2024 NFL Week 9: Packers vs. Lions Preview & Prediction

The Lions come to Lambeau.

But first, a quick recap of last weekend's win at Jacksonville. Real quick. Because I was traveling and unable to actually see the game. (I know, I know...) Only heard afterwards that QB Jordan Love left the game with a groin injury and backup extraordinaire Malik Willis stepped in and implemented a game-winning field goal drive in the closing seconds. Kicker Brandon McManus booted his second game-winning field goal since being signed to the Packers a few weeks ago. In other words, a win. And that's what it's all about.

The Packers are now 6-2 and the above-mentioned 6-1 Detroit Lions visit Lambeau Field today with the NFC North lead on the line, as well as potential playoff seedings down the road. Not a disaster if the Pack drops this one. But we all know a win is better than a loss no matter at what point of the season.

A blast from the past: Packers running back Ryan Grant takes it to the Lions in 2007 at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 34-13. The running game will factor strongly into today's game as windy and rainy weather is expected and QB Jordan Love may be limited in his mobility.

(Photo by Rick Wood / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

The Preview

Arguably, the two top teams in the NFC face off at Lambeau Field in Green Bay today for the first of their two divisional games. Both come into this game on winning streaks; the Packers have won four straight games, the Lions five. So something will give there.

Both teams have injuries at key positions. The Lions top defensive player, DE Aidan Hutchinson, is out for the season after suffering a broken leg against Dallas a couple weeks ago. The Packers QB, Jordan Love, after sustaining a sprained MCL in his left knee in the season opener and missing two games, last week sustained a groin injury during the game at Jacksonville and had to be replaced by backup Malik Willis who has done nothing but win in his three appearances for the Pack. Love is listed as questionable and a game-time decision. Also listed as questionable for the Packers are CB Jaire Alexander (knee), RB Josh Jacobs (ankle) and cornerback Corey Ballentine (ankle). C Josh Myers (wrist) is doubtful to play and S Evan Williams (hamstring) is out. Myers being out will require a shift of players along the O-line and that could be of benefit to Detroit.

The Lions have top-level, tough, offensive and defensive units and are a reflection of their head coach, Dan Campbell. They have been putting up points behind QB Jared Goff. Getting pressure on him today will be key to the Packers being in and winning this game. One point of note is that (if memory serves) this is Goff's first outdoor game this season. And the conditions are not going to be conducive (according to weather forecasts) even to a QB such as Love who plays outdoors most of the time. This could also open up opportunities for the Pack's very opportunistic defense to generate a takeaway or two, which could be the difference in today's game. But the Packers defense also needs to be on-guard against the Lions trick plays; no team does them more often — or goes for first downs on fourth downs — like Detroit. Be ready!

Regardless of Love's mobility today, the O-line is going to need to keep him upright and in the pocket so he can make his reads and on-target throws. And if Love can't go today, Willis — and a separate game plan — will have to step up as he has in all three of his prior appearances. That effort, for either quarterback, will be aided greatly by having a balanced run-pass game plan and giving the ball to RB Josh Jacobs to chew up yardage and the clock as often as circumstances allow.

Bottom line is that this game will be a grinder, especially for the Packers. Need to prevent turnovers and generate a takeaway or two. With a bye next weekend, the Pack can leave it all on the field today and have an extra week to get healthy.

The Prediction

At the time of this writing, the Lions are favored by 2-1/2 over the Packers with the over-under set at 45-1/2 points. Both sound about right. And, really, who are we to argue?

We think the weather will hold down scoring a bit, which seems to be factored into the total points for the over-under.

We're calling it Packers 24 - Lions 23.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Vikings: two out of three isn't bad

When it comes to this regular season's games between the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings, it's been a draw. Each team has won at home. Vikes' RB Adrian Peterson has been his superhuman self in both games, rushing for 409 yards combined...nearly as much as the Packers' leading rusher for the entire season. True (look it up!). Aaron Rodgers has been his stellar self in both games. His counterpart, Christian Ponder, was cold in the first game and quite good in the second, arguably accounting for the difference in that second game. (Well, that and the strip of Rodgers as he was attempting to throw which was eventually turned into 7 points for the Vikes. When the margin of victory is a last-second field goal to make the final margin 3 points...well, we all know turnovers can make the difference between a win and a loss.)

A view on the defensive needs
That's a very brief review of two hard-fought football games. What's on store for tonight's Wildcard game? Likely, more of the same. Figure Peterson to rack up big yards despite the Packers insistence that they will not let him run wild as in the first two games. Good luck with that. He may or may not get 200 yards. But if the Packers want to stay in control of this game, it needs to go more of the way of Game 1 in the series and less like Game 2. In the first, Peterson got big yards. But about 150 yards of his 210 yard total came on just three runs. In the second game, his 199 yards came on more than 30 carries. That difference allowed the Packers in the first game to put a lot of pressure on Ponder to win the game. He couldn't, and in fact had a very poor quarterback rating overall. In the second game, the Pack did not pressure Ponder and Ponder performed very well.

We're not sure which Ponder we'll see tonight or, in fact, how much of him we'll see tonight. The latest reports are that he's suffering elbow bursitis in his throwing arm from an injury sustained in last week's game, and might actually have to have it drained before the game. Reports say the team will work him out a few hours before the game to see how he looks. Given the temperature tonight, you can't imagine bursitis is going to help Ponder's passing game any. He has been performing better down the stretch than earlier in the season, but the Packers must get pressure on him if he plays. That pressure has to come from more than just LB Clay Matthews. With the Packers getting Charles Woodson back for this game, expect schemes to bring Woodson and others to pressure Ponder. It also has to be the case, unlike last week, that when the ViQueens are in third-and-long, that the Packers rush more than three linemen. Failure to do that last week burned the Pack on more than one occasion. They have to bring a rush or, given time, Ponder may again make plays...if he's able to play. If Ponder can't start or finish the game, back up Joe Webb was getting practice reps this week just in case. You can read more on Ponder's status here.

Pack needs to get up early
One of the real keys to this game will be a fast start by the Packers on offense. They need to get up on Minnesota early, by 10-14 points, and have the 'Queens play from behind. That will put the ball more in the hands of Ponder and not allow Minnesota to merely hand off every play to Peterson. If the Packers are able to do this, a victory should be in hand.

Getting up early should be possible especially considering that for the first time since Week 4 of the season all of the Pack's top four receivers will be available...and healthy. Combine the multiple wide receiver options with the rejuvenated play of TE Jermichael Finley and the steady running game being contributed by Alex Green, DuJuan Harris and Ryan Grant, and the Packers have the advantage.

The Pack must avoid turnovers and giving up the big play. Tackling has to be an emphasis, something they have not excelled in when playing the Vikes. Special teams play also has to be as good as it has been for most of the season. Again, last week's game saw the return teams allow Minnesota to start in far too good field position most times; a short field is not something you want to hand to Adrian Peterson.

Packers' kicker Mason Crosby seems to have put his struggles aside; he's 4 for 4 the last two games. May that continue. Kicking conditions will not exactly be ideal tonight. But Crosby has to come through when called upon. Let's hope the game doesn't come down to a field goal. Because the ViQueens have a good young kicker on their side, as well.

The prediction
The Packers are favored by 7-1/2 points. The game is at home, outdoors. The ViQueens have not won an outdoor game all season long. Everything points to a tough game, but a Packers win. The Packers have to play as they are capable of playing and not just think they'll win because of the Lambeau Field advantage. In fact, when you look at those stats, the Packers are 2-4 at home in the last six playoff games held at Lambeau, including losses to two dome teams, the Falcons and the Vikings, during that stretch. It's time the Pack gets its Frozen Tundra mojo back. That starts tonight. The Packers will finish this series winning two out of three from Minnesota this season.

We're calling it 27-20 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Season finale: Packers vs. Vikings preview

In week 17, the NFL regular season finale, the NFC North Division Champion Green Bay Packers travel across the Mississippi River to take on the Minnesota Vikings in the Humpty Dump. At stake for the Packers is nailing down the number two seed in the NFC playoffs and a first round bye. For the ViQueens, a win means -- in all likelihood -- getting the sixth seed in the playoffs. Do you think this game will be the gridiron equivalent of a cage match smackdown? Oh yes. Oh yes it will.

Keeping Peterson in check
In addition to the playoff implications, not only for the Packers and 'Queens but a few other teams as well, many will be watching today to see if Minnesota RB Adrian Peterson breaks Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards, set in 1984. Peterson needs 208 yards to break the record. Recall that he ran for 210 yards against the Packers in their first meeting earlier in the month at Lambeau Field. He also ran for 212 yards on 24 carries in a win over the Rams on Dec. 16. Bottom line: Peterson has exceeded the yardage he needs today in two of his last four games. So, is it in the realm of possibility that he'll get the record? Definitely. Is it likely the Packers will let that happen? I don't think so. They don't want him to set the record against them.

