Packers DE Mike Neal out indefinitely

The man pegged to replace DE Cullen Jenkins in the Green Bay Packers defense this season is now on the shelf for a while. How long will Mike Neal be lost? Don't know. All head coach Mike McCarthy would say today is that Neal would be out "a significant amount of weeks."

Neal has been nursing a knee injury since training camp and both he and the team were hoping it would respond to non-surgical treatments. Apparently, that wasn't working. So the decision was made for Neal to have surgery, although the nature of the surgery -- as with the knee injury itself -- has also not yet been specified.

If there is any silver lining to this for the Packers it is that they have not placed Neal on injured reserve, which would have ended his season before it even started. But how fast Neal will return is anyone's guess.

Jarius Wynn played well as Neal's replacement in the win over the Saints. As we saw last year, this team is adept at making whatever adjustments may be necessary when a key player goes down. That will again be the case at defensive end.

You can read more about this situation here.

Now THIS is a badge you hope a police officer flashes

Yes, yes, I know. The Packer are continuing to prepare for Friday night's game against the Cardinals at Lambeau Field. And injuries are continuing to keep some young players on the sidelines who somehow have to find a way to get on the field and show what they can do: cornerback Davon House and running back Alex Green among them. Let's also not forget the scare that Mike Neal's leg injury has thrown into Packer fans everywhere. He says he's fine, and coach Mike McCarthy says he's day-to-day. But if he goes down, the Packers find themselves mighty thin at that defensive end spot. They are counting on Neal to replace Cullen Jenkins and he needs to stay healthy and on the field. Keep your fingers, toes, and eyes crossed, Packer fans!

But aside from these on-field matters, the gist of this post is something really cool happening with the Green Bay Police Department: officers can now purchase for their use, through next August, an optional badge that includes the Packers "G" logo and “Super Bowl Champions XLV” on its face.

Now, really...how cool is that? It almost makes you want to be a member of the department just so you can get one of those badges, doesn't it? Or at the very least, see how soon one of them shows up on eBay.
(Photo credit: Green Bay Police Department)

For Packers, it's ch-ch-ch-changes

Since the moves recounted in the last posts here at PackerFansUnited.com on Thursday, the Green Bay Packers have:

• Released 11-year veteran right tackle and Wisconsin native son, Mark Tauscher. (Thank you, Tausch, for being a great Badger and Packer. Look forward to seeing you in the Packers Hall of Fame!)
• Released veteran linebacker Brandon Chillar, who had the bad misfortune of apparently sustaining a serious hamstring injury 2 weeks before the start of camp
• Lost DE Cullen Jenkins in free agency to the Eagles
• Lost FB Korey Hall in free agency to the Saints
• Did not re-sign S Atari Bigby as demonstrated by the team awarding his #20 to rookie RB, Alex Green.
• Signed their remaining draft picks, OL Derek Sherrod, RB Alex Green, and DB Davon House
• Re-signed TE Spencer Havner and WR Brett Swain
• Commenced training camp, held their first meetings, scheme installation, and evening practice

Even head coach Mike McCarthy added to his personal roster: his wife gave birth to their second daughter Thursday evening...think he's a little sleep deprived right now?

About the only key Packer free agent left on the board is James Jones (yes, John Kuhn is still unsigned as well, but will likely return to the Pack). According to reports, and following Minnesota's signing today of former Atlanta receiver, Michael Jenkins, Jones is now being pursued by the Jets and Cardinals, as well as the Packers. But you just don't know how much GM Ted Thompson is going to be willing to pay. I'd still say the odds are Jones does not return to the Pack.

One advantage of the new CBA and the whirlwind week of training camp start-up activity is that player holdouts, whether veteran or rookie draft picks, are virtually nil as far as the Packers goes. Given the changes on the squad already, and with many players coming back off injured reserve, there is a real awareness that there's not much time to compete for a job. Players have to make the most of every moment they have right now. The Packers will field the best players, of course, for the final squad. To make it onto that elite, defending Super Bowl Champion roster, they have to shine...now. Expect one of the most competitive training camps you've ever seen.

Stay tuned to PackerFansUnited.com for ongoing updates. And follow us on Twitter for even more timely news flashes and commentary.

Packers release Harrell and Poppinga

In the current NFL funhouse, where what was thought to be one thing may turn out to be something else altogether, reports of DE Cullen Jenkins going to the Redskins seem to have fizzled, while others indicating that the Green Bay Packers have released LB Brady Poppinga and DE Justin Harrell seem to be solid. And, yes, LG Daryn Colledge has indeed been signed by Arizona, and the ViQueens are hot on the trail of WR James Jones.

With me so far?

Poppinga had a big motor which helped overcome average talent as a linebacker. He ultimately became a casualty, not unlike fellow linebacker Nick Barnett, of his season-ending injury last year; the Packers were able to find -- and win -- with other linebackers filling in without missing a beat.

Harrell was and is GM Ted Thompson's biggest draft bust during his tenure. An overall #16 pick in the first round, Harrell had been hurt in college and was a stretch at that slot given the injury history. He was never able to stay healthy and on the field. The Packers gave him every opportunity to get healthy, where other teams likely would have cut him several years ago. Having said that, virtually everyone covering the Packers from the inside, as opposed to those of us looking in from the hinterland, says Harrell is hands down one of the nicest young men you'd ever want to meet. He was the kind of character person and player that the Packers want on their roster. Unfortunately, character can't make tackles and the plug was finally pulled.

Thanks to both Brady Poppinga and Justin Harrell for their service to the Packers, and good luck to you in the future.

Undrafted free agents finalized
Initial reports two days ago indicated that the Packers had reached agreements with 16 undrafted rookie free agents. Today, final signings have been announced. They are:

• WR/KR Antoine “Shaky” Smithson, Utah
• WR Tori Gurley, South Carolina
• LB Jamari Lattimore, Middle Tennessee State
• C Sampson Genus, South Florida
• S M.D. Jennings, Arkansas State
• DE Vic So’oto, BYU
• QB Diondre Borel, Utah State (possible WR in the NFL)
• OL Theo Sherman, James Madison
• OL Ray Dominguez, Arkansas
• WR Kerry Taylor, Arizona State
• LB Eli Joseph, Temple (incorrectly listed earlier as NT)
• S Anthony Bratton, Delaware
• FB Jon Hoese, Minnesota
• DB Brandian Ross, Youngstown State
• RB Brandon Saine, Ohio State

You can read brief bios on each of these players here.

Vegas sees Pack and Pats with most wins
A report out earlier today stated that the oddsmakers at Las Vegas' MGM Grand had figured the Packers and the Patriots with the most wins in the league, with 11-1/2 each...not sure how you get that half-game win but that's Vegas, right?

Hello, I must be going...

As the whirlwind feeding frenzy (is that a mixed metaphor?) of the first week of the NFL's new collective bargaining agreement continues, the Green Bay Packers will be bidding adieu to a few longtime veterans.

