With the circus in the land of the funky purple people at the return of Ol' #4 -- because he "owed it" to that organization (see my earlier post) -- Packer fans can instead be very thankful that we have a young man named Aaron Rodgers at the QB slot. Just check out this video to see Rodgers get nothing but net on what's said to be a 60-yard toss at the end of practice yesterday designed to work on long-throw accuracy.
Check!
Showing posts with label Favre. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Favre. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
What the Favre? Part 23
Ol' #4 made official today what was reported here and elsewhere yesterday: he's back for another year with the ViQueens. (Yawn.)
The only point of interest in his meeting with reporters -- we can't really call it a "news" conference, can we? -- was that he said, "I owe it to this organization to give it one more shot." Wha-a-a-a-a-a-a??? You "owe it" to the 'Queens? Brett, Grampa, what the heck are you talking about? You played there one year! Hell-o-o-o-o-o-o!
Too bad you apparently never thought that you "owed" it to the Packers' organization -- you know, that one you played for for about 16 years?! -- to say whether or not you were going to play from about the year 2004 onward.
Very interesting perspective you have on what you "owe" and who you "owe" it to. If you had had the same type of integrity a couple years ago that you have apparently found now it's quite likely you'd still be in the green-n-gold and retire proudly instead of being dressed out in that funky purple and retire as a punchline for comics everywhere.
I just thought I owed it to you readers to put things in perspective since Ol' #4, with all due respect, certainly seems to be a bit short in that department recently.
Oh, by the way, Favre says this, his 20th year in the NFL, will definitely be his last. Sure. Whatever.
The only point of interest in his meeting with reporters -- we can't really call it a "news" conference, can we? -- was that he said, "I owe it to this organization to give it one more shot." Wha-a-a-a-a-a-a??? You "owe it" to the 'Queens? Brett, Grampa, what the heck are you talking about? You played there one year! Hell-o-o-o-o-o-o!
Too bad you apparently never thought that you "owed" it to the Packers' organization -- you know, that one you played for for about 16 years?! -- to say whether or not you were going to play from about the year 2004 onward.
Very interesting perspective you have on what you "owe" and who you "owe" it to. If you had had the same type of integrity a couple years ago that you have apparently found now it's quite likely you'd still be in the green-n-gold and retire proudly instead of being dressed out in that funky purple and retire as a punchline for comics everywhere.
I just thought I owed it to you readers to put things in perspective since Ol' #4, with all due respect, certainly seems to be a bit short in that department recently.
Oh, by the way, Favre says this, his 20th year in the NFL, will definitely be his last. Sure. Whatever.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
What the Favre? Part 22
In merely the 22nd installment (22nd?!!!) of our ongoing drama, What the Favre?, breaking news out of Minnesota is that Ol' #4 has returned to Minnesota for his 20th season in the NFL. Literally. His plane landed not long ago.
Former fellow Green Bay Packer, Ryan Longwell, and two other ViQueen shmoes flew to Mississippi yesterday to beg Brett to return...er...ask what his status was.
This is actually a good thing for Packer fans. Really. The Packers' defense now gets a do-over for letting Brett and the 'Queens sweep them last year. One great way to make sure this is in fact Favre's last season will be to send him away with two losses to the Pack. That will stick in his craw as long as he rides his lawn tractor in Hattiesburg...two losses to the Packers in the final season of his career.
I can almost see the tears now.
Go Pack Go!!!
Former fellow Green Bay Packer, Ryan Longwell, and two other ViQueen shmoes flew to Mississippi yesterday to beg Brett to return...er...ask what his status was.
This is actually a good thing for Packer fans. Really. The Packers' defense now gets a do-over for letting Brett and the 'Queens sweep them last year. One great way to make sure this is in fact Favre's last season will be to send him away with two losses to the Pack. That will stick in his craw as long as he rides his lawn tractor in Hattiesburg...two losses to the Packers in the final season of his career.
I can almost see the tears now.
Go Pack Go!!!
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
Rodgers shines in Pro Bowl; Tarkenton rips Favre
So we watched -- well, some people watched -- the NFL Pro Bowl on Sunday. And we saw Packers QB Aaron Rodgers start the game and acquit himself very nicely, throwing for nearly 200 yards and 2 TDs in roughly a quarter of work. Should have been the MVP. I mean, Matt Schaub? C'mon. Apparently the voting criteria was determined by whoever through the first TD pass of the game. The other highlight of the game for Packer fans was no Packer Pro Bowler getting hurt. That's about the best you can hope for.
But perhaps the most exciting part of the weekend had to do with ex-Packer, Ol' #4, and old ViQueens QB, Fran Tarkenton. The latter, who ripped Brett Favre before in the media for his waffling on retirement, etc., took some time out recently to talk about Favre's passing decisions. You know, the kind he makes at critical times in important games? We're familiar with that sort of thing, aren't we, Packer fans?
Tarkenton called Favre's interception in the closing seconds of regulation a "stupid play" that led to Minnesota's loss. Tarkenton spoke to a Philadelphia radio station and said, "They were the better team. Their offense turned the ball over five times, the Viking offense. But still if he didn't make that stupid play at the end of the game they would have won the game." But wait! There's more: "I have never seen any quarterback much less, well he is going to be a Hall of Fame quarterback, make plays like that at a critical time. He has done the same thing in the Giants game (a Packers loss in the 2007 NFC title game). He plays at home, has the better team and plays against Eli (Manning). He was a young kid right? And he throws the pick ... and then he does what he did the other night which was just shameful because great quarterbacks, and he is a great quarterback, they don't do that. You don't see Peyton Manning do that."
Fran: tell us how you really feel, will ya? You can read more here.
While Favre takes his time deciding (again), one "fan" decides
As fans and pundits alike debate whether Favre will return for another year with the ViQueens (my guess is yes), The Onion reports that at least one fan has made an important decision in his life. You can check out The Onion's report right here (and remember...this is only a spoof...but it's a good one):
Packers Fan Announces He Will Return To Drinking For Another Season
But perhaps the most exciting part of the weekend had to do with ex-Packer, Ol' #4, and old ViQueens QB, Fran Tarkenton. The latter, who ripped Brett Favre before in the media for his waffling on retirement, etc., took some time out recently to talk about Favre's passing decisions. You know, the kind he makes at critical times in important games? We're familiar with that sort of thing, aren't we, Packer fans?
Tarkenton called Favre's interception in the closing seconds of regulation a "stupid play" that led to Minnesota's loss. Tarkenton spoke to a Philadelphia radio station and said, "They were the better team. Their offense turned the ball over five times, the Viking offense. But still if he didn't make that stupid play at the end of the game they would have won the game." But wait! There's more: "I have never seen any quarterback much less, well he is going to be a Hall of Fame quarterback, make plays like that at a critical time. He has done the same thing in the Giants game (a Packers loss in the 2007 NFC title game). He plays at home, has the better team and plays against Eli (Manning). He was a young kid right? And he throws the pick ... and then he does what he did the other night which was just shameful because great quarterbacks, and he is a great quarterback, they don't do that. You don't see Peyton Manning do that."
Fran: tell us how you really feel, will ya? You can read more here.
While Favre takes his time deciding (again), one "fan" decides
As fans and pundits alike debate whether Favre will return for another year with the ViQueens (my guess is yes), The Onion reports that at least one fan has made an important decision in his life. You can check out The Onion's report right here (and remember...this is only a spoof...but it's a good one):
Packers Fan Announces He Will Return To Drinking For Another Season
Sunday, January 03, 2010
Packers - Cardinals Preview
It's difficult to preview a game such as this when it may or may not mean a lot to one team and really doesn't mean all that much to the other.