But not wanting to let Peterson set the record against them and seeing to it that that doesn't happen are two different things. The Packers will have to tackle well -- something they haven't always done this season -- in order to keep Peterson from breaking off those big chunks of yardage he is known to get.

If the Packers at least keep Peterson somewhat in check, then the 'Queens will need QB Christian Ponder to play well. Ponder has been hot and cold this season...generally cold but seemingly warming up a bit as of late. The Pack will need a pass rush, good linebacker support and that tenacious secondary to play the way they did last week in the win versus the Titans. Granted, Minnesota is a far better team than Tennessee (all the more reason for the defense to step up big time), but if the defense plays the way it showed it was capable of last weekend, then the Packers offense can do what it does best: put more points on the scoreboard than the opponent.

The difference
The Packers have at least one key playmaker today they didn't have in the first game: the Claymaker...LB Clay Matthews. That will be huge for the Packers. And with WR and returner Randall Cobb likely sitting this game out with the ankle injury suffered last weekend, the Pack will gladly take the return of WR Jordy Nelson. Jeremy Ross will be assuming Cobb's return duties, at least on punts.

The Packers will also have Ryan Grant as part of the three-headed running attack along with Alex Green and DuJuan Harris. The running-back-by-committee approach is something that has served the Packers well late in the season. While the ViQueens' defensive front, led by Jared Allen, is one of the better ones in the division, the Packers' offensive line also seems to be getting into a groove in its new configuration. Having said that, if new starting center Evan Dietrich-Smith has difficulty today against the Minnesota front expect veteran Jeff Saturday to step back into the role.

The Prediction
Much, much more analysis could be given here. But time and the availability of that type of information elsewhere offers both you, the reader, and this writer the opportunity to forego that repetition.

The Packers are 3-1/2-point favorites today. That seems to be about right. This will in all likelihood be a tight game throughout. A key turnover, a blown coverage or a missed tackle by either side might well determine the final outcome. Oh, do I need to also mention a missed field goal? Unfortunately for both fans and the Packers, given K Mason Crosby's issues over the last couple months, we need to reference that as a possible factor in the final score, too.

We're calling it 27-24 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers trounce Titans 55-7

After watching the total beat-down of the Tennessee Titans by the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field yesterday, many have just one question: who were those guys and what did they do with our Packers?!

Was this dominating team, on both offense and defense, the same team we've seen struggling to put away lesser opponents throughout most of the season?

In the last regular season game of the 2012 season played at Lambeau, the Packers put together their most complete performance of the season. The game against Houston earlier in the schedule was also a very thorough performance against, at that point, an undefeated team. But this game yesterday was...different.

To be sure, there were a few miscues, especially in the first half, as QB Aaron Rodgers himself admitted after the game. He missed a few throws that could have easily been touchdowns. Still, when you tally 55 points there's not too much to complain about. There were touchdown passes to multiple receivers, there were three rushing touchdowns (I KNNNOOOOWWW!), two by veteran Ryan Grant and one by rookie free agent DuJuan Harris. Actually, you have to add a rushing TD by Rodgers, as well, for the first score of the day on a quarterback draw.

On defense, the Pack registered seven sacks on the day and 12 knockdowns. LB A.J. Hawk himself had two; the last time Hawk had two sacks in one game was in 2008. The defense didn't let Titan RB Chris Johnson get rolling...they didn't let anything happen until about 2 minutes left in the game when a blown coverage led to a pass reception at the 2-yard line and then a TD moments later to shatter the shutout...which would have gone down in Packers' history had it held up.

As for special teams, they also performed so well that even kicker Mason Crosby's consecutive game streak of eight (or was it nine?) games in which he had missed at least one field game game to an end. Crosby made his only two field goal attempts on the day, although for good measure he did clank the 48-yarder off the right upright before it went over. That's how good of a day it was.

Second-year phenom, Randall Cobb, featured prominently not only in the passing game where he reeled in a remarkable TD catch, but also in the return game. In one remarkable play which displayed Cobb's intelligence rather than physical ability, he was back to receive the kickoff to start the third quarter. The kick came up a bit short and began to roll...and stall...near the 4-yard line. If Cobb had picked up the ball in bounds, the play would be live where he picked it up. In all likelihood, because of the slow roll and kickoff coverage, the ball might very well have wound up right there. Instead, Cobb first put one foot out of bounds -- actually looking to make sure -- before he touched the live ball. Thanks to a rather arcane NFL rule, this made him an out-of-bounds player and which then -- by rule -- made the kick out of bounds...which, in turn, is an illegal procedure penalty on the kicking team. Rather than the ball being on the 4 or 5-yard line, this action by Cobb gave the Packers the ball on their own 40-yard-line. Six plays and 60 yards later, the Pack was once again in the Titans' endzone with a touchdown. Head coach Mike McCarthy said this morning, "It’s the first time I’ve seen that kind of play in a game. That’s something our guys are coached to do. We have video when you show guys what to do. It’s a great play by Randall." Indeed.

The downside about Cobb for the Packers is that he got an ankle injury in the third quarter on a punt return. This has stirred up a hornet's nest of discussion about whether and why the Pack should still have Cobb back on kickoff and punt returns given his overall value to the offense of the Packers. McCarthy had this to say on the matter of perhaps removing him from those duties: "No, Randall Cobb is a big part of our success on special teams. That’s been our most consistent unit of our football team. ... I don’t understand how you play scared in the game of football. I understand the risk involved. Some plays are higher risk than others, but you can’t sit here and say special teams is important if you don’t put a guy like Randall Cobb out for a return."

One of the other big changes for the Packers Sunday was starting Evan Dietrich-Smith at center in place of veteran Jeff Saturday. There was nothing wrong with Saturday but it seems as if McCarthy and the coaching staff have been itching to see what Dietrich-Smith could do at center going forward. By all accounts, he performed well. First test passed.

There were and are a lot of other issues coming out of the game, as well as the loss by San Francisco to Seattle last night, which moves the Packers into the Number 2 NFC playoff seed right now. The possibilities that arise for the playoffs coming out of the final week of the regular season will make your head explode. Given that it's Christmas Eve, we'll avoid that scene. For now.

Check back later in the week when we will review a few of the possibilities for the playoffs and the Packers.

Enjoy the gift we received yesterday, Packer fans. Have a very Merry Christmas!

Packers vs. Lions Preview and Prediction

The streak
The last time the Detroit Lions beat the Green Bay Packers in Wisconsin -- mid-December of 1991 -- Erik Kramer was their quarterback and Mike Tomczak was somehow quarterbacking the Pack. The Packers were playing out a 4-12 season and the Lions were preparing for the playoffs as NFC Central Division champs. Detroit won 21-17. Since then -- over the next 20 years -- the Lions haven't won another game in Wisconsin and have been favored just once.

As a great article by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Bob McGinn points out, "The Packers' 20-game winning streak at home against the Lions is the longest in National Football League regular-season history." Amazing. And the Packers are favored again in tonight's game, by 7 points.

McGinn's article quotes former Packers General Manager, Ron Wolf, as reminding us that during this time span the Packers have had Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers -- both future Hall of Famers -- as the starting QBs. Detroit? Not. That does explain a lot. But still, the ball has to bounce your way sooner or later, right? Yes, but let's not start tonight, OK?

If you want to see my pre-preview of this game I wrote a few days ago, check out my prior post below. Or just click here to take you right there.

The challenges
The Packers will, as has been the case all season, be playing shorthanded with starters on both sides of the ball still out. But they will likely be getting a few folks back, as well, at least for spot duty. The return of WR Greg Jennings (last week) will again take up some of the slack for the missing Jordy Nelson.

The biggest challenge for the Packers will be the same as it was when the two teams met a few weeks ago: the offensive line vs. the Lions' defensive front. Detroit held down the Packers running game so that Rodgers was forced to pass more often, opening up the pass rush for the Lions. The Lions harassed Rodgers for a good part of the last game, even causing a fumble on a sack attempt. The Packers O-line has to step up. Given that undrafted rookie lineman, Don Barclay, will likely be getting the start at right tackle in place of injured T.J. Lang, and that the line will be fending off The Mad Stomper, Ndamukong Suh, it could once again be a long day for Rodgers...unless the Pack can get -- and keep -- its running game going.

To that end, and with RB James Starks being injured yet again, that effort will fall to Alex Green and newly-resigned veteran Ryan Grant. It's also possible that the Packers might try first-year player DuJuan Harris if the rushing game stagnates. He's a bit "undersized" at 5'8" but as has been shown in a few cases -- Barry Sanders (5'8") and Emmitt Smith (5'9") come to mind -- undersized is a relative term.

The bottom line prediction
As noted earlier, I wrote a pre-preview article a few days ago regarding this game, so you can get some further detail there.

The Lions are 4-8, have not won a game in the division, and have nothing to play for other than pride, and finally winning a game in Wisconsin after a generation. The Packers, at 8-4 atop the NFC North, must continue to win in order to control their own destiny.

