A shocker: Packers release KGB

It was apparent that KGB -- Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila -- was not the same player as in years past, especially after his right knee surgery in May. He was primarily relegated to being a third-down specialist. But this season, he was pretty much a non-factor even then. That apparently made the Packers decision to release him easier. The move appears more than coincidental with making roster room for second-year player and last year's first round draft pick, Justin Harrell, to come off the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. It will also allow younger players, such as Jeremy Thompson and Mike Montgomery, more opportunity. It's a business, folks. And when your skills are clearly on the decline and some young kids are looking to make their marks, your days are numbered. KGB is no longer a Green Bay Packer.

During his nine years with the Pack, KGB appeared in 124 games, with 74 starts. He is the the Packers' all-time sacks leader with 74½, passing Reggie White (68½) last season.

KGB issued the following statement through the Packers: “My nine years as a Green Bay Packer have been a blessing that is beyond words. I thank God for bringing me to this first-class organization and first-class community. During my time here, I’ve built relationships with a number of people in the Packer family. The front office executives, G.M.s, coaches, past and present players, the enormous support and administrative staff plus the greatest fans in football, all have helped make my time here truly special and I am thankful for that. It has been a very positive experience. I was able to build a family here and grow with a community that I call home. Again, I’ve been truly blessed. I don’t know what my football future holds, but one thing I’ve realized is that football is more than a game - it’s about building relationships and changing lives. One of the commitments I’ve had throughout my career has been to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and that is something that I intend on doing whether on the field or not. God bless the Green Bay Packers!”

Always a class guy, and one of those players you were glad represented the Packers on and off the field. He will be missed. But you can be sure we'll be seeing KGB back in a few years when he joins the Packers Hall of Fame.

Let's congratulate Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila for his career with the Pack. Good luck on whatever comes next, KGB!

Packers activate Harrell
As has been speculated recently, Justin Harrell is finally coming off the PUP list and will be active for tomorrow's game against the Titans. Apparently, he's looked good in practice this week and that confirmed the decision to activate him. How much action he'll see remains to be seen. The Packers now, for about the first time this season, have more than a handful of defensive linemen available to rotate. That should allow the coaches to find the best combination of players at any given time to pressure the Titans' offense. It's been a luxury they haven't had much this season and it is one of the reasons I think the Pack will pull off the upset against Tennessee.

But more on that tomorrow.

Packers - Colts Preview

By 6:30 p.m. or so this evening, the Packers will either still be tied for first place in the NFC North or, at worst, behind by one game going into their bye week. Given the fact that there was a three-game losing streak in the midst of these first seven weeks of the season, given the change at quarterback, given the rash of injuries on this team, the Packers are probably fortunate to be in either position following the game today.

Prior to the season starting, this was -- frankly -- one of those games I looked at as falling into what I projected to be one of the Packers' six season losses.

However, a review of the comparative stats shows these two teams have been surprisingly similar so far, as evidenced by the Pack's 3-3 record and the Colts' 3-2 tally. But in reality much of the stats comparability is perhaps due more to the Colts floundering about for the first part of the season more than anyone expected. Unfortunately for our Packers, the Colts seemed to have finally gotten their act together last week versus Baltimore. Of course, the Pack ended its skid, as well, in Seattle. And we're playing at home. But that hasn't meant much lately, as Lambeau Field has been the site of two out of three of the team's losses.

The Colts main running back, Joseph Addai is out for the game. That should help minimize the run threat. But with the Colts, that's not really the main problem anyway, is it? The problem comes via someone by the name of Peyton Manning. He also is the master of the no-huddle offense, which will put much pressure on a depleted Packers defense, especially the defensive line. While the Packers were able to generate a few sacks last week against a third-string QB in Seattle, Manning gets the ball away as quickly as anyone. If KGB (remember him?) and Aaron Kampman register any sacks today it will have to come through some major breakdown on the Colts' part rather than via blitz packages or other such schemes. Blitzes could open the door for Manning to light things up. Good thing our defensive coordinator is reluctant to use them anyway.