By kickoff time, though, the Cardinals will know whether they are playing for something or not. That all depends upon whether or not the Giants are able to upset the ViQueens in the Humpty Dump in the early game today. If so, the Cards can be playing for a better seeding. If not, well, in all likelihood these two teams will be seeing each other again next weekend in Arizona in the first round of the playoffs.
If the latter is the scenario that plays out, the game might be more like an exhibition game, with starters playing a while to keep sharp but not wanting to play too long to get exposed to possible injury. That might be the scenario the Packers roll with today regardless, despite all the words from the coaches and the players that they will be playing to win. Although that begs the question: win which game...today's or next week's?
If the the 'Queens lose and the Cards have something to play for, they could win by a good margin as it's likely the Pack will not want to put their key starters at risk very long today. If you see them go a full 3 quarters that would be about the most to be expected. If both the Pack and Cards aren't playing for anything, it will be a vanilla game and it could go either way.
For all these reasons, I just call it as a "pick 'em" game today. The Packers' target is clearly the next game, not this one. Still, getting backup players some game time today would be a big help going forward.
Playoff Scenarios
The Packers will play Arizona if:
the Packers win
or the Packers lose and the Cowboys win
The Packers will play Dallas if:
the Packers lose, the Vikings lose and the Cowboys win
The Packers will play Minnesota if:
the Packers lose, the Vikings lose and the Cowboys lose
More records today?
While there isn't much to play for in terms of playoff seeding, yes, getting to 11-5 would be nice. But there are also some individual and team records that could be set today...depending.
WR Donald Driver needs 4 yards to reach 1,000 yards receiving for the season, which would extend his own franchise record to a seventh overall season with 1,000 receiving yards. And if Driver makes just one catch today, he will have caught at least one pass in 126 consecutive games. Go Donald Go!!!
Also, when that happens, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, NFL history will be made. It would be the first offensive unit in league history to produce a 4,000-yard passer (Aaron Rodgers), a 1,200-yard rusher (Ryan Grant) and two 1,000-yard receivers (Driver and Greg Jennings) in back-to-back seasons.
Now really, how cool is that?
As Packer fans know, QB Aaron Rodgers last week became the first passer in NFL history to throw for more than 4,000 yards in his first two seasons as a starter. Rogers needs 260 yards against Arizona today to break the single-season franchise mark. Probably not likely given how long Rodgers might play. But you never know. Still, building the kind of stats Rodgers has over his first two seasons as a starter makes it a lot easier to forget Ol' #4...what was his name again...???
RB Ryan Grant became the third running back in team history to post back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons. He already has a career-high 10 rushing touchdowns and is two yards short of a career yardage mark. Grant not only doesn't get the respect he deserves in the league but he also is underappreciated by most Packer fans. He's not flashy, but as we were reminded last week, give the man a hole to run through and he can go the distance.
WR Greg Jennings went over the 1,000-yard mark in receiving against the Seahawks last weekend, becoming just the fifth player in Packers' history to do so in consecutive seasons.
By kickoff time, though, the Cardinals will know whether they are playing for something or not. That all depends upon whether or not the Giants are able to upset the ViQueens in the Humpty Dump in the early game today. If so, the Cards can be playing for a better seeding. If not, well, in all likelihood these two teams will be seeing each other again next weekend in Arizona in the first round of the playoffs.
If the latter is the scenario that plays out, the game might be more like an exhibition game, with starters playing a while to keep sharp but not wanting to play too long to get exposed to possible injury. That might be the scenario the Packers roll with today regardless, despite all the words from the coaches and the players that they will be playing to win. Although that begs the question: win which game...today's or next week's?
If the the 'Queens lose and the Cards have something to play for, they could win by a good margin as it's likely the Pack will not want to put their key starters at risk very long today. If you see them go a full 3 quarters that would be about the most to be expected. If both the Pack and Cards aren't playing for anything, it will be a vanilla game and it could go either way.
For all these reasons, I just call it as a "pick 'em" game today. The Packers' target is clearly the next game, not this one. Still, getting backup players some game time today would be a big help going forward.
Playoff Scenarios
The Packers will play Arizona if:
the Packers win
or the Packers lose and the Cowboys win
The Packers will play Dallas if:
the Packers lose, the Vikings lose and the Cowboys win
The Packers will play Minnesota if:
the Packers lose, the Vikings lose and the Cowboys lose
More records today?
While there isn't much to play for in terms of playoff seeding, yes, getting to 11-5 would be nice. But there are also some individual and team records that could be set today...depending.
WR Donald Driver needs 4 yards to reach 1,000 yards receiving for the season, which would extend his own franchise record to a seventh overall season with 1,000 receiving yards. And if Driver makes just one catch today, he will have caught at least one pass in 126 consecutive games. Go Donald Go!!!
Also, when that happens, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, NFL history will be made. It would be the first offensive unit in league history to produce a 4,000-yard passer (Aaron Rodgers), a 1,200-yard rusher (Ryan Grant) and two 1,000-yard receivers (Driver and Greg Jennings) in back-to-back seasons.
Now really, how cool is that?
As Packer fans know, QB Aaron Rodgers last week became the first passer in NFL history to throw for more than 4,000 yards in his first two seasons as a starter. Rogers needs 260 yards against Arizona today to break the single-season franchise mark. Probably not likely given how long Rodgers might play. But you never know. Still, building the kind of stats Rodgers has over his first two seasons as a starter makes it a lot easier to forget Ol' #4...what was his name again...???
RB Ryan Grant became the third running back in team history to post back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons. He already has a career-high 10 rushing touchdowns and is two yards short of a career yardage mark. Grant not only doesn't get the respect he deserves in the league but he also is underappreciated by most Packer fans. He's not flashy, but as we were reminded last week, give the man a hole to run through and he can go the distance.
WR Greg Jennings went over the 1,000-yard mark in receiving against the Seahawks last weekend, becoming just the fifth player in Packers' history to do so in consecutive seasons.
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Packers to play next Saturday?
According to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, it seems as if the Packers coaching staff is preparing for the prospects of playing their wildcard playoff game next Saturday rather than Sunday. Head coach Mike McCarthy is quoted as saying, "Yes, I think we have a high probability of playing on Saturday."
As the article notes, "One NFC and one AFC game will be played next Saturday, and one NFC and one AFC game will be played next Sunday. Kickoff times are 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Jan. 9, noon and 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 10.
"As best the Packers can determine, they probably will be playing the late game next Saturday if not next Sunday. Dates and times will be announced Sunday night."
As this same article also notes, going into play tomorrow the Packers have 8 playoff scenarios, 6 of which have them playing the Cardinals. The Pack has one scenario under which they would play the Cowboys and one under which they would play the ViQueens. So, as much as many fans would love to see the Packers play Ol' #4 one more time in the Humpty Dump, the odds don't favor it.
You can read more on the playoffs and related bits and pieces here.
How much do we need Tauscher? Let us count the ways.
There's another great article in the same issue of the Journal-Sentinel about beloved veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher. Compares Tauscher to former tackle Bruce Wilkerson who was signed late in the Packers' season which saw them go on to win the 1996 Super Bowl. The story is about how Wilkerson, then also aged 32 (as is Tauscher) and near the end of his career, went down in Packers' lore because of his role in helping the team get to and win the big one. Certainly, Tauscher's legacy is already well established as his entire career has been spent with the Pack. He's a lock for the Packers Hall of Fame. But closing out one's career with a Super Bowl win? Sweet! And why not?
