There was a time early in his career when, I suspect, many a Packers fan wished that Eagles running back Brian Westbrook would not be so good...especially, it seemed, in every game against the Packers.
The Eagles released Westbrook, now 30 years of age, in February. To date, no team has picked him up. There was some immediate speculation that the ViQueens might add him to their roster with Chester Taylor having signed with Da Bearz. But, not yet.
Now there is word the Pack might be considering Westbrook. He was always a solid back, equally good at receiving as rushing, which might make him an intriguing possibility for the Packers as a reliable third-down back. The catch is that he missed half of last season with two concussions. He's also absorbed a lot of hits over the years, in addition to the concussions. But if he passes a physical, perhaps playing in a limited role might be good for him and a plus for the Packers. The Packers have never been able to find a solid third-down answer under head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure. Westbrook might be a viable option, especially on a one-year contract.
You can read more about the Westbrook scenario here. And if you look at the results of the online poll as to whether the Packers should sign Westbrook or not...well, a lot of people think so.
Draft possibilities at running back
Of course, with the draft a little more than a week away, the Packers are no doubt considering their options at running back there, as well. Several mock drafts have the Pack picking up a running back in the mid to late rounds. Names mentioned include: LeGarrette Blount, Oregon (he of sucker-punch fame, whose early round draft position likely has dropped because of character issues); Joe McKnight, USC; Jahvid Best, California; Anthony Dixon, Mississippi State; Dexter McCluster, Mississippi; Charles Scott, LSU; Andre Dixon, Connecticut; Chris Brown, Oklahoma; Deji Karim, Southern Illinois; Toby Gerhart, Stanford.
We wouldn't expect GM Ted Thompson to use more than one draft pick on a running back, relying instead on his current roster (Ryan Grant, Brandon Jackson, Ahman Green, DeShawn Wynn and Kregg Lumpkin), possibly the pick up of Westbrook, and post-draft street free agent signings to fill out the spring and summer camps. But the Packers could definitely use a solid second back to Grant, someone who could push him, as well as substitute for him especially on third downs. The Packers don't really have any pure speed/juke backs on board. A change of pace back for the opposing defense to have to scheme for would certainly help open up the Packers already potent offense.
Showing posts with label DeShawn Wynn. Show all posts
Showing posts with label DeShawn Wynn. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Penalties and other debris
The topic of ongoing penalties by the Packers under head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure is a topic of much discussion among Packer fans and sports pundits. Some of those thoughts were related in yesterday's post, including links to yet other articles about the topic.
Today, the online edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel has a poll about the subject. At the time of this posting, here are the results:
Does Mike McCarthy show enough concern over the number of Packers penalties?
Guess, coach, fans aren't buying the old song and dance that "we'll get it cleaned up." We've heard that for the last few years and the Packers are still among the most penalized teams in the league. And then, refs begin looking for chances to throw the flags. You think they aren't eyeballing Chad Clifton every time he goes to the line of scrimmage to see if he is actually on the line of scrimmage?
Coach McCarthy also got a bit testy during his news conference yesterday when he was pressed on the subject of penalties. It doesn't really get conveyed in the transcript, but if you listen to the audio you should be able to sense his growing unease talking about the subject. Just go here and then click on coach McCarthy's press conference from Oct. 19.
Flashback or flash forward?
Reports out of Green Bay yesterday are that the Packers had RB Ahman Green in for a tryout yesterday. Whaaaaaaa...??? Yep. Ahman Green. Great. About 10 years ago, that is. Was cut by Houston in February after two seasons of ongoing injuries. At age 32, should he even be considered as a backup? And that's what we're talking here. But isn't it a reflection on personnel and/or coaching decisions when this is where things are at in regards to that position after just five games?
Let's review, shall we?
The decision was to keep Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn as the backups to Ryan Grant. Jackson is serviceable when healthy, which he hasn't been yet this season, being active for the first time against the Lions. Wynn has shown flashes on rare occasions when he's been healthy; his problem, however, is that he has never been healthy -- or willing play through minor injuries -- since he's been in the NFL.
As for the starter, Grant has been a non-factor in any form this season. He finally got off his longest run of the season -- 22 yards -- late in the game Sunday when the Lions had already been beaten. Not entirely his fault. The problems with the offensive line extend beyond giving up a league-leading sack count; there also just haven't been many holes to run through. (One wonders if even a back like Adrian Peterson could do anything given this current line. )
But back to personnel decisions. The Packers kept three fullbacks, which raised eyebrows at the time and perhaps is now coming back to haunt the team. Although this past Sunday, the team was down to only John Kuhn as both Korey Hall and rookie Quinn Johnson were out. But if the Pack had kept their leading rusher of the preseason, undrafted free agent Tyrell Sutton, the team might not now have to be looking at such alternatives as bringing in Ahman Green and Dominic Rhodes, another old-timer (age 30), as help in the running back department. Granted, Sutton might not have been the answer either. But at least he was fast and had fresh legs.
You can read more about this development here. Be sure to especially check out the reader comments afterward. Some priceless feedback.
Game Day Weather Link
In a continuing effort to provide at least some useful tools to Packer fans, I've recently added a "Packers 2009 Home & Away Weather Forecast" link in, appropriately enough, the "Links" section in the righthand column. Check it out there. Or here.
Today, the online edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel has a poll about the subject. At the time of this posting, here are the results:
Does Mike McCarthy show enough concern over the number of Packers penalties?
- Yes (8%)
- No (92%)
Guess, coach, fans aren't buying the old song and dance that "we'll get it cleaned up." We've heard that for the last few years and the Packers are still among the most penalized teams in the league. And then, refs begin looking for chances to throw the flags. You think they aren't eyeballing Chad Clifton every time he goes to the line of scrimmage to see if he is actually on the line of scrimmage?
Coach McCarthy also got a bit testy during his news conference yesterday when he was pressed on the subject of penalties. It doesn't really get conveyed in the transcript, but if you listen to the audio you should be able to sense his growing unease talking about the subject. Just go here and then click on coach McCarthy's press conference from Oct. 19.
Flashback or flash forward?
Reports out of Green Bay yesterday are that the Packers had RB Ahman Green in for a tryout yesterday. Whaaaaaaa...??? Yep. Ahman Green. Great. About 10 years ago, that is. Was cut by Houston in February after two seasons of ongoing injuries. At age 32, should he even be considered as a backup? And that's what we're talking here. But isn't it a reflection on personnel and/or coaching decisions when this is where things are at in regards to that position after just five games?
Let's review, shall we?
The decision was to keep Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn as the backups to Ryan Grant. Jackson is serviceable when healthy, which he hasn't been yet this season, being active for the first time against the Lions. Wynn has shown flashes on rare occasions when he's been healthy; his problem, however, is that he has never been healthy -- or willing play through minor injuries -- since he's been in the NFL.
As for the starter, Grant has been a non-factor in any form this season. He finally got off his longest run of the season -- 22 yards -- late in the game Sunday when the Lions had already been beaten. Not entirely his fault. The problems with the offensive line extend beyond giving up a league-leading sack count; there also just haven't been many holes to run through. (One wonders if even a back like Adrian Peterson could do anything given this current line. )
But back to personnel decisions. The Packers kept three fullbacks, which raised eyebrows at the time and perhaps is now coming back to haunt the team. Although this past Sunday, the team was down to only John Kuhn as both Korey Hall and rookie Quinn Johnson were out. But if the Pack had kept their leading rusher of the preseason, undrafted free agent Tyrell Sutton, the team might not now have to be looking at such alternatives as bringing in Ahman Green and Dominic Rhodes, another old-timer (age 30), as help in the running back department. Granted, Sutton might not have been the answer either. But at least he was fast and had fresh legs.