Barnett, Colledge, Jenkins and Jones...going, going...
As reported the Tuesday, LB Nick Barnett was informed by the Packers they would attempt to trade him or, failing that, part ways with him when today's release timeline kicks in. Late yesterday, free agent LG Daryn Colledge apparently agreed to terms with the Arizona Cardinals, according to NFL.com. A Tweet from Colledge this morning confirmed that his days in Green Bay were done following conversations with Arizona. The St. Louis Rams had also been rumored to be a possible suitor. Nothing can be made official until tomorrow, however. According to both Colledge and his agent, the Packers "never showed interest" in resigning him. Apparently, GM Ted Thompson and the coaching staff feels confident that either veterans T. J. Lang, Nick McDonald or Marshall Newhouse can fill the slot at least as well -- and cheaper -- than Colledge, or rookie first round-pick Derek Sherrod will be be able to do what Bryan Bulaga did last season and step right into the fray.

Thank you, Mr. Colledge, for never missing a game during your tenure as a member of the Packers. You never got the appreciation you deserved, in this writer's opinion, for your solid service. You weren't a Pro Bowler, but you weren't chopped liver either, as the saying goes. Good luck in the desert.

Another apparent, although not unexpected, loss for the Packers in free agency is DE Cullen Jenkins. Reports this morning indicate that Jenkins has come to terms with the Washington Redskins although, again, nothing can finalized until Friday. Well, at least he's not going to Da Bearz.

One possible inter-division free agent loss that is getting some buzz this morning is that WR James Jones may be going to the ViQueens. With Sidney Rice bolting the 'Queens for the Seahawks, Minnesota is now desperate for a starting receiver to play opposite Percy Harvin. Jones has made it clear he wants the opportunity to be a starter. While Packers QB Aaron Rodgers stated on a radio program yesterday that he felt re-signing Jones was a priority for the team as he saw things, Jones will likely be offered more money than the Packers are willing to pay. My guess is Jones will be dressing in purple this Fall -- just as other former Packers have (what's up with that, by the way?). Stay tuned.

Crosby scores a deal
The Packers did come to terms yesterday, however, with one free agent: kicker Mason Crosby. He apparently will be signing a five-year $14.75 million deal with $3 million in guaranted money. There seems to be some mixed feelings about this deal among Packer fans. While Crosby's leg strength has never been in question, his accuracy has been at times, and stats demonstrate he is below the NFL average in that regard. He also is merely 1 for 4 in game-winning kicks. Speaking for myself, I have had very little confidence when he comes in for those clutch kicks. I hope to have that opinion reversed over the next five years.

Shareholders meeting today
Today is the annual meeting for Packers shareholders, which is being held at Lambeau Field. Will do a re-cap of anything newsworthy that might arise.

...And on the first day of the new CBA...

Day One of the new NFL collective bargaining agreement saw many players arriving at team facilities, many others in transit and teams beginning the frenzy of signing, trading and releasing players.

The Green Bay Packers made a number of moves today. The most important from a personnel and budget cap standpoint is the pending trade or -- more likely -- release of eight-year veteran LB Nick Barnett. GM Ted Thompson met with Barnett early this morning and told him of the team's plans. Certainly had to hurt, but just as certainly Barnett couldn't have been too surprised. Given the Packers' cap situation, the fact that Barnett would have been due more than $5 million in salary, the fact that Barnett has been injured two of the last three seasons, and the fact that the Packers made their successful end-of-season/playoff/Super Bowl run without him, the writing was on the wall.

Farewell, Mr. Barnett, thank you for your service and for being a great Packer. Good luck wherever you land next.

There is no word at the time of this posting as to the status of Cullen Jenkins, James Jones, Mason Crosby or John Kuhn, all unrestricted free agents. Speculation is that Jenkins will take a bigger deal elsewhere, while Crosby is expected to be re-signed; there are reportedly 12 free agent kickers on the market. Kuhn indicated that he would test the market. As for Jones, QB Aaron Rodgers was reported to have stated that re-signing him was "priority number one," at least as he saw it. So, stay tuned. These will be interesting days ahead, full of roster activity.

Undrafted free agent signings

Teams across the league were busy today signing undrafted free agents. The Packers were no different, adding 16 players according to various sources. They are:

• WR/KR Antoine “Shaky” Smithson, Utah
• WR Tori Gurley, South Carolina
• LB Jamari Lattimore, Middle Tennessee State
• C Sampson Genus, South Florida
• S M.D. Jennings, Arkansas State
• DE Vic So’oto, BYU
• QB Diondre Borel, Utah State (possible WR in the NFL)
• OL Theo Sherman, James Madison
• OL Ray Dominguez, Arkansas
• WR Kerry Taylor, Arizona State
• NT Eli Joseph, Temple
• LB Peanut Joseph, Temple
• S Anthony Bratton, Delaware
• FB Jon Hoese, Minnesota
• DB Brandian Ross, Youngstown State
• RB Brandon Saine, Ohio State

Among the most intriguing, at least on paper and/or video seem to be Shaky Smithson and Tori Gurley. Smithson in particular could finally be the punt and kick returner the Pack hasn't had since the days of Desmond Howard. He will no doubt be given every chance to secure that role. As for Gurley, the length of his arms is apparently sasquatch-like and that makes him attractive as a receiving target...along with his 6'4" height and 4.53 40 speed, of course. And let's not forget the Joseph twins, Eli and Peanut, from Temple. Whether they make the final roster or not, it's at least a bit of future trivia that there was once a player in camp named "Peanut" AND his twin brother was in camp at the same time.

Ding dong the deal is done!

At long last, the NFL lockout is over, although the players still have to ratify the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and recertify their union. Bottom line: those are formalities and it's a done deal.

So, let's say it loud and say it proud: Go Pack Go!!!

Yes, we fans of the Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers can now start chomping at the bit again. Because while free agent, drafted and undrafted rookie signings will now be compressed into the negotiating equivalent of a thimble, the Pack's existing roster is already loaded. Remember all the players coming back off IR from last season?

Questions, at least among fans, concern what the Pack will do with some of their own free agents, such as Cullen Jenkins, Daryn Colledge and James Jones among others. The consensus of the chit chat over the past few months seems to be about evenly split: some fans hope the Packers keep each of these players, some say let 'em walk. I have to admit to having a split mind on these guys myself. But there won't be a lot of guessing; we'll likely know by the end of the week who the Packers will re-sign and who they won't.

Keep in mind also that under the new CBA, the training camp rosters have been expanded by 10 players, from 80 to 90. That means Ted Thompson will have even more of a field day signing undrafted rookies for camp. The downside is that he and the coaching staff will have only about a month to evaluate them and set their final rosters. Given the depth of the Packers' roster it will be tough for a rookie, especially an undrafted one, to crack the regular season roster particularly given the accelerated learning curve. But Thompson is known for finding hidden gems, with last season being a prime example. So anything is possible.