Anyway, another great article by Bob McGinn of the Journal-Sentinel. Check it out here.
Check back tomorrow for the preview of the Packers vs. Cardinals game.
As the article notes, "One NFC and one AFC game will be played next Saturday, and one NFC and one AFC game will be played next Sunday. Kickoff times are 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Jan. 9, noon and 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 10.
"As best the Packers can determine, they probably will be playing the late game next Saturday if not next Sunday. Dates and times will be announced Sunday night."
As this same article also notes, going into play tomorrow the Packers have 8 playoff scenarios, 6 of which have them playing the Cardinals. The Pack has one scenario under which they would play the Cowboys and one under which they would play the ViQueens. So, as much as many fans would love to see the Packers play Ol' #4 one more time in the Humpty Dump, the odds don't favor it.
You can read more on the playoffs and related bits and pieces here.
How much do we need Tauscher? Let us count the ways.
There's another great article in the same issue of the Journal-Sentinel about beloved veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher. Compares Tauscher to former tackle Bruce Wilkerson who was signed late in the Packers' season which saw them go on to win the 1996 Super Bowl. The story is about how Wilkerson, then also aged 32 (as is Tauscher) and near the end of his career, went down in Packers' lore because of his role in helping the team get to and win the big one. Certainly, Tauscher's legacy is already well established as his entire career has been spent with the Pack. He's a lock for the Packers Hall of Fame. But closing out one's career with a Super Bowl win? Sweet! And why not?
Anyway, another great article by Bob McGinn of the Journal-Sentinel. Check it out here.
Check back tomorrow for the preview of the Packers vs. Cardinals game.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Aren't the playoffs fun? And we aren't even there yet!
The playoffs are fun when you are in them. And, for the first time in the Aaron Rodgers era, the Packers are. With yesterday's win over the Seahawks and the Giants embarrassing loss to the Panthers, the Pack secured one of the two NFC wildcard spots.
Still to be determined, with one week left in the regular season, is who the Packers will play. There are a number of scenarios, but it seems as if most of them point to the Pack meeting the Cardinals -- their opponent this coming Sunday -- in the first round. Playing a team two weeks back to back has its advantages and disadvantages. Neither team is obviously going to want to show too much. And with neither team having much to play for, how much will each of the coaches expose their starters to possible injury? You have to figure that, yes, they'd each like to win the final regular season game but not at the possible loss of key players. The playoff spot is secure and, for the Packers, it won't really matter much (well, kinda sorta) whether they win or lose the final game except for the final standings. So, the goal now becomes setting things up to win that wildcard game. More about that in days to come.
For now, you might find it entertaining to make use of the Yahoo Sports NFL Playoff Scenario Generator to see for yourself who the Pack could likely play in that first round. As noted earlier, most things point to the Cardinals. But, if Da Bearz were somehow to upset the ViQueens this evening in Chicago, it certainly can affect the scenarios.
So, just enjoy the fact that the Packers are back in the playoffs. They are seemingly peaking at the right time. They've got a Pro Bowl level quarterback at the helm and his name isn't Favre, but Aaron Rodgers. The defense -- despite having the secondary get lit up in Pittsburgh a week ago -- is playing at a high level. And perhaps Ryan Grant's late season surge is once again on display, with able back up coming from veterans Ahman Green and Brandon Jackson. And as for the receiving corps -- wideouts and tight ends -- as they say out East, fuggetaboutit.
Go Pack Go!!!
Win a trip for 4 to Packers playoff game!
From Packers eNews:
Fans Can Win Trip For Four To Packers Playoff Game On Packers.com
Online Sign-up For Package Runs From Dec. 28 Through Jan. 2
Playoff fever for Packers fans has arrived, and fans have the opportunity to build their anticipation for the postseason with a chance to win a trip for four to the Packers' Wild Card playoff game the weekend of Jan. 9-10 through a contest on Packers.com.
Beginning today and running through Jan. 2, 2010, fans can sign up for the chance to win the playoff package, which includes four tickets to the game, roundtrip airfare for four from anywhere in the continental United States (excluding Alaska and Hawaii), and two hotel rooms for two nights.
The winner will be chosen Jan. 3, and all arrangements will be made Jan. 4 once the game date and site are confirmed. A Jan. 9 game will see the winner and guests depart Jan. 8 and return Jan. 10. A Jan. 10 game will see a Jan. 9 departure and Jan. 11 return.
Registration for the contest and full details are available online here.
Potential winners must comply with the contest's official rules. The Packers will select the winner in a random drawing from all eligible entries received during the promotion period. The potential winners will be notified by telephone or e-mail. - Enter To Win!
Still to be determined, with one week left in the regular season, is who the Packers will play. There are a number of scenarios, but it seems as if most of them point to the Pack meeting the Cardinals -- their opponent this coming Sunday -- in the first round. Playing a team two weeks back to back has its advantages and disadvantages. Neither team is obviously going to want to show too much. And with neither team having much to play for, how much will each of the coaches expose their starters to possible injury? You have to figure that, yes, they'd each like to win the final regular season game but not at the possible loss of key players. The playoff spot is secure and, for the Packers, it won't really matter much (well, kinda sorta) whether they win or lose the final game except for the final standings. So, the goal now becomes setting things up to win that wildcard game. More about that in days to come.
For now, you might find it entertaining to make use of the Yahoo Sports NFL Playoff Scenario Generator to see for yourself who the Pack could likely play in that first round. As noted earlier, most things point to the Cardinals. But, if Da Bearz were somehow to upset the ViQueens this evening in Chicago, it certainly can affect the scenarios.
So, just enjoy the fact that the Packers are back in the playoffs. They are seemingly peaking at the right time. They've got a Pro Bowl level quarterback at the helm and his name isn't Favre, but Aaron Rodgers. The defense -- despite having the secondary get lit up in Pittsburgh a week ago -- is playing at a high level. And perhaps Ryan Grant's late season surge is once again on display, with able back up coming from veterans Ahman Green and Brandon Jackson. And as for the receiving corps -- wideouts and tight ends -- as they say out East, fuggetaboutit.
Go Pack Go!!!
Win a trip for 4 to Packers playoff game!
From Packers eNews:
Fans Can Win Trip For Four To Packers Playoff Game On Packers.com
Online Sign-up For Package Runs From Dec. 28 Through Jan. 2
Playoff fever for Packers fans has arrived, and fans have the opportunity to build their anticipation for the postseason with a chance to win a trip for four to the Packers' Wild Card playoff game the weekend of Jan. 9-10 through a contest on Packers.com.
Beginning today and running through Jan. 2, 2010, fans can sign up for the chance to win the playoff package, which includes four tickets to the game, roundtrip airfare for four from anywhere in the continental United States (excluding Alaska and Hawaii), and two hotel rooms for two nights.
The winner will be chosen Jan. 3, and all arrangements will be made Jan. 4 once the game date and site are confirmed. A Jan. 9 game will see the winner and guests depart Jan. 8 and return Jan. 10. A Jan. 10 game will see a Jan. 9 departure and Jan. 11 return.
Registration for the contest and full details are available online here.
