2017 NFL Week 6: Packers vs. Vikings

The Green Bay Packers dealt the Dallas Cowboys another patented, last-second dagger loss last weekend in Big D. Say it with me (in your best Seinfeld voice): "That's a shame." The heroics of that game have been well documented throughout this last week, so we won't go into them again here. Bottom line is that the Packers are 4-1 and leading the NFC North going into today's game vs. the ViQueens.

Packers QB extraordinaire, Aaron Rodgers, scrambles for a 1st down in last week's winning drive against Dallas.

(Photo: Jim Matthews/USATODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

In today's game, the Pack will face the exact opposite of the situation they had to deal with in Dallas. Where Dallas had a potentially explosive offense (if not contained) and a mediocre defense, Minnesota has perhaps one of the best defenses the Packers have faced so far, but with an offense missing its starting quarterback, top wide receiver and running back. Given that the Packers will be without probably half of its usual starters in the secondary, this scenario is certainly a help.

Safety Morgan Burnett has been ruled out, as have Davon House and Kevin King. There are other issues and missing pieces from the defense, as well; adjustments will need to be made, obviously. Offensively, running back Ty Montgomery looks as if he might get some plays today wearing a flack jacket to protect his broken ribs. But we should expect, after his breakout game last week, that rookie running back Aaron Jones should still get most of the carries out of the backfield. While Jordy Nelson migth be slowed by whatever took him out of the game late down the stretch last week, the emergence of Davante Adams as Rodgers' go-to guy in clutch situations means no drop off. Couple that with the terrific tight end trio of Martellus Bennett, Lance Kendricks and Richard Rodgers and it's a defensive coordinator's worst nightmare. Reports just coming in that for the first time this season, the Pack's starting offensive tackles are good to go: Bryan Bulaga and David Bakhtiari finally get a chance to start in the same game! That's a huge plus.

The Prediction

The offensive firepower of the Packers should once again carry the day. A tough Minnesota defense may contain things for a while, but their offense just doesn't have the ability to keep up with what the Pack will do. The Packers are favored by 3 points at the time of this writing.

We're calling this one Packers 27 - ViQueens 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

2017 NFL Week 1: Packers vs. Seahawks

Today is the day we've been waiting for since the season-and-Super Bowl-run-ending loss in Atlanta, Packers fans...it's the start of a new season and the chance to bring the Lombardi Trophy back home to Lambeau Field where it rightfully belongs.

The NFL schedule-makers have set the Packers quite a test in their first two games, at home against the Seattle Seahawks and on the road versus the Atlanta Falcons...two of the teams, along with the Pack and perhaps another team or two that figure to be in the mix for the NFC Conference Championship. More about today's game in a moment. But first, here's a bit of an addendum to yesterday's Season Prediction post. Here is the overall strength of schedule for each NFL team (based on the final 2016 records of a team's 2017 opponents):

Looking at this strength of schedule, the entire NFC North seems to have one of the lighter schedules in terms of strength of opponent. Well...c'mon. This is the NFL and on any given Sunday, etc. Unless, of course...Cleveland...or Buffalo...or the Jets.

But back to the Pack and the Seahawks today. What do we know? Or at least think we know?

Packers favored by 3

At the time of this writing, the Packers get the benefit of home field advantage in what is otherwise being seen as a toss-up game by pundits and oddsmakers. The Pack has typically taken care of business, including the Seahawks, at Lambeau Field. Of course, over the last few seasons the Pack has also gotten off to slow season starts. This season, the team can't afford that. With the Seahawks and Falcons back to back to start the season, the Packers have to at least split those two games if not outright win both, as we'd all prefer, right? Right!

We have to believe that the Packers offense will put up points, particularly with the addition of Martellus Bennett and Lance Kendricks to the tight end corps, a focused Ty Montgomery in the backfield (who is backed up by all three of the Pack's rookie draft pick runners, just in case), and the best quarterback and wide receiver group in the league. The offensive line is a bit of a question mark in terms of depth. With right tackle Bryan Bulaga ruled out for today's game, a tight end or running back might need to be dedicated to help out that side of the field.

On the defensive side of the ball, that's the big unknown. Apparently Packers management wasn't satisfied with what they had following the preseason and picked up a couple castoffs from other teams to help beef up that side of the ball. Those players seem as if they will be an upgrade, but how much they'll contribute today after only a day or two on the practice field...? Also, it will be interesting to see how well the Pack's upgraded -- but still young -- defensive backfield holds up. The Pack's linebacker corps, assisted by defensive backs Morgan Burnett and Josh Jones playing in the middle sometimes, definitely needs to up its game from last season.

Game Prediction

Overall, expectations are high. What else is new? Anything can happen in a Game 1 situation, particularly with two heavyweights trying to find and establish their identities for the season. The Packers defense has had Seahawk QB Russell Wilson's number for the last few games. That trend needs to continue today. Oh, and for a reality check keep in mind that the outcome of this first game of the season may very well determine home field advantage come playoff time. Yeah...really.

We're calling this game Packers 27 - Seahawks 24.

We hope it's not a down-to-the-wire type of game. But it could be tight and back and forth for most of the game given the calibre of these two teams. Seems as if some strange plays also happen in these duels and just one of those today could be the difference.

But it's a beautiful day in Green Bay and the Pack is ready to roll. Go Pack Go!!!

2016 NFL Week 14 Preview and Prediction: Packers vs. Seahawks

We've had this last week, Packer fans, to revel in a two-game winning streak following our victories over Philadelphia and Houston. After you lose four in a row, yeah, two qualifies as a streak. The Packers were able to do what they needed to do, at home in December against the Texans, to get back to .500 at 6-6. No need to rehash that game here and at this point; it's old news by now, right? It was a good -- and necessary -- win.

So, let's get to the game at hand versus Seattle.

The Packers have a couple stats in their favor: (1) the Packers haven't lost to Pete Carrol at Lambeau Field (if memory serves correctly...which is questionable at this point); and (2) Aaron Rodgers hasn't lost a home game in December since 2009 (ditto the previous qualifier). The Packers may also have weather in their collective favor, as the forecast calls for anywhere from 3-5 inches of snow before and/or during game time. Naturally, it could just as easily work against them. Both teams have to adapt and play. You just hope the Packers are a bit more accustomed to this than are the Seahawks.

If the weather is as forecast, that could certainly put a crimp in the downfield passing game of Aaron Rodgers, although you know he'll take a few shots. But with the Pack's seeming emphasis on short dink-and-dunk type passes, that problem may be somewhat negated. A consistent running game would be helpful...and is not really something the Packers have had much of this season. Expect Ty Montgomery to see a lot of the ball, and perhaps even recent former Seahawk Christine Michael, as well.