Tonight's game will, according to forecasts, be cold, not too windy, but with anywhere fom 2-5 inches of snow predicted for the day...at the time of this writing, snow is already falling at Lambeau Field. This may very well mean more relianace on the rushing game or short passing attack. Fans would hope and expect that the "outdoors" Packers would have the advantage over the "indoors" Lions but we need to remember that the Packers haven't had to play in bad weather in quite a while either.

As noted earlier, the Pack is favored by 7 points. The over-under is 49 points, second highest for the weekend's games.

With the weather conditions being iffy at best, this is a game that could turn on turnovers and special teams play...that proverbial bounce of the ball we mentioned at the outset. If it's a close game, as the last game was into the fourth quarter with the Lions leading, anything could happen. But the Packers are the better team. The Packers are at home. The Packers have more to play for. The Packers will win.

I'm calling this one 24-17 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Still time to enter the Sweepstakes!
Larry the Cable Guy is in Green Bay tonight to crank up the official tailgate party. You can check out what he's been up to, and what he will have gotten up to while in Green Bay, at www.WildBerryFlavor.com. While there, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on an out-of-this-world flavor adventure of your own by entering the Wild American Flavor Sweepstakes. From now until January 7, 2013, enter at WildberryFlavor.com for a chance to win trips to three of America’s most flavorful cities, including tickets to some of the country’s biggest sporting events courtesy of new Prilosec OTC Wildberry. One winner will be chosen at random to receive the prize pack, including tickets to the big football game in New Orleans (February 3, 2013), the first big auto race of the year in Daytona Beach (February 24, 2013) and the basketball championship game in Atlanta (April 8, 2013), travel and accommodations (a two-night hotel stay and air transportation for each destination), and one $5,000 check to be used in any of these flavorful cities.

What are you waiting for, Packer fans? Git-R-Done!

Packers vs. Lions Pre-Preview

We’re doing this preview a bit earlier than usual. Which, to our way of thinking, makes it a pre-preview of the Sunday night game between the 8-4 Green Bay Packers and the 4-8 Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Hope you don't mind. (If you read to the end -- no skipping ahead! -- you'll be rewarded for your efforts. If you're lucky enough to win the sweepstakes, that is. Hey, no skipping ahead!)

Anyway, as most Packer fans know, the Packers and the Lions are the only two NFL teams that have played a home-and-home series every year since 1932. The Lions were then known as the Portsmouth (Ohio) Spartans. This is a series with roots. But back to the pre- part of this pre-preview.

From mid-week to game day, a lot of things can happen that could impact a game. Heck, just over the past couple days, RB James Starks has gone from being the guy on Monday that head coach Mike McCarthy said was going to be the man to carry most of the load going forward to, as of Wednesday, being out for at least several weeks with a knee injury sustained in Sunday’s game against the Vikings. In fact, speculation is that Starks could possibly be yet another in the increasingly long list of additions to the injured reserve list before the season is over. Wait to see on that one.

(Photo by Paul Kehrer, licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.)

Ryan Grant is back

But the big news of Wednesday was the signing of veteran RB Ryan Grant, the former Packer and the team's leading rusher over the past several seasons, who was not re-signed in the offseason. His only stint in the NFL this season was about a month with the Redskins. He played in one game, and carried the ball once for five yards. Then he was cut. Still, as coach McCarthy said in his press conference Wednesday, when Grant made his first appearance among his teammates after taking care of all the business details, he got a standing ovation from the rest of the players. Certainly a testimony to the character and leadership of the man.

Having said that, and as Wayne Larrivee, radio voice of the Packers, said Wednesday morning on Packers flagship radio station, 620WTMJ in Milwaukee before the signing of Grant was announced, the feeling around the league seemed to be that Grant hadn’t been signed by any other team after being cut by Washington because teams had basically determined that he didn’t have much left in the tank, so to speak. So, this is where the Pack is at in its rushing attack: second-year player Alex Green, who will now have to take on the bulk of the carries, and Grant. Concerned? Just add it to the list.

T.J. Lang may not play Sunday

According to McCarthy, it sounds as if the Packers are preparing to play the game against Detroit without T.J. Lang at right tackle. That means undrafted rookie Don Barclay will likely get the start and the rest of the O-line will be as it was against Minnesota. Barclay stepped into the game this past weekend and acquitted himself quite well after Lang went down with his ankle injury. Whether he’ll be able to hold up an entire game against a Detroit defensive line that includes Ndamukong Suh remains to be seen. But it’s the best option the Packers have at the moment. There was speculation in some circles that if Lang was able to return, and given Barclay’s first performance, that the Packers might shift Lang back to his usual left guard position in place of Evan Dietrich-Smith, who had his hands full last time around with Nick Fairley. That doesn’t seem likely at this point. Also, to address the dwindling offensive line depth, the Packers signed a lineman to the practice squad Wednesday after trying out a couple players the day before.

The good news: the Packers are playing the Lions…at Lambeau

With the current state of attrition on the Packers’ roster, it’s enough to give not only coaches heartburn but fans, too. You wouldn’t blame anyone for reaching for the Prilosec OTC Wildberry, would you?

Still, there is cause for hope…particularly since the Packers are playing the Lions in Wisconsin. In a series going all the way back to 1930, and with many memorable games both in Green Bay and Milwaukee, the Pack holds a dominant 54-24-4 series edge, as well as a 1-0 mark in the postseason in the state; the overall series stands at 92-65-7 in favor of the Packers, plus 2-0 in the postseason. It was Dec. 15, 1991, the last time the Lions won at Lambeau Field. Aaron Rodgers was 8 years old. That’s a winning streak, kids. And, despite all of the Packers’ injuries, they are not in jeopardy of having that streak broken. If you want more of the inside scoop and enough trivia to make your head explode, check out the official “Dope Sheet” from the Packers.

Now, of course, on any given day blah blah blah. But these are the Lions. The dysfunctional Lions who just wound up putting WR Titus Young on IR probably as much for attitude as injury. Head coach Jim Schwartz, when asked about Young having knee surgery, said, “Yeah, most likely. Yes, unless he doesn’t show up for it.” Ouch.

Aside from legitimate receiving threat Calvin Johnson, Detroit just doesn’t have weapons offensively to match up – keep up – with the Pack. If the Lions' defense is able to make life difficult for the Packers and keep it close…nah! Not going to happen. The Lions are 7-point underdogs (at the time of this writing) for a reason. That reason is that the Packers are simply a better team. In fact, TE Jermichael Finley alluded to that fact Tuesday when asked about the Packers' record of success against Detroit at Lambeau. Finley reportedly said, “It’s not rocket science.” Point made. The better team usually wins. Especially at home.

The Packers are averaging 29 points per game and allowing 18.3 so far this season. Detroit, over the course of its current four-game losing streak, is allowing 31.75 points per game. So if these trends continue, the odds certainly favor the Pack. Do you expect the Lions’ offense, defense and special teams to be able to score more than 32 points against the Packers? Do you expect the Packers to give up that many points? The answer is no to both questions.

We won’t have our points prediction for the game until Sunday, so you'll have to check back here then. But in the meantime, we still have something special to share with you.

Larry the Cable Guy in town to tailgate!

Yes, your favorite “Git-R-Done” football fan, Larry the Cable Guy, will be at the official Packer Fans Tours Tailgate Party before the game. You can find out more about that here.

Green Bay is Larry’s final stop on his wild cross-country adventure to popular sports venues to help introduce the first flavor-coated 24-hour frequent heartburn pill, new Prilosec OTC Wildberry! Yes, really. You see, Larry is not only a very funny guy, but he’s also a frequent heartburn sufferer. Yes, really. Here's what he has to say about that: “I love wild flavor! And I don’t let my frequent heartburn stop me from enjoying all the spicy, cheesy, sizzling experiences America serves up. That’s why I love new Prilosec OTC Wildberry – you get the same frequent heartburn relief as Prilosec OTC, but now with a fancy coating that gives you a burst of wildberry flavor. Now I can enjoy all the flavors this great land of ours has to offer!” And really, Packer fans, what better place to get – and get-over – heartburn than at a tailgate party?

Enter the Sweepstakes

You can see what Larry’s been up to, and what he will have gotten up to while in Green Bay, at www.WildBerryFlavor.com. While there, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on an out-of-this-world flavor adventure of your own by entering the Wild American Flavor Sweepstakes. From now until January 7, 2013, enter at WildberryFlavor.com for a chance to win trips to three of America’s most flavorful cities, including tickets to some of the country’s biggest sporting events courtesy of new Prilosec OTC Wildberry. One winner will be chosen at random to receive the prize pack, including tickets to the big football game in New Orleans (February 3, 2013), the first big auto race of the year in Daytona Beach (February 24, 2013) and the basketball championship game in Atlanta (April 8, 2013), travel and accommodations (a two-night hotel stay and air transportation for each destination), and one $5,000 check to be used in any of these flavorful cities.

What are you waiting for, Packer fans? Git-R-Done!