You can read more about this development here. Be sure to especially check out the reader comments afterward. Some priceless feedback.
Game Day Weather Link
In a continuing effort to provide at least some useful tools to Packer fans, I've recently added a "Packers 2009 Home & Away Weather Forecast" link in, appropriately enough, the "Links" section in the righthand column. Check it out there. Or here.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
An anniversary...
In the wide, wide world of sports today is a day that is distinctive for Gene Sarazen winning the 16th PGA Championship in 1933 at Blue Mound CC in Milwaukee.
Oh, today is also the anniversary of this PackerFansUnited.com blog!
Yep, this ongoing ode to all things Packers got its humble start on this date -- Aug. 13 -- in 2005.
Just thought you'd want to know. So to all you faithful readers out there, thanks for continuing to stop in. And for any new readers, welcome. To one and all, please help spread the word about this little corner of the Packers blogosphere. As the NFL preseason is about to commence, followed by the absolute best sports season of every year, we'll try to provide timely -- or at least, insightful -- news, links, commentary, etc. when it seems worth saying. And you can always find links to other great Packers-related sites, headlines, and even our very own PackerFansUnited.com shop where you can, well, shop. So please do!
Happy Anniversary PackerFansUnited.com! (Somebody had to say it.)
Training camp bits & pieces
Most of this probably doesn't come as any shock to those who follow the Packers closely, but for the casual observer let's just say that there is a bit of concern about the number of walking wounded in camp these days. Early in the week, the Pack had 12 guys on the sidelines with various injuries. That includes the promising but oft-injured TE Tory Humphrey who broke his arm in practice last week; the Packers have placed him on injured reserve which -- along with the surgery required -- likely ends his season before it starts. Humphrey missed part of 2006 with a hamstring injury and all of 2007 with a broken leg. He caught 11 passes in the 2008 season -- the best in his career. Now, done again.
Another promising but oft-injured player is DeShawn Wynn. As reported here and elsewhere, the feeling among several camp observers was that Wynn was finally starting to flash the potential the Pack thought they had when they drafted him a few years back. But there were always raps on his work ethic and willingness to play through injuries. He was out with a bruised knee for a few days but apparently returned to practice today. There is some speculation that he may have passed Brandon Jackson as the primary back up to Ryan Grant. Some guys are injury prone, while others may think they are. If Wynn is able to shake the latter tag -- for himself as much as anyone else -- he could have a dynamite year. Keep your fingers crossed.
And it should come as no surprise -- as much as one really wants to root for the young man -- that Justin Harrell is once again nursing a sore back. On Tuesday, Coach McCarthy, according to news reports, indicated that Harrell would be out indefinitely. But as Green Bay Press-Gazette sportswriter Mike Vandermause said in his column yesterday, no matter what happens this season, the Packers might as well give him one more season to run out his contract on the outside chance they could perhaps get something for him along the way. Check out his column here. It's not Harrell's fault he can't stay healthy. It was and is Ted Thompson's fault for reaching for a player with a history of injury in college and drafting him #16 in the first round. This one will likely go down right alongside former GM/coach Mike Sherman's pick in 2001 of Jamal Reynolds as one of the biggest first round failures in Packers' history...let's not even mention Tony Mandarich...oops, dang!
Raji has left the building
Actually, the Packers' first round pick, B. J. Raji, has done more than that. Raji has reportedly left Green Bay, with all signs pointing to a lengthy hold out. He's not the only first-rounder yet to be signed. But given that a few are right around his #9 slot it seems as if both he and the Packers are willing to take their chances and wait for the salary bar to be set elsewhere rather than in Green Bay. It's not as critical for defensive players to be in on time as it would be for an offensive player. But as every fan knows, the longer any rookie is out of camp the less likely it is that they will perform as expected their first year. The one thing that you don't want to see happen is an entirely wasted season. I don't believe the Packers will allow that to happen. It's still a waiting game. But at some point, someone needs to blink. Let's hope they get this done soon. There are a number of injuries along the defensive line at the moment and the Packers could use Raji not only to get some reps but to get into game shape and condition before the season officially kicks off with that Sunday night game versus Da Bearz.
Oh, today is also the anniversary of this PackerFansUnited.com blog!
Yep, this ongoing ode to all things Packers got its humble start on this date -- Aug. 13 -- in 2005.
Just thought you'd want to know. So to all you faithful readers out there, thanks for continuing to stop in. And for any new readers, welcome. To one and all, please help spread the word about this little corner of the Packers blogosphere. As the NFL preseason is about to commence, followed by the absolute best sports season of every year, we'll try to provide timely -- or at least, insightful -- news, links, commentary, etc. when it seems worth saying. And you can always find links to other great Packers-related sites, headlines, and even our very own PackerFansUnited.com shop where you can, well, shop. So please do!
Happy Anniversary PackerFansUnited.com! (Somebody had to say it.)
Training camp bits & pieces
Most of this probably doesn't come as any shock to those who follow the Packers closely, but for the casual observer let's just say that there is a bit of concern about the number of walking wounded in camp these days. Early in the week, the Pack had 12 guys on the sidelines with various injuries. That includes the promising but oft-injured TE Tory Humphrey who broke his arm in practice last week; the Packers have placed him on injured reserve which -- along with the surgery required -- likely ends his season before it starts. Humphrey missed part of 2006 with a hamstring injury and all of 2007 with a broken leg. He caught 11 passes in the 2008 season -- the best in his career. Now, done again.
Another promising but oft-injured player is DeShawn Wynn. As reported here and elsewhere, the feeling among several camp observers was that Wynn was finally starting to flash the potential the Pack thought they had when they drafted him a few years back. But there were always raps on his work ethic and willingness to play through injuries. He was out with a bruised knee for a few days but apparently returned to practice today. There is some speculation that he may have passed Brandon Jackson as the primary back up to Ryan Grant. Some guys are injury prone, while others may think they are. If Wynn is able to shake the latter tag -- for himself as much as anyone else -- he could have a dynamite year. Keep your fingers crossed.
And it should come as no surprise -- as much as one really wants to root for the young man -- that Justin Harrell is once again nursing a sore back. On Tuesday, Coach McCarthy, according to news reports, indicated that Harrell would be out indefinitely. But as Green Bay Press-Gazette sportswriter Mike Vandermause said in his column yesterday, no matter what happens this season, the Packers might as well give him one more season to run out his contract on the outside chance they could perhaps get something for him along the way. Check out his column here. It's not Harrell's fault he can't stay healthy. It was and is Ted Thompson's fault for reaching for a player with a history of injury in college and drafting him #16 in the first round. This one will likely go down right alongside former GM/coach Mike Sherman's pick in 2001 of Jamal Reynolds as one of the biggest first round failures in Packers' history...let's not even mention Tony Mandarich...oops, dang!
