2018 NFL Week 9: Packers at Patriots Preview & Prediction

Last weekend's excruciating loss to the LA Rams was the stuff of much conversation this past week, locally and nationally. Specifically, veteran Ty Montgomery's decision with about 2 minutes remaining in the game and the Packers trailing by 2 points to take a kickoff out of the end zone after coaches had reportedly told him to take a knee. He didn't. A fumble occurred. Recovered by the Rams. Game over. No chance for one of those patented Aaron Rodgers last second comebacks. Crushing. Give the man the benefit of the doubt that he was trying to make a play. Unfortunately, he took that same opportunity out of the hands of the best player on the field, Mr. Rodgers.

I had opined on Twitter afterward that if Lombardi was the coach Montgomery would have already been cut for that type of disobedience. Well, the Pack didn't cut him, but two days later did trade him to Baltimore for a 7th round draft pick and, we're guessing, a case of cheese curds.

Wow. It was a horrible loss, make no mistake, especially for a game the Packers were certainly in a position to win. But that's been the nature of this season. So close. But...not. And the team is sitting at 3-3-1 going into its game against the 6-2 New England Patriots on the Pats' home turf in less than 2 hours from this writing.

The Packers are again counting on rookie CB phenom Jaire Alexander
to have another big game tonight, this time against Tom Brady and the Patriots.
(Photo: packersnews.com)

Prediction

The Packers are 5-1/2-point underdogs at the time of this writing. Not many are giving the Packers any chance this evening and, to be fair, they really haven't demonstrated that they can play a complete game. But last week, against the undefeated Rams, on the road, they should have won. And I believe they will tonight against all odds.

The Pats are expected to be missing their starting right guard and have other key players also as questionable tonight, including some receivers and Brady fave, TE Rob Gronkowski. So if the Packers can take advantage of those shortcomings -- oh, and did we mention the Pack will also be playing for the first time in a long time without DB Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, who also got traded during the week? -- the team should come away with a hard fought win.

If the Pack wants to have any chance of even being able to grab a wildcard spot given current standings, they need this win. Going to 3-4-1 would mean the Pack would have to likely go at least 6-2 in their remaining games. Could they get hot? Yes. But given what we have seen so far, that's iffy. The wiggle room provided by being 4-3-1 going into games against Miami and Seattle and beyond would be huge. The Packers need this game in the win column when it's all said and done.

We're calling it Packers 34 - Patriots 31.

Go Pack Go!!!

2018 NFL Week 5: Packers vs. Lions Preview & Prediction

That was a nice shutout last weekend of a Buffalo team that just the week before had whomped the Minnesota ViQueens, wasn't it, Packers fans? You bet. 22-0 is nothing to sneeze at, even while QB Aaron Rodgers wasn't happy with the offensive performance and made that feeling known. He and head coach Mike McCarthy are, though, according to the latter, both on the same page. Good to know.

That will be important in today's game against the Lions in Detroit because the receiving game may be, how shall we say, challenged. That's because WR Randall Cobb and Geronimo Allison are out and Davante Adams is questionable in reality if not officially. As such, rookies Marquez Valdes-Scantling, J’Mon Moore and Equanimious St. Brown will have to step up. If that becomes shaky, the Packers running game will need to step up the pace. RB Aaron Jones -- who needs and deserves the ball more -- along with Jamaal Williams and Ty Montgomery can fill the bill. If McCarthy lets the running game get more reps, that is. The offense will always run through Rodgers, of course, as it should. But if the receiving corps is shorthanded today, let's hope the rushing attack gets its fair share of play calls.

The Packers defense needs to get to Lions QB Matthew Stafford
today just as it has done in the past.
(Photo: USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

Defensively, we saw a more aggressive scheme -- or at least, performance -- last week than in prior weeks. Let's hope that approach and energy continues today. The Packers will need to get pressure on Lions QB Matthew Stafford because if given too much time he will pick apart a defense. Under pressure, he'll give you an opportunity for turnovers. The Pack will need at least one today to help make the difference. The Lions may have only won one game so far -- against the Patriots...go figure -- but they are an explosive team. You really don't know what to expect. But with the Packers at 2-1-1, we can really say pretty much the same about them right now, particularly with the injury situation.

The Prediction

The Packers are favored by 1 point at the time of this writing with the over-under at 51 points, so the oddsmakers are expecting a high-scoring and close game. We do, too.

We're calling it Packers 27 - Lions 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

2017 NFL Week 11: Packers vs. Ravens

First, let's just acknowledge that the Green Bay Packers did what they needed to do last weekend in Chicago: win. In doing so, the Pack stopped a three-game losing streak and beat a team that -- with or without Aaron Rodgers at quarterback -- the Packers should beat. They also kept alive playoff hopes, staying alive at 5-4 and two games behind the ViQueens in the NFC North. In doing so, we also perhaps saw some glimpses of what QB Brett Hundley can do...at least occasionally. But the Packers also lost two running backs, Ty Montgomery and Aaron Jones, as well as their starting right tackle, Bryan Bulaga.

Which brings us to today's game at Lambeau Field against the Baltimore Ravens. It's a bit of a mixed bag meets a bit of a mixed bag. That's because, like the 5-4 Packers, the 4-5 Ravens have a little bit of this going for them and a little bit of that, too.

Ravens QB Joe Flacco isn't having a great year, but he still has a great arm and, lest we forget, is a Super Bowl-winning quarterback. In short, against a porous secondary and a defensive front without a pass rush, Flacco could display the arm that sees him earning the big -- and some would say, overpaid -- bucks.

Damarious Randall and the rest of the Packers secondary
will have to play exceptionally well today to keep
Ravens' QB Joe Flacco and his receivers in check.
(Photo: Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

The Ravens defense, especially coming off a bye week, is a good one and will certainly throw everything it can at the still-inexperienced Brett Hundley. The Packers will need Jamaal Williams, the now starter at running back, and Devante Mays -- getting his first NFL carries -- to take pressure off Hundley with a solid rushing attack. At the same time, Hundley will need to be more decisive early in the game than he's shown to date. It seems that in his first outings as starting QB, Hundley does better in two-minute drills and pressure situations. A sense of urgency needs to kick in much sooner or this could be a game that gets away from the Packers early.