As for the Packers, Aaron Rodgers should once again perform well. Ryan Grant, for the first time last week, seemed oh-so-close to finally breaking a big run. He will need to have his best day of the year if the Packers are to have a shot at beating the Colts today. Grant's running style, however, isn't the kind which is ideally suited to beating the quick pursuit of the Colts. A little "shake 'n bake" running ability -- quick cut backs, etc. -- are what's needed. Perhaps that will come in the form of one of the backup RBs.

Whatever it takes, the Packers must control the ball and time of possession to keep Manning off the field...that's the best defense the Pack could possibly have today.

The Colts are favored by one point. My Packer fan perspective of course has me calling for the Packers to win this one in a high scoring shootout. But my gut tells me that my preseason prediction of this one going in the Packers' loss column is probably more likely.

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.

Brett's locker is history, KGB has surgery, training camp schedule set

Over the past several weeks, you may have heard various sports pundits on ESPN and elsewhere speculating on the reason why the Packers had yet to remove Brett Favre's name from his locker. Could it be because they were holding out hope he'd un-retire? Or did they know something the rest of us didn't?

Naaaaaaahhhh.

Turns out that it was just a bit of a delay in dismantling the locker and shipping it off to Brett as a bit of a thank you for his time with the Pack. "We decided several months ago that at the appropriate time that we would disassemble it, crate it up and take it to Brett's place so it will be Brett's locker," Packers' GM Ted Thompson told reporters on Thursday. "The reason we hadn't done it yet is because the workers have to have the time and freedom to come and go and so we've got to do it sometime between our minicamp and the start of our training camp."

Following yesterday's practice, Brett's nameplate was finally removed and replaced by a plain Packers nameplate. (Yes, bow your heads for a moment of silence...thank you.) The whole unit will be pulled out after the June minicamp concludes and will be replaced with a new one. Aaron Rodgers won't have to answer questions anymore about still seeing Brett's locker and what that might mean. And Brett will get a locker to hold his fishing gear and who-knows-what.

KGB has surgery
Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila had arthroscopic knee surgery yesterday morning in an effort to help mitigate the nagging problems he had this last year and which have apparently carried over into Spring workouts and OTAs. The idea is to have him ready for training camp. You can read more about this and some of the other ailing Packers here.

Packers Training Camp Schedule Set
The Packers have set their summer training camp schedule, beginning on Monday, July 28, with two practices. Because of the Monday night preseason opener, the Packers wind up having to cram all four preseason games into an 18-day span. Yikes! There's only four days between games 1 and 2, and five days each between games 2 and 3, and games 3 and 4. Coach Mike McCarthy stated, "Our training camp schedule really parallels our in-season schedule. We have a prime-time, Monday Night Football game to start the preseason and the regular season, so this will help us prepare for the regular season." They will certainly get a feel for working at a hectic pace.

Packers - Raiders preview

It's less than 2 hours to game time at Lambeau. And this time of year, one has to take a closer look at the weather forecast. So, courtesy of The Weather Channel, here's what might be expected: "Snow showers. High 22F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 70%." Welcome to Green Bay, Raiders.

A couple of points to ponder. The Pack go into this game as 10-1/2 point favorites. That's a big spread, even against a team such as Oakland, which really probably isn't as bad as their 4-8 record might indicate. OK, their rushing defense is 30th in the league, their QB is...who?...and...that's about it. So, not great.

But, the Packers are still dinged up. Most importantly, ol' #4 is still nursing some hurts from the Dallas game, although he will start the game, of course. (That's 250 consecutive regular season starts...but who's counting?) What might that mean as far as the game? Probably a lot more handoffs than we've seen to this point in the season. It's possible that Ryan Grant might have a career high in rushing attempts today. That would be just fine if those rushes moved the chains and resulted in points. The other thing that might be expected is far fewer 7-step drops...you know, the kind that really worked against the Pack in the first half of the Dallas game? But I digress. The point is that in order to minimize the exposure of Brett to hits from old friends such as Warren Sapp, passes will probably be more of the 3- and 5-step variety, slants and quick timing passes. If the Packers were able to build a substantial lead in the second half, we shouldn't be surprised if Brett gave way late to Craig Nall in mop up duty. Brett should only be left in as long as absolutely necessary.