Packers injuries create concerns and opportunities; sign Benson

If the 2012 preseason is beginning to make fans think of a couple years ago when the Packers were a walking MASH unit, there's good reason. There are currently something like 18 players who are being held out of practice because of various injuries. That obviously creates opportunities for those players who are the next guys in, as they say. But it also creates concerns for coaches and fans alike.

Desmond Bishop...out for season?
LB Desmond Bishop may very well be lost for the season after suffering a serious hamstring injury in the first preseason game at San Diego. He'll be undergoing surgery for the repair and then only time will tell if he is able to make it back this season. If it looks as if it will take most of the season before he's able to even begin rehab, we can expect the Packers to put Bishop on the injured reserve list to open up a roster spot. Given the lack of depth apparent on the offensive line, also due to injuries, that open roster spot might be used for an O-lineman who can play tackle and guard.

With Bishop sidelined, second-year player D.J. Smith will be getting much more playing time. The coaches like his instincts, although he is a bit undersized for the position. Still, if he makes plays he will get playing time. Check out this article by Tyler Dunne of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as to how coaches and players -- including Bishop himself -- view Smith's playing ability.

Davon House...out for a few weeks
One of the players the Packers were excited about last year, who was lost to injury, is defensive back, Davon House. Unfortunately, House -- like Bishop -- sustained an injury in the first preseason game. House injured his shoulder. It was first thought it might be a dislocation but the team is now saying it's a sprain. House is wearing a sling and will miss at least two to three weeks of practice; whether he's ready for the start of the regular season or not remains to be seen. Others will have to step in and take advantage of their opportunities.

Big problems on O-line
The unavailability of left tackles Marshall Newhouse and Derek Sherrod left the Pack starting journeyman lineman, Herb Taylor, for the Chargers game. The result was that QB Aaron Rodgers was under pressure the entire time he played, as Taylor was being outplayed by a rookie defender. The Packers have to be concerned about the lack of depth and quality, especially at left tackle right now. Newhouse was back at practice today and for that, we assume, Rodgers gave thanks to the Almighty.

Pack adds Cedric Benson to backfield
After a few days speculation, the Packers signed veteran running back Cedric Benson to help bolster an inexperienced and punchless -- so far -- running attack. Nominal starter, James Starks, had a horrible game in San Diego, dropping the ball whether it was passed or handed off to him. This apparently continues a type of play that coaches have seen to date in training camp. Alex Green wasn't able to show much, and Brandon Saine was held out of the game. Ryan Grant was still available but an analysis of stats apparently indicated that Benson had more pop left than does similarly-aged Grant. In a radio interview with Larry McCarren today, head coach Mike McCarthy said he thought Benson would be a good fit. Hope he's right. We won't have a chance to see Benson in action until the third preseason game because of CBA rules regarding "padded practices" ... or something. Go figure. The way it's gone for the Pack this training camp he'll probably get hurt before he gets in a game.

Packers' first preseason game an ugly one

Well, Packer fans...we've been waiting a long time for football season to roll around. The excitement was building since OTAs, mini-camp, and finally the start of summer training camp. The Twitter-sphere was abuzz yesterday with anticipation for the 2012 Pack's first preseason game (by the way, you can follow yours truly on Twitter @packfansunited). As always, San Diego was presenting its sunny charms.

Unfortunately, the game then got underway.

This nationally-televised game on ESPN showed the Packers not ready for primetime. The final score was 21-13, but it never really seemed that close. Granted, it's the first preseason game. But it looked more like a Pop Warner League game than an NFL game. Oh sure, we know that the starters aren't going to play long because coaches don't want to expose them to injury. In fact, the Packers played last night without 16 injured players, including starters Greg Jennings and Jermichael Finley, among a slew of others. Defensive back Charles Woodson was withheld.

Last night, it might have also done well for the coaches to save the starters from embarrassment. Turnovers, dropped balls, missed blocks, missed tackles...those can be expected from the young guys getting their first taste of the NFL. But for starters to be so sloppy? The starting offense ran three series for a total of 14 plays, generating all of two first downs and 32 yards. They turned the ball over twice and punted once. Oy.

Now, it's not time to hit the panic button. It's only the first game...it's only the first game...it doesn't count...it doesn't count. The coaching staff and starters are too good to let these errors go unaddressed. But the game also shows just how far the team has to go in the next month to get ready for the season opener at Lambeau Field against the 49ers.

A lone bright spot of sorts is that backup QB Graham Harrell seemed to acquit himself fairly well. In the second half, he was able to execute some nicely thrown passes. He could handle the team if something were to happen to Rodgers, although the drop off would of course be considerable.

Concerns and Injuries
Particularly disconcerting was the play of nominal starting running back, James Starks, who is being counted upon to step in and replace the unsigned Ryan Grant. On his first touch of the ball, a little safety valve pass from QB Aaron Rodgers, Starks simply dropped the ball. Easy pass, easy catch...nope. Just one pass, but it goes to reinforce the knock on Starks from last season that he has trouble catching the ball. The third time Rodgers handed him the ball, he fumbled, leading to the Chargers' first score of the game two plays later. Starks didn't seem to be running with aggressiveness or playing with confidence...both somewhat necessary traits to have in a starting running back.

Another area of concern is the lack of depth at certain positions along the offensive line. With starting left guard Marshall Newhouse sitting the game out because of injury, and second-year player Derek Sherrod still not cleared to play from last season's injury, the starting nod went to journeyman lineman Herb Taylor. Rodgers' interception was directly a result of Taylor getting whipped like a rented mule on a bull rush by the Chargers' rookie linebacker, Melvin Ingram. The play prior, Taylor was called for holding Ingram. Not good.

The defense had its own share of problems despite taking the ball away twice in the first quarter, including a great pick by Tramon Williams. Rookie Nick Perry got an early sack, but then was promptly penalized 15 yards for celebrating that fact. Overall, Packer fans saw much of what we saw last season: little pass rush, pass coverage breakdowns, and tackling that is more suitable for flag football than the NFL.

To add insult to injury, actually injury to injury, LB Desmond Bishop was injured in a tackling pile and had to be assisted from the field; he was reportedly seen in the locker room after the game on crutches and with a brace on his leg. Head coach Mike McCarthy said they weren't sure whether it was a leg or hamstring issue, but from watching replays of the play on which Bishop was injured the guess from here is leg and that he will be out for a while. Hopefully, that while won't turn into a lost-for-the-season type of thing. Stay tuned. The other injury was that of defensive back Davon House, who left the game after taking a hit to his shoulder. He is scheduled for X-rays today to assess the damage; best case scenario, some commentators thought, might be a dislocation. The Packers were looking for House to step up this season and make significant contributions to the secondary, so let's hope this isn't something which limits that.

So, next up in the preseason football follies is the Cleveland Browns who come to Green Bay next Thursday. Let's just hope McCarthy and his coaching staff get this team whipped into better shape than we saw last night. Still, it's probably helpful to remind ourselves that McCarthy's record in exhibition games is now 12-13, including a 2-5 record in openers. Moral to that story: at this stage of things, don't worry about it.

Packers training camp restores balance to the universe

Does that headline seem a little over the top? If you are a true Green 'n' Gold fan of the Green Bay Packers...nah, nothing but the truth in that statement.

During the offseason, Packer fans find themselves doing anything to distract themselves from the reality that things are just not right. How could they be? There's no Packers football for Pete's sake! Or anyone else's sake for that matter. We have to "entertain" ourselves with (shudder) basketball, baseball (well, OK, I guess), golf (fine to play and also a good way to get a nap in if watching on TV), soccor (don't dare call it football or futball...I don't care if you are European!), tennis (c'mon, who cares really?), or who knows what else?

Yes, it really is a cultural wasteland, isn't it?

But that's about to change this week, Packers fans! After new Packers' shareholders get to attend their first meeting inside Lambeau Field, the players will return to St. Norbert College and the Packers' training facilities for the start of camp. Yay! (By the way, if you are curious about St. Norbert College's connection with the Pack, check out this brief article for more.)

What's the outlook?
We are well aware of the fact that the Packers are, at least according to the early line in Vegas, favorites to not only win the NFC North and NFC Championship, but to also win the 2013 Super Bowl. It's good to be favored. But as we also know, even going 15-1, as the Packers did last season, is no guarantee of bringing another Lombardi Trophy back to where it rightfully belongs: Green Bay -- TitleTown USA.

There are some question marks, of course. First among them: things haven't started yet so who the heck knows what will happen? An injury in training camp or early in the season to a key player and the outlook changes dramatically. Beyond that, the sieve that was the defense last season has got to be improved. It was the team's Achilles Heal last season and prevented them from going to the big game. A couple of the new draft picks will be expected to step in and perform almost from the get-go. With Nick Collins now gone in the secondary, someone else will have to pick up the slack. There are a number of candidates, but all are unproven at this point. Getting a pass rush will do a great deal to help the secondary.