The Prediction
The Ravens are favored by 2 points at the time of this writing. We do think this is a toss up game. The Packers are inexperienced in the offensive backfield and the Ravens big defensive front and experienced secondary would seem to be able to cause enough problems for both the running and passing games of the Packers.

But...if the Packers are able to keep this game close, we think that they will make one more play than will the Ravens.

We're calling this Packers 20 - Ravens 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

P.S. How 'bout them Wisconsin Badgers?! 11-0! Go Badgers! On Wisconsin!

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 5: Packers vs. Cowboys

It's been 10 days or so since we last saw our beloved Green Bay Packers take to the field. As you'll recall, they beat Da Bearz at Lambeau on a Thursday night "Rush" uniform game...still hate that whole "Rush" uniform concept. And, of course, we're not fond of Da Bearz, either.

So coming out of the first quarter of the season the Packers are 3-1. If you look back to our season prediction for the Pack, that's right where we had them: 3-1. So there's that.

But what about today? What about Jerry's Kids, the 'boys? How are the Packers going to handle things in Dallas later this afternoon?

The Packers will need a big day from Jordy Nelson and help from

Davante Adams and others for the team to win in Dallas today.

(Photo: Jim Matthews/USATODAY NETWORK-Wi)

The Cowboys are favored by 2 points, staked to a point less than the usual home field advantage. They have a big and aggressive defensive line which could present problems for the Pack, particularly if the team is again without its two starting tackles. Both Bryan Bulaga and David Bakhtiari are listed as questionable today; we may seem them some, little or not at all. 

WR Davante Adams has -- believe it or not -- cleared the NFL concussion protocol following that brutal hit in the Chicago game and may be able to play today. The same can't be said for RB Ty Montgomery. Broken ribs don't seem to recover quite as quickly as a concussion...although the comparative long-term effects of the latter...? Let's not go there today. So it will be the three rookie running backs who will be charged with getting something, anything, done on the ground to keep the 'boys from teeing off on QB Aaron Rodgers, especially behind what may still be a makeshift offensive line. Still, if the Packers are able to develop a bit of a running game, the line is able to protect, Rodgers could have a big day against the Dallas secondary. Lots of "ifs" there.

Defensively, the Packers may get Mike Daniels back today in some capacity. Even a little of Daniels is better than a lot of some other players so we'll take whatever he is able to give, particularly in the way of helping slow down Dallas RB Ezekiel Elliot. It will also be interesting to see if DB Damarious Randall sees much playing time today after his hissy fit during Da Bearz game which resulted in him spending a chunk of the game in the locker room after being sent off by Packers coaches. Let's hope he uses this incident as positive motivation.

The Prediction

On to the reason you're here: the prediction for today's game. We're seeing this as a being a close game through the first half, perhaps well into the third quarter. But we think the Packers have the tools to pull away at some point.

We're calling it Packers 30 - Cowboys 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

2017 NFL Week 4: Packers vs. Bears Preview and Prediction

The Green Bay Packers overcame an extremely sluggish and sloppy first half to escape last Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals with an overtime victory on field goal by Mason Crosby set up by an amazing 73-yard catch and run by Geronimo Allison.

The Packers are, at this early stage of the season, not what they'd like to be or probably expected to be. After coming through training camp and pre-season relatively healthy, they have been beset with injuries galore from game one on. None are more concerning than those affecting the offensive line, i.e., the protectors of QB Aaron Rodgers. It's still not clear whether even one of the starting tackles will actually be able to play even some of tonight's game. And the primary back-up at tackle -- Kyle Murphy -- also went on Injured Reserve after the game. The options are thinning. Not a way you want to go into a game against what is a not-bad defensive front on the part of tonight's opponent, Da Bearz.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers will have have another

of his standout games against Chicago tonight.

(Photo: Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

The Prediction

Since this is a short week of preparation for the Packers, we'll make this preview short, as well. Both teams are coming off unseasonably hot games in their home stadiums, in wich they both won in overtime. Chicago has two young running backs who are trying to make names for themselves and doing a good job of it so far. The Packers have, well, Aaron Rodgers and a host of exceptional receiving talent. Defenses each have their strengths. Given that the Packers playing at home, and with their offense -- beat up as the line is -- the oddsmakers are setting the spread at 7 points in favor of the Pack.

The Pack will likely have to use their tight ends more to assist in protection than in the receiving game. If running back Ty Montgomery can get going, or one of the Pack's other young running backs can get enough carries and yards to help keep Da Bearz from teeing off on Rodgers every play, the Pack could have a bit of an easier time at it.

But we think it's going to be a close game unless the Pack can somehow jump out to an early lead...which has not really been its M.O. this season or in recent years for that matter.

We're calling it Packers 24 - Bears 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!!!

NFL NFC Championship: Packers vs. Falcons preview and prediction

After the epic win in Dallas in the NFC Divisional Playoff, and for the second time in three years, the Green Bay Packers are in the NFC Championship Game. As Packers fans, we can only hope and pray that this game turns out better than the last (the horror...the horr0r...).

We awoke to good news for starters: according to the NFL Network, wide receivers Jordy Nelson, Davante Adams and Geronimo Allison are all expected to play today. This was very much in question over the last few days as all have been nursing injuries, none more so than Nelson who has two broken ribs. The thinking might be (OK, this is my thinking) that even if Nelson can only be on the field part of the time, and not even be thrown to (to try to protect those ribs), he will have to be covered; that takes one defender away from another receiver who could perhaps otherwise receive double coverage. In other words, Nelson as decoy. The Pack have three additional receivers active today (not including Ty Montgomery), which is one more than typical...for insurance purposes, it would seem.

The Packers need to get pumped and play 60 minutes of outstanding football -- on both sides of the ball -- to win today.
Photo by Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
It is interesting to note, however, that the Packers did elevate one of their practice squad receivers yesterday to the 53-man roster: Max McCaffrey. (If that name sounds familiar it is because he is the son of former Pro Bowl receiver Ed McCaffrey and the older brother of Christian McCaffrey, whom we know is currently projected as a first-round pick in this year's NFL draft.) The Pack signed him to the practice squad in December after he was released by the Raiders. He was undrafted out of Duke and has yet to play in an NFL game. To make room for McCaffrey, the Packers put center JC Tretter on the injured reserve list.

