Packers GM Ted Thompson says...

Ted Thompson, GM of the Green Bay Packers, just concluded a 20-minute press conference at which he answered questions from the media regarding the roster cuts, waivers, etc. Here in no particular order is a summary of some of the things Thompson had to say.

• Several questions were asked at the start about defensive back and returner, Will Blackon, why he was put on injured reserve, the pending injury settlement, etc. From what Thompson said, it sounded as if the Packers are still interested in what Blackmon could offer but when push came to shove regarding getting down to 53 players, they had no choice given Blackmon's health status but to do what they did. Apparently, there are scenarios under which Blackmon could still be available to the Packers this season because of the use of the injury settlement. Depending on the date that is finalized -- and Thompson made it clear he would not discuss such details -- Blackmon could be activated as early as 6 weeks after the date of injury settlement. Thompson basically said they will see where things are at at that time.
• Thompson stated that the Packers did not put in waiver claims on any players.
• When asked about carrying 3 fullback and 4 tight ends, Thompson said that he just felt those players had earned spots on the team. He also said several times that he feels very good about the 53 men they have on the current roster.
• When asked about FB Quinn Johnson, Thompson said he thought Johnson was "very valuable," and will be especially so in November and December when you need to get tough yards. He felt Johnson was a powerful lead blocker and his value would really be demonstrated in those situations where tough yards are needed.
• When asked about TE/LB Spencer Havner, Thompson said that cut was not an easy call because of all that Havner has done. He said the decision was more a factor of what the other players had done rather than what Havner had not done. (Havner, by the way, has been claimed on waivers by Detroit.)
• Thompson was asked about retaining rookie TE Andrew Quarless on the basis of "potential." Thompson grinned and replied, "Potential is overrated." He then added, "We want to win and win now." Amen, Ted, amen.
• In reply to a question about what he liked about undrafted rookie LB Frank Zombo, Thompson said, "I was very impressed with Frank." He then discussed in some detail how Zombo had sustained and then practiced and played through a pretty severe ankle injury. He noted that Zombo "made the team because he showed he could play at a high level."
• Thompson also mentioned that the announcement of the practice squad players would be made "first thing tomorrow." It has already been reported through his agent that the Packers signed QB Graham Harrell to the squad.
• Thompson stated that they view FB John Kuhn as a viable option at running back "in certain schemes."
• As for his linebacking corps, Thompson used such words as "athletic," "play hard," "quality" and "a pretty good group" when describing them.

Check back tomorrow for info on the practice squad signings and any other ramblings yours truly happens to kick out.

Packers - Seahawks preseason game preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go Pack Go!!!

Williams accepts Pack's offer

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

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

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

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

Tauscher IS back with the Pack!

The good news out of Packerland today is that veteran right tackle, Mark Tauscher, was signed to a contract, following about 11 months of rehab on his blown knee.

Here's the gist of the Packers' new release: "The Green Bay Packers have signed T Mark Tauscher and placed CB Will Blackmon on injured reserve. Ted Thompson, Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations, announced the transactions Monday. Tauscher played his first nine NFL seasons (2000-08) with the Packers. He saw action in 122 games, including 120 starts. Blackmon, a fourth-year pro, had seen action in three games in 2009."

Coach Mike McCarthy said in his press conference today that it will probably take Tauscher at least a week to get back into enough football shape to be able to play. So, apparently, don't look to see him much if at all against Detroit on Sunday. More likely to get playing time the following week at Cleveland so he's really ready to go in that big Nov. 1 rematch at Lambeau against the ViQueens and Ol' #4.

It's also possible that both LT Chad Clifton and S Atari Bigby will get playing time this week, although Bigby was still held out of practice today, according to report.

Tauscher back with the Pack?

RT Mark Tauscher, coming off nearly a year of rehab from knee injury and resultant free agent status, was back in Green Bay today working out for the team. Reports are that he pass his physical. Tauscher had reportedly also worked out in the last week or so with Kansas City. Early word is that a deal to rejoin the Pack is close. But, I mean, it's not like the Pack needs any offensive line help or anything. A-hem...

Check out this story for more.

Blackmon out for the year
Bad luck continues for fourth-year player Will Blackmon. Returning a kick in last night's game against the ViQueens, Blackmon tore an ACL and is now done for the season. Blackmon, despite his potential, has been a victim of various injuries over the years which have kept him out for extended periods of time. This is another.