Charles Woodson practiced Friday and would love to play against his old team. On the other hand, it might be better for the Pack to hold him out unless he is absolutely recovered from his toe injury, which he is not. Having Woodson healthy for the playoffs is more important than any grudge match he may be wishing for today.

KGB will be back today. Bubba is still doubtful. Johnny Jolly is still out and probably will be the next player to be put on injured reserve when the Packers need to make a roster move. And, as noted in a post here earlier this week, QB Aaron Rodgers is out with a hamstring injury following his admirable performance in relief of Brett against the Cowboys.

So, what does all this add up to? A Packer win. Although the Packers still have to show up. If they do that and take care of business, the Pack clinches the division today. I don't expect a high-scoring game. For the sake of argument, let's call it 24-14 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

The morning after: ouch

Yes, fellow Packer fans, it was not a bad dream. It was real. Our Pack getting beat yet again in Dallas. Brett looking like more the QB of the 90's losing in Dallas rather than the QB of 2007 winning anywhere and everywhere.

But the big ouch was Brett getting knocked out of the game in the second quarter. Initially it was diagnosed as an elbow injury. Later on it was stated as an elbow sprain and funny bone injury affecting the nerve more than the bone. We awake this morning, though, to also learn that Brett suffered a partial separation of his left shoulder on that same play. What is amazing, though, was that Brett addressed the media after the game and about the only mention he made of the shoulder was that it was hurt but if need be they'd just "shoot it up" and he'd be ready to go in the game against the Raiders on Dec. 9 at Lambeau. As some of the radio folks were saying this morning, how do you not know you've separated your shoulder? To which one of the other radio folks replied, "He's a freak of nature...but in a good way." Ya think???

Other than Brett's injuries, Coach McCarthy last evening indicated that there were no other injuries he was a aware of coming out of the game. That's good. Because, as noted here and elsewhere, there were certainly enough going into the game. And, it could be argued, those injuries certainly did have an impact on the outcome of the game. The loss of Charles Woodson in the secondary was huge. Jarrett Bush was burned repeatedly, eventually being replaced by Tramon Williams. Players looked out of position and confused. Al Harris admitted afterward that there were "communication problems" in the secondary. But Harris also admitted that there should be no excuses and that the Pack just got beat. The injuries on the defensive line -- Johnny Jolly, Colin Cole, and KGB -- also showed up in the total lack of pressure on Tony Romo all night long. The Pack did not get any sacks, and rarely pressured Romo. Combined with the lack of pressure on the QB and the lack of communication in the secondary, it set things up for a big night for the kid from Burlington, WI.

With that said, as noted in the last post of last evening, backup QB Aaron Rodgers brought the Pack back, leading the team back from a 27-10 deficit to make it 27-24 late in the game. He spearheaded drives leading to two touchdowns and a field goal and kept the Pack in the game right up until the last minute. He looked very sharp on his throws and very poised. If for some reason Brett were unable to go against the Raiders, or could not go all the way, fans should feel much more comfortable with the guy filling the shoes. As Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers, said during a radio interview this morning, Rodgers can beat the Raiders. This is not hype from a Packers mouthpiece. Larrivee is a seasoned sportscaster and, in fact, noted that he has watched Rodgers play since his first game at California. Larrivee did and still does college play-by-play announcing and thus had a chance to see Rodgers on more than a few occasions during his college career. Larrivee liked him then and indicated that, unlike many top college QBs who have come into the league and got thrown into play and "get beat up", as Larrivee expressed it, with bad teams, Rodgers -- in his third year -- has had a chance to mature and watch one of the game's best. As Larrivee noted, that will serve both Rodgers and the Packers well whenever Brett decides to finally...well, you know...

If you want to read more about Brett's injuries and related matters, check out this story.

As noted in the final post of last evening, there's a lot to digest about this game. Perhaps there will be more here later today. Thanks for reading.