The Packers, fortunately, have great depth at receiver and that depth will be needed today. Of course, the Pack also has TE Jared Cook who has been nothing short of amazing since returning from injury earlier in the season. Recall that he did not play in the earlier loss to the Falcons, nor did Montgomery. It's all hands on deck.

Atlanta is averaging over 35 points per game at home. The Falcons earlier season win against the Pack was by one point, 33-32. So stop the presses! There will be points scored today. The record for points for a NFL championship game is 73. We believe it will be more than that today.

Neither of these two teams boasts outstanding defenses. Both are near the bottom of the standings. Atlanta is actually 32nd in red zone defense. So the more often the Packers can get into the red zone, the better. Pass protection for both teams is very good. Atlanta is the only team in the league that has had all five starters on the offensive line start every game this season. Amazing. The Packers O-line give Rodgers time to work outside of the pocket and find receivers downfield. So it's going to be an offensive battle and the defense that can generate a turnover or two, or make a stop, is likely the team that will come out on top. It may very well come down to "whoever has the ball last wins," just like last weekend versus the Cowboys. So get your heart medication ready again, Packer fans.

It's getting close to about 2 hours to game time and we could go on and on. But we won't. Let's get to the prediction.

The Prediction
You've already read here and elsewhere that the expectation is for a high-scoring game. The Falcons are favored by 5 points, which seems a bit off, despite Atlanta coming into this game arguably as hot as the Packers. It is the final game in the George Dome so that might generate some additional energy for a while for the Dirty Birds. But if the Packers can get out early as they did last weekend, and the defense can get a turnover or two and make some key stops -- don't let that two-headed running attack of the Falcons get going, for example -- Rodgers and company should come out on top. Ty Montgomery should have a big day...and not just because it's his 24th birthday. Mike McCarthy will have a game plan in place to take advantage of the defense's weaknesses. Dom Capers will be as creative as he can be given the walking MASH unit that is the Packers' secondary. And if it comes down to the leg of kicker Mason Crosby, say it with me, "It's good!". (By the way, there's a great story about Crosby by Ryan Wood of the USA-Today Network-Wisconsin. Really gives you great insight into the mind of a kicker...especially this kicker.)

The Pack will be packing for Houston after this game's over. We're calling this one Packers 41 - Falcons 38.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL NFC Divisional Playoffs: Packers vs. Cowboys Preview and Prediction

Today's the day, Packer fans: the Green Packers take on the Dallas Cowboys in Dallas for the right to meet the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC Championship Game next weekend. How are you feeling about today's game? If you have mixed feelings, you are clearly not alone. On the other hand, if you're riding high off the Pack's seven-game winning streak you'll see them as an unstoppable force no matter what. So let's look at just a few particulars to consider.

Head coach Mike McCarthy and QB Aaron Rodgers
need to come up big today against the Cowboys.
Photo by Rick Wood, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Offenses
Deserving of all the praise it gets, the Dallas offense ranks fifth in the league overall in terms of both points scored (26.3) and yards per game (376.7). It is 23rd-ranked in terms of passing yards per game (226.9), which might be expected behind a rookie quarterback...a very good one, admittedly. Where the team gets its bump up the rankings comes via the rushing game and another outstanding rookie, Ezekiel Elliott. The 'boys generate 149.8 rushing yards per game, giving them the number two spot overall in terms of rushing attack. While QB Dak Prescott and Elliott may get the headlines, it's the Cowboys offensive line that provides the basis for everything that happens behind it. Led by Travis Frederick at center (both a southeastern Wisconsin native and UW-Madison Badger, by the way), this was and still is the best offensive line the Packers have faced all season. The Packers defense will need to keep the mojo going the way they did in the win against the Giants at Lambeau last weekend in order to stay in the game today. Elliott could take over the game if the Pack doesn't play the game of their season so far. Add to the offensive mix the fact that number one receiver Dez Bryant will return to play today. Coming off a week's rest, Dallas will put up points, no doubt.

As for the Packers offense, the Pack actually ranks ahead of the 'boys in terms of points scored during the regular season, at 27 points per game (4th overall). The Packers are a few spots behind Dallas, at number 8, in terms of yardage per game: 368.8. Not surprisingly, behind the arm of Aaron Rodgers and the hands of his many capable receivers, the Pack finished seventh overall in terms of passing yards per game: 262.4. The rushing game ranks 20th overall with 106.3 yards per game behind an efficient, albeit not explosive, attack now led by Ty Montgomery. Christine Michael, having now been with the team for sufficient time to get the playbook down, also offers a burst and rushing threat the Pack didn't have in the first match up. And, of course, FB Aaron Ripkowski can move the pile and also provide a pass outlet for Rodgers if needed. The Packers offensive line doesn't get the credit it deserves for its incredible protection given to Rodgers, allowing him time to move in and out of the pocket to find his receivers downfield. One of the strategies Dallas used in its October win over the Pack at Lambeau -- and will try to use again today -- was to keep Rodgers in the pocket. There's no secret to the fact that Rodgers is at his most dangerous when he breaks out of the pocket to scramble and find his receivers. The Cowboys frustrated Rodgers and the Packers offense in the first meeting. We'd expect Dallas to apply the same strategy as before and also expect the Packers to make adjustments. One of the biggest adjustments in that regard today will be playing without WR Jordy Nelson who was injured in the game against New York. Luckily, Randall Cobb returned in good form last weekend, Davante Adams is making big plays and undrafted rookie Geronimo Allison is in position to have a breakout game if other receivers are covered. Add another weapon the Pack didn't have in the first match up: TE Jared Cook. Cook's return from injury has coincided a great deal with the Pack's winning streak. Coincidence? We think not. Finally, neither the Packers nor the 'boys turn the ball over much; Rodgers, in particular, has been amazing during the winning streak, with no interceptions vs. the touchdowns thrown. That trend must continue today. So does the need for the Pack to get at least one or two takeaways. The Dallas strategy will be to keep Rodgers on the sideline by running the ball as much as it can to eat the clock and thus play defense by playing great offense.The Packers -- like Dallas -- will put up points, no doubt.

