in the top 10. That's why GM Ted Thompson and the coaching staff in Green Bay were darn near giddy when Bulaga fell into their laps last evening.
In his post-selection interview, Bulaga said his goal was to start...which is exactly what you want to hear from a draft pick, especially a first rounder. He understands that he'll have much to learn. But coming from the Iowa system, he's familiar with zone blocking schemes so he can hit the ground running, so to speak. And if he takes care of business, he could succeed venerable veteran Chad Clifton at left tackle. That's what the Packers are hoping. Whether that's sooner or later, it's what they are hoping for.
Everybody has a take on Bulaga, how this will impact the Packers short and long-term, etc. So if you want to catch a really good overview, check out this story and its various sidebar articles. Good stuff.
Keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com as the draft resumes later this afternoon. There are still some very good players available who have now dropped to the second round and fit the Packers' needs -- especially on defense -- very well. Will Thompson trade up, stay pat, or trade down? Stay tuned...it's gonna be a fun ride, kids!
On another level, it's buyer's remorse. Dazzled by the flash, we come to realize the goods aren't at all that we thought they were.
Well, in the case of the Packers' first round draft pick, offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga, seems as if everyone still awoke with a smile on their faces today. Even fans, who say they approve of the Packers' choice by a margin of 92 percent to 8 percent (of more than 7,000 fans responding as of the time of this post) in a poll at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
And why not? Bulaga was projected to be long gone before the Packers' pick at number 23. Some had him going in the top 10. That's why GM Ted Thompson and the coaching staff in Green Bay were darn near giddy when Bulaga fell into their laps last evening.
In his post-selection interview, Bulaga said his goal was to start...which is exactly what you want to hear from a draft pick, especially a first rounder. He understands that he'll have much to learn. But coming from the Iowa system, he's familiar with zone blocking schemes so he can hit the ground running, so to speak. And if he takes care of business, he could succeed venerable veteran Chad Clifton at left tackle. That's what the Packers are hoping. Whether that's sooner or later, it's what they are hoping for.
Everybody has a take on Bulaga, how this will impact the Packers short and long-term, etc. So if you want to catch a really good overview, check out this story and its various sidebar articles. Good stuff.
Keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com as the draft resumes later this afternoon. There are still some very good players available who have now dropped to the second round and fit the Packers' needs -- especially on defense -- very well. Will Thompson trade up, stay pat, or trade down? Stay tuned...it's gonna be a fun ride, kids!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Packers 2010 schedule coming Tuesday
Just ahead of the fan frenzy that is now the three-day NFL Draft extravaganza, the NFL will announce team schedules on Tuesday, April 20. The preseason schedule and times were set the last week, and come Tuesday we will know the Pack's schedule versus the team's designated opponents.
For those needing a refresher, here are the Packers' 2010 Home and Away opponents:
Home
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants
San Francisco 49ers
Buffalo Bills
Miami Dolphins
Away
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Redskins
Atlanta Falcons
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Wayne Larrivee's draft prognostications
The radio voice of the Green Bay Packers, Wayne Larrivee, spoke on flagship station 620WTMJ (Milwaukee) this morning about this year's NFL Draft. His opinion is that it is not as deep overall as many media types suggest. Still, he said in the areas that the Packers have needs, good options should exist. In particular, he said offensive tackle, outside linebacker and cornerback are the areas where the Packers will need to bolster the roster...in short, pretty much what everyone knows.
Where his comments became very interesting, however, was the order in which Larrivee thought the Pack's first picks might fall. Rather than the conventional wisdom of selecting an offensive tackle with their first round pick (assuming the Pack stays at #23 rather than tradiing out of it, which could also be a real possibility given GM Ted Thompson's tendencies), Larrivee said he believed the Packers would select an outside linebacker to provide a pass rushing complement to last year's draft sensation, Clay Matthews. Larrivee then said the Pack would address their offensive tackle needs in the second round.
This does seem to make sense as there is a greater opportunity for an outside linebacker to make an immediate impact, as Matthews did. A rookie offensive tackle will sit behind Chad Clifton or Mark Tauscher to learn the trade, and perhaps won't have the possibility of starting for at least another year. Given that scenario, and the apparent equality of tackle prospects beyond those that will likely go in the first 20 picks, Larrivee's scenario might indeed be the one that plays out.
On the other hand, it could also very well be that the Packers would pop for a cornerback in the second round -- or even first -- if one of their key targets is still on the board. There are several good corner prospects in which the Packers would no doubt have interest. A few could not only provide key backup support initially -- or perhaps move into a starting spot depending upon how 35-year-old Al Harris returns from his injury -- but also have kick/punt return capabilities as well, which is also something the Packers have needed for about the last decade now.
Ah, the draft...great to be able to start talking and thinking football again, isn't it, kids? You bet!
For those needing a refresher, here are the Packers' 2010 Home and Away opponents:
Home
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants
San Francisco 49ers
Buffalo Bills
Miami Dolphins
Away
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Redskins
Atlanta Falcons
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Wayne Larrivee's draft prognostications
The radio voice of the Green Bay Packers, Wayne Larrivee, spoke on flagship station 620WTMJ (Milwaukee) this morning about this year's NFL Draft. His opinion is that it is not as deep overall as many media types suggest. Still, he said in the areas that the Packers have needs, good options should exist. In particular, he said offensive tackle, outside linebacker and cornerback are the areas where the Packers will need to bolster the roster...in short, pretty much what everyone knows.
Where his comments became very interesting, however, was the order in which Larrivee thought the Pack's first picks might fall. Rather than the conventional wisdom of selecting an offensive tackle with their first round pick (assuming the Pack stays at #23 rather than tradiing out of it, which could also be a real possibility given GM Ted Thompson's tendencies), Larrivee said he believed the Packers would select an outside linebacker to provide a pass rushing complement to last year's draft sensation, Clay Matthews. Larrivee then said the Pack would address their offensive tackle needs in the second round.
This does seem to make sense as there is a greater opportunity for an outside linebacker to make an immediate impact, as Matthews did. A rookie offensive tackle will sit behind Chad Clifton or Mark Tauscher to learn the trade, and perhaps won't have the possibility of starting for at least another year. Given that scenario, and the apparent equality of tackle prospects beyond those that will likely go in the first 20 picks, Larrivee's scenario might indeed be the one that plays out.
On the other hand, it could also very well be that the Packers would pop for a cornerback in the second round -- or even first -- if one of their key targets is still on the board. There are several good corner prospects in which the Packers would no doubt have interest. A few could not only provide key backup support initially -- or perhaps move into a starting spot depending upon how 35-year-old Al Harris returns from his injury -- but also have kick/punt return capabilities as well, which is also something the Packers have needed for about the last decade now.
Ah, the draft...great to be able to start talking and thinking football again, isn't it, kids? You bet!
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