Potential winners must comply with the contest's official rules. The Packers will select the winner in a random drawing from all eligible entries received during the promotion period. The potential winners will be notified by telephone or e-mail. - Enter To Win!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
What the Favre? Part 8
As the Favre-escapades continue, a Hall of Fame quarterback with Minnesota connections described Ol' #4's antics as "despicable." That would be the great Fran Tarkenton tossing about such verbiage. He used that word to describe Brett's departure from the Pack, his signing with the Jets and now - sigh -- his possible signing with the ViQueens.
Tarkenton made his comments in an interview yesterday with Atlanta radio station 790 The Zone. It is only today getting widely reported as the sweeping nature of Tarkenton's condemnation of Brett's behavior spreads. Here's a choice bit that Packer fans can really agree with: "Here's an organization (the Packers) that was loyal to him for 17, 18 years, provided stability of organization, provided players. It just wasn't about Brett Favre. In this day and time, we have glorified the Brett Favres of the world so much, they think it's about them."
Tarkenton also said Brett was "a great, flamboyant quarterback, but he has made more stupid plays than any great quarterback that I've ever seen." And as for how Tarkenton would feel about Brett joining his old team, the ViQueens? He said that a part of him hopes Brett does wind up playing for the ViQueens "so he can fail." Ouch.
You can find lots of reports out there today about Fran the Man's take on Favre. Here's one for you, courtesy of Fox Sports.
People are turning on you, Brett. Diehard Packers fans have bailed on you, Jets fans have a bad taste in their mouths now too, ViQueens fans say they don't want you after all this drama...and now you have Hall of Fame QBs saying what you're doing is "despicable."
Wow. Who would have thunk it? Truly sad. The legacy is tarnished big time.
You could have gone out on top with a lot of class, Brett. That would have been the first time you retired. Everybody loved you. Now, people are starting to loathe you instead. Wow.
Tarkenton made his comments in an interview yesterday with Atlanta radio station 790 The Zone. It is only today getting widely reported as the sweeping nature of Tarkenton's condemnation of Brett's behavior spreads. Here's a choice bit that Packer fans can really agree with: "Here's an organization (the Packers) that was loyal to him for 17, 18 years, provided stability of organization, provided players. It just wasn't about Brett Favre. In this day and time, we have glorified the Brett Favres of the world so much, they think it's about them."
Tarkenton also said Brett was "a great, flamboyant quarterback, but he has made more stupid plays than any great quarterback that I've ever seen." And as for how Tarkenton would feel about Brett joining his old team, the ViQueens? He said that a part of him hopes Brett does wind up playing for the ViQueens "so he can fail." Ouch.
You can find lots of reports out there today about Fran the Man's take on Favre. Here's one for you, courtesy of Fox Sports.
People are turning on you, Brett. Diehard Packers fans have bailed on you, Jets fans have a bad taste in their mouths now too, ViQueens fans say they don't want you after all this drama...and now you have Hall of Fame QBs saying what you're doing is "despicable."
Wow. Who would have thunk it? Truly sad. The legacy is tarnished big time.
You could have gone out on top with a lot of class, Brett. That would have been the first time you retired. Everybody loved you. Now, people are starting to loathe you instead. Wow.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
What the Favre? Part 7
First reports emerged over the last day or two that even the Favre-lustful ViQueens are growing weary of waiting for Ol' #4 to make up his mind about playing or not playing. Word was they wanted an answer by the end of the week.
Apparently, the ViQueens fans have already made up their minds: they don't want Favre. According to a poll of 500 'Queens fans by Rasmussen Reports, only 29 percent of those queried want the team to sign Favre; 42 percent said it was a bad idea to sign Brett; and 30 percent -- modeling Brett's behavior -- aren't sure whether the ViQueens should sign him or not. In addition, 44 percent said they would be less likely to support the use of their hard-earned tax dollars to build a new stadium if the team signs Favre.
You can read the full report of the survey result here.
It just gets weirder and weirder, doesn't it?
Even uber-Favre-fan, ESPN's Pardon the Interruption co-host Tony Kornheiser, referred to Brett as "Hamlet" today...without even mentioning him by name, the reference was clear who he was talking about. When even your most loyal fans get fed up...Brett, Brett, Brett...we tried to tell you...
Apparently, the ViQueens fans have already made up their minds: they don't want Favre. According to a poll of 500 'Queens fans by Rasmussen Reports, only 29 percent of those queried want the team to sign Favre; 42 percent said it was a bad idea to sign Brett; and 30 percent -- modeling Brett's behavior -- aren't sure whether the ViQueens should sign him or not. In addition, 44 percent said they would be less likely to support the use of their hard-earned tax dollars to build a new stadium if the team signs Favre.
You can read the full report of the survey result here.
It just gets weirder and weirder, doesn't it?
Even uber-Favre-fan, ESPN's Pardon the Interruption co-host Tony Kornheiser, referred to Brett as "Hamlet" today...without even mentioning him by name, the reference was clear who he was talking about. When even your most loyal fans get fed up...Brett, Brett, Brett...we tried to tell you...
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
What the Favre? Part 6
What? What is this? Conflicting reports about what Brett Favre is doing? No-o-o-o-o-o. Can't be.
Yes, in the ongoing soap opera "As the Brett Favre World Turns," we have Ed Werder from ESPN continuing to assert -- contrary to what the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported yesterday -- that Ol' #4 is not meeting with any surgeon today. Nor is he going to have surgery. Instead, according to Werder's source, Favre is going to have cortisone injections and do exercises to fix his torn biceps tendon. As reported last week, that fix is intended to actually finish the tear in the tendon. If that works, and Brett feels he can perform, he'd then do the nasty with the ViQueens (I apologize for whatever imagery that may raise for you).
The ESPN report also says, "Either way (surgery or not), Favre is losing patience, causing the source to say the shoulder problem must be overcome soon or Favre is likely to abandon his effort to play a 19th NFL season."
So, will he or won't he? Flip a coin. And then flip it again tomorrow. And the next day. And on and on and on and...Oy.
You can check it all out for yourself here.
Yes, in the ongoing soap opera "As the Brett Favre World Turns," we have Ed Werder from ESPN continuing to assert -- contrary to what the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported yesterday -- that Ol' #4 is not meeting with any surgeon today. Nor is he going to have surgery. Instead, according to Werder's source, Favre is going to have cortisone injections and do exercises to fix his torn biceps tendon. As reported last week, that fix is intended to actually finish the tear in the tendon. If that works, and Brett feels he can perform, he'd then do the nasty with the ViQueens (I apologize for whatever imagery that may raise for you).
The ESPN report also says, "Either way (surgery or not), Favre is losing patience, causing the source to say the shoulder problem must be overcome soon or Favre is likely to abandon his effort to play a 19th NFL season."
So, will he or won't he? Flip a coin. And then flip it again tomorrow. And the next day. And on and on and on and...Oy.
You can check it all out for yourself here.
Monday, May 18, 2009
What the Favre? Part 5
Proof positive that spite and revenge outweigh common sense in the human psyche. Today, the St. Paul Pioneer Press is reporting that Ol' #4 will meet tomorrow with noted orthopedist James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala., regarding the options for repairing the torn biceps tendon in his throwing arm and will likely have surgery later this week. Rehab time would likely be 6-8 weeks. Then Brett would reportedly sign with the ViQueens and be ready to join their summer training camp...which is apparently exactly what he intends to do.