QB Aaron Rodgers will be challenged on many fronts vs. the Seahawks.
Photo by Adam Wesley/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wis.
Defensively, the Packers will be without LB Nick Perry and Clay Matthews will likely be limited. The linebacking corps is going to be challenged. We could expect lots of scheming to try to cover up those potential gaps, including the continued use of Morgan Burnett as a bit of a tweener when needed. Mike Pennel just got hit with a four-game suspension so the defensive line takes a bit of a hit there.

The Seahawks, as Voice of the Packers Wayne Larrivee has contended, are the best team in the NFC right now, possibly the NFL, despite the better record by Dallas, for example. At 8-3-1, they certainly have an edge over the Packers it would seem. QB (and former Wisconsin Badger -- Go Badgers!) Russell Wilson is looking like his old young self again, which means problems for the Packers defense. TE Jimmy Graham is arguably the best tight end in the game today. The Seahawks defense, even with the loss of Earl Thomas, can still cause lots of problems for opposing offenses. They are a tough, smack-mouth squad.

The Prediction
At the time of this writing, the Seahawks are favored by 3 points. The Packers need this game to keep their outside shot at the NFC North Division Championship, or at least the playoffs, alive. We don't feel good about this game, Packer fans. The two teams the Packers have beaten to get back to even are nowhere near as good as Seattle. Neither are the Packers right now, unfortunately.

As much as it pains us to say it, we're calling this 24-17 Seahawks.

Still...Go Pack Go!!!

2016 Week #3: Packers vs. Lions Preview and Prediction

The injury bug is hitting teams throughout the NFL early in the 2016 season; some players are out for the season, others for a few games, others perhaps just a game. The latter is the case and cause for concern today with the Green Bay Packers as the season opener at Lambeau Field versus the Detroit Lions is set for kickoff.

As of the time of this writing, Clay Matthews and Morgan Burnett are reported to have both been declared out after the Packers completed their final practice of the week on Saturday morning. Not helpful. Of course, we know that Sam Shields is also still out because of the NFL's concussion protocol; he won't see the possibility of playing time until after the bye week.

Oh, wait...there's more: Letroy Guion and Datone Jones have also been downgraded from questionable to doubtful, meaning the chances of them playing against the Lions is...not great. So, in case you're counting, that's five defensive starters who will not be playing. Ouch.

Wasn't it suppose to be the Lions that had health issues? So much for that notion. Well, OK, they'll be missing some players, too. And we don't have to worry about WR Calvin Johnson any longer. But enough about the Lions.

Aren't we worried about the Packers offense? The one which has seemed pretty out-of-sync for the first two games? Yeah. And now we have to worry about the defense, too? Oy.

The Prediction
We're going to keep this post short and sweet. The Packers are currently favored by 7 points, with the total points listed at 47.5, the second-highest of the week. So oddsmakers are figuring on a fair amount of scoring with the Pack coming out on top comfortably. How do you feel? Yeah, us too.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers and Head Coach Mike McCarthy
are hoping the offense gets in gear against the Lions.
Photo by Mike De Sisti, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
But it's the home opener. QB Aaron Rodgers should have a chip on his shoulder after two mediocre games (or more, going back to next season if we're honest about it). The offense needs to get on the same page and start doing what everyone knows they are capable of doing. Especially on a day when the defense -- with all its missing parts -- might be in need of the offense scoring regularly in order to stay in the game.

We're calling it 24-20 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 8: Packers at Broncos...Only one will be 7-0.

Well, Packers fans...the boys in the Green 'n' Gold (or white, green and gold tonight) have had a week off and time to get healthier before the battle in Denver against the Broncos this evening. Yay. B.J. Raji and Davante Adams should see action, while safety Morgan Burnett will be back in the lineup...finally...giving a big boost to the Packers defense. James Starks is questionable with a hip injury. Ty Montgomery is likely out.


Packers safety Morgan Burnett should return to action tonight.
Photo by Mike De Sisti, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Denver, however, also had their bye week last week, as well. Both teams should come in rested and with game plans well-worked out.

But, getting a healthier Eddie Lacy back into the ground game, plus giving QB Aaron Rodgers someone to stretch the field, i.e., Davante Adams, bodes well as the Pack goes against the league's No. 1-ranked defense.

According to Wayne Larrivee, radio voice of the Green Bay Packers, the Denver Broncos defense is the fastest and best the Packers will face this season. They lead the league in sacks and takeaways, and have four defensive touchdowns, including two pick-6 INT returns by DB Aqib Talib. The cornerbacks are good enough that Denver defensive coordinator Wade Phillips doesn't need to give them safety help, meaning he can sometimes go with seven or eight men at the line of scrimmage. Denver leads the league in sacks as a result.

Some might argue, though, that part of Denver's defensive success is that they really haven't played a very good team yet. I'd say regardless of that that any team that can be unbeaten at this stage of the season -- regardless of quality of opponent -- is doing something right and has to be respected. By the way, this is only the fourth time in NFL history that two teams with at least 6 wins and no losses have met one another.

Turning to Denver's offense, you certainly have to respect QB Peyton Manning, particularly when he gets the time to step up in the pocket to pass. He may not have the arm strength he used to, and he's never had great mobility, be if his offensive line protects him tonight against the Packers' also-stellar pass rush it could set up for a very interesting game. On the other hand, if the Packers' "D" can do what they've done all season, and get pressure on him, the Packers should win this game. No mistaking, Manning has weapons he can leverage offensively. The Packers defense must minimize those offensive opportunities, particularly the two top wide receivers who lead the league in receptions and yardage: 86 catches and more than 1,000 yards receiving combined. However, they only have combined for four touchdowns. The Packers' secondary will be tested if the defensive front doesn't get effective pressure on Manning.

On the Packers side of the ledger, the offense has to display more than they have the last several weeks in particular. They've done enough to win, but without the great performances from the defense generally the Pack might not be at 6-0 right now.

The Prediction
Without further ado, particularly with only about about an hour to gametime, it's time to make our call. A big consideration, among all the others listed here, is that the Packers are 8-1 after the bye under head coach Mike McCarthy, which is the best record in the NFL during that span, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

Some pundits think this will be close, others that Denver is more of a pretender and the Packers will put them in their place. Most all are calling for the Packers to win this game which, frankly, always makes me nervous. The Packers are favored by 3 points. My own take is that I think both teams will be up for this game and want to keep that unbeaten tag. If the Pack play their game and get pressure on Manning while protecting Rodgers, the Pack will prevail. (I know: "Thank you, Captain Obvious!") This could be tight into the fourth quarter. Still...

We're calling it 31-24 Packers over the Broncos.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Chiefs in Week 3 Replay of First AFL-NFL Championship

Well, that's the hook, anyway. The two teams from the very first Super Bowl -- then known as the AFL-NFL Championship -- meet tonight at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI: the Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs. Well, OK, not those exact teams...that game would really look like a rolling MASH unit. Still, on hand tonight will be quite a few of the Packers who actually played in that first championship game 50 years ago. Imagine that. Fifty years ago.