It's going to be a busy time for all the players, coaches and management. Players can begin using team facilities tomorrow and, in the case of the Packers, report for camp Friday, with the likely first practice being on Saturday as previously scheduled. The first preseason game is still set for Aug. 13. There's a lot to be done before then. But if any team is in position to handle it all, it is the Packers.

No doubt, Packers shareholders will be hearing all about that -- and more -- at the upcoming shareholders meeting this Thursday at Lambeau Field.

For the first time for the upcoming 2011 season, say it with me: It's great to be a Packer fan!

Intriguing draft scenario: Ingram available for Packers?

Draft week is upon us, so we can once again begin an almost daily geek-out up to Thursday's first round. OK, let's be honest, through the entire weekend of the remaining rounds, as well.

So, let's begin with an interesting scenario constructed by Pat Kirwan of NFL.com. As most mock draft followers are probably aware, many scenarios have the Packers either picking DT Cameron Heyward from Ohio State, or LB Akeem Ayers of UCLA. Some have the Packers reaching a bit (my opinion) for OT Derek Sherrod of Mississippi State or OLB Brooks Reed from Arizona. Kirwan, however, suggests the possibility that Alabama RB and 2009 Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram might be available to the Packers when their pick comes up at number 32. That would be a gift on the order of Aaron Rodgers falling into the Pack's lap back in the 2005 draft. Back then, the Packers sure weren't looking to take a quarterback that high; Ol' #4 was still running the show quite well, after all. But how could you pass up a deal like Rodgers at #24? You couldn't. And thankfully, the Packers didn't. Imagine, then, a similar situation in which the top running back in the draft falls to the end of the first round. Not knowing how well Ryan Grant will come back from his injury, or whether James Starks is the real deal or not, the Packers could certainly use a running back of Ingram's stature. Ingram might just be too good to pass up if he's sitting there.

How does Kirwan get to this scenario? It's essentially based on the fall of Missouri QB Blaine Gabbert down the draft board. Most every mock draft out there had Miami at #15 picking Ingram. But according to Kirwan's latest mock draft, if Gabbert does indeed drop out of the top five picks, he could fall to Miami. If that happens, and given the sad state of the Dolphins current quarterback situation, Kirwan argues that, "The Dolphins have to take Gabbert if he falls this far. One coach told me Gabbert is this far down on their board. Miami needs to make changes at quarterback, or at least bring in competition."

Ingram is the only first-round worthy running back in this year's draft. There is an abundance -- and need -- for defensive linemen; some pundits project perhaps as many as 12-14 defensive linemen may be selected in the first round. So, Kirwan's mock draft has Ingram falling to the bottom of the first round, assuming Miami takes Gabbert. As he says about Ingram going to the Packers, "If the Dolphins don’t take Ingram at No. 15, he could be sitting here for the Packers. It would be too good to be true for the world champs, but the Packers just might end up with Ingram, which would spell the end for Ryan Grant in Green Bay."

The Packers are also looking to add depth to their defensive line, particularly if, as expected, veteran Cullen Jenkins departs in free agency (whenever that commences). Offensive tackle is also a slot that needs beefing up. There has even been speculation that if Wisconsin OT Gabe Carimi falls as far #25, GM Ted Thompson might swing a deal to move up for him with his old protege, John Schneider, now running the Seahawks. I think that's a stretch for two reasons: I expect Carimi to be off the board before then and, secondly, the pressure on Schneider to draft Washington QB Jake Locker if he is available at that spot is too great for Schneider to pass up.

So, while I personally would like to imagine that Kirwan's scenario plays out Thursday evening and Ingram is sitting there at #32, I'm not holding my breath. I think the likelihood is another name will be called. But, six years ago, who would have imagined that Aaron Rodgers, a possible #1 pick overall, would drop into the Packers' lap at #24? Stranger things have happened.

And let's also not forget that if Thompson thinks he can get just as valuable a player farther down the line as what he's looking at with that 32nd pick, he will not hesitate to trade down out of the pick. That's as much Thompson's modus operandi as anything else.

Kirwan has posted a mock draft for the first three rounds. In addition to having the Pack take Ingram in round 1, he has them selecting OLB Bruce Carter from North Carolina at #64 in the second round and DT Pernell McPhee from Mississippi State with the 96th overall pick in the third round.

You can check out Kirwan's complete three rounds beginning here.

Mike and Ted's excellent adventure

Say it with me now: the Green Bay Packers are World Champions! Never gets old, does it? At least, not if you're a Packer fan. Nor if you are the head coach or general manager of the Super Bowl winning team.

Great article in today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel by that paper's outstanding Packers beat writer, Bob McGinn, about how head coach Mike McCarthy is only just beginning his run at Super Bowl titles. While he joined Vince Lombardi and Mike Holmgren as the only Packers coaches to win a Super Bowl title, McCarthy wants to join Lombardi as the only multiple winner. That would be just fine with Packer fans all across the universe, coach.

The article notes not only how committed McCarthy is to the Packers as an organization -- and how they are ready to re-negotiate his contract to demonstrate the team's commitment to him, as well -- but how committed he also is to Green Bay as a community. When you have coaches and players who commit to not just the team but the community of Green Bay, that's a situation that is hard to beat.

McCarthy gives suitable praise to his GM, Ted Thompson, of course. And it seems as if fans and others in the NFL have also finally seen the wisdom of Thompson's build-through-the-draft approach. The right GM and the right head coach have assembled the right players at the right time.

Now, Mike and Ted are at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis checking out the next group of potential Packers from the upcoming draft. Trying to find more depth along the offensive and defensive lines, playmakers at linebacker and defensive back, perhaps a receiver and running back, and -- dare we dream? -- a returner. It wouldn't seem as if there are many holes to fill. But some players, such as DE Cullen Jenkins, will be lost to free agency. And as was clearly a lesson learned last season, injuries can devastate a team unless you have players -- and coaches -- who can step up their play. Every player from #1 on down to the practice squad players are important. You have to believe that, in Thompson's system, there are no guesses. Only potential champions.

It is a most excellent adventure indeed.

Mmmm...Super Bowl...Goooood

With proper respect to Homer Simpson, yes, Super Bowl..mmmmm....goooooood.

It will be exceptionally good if the Packers win, of course. Which they will. More on that later with my specific score prediction. But for now, let's consider what it's going to take to bring the Lombardi Trophy back home to Green Bay where it rightly belongs.

Just about everything that can be written about both teams' players, the storied franchises, the legacies, the championship wins and more has been written. And let's not forget the stories about the fans. The Packers and Steelers have the best fan followings in the country. The game is being played in Dallas, which likes to assume the title of America's Team. We all know that's as big a pile of horse hockey as to be found anywhere. These two teams' fans know where the truth lies.