On offense, the line will have to gel after some key departures. Again, the Pack seems to have a number of players that can fill the gaps. The question is: how well? There are no questions at QB where we have the best player in the NFL, Aaron Rodgers. We also have the best receiving corps in the league, loaded at wide receiver and tight end. The question mark is at running back. Ryan Grant is unsigned and may or may not see another snap as a Packer. James Starks is slotted as the starter, with second-year player Alex Green coming off injury as his primary back up. Another second-year player, Brandon Saine, also stands to get a chance at showing what he can do. It will likely be running back by committee especially in this pass-happy offense. Fullback John Kuhn will likely resume his steady roll, although he might not be ready for training camp even after six months of rehab from his MCL injury...so that slot may wind up being a bit more wide open than expected, too.

Bottom line?
What all this translates into is apparently what the oddsmakers see: a talented and well-coached team that, despite some issues, looks like the best bet to go all the way. Granted, there's a long way to go especially when things haven't started yet. But, really, who would you rather put your money on right now?

Yes, with training camp almost here, balance to the universe is once again restored.

Say it with me: it's great to be a Packers fan!!!

Packers route Raiders, 46-16; witnessing "greatness"?

Are there really any more superlatives one can use to describe the 2011 Green Bay Packers? Apparently so. Yesterday, before the Packers took the Oakland Raiders to the Lambeau Field woodshed for a whupping, former Steelers coach Bill Cowher declared that, "In my opinion, no team has been greater." That certainly sets up a conversation filled with opinions. But for now, at least, the Packers are certainly the greatest team this season...and unarguably the second greatest over a two-season span, winning 19 consecutive games going back to last year. This Packers team trails only the New England Patriots of several years back who reeled off 21 games in a row over two seasons.

The Pack are enjoying a historic season from a team perspective, setting records for scoring, consecutive wins, etc. QB Aaron Rodgers finally had his NFL record consecutive streak of games with a passer rating over 100 snapped yesterday, falling just short of that mark. Even an MVP has an off day now and then.

Anyway, back to the Raiders game. Oh, why bother? They didn't show up to play, why should I show up to write about them? Exactly!

The Pack had their most complete game of the season yesterday. Scoring almost at will in the first half, and generating five turnovers on defense. Three players that hadn't scored yet this season got added to the total, now making 19 in all. Ryan Grant, Erik Walden and rookie Ryan Taylor all notched a TD. The only blemish on a perfect day was a blocked PAT...but that just kept the score at 43 points at that time instead of 44. Ah well. Even backup QB Matt Flynn saw more than a quarter's worth of playing time.

Oh...and with the win, the Packers secured a first round bye in the playoffs. If they beat Kanssas City on the road this coming Sunday, they will secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Anyone think that's not going to happen? KC? Puh-leze. All roads will lead to Lambeau this season, Packer fans!

The downside to the game was the injury to WR Greg Jennings, a sprained knee (originally reported as a torn MCL) which will sideline him probably through the end of the regular season. While, no one thinks losing Jennings is a plus, is anyone really worried that things won't keep churning along? The depth that GM Ted Thompson has built is remarkable. One guy goes down, another comes in without any apparent drop off.

Still, injuries are starting to pile up. RB Brandon Saine -- himself a replacement -- had his playing time shortened yesterday after sustaining a concussion. Ditto for Ryan Pickett. Offensive linemen Chad Clifton and Josh Sitton are still out. LBs A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop are ailing. It's nowhere near as bad as last year. But still. Injuries to key personnel, most notably Rodgers, would be about the only thing that would derail this juggernaut. Keep your fingers crossed, folks. Things are looking good. But players need to stay healthy for the final push through the post-season to the Super Bowl.

The Packers are on their way again. And we can all enjoy the ride.

Say it with me: it's great to be a Packers fan!

Packers vs. Raiders preview

The Oakland Raiders -- or Raidahs, if you prefer an ESPN announcer-ish pronunciation -- visit the not-yet-fully-frozen tundra of Lambeau Field this afternoon to become the Green Bay Packers latest victims. The Raiders are in a dead heat with the Tebow-roncos for the lead in the AFC West at 7-5, although technically in second place because of tie-breakers, etc. They are 3-2 in their last five games. After beating Da Bearz 25-20 at home (thank you very much!), the Raiders had an embarrassing loss last Sunday in Miami, losing to the last-place AFC East Division Fish, 34-14. Today, Oakland is a 12-point underdog to the Pack. The over-under on this game is the highest of all games this week, at 51.5. The Packers are averaging 35 points per game and the Raiders just under 23. Some points are going to be scored today. As usual for the last 12 games of this regular season, and 18 games straight back to last season, the Packers will put up more points than their opponent and come away with their 13th win of the 2011 schedule.

That's not to say this will be a gimme game. Oakland is fighting for its playoff life against streaking Denver and they were embarrassed by the Dolphins. So they will come to Lambeau with a chip on their shoulder, no doubt. But it's not as if this will be the first time the Packers have seen that situation this season. It's pretty much a weekly occurrence now: teams with something to prove to either themselves or others.

Raiders quick take
So what are the Raiders strengths coming into this game? A good quarterback in Carson Palmer, although as an in-season pick up he is still learning about his receivers and vice versa. Third-year WR Darrius Heyward-Bey leads the team in receptions and yards, with rookie Denarius Moore not far behind; regrettably for Oakland, Moore is out for this game.

The Raiders have had a solid running game, which is fourth in the NFL, averaging just over 140 yards per game. For the most part, it consists of Michael Bush and Darren McFadden, but the latter is out for this game. Fellow running back Taiwan Jones is also out for this game, leaving Bush, Rock Cartwright (with all of two rushing attempts this season) and FB Marcel Reece to shoulder the carries. Packer fans know all-too-well that the defense sometimes has trouble tackling ball carriers. We can be thankful that McFadden is out today, as that would be a definite challenge.

The Raiders have a lot of injuries, at key positions. They are capable of putting up some points, but it won't be enough against the Packers today.

Packers notes
For the Packers, the team will once again be without RB James Starks. Look for Ryan Grant and rookie Brandon Saine to get the carries today, along with an occasional bone thrown to John Kuhn, of course. We might get to see a little more action from TEs Tom Crabtree and rookie D.J. Williams today, after Andrew Quarless was placed on IR for the season. With the loss of second-year player Quarless, the Packers lose arguably their best-blocking tight end. One of these other players will have to pick up the slack. It's also possible Williams could create some match up problems as well if he's factored into the passing game at all. But, as we all know, with the wide receiving corps the Packers have, along with TE Jermichael Finley, there are targets aplenty for QB Aaron Rodgers and match up problems galore for the Pack's opponents week in and week out.

The trick will be for the Packers O-line to protect Rodgers without, once again, starters Chad Clifton and Josh sitton. LT Marshall Newhouse had a great game against Detroit but struggled last week's against the Giants. Look for him to re-establish himself with a solid game.

Defensively, the Packers will also be without starting LB Desmond Bishop once again. A.J. Hawk is listed as questionable. D.J. Smith and Robert Francois will no doubt both see plenty of action again today. They have held up well so far. Charles Woodson is listed as probable coming off his slight concussion sustained in last week's game; in fact, he's one of the captains for today's game...not surprising since he spent the first part of his illustrious career playing for the Raiders, of course. Gotta figure he's looking for a big game against his old team.

Bottom line...
Temperatures for today's game will start in the mid-30's -- balmy for mid-December in Green Bay -- and will dip a bit as the sun goes down for the second half of the game. Conditions will be clear with low winds. In other words, it is great weather for a late afternoon/early evening winter game in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

After throwing all the variables into the Packervac 5000 Computer (Copyright/Trademark!), our prediction has the Pack beating the Raiders by a score of 41-27.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Lions: A future Thanksgiving classic

Happy Thanksgiving, Packer fans! It's that time of year again when we give thanks for all our blessings. Much to be grateful for, indeed. Not least of which is our beloved Green Bay Packers, of course. The Super Bowl Champion, 10-0 (16-0 going back to last season) Packers.

Today's game between the Packers and the up-and-coming Lions is the main course in today's triumvirate of NFL games. The Packers are playing to keep their win streak alive and get one step closer to homefield advantage throughout the playoffs. The Lions are playing to prove to themselves and the rest of the world that they are indeed the new kid on the block in the NFC North. The game shapes up to be one of those epic Turkey Day classics that have come down to us through the football ages. Heck, the players on both teams from the 1962 game (in which the Lions beat the then-undefeated Pack) are still talking trash to one another.

The Packers are averaging more than 35 points per game, the Lions more than 30. It goes without saying that points will be scored. The Lions' defense is often spoken of in glowing terms, and rightly so at least in terms of their front four. They caused problems for the Pack in last year's game in Detroit, knocking out QB Aaron Rodgers with a concussion and securing a 7-3 win. Oy. The Packers' offensive line must play at a higher level than it has over the last few weeks in particular in order to keep Rodgers not only upright but in the game. The Lions are quickly getting a reputation for being on the dirty side of things. Rodgers and all the players, especially on offense, are going to need to have their heads on a swivel all day long. Cheap shots will be coming. You just hope and pray they don't result in a player being lost for the game or longer.

