Packers - Cowboys: the day before the showdown

So it's the day before the big game in Big D. You know, the biggest game in the NFC this season that only those people who have the NFL Network or live in the local viewing markets will be able to see. Have you got your seat reserved at your local sports bar, fans? For most of the nation, that's the only way you'll see the game. Sad state of cable affairs, indeed.

Aside from that issue, what else do we need to know? Well, that as of the moment, the Packers are 6-1/2 point underdogs to the 'Boys. Two 10-1 teams and there is this kind of spread? Wow. As Donald Driver and some of the other Packers players noted when told about this, the team hasn't been given any respect all year and this is just another sign of that. You know, that little "no respect" chip on the shoulder seems to have served the team well throughout the season so far. I think it will provide even a bit more incentive tomorrow night.

Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers and a seasoned all-around sports play-by-play announcer, was asked during a radio interview this morning what he thought about some of the aspects of the upcoming game. He said he felt that when the Pack goes to its 5 wideout scheme that Dallas will blitz and blitz hard. Larrivee noted that Dallas apparently only has one really good cover defensive back, so they don't want to expose their secondary problems on long downfield passes. That means, he said, that the Packers will have to run a lot of slants and short, quick passes in order to short-circuit the blitzes that will be coming. Seems to make sense. It might also be a good thing if the Packers can get a few rushing yards out of Ryan Grant early on, just to keep the defense guessing and perhaps give Brett time to find a receiver downfield on occasion. There will be opportunities to make plays, Larrivee said. Indeed. Other pundits have pointed out that this will be a high scoring game. Probably so.

As to what the Packers will look like on the field, the offensive unit should have all pieces in place. On the defense, we already know that two pieces of the defensive front rotation will not be available: Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole. KGB is also hurting. Ryan Pickett got nicked up. That puts more pressure on the players who are available. It also gives opportunities for some of the other young players to step up in a huge game. Primary among them will be the Packers first round draft pick, Justin Harrell, who to this point of the season has been nearly invisible, actually inactive for quite a few games. This will be an opportunity to show the team and the fans that his selection was not the mistake that many thought it was. How the coaches will play him in the rotation will be an interesting subplot to the game. The other critical question mark on the defensive side of things is the health of Charles Woodson's toe, which he injured on a punt return last week. He will be a gameday decision, although Larrivee said that Woodson would definitely start. The question, as Larrivee acknowledged, will be how long he is able to go. If he can play even the majority of plays, he and Al Harris can take on Dallas' receivers in ways those players haven't seen this season. If Woodson can't go, Larrivee pointed out that Jarrett Bush -- who Larrivee thinks is a fine young player making progress each week -- will be tested. Tony Romo will go right at him the way that John Kitna did last week after he replaced Woodson. Bush will have to step up his game in a hurry. If you want to read the latest on the injury front, check out this article.

That's enough for now. More later.

Breaking News: New Packers President to be Named

The Green Bay Press Gazette is reporting that the Packers will name current Northwestern University Athletic Director Mark Murphy as the new President and CEO of the Green Bay Packers. Murphy has no prior NFL administrative experience, which was something the current and outgoing President Bob Harlan indicated he felt was essential. So much for that idea. Murphy did play in the NFL for eight years as a safety for the Redskins and has some experience with the NFL Players Association. You can read more on this important story here.

Packer - Cowboys week: the local angle

And what did you do on your weekend vacation, Bobby? You know, the one without Packers football? Yes, we had our treat early, true, with that Thanksgiving day victory over the Lions. But still...didn't it seem...empty on Sunday? Of course, the talking heads at ESPN and elsewhere did give some mentions of the Pack over the Lions and the upcoming game against the 'boys in Big D. But still...well, you're a Packer fan...I don't have to explain, do I?

One of the main story lines for this week, at least in Wisconsin, is that of the homegrown QB for Dallas, Tony Romo, from little Burlington in the southeastern part of the state. Nothing to really distinguish Burlington except for its annual Chocolate Fest and perhaps the distinction of being the only "Chocolate City USA" in the country...which comes by way of having a Nestle's plant in the city. Then there's the world famous Burlington Liars Club which, as it so happens, is still taking entries through Dec. 17 in search of the 2007 World Champion Liar (see this article for more on that). Oh, and it also has Fred's, Home of the World's Best Burger. OK, there are a few things which make Burlington a nice little city. But Burlington has probably never gotten as much attention as it has since Tony Romo began his rise to NFL star status. He grew up watching and rooting for Brett Favre. Now, he gets to play him for the first time. Some pundits are even starting to say Romo is the next Favre because of the way he plays. Let's wait about 15 years before we see how that works out, shall we?

But by all accounts, Romo was a good kid from a nice family, who -- according to the Burlington High School Athletic Director in a radio interview -- worked for everything he got. So, as you might imagine, hearts and minds are a bit divided this week in Burlington. The consensus might be that locals hope Tony has a good game individually but that the Packers win the game. I think that would be a good compromise, too.

If you'd like to read a story about Burlington's split personality this week, check out this story.

Just in time for the holidays

This is a blatantly commercial plug, fellow Packer fans. Just in time for that most blatantly commercial time of year. You know, the season for buying and exchanging gifts and racking up even more credit card debt than ever before. It's the American way, after all.

It's in that spirit that I have set up a PackerFansUnited.com shop. It's a place where you can get official (what other kind would there be?) PackerFansUnited merchandise. You'll find apparel for guys, gals and kids, as well as some cool gift items. Things you can get for yourself, for fellow Packer fans, or even to give to those less fortunate fans of those...other teams...just to annoy them. You know who I mean.

Other items may be added later. But for now, there will be enough to get you started on your holiday shopping. You can either click on the link in the right hand column that says "Visit my store..", or you can click here.

Thanks for reading. And thanks for shopping!

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!!!

Pack beats Lions 37 - 26

As expected, the Packers beat the Lions today. The Pack took the lead up by 22 points at one point in the fourth quarter before the Lions made it close again by scoring 14 points in about 3-1/2 minutes. The Pack closed their scoring out by driving down for a 26-yard field goal to make it an 11 point victory. The Lions got one more chance with the ball after that with about 1-1/2 minutes to go.

Items of note: Brett set a new Packers record for pass completions in a row with 20 -- he surpassed the previous record of 18 held jointly by Lynn Dickey and Don Majkowski; Brett has an NFL record 63 three TD pass games; he had his 7th 300+ yard passing game of the season; Ryan Grant surpassed 100 yards rushing on the day with some nice cut back runs, including a couple key runs in the last scoring drive.

All in all, quite a game. A little more nerve-racking at the end then it needed to be, but as Brett said in the post-game on air interview, "We made plays when we needed to." He pointed out that "We have things to clean up" and "At 10-1, we're not a bad team." Indeed, Brett, indeed.

It will be interesting to see as the Pack prepares for next week's showdown in Dallas how some of the injuries they incurred today will come into play. Donald Driver came up gimpy after getting leg whipped and his ankle rolled up on during a 4th quarter running play. Neither Charles Woodson nor KGB returned to the game after halftime. So hopefully all will be healed and ready to roll.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner, folks. 10-1. Gobble gobble...and pass the cranberries, please.