So, we're roughly 27 hours away from the kickoff of what will be the most-attended Super Bowl ever, and likely the most-watched Super Bowl, as well. The Packers have been confident and loose all week, according to reports. Packers head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters yesterday, "We respect Pittsburgh, but we feel that this is our time and Sunday will be our night." No doubt Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin feels the same way about the Packers and his team's chances.

A look at each team's units
OK, that subhead doesn't sound right, does it? But you know what I mean...get your mind out of the gutter!

It has been said for the last two weeks that the Packers and Steelers are pretty much cut from the same cloth: great defenses -- number 1 and 2 in scoring defense -- and great quarterbacks. Most are predicting a close game. The 2-1/2 point spread in favor of the Packers is the tightest margin since 1983, when the Washington Redskins played the Miami Dolphins. Many are giving the edge to the Steelers' defense. Well-deserved praise, for sure. They are loaded. But so is the Packers' defense. In my view, that's a draw. It will be up to individuals on each unit to make an impact one way or another, to cause a turnover, make a tackle, blow up a run or pass, and so on. Game-changing stuff. When looked at that way, I think the Packers "D" has more impact players in more places. Clay Matthews, Charles Woodson, B.J. Raji, Tramon Williams, Cullen Jenkins, Desmond Bishop, Sam Shields, Nick Collins, Ryan Pickett, A.J. Hawk... I mean, c'mon on.

Special teams? A few months ago I would have said -- actually, did say -- that the Packers' special teams unit was the team's Achilles Heal. No more. They still might not have found a returner on the roster, but the coverage units have gotten much better. And free agent punter Tim Masthay has turned into a great punter over the last part of the season. He could be as much a key to a win as anyone, believe it or not. Especially if the game comes down to field position.

As to offenses, the Packers have the better offensive line, and I'm not the only one saying that. Packers NT B.J. Raji should have a field day going against the Steelers backup center. On the Pack's side of things, if they can just create enough of a push to get rookie RB James Starks two or three yards a carry that will help considerably when the Pack unleashes its air attack from play-action. The Packers receiving corp is arguably the best in the league; they are certainly the best in this game. Donald Driver hasn't practiced the last few days due to a quad injury, but as coach Mike McCarthy said there's no way he can imagine Driver not playing in this game. It would be an added bonus if rookie TE Andrew Quarless felt this was the time for him to also learn to catch the ball on critical downs.

Last but not least, let's look at the quarterbacks. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger has two Super Bowl wins under his belt already. That experience helps big time. He's done it and he's won it. But his big frame helps more when he's both in and out of the pocket. The Packers defense will have to somehow figure out ways to get him down. He's got a big arm and is great at improvising. But those last two qualities are shared with Packers QB Aaron Rodgers. In fact, Rodgers has the added benefit of having a quicker release on his passes and that, again, helps give the Packers an edge. In listening to a cast of former Super Bowl winners this morning on ESPN, from coaches to players -- including Mike Ditka and Steve Young -- it was nearly unanimous that Aaron Rodgers was the key to victory for the Pack. He's been hot. And there's no reason to suspect he won't be on Super Bowl Sunday.

Former QB and Super Bowl winner Kurt Warner had some advice for the Packers with regards to Rodgers, however. He suggested, quite wisely, that coach McCarthy should help Rodgers by giving him an easy throw or two coming out of the box to build confidence and get into a rhythm. When Rodgers gets into that flow quickly, it usually means good things in terms of the final outcome.

Here's the final prediction
The game will undoubtedly ebb and flow. These are two great teams. It will be a physical game. Both teams will be brining it, as they say, for the full 60 minutes. The defense that wears down first might be the one to let the game slip away.

Throughout the regular season, the Packers never lost games as much as beat themselves. They aren't going to do that on this stage. Even if they get down, they are capable of getting back in it. They will never be out of it.

I'm thinking that coach McCarthy will unleash his offense and, as he's done all season, rely on defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his great defense to hold down the Steelers. The final score? I'm calling it 31-24 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

For Packers, it's V-E Day!

For anyone historically challenged (OK, let's be honest, that would be most Americans, but I digress...), the V-E I'm speaking of isn't that other V-E day; Victory in Europe will not get the Green Bay Packers anywhere today (and, please, don't even think about starting a conversation about the NFL playing in Europe!). However, a Victory over the Philadelphia Eagles will certainly be a great V-E Day for Packer fans everywhere!

And that's what we're looking for today: the Packers to beat the Eagles. V-E Day.

This will be a quick and concise preview. (Who said "Yay!"? I heard that!).

The Eagles are favored by 2-1/2 points, not even given the full usual benefit of the home field advantage. The weather is supposed to be cloudy and in the low 30's...not bad. However, the current conditions and forecast call for the wind to be a possible concern, with gusts forecast up to 35 mph. So, if it comes down to a kicking game, there could be issues, as they say. Punts could be affected, kickoffs could be affected and, especially, field goal attempts could be affected. We don't want to see a directional kick from Mason Crosby or punt from Tim Masthay taken by the wind and give returner DeSean Jackson opportunities he was not intended to get. Nor do we want to see a Crosby field goal attempt ding off an upright or get pushed wide and be the deciding factor in the game. Horrors! Bottom line: the Packers' special teams did a great job last weekend against Devin Hester and Da Bearz; they need an equally big game today against Jackson and the Eagles, and they can't let the wind determine the outcome of the game.

The Packers' defense must figure out a way to contain the Eagles running game and bottle up QB Michael Vick. That means keeping him in the pocket and hitting him as much as possible. The ViQueens laid out a great blueprint in terms of how to do that. Given that Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers has been a master at scheming all season long, we should expect nothing less than a great performance today from the Pack's defense. In addition, the defensive line will benefit from the return of DE Cullen Jenkins. It's not certain how much he'll be able to play, but the fact that he will be able to make an impact when needed certainly is a boost to a unit that has been playing at an exceptional level for the last half of the season especially.

On the offensive side of the ball, QB Aaron Rodgers and the air attack should be able to shred a questionable Eagles' secondary. Again, that's assuming that the wind doesn't adversely affect the downfield passing attack of the Packers. Being able to hit those big plays is a major part of the Pack's offense; take that away and...? Still, if the Packers can muster any semblance of a running game -- just to keep the Eagles honest -- that will enable Rodgers to find his receivers wherever they may be. And, of course, being able to convert touchdowns rather than field goals will be critical when the offense gets inside the redzone. If the Pack can get off to a fast start today -- instead of falling into the sluggish form that has appeared way too often -- that will go a long way towards securing a victory.

The Packers are feeling very good about where they are momentum-wise right now. They believe their playoff season started two weeks ago, as they needed to win to get in. Make no mistake, the Eagles have the weapons to win; that and the home field are making them the favorites going into the game. But most pundits seem to be predicting the Packers to win this game.