Jordy Nelson takes over in the returner's role. Blackmon was also a reserve cornerback and thus his loss also weakens an already injury-plagued defensive backfield.

Pack - Vikes 1st half story: turnovers

The Packers have played well in the first half. Except for two turnovers down near the ViQueens red zone. OK, that's not so good. The first was a fumble by QB Aaron Rodgers, and the second was an interception. Both times, the Pack was driving. Each time, they easily would have gotten at least 3 points. And, both times, the ViQueens turned the turnovers into 7 points. The Pack did score on a great throw and run after catch by Jermichael Finley for a 62-yard TD play.

The score after the 1st quarter was 7-7. The 'Queens went up 14-7 about halfway through the second quarter.

Then the Pack finally got a turnover of its own, and took it back for a TD. Tacklers were holding up Adrian Peterson and LB Clay Matthews stripped him of the ball and took it back 42 yards for the score. Bang: 14-14.

A late drive by the 'Queens put them up by 7 at the half. Favre was picked off in the end zone by Charles Woodson. But there was a defensive holding penalty on the play and the refs also called -- as even the announcers acknowledged -- a ticky-tack pass interference penalty on Woodson. That gave the 'Queens first down at the 1. Adrian Peterson carried it on the next play for the go-ahead score.

In the half, 21 of the 35 total points came off turnovers.

Ol' #4 in the funky purple is making good throws. Hasn't been sacked yet, unfortunately. He's getting the ball out quickly and looking like, well, you know. New #12 in the Green 'n ' Gold is making good throws as well, with the exception of the pick. He is having to make more throws on the move, though, as protection -- while not bad -- is still not great.

Just as expected, this game will be a tight one. And probably down to the wire.

Unfortunately, returner Will Blackmon went down on a kick return with a knee injury and was taken to the locker room on a cart for X-rays. Doesn't look good. And considering Blackmon's history of not being able to stay healthy for long, you just hate to see this happen again.

Turnovers were a big factor in the first half. Penalties on the Packers also have played a nagging role in the game. The Pack has hurt themselves in this game. Would rather have the Pack go in up, of course, but to go into half down by 7...still very winnable especially with the Pack's big play ability. By the way, no team in the last two years has had more "big plays" -- plays of 40 yards or more -- than the Pack. If the Pack can make a few corrections at half, and continue to play with the intensity they have...the Pack can still win this game.

Go Pack Go!!!

Pack vs Cards wrap up ... and more!

As has been the case all through the preseason, the Packers' first string offensive and defensive units were once again outstanding in the team's victory over the Cardinals Friday night. If you didn't see the game or hear it on the radio you've no doubt read the details by now. So no need to rehash what is now old news. The Pack kicked butt. The final score was in no way reflective of what the first stringers did. All we can hope as fans is that the team isn't peaking in preseason. And that the players that sustained injuries are ready to go for the season opener against Da Bearz.

At the top of that list, of course, is receiver Greg Jennings who was the subject of a nasty sandwich tackle. He was back in uniform, but mostly on the sidelines at Sunday's practice, according to reports. His prognosis is good, although coach McCarthy has already said Jennings will not play in Thursday night's game versus the Titans. Good decision. Will Blackmon and Brandon Jackson are also likely to sit out this upcoming game. Mike Montgomery might be able to play with his broken hand, but no decision for sure yet.

The Packers also released 3 players over the weekend, with the most notable name being punter Durant Brooks. Brooks, as you may recall, was supposed to be in a heated battle for the punting job with Jeremy Kapinos. But Brooks had essentially been out of the running with a hip injury since the second preseason game.

Backup QB Matt Flynn, who was held out of Friday's game because of his shoulder sprain, threw a little bit Sunday and hopes to be able to play Thursday.

Barring any additional injuries in the final exhibition game -- and don't expect most starters to play very long or at all -- the Packers can head into that season home opener against Da Bearz feeling very good about what they have achieved so far. The thing to remember about that, though, is that none of that counts. Game 1 versus Chicago is where the road to the playoffs begins!

Halftime: Packers 7 - Texans 10

The Pack avoided going down 14-0 near the start of the 2nd quarter when a wide open TE Owen Daniels was stripped of the ball by Desmond Bishop as he was about to go into the endzone. The ball was recovered by Tramon Williams at the 3. The Pack did get a drive going but it was ended by a sack on third down. Also on that series, RT Mark Tauscher was injured and needed help to get to the sidelines. He was taken to the locker room for X-rays. Tony Moll replaced him in the line.