Raji has left the building
Actually, the Packers' first round pick, B. J. Raji, has done more than that. Raji has reportedly left Green Bay, with all signs pointing to a lengthy hold out. He's not the only first-rounder yet to be signed. But given that a few are right around his #9 slot it seems as if both he and the Packers are willing to take their chances and wait for the salary bar to be set elsewhere rather than in Green Bay. It's not as critical for defensive players to be in on time as it would be for an offensive player. But as every fan knows, the longer any rookie is out of camp the less likely it is that they will perform as expected their first year. The one thing that you don't want to see happen is an entirely wasted season. I don't believe the Packers will allow that to happen. It's still a waiting game. But at some point, someone needs to blink. Let's hope they get this done soon. There are a number of injuries along the defensive line at the moment and the Packers could use Raji not only to get some reps but to get into game shape and condition before the season officially kicks off with that Sunday night game versus Da Bearz.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Training camp insights
It has finally arrived, Packer fans: summer training camp! As most all of you know, workouts began Saturday. Reports out of Green Bay are that in the first few practices things appear to be much more physical on both sides of the ball than in prior camps under head coach Mike McCarthy. Certainly this was a weakness the past season. Perhaps new defensive coordinator Dom Capers, long known as a task master, has something to do with it. In fact, it has been reported by on-site observers that the defensive play is making the offense play with a more physical approach, as well. That can only bode well long-term.
There were even reports of a few tussles here and there between some offensive and defensive linemen. Nothing serious. Just enough shirt grabbing, etc. to demonstrate an intensity that might not have been there last year. Defensive players seem to be jumping on board the new 3-4 scheme. Al Harris has noted that the team definitely has the players to make the scheme work. Others have said that they enjoy playing in a scheme that has some unpredictability to it...something that couldn't be said last season. The only member of the defense remaining unsigned is first round pick B. J. Raji. He's a lineman, so not critical he be in at the moment. He is in Green Bay, according to fellow first-rounder, Clay Matthews, and is itching to get to camp. But until some of the other first rounders sign and set salary ranges don't expect much movement soon. If he can get into camp at least a week before the first preseason game (Aug. 15), he should be able to play in that game.
On the offensive side of things, the main goal of the camp is to settle on a starting line. So there is still a bit of shuffling going on, with perhaps the main competition coming at center where incumbent Scott Wells is in a battle with Jason Spitz for the starting job.
While Ryan Grant is still the starting running back, there is strong competition for that "change of pace" back the Packers haven't really seen much of the last few years. Brandon Jackson showed flashes late last season. Third-year back, DeShawn Wynn has come in a bit lighter than past camps; whether he can finally demonstrate the toughness to go with his speed remains to be seen. Rookie free agent Tyrell Sutton out of Northwestern is apparently also showing great speed on the field and, according to radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee, has the smarts to pick up blocking assignments, etc., and could make a real push to be part of the final roster. Rookie fullback Quinn Johnson has reportedly been delivery crushing blocks. And speaking of blocks, and back to the more physical nature of camp so far, offensive linemen have been sustaining blocks as far as 10 yards downfield, whereas in the past perhaps a 5 yard push would have been the extent of things.
On the receiving side, the Pack retains one of the best receiving groups in the league. Yay! And, as we saw last year, we have a QB in Aaron Rodgers that can get the ball to them anywhere on the field. Perhaps this year that will also include more catches by second-year TE Jermichael Finley. Putting behind him a dismal rookie season in which he basically didn't understand what it took to be a pro, Finley is saying all the right things this year, as well as so far bringing that new attitude to the practice field. If the Pack can continue to operate at the same high level it did last year with the wide receivers, get the running game going, and then toss in a real tight end threat...man oh man! It's an offense that could create real havoc on opposing defenses.
Apparently the only area of the squad at present that seems to be a problem is punting. So what else is new, right? That has basically been the case since Craig Hentrich was allowed to shuffle off to Tennessee in 1997. Old news, true. But not being able to (a) find a reliable punter and/or (b) keep him, has been an ongoing problem. Neither Durant Brooks or Jeremy Kapinos seems to be pleasing coach McCarthy. And the problem is, there really aren't many alternatives at the moment. Keep your fingers crossed on this front.
Just a word about Justin
That would of course be a reference to former first round pick, Justin Harrell. He was a surprise choice at #16 three seasons ago. And his entire career at this point with the Packers has essentially been one of injury.
By all reports, Harrell is a fine young man and would be a real asset on the field...if he is healthy. Perhaps for the first time since he's been in Green Bay, that might finally be the case. At least he is on the practice field and is what coach McCarthy calls "a full-go participant." It would be great to see him live up to his potential, or even come close, for that matter.
If you want to get a better appreciation for the trials he's been through physically, as well as the work he's put in to get back on the field this summer, check out this great article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. It's worth the read. Good luck, kid. Hope it works out for you...and the Packers.
There were even reports of a few tussles here and there between some offensive and defensive linemen. Nothing serious. Just enough shirt grabbing, etc. to demonstrate an intensity that might not have been there last year. Defensive players seem to be jumping on board the new 3-4 scheme. Al Harris has noted that the team definitely has the players to make the scheme work. Others have said that they enjoy playing in a scheme that has some unpredictability to it...something that couldn't be said last season. The only member of the defense remaining unsigned is first round pick B. J. Raji. He's a lineman, so not critical he be in at the moment. He is in Green Bay, according to fellow first-rounder, Clay Matthews, and is itching to get to camp. But until some of the other first rounders sign and set salary ranges don't expect much movement soon. If he can get into camp at least a week before the first preseason game (Aug. 15), he should be able to play in that game.
On the offensive side of things, the main goal of the camp is to settle on a starting line. So there is still a bit of shuffling going on, with perhaps the main competition coming at center where incumbent Scott Wells is in a battle with Jason Spitz for the starting job.
While Ryan Grant is still the starting running back, there is strong competition for that "change of pace" back the Packers haven't really seen much of the last few years. Brandon Jackson showed flashes late last season. Third-year back, DeShawn Wynn has come in a bit lighter than past camps; whether he can finally demonstrate the toughness to go with his speed remains to be seen. Rookie free agent Tyrell Sutton out of Northwestern is apparently also showing great speed on the field and, according to radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee, has the smarts to pick up blocking assignments, etc., and could make a real push to be part of the final roster. Rookie fullback Quinn Johnson has reportedly been delivery crushing blocks. And speaking of blocks, and back to the more physical nature of camp so far, offensive linemen have been sustaining blocks as far as 10 yards downfield, whereas in the past perhaps a 5 yard push would have been the extent of things.
On the receiving side, the Pack retains one of the best receiving groups in the league. Yay! And, as we saw last year, we have a QB in Aaron Rodgers that can get the ball to them anywhere on the field. Perhaps this year that will also include more catches by second-year TE Jermichael Finley. Putting behind him a dismal rookie season in which he basically didn't understand what it took to be a pro, Finley is saying all the right things this year, as well as so far bringing that new attitude to the practice field. If the Pack can continue to operate at the same high level it did last year with the wide receivers, get the running game going, and then toss in a real tight end threat...man oh man! It's an offense that could create real havoc on opposing defenses.
Apparently the only area of the squad at present that seems to be a problem is punting. So what else is new, right? That has basically been the case since Craig Hentrich was allowed to shuffle off to Tennessee in 1997. Old news, true. But not being able to (a) find a reliable punter and/or (b) keep him, has been an ongoing problem. Neither Durant Brooks or Jeremy Kapinos seems to be pleasing coach McCarthy. And the problem is, there really aren't many alternatives at the moment. Keep your fingers crossed on this front.
Just a word about Justin
That would of course be a reference to former first round pick, Justin Harrell. He was a surprise choice at #16 three seasons ago. And his entire career at this point with the Packers has essentially been one of injury.