While that is cool enough in itself, it's history...good history: the Packers won. But our concern is more immediate. What's going to happen with this Monday Night Football extravaganza?

Get ready for a show at Lambeau Field tonight.
Photo by Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Here's what we know about the Packers
We know Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is healthy. That's a good thing. A very good thing. Starting RB Eddie Lacy is "probable" tonight, which is an upgrade from his "questionable" status of a few days ago. That means probably limited action. But James Starks can certainly fill the void, as we saw again last week against the Seahawks. In terms of receivers, Davante Adams is also listed as probable. So, again, perhaps limited action. But that means there are opportunities for other receivers. Plus, the Packers have had a week to game-plan for a reduced role for Adams. The receiving corps didn't seem to miss a beat last week while Adams was out. And let's not forget TE Richard Rodgers, who was not only working at his usual spot but also on occasion out of the backfield. There's plenty for the Chiefs to worry about.

We know we are in good shape with our skill players (note that I can say "our" because I am a Packers shareholder...a-hem), but we may have cause for concern at the tackle positions, particularly on the right side where Bryan Bulaga is still out and Don Barclay will have to take on arguably one of the best pass rushers in the NFL, Justin Houston. On the other side, we saw LT David Bakhtiari get speed-rushed a few times last weekend; he's got to hold up better this week. The Chiefs have a good front seven and can cause problems if the Packers O-line doesn't perform well.

On defense, we know that the Pack will be without S Morgan Burnett tonight. He helped a great deal in terms of secondary toughness last week against Seattle, as well as being the defensive backfield "quarterback." Seems as if the secondary is just not as good when Burnett is out of the lineup. Against a very good opposing quarterback such as Alex Smith, the Pack's secondary has to play more like they did last week than in the opener against Chicago.

The Packers are a work in progress and a bit banged up in the third week of the season, but are 2-0 going into a tough, but winnable game at home against a very good opponent, who themselves may be Super Bowl-worthy when it's all said and done.

What we know about the Chiefs
Since this is an inter-conference game, many Packers fans probably don't follow what happens in KC very closely. The Chiefs are 1-1 and have given up as many points as they've scored: 51. We also know the coach used to be a Packers assistant under Mike Holmgren once upon a time. He had a good stint with the Eagles, but didn't get them to the promised land. In Kansas City, he has a a team with a very good defense, particularly up front, a very good quarterback (Smith) and very good running back in Jamaal Charles when he isn't fumbling away the game as he did last week against Denver. This is the third week in a row that the Packers defense will have faced a top-notch running back. Charles is a versatile back, the kind that has often given the Packers defense troubles. Still, the "D" has done pretty well containing those backs the first two weeks; they'll need to do so again tonight.

Our prediction
The Packers are 6-1/2 point favorites. Many think it will be closer than that, and some even think this is a game the Pack could lose given their emotional expenditure in the win against the Seahawks. But the Packers are establishing dominance at home. Aaron Rodgers hasn't thrown an interception at Lambeau since...2012? Amazing.

The Packers get this win. We're calling it 31-24 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers Snatch Defeat from the Jaws of Victory in NFC Championship

Fans of the Green Bay Packers witnessed a game yesterday that will go down in Packers' lore...for all the wrong reasons. The team played 56 minutes of good, not great, football against a Seattle Seahawks team they had on the ropes, waiting for a knockout punch that never came. In the end, the beaten and bruised champ rose from the canvas (or turf, in this case) and wound up delivering the sucker punch that ended the game and the Packers' season. The Packers lost in overtime to the Seahawks, 28-22.

The post-mortem on this game will go on and on. For Packers fans, it will live forever. There is no way of setting this monumental collapse aside. It was (insert hashtag here) an epic fail. The Pack all but had their ticket punched to the Super Bowl in Arizona. But unlike in recent weeks where they could close out a game in the waning minutes, the Packers let Seattle hang around, let them back into the game, and then could not hold on for the win. As a result, Seattle is going to its second straight Super Bowl and the Packers are going home for the off-season to ponder what could have been.

What went wrong?
Where do you start to list the series of apparently little things that all added up to the loss? Here's just one writer's list:

• Mike Daniels' 15-yard taunting penalty after Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix's first interception. Instead of first and goal from the 4-yard line, it was first and goal from the 19.
• Failure to punch the ball in on two runs from the 1-yard line.
• Head coach Mike McCarthy settling -- twice -- for field goals on fourth-and-goal rather than going for the touchdowns.
• Getting only six points off five Seattle turnovers.
• Giving up a touchdown off a fake field goal to reignite the Seahawks' hopes.
• Giving up a third-and-nineteen pass completion for a first down.
• Morgan Burnett's interception with about five minutes remaining when he went to the ground rather than pick up, possibly, another 15 yards of open field and field goal range.
• TE Brandon Bostick's decision to not follow his assigned blocking role on an onside kick but rather to attempt to make a play on the ball instead, leading to a recovery -- and quick go-ahead touchdown -- by Seattle with about 2 minutes left in the game. Oh, the designated "hands" on that side of the field and position was Jordy Nelson. Bostick was supposed to block so Nelson could get the ball.
• Giving up 15 points in 44 seconds to let Seattle take the lead late in the game.
• Allowing Seattle to drive 87 yards in six plays for the winning touchdown in overtime.

These are just a few of the miscues that came back to haunt the Packers.

Lost in all this was the exceptional performance of kicker Mason Crosby who went 5 for 5 on the day, keeping the Packers in the game, including a tying 48-yard field goal with 14 seconds remaining to take the game to overtime. Had the Packers won, Crosby should have been the game's MVP.

Epilogue
A great season for a very good Packers team came to a crashing -- and crushing -- end. The Packers were the better team for most of the game. Or so it seemed. But all those little things that they did or didn't do added up in the end to a loss to a team that was ripe for the picking. Hats off to the Seahawks for never giving up, despite dismal play most of the day. Their coach played to win, the Packers coach played not to lose. We know the rest of the story.

As Wayne Larrivee, radio voice of the Packers noted on radio this morning, anywhere from 25 to 33 percent of this Packers team will be changed for the coming season. That's how it works on average, he said. Some of those players we've come to know and like -- or not -- will be gone. New players will take their place. Whether that new combination will have the makings to be as good a team as this one came to be over the course of the season, only time will tell.

But as Larrivee also noted, the windows of opportunity in the NFL for a Super Bowl run aren't based upon careers, they are based upon seasons. This was a season in which the Packers could have made it to Arizona for the Super Bowl. They would have had a rematch against the New England Patriots, a team they handled in the regular season. A Super Bowl win was perhaps in the cards. But...not.