Halftime: Packers 17 - Lions 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

Favre set to carve

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Packers Fan Hall of Fame voting underway

If you weren't aware of it, the Packers not only have their own Hall of Fame for their outstanding players but also have a Fan Hall of Fame for those fans who are exceptional in their love and support for the Pack. (I know, I know, who isn't, right?) They've had this up and rolling since 1998. Nominations are submitted and then a group of finalists is selected that the public can vote upon. Only one person is selected for the honor each year.

All candidates certainly are worthy of consideration. However, I'd like to put in a special plug for one of the finalists, Bill Riley. You can read about him here. Bill was born in Milwaukee in 1949 but has lived in California since the age of 3.

Now, all true Packer fans can stake claim to certain occasions when their devotion leads them to do some amazing things to see a game. But the mark of someone who deserves recognition in the Fan Hall of Fame is a lifetime of such actions. Extraordinary actions. In Bill's case, that notion is especially true. As you'll discover in his bio, Bill is reliant on a wheelchair to get around. Check this out (from his bio): "One of the many challenges Bill has overcome is traveling alone to see the Packers play. Despite his walking disability, Bill managed to fly alone to Green Bay to see the Packers in 1996, took a bus to Green Bay in 2004 (3 days each way), and traveled by train to San Francisco to see the Packers against the 49ers last December. His latest trip was flying to Green Bay to watch the Packers play against the Redskins in October 2007. His dream was to see Brett Favre play before he retired. These stories are just a few reasons why Bill Riley should be the 2007 Packer Fan of the Year."

Read his story and then please vote for Bill. You have until Friday, Dec. 7 to do so. The winner will be announced by Friday, Dec. 14.

Good luck, Bill! Here's hoping to see you in the Green Bay Packers Fan Hall of Fame!!!

Bounty-shmounty

So the NFL is investigating whether or not certain Packers players violated league rules by offering to pay teammates for some type of in-game performance. Last week, ESPN reported that a couple Packers defensive backs offered to pay the D-lineman $500 each if they held ViQueens running back Adrian Peterson to less than 100 yards. Peterson only had 45 yards rushing in that game, and departed for good in the second half after sustaining a knee injury after being tackled by cornerback Al Harris.

Question: do we expect players to know that they can't, on their own, give a little inside incentive to fellow teammates? Seems pretty natural. We've heard stories of running backs and QBs taking offensive lineman out after they've had great performances. Or players buying other players watches or some other bling as a reward or thank you. What's so different here? All this nervousness dates back to the "Bounty Bowl" Thanksgiving Day game in 1989 between the Cowboys and Eagles. Afterward, Dallas coach Jimmy "isn't my hair perfect" Johnson accused Eagles coach Buddy Ryan of putting bounties on QB Troy Aikman and kicker Luis Zendejas.

In an episode of today's ESPN Sports Center, one of the former football-player-turned-commentator (can't remember which one, they all blend together after a while, don't they?) was asked about this, after being shown a quote from Detroit QB John Kitna saying that if this type of thing isn't allowed it should be. The ESPN talking head said that this type of thing happens all the time across the league. It has happened for years and will continue to. It has nothing to do with hurting someone -- that was Kitna's point -- it's about incentives for performance.

In other words, it seems there is a bit of an over-reaction on the part of the league about this. Why they decided to do this with the Packers when they apparently could have done it with any team in the league? Your guess is as good as anyone's.

If you want to read more about this, check out this article.

Final: Packers 31 - Panthers 17

The final quarter saw the Panthers mount a drive with about 5 minutes to go. Al Harris took a snooze and let his man get wide open. This resulted, with run after catch, in nearly a 50 yard gain for the Panthers. This was soon followed by a screen pass during which the Packers missed several tackles, allowing the Panthers to take the ball down to the 5-yard line. Vinny threw a TD pass to make it 28-17. The Panthers attempted an onside kick, which was recovered by Donald Driver at the Panthers 37. The Pack failed to convert and tried their third field goal attempt of the day, a 47-yarder by Mason Crosby. Unlike the prior 2 attempts, this one was good. Pack 31 - Panthers 17. Vinny kept tossing the ball. Inexplicably, the Packers were rarely able to get any pressure on this standing stone in the backfield. Vinny can still throw completions when given the time. In fact, he even ran for 16 yards with just over a minute to go. How does that happen? Carolina gave it their last shot on 4th and 5 with about 55 seconds to go. The pass was broken up by A. J. Hawk. Game over. Packers 31 - Panthers 17.

This game was nowhere near as dominant as the game against the ViQueens. The field goal squad could obviously use some work. Those two missed attempts could be the difference in a close game. They have to get that worked out. The D-line didn't look like they really turned it loose on more than a few occasions, but perhaps they didn't need to.

This was the first of three games for the Pack in the next 12 days, with two of those games -- the next two -- on the road. This is a tough stretch. With the Lions losing today, the Pack is up by 3 games in the division. Assuming they don't become the turkey on Thanksgiving in Detroit, this sets up a major showdown in Dallas on Nov. 29. That game could well determine home field advantage throughout the playoffs. And bringing any team to Lambeau in January is something we can all get our chattering teeth into.

The Packers are 9-1. 13 out of their last 14. Sweet.

3rd quarter: Packers 28 - Panthers 10

The second half opened with the Packers receiving the kick off. Koren Robinson took the kick and had a 67-yard return down to the Carolina 28. A few plays later and the Packers were once again in the end zone courtesy of a 12-yard TD pass from Brett to Donald Lee. Packers 28 - Panthers 3. Following the kick to Carolina, Testaverde threw an interception on the first play to Charles Woodson at Carolina's 36-yard line. But for the second time today following a turnover, the Packers failed to convert and had to settle for a 49-yard field goal attempt. Which, also for the second time today, was no good. The first was blocked, this one was wide right. Carolina took over and orchestrated a 60+-yard drive culminating in a 2-yard TD pass for Carolina. Packers 28 - Panthers 10.

Halftime: Packers 21 - Panthers 3

The second quarter saw the Pack offense finally get into gear. There was a 49-yard pass to Donald Driver, who laid out to make the catch. This was followed a few plays later with a 5-yard TD pass to Greg Jennings. Packers 14 - Panthers 3. Ryan Grant had a few good runs in the quarter, including a 23-yard scamper. With just under 2 minutes left in the half, Brett hit Donald Lee with a 26-yard TD pass to go up 21-3. The end of the half ended with a horrible pass interference call on Jarrett Bush to take the ball down to about the 10 yard line. Following this play, Testaverde dropped back to pass and Corey Williams collared him causing a fumble with the Packers recovering. One knee later, halftime. Packers 21 - Panthers 3.

1st quarter: Packers 7 - Panthers 3

Weird quarter. Rookie DB Aaron Rouse intercepted Vinny Testaverde on Carolina's first series at about the Panthers 35-yard line. The Pack couldn't muster a first down of their own, and went for a 49-yard field goal, which was blocked by Julius Peppers. The Pack then held Carolina again, forcing them into a field goal which became a pooch punt instead. Tramon Williams returned it 94 yards for a touchdown. On its next series, ol' Vinny completed a 40+-yard pass to move the Panthers within field goal range, which they converted. Packers 7 - Panthers 3.