Packers vs Cowboys: late-breaking news

Bad news for the Packers as they go into tonight's game. Three of the players who were expected to be gametime decisions because of injuries have all been ruled out for tonight: Charles Woodson, KGB, and Aaron Rouse. With Woodson out, Jarrett Bush will once again be called upon to pick up the slack. Jason Hunter will have to fill KGB's shoes. Nick Collins was going to return to his starter spot tonight even if Aaron Rouse had been able to play, but combined with Woodson's absence it again affects the entire depth of the secondary. The Packers anticipated this situation earlier in the week, though, when they placed Colin Cole on injured reserve and re-signed safety Marviel Underwood to the squad. Reports are, though, that Underwood will be inactive tonight and Will Blackmon will fill one of the back up spots.

These are key hits on the defensive side of the ball. As noted in my earlier post, this game will be an indicator of how deep the Packers really are. But will it be a true test of team vs. team straight up? That may have to wait until the playoffs. Because these two teams will be meeting again.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers banged up

It's that time of the NFL season when team depth starts to show, well, how deep it is. (Is that a redundancy?) Fortunately for the Packers, they have so far been able to fill every hole that has opened up. Some folks questioned the reasoning in keeping 11 defensive linemen. Not any more. Example: yesterday Colin Cole was not only activated for one of the few games this season but saw a lot of action because of the injury the prior week to Johnny Jolly. Cole wound up fracturing his forearm during the game and he is definitely out for the game against the Cowboys and perhaps longer if surgery is required. Mike Montgomery came in and was involved in several pressures and tackles. This coming week, with both Jolly (out indefinitely) and Cole definitely out, that means first round pick Justin Harrell and Daniel Muir, another rookie, will move up in the D-line scheme.

Others who came out of the game nicked up include: Charles Woodson, who apparently has a jammed toe suffered on his 34-yard punt return; KGB, who hurt his ankle; Aaron Rouse, who was starting in place of the injured Nick Collins, came out with a knee injury; Mark Tauscher's already injured ankle made him give way late in the game for Tony Moll; Donald Driver appeared to have a sore ankle after getting rolled up on while blocking on a rushing play.

Of course, some players have already been out for a while: Bubba Franks and Will Blackmon among them.

So, as we go into this showdown of 10-1 teams next Thursday night -- only the fifth time in the last 60 years that two teams with 10 wins or better have matched up in the regular season -- it might be important to keep an eye on the injury reports for both teams. If you want to keep up to date on the Packers injury status, go here. If you care to keep an eye on the Cowboys injuries, go here.

The Pack needs as many of their topline players available as possible come next Thursday. Given that veteran players like Woodson, Driver, and Tauscher will want to be in that game, count on adrenalin to help carry them onto the field if at all possible. The Pack will need to be firing on all cylinders for the entire 60 minutes of the game. If the starters can't go, the back ups have to be ready. So far this season, they have been. And they'll have to take their game to another level. This game could very well determine home field advantage throughout the playoffs. It will be the Pack's biggest challenge yet. They have the team -- and the coaching -- to get it done. Let's get ready to r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-umble!!!

Halftime: Packers 17 - Lions 9

This has not been a pretty half for the Packers. The defense let the Lions march down on their first drive for a field goal. A fumble on the Pack's first offensive play occurred when Brett was stepped on coming out from behind center and the exchange between he and Ryan Grant got messed up at about their own 25. Luckily, the defense held and the Lions had to settle for another 3.

When Aaron Rouse picked off a John Kitna pass and took it down to about the 10, the Pack converted a TD immediately on a quick slant pass to Greg Jennings. Packers 7 - Lions 6. The Pack then held the Lions and commenced an 80-yard drive, consisting of some great catches by Donald Driver and a 5-yard TD run by Ryan Grant. Packers 14 - Lions 6.

After a touchdown-saving tackle by Tramon Williams on the kickoff return, the Lions had to once again settle for another field goal as the Packers D continues to bend but not break. Packers 14 - Lions 9.