Are you listening, members of the Packers defense? Time to circle Monday night, October 5, and Sunday November 1 on the schedule. That's when you can reacquaint Ol' #4 with the Green Bay Packers. He wants to make a point. Well, gents, it will be up to you to really make the point. To Mr. Favre, that is. When he retired from the Packers (retirement first time around, that is), he said in his press conference that he gave it his all and there's nothing left to give. Hmmm. Please, defense, be inspired by those words. When you meet, and see Ol' #4 in that funky purple, give it all you have as you defeat the 'Queens...and make him wonder why in heaven's name he ever thought it was a good idea to go through all this just to get back at Ted Thompson.
Such a sad end to a great career. Never thought you'd become a caricature, Brett. But that's where it's at.
If you want to read the Pioneer Press story, just go here.
Are you listening, members of the Packers defense? Time to circle Monday night, October 5, and Sunday November 1 on the schedule. That's when you can reacquaint Ol' #4 with the Green Bay Packers. He wants to make a point. Well, gents, it will be up to you to really make the point. To Mr. Favre, that is. When he retired from the Packers (retirement first time around, that is), he said in his press conference that he gave it his all and there's nothing left to give. Hmmm. Please, defense, be inspired by those words. When you meet, and see Ol' #4 in that funky purple, give it all you have as you defeat the 'Queens...and make him wonder why in heaven's name he ever thought it was a good idea to go through all this just to get back at Ted Thompson.
Such a sad end to a great career. Never thought you'd become a caricature, Brett. But that's where it's at.
If you want to read the Pioneer Press story, just go here.
Friday, May 08, 2009
What the Favre? Part 3
You know, I'm starting to think of Ol' #4 as the Black Knight in Monty Python's Holy Grail movie. You know, he had his legs, arms, etc....how shall we say...unavailable to him and he kept trying to fight. "C'mon ya pansy!" was his taunt. Clearly didn't know when to quit.
Jeremy Schapp of ESPN is now reporting that Brett has sent X-rays of his throwing shoulder to the ViQueens for evaluation. If Brett doesn't require surgery, the report says Favre would play for the 'Queens because of...yawn...spite. Getting back at Packers GM Ted Thompson is what is still fueling his fire.
What was the classic movie? Cape Fear? Especially the remake where Robert De Niro keeps coming back and coming back and coming back. He extracted a bit of revenge several times...but didn't it end rather badly for him?
Bad karma coming for you, Brett, if you make this move. What would karma exact for your spitefulness? Wouldn't it be something if instead of lighting up the Pack twice, as you no doubt are dreaming while both asleep and awake, that you got knocked out once and for all by your old team? That would be very much karma squaring things away.
A sad way to go out, even if it does play out the way you imagine. In your blind fury to get back at Thompson, you are flushing your goodwill with Packers fans right down the crapper.
There was a very interesting call-in segment the other evening on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee. Sports guy, Bill Michaels, was asking listeners not only what they felt about this whole Brett-ViQueens story, but also whether they were more on Brett's side last year when things went sour. While a few callers were still in Brett's corner, what was amazing were the number of callers who said they were on Brett's side last year. Now, they have turned on him. One caller even suggested that if Ol' #4 were to come back to Lambeau in that funky 'Queen purple, instead of boos -- which would probably be evenly split with cheers -- the entire stadium should just go silent. Like the ultimate shunning. A variation on the theme would be for all fans to stand as he was introduced and turn their backs to the field. Can you imagine? Again, it would be an appropriate tit-for-tat response, actually: "Brett, you're sticking it to Packer fans, not just Ted Thompson...now, we're sticking it to you in kind." This writer has been as big a fan of Brett over the years as anyone. But enough is enough. And there is no player that is ever bigger than the franchise, especially when that franchise is the Green Bay Packers.
So sad. But like the character in Cape Fear, revenge and self-destruction go hand in hand. Brett is really losing it...in more ways than one.
There's a great commentary about the Favre situation from ESPN writer Len Pasquarelli. You can read it here.
Jim Rome also has his take on the situation. In a twisted way, he's telling Brett to come back...kind of like encouraging the guy on the roof to jump. You gotta check it out here.
Jeremy Schapp of ESPN is now reporting that Brett has sent X-rays of his throwing shoulder to the ViQueens for evaluation. If Brett doesn't require surgery, the report says Favre would play for the 'Queens because of...yawn...spite. Getting back at Packers GM Ted Thompson is what is still fueling his fire.
What was the classic movie? Cape Fear? Especially the remake where Robert De Niro keeps coming back and coming back and coming back. He extracted a bit of revenge several times...but didn't it end rather badly for him?
Bad karma coming for you, Brett, if you make this move. What would karma exact for your spitefulness? Wouldn't it be something if instead of lighting up the Pack twice, as you no doubt are dreaming while both asleep and awake, that you got knocked out once and for all by your old team? That would be very much karma squaring things away.
A sad way to go out, even if it does play out the way you imagine. In your blind fury to get back at Thompson, you are flushing your goodwill with Packers fans right down the crapper.
There was a very interesting call-in segment the other evening on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee. Sports guy, Bill Michaels, was asking listeners not only what they felt about this whole Brett-ViQueens story, but also whether they were more on Brett's side last year when things went sour. While a few callers were still in Brett's corner, what was amazing were the number of callers who said they were on Brett's side last year. Now, they have turned on him. One caller even suggested that if Ol' #4 were to come back to Lambeau in that funky 'Queen purple, instead of boos -- which would probably be evenly split with cheers -- the entire stadium should just go silent. Like the ultimate shunning. A variation on the theme would be for all fans to stand as he was introduced and turn their backs to the field. Can you imagine? Again, it would be an appropriate tit-for-tat response, actually: "Brett, you're sticking it to Packer fans, not just Ted Thompson...now, we're sticking it to you in kind." This writer has been as big a fan of Brett over the years as anyone. But enough is enough. And there is no player that is ever bigger than the franchise, especially when that franchise is the Green Bay Packers.
So sad. But like the character in Cape Fear, revenge and self-destruction go hand in hand. Brett is really losing it...in more ways than one.
There's a great commentary about the Favre situation from ESPN writer Len Pasquarelli. You can read it here.
Jim Rome also has his take on the situation. In a twisted way, he's telling Brett to come back...kind of like encouraging the guy on the roof to jump. You gotta check it out here.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
What the Favre? Part 2
ESPN is now reporting that Yahoo Sports has reported (got that?) that Ol' #4 told the ViQueens in a phone call that he will not sign with them and will stay retired. Further, that he will hold a news conference soon to explain his decision.
The report further states that the 'Queens wanted Brett to have surgery on his torn bicep as well as attend all OTAs, minicamps, etc. At about age 40, Brett has apparently decided enough is enough.
But...we've heard this all before. A couple times actually. So, until the season begins..and ends...with no Brett sighting on anything other than his lawn tractor in Hattiesburg...well, paraphrasing The Who, we won't get Favred again!
Does it even have to be said here: stay tuned.
You can read the Yahoo Sports story here.
The report further states that the 'Queens wanted Brett to have surgery on his torn bicep as well as attend all OTAs, minicamps, etc. At about age 40, Brett has apparently decided enough is enough.
But...we've heard this all before. A couple times actually. So, until the season begins..and ends...with no Brett sighting on anything other than his lawn tractor in Hattiesburg...well, paraphrasing The Who, we won't get Favred again!
Does it even have to be said here: stay tuned.
You can read the Yahoo Sports story here.
What the Favre???
Just as the confirmation process for a particular Supreme Court nominee became known as being "Borked", or a pro golfer's major collapse after a wide lead in the last round of a major became known as "pulling a Norman" (rolls off the tongue easier than "pulling a Van de Velde"), I think we are witnessing the birth of yet another generic negative reference: being Favred. Of course, there are lots of variants, along the lines of the headline. To express major confusion, especially if we are in a family situation or are just trying to clean up our language, we can now say, "What the Favre?" and people will immediately understand your sense of confusion and exasperation.