The Packers offense hasn't really been on the field long enough in the quarter to even get in sync. Which they are not. And, as was a concern, Panthers DE Julius Peppers has apparently awakened from his season-long slumber. He not only blocked the Pack's initial field goal attempt, he also already has a sack on Brett.

The Pack needs to have the offense wake up. It's game time, boys! And the Packers defense hasn't come close yet to sacking Vinny. C'mon, guys! He's a stationary object back there! Get him!!!

Pack vs Panthers mini-preview

The spread for this game has come down from 10 to 9-1/2. Big whoop. Granted, the Panthers have the potential for an upset, especially if the Packers are thinking about the Turkey Day game in Detroit or the game against the 'Boys in Big D a week later instead of taking care of today's business. But that's not likely. Yes, Julius Peppers may decide to reprise his years as a dominant pass rusher and give a gimpy Mark Tauscher (or his backup if he can't go) some problems. And Steve Smith, if he can go for the Panthers, might catch a few balls from Old Man Time -- that would be Vinny Testaverde -- himself. But unless the Packers turn the ball over countless times and regress to a point we haven't seen since Da Bearz game, this is another game in the "W" column for the Pack.

What more is there to say?

Oh, yeah...Go Pack Go!!!

Pack favored by 10

Going into Sunday's game at Lambeau versus Carolina, the Packers are currently favored by 10 points. That's a LOT of points. On the other hand, we thought 6 points was a big spread against the ViQueens. So much for that idea.

Another statistical tidbit: with Vinny Testaverde named the starter for Sunday's game, this game will see the oldest combination of starting quarterbacks ever in an NFL game. Vinny is 44 and Brett is 38. Who held the previous record? Vinny (a-duh) as a spry 43-year-old about a month ago and that young whipper snapper, 36-year-old Kurt Warner for Arizona. Birthdays have recently edged both Vinny and Brett into this heretofore unseen stratosphere of...I'm sorry...the hyperbole started to run rampant there for second.

Anyway, you'll be watching history. Of course, as Packer fans, we do that every week that Brett Favre plays, don't we?

What motivates the Packers?

Just a quick heads up on a really good article giving insights into what motivates some of the individual players on the Green Bay Packers. Hard luck stories, the drive to excel, feeling the need to prove the naysayers wrong...lots of things drive this current group of players. Whatever they are, they are obviously driving individuals -- young and inexperienced players as well as seasoned veterans -- to excel at high levels this season. You can read the article here.

Packers keep flying high

As if their 8-1 record isn't enough -- actually, it is the most important thing, isn't it? -- the Packers now have the NFL's #1 passing offense. Not surprising, since for most of this season that was the offense. You throw a lot and complete a high percentage of passes, including some long TDs and -- BAM! -- you cop the #1 spot from the Patriots.

Now, consider that if the Pack can continue to have a respectable run game along the lines that has emerged over the last three weeks what that can do to continue to open up the passing game. Isn't it amazing to see these five-receiver sets that they are starting to integrate into the offense? It becomes a defense's nightmare. Look who you'd have to try to cover: Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, James Jones, Ruvell Martin, Koren Robinson. Actually, the Packers could throw Donald Lee in the mix and now you have six quality receivers to try to cover. With Brett Favre throwing the ball nonetheless. C'mon. Start waving the white flag.

Oh sure, the Pack is dead last in rushing still. But if Ryan Grant can keep pluggin' away for 100 yard or so each game, so what? That's enough to keep the opposing defense worried about stopping the run, which just gives ol' #4 and his merry band of receivers even more opportunities to make plays down field.

Of course, one area where the offense still is having some difficulty is finishing with a TD once it gets into the red zone. Too many time this year the Packers have driven inside the opponent's 20 only to have to settle for a field goal attempt rather than come away with a touchdown. Given the level of play of the Pack's defense, and the ability of the offense to eat up the play clock, this perhaps isn't as big a problem as for some other teams. But it is one of those areas you'd like to see them clean up. And no doubt they will. Seems as if most of the problem areas for the Pack have been getting addressed as the season goes on. They are getting better each week. That's the sign of a champion in the making.

Keep winning, get home field advantage for the playoffs and maybe we can have a rematch of that Packers vs. Pats Super Bowl...and even better, come away with the same result. It's still too soon to talk about bringing the Lombardi Trophy back to Green Bay...but our dreams have just a bit more of a dash of reality about them than in recent years. And to that, we can give our thanks to this tremendous passing offense which has developed over the season and to the running game which is starting to come around at just the right time.

Packers smash the ViQueens 34-0

On the 'Queens first possession of the fourth quarter, they mounted their second drive of the game, down to inside the Packers 10. A pass to the end zone by Brooks Bollinger was tipped by the receiver and intercepted by Charles Woodson, who took it back out to the 4-yard line. Shutout preserved so far.

To give you a real good idea how bad things were for the 'Queens, on this Packers drive with just under 6 minutes to go, Brett threw a 30-something yard pass to Ruvell Martin in the end zone (after an earlier long completion to James Jones down the sidelines). The pass was underthrown and thrown late. Defensive back Cedric Griffin went up for the interception and had it his hands before fellow defender Darren "used to be" Sharper came flying across and slammed into him, causing the ball to pop up and right into the hands of Packers receiver Ruvell Martin. Score: Pack 34 - 'Queens 0. When it's going your way...

Brett passed for more than 300 yards for the sixth time this season, and got his 100th career home field win. Only John Elway has more wins at home, with 104.

One injury note -- although to what extent is unknown at this time -- is that right tackle Mark Tauscher got hurt near the end of the third quarter. He was seen walking to the locker room with a bit of a gimpy leg/ankle with about 3-1/2 minutes to go in the game. During the quarter, the Packers shifted Jason Spitz to Tauscher's position and rookie Allen Barbre moved into Spitz' right guard spot. Seemed like things didn't miss much of a beat. In the last Packers series of the game, back up QB Aaron Rodgers made an appearance. The Pack had to punt with about 2 minutes left.

The 'Queens then had a 49-yard gain on a simple screen pass to Chester Taylor, with a few players missing tackles, which took the ball down to the Packers 30-yard line. The Pack then followed that up with their second sack of the day, this one by Johnny Jolly. The Packers got another sack to take the 'Queens to 4th and 7. A short pass to former Packer Robert Ferguson was stopped short of a first down, allowing the Packers to take over and preserve the shut out. This is the first time the 'Queens have been shut out since they were beaten by New Orleans 26-0 in 1991. And, to cap it off, this is the worst defeat of the 'Queens by the Pack -- ever! Gotta like that.

BTW, Adrian Peterson never returned to the game after his injury near the end of the third quarter and was held to just 45 yards on 11 carries.