Following a punt to the Texans 8 yard line, and an eventual sack on Schaub, the Texans appeared to get something going when they converted on a 3rd-and-13 on a screen pass to Slaton. Soon afterward, however, Williams got an interception and set the Packers up for their first touchdown, which came on a 20-yard pass from Rodgers to Donald Lee. Packers 7 - Texans 7.

On the following series, though, Williams got beat on another long pass, 46 yards, again to Matt Walter, who was the same receiver that earlier caught the Texans' 58-yard TD pass.

After the 2-minute warning, the Packers held the Texans at the 11 on 3rd and 7, setting up their field goal to put Houston up 10-7.

Will Blackmon then had his 99-yard kickoff return called back on a holding call on Jason Hunter. This is the kind of day it is. And this is why it has "Uh-oh" written all over it.

The Packers had a final drive going, down to the Texans' 48, when Rodgers rolled out to the left on third down and was intercepted with 33 seconds left. (Sigh.)

The Texans then managed to move the ball the last half minute and got a 21-yard pick up on a third down slant across the middle when the receiver beat Desmond Bishop. It set up a 41-yard filed goal attempt with 1 second left on the clock. A glimmer of hope, though, as the kicker pushed it wide right.

The Packers were 0 for 5 on 3rd down conversions in the half, by the way.

It was uninspired play on both sides of the football by the Packers. For a team that must have this game, they sure aren't playing like it.

End of 1st quarter: Packers 7 - Saints 14

No Reggie Bush for the Saints tonight. And for the Pack, RT Mark Tauscher goes to the locker room early with a reported hamstring injury.

The Packers struck first, with a TD drive set up by a good punt return by Will Blackmon and finished off with a 1-yard TD plunge by FB John Kuhn. Then the Saints came back on a 70 yard pass in the flat and a blown coverage by Atari Bigby, who never laid a hand on the receiver. Then the Pack, courtesy of yet another lousy punt by Derrick Bush, set up the Saints at the Packers own 41. A few plays later, the score is 14-7 Saints.

The Packers are getting no pressure whatsoever on Saints QB Drew Brees, which is going to make for a long night unless they figure out a way to do so. Conversely, Aaron Rodgers has been off on a few throws and seems not yet to be in sync. He missed a wide open Greg Jennings on what would have been a sure TD had he not underthrown the ball; Rodgers' reaction, caught by the Monday Night Football cameras, showed he was well aware of that.

Packers - Bears Preview Part 2

Contrary to my post of Wednesday, folks, I'm back. At least long enough to update my preview of the 175th meeting -- the longest rivalry in pro football -- between our beloved Packers and, a-hem, Da Bearz. I still won't be able to do my usual in-game postings but, hey, ya get what you pay for, right?

Mid-week, as noted in my Wednesday post, the Pack was favored by 4 points. As also noted, it was expected that that spread would close up by game time. It has, but not by much: the Pack is now favored by 3-1/2.

The only Packer definitely out, as we know, is Nick Barnett...and he's done for the season. Will Blackmon, who had a punt return for a TD last week, had a quadriceps injury that limited his practice until Friday. He's listed as probable, which means he'll play. He's given a spark to the return team, despite his ill-advised (a nice way of saying it) punt return out of his own endzone also last week. Judging from the brief conversation on the sideline between he and Coach McCarthy, caught by TV cameras, there probably is not much chance that will happen again. Hopefully, he can contribute a good return or two today.

DT Justin Harrell is questionable. Shocking, isn't it? Rookie DE Jeremy Thompson is doubtful. So the defensive line that has been unable for most of the season to get pressures on opposing QBs and stop running attacks may still find itself a bit short-handed.

For Da Bearz, QB Kyle Orton is listed as probable. Not sure whether he or Rex Grossman will get the start but most of the talk during the course of the week seemed to be that Grossman would once again start. If he struggles, Orton could see action.

What do the Packers have to do? For one thing, slow down Da Bearz' rookie RB, Matt Forte, who is averaging 21 attempts and 79.2 yards rushing per game. He is a strong and fast back...and given the Pack's struggles against the run this season, they really need to shut him down to put the pressure on Grossman. Chicago has a decent wide receiver in Rashied David and a good young tight end in Greg Olsen. But the Packers defensive backs are as good as they come and should be able to handle anything in the way of the air game. One other perpetual concern, of course, is return man Devin Hester.