By all reports, Harrell is a fine young man and would be a real asset on the field...if he is healthy. Perhaps for the first time since he's been in Green Bay, that might finally be the case. At least he is on the practice field and is what coach McCarthy calls "a full-go participant." It would be great to see him live up to his potential, or even come close, for that matter.
If you want to get a better appreciation for the trials he's been through physically, as well as the work he's put in to get back on the field this summer, check out this great article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. It's worth the read. Good luck, kid. Hope it works out for you...and the Packers.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Packers win 31-21!
It wasn't pretty. And the Lions didn't fold. But the Packers were finally able to put the Lions in the record books as the first team with an 0-16 record by beating them 31-21.
The Pack scored 17 points in the final quarter while holding the Lions to a sole touchdown.
The first score of the 4th quarter came early on a 36-yard field goal by Mason Crosby to put the Packers up 17-14. About 5 minutes later, the Pack went up by 10 on a 5-yard TD catch by FB John Kuhn, making the score 24-14.
But as so often has been the case this season, the Packers gave up their newly-found momentum quickly. It took the Lions only about a minute to go 80 yards for a TD to pull back within 3 points, at 24-21. It came courtesy of two big pass plays, including a blown coverage. Once again, it looked like the defense might collapse and give away a victory.
But on the Packers' first play after the ensuing kickoff, Aaron Rodgers hit a wide open Donald Driver on a rainbow 71-yard TD pass to put the Pack back up by 10, 31-21.
There were a number of nervous moments in the following 7 minutes of the game. One real turning point was on a Detroit drive when Lions rookie RB Kevin Smith was flagged on the Packers' sideline for a 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalty. That put Detroit in a 3rd and 4th and 28 situation from which they could not recover. In fact, Nick Collins got another pick -- matching Charles Woodson's 7 -- to essentially seal the deal with a little over 2 minutes remaining. The Packers never gave the ball back after that.
A few high water marks occurred in this game. Rodgers threw for more than 4,000 yards this season. Since 1970, he is only the second quarterback to have done that in the same season as his first career start; the only other to have done so was Kurt Warner. Rodgers threw 3 TDs on the day, putting him at 28 for the season versus 13 interceptions...a pretty darn good season by any measure. Donald Driver, for the fifth straight season, had more than 1,000 yards in receptions. Ryan Grant rushed for 106 yards today, taking him over 1,200 for the season. DeShawn Wynn also finished with 106 yards rushing today, with 73 of those yards coming on his first quarter TD run.
The Packers didn't play a great game by any stretch of the imagination. But we got the win. The fact that the Lions were in it so late was not only a tribute to them but also a real reminder of all the glitches the Packers need to address in the offseason.
There is no reason this team should be 6-10 and packing up their lockers.
Except themselves.
The Pack scored 17 points in the final quarter while holding the Lions to a sole touchdown.
The first score of the 4th quarter came early on a 36-yard field goal by Mason Crosby to put the Packers up 17-14. About 5 minutes later, the Pack went up by 10 on a 5-yard TD catch by FB John Kuhn, making the score 24-14.
But as so often has been the case this season, the Packers gave up their newly-found momentum quickly. It took the Lions only about a minute to go 80 yards for a TD to pull back within 3 points, at 24-21. It came courtesy of two big pass plays, including a blown coverage. Once again, it looked like the defense might collapse and give away a victory.
But on the Packers' first play after the ensuing kickoff, Aaron Rodgers hit a wide open Donald Driver on a rainbow 71-yard TD pass to put the Pack back up by 10, 31-21.
There were a number of nervous moments in the following 7 minutes of the game. One real turning point was on a Detroit drive when Lions rookie RB Kevin Smith was flagged on the Packers' sideline for a 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalty. That put Detroit in a 3rd and 4th and 28 situation from which they could not recover. In fact, Nick Collins got another pick -- matching Charles Woodson's 7 -- to essentially seal the deal with a little over 2 minutes remaining. The Packers never gave the ball back after that.
A few high water marks occurred in this game. Rodgers threw for more than 4,000 yards this season. Since 1970, he is only the second quarterback to have done that in the same season as his first career start; the only other to have done so was Kurt Warner. Rodgers threw 3 TDs on the day, putting him at 28 for the season versus 13 interceptions...a pretty darn good season by any measure. Donald Driver, for the fifth straight season, had more than 1,000 yards in receptions. Ryan Grant rushed for 106 yards today, taking him over 1,200 for the season. DeShawn Wynn also finished with 106 yards rushing today, with 73 of those yards coming on his first quarter TD run.
The Packers didn't play a great game by any stretch of the imagination. But we got the win. The fact that the Lions were in it so late was not only a tribute to them but also a real reminder of all the glitches the Packers need to address in the offseason.
There is no reason this team should be 6-10 and packing up their lockers.
Except themselves.
End of 1st quarter: Packers 14 - Lions 0
If a fast start was what the Packers wanted -- and it was -- they got it. Although it didn't look as if that was the case on their opening possession of the game.
After getting a roughly 47-yard kickoff return by Jordy Nelson to set the Pack up inside Lions territory, and then moving the ball a bit, QB Aaron Rodgers had the ball slip out of his throwing hand as he went to pass. Fortunately, the Packers recovered the ball...back in their own territory. This set up a 2nd and 34. Eventually facing a 4th and 12, the Packers went for it...why not? Rodgers threw an underneath pass to Donald Driver who was only able to get 8 of the 12 yards needed.
The Pack held the Lions. On their next possession, the Pack faced a 3rd and 4 situation. Rodgers pitched the ball to DeShawn Wynn who then went around the right side untouched for 73 yards and a TD. Packers 7 - Lions 0.
The other highlights of the quarter were the seventh pass interception of the season by Charles Woodson and the subsequent first career TD catch by rookie TE Jermichael Finley on a 3-yard endzone fade pass from Rodgers. Packers 14 - Lions 0.
One of the disconcerting aspects of the quarter was the number of dropped passes. There were 4 in the quarter, 3 by Greg Jennings.
After getting a roughly 47-yard kickoff return by Jordy Nelson to set the Pack up inside Lions territory, and then moving the ball a bit, QB Aaron Rodgers had the ball slip out of his throwing hand as he went to pass. Fortunately, the Packers recovered the ball...back in their own territory. This set up a 2nd and 34. Eventually facing a 4th and 12, the Packers went for it...why not? Rodgers threw an underneath pass to Donald Driver who was only able to get 8 of the 12 yards needed.
The Pack held the Lions. On their next possession, the Pack faced a 3rd and 4 situation. Rodgers pitched the ball to DeShawn Wynn who then went around the right side untouched for 73 yards and a TD. Packers 7 - Lions 0.
The other highlights of the quarter were the seventh pass interception of the season by Charles Woodson and the subsequent first career TD catch by rookie TE Jermichael Finley on a 3-yard endzone fade pass from Rodgers. Packers 14 - Lions 0.
One of the disconcerting aspects of the quarter was the number of dropped passes. There were 4 in the quarter, 3 by Greg Jennings.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Packers make first roster moves
To get to the the NFL-mandated 75-player limit of this week, the Packers have made 5 roster moves as of today. According to the Packers official website, they released RB DeShawn Wynn -- who started 4 games last season but couldn't seem to stay healthy then or now -- and FB Ryan Powdrell, along with WR Chris Francies and OL Ryan Considine. The Packers also placed last season's first round draft pick, DT Justin Harrell, on the reserve/physically unable to perform list meaning he can't be placed on the active roster during the first six weeks of the season. According to the info on the Packers official site, "After that time, they (the players) are eligible to practice with the club for up to three weeks. If a player is activated from the reserve/PUP list to the active roster, a subsequent roster move must be made to maintain the 53-man active roster limit."