Important Packers stats: Brett was 33 of 46 for 351 yards, 3 TDs and no INTs; Ryan Grant rushed for 119 yards on 25 carries. Oh, and Coach Mike McCarthy is now 16-9 in his first 25 games as head coach of the Packers -- no other coach in Packers history has won as many as quickly. Of course, when you win 12 of your last 13 games going back to last season...

This was a tremendous effort by the defense, holding the ViQueens to under 100 yards total rushing for the day. And it was nearly perfect execution -- but not quite -- by the Packers offense. The Pack is humming along nicely. Next up is Carolina, followed four days later by a trip to Detroit for Thanksgiving. That's a quick turnaround. But the flip side of that is that the Packers will then have 10 days to get ready for their showdown with the Cowboys in Dallas.

It's great to be a Packers fan! 8-1 is mighty sweet.

3rd quarter: Pack 27 - 'Queens 0

The Packers received the second half kickoff and proceeded to put together an opening TD drive, keyed by a great 32-yard pass reception by Greg Jennings down to the 7 yard line. Jennings went up between two defenders to grab the ball. From the one-yard line, Brett faked a hand off to Grant and threw an easy little fade pass to TE Donald Lee in the end zone. Packers 20 - 'Queens 0. Another item of note: RB Ryan Grant went over 100 yards rushing on this opening drive, which took 5:31 off the clock. The Pack's second drive began at their own 30 and resulted in an eight-yard TD pass from Brett to Ruvell Martin. Near the end of the 3rd quarter, the 'Queens finally mounted a drive, before turning the ball back on downs. During that drive, Adrian Peterson wound up being helped from the game after being tackled by Al Harris. Looked as if it was a right knee problem.

Halftime: Packers 13 - 'Queens 0

The Packers are dominating the ViQueens in terms of both time of possession (19:56 to 10:01) and level of play. Still, as in other games this season, there were missed opportunities which meant the Pack left points on the field, including an end of half drive that got the ball down to the 'Queens 7-yard line before a false start penalty (of course) and a high pass in the end zone off the fingertips of Koren Robinson made the Pack settle for its second field goal of the half.

Adrian Peterson has been held to 9 carries and 45 yards. Not only is the Packers defense doing a great job containing him, but when the Packers offense is able to stay on the field nearly twice as long as the 'Qeens that keeps Peterson on the sidelines. That's the best defense of all.

Brett surpassed 60,000 yards passing on a pass to Donald Driver in the quarter, joining Dan Marino as the only two QBs who have passed for more than 60,000 yards in their career. RB Ryan Grant is approaching 100 yards rushing (92), which would be the first time this season that the 'Queens have allowed a 100-yard rusher.

If the Packers play the second half with the same intensity that they have played the first half, 8-1 is only 30 minutes of football away.

1st quarter: Packers 7 - ViQueens 0

The story of the first quarter was not RB Adrian Peterson for the ViQueens, but RB Ryan Grant for the Packers, who rushed for more than 80 years in the quarter, including a 30-yard TD run. The Packers defense has so far kept Peterson in check. As expected, QB Brooks Bollinger is, well, looking like the backup he is, throwing off the mark on the few passes he's attempted. What's a bit surprising, though, is that Brett has been a bit off the mark on a few of his passes, overthrowing Donald Driver on a sure TD route and misconnecting on a few other passes as well.

Pack vs ViQueens Preview

Today's the day the ViQueens visit Lambeau Field. The Pack won at the Humpty Dump earlier this season, and will win at home again today. They're favored by 6 points. While you like to see the Pack finally getting that kind of respect from the oddsmakers, that's a big point spread, particularly in this rivalry and no matter how good or bad the respective teams are at the time of play.

Basically, the 'Queens have nothing on offense except one of the best young running backs to enter the league since...Reggie Bush? OK, that was just a year ago. But Adrian Peterson is the real deal. And the Packers will have to focus their defensive efforts on stopping him. Doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out. Peterson will get some yards. Probably more than 100. But as long as he doesn't set another single-game rushing record for the second week in a row, and doesn't make a habit of visiting the end zone, there should be no excuses for the Packers not coming out of this game 8-1. The 'Queens are down to former UW Badgers QB Brooks Bollinger as starter. While Bollinger was a great college QB, particularly within the UW scheme, he is nothing more than a serviceable backup (sorry, Brooks). Don't look for him to win games.

As for the 'Queens defense, they have an excellent d-line; one of the best in the league in terms of rushing defense. So, let's think about this: the Packers rushing offense still stinks and they go against a great rushing defense. OK, nothing different than the rest of the season from a Packers standpoint. Keep the ball in the hands of ol' #4 and his band of merry receivers and all will be well. Oh sure, former Packer Darren "used to be" Sharper (my apologies to Chris Berman) will be ball-hawking in the secondary. Might even get a pick off his old teammate when he guesses correctly. But he will not be able to keep up with receivers going deep. Just ask Champ Bailey and Dre' Bly.

The Packers defense will have a change at safety, with rookie Aaron Rouse replacing Nick Collins who was injured in last week's game. Rouse is a different type of safety at 6'4". He has speed and size. Perhaps against a more experienced quarterback Rouse could be exposed as the rookie he is. But today, he has an opportunity to make plays particularly if the Packers defensive line continues its fine play, putting pressure on the opposing quarterback. With his size, he can also be an effective player against the run. Aaron Kampman could again have a big day with pressures and sacks, although Bollinger is a mobile QB and may negate some of the sack possibilities as a result. But that's only a factor if the 'Queens forget to hand off early and often to Mr. Peterson.

On the offensive line, the Packers will probably be going without Junius Coston at right guard. He continues to have a sore ankle which has been limiting his play. If he can't go, Jason Spitz will likely start at right guard with Daryn Colledge at left. Coach McCarthy had a meeting with his guards earlier in the week during which he expressed his displeasure with their performance not only in the running game, but also in terms of their protection of Brett Favre. We'll see how well they got that message, particularly against a stout 'Queens d-line.

This could be a classic letdown game for the Pack, coming off two remarkable road wins. But a letdown game doesn't come very often against division rivals. And it definitely shouldn't come against a team the Pack is far superior to. Of course, if they were to get sloppy and commit turnovers, or let Adrian Peterson scamper about, things could take a nasty turn. But the odds are against it. Just like they are against the ViQueens.

Count on the Packers to get it done back in the friendly confines of Lambeau.

Red flag key to Green 'n' Gold win

With some time to digest yesterday's Packers win at Kansas City, we can begin to look at individual keys to the win. While the Pack's playmakers did just that -- make plays -- in the second half, perhaps one of the biggest keys to the win was that little red flag in Coach McCarthy's pocket.

With just under 3 minutes remaining in the game and the Packers leading 23-22, KC QB Damon Huard completed a 36-yard pass to wide receiver Jeff Webb along the sidelines behind Al Harris at the Green Bay 42. It appeared Webb had both feet in before his momentum took him out of bounds. However, replays showed that his second foot came down on the line, thereby being an incomplete pass. Moments passed, and KC was in no hurry to get to the line to run a play...thank goodness. Apparently, the Packers assistant coaches upstairs saw the replays and called down to the sidelines. A camera shot of Coach McCarthy and one of the assistants on the sidelines seemed to show the assistant getting the word and telling McCarthy to challenge the play. He got that flag out and threw it as the Chiefs were breaking their huddle. Challenge made.