With a little more than 2 minutes left in the half, the Packers began a 78-yard drive which took the ball down to about the Lions 2-yard line. They had to use their third and final timeout of the drive to stop the clock with about 4 seconds to go. Mason Crosby came on to make a a 20-yard field goal to put the pack up by 8 at halftime, 17-9.

Some interesting stats: Detroit has run 45 plays to the Packers' 25; Detroit has 113 yards rushing, the Pack 7. The time of possession heavily favors Detroit.

On an injury note, CB Charles Woodson left the game in the first half after injuring a toe on a return; KGB left the game late in the half after apparently getting an ankle injury while making a sack on Kitna; report is KGB is done for the day.

Favre set to carve

Gobble gobble, Packer fans. Happy Thanksgiving to one and all. May your plate be full and your pants be expando-matic today. This is the day we give thanks for all the good things in our lives. And certainly, one of the things we are most thankful for this year is our 9-1 Packers. And what better way to rejoice in all that is America's real team than to start our holiday celebrations by watching the Packers beat the Lions?

It's a slightly early start time today, 11:30 a.m. Central time. And, of course, the Pack is coming off just a few days rest following its victory over Carolina on Sunday. But nothing should prevent the Pack from taking care of business in Detroit. Of course, they will have to stay focused and not start thinking too soon about those big turkey dinners waiting for them when they get back to Green Bay later this evening. Or looking past the Lions to the game against the Cowboys next Thursday evening.

Detroit was hot, now they've lost two in a row. They need to win to keep within striking distance of the Pack, although that's a long shot. As is the playoffs for them if they don't win today. As one of the Packers players said in a radio interview earlier this week, this will be Detroit's Super Bowl. So the Lions will be jacked up and may keep it close for a while.

Perhaps this year more than in recent memory, the Lions actually think they have a good team. But the passing game is about all they have. They've rushed for minus-18 and 25 yards in the last two games. And QB John Kitna has to rely on his not-so-great O-line to protect him while the receivers try to get down field. As a result, Kitna's been sacked a lot...a lot. Now, put that up against the Pack's D-line who have been known to get an effective pass rush going and it could be a long day for Mr. Kitna. Cue Aaron Kampman and KGB. The Pack will be missing DT Johnny Jolly, but Colin Cole and the other guys in the rotation will fill in admirably. Now, don't get me wrong, Kitna will make some throws and, if the Packers D-backs aren't on their usual game, could burn the Pack a time or two. This must be what the oddsmakers are factoring in to their 3-1/2 spread in favor of the Pack.

But those same oddsmakers must be forgetting the porous secondary the Lions will be putting on the field to go against the Pack's group of outstanding receivers. How many 4 and 5 receiver sets do you think we'll see today? Word to the Lions secondary: be afraid...be very afraid.

The Pack have the running game going enough to keep the defense guessing, despite starter Ryan Grant having a bit of a gimpy ankle coming out of last week's game. Brandon Jackson and Vernand Morency might see a bit more action than in prior weeks, but the group should still be able to keep things rolling. And as for ol #4? Count on a big game today.

Take the Pack to reveal the Lions for the turkeys they really are. And pass the gravy, please.

Pack vs. 'Skins Recap

Yesterday was one of those win-ugly games that the Pack seems to be turning into an art form this season. They might not be pretty games to watch, but the results are sure pretty darn good. 5-1. There's lucky. And there's good. Sometimes, both is the way to be. That may describe the Pack so far.

While there were certainly enough problems that could have cost the Pack this win, the fact that the defense basically won this game is a good sign. The 'Skins came in with a hot young QB, a proven running back, and as things would have it, a tight end that was their best offensive weapon all day long. They also had a pretty darn good defense. The combination of all those things led to two interceptions by the 'Skins, although there could just as easily have been as many as five. There also could have a been a few fumble recoveries. Missed opportunities on the part of the 'Skins. Perhaps that's why Chris Collinsworth -- on whatever network he's on these days -- was nearly apoplectic when describing how Washington had "given the game away." They certainly did help, granted, especially with that 57-yard fumble recovery for a TD by Charles Woodson.