So, what this all seems to indicate is that the running back situation is coming down to Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson, both locks, and perhaps a three-way battle for two spots between Noah Herron, Vernand Morency and the fast-rising rookie free agent, Kregg Lumpkin. Lumpkin leads the Packers with 17 carries for 87 yards this preseason, while Herron has 10 carries for 52 yards, Jackson nine for 54 and Morency one for 1. The Packers have always liked Herron's reliability, if not durability, and Morency's third down play catching passes out of the backfield. But Lumpkin has been intriguing. Check out this article to find out more about this young man from Georgia.
It also means, speaking of Justin Harrell, that the Ted Thompson doubters/haters out there will continue to fault him for making this pick last season. Certainly, the longer it takes for Harrell to even make it onto the playing field -- if he ever does -- the more he's going to have to show to mitigate the skepticism Packer fans will likely have.
So, what this all seems to indicate is that the running back situation is coming down to Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson, both locks, and perhaps a three-way battle for two spots between Noah Herron, Vernand Morency and the fast-rising rookie free agent, Kregg Lumpkin. Lumpkin leads the Packers with 17 carries for 87 yards this preseason, while Herron has 10 carries for 52 yards, Jackson nine for 54 and Morency one for 1. The Packers have always liked Herron's reliability, if not durability, and Morency's third down play catching passes out of the backfield. But Lumpkin has been intriguing. Check out this article to find out more about this young man from Georgia.
It also means, speaking of Justin Harrell, that the Ted Thompson doubters/haters out there will continue to fault him for making this pick last season. Certainly, the longer it takes for Harrell to even make it onto the playing field -- if he ever does -- the more he's going to have to show to mitigate the skepticism Packer fans will likely have.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Pack picks up first preseason win
The Packers beat the Broncos last evening in Denver, 27-24. While it was only a preseason game, players and coaches alike all said it was basically a must-win game, especially after the fall-on-your-face performance at San Fran last weekend. And because the final preseason game will not have the starters playing very long. So, this was basically the starters chance to perform.
The Packers' first team offense, led by QB Aaron Rodgers, came out clicking and scored a TD on an opening 80-yard drive. Rodgers was 4 out of 5 passing, for 69 yards and a TD pass to Donald Driver. His passes looked sharp, and he also looked comfortable rolling out of the pocket and throwing. Playing into the third quarter, Rodgers was 18 for 22, 193 yards, 1 TD passing and 1 TD rushing on a goal line QB sneak. (He had a passer rating of 118.4 for the stat geeks out there.)
Basically, Rodgers and the first team offense were pretty much everything they weren't against the 'Niners. The Pack scored in four out of five possessions under Rodgers, gaining 217 yards and picking up 15 first downs. This was what we were waiting to see.
The game was in doubt, though, until about the last 3 minutes of the game when rookie free agent RB -- and someone who is starting to catch attention -- Kregg Lumpkin took it in for the go-ahead score on fourth down from the 1-yard line. This followed a turnover by the Broncos at their own 10-yard line when DE Jason Hunter hit QB Patrick Ramsey just as he was attempting a pass; his pass was knocked into the air and LB Tracy White was waiting with open arms for the interception.
For as good as the starting offense looked, the same could not be said for the starting defense. In particular, Denver's running game gashed the Pack time after time for 91 yards rushing (a 6.1 yd. per carry average) and 206 total yards. And that was just in the first half. There was also no pass rush to speak of. Again. Like in the prior two games. No sacks and only two knockdowns coming from Aaron Kampman. Granted, the defense was without LB A.J. Hawk. But...c'mon...
Injuries mounting up
In addition to Hawk being out with a chest injury suffered in the last game -- and reportedly not even being day to day but week to week -- several players got injured in last night's game. Rookie RG Josh Sitton and safeties Nick Collins and Atari Bigby were all injured in the first half and didn't return to the game. WR James Jones injured his right knee in the second half and also didn't return, although he didn't seem to be bothered by it later on judging by his sideline behavior.
In addition to these in-game injuries, eight Packers didn't even make the trip: the aforementioned A.J. Hawk, RB Ryan Grant, C Scott Wells, DT Ryan Pickett, S Charlie Peprah, RB DeShawn Wynn, DT Justin Harrell (yeah, shocking, isn't it?) and DE Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila. As reports note, Grant, Harrell, Pickett and Gbaja-Biamila have not played a down during the exhibition season.
"A Few Seconds of Panic"
No, this is not what you may feel when asked by your doctor to...well, OK, that is what you feel when your doctor asks you to do...anything. But that's beside the point. In this case, the reference is actually the title to a new book by sportswriter Stefan Fatsis. Subtitled “A 5-Foot-8, 170-Pound, 43-Year-old Sportswriter Plays in the NFL," the book chronicles Fatsis' experience as part of the Denver Broncos training camp where he worked out and practiced with the kickers. The NFL, however, wouldn't even let him kick an extra point in an exhibition game. Still, he came away learning a lot about the game and especially how the players view their chosen profession.
Fatsis was interviewed in this week's broadcast of "Only a Game" on NPR. You can read a brief book review here. If you want to listen to the on-air interview, go here and then scroll down to the bottom of the page where you can click on the player for that segment. It's worth a listen.
The Packers' first team offense, led by QB Aaron Rodgers, came out clicking and scored a TD on an opening 80-yard drive. Rodgers was 4 out of 5 passing, for 69 yards and a TD pass to Donald Driver. His passes looked sharp, and he also looked comfortable rolling out of the pocket and throwing. Playing into the third quarter, Rodgers was 18 for 22, 193 yards, 1 TD passing and 1 TD rushing on a goal line QB sneak. (He had a passer rating of 118.4 for the stat geeks out there.)
Basically, Rodgers and the first team offense were pretty much everything they weren't against the 'Niners. The Pack scored in four out of five possessions under Rodgers, gaining 217 yards and picking up 15 first downs. This was what we were waiting to see.
The game was in doubt, though, until about the last 3 minutes of the game when rookie free agent RB -- and someone who is starting to catch attention -- Kregg Lumpkin took it in for the go-ahead score on fourth down from the 1-yard line. This followed a turnover by the Broncos at their own 10-yard line when DE Jason Hunter hit QB Patrick Ramsey just as he was attempting a pass; his pass was knocked into the air and LB Tracy White was waiting with open arms for the interception.
For as good as the starting offense looked, the same could not be said for the starting defense. In particular, Denver's running game gashed the Pack time after time for 91 yards rushing (a 6.1 yd. per carry average) and 206 total yards. And that was just in the first half. There was also no pass rush to speak of. Again. Like in the prior two games. No sacks and only two knockdowns coming from Aaron Kampman. Granted, the defense was without LB A.J. Hawk. But...c'mon...
Injuries mounting up
In addition to Hawk being out with a chest injury suffered in the last game -- and reportedly not even being day to day but week to week -- several players got injured in last night's game. Rookie RG Josh Sitton and safeties Nick Collins and Atari Bigby were all injured in the first half and didn't return to the game. WR James Jones injured his right knee in the second half and also didn't return, although he didn't seem to be bothered by it later on judging by his sideline behavior.