And, in those words we love to hear, "Upon further review...", challenge won. Talk about taking the wind out of the Chiefs' sails. Instead of a first down at the Packers 42 and needing a field goal to go ahead, well, sorry about that. Instead, the Pack gets the ball back after holding the Chiefs, Brett hits Donald Driver for a big one-handed catch over the middle for about 44 yards, setting up Mason Crosby's fourth field goal of the day. With the Pack now up by 4 with under 2 minutes to go, the Chiefs needed a TD to win. Except, the final TD went to the Packers on Charles Woodson's interception return with about a minute left in the game.

Green 'n' Gold are undoubtedly our favorite colors in the Packers Universe. But on this day in KC, red was also a very good color. Not in the form of the opposing team's colors, but that little red flag in Coach McCarthy's pocket.

For a more complete review of this key situation, you can read about it here.

Final: Packers 33 - Chiefs 22

Oh man. There were six (or was it seven?) lead changes in this game. The last few minutes were the key: a 60-yard touchdown pass from Brett Favre to Greg Jennings, and a 29-yard punt return by Charles Woodson to set up a field goal that put the Pack ahead by 4 with a little more than a minute to go. Having forced KC to use all their timeouts, KC was in a hurry-up offense. On third-and-two, Charles Woodson intercepted a Damon Huard pass and returned it 46 yards for a TD, putting the Pack ahead by 11. Stick a fork in it. Done!

Brett finally gets a win against KC. Like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, he's also beat every team in the league. He was 24 of 34, for 360 yards, with 2 TDs and 2 INTs.

The defense played very well in the first half, but allowed KC back in in the second half, before finally closing things down. The Packers offense did what it needed to do.

There are lots of details in this closing quarter which are probably best left to the paid journalists to convey (including a recap of numerous penalties). As for us, all we need to know is the Packers are 7-1. And the ViQueens come to Lambeau next Sunday.

It's great to be a Packers fan!

3rd quarter, Pack 13 - Chiefs 7

Missed opportunities is the continuing theme of this game for the Packers. After having a promising drive of passes and runs, the Packers failed to get a first down at the Chiefs' 42 on a third-and-one play. That also is a worrying trend of this season: failure to be able to rush for one yard when needed. This led to a missed 52-yard field goal, which Crosby hooked wide to the left. On the Chiefs' next possession, however, LB A.J. Hawk got an interception and took the ball to the Chiefs' 30. A swing pass to Grant got the ball down to the 15, before a holding penalty -- of course -- took the ball back to the 25. A pass to the end zone was ruled out, as Donald Lee couldn't get both feet down. The next play was a pass to Gregg Jennings over the middle, catching the ball at about the 10, and then breaking tackles to take the ball over the goal line.

Other developments are on the injury front. Safety Nick Collins went down with what looked like a bad knee injury, and D-lineman Corey Williams was also carted to the locker room.

The Packers have had 22 plays inside the opponent's territory to this point in the game; the Chiefs have had one...and yet, we're only up by 6 points. What kind of bizzaro world are we playing in???

Pack 6 - Chiefs 7 at Halftime

The first half of this game can rightly be called one of missed opportunities, and a bonehead move just before half. The Packers first drive stopped when Brett's pass to Greg Jennings was intercepted deep in Chiefs' territory. Their last play of the half led to a second interception setting up the Chiefs at the Packers' 30. Instead of running the clock out on third down with 35 seconds left, the Pack turned the ball over. That play was followed by a pass to the end zone and a pass interference play on -- who else? -- Atari Bigby. The Chiefs got a gift TD going into the half, with a rush from the 1-yard line by Larry Johnson. The Chiefs did nothing offensively the entire first half -- generating a grand total of 62 yards of offense -- yet lead 7-6.

In addition to the two interceptions, the Pack also had two fumbles, one on a botched hand off between Brett and RB Ryan Grant, and the other on a sack of Brett. Fortunately, the Packers recovered both fumbles. So, those could be missed opportunities by the Chiefs, too...if one were a Chiefs fan...which we are not. The Pack also missed an interception when Nick Collins couldn't hang on to the ball. The other missed opportunity came on yet another drive by the Packers. This was a third down pass ready for a conversion near the red zone, but Jennings dropped the ball. This led to Mason Crosby's first field goal, a 48-yarder by Mason Crosby. Late in the half, the Pack once again executed a drive, with the key play being a big pass play and run after catch by Donald Lee down the middle of the field. But the Pack stalled out and had to take its second field goal of the day with just under 2 minutes to go.

The Packers are getting opportunities, but not finishing. It is something that we saw last week against the Broncos, and earlier in the year against Da Bearz. When the opponent gives you the breaks you need, you better get the ball in the end zone...just like KC did with their second interception. The Pack has dominated this game, but the Chiefs were only one play away from having the lead. And they got it. That's never a good thing. The Packers need to get that fixed in the second half.

Packers - Chiefs Preview

We're just a few hours away from the kickoff in KC. The Pack are on the road against an AFC opponent for the second week in a row. It was a short week for them, too, coming off the Monday night OT win in Denver. And again they find themselves going into one of the loudest venues in the league and the last NFL city in which Brett Favre has yet to win a game. Let's just hope the Denver victory is a precursor to get that last monkey off Brett's -- and the Pack's -- back.

All this leads to the Packers being 2-point underdogs, despite them being 6-1 and the Chiefs being 4-3.

So, what to expect? The Packers' defensive line is going up against a weak KC O-line. Aaron Kampman and the others on that emerging D-line should be able to tee off all day long. Damon Huard is the QB. Yawn. TE Tony Gonzalez has to be kept in check, but with pressure on the QB that should do-able. RB Larry Johnson is a pounder and can cause damage if he gets room to get going. The way the Pack D-line and linebackers have been playing, that shouldn't happen. On the other side of the ball, though, the Chiefs have Jared Allen at defensive end. He's quick off the ball, and could give LT Chad Clifton problems if he's not on his game. At worst, there could be sacks aplenty, as well as false start penalties as Cliffy tries to gain position as quickly as possible.

As for what the Pack has to offer in this game, Koren Robinson will be on the field for the first time in more than a year, returning kicks. Whether he sees time at receiver or not is still undetermined, but it seems likely especially if the Packers go to 4 receiver sets. Expect Brett's growing chemistry with young receivers Greg Jennings and James Jones to be on display. And let's not forget ol' Double D, Donald Driver, who could also have a big day. TE Donald Lee could also help open the middle and stretch the field...something that has already earned him contract renewal talks. As for the running game, Ryan Grant will be able to show whether his 104 yards against the Broncos was merely a fluke or whether he is the real deal.

The Packers have the better team. The Chiefs have the definite home field advantage. If the Packers can get up early and take the crowd out of the game that will help considerably. Take the Pack to beat the spread and win this game.