Defenses
Let's just cut to the chase here and say that the Dallas defense ranks higher than the Pack, 14th overall vs. 22nd. In terms of each statistical category, Dallas ranks ahead of the Pack. So given basically a "push" in terms of offenses (for argument sake), shouldn't the nod go to the team with the better defense? You'd think so. But one of the elements which factored heavily into the earlier Dallas win was an inept Packers offense that still hadn't found itself...AND...four turnovers by the Pack. You may be surprised that the Packers actually ranked ahead of the 'boys in terms of season turnover differential. This is particularly the case, as fans know, for the Packers during their winning streak. The Packers tied with several other teams for second in terms of interceptions, with 17. Defensive back Damarious Randall appeared on the injury report yesterday and just how much he's able to play, and at what level, is a concern given the already thin defensive backfield. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers has done a masterful job of cobbling together a defense given the injuries. The Packers will need a pass rush as well as run stuffers today. Veterans Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers need to play at the level they are capable of, that is disrupting the other team. The Packers defense has often given up yardage...big yardage on big plays. As long as touchdowns don't accompany all of those big yards, the Packers are in it. That will have to be the case again today: bend don't break.

The Prediction
We could go on and on, of course. But your head is already spinning, we know. Whether from all the data presented here or pre-game tailgating, we don't know. But either way, let's get to it, shall we?

The Packers will need to do something they really haven't done in the past three weeks, which is get out to a fast start. If they are able to do that, that will go a long way to easing the pressure on the defense to win this game...which, in fact, is something they may need to do anyway: come up with a couple big stops. But forcing Dallas to win behind a rookie QB in his first playoff game is preferable to having to grind it out against trying to stop a running back of Elliott's calibre.

The Packers will need to play their best game of the season on offense, defense and special teams to walk out of Dallas with the win. Luckily for Packer fans, they have been doing just that in recent weeks. They'll do it again today.

We're calling this one Packers 34-31 over Dallas.

Go Pack Go!!!

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2016 NFL Week 17: Packers vs. Lions Preview and Prediction

Happy New Year, Packers fans and those who wish they were! (And, yes, even though the headline says 2016, hopefully you woke up realizing that we are now in the year 2017. Just for a point of reference for those of you who perhaps aren't quite sure right now.) Oh, and in case you were wondering, the Pack beat Minnesota last weekend to set up tonight's division battle. Now that we have that bit of housekeeping taken care of, let's move along, shall we?

The NFL schedule makers really pulled one out of their ying-yangs when they set the final weekend schedule with the Green Bay Packers facing the Detroit Lions, didn't they? Yes, division games have been going on for the last few weeks, but they could have scheduled the lemming-like Minnesota ViQueens or that semi-pro team from Illinois. Instead, the league rolled the dice and set a match between the Pack and the Lions.

Packers and Lions head coaches, Mike McCarthy and Jim Caldwell,
prepare to dance, at least metaphorically, tonight.
Photo by Rick Wood, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
A Refresher of Sorts
You'll remember at the start of the season that the Packers were one of the odds-on favorites to go to and, in some quarters, win the Super Bowl. They were favored in virtually every game of the season...before the season began, that is. Detroit was projected to be a playoff team by some, perhaps even a division championship contender and maybe even a Super Bowl contender (a stretch, c'mon). But then teams have to play. The Packers, due to a rash of injuries at key positions, the inability of the offense to find an identity by mid-season and that of the defense to stop big plays particularly late in games, found themselves sitting at 4-6 at their low point after four consecutive losses.

As for the Lions, they were one of the early surprises of the season. Behind in seemingly most of their games, they somehow managed eight fourth-quarter comebacks in their nine wins, an NFL record. With the Pack stuck in the mud, the 'Queens fading after key injuries of their own and Da Bearz still sucking as usual, Detroit jumped out to a two-game division lead for a few games. But coupled with their own two-game road losing streak in Weeks 15 and 16 along with the Packers' resurrection and five-game winning streak down the stretch, the Lions now find themselves tied at 9-6 with the Pack going into this final regular season game...although technically, the Packers have the tie-breaker at this point because of their 34-27 September win at Lambeau Field.

Tonight's Game
Contrary to what some surmise, this is not a "winner-take-all" game, although the build-up to it certainly makes one view it that way. And, perhaps, that's the way the teams and fans should look at it. Winning, for either the Packers or Lions (eeeeewwwww!) gives that team the NFC North Division Championship and a guaranteed home playoff game. But even with a loss, it's possible that that team could still grab a wildcard spot depending upon whether Washington wins or loses today. With a Washington loss, both the Packers and Lions can grab a spot in the playoffs regardless of whether they win or lose. But a win is just so much better, don't you think? Especially if it is the sixth win in a row, led by an offense that is really clicking and a defense that, while suspect, can do just enough to keep an opponent from outscoring the offense. We are, of course, talking about the Packers taking this game for the NFC North Division Championship.

The Packers have gotten healthier over the last several games, especially QB Aaron Rodgers, TE Jared Cook and LB Clay Matthews. Yay. WR Randall Cobb is expected to be in uniform tonight but he may not play much or at all as he's still nursing his injury from a few weeks ago. If the Packers do make a playoff run, a healthy Cobb would be an asset. In his stead, the receiving corp may see more play from rookie Geronimo Allison, who is a big target and caught several passes in last week's win against the ViQueens. It appears as if he and Rodgers are starting build a chemistry and that bodes well short and long-term.

The biggest absence for the Packers this game, as it has been all season, is CB Sam Shields. The secondary has really not had anyone step up to come close to replacing him in terms of consistent pass coverage and closing speed ability. Plays have been made in the recent wins, particularly by Ha Ha Clinton-Dix. But neither of the second-year players, Damarious Randall or Quinten Rollins, has lived up to year-two expectations. Randall, by the way, is questionable for tonight's game. If there has been one constant in the secondary, and generally an overlooked one at that, it has been the play of LaDarius Gunter.