In this instance, our vocabulary is being enhanced courtesy of...OK, does anyone anywhere actually know what's going on with this story? Doesn't seem like it.
Yesterday, reports were all over the place that ViQueens coach Brad Childress travelled to Mississippi to meet with Ol' #4 about playing in the funky purple. But, then we read that Brett's agent, Bus Cook, is quoted as saying not only does he not know any of this information but that when he contacted Brett he was assured that there was nothing to any of this. Hmmm. See here for more on that angle to all this.
If you really want a fun take on this, be sure to check out this column in the Sporting News by Dennis Dillon.
And then there's this report also in the Sporting News, citing Minneapolis media, that has Childress at ViQueens headquarters today.
All I can say is...What the Favre is goin' on???
In this instance, our vocabulary is being enhanced courtesy of...OK, does anyone anywhere actually know what's going on with this story? Doesn't seem like it.
Yesterday, reports were all over the place that ViQueens coach Brad Childress travelled to Mississippi to meet with Ol' #4 about playing in the funky purple. But, then we read that Brett's agent, Bus Cook, is quoted as saying not only does he not know any of this information but that when he contacted Brett he was assured that there was nothing to any of this. Hmmm. See here for more on that angle to all this.
If you really want a fun take on this, be sure to check out this column in the Sporting News by Dennis Dillon.
And then there's this report also in the Sporting News, citing Minneapolis media, that has Childress at ViQueens headquarters today.
All I can say is...What the Favre is goin' on???
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Ol' #4 to meet with ViQueens
ESPN's Ed Werder is reporting that Brett Favre and ViQueens head coach Brad Childress will meet later this week at an undisclosed location. (Sigh)
But the really interesting part of this story -- although less interesting as each supposed retirement comes and goes -- albeit not a surprising one is Brett's reason for wanting to talk with the ViQueens. It's one we Packer fans know all too well: revenge.
In a story reported on Yahoo Sports, "According to a New York Daily News column by Gary Myers, a(nother) Favre return to the NFL would be motivated by his desire to get revenge on the Packers, the team that kicked him to the curb last spring in favor of Aaron Rodgers.
"Writes Myers: One NFL source insists Favre can't peacefully retire until he finds a way to get revenge on the Packers. He wants back into the NFC North so he can face the Packers twice. The Bears traded for Jay Cutler and the Lions drafted Matthew Stafford. Hello, Minnesota. 'Favre can't stand Green Bay,' the source said. 'He wants to play Green Bay and say, "I told you so." His bitterness is creating this. I think he's calling Minnesota. I think Minnesota is talking about this as we speak. You haven't heard the end of Favre. No way. He is bionic. As long as somebody will let him in, he will play.'"
As the author of the Yahoo article opines, "As if Brett Favre doesn't try to force the ball to his receivers enough, can you imagine if he was playing a game solely for spite? He'd probably be throwing into quintuple-coverage every time he dropped back to pass. There's a legitimate chance he could throw, like, 19 interceptions in the two games Minnesota would play against Green Bay. That would almost make up for having to hear incessantly about Favre for the next few months."
Yesterday, former QB and Favre buddy Trent Dilfer said on ESPN's NFL Live program that he and Brett had exchanged text messages and Brett had given Dilfer a resounding "NO" when the subject of ending his retirement and playing for the ViQueens came up. There was absolutely nothing to the story, said Dilfer. A day later, this. But should we be surprised? As Michael Wilbon said on ESPN's Pardon the Interruption today, "I don't believe anything this guy (Favre) says about retirement."
As long as Brett hangs onto his spite for Ted Thompson and can stand upright he's going to think he can extract his revenge. I never thought I'd say it, but I almost relish the thought now of new kids B.J. Raji and Clay Matthews meeting Brett...at the same time...and reacquainting him in a personal way with the Frozen Tundra. I'd rather have Brett walk out onto that hallowed ground for his number retirement ceremony and the adulation he rightly deserves. But if he wants to be a putz...my advice to the Packers D: plant him!
Maybe that will finally knock the spite out of him and some sense into him.
You can read the Yahoo Sports story here.
But the really interesting part of this story -- although less interesting as each supposed retirement comes and goes -- albeit not a surprising one is Brett's reason for wanting to talk with the ViQueens. It's one we Packer fans know all too well: revenge.
In a story reported on Yahoo Sports, "According to a New York Daily News column by Gary Myers, a(nother) Favre return to the NFL would be motivated by his desire to get revenge on the Packers, the team that kicked him to the curb last spring in favor of Aaron Rodgers.
"Writes Myers: One NFL source insists Favre can't peacefully retire until he finds a way to get revenge on the Packers. He wants back into the NFC North so he can face the Packers twice. The Bears traded for Jay Cutler and the Lions drafted Matthew Stafford. Hello, Minnesota. 'Favre can't stand Green Bay,' the source said. 'He wants to play Green Bay and say, "I told you so." His bitterness is creating this. I think he's calling Minnesota. I think Minnesota is talking about this as we speak. You haven't heard the end of Favre. No way. He is bionic. As long as somebody will let him in, he will play.'"
As the author of the Yahoo article opines, "As if Brett Favre doesn't try to force the ball to his receivers enough, can you imagine if he was playing a game solely for spite? He'd probably be throwing into quintuple-coverage every time he dropped back to pass. There's a legitimate chance he could throw, like, 19 interceptions in the two games Minnesota would play against Green Bay. That would almost make up for having to hear incessantly about Favre for the next few months."
Yesterday, former QB and Favre buddy Trent Dilfer said on ESPN's NFL Live program that he and Brett had exchanged text messages and Brett had given Dilfer a resounding "NO" when the subject of ending his retirement and playing for the ViQueens came up. There was absolutely nothing to the story, said Dilfer. A day later, this. But should we be surprised? As Michael Wilbon said on ESPN's Pardon the Interruption today, "I don't believe anything this guy (Favre) says about retirement."
As long as Brett hangs onto his spite for Ted Thompson and can stand upright he's going to think he can extract his revenge. I never thought I'd say it, but I almost relish the thought now of new kids B.J. Raji and Clay Matthews meeting Brett...at the same time...and reacquainting him in a personal way with the Frozen Tundra. I'd rather have Brett walk out onto that hallowed ground for his number retirement ceremony and the adulation he rightly deserves. But if he wants to be a putz...my advice to the Packers D: plant him!
Maybe that will finally knock the spite out of him and some sense into him.
You can read the Yahoo Sports story here.
Saturday, May 02, 2009
The Packers' weekend for rookies
The first step on the path to an NFL career for many young men was last weekend's NFL Draft. For those not drafted, it was being signed immediately afterward as a free agent. And for still others, they were invited in for a tryout. All those players come together this weekend for the Packers in Green Bay. The rookie orientation camp began Friday and will run through tomorrow.
In addition to the eight players the Packers drafted, there are 11 rookie free agents along with 21 players in for tryouts. Four players from the Packers practice squad also are participating. This would be a fun weekend to be on hand. But it's not something open to the public, and only one of the three sessions is open to reporters. Still some serious business going on. Such as who among the free agents and/or tryout guys might actually have a shot at making it to the roster.