Include yours truly in that group.

I'm calling it 30-24 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

P.S. That quick and concise preview thing I mentioned earlier on...never mind...

Packers vs. Da Bearz Preview

Today is the day on which the Green Bay Packers will grab a Wild Card spot in the playoffs. Or not. Standing in their way, with already a bye week secured, is the NFC North champs (really, can you believe it???) Chicago Bears. Oddsmakers are figuring, despite the statements of coach Lovie Dovie Smith to the contrary, that Da Bearz will be resting many of their starters for a good portion of the game; this translates into the Packers being slotted as 9-1/2 point favorites. Yowza!

The Packers need this game, Da Bearz don't. Yes, there is an outside chance that Chicago could grab the #1 seed and home field advantage throughout the playoffs. But do they want to risk injury to key players on the outside chance that Atlanta loses to the worst team in the league, the Carolina Panthers? Or because they'd really like to keep the Packers out of the playoffs? Even Lovie isn't that dim. Expect key Bears' starters to play at least the first half and perhaps into the third quarter, depending upon the closeness of the game.

And that's the key question: will the game be close?

Both the Packers and Da Bearz are very different teams than when they met in Week 3 of the season. The Packers have lost yet more players to season-ending injuries and Chicago basically still has its full complement of starters. The Packers have overachieved with players that GM Ted Thompson has seemingly pulled in off the street and that the coaching staff has "coached up," as the expression goes. To some, including yours truly, Da Bearz can also be said to be overachievers. Not many pundits had them winning the NFC North at the beginning of the season, did they?

Da Bearz' defense has been its typical tough self and just as typically keeps the team in each game with a few rare exceptions. They're tough against the run and thrive on turnovers. The strip of the ball from WR James Jones along the sidelines in the waning moments of the first match helped set up the winning field goal. Da Bearz' special teams are keyed with the uber-returner, Devin Hester...who causes special teams coaches league-wide many hours of lost sleep. He alone can change -- and win -- games for Chicago; his punt return for a TD was critical in their earlier 20-17 last-second win over the Packers. To be fair, Jay Cutler and the offense are operating at a higher level than they were when the Packers handed Da Bearz that earlier victory in Chi-Town. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz has seemingly shifted from having Cutler doing seven-step drop backs and being a sack target to a three-step drop and a quick rhythm passing game. Also, let's not forget RB Matt Forte who will likely break the 1,000-yard rushing mark today; he stands at 978 yards and a 4.4 yards-per-carry average coming into this game.

As for the Pack's offense, there won't be much rushing room against Da Bearz' stout defensive line, at least while the starters are playing. But what else is new? The Packers haven't had a running game all season. The game will fall to at least keeping Chicago's defense honest with occasional runs, while letting QB Aaron Rodgers and the receivers do their thing, which they do very well. The offensive line will just need to give Rodgers the time he needs. Oh, and avoid the mind-numbing penalties which doomed the Packers in the first meeting. Given the play of late, both the protection and lack of penalties should be expected.

The Packers' defense will once again be without the services of DE Cullen Jenkins and LB Frank Zombo; S Atari Bigby is also out (along with FB Korey Hall on offense). Still, the D should be more than up to the challenge today given what's on the line. As for the Pack's special teams, the main objective there will be to not let Devin Hester beat you. Big challenge, and any line drive punt from P Tim Mathay could make this game closer than it should otherwise be given circumstances.

The predictions for this game are all over the place, some predicting a classic close-game battle while others are calling the Packers in a cakewalk. Weather will not be a factor, other than -- surprise! -- it's cold: at gametime the forecast is for 16 degrees and partly cloudy.

So, how do we call it? Not surprisingly, given what's at stake and how Da Bearz are expected to play this game, we're calling it 31-17 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Happy New Year, Packer fans!

Bye-bye Brett
Oh...and a fond farewell -- again -- to Ol' #4 who belatedly and finally will really and truly and forever be at his final NFL game today. Note that I didn't say "playing"; that's because it's just been announced that Favre is inactive for today's ViQueens' finale vs. the Lions.

It's been a horrible year on many fronts for Brett Favre. Like many great quarterbacks who have hung on too long, he's going out with a whimper instead of the return to glory he sought. Sadly, though, there's probably no once-great QB who has had the shine come off his star to the extent that Brett has. He's gone from legend and adulation a few years ago to the butt of jokes and investigations today. So sad.

Packers vs. Giants Preview

It's the day after Christmas and all we want is for the Green Bay Packers to still be in a gift-giving mode. No, not the kind of gifts they've given other teams in the six narrow losses of this season, but rather things like...oh...giving NY Giants head coach Tom Coughlin another couple hours in a darkened room after yet another heartbreaking loss. Or giving Packer fans everywhere yet another week of hope that this injury-riddled and over-achieving season will continue into the playoffs.

Those would be just a few gift ideas. Both, of course, are contingent upon the Packers beating the Giants at Lambeau Field today. The Packers are favored by 3 points, the home field advantage spread, meaning the game is basically a toss up. There are many out in the pundit-sphere, though, that are calling this game in favor of the Giants. To be honest, they do have a better rushing game (but, really, who doesn't?), a better defensive front, and a better return game (ditto my earlier who doesn't comment). And, after the Giants' epic 4th quarter collapse against the Eagles last weekend, you have to figure they will come out ready to play (a cliche, but still true). Of course, they could also still be feeling the after-effects of that loss. If the Pack were to get up early, the Giants just might have the air sucked right out of them. Don't expect that to happen, though.

This is a game which both teams need in order to keep their playoff hopes alive. But the Packers need it more: lose today and they are out. Period. Win and, even should they lose to Da Bearz in the regular season finale, they still have a chance but would need a few other things to fall into place in order for them to squeak in. The Packers understand very well that going into this game they control their own destiny, as the saying goes. Win their remaining two games and they clinch a Wild Card spot. Lose today and start making plans for the offseason.

If the Packers defense can't contain the Giants two-headed running attack of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs, it's going to be a long day, as that will allow QB Eli Manning to do what he can do very well when given the time. The Packers' task will be made even more difficult today with the absence, for yet one more week, of DE Cullen Jenkins and a question at outside linebacker. LB Frank Zombo is listed as doubtful after sustaining a knee injury in the game against the Pats, and even the two players signed in recent weeks to provide depth there have injuries to deal with. Not good. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers will need to bring his most creative schemes to bear today if the Pack is to have a chance at winning this game.

Likewise, head coach Mike McCarthy will have to have his play-calling abilities on target...something which, in these close games, has not always seemed to be the case. Aaron Rodgers needs a big game and, coming off his second concussion of the season, the scenario makes him vulnerable to the Giants' pass rush, particularly if the Packers are not able to find a way to run the ball. The O-line needs to play its best game of the season if the Pack is to win this game. They will have their hands full against a great Giants defensive front. If they allow that D-line to control the line of scrimmage and -- worse -- get pressure on QB Aaron Rodgers, it will be a long day and a likely loss. Not sure what the running game will look like for the Packers, but if they can at least come close to duplicating last week's performance against the Patriots it will provide Rodgers with some breathing room. And, if not...let's not even think about that, shall we?