The question mark for the Packers tonight and into the playoffs is their secondary. They have made fourth quarters a Pepto Bismol time for Packer fans everywhere most of the season, playing soft and giving up big plays particularly over the middle. Lions QB Matthew Stafford, despite his recently dislocated middle finger on his passing hand, and the Lions generally proving to themselves and others that they can come from behind late to win games, can take this game down to the wire; he's done it before against the Packers and others.

If the Packers don't put up points early -- and throughout the game -- the defensive question mark as the game goes into the fourth quarter becomes more of a concern. You don't want to keep the Lions hanging around, as the saying goes. The Packers should be able to force Stafford into making at least one turnover somewhere during the game and that may be the difference. Getting a turnover or two in games has been key during the Packers' winning streak, and it may be so again tonight.

Conversely, Detroit can also put up points with Stafford and his receiving corp. The running game doesn't count for much at this point, but the Packers will need a consistent pass rush to pressure Stafford into a bad throw or two. If you give him time, he has the arm to make you pay for bad coverage or an ineffective pass rush. The Packers' front seven needs to really bring it tonight.

Defensively, however, the Lions should be able to be exploited by the Packers offense, particularly if Detroit's top defensive back, Darius Slay, is slowed by his hamstring injury. He'll probably try to go and, if so, look for the Packers to test his coverage ability early. Without Slay, Rodgers should be able to take advantage of that secondary. The Lions linebackers are nicked up, too, so that should open up the middle if the Pack decides to spread things around. Based upon recent history, that's a reasonable expectation today.

Also look for RBs Ty Montgomery and Christine Michael to keep the Lions off balance with a solid rushing game. During the Packers stretch run, the balance between the number of rushing plays and pass plays called by McCarthy has been part of the formula. On a fast track of indoor turf, it would be great to see what Christine Michael might be able to do if he gets loose. We think even the Packers coaches are interested in seeing what might transpire in that regard.

The Prediction
We view this as a high-scoring game. The Packers are favored by 3 points at the time of this writing. We see the Pack going up in the first half and then holding on in the fourth quarter for the win. These are the recent trends for both teams. We'll go with that.

We're calling it 38-34 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

2016 NFL Week 16: Packers vs. Vikings Preview and Prediction

All Packers fans want for Christmas is a win over the Vikings today at Lambeau Field. Yes, that's about the best present anyone could wish for this weekend. Because that would set up the New Year's Day contest in Detroit for the NFC North Division Championship and a guaranteed home playoff game. Sugar plum fairies and 12 drummers drumming haven't got anything on that scenario!

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers looks to continue his run
of big passing games against the Vikings.
Photo by Jim Matthews
The Packers look to have a healthier Aaron Rodgers, Clay Matthews and Lane Taylor back today. That will be a boost, as will the continued strong play of RB (no longer receiver) Ty Montgomery, TE Jared Cook, and the Pack's receiving corps. Let's not forget the consistently great play of the Packers' offensive line, as well. They should give Rodgers plenty of time today against a good-but-not-great ViQueens defense.

But perhaps the key today will be the play of the Packers' secondary against Minnesota's offense. Damarious Randall got torched in the first meeting against Minnesota. He's play better since, but was pulled from the game last week against Da Bearz after repeatedly failing in coverage late in the game. The secondary overall was responsible for soft coverage against a lackluster Chicago offense, allowing them back in the game with 17 points given up in the fourth quarter. To be fair, the Packers' pass rush was non-existent, as well. That troubling scenario played out in the first meeting with Minnesota, too, giving then newly-arrived QB Sam Bradford more than enough time to be proficient in his reads and throws, in no small measure leading to the win over the Pack.

Minnesota got embarrassed last weekend against the Colts and no doubt head coach Mike Zimmer has used this as a motivational tool for today's game against the Pack. But if the Packers come out with a fast start and keep the pressure on for a full 60 minutes instead of just 30 or 45, the ViQueens should fold. The Packers are healthier at this point and are ascending at the right time will the 'Queens are going the opposite direction to finish out the season, with virtually no hope of making the playoffs. The absence of RB Adrian Peterson today also doesn't help their chances.

The Prediction
Perhaps a good omen for the Packers -- or at least a bad one for Minnesota -- is the fact that the ViQueens plane ran off the runway at the Appleton airport while taxiing to the terminal last evening. They were stuck on the plane for more than 3 hours. I know: that's a shame. Let's hope for a similarly distressing occurence or two to happen to them today during the game.

The Packers are favored by 7 points at the time of this writing. That should be achievable.

We're calling this game 34-20 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!! And Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christimas, too!

Packers outlast Bears, Vikings next up

That was quite a game in Chicago wasn't it, Packers fans? Turned out not to be the coldest game in Packers-Bears history after all. Only about the fourth coldest. But it was certainly a hot time on the field from start to finish.

The Packers were able to jump out to what seemed like a "There's...your...dagger!" lead before the end of the third quarter. Behind a 160+ - yard running game by Ty Montgomery, and a solid offensive performance overall (despite two endzone drops by WR Davante Adams which could have really put the game out of reach early on), the Pack built what seemed like a comfortable lead. The defense, to that point, had held Chicago to just 10 points and generated several turnovers.

A 17-point lead should do the trick going into the 4th quarter if Packer squads on both sides of the ball and special teams continue to play for 15 more minutes the way they did for the prior 45. Especially against Da Bearz. But, that Packers' defense which was giving up tons of yardage (isn't that a mixed-measurement metaphor?) and loads of points during the team's four-game losing streak...well, it returned. And in the process, let the Chicago offense, behind QB Matt Barkley, wrack up 17 unanswered points to tie the game 27-27 with only about a minute left in the game. It was maddening.

With no timeouts remaining, what's a team to do? Particularly a team like the Packers? Put the ball in the capable hands and right arm of QB Aaron Rodgers, of course. Just watch.