In addition to these in-game injuries, eight Packers didn't even make the trip: the aforementioned A.J. Hawk, RB Ryan Grant, C Scott Wells, DT Ryan Pickett, S Charlie Peprah, RB DeShawn Wynn, DT Justin Harrell (yeah, shocking, isn't it?) and DE Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila. As reports note, Grant, Harrell, Pickett and Gbaja-Biamila have not played a down during the exhibition season.
"A Few Seconds of Panic"
No, this is not what you may feel when asked by your doctor to...well, OK, that is what you feel when your doctor asks you to do...anything. But that's beside the point. In this case, the reference is actually the title to a new book by sportswriter Stefan Fatsis. Subtitled “A 5-Foot-8, 170-Pound, 43-Year-old Sportswriter Plays in the NFL," the book chronicles Fatsis' experience as part of the Denver Broncos training camp where he worked out and practiced with the kickers. The NFL, however, wouldn't even let him kick an extra point in an exhibition game. Still, he came away learning a lot about the game and especially how the players view their chosen profession.
Fatsis was interviewed in this week's broadcast of "Only a Game" on NPR. You can read a brief book review here. If you want to listen to the on-air interview, go here and then scroll down to the bottom of the page where you can click on the player for that segment. It's worth a listen.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Robinson activated, Wynn put on IR, Grant named starting RB
As expected, the Packers activated WR Koren Robinson on Tuesday. To make room for him on the roster, rather than release receiver/returner Shawn Bodiford as some had speculated, the Packers placed rookie running back DeShawn Wynn on injured reserve for the season.
This does probably make the most sense, as Wynn has had problems all season staying on the field. After being named the starting running back for Monday night's game, he suffered neck and shoulder injuries on the first play of the game. One of the reasons Wynn supposedly fell to the seventh round in this year's draft was that he had a reputation for not being tough, for not playing through the dings that come with being a running back. Now, injuries are injuries. It's just that there are some injuries players have to learn to play through if they are going to have a NFL career. Whether Wynn will acquire some playing toughness will now have to wait to next season. He certainly has the physical attributes to be a powerful runner. There were flashes of that in the few carries he actually had. But...
Ryan Grant was named the starting running back on Monday. After his performance against the Broncos -- 22 carries for 104 yards -- he certainly deserves the opportunity. As Packers broadcaster, Wayne Larrivee, said about him, he was running with authority and delivering blows on the tacklers. And that's something that hadn't been seen much this season. Granted, Denver has the league's worst rushing defense. But the Packers had the league's worst rushing offense. At least we finally saw a glimmer of hope for that part of the game plan going forward. Let's hope that Grant can stay healthy for the remaining nine games.
This does probably make the most sense, as Wynn has had problems all season staying on the field. After being named the starting running back for Monday night's game, he suffered neck and shoulder injuries on the first play of the game. One of the reasons Wynn supposedly fell to the seventh round in this year's draft was that he had a reputation for not being tough, for not playing through the dings that come with being a running back. Now, injuries are injuries. It's just that there are some injuries players have to learn to play through if they are going to have a NFL career. Whether Wynn will acquire some playing toughness will now have to wait to next season. He certainly has the physical attributes to be a powerful runner. There were flashes of that in the few carries he actually had. But...
Ryan Grant was named the starting running back on Monday. After his performance against the Broncos -- 22 carries for 104 yards -- he certainly deserves the opportunity. As Packers broadcaster, Wayne Larrivee, said about him, he was running with authority and delivering blows on the tacklers. And that's something that hadn't been seen much this season. Granted, Denver has the league's worst rushing defense. But the Packers had the league's worst rushing offense. At least we finally saw a glimmer of hope for that part of the game plan going forward. Let's hope that Grant can stay healthy for the remaining nine games.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Packers vs. Chargers Preview
What to make of this game? The Packers are 5-point underdogs...at home! Of course, the odds makers are looking at the Bolts through their preseason Super Bowl-tinged glasses, and the Packers as maybe -- maybe -- an 8-8 team. Still, the Packers are 2-0, the Bolts 1-1. The Packers are coming off two energizing victories; they were not expected to win either game. The Chargers are coming off a cross-country loss to the Patriots. Now they have to travel again. And then they have three consecutive games against AFC West opponents. So this game might not have the urgency for the Chargers that some upcoming games do.
While the Packers running game or lack thereof has been the subject of much angst among fans dating back to the loss of Ahman Green this Spring, it might surprise folks to learn that both the Packers and the Chargers have exactly the same number of rushing yards coming into today's game. Each team has rushed for exactly 64.5 yards per game. Now, refresh my memory: which team is it that has LaDainian Tomlinson, the NFL MVP, at running back? And which team has...running back by committee? The nightmare scenario for Packers fans, of course, is that this is the weekend that Tomlinson and the Chargers decide to uncork their running game.
But...if the Packers can keep LT in check, at least not allow him to break any big runs, that means the game goes into the hands of QB Phil Rivers. If that happens, look for the Packers to load up against what is considered to be a weak right tackle situation; the Chargers regular RT, Shane Olivea, got hurt in last week's game and is expected to be replaced by second-year tackle Jerome Clary whose first-ever action was last week...where he was taken to school by the Pat's Ty Warren. Despite probably having to face a double-team most of the day to assist Clary, Aaron Kampman and KGB could have big days if the defense is able to bottle up LT and force Rivers to drop back. And Johnny Jolly has shown an ability to get just enough of his 6-3, 312-pound (is that all? c'mon!) body off the ground to bat down or tip passes at the line. And assuming our LBs and DBs don't fall down or miss tackles, the Pack should be able to keep receivers in check.
On the Packers side of things, the offense gets back WR Greg Jennings. Throw him into the mix with Donald Driver, James Jones and a resurgent tight end group, and Brett has even more air weapons to exploit than he did against the Giants. Now, can the Pack get any semblance of a running game going today? The Chargers defense is giving up 112 rushing yards per game. Compare that with the Packers allowing 98.5 yards rushing per game. The Bolts play a 3-4 defense, and the "3" are stout. Until the Packers can demonstrate the ability to move the ball on the ground, the jury is out. Last week, we saw two brief glimmers of what rookie DeShawn Wynn might be able to do. While there will still be shuffling going on the backfield until someone emerges to take on the load, we might well expect that Wynn may see more action today than will Brandon Jackson.
A 5-point spread. If you're a betting man (or woman), take the Pack to beat the spread. And win the game.
While the Packers running game or lack thereof has been the subject of much angst among fans dating back to the loss of Ahman Green this Spring, it might surprise folks to learn that both the Packers and the Chargers have exactly the same number of rushing yards coming into today's game. Each team has rushed for exactly 64.5 yards per game. Now, refresh my memory: which team is it that has LaDainian Tomlinson, the NFL MVP, at running back? And which team has...running back by committee? The nightmare scenario for Packers fans, of course, is that this is the weekend that Tomlinson and the Chargers decide to uncork their running game.
But...if the Packers can keep LT in check, at least not allow him to break any big runs, that means the game goes into the hands of QB Phil Rivers. If that happens, look for the Packers to load up against what is considered to be a weak right tackle situation; the Chargers regular RT, Shane Olivea, got hurt in last week's game and is expected to be replaced by second-year tackle Jerome Clary whose first-ever action was last week...where he was taken to school by the Pat's Ty Warren. Despite probably having to face a double-team most of the day to assist Clary, Aaron Kampman and KGB could have big days if the defense is able to bottle up LT and force Rivers to drop back. And Johnny Jolly has shown an ability to get just enough of his 6-3, 312-pound (is that all? c'mon!) body off the ground to bat down or tip passes at the line. And assuming our LBs and DBs don't fall down or miss tackles, the Pack should be able to keep receivers in check.