This will be a close game. It could be decided with a turnover -- which the Pack didn't create last week despite several clear opportunities. It could also be decided on special teams. That edge, as we all too well know, does not go to the Pack. The Giants are the healthier of the two teams and the more physical. A lot will depend upon the emotion of the game. This would be a great time for the Giants to come in nursing that Eagles hangover. Don't count on that, however.

Still, because the game is at Lambeau and the Packers know their playoff lives depend on this game, we're calling it 27-24 in favor of the Packers.

Let us pray...

Go Pack Go!!!

It's in like Flynn for Packers

Late this morning it was made official: Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is out for Sunday night's game against the Patriots and third-year backup Matt Flynn will get his first NFL start. Practice squad QB Graham Harrell will reportedly be activated to the 53-man squad and defensive back Anthony Smith put on injured reserve to make room for Harrell.

Rodgers apparently did not receive the medical clearance required to be allowed to play. Given this was Rodgers' second concussion in about two months, the protocol is reportedly a bit different than with a first concussion. And even though head coach Mike McCarthy said that Rodgers was outfitted with a new helmet to provide him with greater protection that only matters if Rodgers can play. And he won't, at least for another week.

If there were any game where Rodgers' presence would be needed to even be in the game, this is it. Given what the Patriots have done to their competition over the last several weeks, a healthy Aaron Rodgers would give the Pack a fighting chance of staying in the game.

We'll get a chance, instead, to see what Matt Flynn can do. He's been on a big stage before, winning a National Championship while at LSU, and being named the MVP of that game, in fact. In reports out of Green Bay all week, Packers players to a man were saying they had full confidence in Flynn and what he can do. No doubt, being able to work with the first unit offense all week and get his timing down with the receivers will be an advantage he didn't have when he had to jump into the Detroit game last weekend.

But unless the Packers can somehow generate a semblance of a running game, it could be a long night for Flynn. McCarthy's play calling cannot rely upon Flynn to be the throwing machine he's asked Rodgers to be all season long. The offensive line -- which was embarrassed by their poor level of play versus the Lions -- must create holes for running backs to get a few yards every once in a while. The best defense against Pats' QB Tom Brady is keeping him on the bench with long possessions. That works against McCarthy's typical mode of operation. Let's hope that he at least acknowledges the situation he and his team is in and does what's necessary to perhaps, maybe, possibly pull an upset. If he implements the same type of game plan that's been on display of late the game could be over for the Packers before the first half is out.

That's not to minimize the Packers' defense, which is the number one scoring defense in the league (if memory serves). It's just that they've been playing on fumes for quite a while, too. Injuries have plagued that unit all season long and this weekend is no exception. While S Atari Bigby might see some action, DE Cullen Jenkins is still out and LB Frank Zombo -- who himself was a starter by virtue of the injury parade -- is also likely out for the game and will be replaced as a starter by street free agent Erik Walden. Oy.

The players and coaches know that they put themselves in severe jeopardy of missing the playoffs as a result of the egg they laid in Detroit last Sunday. They lost ground on Da Bearz, not because of the loss as Chicago lost as well, but in terms of a second loss in the division, which comes into play should any tiebreakers be needed for playoff seeding. The Pack basically needs to look at winning out, winning their three remaining games. If the Pack loses Sunday night, even if Da Bearz lose versus the ViQueens on Monday night, Da Bearz win the NFC North and the Pack's playoff chances are as close to being on life support as it gets.

It's a big challenge for Matt Flynn and the Packers to rise to the occasion Sunday night. Is it possible that they will beat the Patriots? Sure. Is it probable? No.

Check back here tomorrow for a gameday preview and prediction.

Go Pack Go!!!

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!!!

Packers vs. Vikings Preview

Favremageddon 2010 - Part Deux is upon us. The Tempest in the Twin Cities. The Oh-The-Humanity in the Humpty Dump. The Overused Hyperbole in...well...

OK, you get the idea. The Green Bay Packers meet the Minnesota Vikings in the second of their two 2010 showdowns. Round #1 went in favor of the Pack. Round #2? That should also go in favor of the Packers, and the line seems to reflect that: the Pack is favored by 3 despite the game being played on the 'Queens home field where they are very good and the Packers usually aren't.

But we all know that these games in the Humpty Dump are never easy. It is one of the loudest venues in all of sports. It is made even louder this time around with all the Minnesota fans shouting for the firing of head coach Brad Childress. But that's a whole other story. The key thing for the Packers will be to get up early and take the crowd out of it. If you are the Packers, you want them booing their own team not creating signal calling problems for you.

Coming out of the bye week, and with time to re-gear and build upon the momentum and offensive rhythm established over the last three games, the offense should click. The defense, with Cullen Jenkins working without the club on his broken hand for the first time since the first game, and the possibility of Ryan Picket returning in even limited play, should pick right up where it left off. Contain RB Adrian Peterson and pressure Ol' #4. The Packers' opportunistic defense should be able to generate a couple turnovers and in a close game that can be the difference. The 'Queens got some good news today, however, when WR Sidney Rice was activated off the PUP list. How much action he'll see, and how in sync he'll be with his quarterback, is a big question.

As for special teams, the Packers will have cornerback and speedster Sam Shields returning kickoffs. He opened eyes with a big return against the Cowboys. Coaches have decided that, until fumbles prove otherwise, he creates more problems for opponents that he does for the Packers. Expect the usual suspects back to return punts. On special teams, look also for the return of TE/LB Spencer Havner to the mix. He was a great special teams player in his prior time with the Packers and one would expect more of the same now that he's back in the fold. Throw in the bonus of his rapport as a tight end with QB Aaron Rodgers in the red zone and the Packers have yet another receiving threat for the 'Queens to worry about.

This will be Brett Favre's Super Bowl: his chance to win one last time against his former team before calling it quits. You know he's going to do all he can to stick a fork into GM Ted Thompson one last time. But there should be no doubt that the Packers are the better team. And by the end of the game, the score will reflect that.

I'm calling it Packers 31 - Vikings 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

If it's a new week there must be new Packers

You know that old saying, "You can't tell your players without a program"? Perhaps never has that been more true for fans of the Green Bay Packers than this season.

We're just coming up on the half-way point and there are now 10 Packers on the season-ending injured reserve list, eight of them from the defense (see my post from Tuesday regarding the situation Dom Capers has been dealing with as the defensive coordinator). Defensive lineman Mike Neal and linebackers Brady Poppinga and Brad Jones -- the latter of the Favre-ankle-fracture tackle -- are the latest.