One of the players that caught Head Coach Mike McCarthy's eye according to a report was former Northwestern RB Tyrell Sutton: "I think Tyrell Sutton jumped out. I don't know what everybody else thought but I thought he showed some ability...He definitely has some athletic ability." John Dorsey, the Packers director of college scouting, had this to say about Sutton: "He is Northwestern's second all-time leading rusher. He's a short guy, not a small guy. He's got some strength from his hip to his knee. He catches the ball really well. We don't have a guy like him." At 5'8" and 213 lbs, perhaps Sutton might be the type of change up or third down back the Packers haven't really had in the last year or two. Will be interesting to see how he comes through the weekend.
If you want to read a capsule summary of Dorsey's take on each of the free agents, you can do so here. You'll also find a list of the players in for tryouts...among whom there are even two punters! Oh...and a safety prospect whose nickname is "Pig." Long-time Packer fans will remember fondly the late, great player and coach Dave "Hawg" Hanner. There can only be one "Hawg." A "Pig" is a long-shot.
Ol' #4 to be a ViQueen?
We've known for almost a year now, especially when the relationship between Packers GM Ted Thompson and our former QB Brett Favre went south -- and I don't mean Mississippi -- that in Brett's mind the best way to stick it to Ted would be to play for the rival ViQueens. That's why the Pack had a poison pill clause in the deal with the Jets that if they traded Brett to anybody in the division the Packers would receive three first round draft picks. But the Jets released Brett this week which makes him a free agent eligible to sign with any team...including any team in the division. Well, let's see...Da Bearz draft, as even one Chicago sports writer mentioned on radio this last week, can be summarized as "Jay Cutler" (oh, and that summarizes next year's draft for Da Bearz too according to this same reporter)...and the woeful Lions of course spent what's left of the Motor City on a rookie QB from Georgia. That leaves...hmm...the ViQueens. And just to stir the pot, "During a minicamp news conference on Friday, Vikings coach Brad Childress said he likely would discuss that (Favre's availability) with his staff at some point."
Oy. Brett, buddy, will ya please retire already? Ride your lawn mower, work on your farm, go huntin' and fishin'. Enjoy your money. Don't do any more damage to your reputation by showing that your shoulder and/or arm isn't what it used to be. And worse: don't EVER wear that funky purple. Yes, we'd still love you. But it would kind go from that admiration and grateful kind of love to more of that love you have for your crazy old uncle who still thinks the government can listen in on your phone calls...well, wait...they did...bad example...well, you know what I mean.
Read more on the latest Favre soap opera here.
In addition to the eight players the Packers drafted, there are 11 rookie free agents along with 21 players in for tryouts. Four players from the Packers practice squad also are participating. This would be a fun weekend to be on hand. But it's not something open to the public, and only one of the three sessions is open to reporters. Still some serious business going on. Such as who among the free agents and/or tryout guys might actually have a shot at making it to the roster.
One of the players that caught Head Coach Mike McCarthy's eye according to a report was former Northwestern RB Tyrell Sutton: "I think Tyrell Sutton jumped out. I don't know what everybody else thought but I thought he showed some ability...He definitely has some athletic ability." John Dorsey, the Packers director of college scouting, had this to say about Sutton: "He is Northwestern's second all-time leading rusher. He's a short guy, not a small guy. He's got some strength from his hip to his knee. He catches the ball really well. We don't have a guy like him." At 5'8" and 213 lbs, perhaps Sutton might be the type of change up or third down back the Packers haven't really had in the last year or two. Will be interesting to see how he comes through the weekend.
If you want to read a capsule summary of Dorsey's take on each of the free agents, you can do so here. You'll also find a list of the players in for tryouts...among whom there are even two punters! Oh...and a safety prospect whose nickname is "Pig." Long-time Packer fans will remember fondly the late, great player and coach Dave "Hawg" Hanner. There can only be one "Hawg." A "Pig" is a long-shot.
Ol' #4 to be a ViQueen?
We've known for almost a year now, especially when the relationship between Packers GM Ted Thompson and our former QB Brett Favre went south -- and I don't mean Mississippi -- that in Brett's mind the best way to stick it to Ted would be to play for the rival ViQueens. That's why the Pack had a poison pill clause in the deal with the Jets that if they traded Brett to anybody in the division the Packers would receive three first round draft picks. But the Jets released Brett this week which makes him a free agent eligible to sign with any team...including any team in the division. Well, let's see...Da Bearz draft, as even one Chicago sports writer mentioned on radio this last week, can be summarized as "Jay Cutler" (oh, and that summarizes next year's draft for Da Bearz too according to this same reporter)...and the woeful Lions of course spent what's left of the Motor City on a rookie QB from Georgia. That leaves...hmm...the ViQueens. And just to stir the pot, "During a minicamp news conference on Friday, Vikings coach Brad Childress said he likely would discuss that (Favre's availability) with his staff at some point."
Oy. Brett, buddy, will ya please retire already? Ride your lawn mower, work on your farm, go huntin' and fishin'. Enjoy your money. Don't do any more damage to your reputation by showing that your shoulder and/or arm isn't what it used to be. And worse: don't EVER wear that funky purple. Yes, we'd still love you. But it would kind go from that admiration and grateful kind of love to more of that love you have for your crazy old uncle who still thinks the government can listen in on your phone calls...well, wait...they did...bad example...well, you know what I mean.
Read more on the latest Favre soap opera here.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Favre now a free agent
Yes, we know Brett said he's retired...again. But then why did he ask for his release from the Jets? That's what happened earlier this week apparently. The Newark Star-Ledger reported this development Tuesday night. The article says that Favre put out a statement reading: "“Bus (Cook, his agent) and Mike (Tannenbaum, GM of the Jets) have been talking about this for a while. Nothing has changed. As this point, I am retired and have no intention of returning to football.”
But then, according to a comment reply to an article about this in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, he last night "twittered that he's now accepting offers and he thanked 'Mike'."
Oh boy. Of course, the poison pill clause the Pack had with the Jets was only effective if the Jets traded Brett to another team in the division. With a release, Brett can sign with any team he wants and the Pack would receive no compensation. What do you think? Is he still looking to stick it to Ted Thompson? Would he come back to sign with the ViQueens just to spite Ted?
Let's hope Brett takes the high road at this point. His arm clearly didn't have it going down the stretch last season. It's time to stay retired, Brett. Unless...you want to come back and sign with the Packers so you can retire the way you should have the first time around.
You can read the Press-Gazette article here.
But then, according to a comment reply to an article about this in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, he last night "twittered that he's now accepting offers and he thanked 'Mike'."
Oh boy. Of course, the poison pill clause the Pack had with the Jets was only effective if the Jets traded Brett to another team in the division. With a release, Brett can sign with any team he wants and the Pack would receive no compensation. What do you think? Is he still looking to stick it to Ted Thompson? Would he come back to sign with the ViQueens just to spite Ted?
Let's hope Brett takes the high road at this point. His arm clearly didn't have it going down the stretch last season. It's time to stay retired, Brett. Unless...you want to come back and sign with the Packers so you can retire the way you should have the first time around.
You can read the Press-Gazette article here.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Packers Fan Fest notes
The Fifth Annual Packers Fan Fest took place yesterday and today at the Lambeau Field Atrium. And, perhaps for the first time, it was not a sell-out. Management, players and fans all attributed that rare circumstance to the current economic situation.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Two Days On: Favre Still Retired...and Talking
OK, OK, I know that headline reference is getting old very quickly. Won't use it again. Well, probably not.