Yes, Rodgers threw a 60-yard bomb to WR Jordy Nelson who got behind Da Bearz' secondary. In the blink of an eye and now at about the 20-yard line, the Packers had to rush to get all their players to the line of scrimmage. With three seconds remaining, Rodgers spiked the ball. Kicker Mason Crosby came on for the game-winning field goal, which he had to make twice because Chicago head coach John Fox called timeout just as Crosby was kicking the first one. Still, no problem. Final score: Packers 30, Da Bearz 27. It almost made you feel sorry for Bears' fans. Almost. And after 83 years, the total number of wins for both teams in this series is once again tied up, at 94 each. Yowza.

This was also the fourth win in a row for the Packers, to put them at 8-6. With Minnesota at home in Lambeau Field this Saturday and then the final game at Detroit on New Year's Day, the Packers control their own destiny in the NFC North. Win out and they win the NFC North at 10-6 and will host a playoff game. Who would have thought that even possible when the team was mired in the midst of its four-game losing streak? But Rodgers said he thought they could "run the table" and it looks as if he might be right. They are two-thirds of the way there.

We'll be back with our ViQueens preview and prediction closer to game time. So please check back. Or follow us on Twitter (@packfansunited) for any timely updates and witty commentary (on a good day for the latter).

2016 NFL Week 15: Packers vs. Bears Preview and Prediction

In what might be the coldest meeting ever between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears in their storied rivalry (think about that for a moment), the Packers look to keep their three-game winning streak going at Soldier Field today and, in the process, get to all-square in terms of wins with Da Bearz. Not wins this season, of course. Overall wins. That would be 94 each. Chicago has held the edge for the last 83 years. That ends today.

It won't be easy given the cold and the wind. The air temperature is supposed to be somewhere around zero...a degree or two either way, really, at this stage of things does it even matter? Nope. Throw in what are expected to be wind gusts of 20 to 30 mph coming off Lake Michigan and the wind chill will feel like -30.

Much of the Packers' success today against Chicago will depend
upon how long QB Aaron Rodgers can stay on the field.
Photo by Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
While these conditions are tough on one and all, they are especially so for a quarterback nursing both hamstring and calf injuries. That would be Packers QB Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers had essentially no practice this week as the choice was made to help his body recover as much as possible. But as a sign of possible uncertainty as to how much he might be able to go today -- and, even though listed as questionable on the injury report, make no mistake: Rodgers will play -- the Packers elevated QB Joe Callahan to the active roster. Brett Hundley is the backup to Rodgers. But if something were to happen to him? So, Callahan gets activated and LB Carl Bradford is released to make room.

There are many angles to today's game. But as game time fast approaches (an hour to game time!), we need to get onto the prediction. So here it is...

The Prediction
The Packers are favored by either 4-1/2 or 5-1/2 points depending upon what source you are looking at. Total-points of 38-1/2, the lowest of the weekend, means the pundits are factoring in the weather, as they should. The Packers are finding their game just in time. As long as they play the way they have the last few weeks -- last week in particular -- the Packers should win this game. But adjustments will need to be made for the cold and wind. That means more reliance, one would imagine, on the running game. Da Bearz have a legitimate running back in rookie Jordan Howard out of Indiana. The Packers? Well, we have a receiver-turned-running-back in Ty Montgomery, journeyman running back Christine Michael and FB Aaron Ripowski. Advantage, one would imagine, Chicago in this aspect of the game. But in a quarterback match up between Aaron Rodgers and Matt Barkley...c'mon...it's Rodgers...as long as he can stay on the field, of course. The Pack's defense is coming into form, finally, and that means good things today. A few turnovers should be there for the taking.

Alright, alright (and a third alright for any Matthew McConaughey fans out there), to the prediction...

We're calling it 24-13 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers pluck Seahawks, get ready for Bears

Sunday's 38-10 victory by the Green Bay Packers over the Seattle Seahawks was a thing of beauty. It was a complete, dominating game by the Pack in all three phases of the game: offense, defense and special teams. Oh, and did we mention it was against the Seahawks? Seattle. Seahawks. That makes it extra sweet, doesn't it? Aside from beating NFC North division rivals, and the Cowboys, nothing is really as satisfying these days as plucking the sea birds. No, change that, embarrassing them. This was a loss of epic and historic proportions for this Pete Carroll-led team. In our best Jerry Seinfeld voice: That's a shame.

QB Aaron Rodgers -- and the rest of the Packers -- had Seattle's number Sunday.
Photo by Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Many players rose to the occasion. QB Aaron Rodgers played through the hamstring injury nagging him, as well as a new calf injury he sustained on the third play of the game. His final quarterback rating was just over 150. The offensive line, the receivers, the McGyver'd rushing attack, punter Jacob Schum, coverage units...it was as good a performance as Packer fans have seen in a long time. Oh, and did we mention the interceptions of Seattle QB Russell Wilson? They were plentiful. Wilson hadn't ever thrown that many interceptions in a regular season game.

So while we are still riding high from this big win, we need to balance that with the reality that the Packers, at 7-6, are sitting in third place in the NFC North and have about five teams ahead of them right now in the NFC Wild Card race. They've won three in a row. But it was that four game losing streak that has put them behind the eight ball. The Packers need to win each of their three remaining games beginning with Da Bearz this Sunday in Chicago, then the ViQueens home at Lambeau Field, then finish the regular season at Detroit. If they do that, and the Lions lose at least one of their two upcoming games on the road against either the Giants or the Cowboys, the Packers and Detroit will be playing that January 1 game in Detroit for the NFC North Division Championship. That is likely the only way the Packers can be assured of making the playoffs. Lose one of these three games and, at 9-6, it's very likely the Pack will be packing up (no pun intended) for a long offseason.

Coming up: Da Bearz in very cold Chicago
The Packers have to face a wounded and woeful Bears team in Chicago on what weather forecasters are predicting will be one of the coldest games in recent memory. Temperature forecasts are for around zero degrees, plus winds gusting to 25 or 30 mph creating wind chills far below zero. The wind may very well cause havoc with the Pack's passing game, so the running attack -- spearheaded by receiver-turned-running-back, Ty Montgomery -- will have to certainly carrying its own weight this weekend. If the defense can generate turnovers even half as much as it did against Seattle the Packers should come away with the win. This is no "gimmee" game by any stretch, especially given the expected conditions. And while Bears QB Matt Barkley is serviceable given time in the pocket, he's also no Aaron Rodgers. Keys for the Pack will be getting pressure on Barkley, protecting Rodgers, creating turnovers while having none of their own. Simple, really, isn't it? Easier said than done. But do the Packers must.