On the Packers side of things, the offense gets back WR Greg Jennings. Throw him into the mix with Donald Driver, James Jones and a resurgent tight end group, and Brett has even more air weapons to exploit than he did against the Giants. Now, can the Pack get any semblance of a running game going today? The Chargers defense is giving up 112 rushing yards per game. Compare that with the Packers allowing 98.5 yards rushing per game. The Bolts play a 3-4 defense, and the "3" are stout. Until the Packers can demonstrate the ability to move the ball on the ground, the jury is out. Last week, we saw two brief glimmers of what rookie DeShawn Wynn might be able to do. While there will still be shuffling going on the backfield until someone emerges to take on the load, we might well expect that Wynn may see more action today than will Brandon Jackson.
A 5-point spread. If you're a betting man (or woman), take the Pack to beat the spread. And win the game.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Pack vs Giants recap
The Pack is now 2-0 for the first time since 2001. Brett was lighting it up. In fact, he started the second half 14 for 14. Finished the day 29 for 28 with 3 TDs and 1 INT. Not bad for an ol' gunslinger who is just supposed to "manage the game." R-i-i-i-i-i-i-i-i-ght.
Due to some technical difficulties on this end, I wasn't able to provide the 3rd and 4th quarter wrap ups that I try to do when possible. So, let me just provide a few observations about the second half, where the Packers broke the game wide open. You can obviously find more game detail and stats elsewhere. This is just one fan's take on a few of the key moments, along with some comments.
3rd quarter...a 2-yard TD pass to Bubba Franks put the Pack ahead 14-10 The Giants eventually kicked another field goal to make the score 14-13. At this point, it still looked like it might be a close game.
Brett opened the 4th quarter going 9 for 9 for nearly 80 yards and a TD pass to Donald Lee in the corner of the end zone to put the Pack up 21-10. The ensuing kickoff return was fumbled by the Giants and recovered by special teams demon Tracey White at the Giants 22. The Packers were soon up 28-10 on a TD pass to Donald Driver at the back of the end zone. With about 6-1/2 minutes to go in the game, Eli Manning was pressured out of the pocket, panicked, and instead of throwing the ball out of bounds threw it back into the field directly into the arms of lineman Corey White at the Packers 47-yard line. A few plays later, rookie RB DeShawn Wynn bounced a run to the outside and turned what probably should have been a 4-yard gain into a 38-yard touchdown run. Packers 35-Giants 13. Manning was replaced by the Giants' back up QB with a little more than 4 minutes left in the game. He was injured not long thereafter, but stayed in as long as he could before giving way to the Giants emergency QB with a little more than 2 minutes to go. The Giants did mount a little drive, and threw to the end zone on 4th down. DB Jared Bush broke up what would have been a sure TD, preserving the margin of victory. Game over.
A few reflections
Brett looked great, and it looked like he was having a lot of fun both on the field and on the sideline. He might be gaining confidence in some of the kids around him. And that's a very good thing. In addition to becoming the winningest (is that a word?) QB of all time, he is now only 4 TD passes away from setting the all time TD pass record. And, oh yeah, his teammates gave him the game ball.
The offensive line...still needs dramatic improvement. Better than last week, but still not anywhere close to creating a sufficient running game. Pass protection was better, but on the other hand, the Giants defensive line was patchwork...which also makes the line's inability to generate a rushing game disappointing. Although they did go from 47 yards rushing last week to 83 today...yeah, you're right, it still sucks. And even that figure is misleading because Wynn's TD run accounted for 38 of the 83...so, yeah, sucky.
Speaking of Wynn, his two TD runs -- one for 6 and and the other for 38 -- both demonstrated why the Packers picked him. They may have gotten a diamond in the rough. His "issues" caused him to drop to the 7th round where the Packers decided to take a shot on him. After missing a lot of training camp with injury, he's only now actually getting back into playing form. If he continues to work hard, he could wind up being a key factor in the Pack's backfield this year. He has speed, he can cut with the best of them, and he has power. The jury is still out, but you have to like these little flashes you see.
Special teams continues to make a difference. And Tracey White is really excelling in this area. So is returner Tramon Williams, who had a couple nice returns today, including a 42-yarder.
Charles Woodson missed more than a handful of tackles today. It reminds one of what we saw out of him early in the season last year. He has to do a better job. Pride and experience indicate he will.
The Giants helped the Packers a great deal today. Not only with the turnovers, but with several key penalties that stopped their own drives or kept Packers drives going. That's part of the game too. We'll take it.
The Pack returns to Lambeau next week to take on the Chargers, who smacked Da Bearz around in week #1 and are, as I write this, trailing the New England Pilferers, er, Patriots, 17-0 in the first half. The Packers have shown that they are a team with a good defense, a good special teams unit, and an offense that maybe is coming together. There are no easy games. And given that the Bolts are expected by some to go to and perhaps win the Super Bowl this season, this will be a tough game. But one which maybe will show whether the Packers are for real this season.
But hey, we're 2-0. And Da Bearz aren't. That still feels mighty fine! So does winning 6 in a row going back to last year. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Due to some technical difficulties on this end, I wasn't able to provide the 3rd and 4th quarter wrap ups that I try to do when possible. So, let me just provide a few observations about the second half, where the Packers broke the game wide open. You can obviously find more game detail and stats elsewhere. This is just one fan's take on a few of the key moments, along with some comments.
3rd quarter...a 2-yard TD pass to Bubba Franks put the Pack ahead 14-10 The Giants eventually kicked another field goal to make the score 14-13. At this point, it still looked like it might be a close game.
Brett opened the 4th quarter going 9 for 9 for nearly 80 yards and a TD pass to Donald Lee in the corner of the end zone to put the Pack up 21-10. The ensuing kickoff return was fumbled by the Giants and recovered by special teams demon Tracey White at the Giants 22. The Packers were soon up 28-10 on a TD pass to Donald Driver at the back of the end zone. With about 6-1/2 minutes to go in the game, Eli Manning was pressured out of the pocket, panicked, and instead of throwing the ball out of bounds threw it back into the field directly into the arms of lineman Corey White at the Packers 47-yard line. A few plays later, rookie RB DeShawn Wynn bounced a run to the outside and turned what probably should have been a 4-yard gain into a 38-yard touchdown run. Packers 35-Giants 13. Manning was replaced by the Giants' back up QB with a little more than 4 minutes left in the game. He was injured not long thereafter, but stayed in as long as he could before giving way to the Giants emergency QB with a little more than 2 minutes to go. The Giants did mount a little drive, and threw to the end zone on 4th down. DB Jared Bush broke up what would have been a sure TD, preserving the margin of victory. Game over.
A few reflections
Brett looked great, and it looked like he was having a lot of fun both on the field and on the sideline. He might be gaining confidence in some of the kids around him. And that's a very good thing. In addition to becoming the winningest (is that a word?) QB of all time, he is now only 4 TD passes away from setting the all time TD pass record. And, oh yeah, his teammates gave him the game ball.
The offensive line...still needs dramatic improvement. Better than last week, but still not anywhere close to creating a sufficient running game. Pass protection was better, but on the other hand, the Giants defensive line was patchwork...which also makes the line's inability to generate a rushing game disappointing. Although they did go from 47 yards rushing last week to 83 today...yeah, you're right, it still sucks. And even that figure is misleading because Wynn's TD run accounted for 38 of the 83...so, yeah, sucky.