Anyway, ol' #4 -- Brett Favre -- gave his first extensive post-retirement on-air interview today on ESPN with that network's Ed Werder. Defintely worth watching. Even if he is wearing a Jets cap. Check it out right here, and settle in for about 15-20 minutes.
If you want to read about the interview and some of his quotes, check out the story here. Brett makes it clear in the interview he loved being a Packer and loves the fans, but also admits that he was angry at Packers' management last year because of the way he felt he was treated. Like we didn't already know that. Still, Brett appears much more reflective than perhaps we might expect. Perhaps we'll see him in Green Bay to retire that jersey sooner that initially thought.
Packers Fan Fest
The Packers will host their annual fan celebration, Packers Fan Fest, March 13-14.
According to an email from the Packers:
"For the popular autograph sessions, we've got a great lineup of our current players, including Atari Bigby, Nick Collins, Mason Crosby, Donald Driver, Ryan Grant, Al Harris, Cullen Jenkins, James Jones, Aaron Kampman and Ryan Pickett. And it's always great to see our alumni, with this year's group including Donny Anderson, LeRoy Butler, Willie Davis, William Henderson, Jerry Kramer, Dorsey Levens, Jan Stenerud, Frank Winters and Ron Wolf.
Fans also will be excited to meet our coaches, particularly new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his staff, at the Friday night meet-and-greet. On Saturday, the coaches' strategy sessions will be particularly interesting, especially when the "Defense 101" session discusses the new '3-4' defense the Packers will employ in 2009.
An attraction not to be overlooked is the exclusive tour through the team's locker room on Saturday. Fans can see behind-the-scenes areas not offered on the regular stadium tour. Also, admission to the Packers Hall of Fame is included as part of the event.
Tickets are available, and priced again at $85 per person. It's an event for the whole family, and kids 6 and younger enter free with a ticketed adult, so please bring along the young fans in your family. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster online, over the phone and in person."
For more info on purchasing tickets and a complete listing of Fan Fest activities, just click here.
Anyway, ol' #4 -- Brett Favre -- gave his first extensive post-retirement on-air interview today on ESPN with that network's Ed Werder. Defintely worth watching. Even if he is wearing a Jets cap. Check it out right here, and settle in for about 15-20 minutes.
If you want to read about the interview and some of his quotes, check out the story here. Brett makes it clear in the interview he loved being a Packer and loves the fans, but also admits that he was angry at Packers' management last year because of the way he felt he was treated. Like we didn't already know that. Still, Brett appears much more reflective than perhaps we might expect. Perhaps we'll see him in Green Bay to retire that jersey sooner that initially thought.
Packers Fan Fest
The Packers will host their annual fan celebration, Packers Fan Fest, March 13-14.
According to an email from the Packers:
"For the popular autograph sessions, we've got a great lineup of our current players, including Atari Bigby, Nick Collins, Mason Crosby, Donald Driver, Ryan Grant, Al Harris, Cullen Jenkins, James Jones, Aaron Kampman and Ryan Pickett. And it's always great to see our alumni, with this year's group including Donny Anderson, LeRoy Butler, Willie Davis, William Henderson, Jerry Kramer, Dorsey Levens, Jan Stenerud, Frank Winters and Ron Wolf.
Fans also will be excited to meet our coaches, particularly new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his staff, at the Friday night meet-and-greet. On Saturday, the coaches' strategy sessions will be particularly interesting, especially when the "Defense 101" session discusses the new '3-4' defense the Packers will employ in 2009.
An attraction not to be overlooked is the exclusive tour through the team's locker room on Saturday. Fans can see behind-the-scenes areas not offered on the regular stadium tour. Also, admission to the Packers Hall of Fame is included as part of the event.
Tickets are available, and priced again at $85 per person. It's an event for the whole family, and kids 6 and younger enter free with a ticketed adult, so please bring along the young fans in your family. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster online, over the phone and in person."
For more info on purchasing tickets and a complete listing of Fan Fest activities, just click here.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
24 Hours Later: Favre Still Retired
It's now about 24 hours since the news broke that ol' #4, Brett Favre, announced his re-retirement. And the news is: he's still retired. But...didn't we hear that once before? Hmmm...
The general consensus among all the sports TV and radio pundits is that this time it just might stick. Why? Sure sounds as if Brett found out that his body was finally giving out after 18 years being the gunslinger.
You may recall reading comments after the end of the season that Jets' sources were strongly suggesting to Brett that if he wanted to return that he should have surgery to fix the elbow/shoulder problems which basically became very apparent down the season stretch. Brett just wasn't able to throw the ball with the zip and accuracy for which he was famous. And it didn't appear as if Brett was too anxious to go under the knife and re-hab just to essentially get one more year of play in to spite Packers' GM Ted Thompson. He'd already done that. Heck, in Favre's interview with ESPN's Ed Werder (see yesterday's post for link), he said that he really didn't care whether his stats were better than new Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, he just wanted to have the Jets win more games than the Packers. He succeeded in that latter goal. He got his personal revenge on Thompson that way, at least.
So, how are we going to know that Brett actually stays with his decision? As one Green Bay sports reporter noted, a clue will be as to whether Brett does decide to have surgery or not. If so, that might be a precursor to yet another comeback. How likely is that? Based on Favre's comments, this time it sounds like he might actually have realized it's time to hang up the cleats for good.
But we thought once before.
Judge for yourself. You can listen to a bit of Favre's teleconference below.
If you want to read Brett's retirement non-press conference comments, you can do so here. You can also see lots of links to lots of other related comments.
One of the better clips is a "burn" from sports guy Jim Rome about how Favre blew it with Green Bay, not vice versa. Watch for yourself.
Statement from the Packers
The Packers took a good portion of yesterday to come up with their official statement. It's short and sweet, which is probably for the best.
The general consensus among all the sports TV and radio pundits is that this time it just might stick. Why? Sure sounds as if Brett found out that his body was finally giving out after 18 years being the gunslinger.
You may recall reading comments after the end of the season that Jets' sources were strongly suggesting to Brett that if he wanted to return that he should have surgery to fix the elbow/shoulder problems which basically became very apparent down the season stretch. Brett just wasn't able to throw the ball with the zip and accuracy for which he was famous. And it didn't appear as if Brett was too anxious to go under the knife and re-hab just to essentially get one more year of play in to spite Packers' GM Ted Thompson. He'd already done that. Heck, in Favre's interview with ESPN's Ed Werder (see yesterday's post for link), he said that he really didn't care whether his stats were better than new Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, he just wanted to have the Jets win more games than the Packers. He succeeded in that latter goal. He got his personal revenge on Thompson that way, at least.
So, how are we going to know that Brett actually stays with his decision? As one Green Bay sports reporter noted, a clue will be as to whether Brett does decide to have surgery or not. If so, that might be a precursor to yet another comeback. How likely is that? Based on Favre's comments, this time it sounds like he might actually have realized it's time to hang up the cleats for good.
But we thought once before.
Judge for yourself. You can listen to a bit of Favre's teleconference below.
If you want to read Brett's retirement non-press conference comments, you can do so here. You can also see lots of links to lots of other related comments.
One of the better clips is a "burn" from sports guy Jim Rome about how Favre blew it with Green Bay, not vice versa. Watch for yourself.
Statement from the Packers
The Packers took a good portion of yesterday to come up with their official statement. It's short and sweet, which is probably for the best.
Congratulations to Brett on a remarkable career. The Packers organization wishes him and his family well. Brett always will hold a special place in Green Bay Packers history, and we remain committed to retiring his number at an appropriate time in the future.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