The Packers, in the end, handed that opportunity to the Seahawks, snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

Packers help Bears hit rock bottom

We were both right and wrong in our preview and prediction of Sunday night's game at Lambeau Field between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears. We were right in projecting the Packers to win. We were right in suggesting the Bears QB Jay Cutler is a veritable head case when it comes to playing the Packers. We were right in predicting a point total of at least 55 points. We were wrong in not projecting that the Pack alone would score 55 points. We were also wrong in thinking that Da Bearz would care about playing a football game. We were wrong about Da Bearz, giving them far too much credit.

While we certainly rejoiced in this thorough 55-14 beat-down of Chicago, a victory of epic proportions in the long history of the oldest rivalry in the NFL, you almost had to feel a bit sad for how far this once proud Chicago franchise seems to have fallen, especially this season. Almost.

But back to the Packers.

QB Aaron Rodgers tied Daryl Lamonica's NFL-record six first-half touchdowns. Combine great play by Rodgers, his offensive line and his receivers (including RB Eddie Lacy) with a flat-out give-up performance by Chicago's defense, and the rout was on early. Randall Cobb was quoted after the game as saying that the feeling going into the game was that if the Pack could get up early the Bears would essentially lay down. The Packers did their part to make that happen and, as a result, so did Da Bearz.

The Packers defense also seemed to be playing at a higher level than usual. Whether that was the brilliant and successful move -- at least on this night -- of linebacker Clay Matthews from the outside to the inside or the apparently stirring pre-game locker room speech to the team by veteran and former Bear, Julius Peppers, we may never know. Let's also not forget the return of Morgan Burnett to the secondary.

But the question for the moment is: are the Packers really this good or Da Bearz this bad?
Given how bad Chicago was last evening, with no passion in their play or performance and a typical horror show by QB Jay Cutler (now 1-11 against the Pack, and O-4 at Lambeau Field), we really don't know if the Packers have finally put it together on both offense and defense. We'll get a glimpse this coming Sunday afternoon when the Eagles come to Green Bay. Lest we forget, the Eagles played at Lambeau last season and went home with a victory. We'll take a closer look at this upcoming game later this week, so please check back for updates.

Until then, Packer fans, just revel in the win last evening. Take pity on your poor Bear fan friends and family members. They're embarrassed for their team. All we can hope for on our end, despite that, is that the organizational ineptitude which has gripped Da Bearz for the last two decades continues. Let's hope they keep trotting out the gift that keeps on giving: Jay Cutler. As long as he's at the helm -- and after having just given him a boatload of money to be their main man, he will be for a long time -- the Packers will be in great shape.

High Draft Picks Failing to Make Impact in Green Bay

The following is a special guest article...

Historically speaking, few teams have had as much consistent success in the NFL draft as the Green Bay Packers. Dating back to before the tenure of current general manager Ted Thompson, the Packers have consistently selected players who have contributed immensely to the prolonged success of the organization.

That is, up until 2011. In 2009 and 2010 particularly, Thompson hit grand slams by selecting Clay Matthews, Bryan Bulaga, B.J. Raji, Morgan Burnett, T.J. Lang, James Starks, and a slew of other players who remain in productive roles with the team to this day. Since then, however, Thompson’s drafting has been far less dependable.

The downturn began in 2011 with the selection of Derek Sherrod at the back end of the first round. Sherrod was supposed to be the heir-apparent to longtime left tackle Chad Clifton, but three and a half seasons and a gruesome broken leg later, Sherrod’s only impact for the Packers has been negative—epitomized by allowing multiple sacks to Seattle in the 2014 season opener.

The next season found the Packers ranking 22nd in total defense—a horrendous drop-off from their top ranking the season previous. Green Bay sought the services of defenders Nick Perry and Jerel Worthy in the first and second rounds, respectively. Perry’s development has yet to come and he has been replaced for now with veteran Julius Peppers. Worthy is no longer on the team, as the Packers cut their losses by trading him to New England for a low-value draft pick.

The Packers again went defensive in 2013, and selected Datone Jones, who, in two and a half seasons, has only 36 tackles and 5.5 sacks. He, like Perry, has failed to solidify a starting role in Dom Capers’ defense despite it being all but handed to him on draft day.

Until the recent signing of Julius Peppers, Clay Matthews had been the only legitimate pass-rushing threat for Green Bay since Cullen Jenkins’ departure after the 2010 season. Defensive linemen like Ryan Pickett and B.J. Raji have been increasingly ineffective in situational roles, while the aforementioned high-profile draftees Perry, Worthy, and Jones have simply busted.

The secondary has been in a constant state of upturn. Casey Hayward, Davon House, Jerron McMillian, M.D. Jennings, and Chris Banjo have all tried to make lasting impacts in Green Bay’s secondary to no avail. The loss of Nick Collins in 2011 is still hurting the backfield of the Packers defense.

In 2014, the Packers—for the third season in a row—drafted a defensive player in the first round, in hopes of getting the defense in balance with the explosive offense. This time the pick was Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, who, aside from some egregious missed tackles, has played well in tandem with Micah Hyde this season. He is off to a better start than the three first-rounders before him, but only time will tell.

As many of the excellent selections Ted Thompson made in ’09 and ’10 reach contract years, it is imperative that reliable, young talent continues to flow into the depth chart. But the days of Thompson’s near-perfect drafting are quickly and clearly becoming distant memories.

About The Author:
Ron is the lead editor of FantasyFootballOverdose.Com – prime source of NFL news and rumors. You can follow his NFL updates at this Facebook page.

Packers 2014 Draft Review: Rounds 1-3

While the actual NFL football season is still several months away, the NFL Draft marks the unofficial start of the season for many fans. It sure gets the juices of Packers fans going.

To the surprise of some, GM Ted Thompson -- Trader Ted -- didn't make a move through the first three rounds, choosing instead to stay pat with the team's assigned picks. So, what do we make of the Pack's picks through the first two days? From this vantage point, we're pleased. Let's take a look at the selections, shall we...

ROUND	NUMBER	PLAYER	POSITION	SCHOOL
1	21	Ha Ha Clinton-Dix	S	Alabama
2	53	Davante Adams	WR	Fresno State
3	85	Khyri Thornton	DT	Southern Miss
3	98 (compensatory)	Richard Rodgers	TE	California

Analysis on each player can be found here; kudos to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for providing a great overview of the newest Packers.

What's our take?
As noted earlier, we think the Packers have generally had a good start to the draft. Getting Clinton-Dix, one of the top safeties available, means there is finally a good complement to Morgan Burnett. Perhaps the Pack's safeties will actually record an interception this season. Plus, Clinton-Dix is physical. Being given Charles Woodson's old number -- 21 -- is hopefully a precursor of things to come.

With Adams at wide receiver, the Packers added the nation's reception leader from 2013. He knows how to find the endzone, too. Over the last two seasons, he scored 38 touchdowns with Fresno State. As one pundit stated after the pick, the Packers replaced James Jones with a better version of James Jones. If you were happy with Jones (at least, most of the time), we think you'll be happy with Adams. Our guess is Aaron Rodgers will be, too.