We'll be back with our fuller preview and prediction closer to game time. Check back! Or follow us on Twitter @packfansunited for updates. We appreciate it.

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 NFL Week 9: Packers vs. Colts Preview and Prediction

The Green Bay Packers play their only home game during the month of November today at Lambeau Field vs. the Indianapolis Colts. After today, it's three straight games on the road, continuing the goofy schedule they were dealt this season by the league.

Coming off a 1-point loss in Atlanta to the Falcons last week, the Colts might be what the doctored ordered to get the Pack another home win before starting that tough road stretch.

While the Colts have one of the best quarterbacks in the league in Andrew Luck, they also have one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL. With the number of sacks they have given up, Luck should be getting hazardous duty pay...oh wait...he's overpaid already...never mind.

The key thing is that Luck should be under steady pressure today from the Packers defense. If the front seven can get regular pressure on him, his group of reliable receivers shouldn't be able to take advantage of the still-wounded Packers secondary. The defense will still have to account for veteran RB Frank Gore, though. While not capable of carrying the ball 25 or 30 times a game like he used to, he can still cause damage if left unchecked, whether running the ball out of the backfield or as a receiver.

Packers WR Randall Cobb is likely out
for today's game against the Colts.
Photo by Jeff Hanisch/USA TODAY Sports
On the other side of things, QB Aaron Rodgers returned to form last week despite the loss. With no running game to speak of, the Pack has gone to using receivers out of the backfield when and where possible -- Ty Montgomery should be in the backfield today -- although it's possible we may see more of RB Don Jackson today, too. But the Colts woeful secondary should present plenty of opportunities for Rodgers and his many receivers. Expect a lot of passes again today from Rogers.

One change to the starting offensive line today is that C Corey Linsley has come off the PUP list to replace the now-injured J.C. Tretter. It will be interesting to see how he does given all the time missed in getting into game shape.

The Prediction
The Packers are favored by 7 points at the time of this writing. The over-under points is projected at 53.5, which is the largest total for this weekend's games. In other words, the oddsmakers think there will be a lot of points scored between the two teams, and that the Packers will win. That's a likely scenario. But we also think the majority of those projected points, today, will be going the Packers way. Yay.

We're calling it 34-24 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers lose by 1 point in Atlanta

The Green Bay Packers took on the Falcons in Atlanta on Sunday and came up 1 point shy of a tie and 2 points short of a win. The latter -- as any fan will tell you -- is preferable. The game went down to the wire. On some levels, the fact that the injury-ridden Packers were as close to a win as they were was a testament to the players and coaches. But in the end, not even the stellar play of QB Aaron Rodgers and a gallant-but-not-good-enough effort by the defense, was able to pull this game out.

Yes, we had predicted a Packers defeat in our game preview by a score of 34-27; the final score was actually 33-32.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers congratulates
Falcons QB Matt Ryan on the win.
Photo by Rick Wood/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Without any running game to speak of -- even the Plan B running game of wide receivers Ty Montgomery and Randall Cobb running out of the backfield was moot as both players were inactive because of injury -- the game rode on Rodgers and his receivers outscoring the Dirty Birds. When you score 32 points, you should win, as some of the Packers defenders admitted after the game. Unfortunately, the defense came up short in that regard. Again, the Packers were down in some instances to playing their fifth and sixth cornerbacks against Falcons starters. To be fair, they did hold All-World receiver Julio Jones in check. But given opportunities for stops and turnovers, the Packers D couldn't make the plays.

What's next?
The Packers will take on the Indianapolis Colts this Sunday at Lambeau Field before then heading out for three straight road contests, including Sunday and Monday night games. Now sitting at 4-3, the Pack need this win at home before dealing with the daunting road schedule.

Luckily (no pun intended), the Colts may be just what the doctor ordered. Other than QB Andrew Luck, the Colts don't have too much going for them right now. The Packers defense should be able to pressure Luck; the Colts offensive line is, frankly, not very good. If defensive coordinator Dom Capers can't develop a scheme to get sacks against Luck it's giving the Colts an opportunity they don't need.

We'll have more on the game against the Colts coming up closer to game time.

For now... Go Pack Go!!!

2016 NFL Week 8: Packers vs. Falcons Preview and Prediction

For the first time in about a month, the Green Bay Packers hit the road. They take on the high-flying Atlanta Falcons inside the Georgia Dome in the late afternoon game today.

The Packers will be facing arguably and statistically the NFL's number one-rated offense, the number one-rated passer and the number one-rated receiver. They'll be doing so, however, without their own three top-rated cornerbacks. Not ideal in such a match up. Unless the Pack's front seven can get consistent pressure on Falcons' QB Matt Ryan, and the defensive backs can somehow disrupt WR Julio Jones, it could be a long day for the Pack's defense...and the Packers as a whole.

Assuming that that may be the case, the only hope is that the Pack's offense can outscore the Dirty Birds. Certainly that's possible. We've seen the offense click on two occasions this season: against Detroit and Chicago for a half each. Hmmm...odds don't seem great based upon recent history for a game-long shoot-out, do they? Then toss in the fact that, again, Eddie Lacy and James Starks are unavailable, as will be Randall Cobb today, the burden falls to others to pick up the slack. There is newcomer RB Knile Davis and recently promoted RB Don Jackson, as well as WR Geronimo Allison. So, it's entirely possible the Packers could have a long-awaited breakout game with some new players providing the spark. But...

Packers WR Randall Cobb will likely
not be available for today's game vs. Falcons.
Photo by Jim Matthews/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wis
Prediction
This will likely be one of our briefer preview and prediction posts. With the recent rash of injuries and roster changes on the Packers squad, and the general sputtering of the Packers offense, we think the only way to pull out a win over the Falcons today -- who are favored by 3 points at the time of this posting, by the way -- would be to outscore them. This is one of those rare occasions when the odds seem stacked against the Pack: injuries, opponent, road game, lack of consistent play.