Robinson activated, Wynn put on IR, Grant named starting RB

As expected, the Packers activated WR Koren Robinson on Tuesday. To make room for him on the roster, rather than release receiver/returner Shawn Bodiford as some had speculated, the Packers placed rookie running back DeShawn Wynn on injured reserve for the season.

This does probably make the most sense, as Wynn has had problems all season staying on the field. After being named the starting running back for Monday night's game, he suffered neck and shoulder injuries on the first play of the game. One of the reasons Wynn supposedly fell to the seventh round in this year's draft was that he had a reputation for not being tough, for not playing through the dings that come with being a running back. Now, injuries are injuries. It's just that there are some injuries players have to learn to play through if they are going to have a NFL career. Whether Wynn will acquire some playing toughness will now have to wait to next season. He certainly has the physical attributes to be a powerful runner. There were flashes of that in the few carries he actually had. But...

Ryan Grant was named the starting running back on Monday. After his performance against the Broncos -- 22 carries for 104 yards -- he certainly deserves the opportunity. As Packers broadcaster, Wayne Larrivee, said about him, he was running with authority and delivering blows on the tacklers. And that's something that hadn't been seen much this season. Granted, Denver has the league's worst rushing defense. But the Packers had the league's worst rushing offense. At least we finally saw a glimmer of hope for that part of the game plan going forward. Let's hope that Grant can stay healthy for the remaining nine games.

It wasn't a dream

That's right boys and girls, the magical Packers led by their grand old wizard, Favre the Incomparable, beat back a herd of Broncos last night in the starry Mile High City. It really, really happened!

This was the first time ever that the fabled Pack won a regular season game in six tries at Denver. Why, they hadn't even won a preseason game there. And Brett had never even thrown a TD pass there in his few prior visits. The 6-1 start ties the best ever in the Favre era, happening only two other times. And over the last 11 games, including last season, the Pack has won 10. The only team better over this same span? The Patriots.

So, when things are going this good, what's there to complain about? A few things. We won't dwell on them now, as it's still nice to bask in the glow of a fantastic win. But, let just say the word "penalties," for starters. Some critical -- and outright bonehead -- mistakes. Especially by D-back, Atari Bigby. The best line that came out about his play, and I don't know who the original source was, was this: "Atari played more like a Commodore 64."

But, as I said, let's just enjoy this for another day or so and then we can critique...as needed.

...and all Packers fans lived happily ever after.

First play in overtime: Brett throws an 82-yard TD pass!

On the first play from scrimmage in overtime, Brett Favre threw an 82-yard TD pass to Greg Jennings. Game over. Packers win 19-13.

The legend continues.

The Packers are 6-1.

Just enjoy it...we'll worry about the analysis tomorrow.

Wow!

It's overtime in Denver: 13-13

Denver kicker Jason Elam kicked a game-tying field goal as time expired to take the game to overtime, at 13-13.

Packers won the toss. A chance to yank this one back from a give-away.

Stay tuned...

Halftime: Packers 13 - Broncos 7

The Packers are ahead at half, but doing their best to keep the Broncos in the game. Two penalties on Atari Bigby on the same drive in the first quarter led to the Broncos' TD. A 79-yard TD pass -- about 40 yard in the air and 39 after the catch -- to James Jones on the next drive by the Pack tied the score. The Broncos drove the ball to the Packers 1-yard line where they proceeded to fumble the snap, with the Packers recovering. The Pack then executed a 98-yard drive, but came up short on a running play -- despite actually running the ball well (more on that in a moment) -- and had to settle for a field goal. The Packers defense is playing well, putting pressure on Broncos QB, Jay Cutler. The Pack was able to once again execute a solid drive on running plays and once again got the ball down to about the 1-yard line. False start penalties on Tony Moll and Chad Clifton derailed a likely TD. The fact that the Pack dominated the Broncos, while having to settle for 2 field goals after getting to the one, is not a good sign.

Now as to the running game, the Packers actually were running effectively, thanks to Ryan Grant. DeShawn Wynn got the start but -- you guessed it -- went out after about the first series with some little ding. Enter Ryan Grant, who seems to be running with some real power and authority. Nice to see. But would really be nice to see a rushing TD in this game, particularly from inside the 5-yard line...assuming the line doesn't false start.

If the Pack can stop the stupid penalties and take advantage of their domination of the Broncos, the Pack should win this game by more than 3 points. If they lose it, it won't be because they were beaten...it will be like Da Bearz game where they gave it away.

Stay tuned...second half underway...

Pack vs. Broncos Mini-Preview

This will be brief -- more later if time permits...

The Broncos are favored by 3 -- home field advantage. The Packers are 5-1 coming off a bye week. The Broncos are 3-3, with their 3 wins coming on last-second field goals.

The Packers have the worst rushing offense in the NFL. The Broncos, coincidentally, have the worst rushing defense in terms of yards allowed. So, one team or the other will improve their standing in that area. The Packers will start rookie DeShawn Wynn and play Vernand Morency on passing downs and for a change of pace. And let's not forget rookie fullback Korey Hall, who also is becoming a fine receiving option ala William Henderson. If Wynn can toughen up and play with the dings that seem to take him out quickly, the Packers could have a good night rushing...that's assuming the offensive line can effectively employ its zone blocking scheme, which it hasn't so far this season. If the Broncos bring up safeties to help with the run -- assuming that would be needed -- then look for Brett and the receivers to have a big night. This despite the fact that Brett has never thrown a TD in Denver. It's about time.

What can the Broncos bring on offense? Depends on whether second-year QB Jay Cutler continues the type of play he had last week against the Steelers, where he had the best game of his young career. He has a couple capable receivers, although that guy that used to play in GB before whining his way out of town (what was his name? Walker?) is out with a knee injury. They also have a pretty good running back in Travis Henry. But if the Packers defense performs as it has been, they should be able to rattle the young Cutler and keep things in check.

Give the Packers the edge at QB -- obviously! -- and at receivers. Give the Broncos the edge at RB. Give the Pack the edge on defense. Home field advantage goes to Denver, of course. This seems to add up to a tight one. I'd still take the Pack to beat the spread...and win the game.

Sending Max off in style

The memorial service for Packers great and broadcaster Max McGee was held yesterday in Minnesota. Teammates, family, friends, and fans all showed up to send Max off with, according to reports, as many laughs as tears. And how could it be otherwise? Max was one of those unique personalities that not only knew how to enjoy himself, but also to help others do the same. That came through in the remembrances that some of his teammates shared. Broadcast partner Jim Irwin had one of the most tearful moments, as he recalled the feeling he had the last time they broadcast together (Packers playoff loss to San Fran) and how he felt like "the loneliest broadcaster on the planet" because he didn't have a chance to say goodbye to his old friends; he said -- fighting back tears -- he felt the same way now, because he didn't have a chance to say goodbye to his old friend, Max.

You can read more about the service, as well as access other recollections about Max, here and here.

Thanks for all the memories on the field and in the broadcast booth, Max. Now you're moving on to the really Big Game! Say hello to Vince and Ray and Curly and Tony and Don...

Shocking! Harrell may not play due to injury!