Thornton may have been an unknown commodity to most Packer fans, unless you happen to reside in the South, of course. He was a fifth-year senior and team captain at Southern Miss. The story on him is that he is an athlete. At 6'3" and 304 pounds, he is the type of defensive tackle that could spell relief for B.J. Raji and Ryan Pickett, and perhaps be the replacement for one or the other down the road...with Pickett the more likely given his age.

To say we'll have fun with the Rodgers to Rodgers pass-catch duo is an understatement. Plus, both of the Rodgers' attended California...synchronicity! Rodgers (that will be Richard, not Aaron) has played at both blocking tight end and inside receiver. He has versatility, something the Packers value highly in all their players and particularly their receivers. He's not exactly a burner speed-wise (not too many tight ends are), but at 6'4" and about 260, and apparently with very good hands, he should add some needed competition and depth at the tight end spot for the Pack, who will likely be without Jermichael Finley going forward.

So, bottom line: good job, Ted. Can't wait to see what you do today.

At least for now, the remaining selections for the Packers look like this:
Round 4 (121st overall)
Round 5 (161st overall)
Round 5 (176th overall) -- Compensatory
Round 6 (197th overall)
Round 7 (236th overall)

Go Pack Go!!!

Week 2: Packers vs. Redskins Preview

Fans of the Green Bay Packers have had the last week to wail and nash our collective teeth over the loss (again...third in a row) to the San Francisco 49ers. It's another week, another game, and another read-option quarterback who may -- or may not -- give the Packers defense trouble. In the season home opener at Lambeau Field today, the Packers will see if they can keep QB Robert Griffin III and the Washington Redskins from having them start the season at 0-2.


This photo of Lambeau Field is courtesy of TripAdvisor
If that happens, Packer fans, the road to the Super Bowl becomes very difficult indeed. According to people who's job it is to calculate such odds (that would not be me, just to be clear), only 22 NFL teams since 1990 (11.5 percent) have made the playoffs after starting 0-2. Only three teams that opened the season 0-2 have won the Super Bowl: the 1993 Dallas Cowboys, the 2001 New England Patriots and the 2007 New York Giants.

So, is this a must win for the Packers? If you have to ask, you shouldn't be reading this article...in fact, the very task of reading this article would likely be beyond your abilities...move along, please.

But don't fret, Packer fans. According to an article by Bob McGinn, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's uber-Packers beat reporter, at least one unidentified NFL team executive actually upgraded the Pack after last week's loss to the Niners. That exec said: "After watching that game I'd be shocked if the Packers don't go 12-4. I was guessing they were a 10-6 team before that. They were very consistent on offense, like they always are. But the difference this year from last year was the passion that the defense played with. I thought they played hard on defense."

Was this guy watching the same game as the rest of us? Watching the secondary get torched for more than 400 passing yards by the Tattooed Wonder, Colin Kaepernick? Apparently, he liked the defensive line and acknowledged the big hit the secondary took without S Morgan Burnett and nickel back Casey Hayward in the lineup. Still, this guy says the Niners will beat the Packers in the NFC Championship and go on to win the Super Bowl. One man's view.

McGinn had another NFL personnel man evaluate the Packers relative to the league. McGinn states in his article that, "By his estimation, seven of the 32 teams have no chance for a winning season. At the same time, he ranked Green Bay among nine teams with a chance to win the championship." So...the Packers have that going for them. Which is nice.

But all that conversation seems a bit premature when you're 0-1 and need to get to 1-1 today. So, let's just focus on that for a moment, shall we?

Keys to the Game

Let's start on offense for the Pack. The Packers offense is not a problem. Let's state the obvious. The revamped offensive line held its own against perhaps the best defensive line in the NFL last week. There were a few breakdowns, sure. But the young tackles performed well, which was a concern. They still need to create some running room for Eddie Lacy and the other backs, however. With the call for a chance of rain for the game today, being able to sustain drives on the ground, and keep the ball out of the opposing quarterback's hands, will be a definite plus. QB Aaron Rodgers and receivers will do what they need to do, regardless of conditions, especially against a somewhat porous Redskins defense. Last season, their defense gave up 281.9 passing yards per game, 30th in the league. They were also dead last in third down defensive efficiency. While Washington has changed both its safeties, this bodes well for the Packers to rack up yards and put up points, with or without a sufficient running game today.

As to the Packers defense, it's not known at the time of this writing whether S Morgan Burnett will be seeing any playing time today or not. He did practice a bit this week and was testing out the hamstring. No doubt this will be a game-time decision. Let's hope he can be on the field at least some of the time because we saw last week what happened without him...not pretty. The Packers defensive front must play as aggressively as they did last week and there's no reason to suspect they won't. Given RGIII's shaky start in the 'Skins season opener, and the desire to still protect his rebuilt leg, we'd expect to see more passing from him than running. He's got a heckuva arm, although his mechanics were terrible for about three-fourths of the game last week. If the Packers secondary plays as badly as it did against the Niners, it could be another shoot-out. We don't want that. But at this stage of the season, anything is possible.

For Packers special teams performances, the return game is still the weak link, with some bad decision-making on display at San Francisco. You have to figure that will get cleaned up. Having P Tim Masthay handle the kickoffs is a very good thing; he booms 'em and this perhaps gives K Mason Crosby less to worry about...just make the dang field goals!

Prediction

To the sound of the drum roll, we predict it will be: Packers 34 - Redskins 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers lose -- again -- to the 49ers

This is getting old.

For the third consecutive time, the Green Bay Packers lost to the San Francisco 49ers. We're beginning to get a sense of how Da Bearz fans feel when playing and losing to the Pack time after time. Not a great feeling.

Pick your reason for the loss: two turnovers, no pass rush, no coverage by the secondary, no tackling by the secondary, penalties, no running game, failure to cover the 49ers primary receiver, lack of adjustments at halftime, a blown call by the ref giving the Niners an extra down on which they scored a touchdown...take your pick. Lots of blame to go around on this one.

Coming off last season's embarrassing playoff performance, the Packers were determined not to let 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick run all over them is he did in that game. Well, he didn't. Instead, he threw for more than 400 yards and three touchdowns. In his last two games against the Packers, Kaepernick and his tattoos have accounted for more than 900 yards. He's been a one-man Packers wrecking crew. And he will be until the Packers somehow learn to pass rush, cover receivers, and tackle.

Were there any positive takeaways from the game for the Pack? The fact that the team was still in the game with a chance to win at the end could be seen as a plus. The fact that the Packers' young tackles held up fairly well against Pro Bowl caliber defensive ends, that was good. That Aaron Rodgers and his receivers were generally clicking was good, although James Jones was missing in action and Jermichael Finley had a butterfingers moment that led to an interception. Tim Masthay's booming kickoffs are a new and real weapon. Johnny Jolly getting the start on the defensive line was nothing short of amazing.