But give the game away? How did the 'Skins give the game away when the Pack had two missed field goals, two interceptions, and two touchdowns nullified by bad calls by the refs? In the case of the latter, Bubba Franks got one foot down in the end zone before being pushed out. On a similar play last week, the Bears receiver was deemed to have been forced out and Da Bearz got their winning points. On the second non-TD, it was called back on a phantom holding penalty against Mark Tauscher, who is one of the least-penalized players not only on the team but probably the entire NFL. Replays, and commentary by the crew calling the game, failed to indicate exactly where the penalty was. And -- in one of those "oh-oh" moments -- after the Pack recovered a fumble at the 'Skins own 9-yard line, they failed to even convert a field goal. So, let's see...the Pack leave up to 20 points on the field and Collinsworth says the 'Skins "gave the game away"? Right. Brilliant insights, Mr. Collinsworth. Yes, the 'Skins did help with dropped passes and those fumbles. But the Pack was doing its best to give the game away, too.

Still, as noted at the outset, it was the "D' that won this game. Charles Woodson had an interception and that fumble-recovery return for the winning touchdown -- his first ever fumble recovery TD, by the way. Huge game. Aaron Kampman put pressure on the 'Skins QB all day, including some clutch sacks. Nick Barnett had a couple huge stops, including a critical fourth-down play. Cullen Jenkins, KGB, Johnny Jolly, Corey Williams, A. J. Hawk, Atari Bigby, Al Harris...the entire defense all came up big. Game balls for everyone!

Brett didn't have a particularly good day although, again, he had two TD passes called back. He passed George Blanda for the #1 spot in all-time interceptions. Special teams didn't have a good day either, with rookie kicker Mason Crosby making one field goal while missing two. And, of course, the running game...well, you can't even say it sucks because that would imply there was something there to actually suck. The running game is non-existent, although it did account for an actual rushing TD early in the game. Who'da thunk it?

So, going into the bye week, the Packers are tied with the Cowboys for the best record in the NFC. They have a lot to work on. But if the defense can maintain its high level of play, and the offense can somehow find some balance, i.e., even a hint of a running game -- which is critical going into the bad weather months -- the Packers should be a lock for the playoffs. Let's just leave it at that for now.

Next stop: Monday Night Football, Oct. 29, at Denver.

Packers win 23-16!

This game, like so many games in the Humpty Dump over the years, almost took a nasty turn. But the turn turned, and all came out well. The Packers beat the ViQueens 23-16.

At the start of the quarter, the 'Queens held the Pack and we had to settle for a field goal to go up 16-9. After a bit of back and forth, Brett threw his 422nd TD pass on a beautiful fake pump and then sideline throw to James Jones, who carried it in for the first TD of his young career. This made the score 23-9 with just under 6 minutes to go. On the next series, the Packers had the 'Queens in a 3rd and 13 situation following a sack by KGB. A. J. Hawk proceeded to tackle Adrian Peterson short of the first down, but was flagged for a face-mask penalty that gave the 'Queens a first down and kept the drive alive. The defensive line continued to pressure the 'Queens QB, including another sack. But again, Minnesota converted, this time on 4th and 4 to put the ball at the Packers 28-yard line. A pass to the 15 took the game down to the 2-minute warning. The next play was a TD pass to Sidney Rice in the endzone over Jarrett Bush, making the score 23-16.

The 'Queens attempted an onside kick but, as last week, Donald Driver recovered with 1:54 to go. Minnesota had only 1 timeout left at this point. Following a handoff, the 'Queens called their last timeout. On the next play, attempting to just run out the clock, RB Ryan Grant fumbled the ball and the 'Queens recovered at their own 41-yard line. It appeared as if Grant never got the exhcange cleanly on the handoff. The 'Queens then moved the ball down to the Packers 35-yard line. Their next pass was tipped and intercepted by Atari Bigby before hitting the ground.

These games in the Humpty Dump are never easy. As noted in my pre-game posting, goofy things have tended to happen there over the years. But for the fourth time in the last five trips there, the Pack emerges with a victory.