Packers GM Ted Thompson's first round 2007 draft pick, Justin Harrell, is -- surprise -- hurt...again. The number 16 pick in the draft, the oft-injured college defensive lineman, the player selected at a position where the Packers had an abundance of players already while running back was a glaring need, yes, Justin Harrell could be a candidate for injured reserve.

Inactive for the first four games of the season, and playing a grand total of 8 snaps versus Da Bearz and 12 plays against Washington, Harrell will miss at least a couple weeks...as if anyone would notice. According to head coach Mike McCarthy, "He had an offensive lineman roll up on the back of his legs (in Tuesday's practice). He may be out a couple of weeks." The injury is described as a serious ankle sprain. Depending upon how serious it is, it's not inconceivable that the Pack might place Harrell on IR in order to make the roster spot available for Koren Robinson when his roster exemption expires in a week or so.

It is, of course, sad that this young man has had and continues to have so many injury problems. It is the reason that no one expected him to be a first round draft pick...except for Ted Thompson, obviously. Maybe he'll eventually come around and be another body on the D-line that can be rotated in and out. But to have wasted the #16 pick on a player such as this is something which is not only apparent this year, but will be for years ahead in terms of missed opportunities and impact...especially where we needed it most: running back!

RIP Max McGee

You know something is wrong when you turn the radio on in the morning and the sports guys are not doing their regular 15-after-the-hour time slot, but are talking with the other news folks at an odd time...words and phrases are spoken like "tragic," "Packers legend," "one-of-a-kind," "he was 75," "Minneapolis suburb," "fellow teammate Paul Hornung." First thoughts: an old Packer had died. When I heard Hornung's name, I immediately thought of Max McGee. Eventually, the radio folks got around to repeating the sad news: Max McGee is dead. Fell off the roof of his Minnesota home late Saturday afternoon while cleaning off leaves, despite his wife apparently telling him not to do so; it's unclear whether he was alone at the time, but sounds like it. Emergency personnel attempted to revive him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gone. A Lombardi Legend. A great player who also became a great radio broadcaster of Packers games along with Jim Irwin.

Here's a piece of trivia for the youngsters reading this: who was the first person to catch a touchdown pass in a Super Bowl? That's right, Max McGee in Super Bowl I. He had had one of his infamous nights on the town the evening before, figuring he wouldn't be playing much if at all. He had only caught four passes all year long in a reserve roll, after all. According to the the story, he wound up catching about an hour's sleep on the bus to the game. When an injury to starter Boyd Dowler on the second play of the game necessitated Max going in, he couldn't even find his helmet; had to play the first series with someone else's. He wound up having one of the best performances in Super Bowl history: seven catches for 138 yards and two touchdowns.

Max McGee: Packers Hall of Fame member. #85. A legend as a player and as a person.

He was truly one of a kind. Perhaps it's fitting there is no Packers game today. Gives us a moment to reflect on the life of one of the great receivers and personalities in Packers history.

You can read an article about Max here. No doubt there will be lots of tributes coming over the days ahead. And rightly so. Thanks, Max, for all the memories and all the laughs.

Flash: Koren Robinson reinstated effective Oct. 18

As noted in my post here earlier today, Koren Robinson's one-year anniversary of his suspension is today. League sources had said a decision regarding his reinstatement by the Commissioner would be made soon. According to an announcement from the Packers, the decision has come down and Robinson is reinstated effective tomorrow, Oct. 18.

Here is the statement from Packers GM Ted Thompson: "The league has informed us that Koren Robinson has been reinstated, effective Thursday, October 18, 2007. We understand and appreciate the Commissioner's consideration in this matter. It's been a year since we've seen Koren, so our first step is to have him return to Green Bay. The Packers will request a roster exemption, during which time we would see where Koren is at in terms of football shape. We are aware how difficult this past year has been for Koren, but the Packers are grateful for the progress he's made, as evidenced by this reinstatement."

Justin Harrell sighting! In a game! Doing something!

Remember the Packers first round draft pick this year? You know, number 16 overall? Ol' jersey #91? No? Not surprising. Justin Harrell has been just about invisible in his rookie year. Not even active for a few games and when he is, well, does anyone really notice?

Apparently, yes. At least once. And the person noticing just happens to be head coach Mike McCarthy. In this week's episode of the Mike McCarthy TV show, while showing the replay of the fumble recovery by Charles Woodson -- who also was the player guest on the show -- McCarthy made a point to not only show the initial strip of the ball by Corey Williams but to replay the replay, from two different angles, showing how -- you guessed it! -- Justin Harrell actually made a key crushing block to likely eliminate the only early tackle threat on Woodson. Have to admit, there were so many things happening so quickly on that play that the only way you would actually see it would be in slo-mo replay...but it was a heckuva block.

So, let's give a pat on the back to Mr. Harrell for actually making a key contribution to the Packers win on Sunday. Still, as a defensive lineman, blocking isn't what it's about. It would be nice if he is eventually able to make more than the two tackles he is credited with so far this season.

Let's also remind GM Ted Thompson that, oh, I dunno, maybe a running back like Marshawn Lynch might have been worth moving up a few spots for. Adrian Peterson would have been nice, too. (Sigh)

Bubba might be out

One of the negatives coming out of the win on Sunday was seeing Bubba Franks heading to the locker room on the cart. Turns out he has a sprained knee and will likely miss the game against Denver on Oct. 29. He is still undergoing tests to determine the severity of the injury, although in an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel it's noted that "a source close to the situation said it was a sprain of the posterior cruciate ligament."

This leaves the Packers with Donald Lee as the team's only tight end. So look for a practice squad call up for...someone.

Koren Robinson reinstatement decision soon

Today is the one-year anniversary of WR Koren Robinson's league suspension for violations of its substance abuse policy. Robinson has applied for reinstatement and league sources, according to reports, indicate Commissioner Roger Goodell will make a decision soon. Apparently, Robinson and the Packers will be notified and then the decision will be publicly announced. Given that Robinson has been serving his suspension quietly and working out to be ready for his return, we can only hope the decision comes quickly. QB Brett Favre has been perhaps the loudest voice on this matter, stating more than once that he just doesn't understand the league policy which does not allow these players, who need support, any contact whatsoever with their team during the time of the suspension. Have to agree with Brett on that one. You have a feeling, too, that Brett is anxiously looking forward to adding Mr. Robinson into the mix with the rest of his outstanding receivers.

Pack vs. 'Skins Recap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pack beat 'Skins 17-14

This was a telling game, as noted in my pre-game post. The Packers' statement coming out of this game was that they have a solid defense. A defense that came up big when it mattered most, a defense that generated turnovers, including a turnover that turned into the game winning points courtesy of Charles Woodson, who had a very good game.

We'll analyze this a bit more later, the good as well as the bad -- and there was enough of both in this game. But for now, all we need to know is the Pack is 5-1 going into the bye week, a couple games ahead of its next nearest foe in the division. We may regret the fact that that total could and should be 6-0. But at the start of the season if anyone had said the team would be going into the off week with only 1 loss, especially looking at the schedule, I think every Packers fan would have said, "We'll take it!" And so we shall. And if the Cowboys lose to the Patriots today, we could be tied for the best record in the conference. Not bad. Not bad at all.