We're call this one 34-27 Falcons.

Wish it wasn't so. And hope we're wrong.

Go Pack Go!!!

LATE UPDATE: TY MONTGOMERY OUT
Breaking late news: it's being reported by Jay Glazer that WR/RB Ty Montgomery is out for the Packers today because of illness. No Montgomery. No Cobb. A sorry injury/availability situation for the Packers becomes worse. Our prediction seems even more likely now. Dang.

Packers take down Bears 26-10

The Green Bay Packers have finally put together two good halves of football this season. OK, they weren't actually in the same game, but still. The first good half, as you may recall, was during the game and win against the Detroit Lions. Thankfully, the second good half came on Thursday evening against the Chicago Bears.

There was much wailing and gnashing of teeth following the disappointing loss to the Dallas Cowboys the prior Sunday evening. But despite a extremely sluggish first half against Chicago, the Packers offense finally started clicking -- to the tune of a record-setting night.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers lit up the Bears in a record-setting peformance.
Photo by Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wis

QB Aaron Rodgers was just shy of 60 pass attempts -- OK, 56 to be exact -- and set a franchise record with 39 completions. For the first time in a long time he had more than 300 yards passing. Davante Adams had a career night, with 13 catches for 132 yards and two touchdowns, just one catch short of tying the franchise record of the legendary Don Hutson. For the first time in Packers history, a receiver had 10 or more catches in the same game for 100 yards or more with 2 touchdowns.

The offense controlled the ball for nearly 40 minutes of the game, and racked up 32 first downs. It was quite a night for the offense.

And that was with missed opportunities. WR Randall Cobb had a chance for two additional touchdowns: one pass was stripped from him in the endzone early in the game as he was bringing the ball in for a completion; the second, later in the game, came when he couldn't get his second foot down inside the back line of the endzone while being forced out by the Bears' defender.

In addition, in a "Well, there's something you don't see everyday, Wilbur" moment, kicker Mason Crosby missed two fields and an extra point.

So...a lot of points were left on the field. This has been a disturbing trend for the Packers this season. In this game, against a woeful Bears offense, and with a dominant Packers defense, those points were not needed to secure the win. But the Pack certainly can't count on that every game.

As for the Packers defense, they pitched a touchdown shutout. Wait...what?...you say. Clearly a touchdown was scored by Da Bearz. Well, that came on a fumble by Rodgers recovered in the endzone by Chicago. Other than that, the Packers D made a nice return to form following its dismal performance a few days before against Dallas.

The Packers now have 10 days off (from the time of the game) to take a small break and get a bit healthier before they play at Atlanta on Oct. 30. That will hopefully also give the Packers time to integrate newly-arrived RB Knile Davis more fully into the offense.

But it's likely, based on his outstanding performance in the backfield against Chicago, that WR Ty Montgomery will also be seeing his share of playing time coming out of the backfield for a quite a while. That's because RB Eddie Lacy was placed on injured reserve with his ankle requiring surgery the day of the Bears game and James Starks is still a few weeks a way from returning from his knee surgery. RB Don Jackson, who was on the practice squad and promoted to the active roster the day of the game, sustained a left wrist injury on his second carry. Figures, doesn't it?

It's a strange season, indeed. But at least the Packers are 4-2, just behind the ViQueens in the NFC North standings.

NFL Week 7: Packers vs. Bears Preview and Prediction

Just a few days following a demoralizing 30-16 defeat at the hands of the Dallas Cowboys at Lambeau Field, the Green Bay Packers (3-2) will host the archrival Chicago Bears (1-5) this evening. The Pack will tonight be without seven players, including running backs Eddie Lacy and James Starks, as well as defensive backs Sam Shields, Damarious Randall and Quinten Rollins. Shields -- who is still in the league's concussion protocol -- was actually placed on injured reserve to open up a roster spot; he could return in Week 14. Wide receiver Jared Abbrederis, TE Jared Cook, and S Chris Banjo are also out. Wide receiver Davante Adams is listed as questionable.

As bad as it is for the Packers, Da Bearz' injury report is even longer. We wish we could feel bad about that, but given the current state of affairs in Green Bay, we don't. We'll take all the help we can get even if it's a banged-up opponent. Although, we did so hope Bears QB Jay Cutler could have played. That's always a factor in the Pack's favor.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers and the offense
must be in sync to beat Da Bearz tonight.
Photo by Rick Wood, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Given the condition of both teams, it's likely this game could be mediocre at best. Despite how out-of-sync the Packers seemed on Sunday, they need to somehow find the will -- and the ways and plays -- to beat what is arguably one of the worst teams in the league at this stage of the season.

It used to be the case that after a poor personal performance, QB Aaron Rodgers would light up the following week's opponent. But given the 17-game slump that Rodgers seems to be in in terms of personal performance, we're not sure what to count on any longer. Without a sure-fire running attack to take the pressure off him, play at the level we've seen recently would not be unexpected.

The Packers did finally decide to provide some help in this regard with the acquisition via trade Monday (a trade!!!) of Kansas City running back, Knile Davis. While Davis became expendable for the Chiefs, he might at least fill a temporary need for the Packers. Don't expect much tonight, other than perhaps a few basic plays. But the other option was to keep running wide receivers Ty Montgomery and Randall Cobb out of the backfield...which, let's just say it...is no solution and, well, a bit nuts, right? The Packers did have one other option, activating practice squad RB Don Jackson to the active roster. For this game, at least, the Pack will try to make it with Davis, et al. (By the way, Milwaukee Journal Packers beat writer extraordinaire, Bob McGinn, has a great article today about Davis; it's highly suggested reading.)

Prediction
Depending upon your source, the Packers are currently favored by 7-1/2 to 9-1/2 points. We'd like to think that's how things will roll tonight. But are we confident based upon what we've seen so far this season? Not really.

Still, we need to make a prediction. We're calling it 24-13 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!