The Pack still has absolutely no running game to speak of, placing dead last in the league in rushing. But...this was Brett Favre's day. He finished the day 32 of 45 for 344 yards (his 50th career 300+ yards game) and 2 touchdowns.

NFC North Division standings after today have the Pack at 4-0, the Lions at 3-1, and Da Bearz and ViQueens fighting it out for worst place at 1-3 each.

Da Bearz come to Lambeau Field next Sunday night. They have no quarterback, no running game, and the vaunted defense is hurt. They do have Devin Hester, who had another kickoff return today. This is an early prediction. But after next weekend, the Pack will be 5-0. First though, isn't it great to be 4-0? It's the first time since 1998. Oh yeah!!!

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.

2nd Quarter: Packers 10 - Eagles 10

Observations...

The quarter started with the Eagles with first and goal from about the 7-yard line. The Packers' defense held, and Philly had to settle for a field goal.

The Packers offense continues to sputter, with lots of pressure on Brett, who was sacked twice during the half.

With about 6 minutes remaining in the half, the Packers had about 40 yards of total offense (15 rushing and 25 passing), while the Eagles had approximately 160 passing yards alone. Brett got away with a pass he shouldn't have thrown that was almost intercepted at about our own 30.

The Packers were 2-7 on third downs in the half, with both first downs coming during their 2-minute drill.

All Harris returned to the field with about 10 minutes to go in the quarter, with a bit more tape and a sleeve over his right elbow and arm.

McNabb was able to scramble enough times under pressure to allow receivers time to get open -- bad news. They regained momentum and tied the score on a 9-yard pass play.

Cullen Jenkins was shaken up with about 7 minutes left in the quarter.  He walked off the field on his own after not initially getting up off the ground. Apparently he was cramping up, as he was back on the field before the end of the half.

The Packers, as radio announcer Wayne Larrivee, said, "still do not have an answer for Brian Westbrook."

KGB got a sack on McNabb which helped stop the Eagles last drive just before the 2-minute warning.

The Packers got down to about the Eagles 35-yard line and were attempting to get lined up to down the ball to set up a field goal...but...the clock expired. The radio announcers were a bit confused by that because they said that there was still one timeout showing for the Pack on the scoreboard.

For as much momentum as the Packers had in the first quarter -- basically all set up through special teams -- it swung to the Eagles in the 2nd quarter. If the Packers offense doesn't do something, especially on the ground, they will have a hard time winning this game.

Packers 13 - Steelers 9

The Packers won their first preseason game versus the Steelers last night. Was it a great game? No. It's preseason, after all. Was it interesting? Yes. Not because there were a lot of fantastic plays -- there weren't -- but because there was an opportunity to see some of the many young players on this squad compete. Last year, the Pack had the youngest roster in the NFL. This year they are still young. But, it's that youth which makes things interesting. Will players emerge and make names for themselves? Will this young team be able to build off the momentum of last season's four straight wins down the stretch? Lots of questions. No real answers at this point.

But...some observations of the game, in particular order:

• The first string offense looked awful. Brett was 2 of 7 for 7 yards, in four three-and-out situations. The running game was non-existent. Receivers were unable to get separation on their defenders (which might explain Brett's completion stats). Not good.


• The first string defense looked in fairly good form, especially the line and linebackers. Neither Al Harris or Charles Woodson played, so the team was able to get a good look at the plethora of defensive backs looking for work. Atari Bigby did not have a good night, giving up a couple big plays and missing tackles.


• Individually...Aaron Rodgers looked...actually very good. He ran the two-minute drill with authority, setting up a 32-yard field goal by Dave Rayner to close out the first half, Steelers 9 - Packers 3. He moved well in -- and out of -- the pocket. He wound up the night 18 of 27 for 168 yards and 1 TD, a nice fade route pass in the endzone to Carlyle Holiday.


• Bubba Franks -- carrying on a disturbing trend from last year -- dropped a wide open pass for a first down. He was visibly upset, as he should have been. If Tory Humphrey hadn't been lost for the season already, and with the emergence of Donald Lee, Bubba might be looking for work elsewhere. As it is, the Packers are pretty thin at tight end and Bubba might wind up sticking by default.