But, bottom line, is the Packers desperately need a victory in order to not fall farther behind in the NFC North. They also need redemption from last week's heartbreaker in the Humpdome. The offensive line needs a real gut check...the kind that isn't measuring their girth but rather their heart. That goes for the D-line, too.

A complete game is called for. The Pack has been underachieving all season long. There's no better place to get things turned around than at home against Da Bearz.

Packers 27 - Da Bearz 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

End of 3rd quarter: Packers 24 - ViQueens 21

A tale of two touchdowns for the Packers was the story of the 3rd quarter. And neither of them were by the offense. The first came on a roughly 60-yard interception return by Nick Collins, and the second was a 67-yard punt return by Will Blackmon, who made up for his earlier bonehead play. Oh, yeah, the ViQueens got a TD, as well, earlier in the quarter after LB Nick Barnett went out with a sprained knee. His replacement, Desmond Bishop, was immediately put to the test trying to cover a swing pass to RB Chester Taylor; he got juked and Taylor took it 40-some yards to the end zone. Ryan Longwell also missed a field goal for the 'Queens.

Late in the quarter, after the Packers went up 24-21 on the Blackmon punt return, the Minnesota running game started to gain additional traction. But the Packers "D" hasn't broken yet.

The Packer defense needs a rest, though. Despite being ahead at the end of the 3rd quarter, the Packers have only had the ball for about 16 minutes of the entire game, while Minnesota has had it for about 29 minutes.

Barring turnovers or stupid penalties by the Packers, and assuming the Packers offense can give the defense a bit of a breather somewhere in the final quarter, the Pack is in a position to win...but they have to finish...a trait which has been inconsistent throughout this season. It's time to bring it on home, guys!

Go Pack Go!!!

Halftime: Packers 10 - ViQueens 14

The Minnesota drive which was allowed to continue near the end of the 1st quarter courtesy of a bogus penalty on Al Harris eventually resulted in a 50+ yard field goal by former Packer kicker, Ryan Longwell. That made the score 10-7.

The Packers had their league-leading ability to attract penalty flags at inopportune times continue in this quarter. Thanks to a holding penalty on fullback Korey Hall, the Packers were backed up inside their 10-yard line. Aaron Rodgers dropped back to pass and had the ball knocked out of his hands into the end zone. Rather than pick it up and attempt to run, which he may or may not have been able to do successfully, he threw it underhand as he was falling to the ground. While it was in the vicinity of a receiver, the refs called it an illegal throw. And since it was made from the end zone, it was a safety for Minnesota. ViQueens 12 - Packers 7.

The Packers gave up a second safety with about 49 seconds left in the half. After stopping Minnesota and securing a punt inside their own 10-yard line, Rodgers threw an incomplete pass on 1st down and then took a sack inside the end zone instead of throwing the ball away. To be fair, Rodgers was under pressure by DE Jared Allen almost immediately...but you have to get rid of that ball!

On Minnesota's possession following the obligatory post-safety punt, though, Tramon Williams intercepted a Gus Frerotte pass and gave the Packers a chance to get a final score before half. Yet another penalty, an illegal man downfield, took both time off the clock and yardage off the field. But the Packers were able to get the ball down to the 'Queens 30-yard line with 3 seconds left on the clock. Mason Crosby was able to convert a 47-yard field goal to make the score 14-10 at half in favor of Minnesota.

Penalties negated first downs and halted drives for the Packers. Towards the end of the half, Minnesota RB Adrian Peterson was able to break tackles and rip off some yardage, although he was unable to break one all the way.

The Packers had horrible field position most of the half, while the 'Queens enjoyed very good field position. Considering that, the penalties, and lack of ability to sustain drives largely as a result of both factors, the Packers are lucky to only be down by 4...and especially when you gave them those 4 points on safeties. If the Packers can get out of their own way, get better field position and stop the stupid penalties, they should still be able to win this game. But they need a completely different half of play for the next 30 minutes than the previous 30.

One side story about the bad field position. Punt returner Will Blackmon caught a punt in the end zone and took it out; he had no clue where he was on the field. Coach McCarthy had a few choice words for him when he came to the sidelines.

Chances are, Coach McCarthy will have some more choice words for the entire team during halftime.