Speaking of Wynn, his two TD runs -- one for 6 and and the other for 38 -- both demonstrated why the Packers picked him. They may have gotten a diamond in the rough. His "issues" caused him to drop to the 7th round where the Packers decided to take a shot on him. After missing a lot of training camp with injury, he's only now actually getting back into playing form. If he continues to work hard, he could wind up being a key factor in the Pack's backfield this year. He has speed, he can cut with the best of them, and he has power. The jury is still out, but you have to like these little flashes you see.
Special teams continues to make a difference. And Tracey White is really excelling in this area. So is returner Tramon Williams, who had a couple nice returns today, including a 42-yarder.
Charles Woodson missed more than a handful of tackles today. It reminds one of what we saw out of him early in the season last year. He has to do a better job. Pride and experience indicate he will.
The Giants helped the Packers a great deal today. Not only with the turnovers, but with several key penalties that stopped their own drives or kept Packers drives going. That's part of the game too. We'll take it.
The Pack returns to Lambeau next week to take on the Chargers, who smacked Da Bearz around in week #1 and are, as I write this, trailing the New England Pilferers, er, Patriots, 17-0 in the first half. The Packers have shown that they are a team with a good defense, a good special teams unit, and an offense that maybe is coming together. There are no easy games. And given that the Bolts are expected by some to go to and perhaps win the Super Bowl this season, this will be a tough game. But one which maybe will show whether the Packers are for real this season.
But hey, we're 2-0. And Da Bearz aren't. That still feels mighty fine! So does winning 6 in a row going back to last year. Not bad. Not bad at all.
2nd quarter: Giants 10 - Pack 7
The second quarter was a quarter of big plays. The Pack took the lead thanks to a 46-yard pass and catch from Brett to James Jones, followed by a screen play to ex-Giant RB Ryan Grant for 21 yards, followed by a fake pass and delayed hand off to DeShawn Wynn for a 6-yard TD run...with one very nice cut to make it into the end zone. This lead was short lived, however, as the Packers and their four-man rush gave Eli Manning WAY too much time to find receivers. They proceeded to march down the field, and score on a TD pass from Manning to Plaxico Burress.
With under 2 minutes to go, the Giants marched down the field once again. They picked up a first down on a pass to Jeremy Shockey, only to have it wiped out on offsetting penalties: for Shockey spiking the ball after the reception and offsides on Aaron Kampman. Shockey shortly thereafter dropped a third down pass at the 2-yard line, which made the Giants attempt a 48-yard field goal, which they made.
A nice Packers kickoff return was nullified by a holding penalty on Collin Cole. The Pack couldn't get anything else going after that, and punted to end the half.
With about 90 seconds to go, Giants receiver Plaxico Burress was seen walking with a bit of a hitch to the locker room.
Halftime overview: the Packers offensive line still looks out of sync, not offering up enough pass protection nor providing much room for the running game...the defense must do more blitzing in the second half or Manning will pick them apart.
It will be a close one...perhaps decided by a turnover...or a blown coverage or assignment of some kind.
With under 2 minutes to go, the Giants marched down the field once again. They picked up a first down on a pass to Jeremy Shockey, only to have it wiped out on offsetting penalties: for Shockey spiking the ball after the reception and offsides on Aaron Kampman. Shockey shortly thereafter dropped a third down pass at the 2-yard line, which made the Giants attempt a 48-yard field goal, which they made.
A nice Packers kickoff return was nullified by a holding penalty on Collin Cole. The Pack couldn't get anything else going after that, and punted to end the half.
With about 90 seconds to go, Giants receiver Plaxico Burress was seen walking with a bit of a hitch to the locker room.
Halftime overview: the Packers offensive line still looks out of sync, not offering up enough pass protection nor providing much room for the running game...the defense must do more blitzing in the second half or Manning will pick them apart.
It will be a close one...perhaps decided by a turnover...or a blown coverage or assignment of some kind.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
3rd Quarter: Packers 13 - Eagles 13
The Eagles took the lead for the first time in the game with a little over 8 minutes to go in the quarter on a 46-yard field goal. The Eagles had a promising drive going, but were stopped on 3rd-and-5 when Al Harris broke up a potential TD pass in the end zone.
The most exciting play of the quarter was a 3rd-and-10 as Brett was about to be sacked. With defenders hanging off him, Brett made an improvised shovel pass to rookie RB DeShawn Wynn, who broke a few tackles, got some blocks, and scampered for 18 yards to the Eagles 25 and a first down.
Brett is definitely going to be in need of the hot tub after this game -- he's taking a pounding while trying to keep the drives going, improvising and scrambling as best he can.
Following a sack -- after getting the ball down to the Eagles 12 yard line -- the Pack had to settle for a 37-yard field goal to tie the game just before the end of the quarter.
The most exciting play of the quarter was a 3rd-and-10 as Brett was about to be sacked. With defenders hanging off him, Brett made an improvised shovel pass to rookie RB DeShawn Wynn, who broke a few tackles, got some blocks, and scampered for 18 yards to the Eagles 25 and a first down.
Brett is definitely going to be in need of the hot tub after this game -- he's taking a pounding while trying to keep the drives going, improvising and scrambling as best he can.
Following a sack -- after getting the ball down to the Eagles 12 yard line -- the Pack had to settle for a 37-yard field goal to tie the game just before the end of the quarter.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Running backs getting even thinner
No, we don't mean the guys in the backfield have gone on a diet. We mean that what was already a real area of concern for the Packers got even more so over the weekend. Rookie RB Brandon Jackson, seen as perhaps the season starter due to the injury to nominal starter Vernand Morency, may have suffered a concussion in practice during a 2-minute drill. Not good.
Luckily, DeShawn Wynn, another rookie who the Pack is high on but who has also been hurt most of training camp, returned to practice. So, right now, here are the current running backs available to the Packers along with Wynn: Noah Herron and Corey White. Ditto the "not good" from above.
Whether there are any veteran cast-offs which might be of interest to the Packers after final cuts this weekend, who knows? But one would think Packers GM Ted Thompson and Coach Mike McCarthy have to be sweating bullets right now about this situation. Losing Ahman Green to Houston in the offseason was a definite blow. Having a series of injuries to contenders for the starting spot -- especially a plethora of rookies -- didn't help matters any.
Expect Wynn to get a lot of playing time during this Thursday's final preseason game at Tennessee. Whether he can pick up enough game feel and conditioning during the next week or so remains to be seen, as does the recovery of Jackson and Morency. Beyond that...let's not even go there.
Luckily, DeShawn Wynn, another rookie who the Pack is high on but who has also been hurt most of training camp, returned to practice. So, right now, here are the current running backs available to the Packers along with Wynn: Noah Herron and Corey White. Ditto the "not good" from above.
Whether there are any veteran cast-offs which might be of interest to the Packers after final cuts this weekend, who knows? But one would think Packers GM Ted Thompson and Coach Mike McCarthy have to be sweating bullets right now about this situation. Losing Ahman Green to Houston in the offseason was a definite blow. Having a series of injuries to contenders for the starting spot -- especially a plethora of rookies -- didn't help matters any.
Expect Wynn to get a lot of playing time during this Thursday's final preseason game at Tennessee. Whether he can pick up enough game feel and conditioning during the next week or so remains to be seen, as does the recovery of Jackson and Morency. Beyond that...let's not even go there.
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