But the lack of discipline, the lack of effective defense, these are causes for concern. One assumes that the coaching staff will get the discipline issues resolved. Quickly. Head coach Mike McCarthy doesn't put up with that type of thing from his players. As for the overall defensive ineffectiveness, it certainly had to do in part with a few key players, notably Morgan Burnett and Casey Hayward, being unavailable in the defensive backfield. But the guys that were there...how they were unable to cover and how they were unable to make tackles...it could be another long season on defense, folks, if that isn't rectified and soon. As for lack defensive adjustments throughout the game, let's hope defensive coordinator Dom Capers isn't a deer in the headlights as seemed to be the case sometimes last season.

It's early in the season, obviously. No time to panic. Just time to be critical, watchful, and hopeful.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers lose to both Seahawks and injury bug

Friday evening's preseason game versus the Seattle Seahawks at Lambeau Field was not a great one from the Green Bay Packers perspective. There was the final score, a 17-10 loss. Which is not a biggie in the preseason. Of more concern was the level of play and the rash of injuries that hit the Packers.

Let's start with the latter first.

Injury report
Morgan Burnett -- the Pack's starting safety and signal caller in the defensive backfield -- was lost to a hamstring injury. Inside linebacker Brad Jones, who registered a sack on the elusive Russell Wilson, also left with a hamstring injury. Cornerback Casey Hayward re-aggravated the hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined for most of training camp. RB DuJuan Harris, who got his first action of the preseason after being sidelined throughout camp, left during the first series after re-injuring his knee. All week, head coach Mike McCarthy was saying how excited he was to see Harris back in action. So much for that. OLB Jarvis Reed also sustained a knee injury.

While all of these injuries are a concern, of course, there is more depth at linebacker and running back than there is at safety. If Burnett is lost for any amount of time, M.D. Jennings, Jerron McMillian, or perhaps free agent Chris Banjo (who was in on several plays last night) will be called upon to fill the gap. A veteran free agent could also be added. The Packers could get by, but Burnett's return is key to the defensive backfield's performance.

These new injuries, of course, are on top of the current injury list: Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Matthew Mulligan, Andy Mulumba, Tramon Williams, James Nixon and Jarrett Bush all sat out last night's game with injuries.

The season opener against the 49ers is just two weeks away. The Packers need to get all these guys healthy, and soon. With them, the Pack is a force to be reckoned with every week. Without them, the team becomes average.

Backup quarterback still up for grabs
Coach McCarthy was trying to get some clarity on the backup quarterback situation last night. He gave Graham Harrell every chance to solidify a hold on the number two spot behind Aaron Rodgers. Harrell worked for a good period behind the first team offense. His performance was less than stellar, although to be fair the penalties and entire lack of rhythm exhibited by the offense at that time were not totally Harrell's fault. His lack of passing precision downfield, however, was. He did not inspire confidence, despite his supposed knowledge of the offensive scheme.

Veteran QB Vince Young, though, did inspire confidence despite his lack of knowledge of the Packers' system at this point. He led two series in the second half, including an 11-play, 80-yard touchdown drive. In addition, Young displayed the ability to break the pocket when needed; he scrambled three times for 39 yards. He's got the legs and he's got the instincts that Harrell doesn't have.

B.J. Coleman did mop up duty at the quarterback position and didn't generate much with the backups.

The early guess from this pundit is that Coleman gets cut or put on the practice squad, while Young and Harrell make the regular roster. And while the game plan for Young would of necessity be sparse early in the season compared to Harrell, the best option to win -- if, God forbid, something happens to Rodgers -- is for Young to be the first man in.

Level of overall play was not good
While the Packers were not as flat as for the first game, they didn't show the same level of performance as they did in beating the Rams last weekend. Of course, the Seahawks are much better than the Rams and it showed. They gave the Packers problems on both sides of the ball last night, despite the defense registering several sacks on 'hawks quarterbacks.

While it shouldn't be a concern given the weapons available, the fact that the Packers number one offensive unit has yet to score a touchdown is at least starting to be a discussion point. The unit moves the ball but stalls out without crossing the goal line. That leaves things on the leg of kicker Mason Crosby, who has been less than steady. You know this will get worked out. But it would be nice to see some TD production clicking with the first unit. So far, we haven't seen it.

RB Eddie Lacy wasn't able to get any running room last night. Even the best back needs blocking, and that wasn't readily present particularly with the backup line operating. On defense, there were some good individual moments, but there were often huge gaps up the middle on both running and receiving plays.

Bottom line: the Packers still have a lot to get straightened out before the start of the season. They also need to get their key players healthy again. That would go a long way to making things click.

Packers send Vikes home with a loss

It was a game the Packers needed to have coming off the disappointing loss the week before against the Giants. And they got it: a 23-14 win over the ViQueens at Lambeau Field on Sunday.

It might not have been the prettiest game they've played this season (in fact, other than the Houston game, there haven't been many of those games at all), but it was a hard-earned win by a team that was simply better than its opponent, despite missing about eight of the preferred starters on offense and defense. The ViQueens, with WR Percy Harvin on the sidelines, had no offense other than RB Adrian Peterson...which isn't all bad, admittedly. In fact, Peterson was the Minnesota offense, rushing for more than 200 yards, with about 150 of those yards coming on just three runs. The lack of tackling ability on the part of more than a few Packers' defenders helped contribute to that total but make no mistake about it: with a better quarterback and some wide receivers...well...talk to me when the 'Queens get that in place, will you?

Back to the Pack...

One of the good things to come out of the game was the rushing attack of the Packers, which saw James Starks and Alex Green combine for 123 yards on the day. One of the game's two touchdowns for the Pack even came on the ground, a 22-yarder by James Starks; it was only the third rushing TD of the season for the Pack. It's all a long way from Peterson's 210 yards, but it was more than enough to keep the Minnesota defenders from launching full-out rushes on QB Aaron Rodgers with every snap; they had to stay honest against the run and that helped open up the pass. As a result, Rodgers was 27 for 35 and 286 yards with one touchdown and one interception (that was as good as a punt on an ill-advised flea flicker type play).

A second and unexpected positive for the offense was the workman-like play of undrafted rookie offensive lineman, Don Barclay. Barclay was forced to take over the right tackle slot after starter T.J. Lang went out with an ankle injury. Lang, of course, was playing in that spot after a move from his starting left guard spot after regular right tackle starter Bryan Bulaga was lost for the season. (Still with me?) Yes, this is how thin and precarious it has gotten on the offensive line for the Packers. In fact, there is currently only one other lineman available should any of the current players go down, another undrafted rookie, Greg Van Roten. Still, Barclay wound up holding his own and, truth be told, the Packers actually ran to his side of the formation quite often in the second half.