Harris might not be done yet

While saying that Packers cornerback Al Harris has a "serious" spleen injury, Packers head coach Mike McCarthy also said, "I’m hopeful he’ll be back. The time frame just hasn’t been established." McCarthy also said, "I think that’s obvious to everybody (that it's a serious injury). And really, as we move forward, it’s a different type of injury. And we will take a cautious approach, and everything we’ll do will be in his best interests.”

Harris is definitely out this week. But how long before he returns is the question. According to McCarthy, Harris got at least three medical opinions this week and there’s a “good chance” he can avoid surgery. If so, he might be able to return before the end of the season; if not, not only is Harris' season done but his career might also be in jeopardy given his age.

In Harris' absence, Tramon Williams will get the start against the Buccaneers. You can be sure Tampa Bay will test him often on Sunday. And Williams knows it. While he's performed well as the nickel back, he has been burned a few times already this season, by Calvin Johnson in Detroit and Miles Austin in the Dallas game. But remember that Williams has only played in 11 games going back to last season. So one expects to see more of the good plays and less of the bad as he gets more playing time. Will Blackmon will take Williams' spot in the nickel scheme. It's possible that intriguing rookie Patrick Lee might also get some playing time in dime packages.

No doubt about it, this injury to Harris -- apart from the personal health and career aspects for Harris himself, which are of the most concern, of course -- means the defense has to perform at an even higher level than before. But after the game against the Cowboys, that should have been one of the results anyway.

You can read more on this situation here and here and here.

Packers beat Lions 48-25

The final score was really not reflective of how close the game actually was. For a brief moment.

The Lions made a game of it in the fourth quarter, to actually take a 25-24 lead with 7:41 left in the game.

How did it get that way? The Packers play calling seemed to get conservative. Field position was also not good most of the time. A fine return by Will Blackmon to the Packers 40-yard line was negated by a penalty on Jarrett Bush. On the ensuing series, the Pack went three and out, only to have the snap go through the punter's hands and out of the endzone for a safety. This made the score 24-18 Packers, but momentum was clearly turning the Lions way.

After getting good field position on the ensuing free kick, Lions' QB Jon Kitna connected with WR Calvin Johnson on a 50-yard catch and run for a TD to put the Lions up 25-24 with 7:41 remaining. Johnson beat cornerback Tramon Williams badly as a result of Williams' poor arm tackling approach and Aaron Rouse's whiff tackle attempt.

On the next series, however, on 2nd and 13 (thanks to the sixth offensive penalty of the day by the Pack), Packers' QB Aaron Rodgers hit WR Greg Jennings on a quick slant over the middle , who turned it into a 60-yard gain to the Lions' 24. On third down, RB Brandon Jackson dropped a wide open pass at about the 5-yard line. The Pack had to settle for another Mason Crosby field goal to regain the lead, 27-25.

On the first play of the first series after the kickoff, Charles Woodson picked off a Kitna pass at the Lions' 40-yard line. On 3rd and one from the 19, Brandon Jackson made up for earlier drop by rushing for a touchdown to increase the lead to 34-25 with 3:31 remaining in the game.

On the Lions' next series, Woodson again intercepted Kitna's pass and returned it about 42 yards for a touchdown. Packers 41 - Lions 25 with 3:09 left.

Having to continue to go to the air, Kitna was again picked off, this time by Nick Collins who returned it 40 yards for a touchdown. Packers 48 - Lions 25.

And that's where the game wound up. How fast things can change. The Packers had it in hand and got a bit complacent and conservative after the half. The Lions, to their credit, kept trying to exploit the passing lanes over the middle and ultimately found success. But the Packers' defense took care of business when it needed to as well, accounting for 14 of the Packers' final points.

Aaron Rodgers finished the day 24 of 38 for 328 yards and 3 touchdowns. Wide receiver Greg Jennings finished with his best receiving day yet, catching 6 passes for 167 yards.

Packers atop the division...as predicted here
So the Packers are 2-0. What about the other teams? Well, we know that the Lions are now 0-2. What about Da Bearz? Lost in a comeback victory to Carolina, 20-17. Ohhhhhh. They're now 1-1. And the ViQueens? Lost to the Colts 18-15. Ohhhhhh. Actuallly, make that 0-2.

So, as predicted here in our pre-game preview, the Packers now sit alone atop the NFC North at 2-0, followed by Da Bearz at 1-1 with the 'Queens and Lions bringing up the bottom at 0-2.