This is one game where you'd really like a consistent running game to take the pressure off Rodgers and the passing game. It's unclear whether RB James Starks will see playing time today or not after spraining his knee in Sunday's game against the Buccaneers. Late word was that he'd be a gametime decision. If Starks can't go, Ryan Grant is prepared to get most of the carries, although we may see our first glimpse of recently-elevated practice squad player Brandon Saine. If the Packers can't run and can't protect Rodgers it will be a long day, kids.

The Packers' passing attack may take a bit of a hit if Greg Jennings can't go today because of his bruised knee. But as we all know, there are still plenty of receiving weapons for Rodgers to choose from. On a fast track inside, the passing game should be top-notch and Rodgers should be able to exploit a suspect secondary...if he gets time, of course.

On the other side of things, the Packers' defense must tighten things up against a very good QB in Matthew Stafford. He'll be looking for his main receiving threat, Calvin Johnson, all day long. WR Titus Young and TE Tony Scheffler are his other key receiving targets. That means the secondary must communicate better to avoid the blown coverages we have seen far too often in some games this season. The linebacking corps also must do a better job covering the tight ends. And somehow, someway, defensive coordinator Dom Capers must get consistent pressure on Stafford. If that happens, the Packers will have multiple chances to generate turnovers. The Lions' running game took a hit with Jahvid Best reportedly being out for the game today. Kevin Smith can do damage, however, if the Packers don't tackle better than they did against the Buccaneers. The embarrassment which the defense should have felt at having Bucs RB LeGarrette Blount run through the entire lineup just might serve as a wakeup call on that issue.

Let's not forget special teams, especially since the Packers now have a legitimate return threat in Randall Cobb. He is a game changer. Whether he gets a return for a touchdown today or merely sets up a short field for the Packers' offense a few times, his impact could be the difference in today's game.

The Packers are favored by 6-1/2 points, with the over-under being set at 55-1/2 points, the latter being the largest total of Week 12's games. Holy shootout, Batman!

I'd have to go with the over, and I'd probably take the Lions against the spread if push came to shove on both. This is a game which the Pack could lose if they don't play the way they are capable of on both sides of the ball. This Detroit team is capable of putting up points. It might be a game where whoever has the ball last wins. As we've seen on more than one occasion this season -- far too many times, in fact -- the Packers "D" has a way of letting teams back in the game, particularly late. If they do that today they just might not be able to pull things out.

I have to drink the Green 'n' Gold elixir yet again, though, today. I think the Pack will prevail in a hard-fought, high-scoring game. I'm calling it Packers 38 - Lions 34.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Buccaneers preview

After the near week-long bliss fest following the Packers' trouncing of the ViQueens -- it certainly was nowhere near as close as I and some others thought it would be (who knew the 'Queens would go into full fetal position in this game?) -- we now have the former division rivals from Tampa Bay as the next victim, er, team coming to Lambeau Field. The Packers are favored by 14 points over the 4-5 Buccaneers. The over-under is set at 48.5 points, the largest of this weekend's games.

Just a hunch, but my guess is the oddsmakers are figuring the Packers to put up the majority of those points. That's because Tampa is giving up 401.2 yards (31st in the NFL), 263.0 passing yards (28th) and 138.2 rushing yards (29th) through their first nine games. But, well, you know...until last week's game against the 'Queens, the Pack's defense wasn't exactly much to brag about either.

And that should really be the thing to watch in this game: the Packers' "D". Will it be the sieve-like bend-don't-break defense of the first eight games, or will we see a reprise of Monday night's game against Minnesota? If the latter, this Packers team is a juggernaut that is on its way to a second consecutive Super Bowl barring some freakish happening of which we must not speak. If the former, this Packers team...oh, heck...it's still a juggernaut, let's be honest.

But back to the game at hand: let's not forget that the Bucs had a couple impressive wins this season against Atlanta and New Orleans. But they also had some equally unimpressive showings against San Francisco and Houston, losing to the Niners 48-3 and the Texans 37-9. So who knows which team will show up? QB Josh Freeman, who had his coming out party a few years back in Tampa with an upset win over the Pack, is not having such a great season. The Packers defense, particularly if they play at the same level they did last week, should be able to keep that trend of mediocrity going for Mr. Freeman.

With QB Aaron Rodgers having a season of historic proportions, the Pack will once again exploit a bad defense despite Rodgers' prior difficulties against Tampa Bay teams. That was then, this is now. The Bucs don't generate much of a pass rush, either, but unless the offensive line plays better than it did Monday night the Packers might make that rush seem world class. Let's hope the offensive line has worked out its issues. The guard play Monday evening was especially poor. We can expect that will not happen two games in a row.

One of the other things to look for in this game is to see whether coach Mike McCarthy tries to get the running game going a bit more heading into the harsh winter months. Although game conditions in Green Bay today will be relatively balmy by late Novemeber standards, winter is on its way and the running game will need to be solidified. Look for James Starks to get most of the carries of what few there will likely be, with Ryan Grant also getting a handful. But the Packers' might also try to get recently elevated practice squad rookie RB Brandon Saine into the mix just to see what he can do. In interviews this past week, it was clear coaches see something in this young man and would like to see what he can do in game situations.

So, we could go on and on about this and that. But do we need to, really? Nah. Let's just make the call, shall we?

I'm calling it Packers 41, Buccaneers 16.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Vikings Preview

With less than an hour to kickoff, we're finally getting our preview of the Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings game posted. Better late than never.

The Pack is favored by 9-1/2 in the re-inflated Humpty Dump in Minneapolis. Remember the days when that dome was the proverbial House of Horrors for the Packers? Not today, folks. Today, there will likely be as many Packer fans in attendance as home team fans. When the 'Queens are 1-5 and playing the 6-0 Packers, Minnesota fans bail. Can't blame them, really. After all, if the team doesn't get a new stadium deal approved it could be moving to Los Angeles just as did that old basketball team of the North Star state...you've heard of a team called the Lakers, right? But that's a whole other conversation. Back to the game at hand...

Now, don't expect the 'Queens to roll over. They have talented players, let's not forget, including RB Adrian Peterson and DE Jared Allen. But beyond that...? The decision was made this last week to bench starting veteran QB Donovan McNabb -- who seems to have nothing left -- in favor of first round draft pick Christian Ponder. The Pack's defense could have a big day should the 'Queens decide or need to pass a lot. On the other hand, one would expect the Minnesota coaching staff to be smart enough to have Ponder hand off about 30 times today to Peterson if they want to have any shot at upsetting the Packers. If the Packers contain Peterson, it's game, set, match Packers.

On the flip side, the ViQueens secondary is terrible. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers and the receivers should have a huge day, assuming tackles Marshall Newhouse and Bryan Bulaga can keep Allen from harassing Rodgers. It would also be helpful in this regard if running backs Ryan Grant and James Starks can keep the 'Queens defense honest.

Inactive players today for the Packers are: Sam Shields, Robert Francois, Frank Zombo, Jamari Lattimore, Mike Neal, Chad Clifton and Ray Dominguez. Rookie DB Davon House is active today and should see playing time, although Jarrett Bush will be the nickel back.

While Minnesota has raced out to big leads in many of their games this season, they have collapsed in the second half. The Packers, with the exception of last week's game against the Rams, have generally gotten stronger as the game has gone on. Let's not forget, too, that the Packers' defense hasn't given up a touchdown in the last six quarters of play. What does this mean for today's game? I think the first half will likely be played relatively close, while the Pack turns it up in the second half.

My prediction: Packers 41 - ViQueens 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers escape Carolina with second win

We've now had a night to sleep on the events that transpired during the Green Bay Packers' victory over the Carolina Panthers. It was a game which certainly didn't play out as many, including yours truly, expected.

It was almost universally agreed that Panthers' QB Cam Newton, after his high-flying NFL debut, would be brought back to earth by Dom Capers' Packers defense. Well, not quite. In fact, Newton wound up surpassing his first week passing yardage by throwing for something like a bazillion yards. Fortunately for the Pack, he also made a few rookie mistakes along the way, tossing a few interceptions Charles Woodson's way and missing a few redzone passes that could have turned the Panthers' loss into a win.

But the Packers escaped with a win to make them 2-0 on the season. Given the Packers have not generally started well under Mike McCarthy, at least we now are on the plus side of things.

But the game was one of the most schizophrenic in recent memory (reflected in this post). The Packers won the coin toss but elected to defer. Coach McCarthy was obviously confident that his defense could set the tone for the game by shutting down Newton and the Panthers, and then getting the Packers offense rolling. Well, not quite. Newton sliced and diced the Packers porous defense and seemingly before we knew it the Packers were down 13-0 and the offense had been on the field for something like 3 plays in the first quarter. If that's not the actual play count it's close enough.