Another plus for the Packers was that it appeared (fingers and toes still crossed!) that kicker Mason Crosby may have finally gotten the monkey off his back with his field goal issues. He was three for four on the day, missing only a 50+-yarder. Granted, he clunked his first kick off the left upright, but it went in. And it seemed on a 4th and 7 that -- after missing his second attempt on the day -- his head coach had lost faith in him; McCarthy called Crosby back to the sideline and was going to go for it until Minnesota got confused and had to call a timeout. It was during that timeout that apparently McCarthy reconsidered his decision and sent his kicker out...one more time. Crosby made it. And later, he made a third kick that was the "dagger" on the day, putting the Pack up by 9 points and making any comeback possibility by the 'Queens next to nil. Good for Crosby. He had a huge smile on his face and teammates were celebrating with him. It might just have been what the doctor ordered in order for Crosby to once again begin doing what he's paid very well to do: make field goals.

On defense, the negatives primarily centered around the Packers' inability to get Peterson on the ground. Now, lots of teams have that issue. But any time you give up 210 yards on 21 carries to a back -- even of Peterson's calibre -- you know that something is not right with the tackling ability of your defense. This was a problem last year and it's an issue that has seemingly re-emerged. It needs to get corrected, whether it's your starters or backups on the field.

One definite area of improvement for the Pack this season, however, is the play of the defensive backs. Granted, they really didn't have too many threats to cover yesterday and they certainly were not going against a top-tier quarterback in Christian Ponder. But when they didn't hand off to Peterson, Minnesota had no offense to speak of. The Packers' defensive backs had receivers covered all day long. S Morgan Burnett, in particular, did a tremendous job, coming up with two picks on the day, including one in the endzone to end a promising 'Queens drive.

The Pack needed to get the game in the win column and they did. With the Lions losing at the end of regulation to the Colts and Da Bearz losing in overtime to the fomer Wisconsin Badgers Russell Wilson-led Seattle Seahawks, the Packers are in first place in the NFC North. Despite being tied at 8-4 with Chicago, the Packers are technically in first place by virtue of holding the tiebreaker against Da Bearz.

With a win against the hapless Lions at Lambeau Field on the horizon this coming Sunday evening, the game against Chicago the following week at Soldier Field could very well determine who wins the NFC North. The Packers are hurt and may get a few players back. But the way the season is going, the team will lose a few yet, as well. So the team is pretty much what you see. In many ways, coach McCarthy and his staff have once again done an amazing job keeping this team winning despite all the setbacks, as they did in 2010. The difference, as one pundit pointed out, was that in that year most of the injuries were done by this point in the season and players were actually starting to return. This season, injuries are still occurring that are affecting lineups on the field. Beyond that, who knows?

Let's enjoy the win...a good 29th birthday present for Aaron Rodgers...and something to keep us fans yearning for what's to come.

Packers vs. Redskins Preview

The Green Bay Packers go into Sunday's game with the Washington Redskins as a wounded team. A rash of injuries beginning in game #1 has led any number of pundits who were onboard the Packers Super Bowl train to now say...well, maybe not. Two starters, RB Ryan Grant and S Morgan Burnett, are done for the year. LB Nick Barnett is out for Sunday's game and may be done for the season pending the decision on wrist surgery. Barnett Tweeted Saturday afternoon that, "Just finished another scan.. We are getting very close to putting together a plan... Meet with dr.. So.. Things are getting closer". Hmmm...

Other injured starters and key backups on both sides of the ball mean the eight-cylinder engine is now firing on six (not exactly a football metaphor, but you get the point). LB Brandon Chillar, FB Quinn Johnson, CB Sam Shields are all listed as out for Sunday, as well. T Mark Tauscher is listed as doubtful, but most reports are projecting rookie Bryan Bulaga will get the start. To fill the other spots, such players as Desmond Bishop, Charlie Peprah and others who usually get their playing time on special teams will be called upon to fill mighty big shoes. It's their chance to show what they can do. And it will likely be that way for a while. Bishop, for his part, says he's ready.

As the Pack goes into a stretch of games starting with an improved Washington team, followed by Miami and Minnesota at Lambeau, then at the Jets, and finally back home to face the Cowboys before heading into their bye week, this game shapes up as a rather pivotal game. If the Packers can play even a semblance of a complete game on offense, they should win this game against the 'skins. Because it's likely going to take lots of points to do so given the state of the defense.

With a depleted secondary and linebacking corps, the Packers are exposed against Washington's underneath passing game using their tight ends, as well as the downfield passing game when QB Donovan McNabb wants to take his shots with their limited wide receiver corps. And, let's not forget the problem that the Packers have trying to corral scrambling quarterbacks. McNabb has generally played well against the Packers in the past and there is no reason to suspect he won't play well Sunday. The question is whether he'll have an emotional letdown after the 'skins big victory in Philly last weekend.

Washington comes in much healthier than do the Packers. The only starter out for the 'skins is RB Clinton Portis. DT Albert Haynesworth will also reportedly miss the game; his younger brother, Lance, was killed in a motorcycle accident late this last week. (Our sincere condolences to the Haynesworth family.)

The current line on the game has the Packers favored by 2-1/2 points. This is a difficult game to predict given the Packers' narrow victory at home over the Lions last weekend. Yes, the Lions are an improved team. But the Pack played very poorly in almost every phase of the game. Fortunately, the Packers were finally able to get a grind-it-out running game going to eat up the clock at the end to preserve the victory. According to all reports and comments from coaches and players alike, the feeling in the locker room afterward was one where they had to be reminded that they won the game. Perhaps that will be the motivation they need to start playing the type of football they are capable of playing, and which we have yet to see this season. Even with the injuries, players need to step up. Coaches have made it clear they are not going to change schemes because of who is and who isn't available. Do we really buy that?

The Pack will have to make to do. Whether that will be good enough to get them a win in Washington or not...?

Check here for the complete Packers "Dope Sheet" on the match up.

Check back here Sunday morning to get my final prediction. This is one I definitely need to sleep on.

Packers starting to get thin

No, Packer fans, we're not talking about some new diet regimen in the Pack's dining facility. We're addressing the fact the the roster of the Green Bay Packers is starting (continuing?) to take some hits.

Obviously, we're aware of the injuries which have carried over from last season: Al Harris, Atari Bigby, etc. Then the Pack loses Ryan Grant in the first game of the season for the season. Ditto for the perpetually-injured Justin Harrell. Rookie D-lineman Mike Neal has yet to really be available for a game. LB Brandon Chillar has been dinged up. Rookie safety Morgan Burnett was lost for the season in the game versus Detroit. And, of course, Johnny Jolly was suspended for the season before he even got a chance to get injured.