• Rookie RB Brandon Jackson, filling in at starter for the injured Vernand Morency (and the departed Ahman Green...sigh), had mixed results. He did next to nothing with the first string offense against the first string Steelers' defense. Although to be fair, no one else did much either. However, in the third quarter and against second and third string defenders, Jackson made some nice cuts, broke some tackles and had runs of 16 and 14 yards after having only 14 yards total on eight carries in the first half; Jackson wound up with 16 carries for 57 yards, or a 3.6 yards-per-carry average.


• Rookie receiver James Jones appears to be the real deal. Made some nice moves, showed great hands, and had six first-half receptions for 58 yards.


• Defensive end Cullen Jenkins had two sacks, KGB had one, as did rookie DE Larry Birdine. Jenkins also stripped Pittsburgh starting QB Ben Roethlisberger of the ball as he dropped back to pass and recovered the fumble. First round draft pick Justin Harrell also got one, and showed flashes of being able to generate a real pass rush. Nice to see.


• Special teams -- both coverage and returns -- still seemed to be where they were last year. In other words, not good. This is an area that HAS to shape up, and soon.


• The kicking game still looks like a draw. Dave Rayner made a 32-yarder at the end of the first half, and Mason Crosby drilled a 52-yarder in the third quarter that had room to spare. He was also nailing his kickoffs. Perhaps a slight edge to Crosby on the night


• Best news: no major injuries...at least that are known of at this time.

Next up: Seattle and ol' Coach Holmgren return to Lambeau on Saturday.

Training camp starts off...not so good

Let's see...in the first few days of training camp the Packers lose one of their tight ends (Tory Humphrey) for an undetermined amount of time -- perhaps the entire season -- with a fractured fibula, lose their nominal starting running back (Vernand Morency) for perhaps two to four weeks with an undisclosed knee injury, have their Pro Bowl #1 receiver (Donald Driver) fail his physical with a lingering shoulder injury, and have their QB (that would be Brett) experience yet another family loss -- his wife's stepfather died suddenly Saturday. Can you say, "Aaaaarrrrghhh!"?

Brett and his wife's stepfather, Rocky Byrd, had become very close over the past 10 years or so, according to reports. For Brett to receive the news of Byrd's sudden heart attack at age 56 had to resurface memories of his own father's death in 2003. There is an excellent and revealing article about all this at packersnews.com. You can find it here.

Over the weekend practices, with the injury to Humphrey and a few other unusual circumstances with the tight end corps, there actually were times when the offense had no tight ends to work with. Oh boy. The only silver lining to Morency's injury is it is giving the Packers extended looks at the other backs on the roster. And with Brett having to return to Mississippi to deal with Byrd's death, backup QB Aaron Rodgers is making the most of his opportunities. Media reports indicated that his throws and reads both looked sharp yesterday.

On another front, there's an interesting article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel about "KGB" and his new role as a designated pass rusher rather than starting defensive end. Check it out here.

Packers & Prayers

No, this is not a reference to our usual seasonal prayers for a successful draft, or season, or SuperBowl win, or that Favre doesn't get hurt and/or retire...rather, since we are in the midst of Easter and Passover seasons (while not meaning to exclude those of another or no particular religious affiliation), thought I'd pass along some info from a friend in Green Bay who keeps an eye on these types of things. As he said, "I thought that you might find it interesting how involved the Packer organization is in the wider prayer movement in greater Green Bay! See below:

National Day of Prayer- Thurs. May 3rd; 7 a.m to 8:40 a.m.
Prayer Breakfast- Riverside Ballroom, 1560 Main St.
Hosted by Mayor Jim Schmitt
Keynote Speaker: Packers defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila

National Day of Prayer Ladies Lunch- Thurs. May 3rd 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
KI Convention Center, 333 Main St.
Hosted by Dona Schmitt
Keynote Speaker: Deanna Favre, wife of Packer QB Brett Favre"

So, if you are in or near GB, or would be interested in participating in either of these events...there ya go.