Da Bearz play Tampa Bay in Chicago next week, while the Panthers visit Minnesota. The Lions go to San Francisco. The Packers are at home next Sunday night against the Cowboys in what could be a precursor to a possible NFC Championship Game later in the season.

But for now...let's just enjoy this one. The team looked really good at the beginning and the end. Some of the middle looked a bit iffy, but in the end talent prevailed.

Ah, it's good to be a Packers fan!!!

Packers OTAs underway - Harrell hurt again

Packers organized team activities (OTAs) -- the mini-camps that aren't -- are underway this week. These are the practices that aren't really mandatory for the players, but given the level of competition for roster spots most players see them as essential.

Take, for example, the receivers. There are 12 of 'em in Green Bay this week, all trying to make sure they are one of the 6 or 7 receivers who make the final cut. Who's likely safe? Donald Driver, of course, Greg Jennings and James Jones, plus -- barring some major problem or injury -- the Packers first pick from this year's draft, Jordy Nelson. Dependable Ruvell Martin should also garner a spot, although it's not guaranteed and he knows it. Then you've got the other receiver from this year's draft, Brett Swain. Johnny Quinn, who signed with the Pack after a workout in January, is also trying to make the team, perhaps on special teams. Shaun Bodiford, Chris Francies, and undrafted free agents Jake Allen, Rod Harper and Taj Smith round out the competition.

The Pack had one of the best young receiving corps in the league last year and it appears as if it will only be better this year given the competition for jobs. It will be interesting to see how it all shakes out. Aaron Rodgers should have lots of good targets to choose from. (And, while we're speaking of Rodgers, this is now the first set of practices since he's been in Green Bay where he's now The Man. Heck, it's the first set of practices since about 1992 or so where anyone other than Brett Favre has been The Man. Still a bit surreal, isn't it?)

Harrell hurt...again
Remember how last year the Pack's surprise first round draft pick, Justin Harrell, couldn't participate in pre-season practices because of the torn bicep injury from his senior year at Tennessee? Well, according to reports and the Packers' own website, Harrell will also miss this year's OTAs with a back injury. During the course of last season, Harrell didn't get much playing time -- wasn't even active for many games -- because of knee and ankle injuries. So this must be a new injury. Fans may recall that one of the raps on Harrell coming out of college was that he was injury prone. Well...guess we'll see how this one turns out. The Packers website says that Harrell, along with cornerback Will Blackmon (foot) and defensive tackle Johnny Jolly (shoulder) are out for the entire four-week OTA session but "all three should be cleared for the start of training camp."

Packers-Rams Preview

First things first. We must give a hearty and well-deserved congratulations to the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater football team on their winning the NCAA Division III National Championship in the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl. The Warhawks beat the unbeaten and seemingly unstoppable Mount Union Purple Raiders 31-21 yesterday. The Warhawks were in command virtually the entire game, despite Mount Union closing the lead to within 3 points on two occasions. Gagliardi Award winner Justin Beaver led UW-W with 31 rushes for 249 yards and a touchdown. (The Gagliardi Award, by the way, is the Division III equivalent of the Heisman Trophy.) Beaver was named the game's Most Valuable Player. He's played for over a month with a fractured rib. A great win for the Warhawks, who had finished runner-up to Mount Union the last two years. As they say, third time is the charm. If you want to read more about the game, check out this article. If you want to know more about UW-Whitewater (from which some of this writer's acquaintances somehow managed to graduate despite spending more time at the local watering holes than is humanly possible), click here.

Now...about that Packers game...

The Packers are 9 point favorites going into the game against the 3-10 Rams in St. Louis. This is a game the Packers should win by beating the spread. Brett needs 184 yards to pass Dan Marino as the all-time leader in passing yards. That should be no problem, although the Rams will be blitzing often, so protection for Brett will be key. If the line can't pick up the blitzes it might be a difficult day. But if they do their job, there should be plenty of opportunities to hit lots of receivers. And let's not forget the running game. Since week 8 of the season, no running back has gained more yardage than our own Ryan Grant. That's right, Ryan Grant. He's rushed for 717 yards since week 8. That's more than any other back in the league. More than Ladanian Tomlinson, Justin Fargas, Clinton Portis, Adrian Peterson, and whoever else is out there. Grant should have another 100-yard game today.