In the second half, the Packers adjusted as best they could and eventually took the lead, which they did not relinquish despite some nervous moments at the end. For the second straight game, the Packers wound up having to seal the game with Donald Driver recovering an onside kick. (Kudos to Driver, by the way, for setting the franchise record for receiving yards, surpassing James Lofton.) It was also the second game in which the Packers' defense resembled more of a sieve than an NFL squad. Granted, the Packers wound up playing a good portion of the second half without Nick Collins, who was carted off the field after sustaining a neck injury. After staying overnight in a Charlotte hospital for evaluation, the early prognosis is good, but whether Collins will be ready to play against Da Bearz this Sunday remains to be seen.

The tone of the game seemed to change for the Packers once they were able to get their running game in gear. Ryan Grant had 6 carries for 25 yards while James Starks ran 9 time for 85, including a 40-yard scamper. With that kind of running threat, it helped open the play fakes for Aaron Rodgers and actually set up two of the longer touchdown throws of the day, one to Greg Jennings for nearly 50 yards and the last TD of the day, that 84-yard pitch, catch and run to Jordy Nelson. Credit should also be given to Jennings for making a great, crushing downfield block to help make sure Nelson got to the endzone. The biggest concern on offense yesterday seemed to be their inability to convert Carolina's four turnovers into touchdowns; the Pack only scored 9 points off turnovers. That's a lot of points left on the field, and it kept the Panthers in the game.

Beyond that, there really aren't too many concerns with the offense at this point, although the offensive line seemed to be allowing more pressure on Rodgers than the Carolina O-line was allowing on their quarterback.

Which leads to a brief discussion of the problem for the Packers at the moment: the defense. In two games, the Packers have given up 1,003 yards of total offense, most of it through the air. Read that again: 1,003 yards. In two games. Yowza. Giving up big yards to Drew Brees is one thing; giving up big yards to a rookie -- even one who looks like the real deal in Cam Newton -- is another. For most of the day, there seemed to be virtually no pass rush of any kind. Likewise, receivers seemed to be wide open most of the time, allowing for Newton's big completions. Whether it was a communications problem, a bad defensive call, whatever, the Packers have to get this cleaned up.

Going into Chicago this coming Sunday allows the Packers to either get its defense together and toss QB Jay Cutler around like a rag doll, as he has been in the first two games, or to allow Da Bearz to stay in the game and win with a defensive or special teams play as is their usual M.O. As for me, I'd prefer the former scenario to the latter.

The Packers offense must maximize its opportunities, score TDs instead of FGs, and get first downs late in the game to control the ball and run out the clock. The defense needs to start stepping up its efforts long before the other team gets into the redzone, and long before it comes down to a last minute goal-line stand.

The Packers are winning but winning ugly. They must become more consistent on both sides of the ball if they are to once again make it to the Big Game.

Packers vs. Cardinals preseason game recap

The Green Bay Packers defeated the Arizona Cardinals 28-20 at Lambeau Field last night in the second of four preseason games.

What were this writer's observations? Probably the same as many who either were at the game or saw it on TV: it's a preseason game. In other words, there was some good, some bad and lots of so-so. How's that for an insightful analysis? Actually, it must be on target because many of the folks who get paid to cover this stuff have said basically the same thing. (By the way, for any media enterprises out there that would like to pay me to relate these pithy commentaries to your readers/viewers/listeners...let's talk...and now, back to your regularly scheduled programming....)

On offense, the first few series for the number one unit were pretty lackluster until things shifted into gear with the no-huddle offense. QB Aaron Rodgers seemed to get into more of a rhythm, connecting with multiple receivers and finally hitting on a great back shoulder endzone toss to Greg Jennings. It was nice to see TE Jermichael Finley back in the lineup and he looks ready to go. Ditto for Ryan Grant, although head coach Mike McCarthy made it clear in his post-game comments that he knows Grant needs more reps this next week at Indianapolis. Second-year RB James Starks was held out, which helped set the stage for our first look at rookie RB Alex Green. Green didn't disappoint. He reeled off a 25-yard gain on a screen play and two plays later powered into the endzone for a two-yard touchdown score. Green needs help on his Lambeau Leap, however. That'll come around. As, hopefully, will his blitz pick ups; he missed one which resulted in backup QB Matt Flynn taking a hit.

But Green wasn't alone in the missed-blocks area. More concerning were the hits and sacks allowed by the starting offensive line on Aaron Rodgers. T.J. Lang, starting at left guard, missed an assignment. But to be fair, so did the usually steady RG Josh Sitton. When rookie Derek Sherrod took over at left guard it became clear he is not yet ready to start. His pad level was too high, his foot work was slow, and he did not use his hands well enough. It would seem that trying to make Sherrod into a guard when he appears to be more naturally suited to the tackle position is an experiment worth trying, but also ending. Let the youngster apprentice behind Chad Clifton.

Another standout on offense last night was WR Chastin West, who wound up converting a sideline route into a 97-yard touchdown from Matt Flynn. The Packers already have 5 receivers that are locks to make the squad: Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, James Jones and Randall Cobb. But West's performance will sure give coaches something to think about. Would they carry six receivers? Doubtful. But we didn't think they'd carry three fullbacks last season either.

Third-string quarterback Graham Harrell also had an impressive performance. Given that Matt Flynn will be a free agent next season, it's great to see Harrell really step up his grasp of the offense and decisive play. He had some great throws, as well.

On defense, C.J. Wilson, filling in for the injured Mike Neal, who was replacing the departed Cullen Jenkins, had to leave the game early with what was reported to be a concussion. That meant Jarius Wynn and others got more playing time at defensive end. Asked about the injuries, GM Ted Thompson indicated that he still didn't think he'd have to look for a free agent to help bolster the D-line.

Defensive back Josh Gordy continues to get playing time and make an impression. He's giving Pat Lee, and maybe others, a run for the money in a backup role.

The defense played things pretty vanilla last night, and at times seemed to be a bit lost, especially in coverage by the backups. Starting outside linebackers were giving the corners far too easily on the runs by Beanie Wells in particular. Not much on this side of the ball to write home about...as I said at the outset, so-so.

But the bottom line was a win. It doesn't really count, of course. But on a beautiful August evening in Green Bay, Wisconsin -- Titletown -- the fans got to see some of the favorites for a few plays and then got to take a look at some of the young players competing for a handful of spots on what still looks like a championship caliber team.

All that can be said a the moment is that it's great to be a Packer fan!

Go Pack Go!!!

Quick takes on Packers' quick practice

For the third time in four years, the Packers' Family Night event at Lambeau was shortened due to stormy weather rolling through. In effect, the glorified practice before more than 43,000 fans amounted to three drives by the number one offense versus the number two defense. It lasted perhaps about 20 minutes. But at least after the storm cleared, fans were treated to the promised fireworks...not of the football variety...real fireworks.

So, what can we take from this all-too-brief team scrimmage?

Firstly, rookie T/G Derek Sherrod, at 6'5" and 321 lbs., looked huge playing left guard, where the Packers have been working him extensively the first week of camp. Looks as if he has good movement. Definitely has the size to play left tackle but that is still veteran Chad Clifton's job, although Marshall Newhouse filled in at that spot last evening.

Second-year running back James Starks looks a bit bigger -- supposedly he added about 15 pounds of muscle according to some reports -- and extremely quick. He had a couple runs last evening, one in particular, where he waited for the lane to open and with what seemed like two quick steps was through the defense. Very fast and explosive. Great to see veteran Ryan Grant back, as well. But if Starks continues to display this combination of explosive moves and speed it might be hard to keep the ball out of his hands. Combined with Grant and rookie Alex Green -- who the coaches are also high on -- defenses will be hard pressed to defend both the run and the Packers' passing game.

Speaking of the passing game, it was great to see James Jones back. Jordy Nelson made a nice catch on a fade route in the endzone for a TD. And rookie Randall Cobb -- another one the coaches are pleased with at this point -- made a nice move on an underthrown ball. He's going to add another element for defenders to worry about downfield.

QB Aaron Rodgers looked as if he was getting into rhythm with new receivers and never missed a beat with his long-time receivers.

Defensively, we didn't get a chance to see the number ones last night. So can't really say much on this side of the ball. Except that undrafted rookie free agent CB Brandian Ross made a nice read on Aaron Rodgers' first pass of the evening, jumped it, and wound up getting an interception return for a pick-6 TD. No Lambeau Leap, though...hey, he's a rookie. He said in post-scrimmage comments that Charles Woodson, Tramon Williams and other veteran defensive backs had been helping him along. Appeared as if he was listening to whatever they were telling him. Given the logjam at cornerback, Ross might be a longshot to make the the team. But he's someone to keep your eye on. Seemed very thoughtful, respectful, and has instincts for the position. He'll have a job somewhere if not in Green Bay.