So analysts are now making the argument that the Packers' team that many thought would be ready to take a step toward the Super Bowl -- some even going so far as to say the Packers were the favorites to win the Super Bowl -- is not the team on the field now...and that changes the dynamics considerably.

Yes, even without Grant, the Pack still has a potent offense although they have yet to really establish any consistency over four quarters. But it's the defense that is starting to look thin.
Especially now that reports indicate that LB Nick Burnett could be lost for the season for the second time in three years. He's seeking a second opinion on an injured wrist so nothing final yet.

But with all the recent clamor among Packer fans over the fact that GM Ted Thompson hasn't gone after any running back help, i.e., Marshawn Lynch, we may lose sight of the fact that it's the defense that is looking vulnerable from a roster standpoint at the moment. (Oh, by the way, there is a report by Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that the Packers were in fact heavily involved in discussions with Buffalo to work a deal for Lynch. See that article for the complete details.)

So, while the Pack will be getting Harris and Bigby back in a couple weeks there's no saying exactly what that will mean. What will they be able to do and how quickly can they get up to game speed?

It's still early in the season and the Packers sit atop the NFC North with that bunch from south of the Border (that would be Chicago for the uninformed and Midwesternly-geographically-challenged). But Minnesota may -- may -- have gotten better with the acquisition today of WR Randy Moss. Either the current Packer players will need to step up if more of the starters go down...or...Thompson will need, despite his tendencies not to want to do so, to pull the trigger on a deal or deals to bolster the defense.

A quarter of the way into the season things are getting slightly more iffy than they were when the season started.

P.S. We're running a poll for the next 7 days about what you think the Packers should do in terms of their roster. You'll find it in the righthand column. Let's hear from you!

Packers - Bills preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go Pack Go!!!

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

Packers - Seahawks preseason game preview

It's less than two hours to kickoff for the second game of the preseason, Packers vs. Seahawks. And, to be honest, this isn't really a preview as much as an overview. Hope that works for you.

What to look for tonight? Well, Coach McCarthy says that most all players are available for tonight's game, although in fact neither RB Kregg Lumpkin or RB James Starks made the trip. And even though Ryan Grant came back from his concussion of last weekend to practice this week, and will play tonight, expect most carries to go to backups Brandon Jackson and free-agent rookie Quinn Porter. That will be good to see. Porter is raw, but shows flashes. Need to see what he can really do in extended play. This may be the best opportunity he gets, as next Thursday's game at Lambeau versus the Colts is technically the dress rehearsal game for the starters. Game #4 is a grab bag. If Porter is going to legitimately challenge for a roster spot he needs to make an impression tonight.

As for the rest of the offense, no worries at this point. OK, there are the offensive line questions but it already is in better shape than last season. And there is a distinct possibility that rookie Bryan Bulaga will beat out Daryn Colledge to start at left guard.

So let's move on to defense, where there are indeed questions.

Now, let's not expect to see much in the way of scheming and blitzing tonight. The Packers are definitely holding their cards close in the preseason. So if it doesn't seem very exciting, it's not. Might see some flashes of things in the next game when the starters get more extended play, but don't look for anything too exciting this evening...still pretty vanilla.

The pass rush is something that was non-existent last weekend. Need to see who is able to get pressure tonight. Without Clay Matthews last week (and without him again tonight), the Pack had nothing in that department. And will Justin Harrell (who is listed as questionable for tonight because of his ongoing back problems) actually make an appearance? And how will second-year player B.J. Raji hold the point at nose tackle this evening?

In the defensive backfield, Al Harris will not play nor is it likely that Charles Woodson will see action. So Will Blackmon, Pat Lee, rookie Morgan Burnett and others in the backfield will gets lots of exposure...good or bad.

As for special teams that haven't been special in a long, long time...well, the coverage and return units are still works in progress. Need to see if one of the punters begins to separate himself from the other this evening; so far, they seem about even. Also still need to see who will emerge as reliable and productive punt and kick returners.

Well, Packer fans, that's the overview. Will do a recap tomorrow.

Go Pack Go!!!

Williams accepts Pack's offer

Cornerback Tramon Williams, according to reports, had verbally agreed to the Packers' restricted free agent tender offer prior to the Monday deadline. But apparently because the required paperwork wasn't yet in place, his "signing" wasn't showing up on the NFL's transaction wire either Tuesday or Wednesday.

Safety Atari Bigby, however, has yet to sign and it is being reported that sources say he is prepared to have a training camp hold out to get a new contract. Perhaps sensing this situation with Bigby, the Packers moved up into the third round of the NFL Draft to select Morgan Burnett. With Bigby absent from the voluntary workouts, Burnett has been getting a lot of work in and has impressed the head coach. "I see Burnett as a very natural, instinctive football player," coach Mike McCarthy is quoted in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as having stated recently. "Things come very easy for him. He's a good communicator. He's a very fluid player in space. His athletic ability and the instincts, he picks up coaching very well."

McCarthy also told reporters that the team is as deep at safety as it's been since he's been at the helm. The Packers are also waiting for (the seemingly always-injured) Will Blackmon and Derrick Martin to return from their injuries of last season and get back in the mix. Depth is good. Considering how little leverage Bigby has you have to wonder why he feels it's to his advantage to not sign his tender and/or holdout. Ah...right...agent Drew Rosenhaus. That might explain it.

You can read a bit more about all these bits and pieces here.

Packers Draft Day 2 Review

With less than an hour to go before the start of the final day of the NFL Draft marathon, rounds 4 through 7, you would do well to read Bob McGinn's (Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel Packers beat writer) article reviewing the Packers' draft picks so far, along with who they didn't take that was available, what the likelihood of new player impact might be, and some of the thinking that might be operating going into these last rounds.

The Packers enter today with four picks remaining. The Packers traded their lone 4th round pick along with the second of their two 3rd round picks as part of the deal to move up to get S Morgan Burnett. They have two picks in round 5 (#154 and #169), a 6th rounder (#193) and one 7th round pick (#230). In Thompson's comments, as reported by McGinn, he didn't rule out trading into the 4th round if there was a player he wanted. Shouldn't be surprising. Anything in the draft is possible.

GM Ted Thompson is known for being able to find a few gems in late rounds, so let's hope that's the case today. As McGinn points out in his article, 2nd round pick Mike Neal still does not likely fill the pass rusher need which almost everyone -- including the Packers -- said was a need going into the draft. He might develop into that, but right now he is projected to be one of the back ups on the D-line. A pass rushing diamond in the rough would be a plus today. As would a few other players mentioned in my prior post regarding the end of Draft Day 2.

The Packers believe they are very close to getting back to the big game. With a few pieces in the right spots, it's all right there. And keep in mind that there will be a plethora (look it up!) of post-draft street free agent signings as well. Those players typically are long shots. But for a needed spot, such as punter, you might just find a keeper.

Let's see what shakes out of the tree today.