What do the Packers have to worry about? Well, Rams QB Marc Bulger will start today after coming off a concussion. But he will be working behind an offensive line missing 4 of 5 starters. There's still Tory Holt to deal with. But he has lost a step. Al Harris should be able to hold him in check. And the Packers defense should be able to get some sacks again, after going without any the last two games. The Rams do have a fine running back in Steven Jackson, and he could generate some yards if the Packers forget about him...which they won't. All in all, the Rams don't have enough to stay with the Pack. And that's not even counting any newly found special teams pizzazz the Packers might have today courtesy of Will Blackmon.

The Packers win 31-17 today. A first round bye in the playoffs? Why not. All we need besides a Packers win today is a Seattle loss or tie.

End of 3rd quarter: Packers 31 - Raiders 7

A wild third quarter, ending with an interception return for a TD that wasn't, and a 26 yard run by Grant.

But let's start at the beginning. The first drive of the quarter culminated with a 44-yard field goal by Crosby after another drive stalled out on a third-and-one play. This made it 17-7 Packers. The next Packers series was a quick one. An 80-yard TD pass by Brett to Jennings. Packers 24 - Raiders 7. The Raiders eventually got a drive going, aided by a 15-yard blow to the head penalty on Justin Harrell (hey, there he is!). The Raiders missed the 44-yard field goal attempt to keep the score 24-7.

The Packers had to punt on their next series. The returner had the ball stripped by Jason Hunter and Will Blackmon recovered the ball in the endzone for a TD. The referees initially called the player down by contact. The Packers challenged the ruling and -- upon further review! -- the runner was not down when the ball was being fumbled. TD Packers! Score: Pack 31 - Raider 7. By the way, Blackmon became only the fourth player in NFL history to return a punt for a touchdown and return a fumble for a touchdown in the same game. Not a bad way to get your name in the record book.

The next to last play of the quarter was an interception by Atari Bigby after a tip by Nick Collins. Bigby returned it for a TD but a penalty was called on Cullen Jenkins for blindsiding the Raiders QB away from the ball. The Pack kept the ball but lost a TD. The final play of the quarter saw that 26-yard run by Grant mentioned earlier.

Grant has 29 carries for 156 yards.

Halftime: Packers 14 - Raiders 7

The Packers offense continued to move the ball in the second quarter, this time with points to show. Ryan Grant already has 18 carries for 90 yards, including a 6-yard TD run to make the score 7-0. Not long afterward, following a Raiders series riddled with big first-down negating penalties, the recently returned Will Blackmon got his first NFL touchdown on a 57-yard punt return to make the score 14-0. Coaches and fans alike have been awaiting Blackmon's return to returning from his series of injuries. This return was an indication why. Al Harris got an interception later on.

The Packers final drive of the half was much like its first two: a drive with no points. Brett missed Greg Jennings on a third-and-eight play which would have broken for a TD if completed. As it was, the Pack had to settle for a 43-yard field goal attempt by Mason Crosby, who missed it badly to the left. This left the Raiders with decent starting field position with about 90 seconds remaining. The prevent defense, of course, didn't prevent the Raiders from moving the ball and getting a 25-yard TD pass to Jerry Porter over Al Harris. Linebacker Nick Barnett also went down with an injury; almost looked as if he might have been poked in the eye or got his bell rung a bit from they way he looked on the sideline.

The Packers are not playing sharply. Offensive drives are not being finished with points. And the defense, for as good as it played most of the half, seemed to go to sleep during the Raiders 2-minute drive.

As noted earlier, this is a game which has an "Oh-oh" feeling to it in the first half. The Packers are leaving points on the field and against lesser opponents -- example: Da Bearz -- it's this kind of performance which leaves you only one bad play or turnover away from losing a game that should not be close.

The Packers need to get their act together in the second half.

Packers banged up

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

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

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

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

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

Blackmon likely done for the year - again

Will Blackmon, the second-year player the Pack was counting on to not only return punts and/or kicks but also compete for starting time at defensive back, broke his right foot in practice Wednesday. This is the same foot he broke in training camp last year. Of course, this year he was already set back with a broken right thumb. Before the news broke about this today, some local sportscasters were even speculating that Blackmon would soon be pressing for playing time. So much for that idea. At this point, no idea as to when or if Blackmon might return this year.

Some players, despite the promise they present -- and Blackmon did indeed present much promise -- are just injury prone. No doubt the Pack will give him another shot next year. But another injury would certainly cut short his stay in Green Bay, and perhaps the NFL.

You can read more about this sad story here.