That's about all we could get out of last night's scrimmage. Unfortunately, especially for the rookies, they weren't able to get more repetitions. But Coach McCarthy and the Packers err on the side of keeping the players healthy and safe. The team is off today as, under the new collective bargaining agreement, they are only allowed to practice four days in a row. They'll be back to work Monday. Friday is an off day which will see the Super Bowl champs visiting the White House to be honored by the President (and Da Bearz fan). Saturday they'll be in Cleveland for the first preseason game of the new football year.

Football. You gotta love it. Glad it's back!

Go Pack Go!!!

Brandon Jackson goes to Browns

Green Bay Packers veteran third-down running back and unrestricted free agent, Brandon Jackson, has signed a two-year contract worth $4.5 million with the Cleveland Browns according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Given the return of Ryan Grant, the emergence last season of James Starks, and the drafting of Hawaii running back Alex Green, it was almost a given that Jackson might look for a deal elsewhere. He always wanted to be an every-down back, and had been given the opportunity to be just that in Green Bay on occasion, but was best suited to protecting Aaron Rodgers in third down pass blocking situations and to being a relief valve in the passing game.

With the drafting of a few receivers and tight ends who could fill Jackson's shoes as an H-back in specific situations, Jackson's role in the offense might very well have been diminished. The Packers obviously were thinking much the same thing.

Thank you, Mr. Jackson for your good and valuable service to the Green Bay Packers. Good luck in Cleveland.

Spitz heading to Jacksonville
There is further late breaking news this evening that C Jason Spitz has signed a multi-year deal with the Jaguars. Thanks and good luck, Mr. Spitz.

More departures and signings expected...hard to keep up! But we'll do our best.

Packers vs. Dolphins Preview

The Miami Dolphins pay a visit to Lambeau Field today to meet the Green Bay Packers. The Fish are 2-2, the Pack 3-2. Believe it or not, the Dolphins lead the all-time series 9-3. But today, the Packers are listed as 3-1/2 point favorites, basically as a result of the home field advantage.

The Dolphins come in healthy and off their bye week. The NFL schedulers really dropped a gift in their laps by having them visit Green Bay on a balmy 60-degree mid-October day. (Gee, couldn't it have been in mid-December? What's a couple months among friends, right?)

But the Pack, as the entire football world is aware, has...oh...just a few injury issues to deal with. On both sides of the ball. And that will undoubtedly affect the game. A few players on defense that could perhaps play -- e.g., Clay Matthews and Ryan Pickett -- probably won't. This is a non-division, non-conference game. It won't figure in most tiebreaker situations. Not that you don't always want to get the "W". But when do you want Matthews and others available? For the Fish? Or next weekend versus the ViQueens? Please. Let's get 'em as healthy as possible for the game against the 'Queens.

While it's not final until gametime, QB Aaron Rodgers is expected to get the OK to play. That's a big plus for the offense, although the game plan likely won't feature the emphasis on the play of the tight ends quite as much with the loss of Jermichael Finley and, possibly for this game, Donald Lee, although he's listed as "probable" on the injury list. The wide receivers will need to do a much better job than they did against Washington, where they had seven dropped passes. On the line, rookie Bryan Bulaga will once again get the start at right tackle in place of an ailing Mark Tauscher.

And the running game? Wha-a-a...??? The Pack has a running game? Yes, it just hasn't been counted on much this season -- especially after the first-game loss of Ryan Grant -- so no reason to expect that to change now. As a matter of fact, there's a good article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about head coach Mike McCarthy's commitment, or lack thereof, to the running game. Great insights into the coach's mindset, using his own words to have a look inside, so to speak.

As for the Packers' defense, that's where the injuries will show up against a capable Fish offense. The absence of Matthews, Pickett, Brandon Chillar and Nick Barnett (who is done for the season) leave the Pack with basically its second unit linebacking corps and perhaps even rookie C. J. Wilson starting on the line for the still-injured Mike Neal. The Fish have a two-headed running attack with Ronnie Brown and Rickie "One Toke Over the Line" Williams. The primary receiving threat is Brandon Marshall, who is a good one. Starting QB Chad Henne has a strong arm but is a bit cumbersome in the pocket and, in only his second season as a starting QB, still locks onto receivers a bit too often. If the Packers could generate any pash rush today they could create some turnovers. But against a very good offensive line, and with the Pack's best pass rushers out, that type of rush doesn't seem very likely.

The Dolphins got beat 41-14 in their game versus New England the week before their bye. Thirty-five of the Patriots' points came in the second half. Hmmm...considering that the Packers seem to have a second-half drop off in most games so far this season, that certainly doesn't mean much.

Given that the Packers' special teams are yet again in flux because of the injuries to key players and the movement of some special teams players into those starting or key back up roles, don't count on much out of this unit today. But again, we haven't really counted on much from them most of the season. So anything we get in the way of returns from Tramon Williams, Jordy Nelson or whomever the coaches decide to throw back there today is a bonus. On the flip side, it's possible coverage units could give up big yardage because of the new mix of players.

Could the Pack rise to the occasion, kind of like a wounded rogue elephant, and pull out a victory at home today? It's possible. But I think the injury situation for the Packers just might be too much to overcome. The Packers have lost -- given away -- two games they should have won. Here's a game today that, by all counts, they should probably lose.

This game is one of those toss-up games for me. My head says the Fish will swim out of Lambeau with a victory because of the state of the triage unit known as the Packers. My heart, of course, bleeds Green 'n' Gold and says somehow, someway, the Pack will get a much-needed "W". This is one time when a score prediction eludes me. It's much more basic than that.

Go Pack Go!!!

Hard week ahead for decimated Packers

Coming off a heartbreaking -- and injury-riddled -- loss in overtime to the Washington Redskins, the Green Bay Packers this week are probably going to be spending as much time getting medical evaluations as practicing.

The Pack limped into the game already having a couple starters lost for the season, namely RB Ryan Grant and S Morgan Burnett, while a decision about season-ending wrist surgery is still in the air concerning LB Nick Burnett (and just for good measure, let's remember Justin Harrell, as well, while we're on the subject). A few other players were out for the game, including RT Mark Tauscher, LB Brandon Chillar, S Sam Shields, and FB Quinn Johnson.

By the end of the game, they had lost TE Jermichael Finley (possibly for 2-3 weeks...and that's the optimistic view!), TE Donald Lee, DE Ryan Pickett, LB Clay Matthews, CB and special teams demon Derrick Martin (may be the most serious with an ankle injury), and LB Frank Zombo.

Oh yes, let's not forget the concussion which QB Aaron Rodgers sustained supposedly on his last throw (intercepted) where he clearly had head-to-head contact from the defender (with no flag at all, of course...just like the blow to the head no-call in the playoff game loss at Arizona). So in order for Rodgers to be available for the upcoming game against Miami, he's going to have to clear a number of tests before he gets the OK to play.

Ryan Pickett was quoted as saying, "I've not been part of anything like this that so many guys are injured...It's never been this bad. I've never experienced it in my 10 years."

The bottom line right now is that a team which many picked to go not only to but to win the Super Bowl based upon its talented roster now seems like it's on life support. The injuries are everywhere. Not what you want as you head into one of the toughest stretches of the schedule: Dolphins, ViQueens, Jets, and Cowgirls. It's a month before the Packers get their bye week. And, even without any other players going down, the Pack might be hard pressed to win another game before that bye week.

Yes, injuries played a big part in yesterday's loss by the Packers. You can't lose two of your top playmakers -- Finley and Matthews -- and not have it affect the outcome. But the Packers just left too many opportunities on the field. Failing to push it into the endzone when you have 1st and goal from the 2-yard line, with a chance to go up 14-0 early, just left the door open for the 'skins to hang around. It never should have come down to K Mason Crosby needing to hit a 53-yarder at the close of regulation to win that game. Never. Yes, he was 2 of 4 on the day and needs to make those kicks. But the Pack also needs to convert 3rd downs -- they didn't -- and not give their opponent multiple 1st downs through penalties.

And when, oh when, will the Packers ever get their special teams together?!

The consistent pattern we see emerging in and across games is not the pattern we want to see: fast start, followed by tailing off in the second half, little to no commitment to the running game by head coach Mike McCarthy, and continued penalties and lapses at critical junctures of a game.

Yes, as the players say, they feel they should be 5-0 right now instead of 3-2. But truth be told, they could also just as easily be 1-4 right now. The Buffalo game was the only game that has been a complete, or nearly complete, game by this team. By the time you hit game #5 of the schedule you should know who you are and what you can do and do it in a consistent way. The Packers just aren't.

Granted, the injuries started taking their toll early and often this season on the Pack. And now, it's gotten even worse. The prognosis for the immediate future is not a good one. There are still 11 games remaining. But it's possible, given the injuries let alone other problems which seem to be plaguing this team, that the Packers could go into their bye week at 3-6. They would likely have to win out in order to have a shot at the playoffs. And that's not a position in which you wish to find yourself.

The mettle of this team, coaching staff and management is going to be tested this week and over the coming month. The Packers' season could very well be riding on what happens in these next four games.