So, over the course of this week, GM Ted Thompson has had to find some bodies. He's added several linebackers and a D-lineman who, perhaps not coincidentally, was picked up on waivers from the Packers' next opponent, the Jets.

You can read more about the new pick ups in the following articles: DT Howard Green, LB Erik Walden, LBs Diyarl Briggs and Erik Wilhelm.

To make room on the roster, LB Maurice Simpkins was cut.

With CB Al Harris and S Atari Bigby ready to be activated either this week or next, the roster is still very much in flux.

While the Packers' linebacking corps has certainly been decimated with injuries, it's interesting that only one defensive lineman has been added given its current lack of depth, as well. Sunday evening against the ViQueens, for example, the Pack was down basically to only three available D-linemen: B. J. Raji, C. J. Wilson and Jarius Wynn. Ryan Pickett was sidelined after a mere seven snaps with a bum ankle and Cullen Jenkins -- already playing one-handed with his other in a cast for the rest of the season -- strained a calf muscle in warmups and was unable to play.

There's no other team in the league that has been hit as hard as the Packers with injuries this early in the season: 10 players on IR among whom are eight members of the defense and which also includes five starters from both sides of the ball. Wow.

If somehow Thompson and the coaches can keep this all together with string and baling wire it will be one heckuva personnel job from top to bottom. Still a long way to go in the season. But it can't get any worse from an injury standpoint, can it? No, really, it can't. Can it???

Packers - Bills preview

With just a couple hours left to kickoff, I'm finally getting around to writing this preview of the Green Bay Packers vs. Buffalo Bills. But as regular readers of PackerFansUnited.com know, I typically wait until the day and morning of the game to lay out my thoughts on what we might expect. So that's my excuse, er, story, and I'm stickin' to it.

But let's start with the facts: the Pack is favored by 13 points despite the Bills leading the series 7-3 (how the heck did that happen, by the way?); the weather is supposed to be great Fall football weather, about 63 degrees and mostly cloudy with little or no wind issues anticipated. And, of course, it is the regular season home opener for the Packers. That should get the Packers' players a bit more jacked up for the game.

Not that they should need it. The Bills are not, at this point, a very good team. On the other hand, as both players and fans learned again last year, even bad teams can take advantage of a flat team on any given day (recall the debacle against the Buccaneers?). But that won't be the case today. Back to the Bills...receiver (and former University of Wisconsin Badger ... go Badgers!) Lee Evans called out QB Trent Edwards this last week for not going downfield more. Now, whether that would be on Edwards or the offensive coordinator, who knows. But don't be surprised if Buffalo does try to stretch the field at the outset to test our young (in spots) secondary, particularly if the pass rush is lacking. But, I don't expect that to happen. I think defensive coordinator Dom Capers can certainly set the players and schemes in motion today to put a lot of pressure on Edwards.

As to the Bills' running game, rookie C.J. Spiller will test the Packers' defense. He will also test the Packers' special teams on kick returns. The running game and the special teams are arguably the two best aspects of the Bills. The secondary isn't bad either, but can they really match up with all the Packers' weapons? Not for the entire day they can't.

So, what about the Pack? Well, we already know that RB Ryan Grant is done for the year and Brandon Jackson is going to get his chance, once again, to be the featured back. Should we expect that the Packers will operate the running portion of their game plan differently than with Grant? Unlikely. The Pack is still a pass-first team. I'd still look for a 60-40 pass to rush ratio. If the Pack gets up big early, it's possible we may see more of Jackson as the day goes on. FB/RB John Kuhn may also get a few carries as he did last week. It's also possible we may even get glimpse or two of recently signed RB Dimitri Nance who was supposedly able to learn a package or two this week, although radio reports this morning indicate that he might not even be active today. As for the air game, look for QB Aaron Rodgers to bounce back from a very subpar performance last week in Philadelphia. He will spread the ball around. TE Jermichael Finley should have a big day. But if the Bills' defense tries to take Finley out of the offense, it's not as if Rodgers doesn't have other options. He's got options up the ying-yang, baby!

The Packers will also be able to run more of a typical defense today. After all, nothing is typical when you're trying to chase Michael Vick all over the field as the Pack had to do last weekend. But we can figure that we will see LB A.J. Hawk actually play from scrimmage today rather than just on special teams. And, given reports of his comments this past week, Hawk was not happy having to stand on the sidelines the entire game last week. Well he shouldn't have been. But while a steady competitor, Hawk has not performed up to expectations of a #5 overall draft pick. Perhaps his pride is hurt a bit. That can often be a good motivator to up one's game. Let's hope so. I like Hawk. But the Packers' linebacking corps is a good one, and some of the other players competing with Hawk for playing time are bringing more to the field right now than is Hawk. It will be interesting to see what he might do today. Keep an eye on Hawk.

The young Packers' secondary held up well last week. Rookies Morgan Burnett and Sam Shields actually performed well for their first NFL game. A few rookie mistakes showed up here and there, but nothing that wound up costing them the game.

As to player status for today's game, early reports were that RG Daryn Colledge was doubtful for today's game; he has been battling an undisclosed illness for the past few days. If Colledge is out, one would expect to see rookie Bryan Bulaga get the start; second-year player T.J. Lang might have also been expected to be in the mix but was just listed as being inactive, which may be a sign that Colledge is good to go after all. Rookie DE Mike Neal is also expected to miss today's game, as he did last week's game, with an abodiminal injury. CB Brandon Underwood is also inactive for today's game after missing last week's contest with a shoulder injury suffered in the last preseason game. FB Korey Hall is also inactive, which means Quinn Johnson will get his first start. LB Desmond Bishop is inactive. DE Cullen Jenkins also probable for today's game; look for him to play with a club on the hand in which he sustained multiple fractures in last Sunday's game.

OK, bottom line prediction: Packers 34 - Bills 13.

Go Pack Go!!!

By the way, for those interested, I will be Tweeting scintillating 140-character commentary during the game. If you are that hardcore -- and if you are reading this, we both know you are -- just click on the "Follow Me on Twitter" button near the top of the righthand column. Or, click here.

Packers' running game takes a hit

The first game of the NFL season took its toll on a number of teams. But the one we care about is the Green Bay Packers. DE Cullen Jenkins had multiple fractures in his hand and could play the entire season with a cast. Back up DE Justin Harrell tore an ACL and is done for the season after being placed on injured reserve yesterday.

Today, however, it was learned that the ankle injury to RB Ryan Grant was more serious than first thought. He sustained ligament damage and, because of the uncertainty of his return time, it was determined to also place Grant on injured reserve, effectively ending his season.

This leaves Brandon Jackson as the primary running back, with FB/RB John Kuhn as the main back up. Rather than working a trade as many thought might happen to bring in an experienced tailback, GM Ted Thompson has opted instead to sign RB Dimitri Nance, a 5-foot-10, 219-pound rookie, from Atlanta’s practice squad. Nance was undrafted out of Arizona State where he received honorable mention All-Pac-10 honors as a senior. He lead the team in rushing for two straight seasons, rushing for 795 yards and six touchdowns in his senior year. He ran the 40- yard dash in 4.63 seconds, had a 33-inch vertical jump, hit 9' 6" on the broad jump, and bench pressed 19 times at his pro day in March. Obviously, he's a developmental player at this stage and a body just in case something else happens to affect running back depth.

All during training camp head coach Mike McCarthy and GM Ted Thompson were touting Jackson's progress as a running back. He certainly seemed to show a bit more of that power in relief of Grant versus the Eagles. Now he'll have to show that a lot more. Some area sports reporters have said that it seemed as if Jackson finally "got it" this year, as he seemed to be a bit more professional in the approach he took during the offseason and during camp. Maybe maturity will translate into success on the field. The coaching staff and management of the Packers seem to be counting on that. The fans have to, as well.

One of the other personnel moves that happened as result of the injuries Sunday was that the Pack re-signed DE Jarius Wynn to fill Harrell's spot. Wynn was a casualty of the last roster cuts. He was with the team last year and, in comments aired by defensive coordinator Dom Capers, that seemed to be one of the primary factors in re-signing Wynn: he was familiar with the system and could be plugged right in to the scheme without any learning curve. Makes sense.

But back to Grant...he posted the following on his Twitter page: "Guess everyone has heard the news..frustrating, disappointing, all the normal emotions..there was a chance with surgery that I come back... This season but I would miss too many weeks and put the team in a bind roster wise.. It was more severe than initially thought during game.. but I just have to move forward and get it right. Anyone who knows me, understands that my spirits WILL stay high..and I will return even better, stronger.. That's how I operate.. " (Oh, by the way, you can follow this blog on Twitter, as well, by clicking on the link in the upper righthand column or by just going here.)

Come back better and stronger, Ryan. I think many fans will finally realize through your absence what you have brought to the offense over the last three years in particular: the fourth best rushing yardage in the entire NFL.

You can read a truly great concise analysis (by Green Bay Press-Gazette sports writer Mike Vandermause) of the situation with Grant and Jackson, and the Packers' probable decision process, here.

The Packers' win from the day after

In the light of day, the day after the Green Bay Packers victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, a few observations. Nothing original. Just one person's take on what went down in Philly.

• Special teams played far better than anyone expected. Jordy Nelson had some great returns and the coverage units kept Eagles returner DeSean Jackson in check for the most part. Punter Tim Masthay performed well in his debut. And K Mason Crosby set a team-record with a 56-yard field goal. He was long and accurate. Good to see. May all continue to perform at this level throughout the season.
• Aaron Rodgers had a not-so-great game. He was 19-31 for 188 yards. Yes, he threw a couple TD passes and when he was on he was on. But he started poorly and had two picks, one on a deflection and another on a ball that appeared to sail on him and missed his receiver badly. Chalk it up to an abberation.
• The offensive line...well, Rodgers was under pressure especially early in the game. For a while, the O-line was looking like what we saw early last season. There were instances where our two old tackles indeed looked old. I recall one instance where both Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher got beat on the same play. It seemed as if they picked up their protection in the second half. We can only hope they play at that level the rest of the season.
• The defensive line...coach Mike McCarthy had decided to have only four down lineman active for the game because of the scheme they thought they'd be running against Eagles QB Kevin Kolb; rookies Mike Neal and C.J. Wilson were not available. And that made things especially challenging when a couple things happened: Kolb left the game with a concussion sustained on a tackle by LB Clay Matthews (more on Mr. Matthews in a bit) and Michael Vick and his legs entered the game; and Cullen Jenkins sustained a broken hand on the first defensive series and had to play the balance of the game one-handed after being fitted with a club, and the oft-injured back up DE Justin Harrell sustained a left knee injury blocking on Crosby's first field goal of 49 yards. So, for a while that meant the entire defensive line consisted of B.J. Raji and Ryan Pickett. The two heavyweights, to their credit, did a fantastic job all things considered. Harrell, by the way, has been placed on the injured reserve list (yes, again) and is done for the year (yes, again). As the TV crew noted during the game, Harrell had only played in 14 games during his prior three years with the team. At what point, a reasonable fan must ask -- and has asked before -- do you just reach an injury settlement with the young man and move on? Clearly, he's going to have to be replaced by either a practice squad player, a free agent or trade. (We will leave aside the running discussion as to whether Harrell should have been a #16 draft pick to begin with...and, by the way, the answer is "No!")
• Linebackers and secondary...Could Clay Matthews possibly do any more than he did yesterday? Man! He appeared to be operating at an entirely different level of speed and power. Fantastic. On the flip side, because of the scheme the Packers planned on running and then had to run with Vick in the game, it turns out that LB A.J. Hawk never played a down from scrimmage. They typically always remove him on passing downs and because the Pack played a nickel/dime defense most of the day, Brandon Chillar, Brad Jones and even undrafted rookie LB Frank Zombo (who had a sack, by the way!) got the reps. Hawk has seemingly disappeared from the defense. Perhaps he could be packaged and traded for either a defensive lineman or a running back (where depth was a concern going into the season and is even more so now...more on that in a minute). The secondary generally held up well. Charles Woodson was, as usual, constantly around the ball. Tramon Williams held up well as did, for the most part, rookies Morgan Burnett and Sam Shields. Shields got turned around and burned on one TD pass and looked very much like a rookie on that play. But all in all, seemed to hold his own for the most part.
• The running game...just when it looked as if that might come around, Ryan Grant left the game with an ankle sprain. Brandon Jackson had some nice runs taking the bulk of the carries after Grant's departure. And FB/RB John Kuhn had a couple powerful runs, including a TD. Coach McCarthy said in his press conference today that Grant will not play in the upcoming game against the Bills. Jackson will be the featured back with Kuhn as the back up. But for all those fans who wanted the Packers to have more depth at running back, yep, we were right. That doesn't get us anywhere, but we were right. Will Ted Thompson do anything to address the situation? It would be a surprise if he did. But that's what makes surprises surprises, right? Let us pray...

Bottom line is that this was a statement game, if there can be such a thing in only the first game of the season. We knew the offense would put up points; not really an area of concern. Yet, this was a game where the offense, particularly Aaron Rodgers, wasn't especially sharp. They still put up 27 points. The areas that were of concern had to do with the defense and special teams, both of which really helped carry the day yesterday. It's a good sign.

For now, let's hope that the injuries to Grant and Jenkins don't present problems throughout the season. Let's wish Justin Harrell well, as it's obvious the young man worked hard to get back on the field despite his injury history. But let's also hope Ted Thompson makes a few moves to add to the D-line and running back depth before they truly become positions of desperation.

Oh...did I mention that I predicted the actual final score of 27-20? (Yeah, I know...enough already!)