So let's just enjoy this one for a while. More later.

Pack vs. 'Skins Preview

With less than a couple hours to game time, let's take a brief look at today's game. The Pack are favored by 3 points at home...just as they were last week...OK, never mind that one. The Packers are the youngest team in the league, the Redskins are the oldest...except at QB where things are a bit reversed...although both QBs hail from Mississippi. Both teams have solid defenses. The 'Skins -- just like every other team in the league -- have a better running game than the Pack. The Packers are 4-1 (should be 5-0!), while the 'Skins are 3-1.

Coming off last week's fiasco, the Pack doesn't want to be staring at a 2-game loosing streak going into the bye week. For several weeks, the Pack was sloppy with the ball and with penalties. Last week it came back to bite them. One would expect corrections to have been made.

So it comes down, as it usually does, to execution. This will be a tight game. If the Packers execute as they are capable of doing, they should win this one and go into the bye sitting pretty at 5-1. If they continue the play of last week, it will be a disappointing loss. This is a telling game for the Packers. We'll know what they have to say in a couple hours.

Go Pack!!!

"Calling number 74,659...number 74,659"

74,659. That would be approximately your number in the waiting line if you had placed your name on the Packers season ticket list a couple days ago. Some folks who put their names on the list for tickets in 1970 -- 1970! -- finally got their tickets this year. Of course, something like a zillion (roughly) consecutive sellouts at Lambeau Field -- with no single game ticket sales mind you -- tends to make the wait for those precious seats on the benches a long one (yes, folks, Lambeau doesn't have individual seats, just numbers on aluminum benches...which, when everyone looks like the Michelin Man in the midst of winter, makes for some interesting seating indeed). This is, as the experts would say, an indication of a rabid fan base. Ya think?

Anyway, there is a great article about Packers season ticket holders at Rick Reilly's column on SI.com. Be sure to check it out.

Happy Birthday Brett!

OK, it's a day late and several million dollars short of his usual pay scale, but we didn't want to let Brett's birthday (Oct. 10) pass without extending a sincere Happy Birthday wish to Brett Lorenzo Favre on the occasion of his 38th b-day. Apparently, not even many of his teammates knew, according to some locker room interviews. So, if you didn't remember, you could actually consider yourself a member of the team...at least in that regard.

Robinson could be reinstated next Wednesday

According to reports, Packers receiver Koren Robinson could be reinstated as early as next Wednesday after serving his one-year suspension for a repeat violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy. He hopes to have a meeting with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell this week about the matter. He has apparently been working out in Arizona and is in great physical condition.

Brett Favre has spoken with Robinson, and talked about him in his weekly meeting with the media. According to PackersNews.com, Favre said, "I think he can offer a lot. In just my conversations with him -- and I don't doubt this -- his knee was hurt, he had a lot of off-field issues, whereas this year I think he knows where he stands, and not looking over his shoulder. He said physically-speaking, he feels great. He said ... 'the only shape I'm not in is game shape,' and the only way you get in that is you play."

Brett sounded excited about what Robinson could add to an already potent receiving corps. He noted that Robinson is still a young player and can be an example of what somebody can do when they get their life in order (paraphrasing there folks).

Wells lost for at least 2 weeks

Starting center Scott Wells suffered a fractured orbital bone around his eye in the third quarter of last night's game and, according to the Packers, will in all likelihood miss Sunday's game against Washington. The week afterward is a bye so he will have extra time to heal. Replacing him yesterday and this coming weekend will be second-year pro Jason Spitz. Spitz' 14 career starts have all been at guard, but he filled in well last night at center after Wells' injury, and got a lot of reps at the position during preseason. Wells has also been nursing a sore hamstring the last few weeks so Spitz has been getting reps during the game weeks as well...just in case. Looks as if "just in case" has arrived.

The morning after: pain and misery fill the air

We all thought it was a bad dream. Losing to Da Bearz. At Lambeau. Bucket loads of turnovers and penalties. A head-in-the-sand play calling approach in the second half.

But then, we wake up this morning and find that it's all true. The horror...the horror.

Packers 20 - Da Bearz 27. I think I'm gonna hurl.

Not much to be said really, at least in this still wounded mode.

It's in sad times like these that we turn to those sources of wisdom and clarity that have long inspired mankind with their depths of insight. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you, Homer Simpson.

The Pack gave it away...literally. Pack 20 - Da Bearz 27

As my pre-game post indicated, the only way the Packers would lose this game would be if they gave the ball away. And they did. Five times. Two fumbles on consecutive series in the first half by rookie receiver James Jones which halted likely touchdown drives, an ill-advised and forced pass by Brett resulting in an interception deep in the Pack's own territory, a fumble on a punt return by usually sure-handed Charles Woodson, and a final last-second Hail Mary interception in the endzone. You saw glimpses of this sloppy play last week, but the ball bounced the Pack's way. Tonight, it bounced the other way.

When a team turns the ball over that many times they normally lose. They deserve to lose. Oh sure, the Pack got one back on a tipped pass. But five turnovers? The Pack should have had this one going away. Instead, the Pack gave it away.

Penalties and bad field position, along with conservative play calling in the second half as a result of both of those situations, dried up a potent offense and kept Da Bearz in the game long enough for them to throw a game-winning TD pass with just over 2 minutes to go.

A sickening loss. As they usually are against Da Bearz.

Take the Pack - but you already knew that

With about 90 minutes to kickoff, it will feel more like the fried tundra in Green Bay rather than the frozen tundra. It's about 85F degrees there today...on the 7th of October. Can you say "global warming?" Anyway, unless the Packers players succumb to heat exhaustion and extreme cramping, or unless they give away the ball, they should more than beat the 3-point spread on this game.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers - Da Bearz: 2 days to go and tix prices soar

Needless to say (so why am I then saying it?), this is Packers-Da Bearz week in Packerland. The eternal rivalry. Created at the dawn of time. When God said, "Let it be"...no, wait, that was The Beatles...when God said, "And there shall be enmity between the football teams of Green Bay and Chicago, and between their devotees." And so it was, is, and shall be. Amen.

Interestingly, it really doesn't matter what the records are in any given season between these two teams. Fans still get up for it. You only have to hear about what tickets are going for to illustrate that point. According to some reports, the cheapest is $175 for end zone seats, with most seeming to average in the $300-$500 range. A ticket near the 50-yard line will likely be in the $800 range. But if you really want to do it right, $17,550 will get you a suite for 20 people through one of the ticket brokers.

Currently, the Pack is favored by 3. Given the comparative records and the state of the two teams, one would think it would be bigger than that. And maybe it will by game time. Or maybe not. After all, things sometimes are not what they seem when these teams play...regardless.

But unless the Pack gets sloppy with the ball (the way they were and got away with against the ViQueens last week, let's be honest) and turn it over, or unless they let Devin Hester loose on returns, the Pack should win this one going away.

"And God looked upon the game result and saw that it was good. So ended the fifth week."

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.

Football folks reflect upon Favre

As much as we Packer fans extol the accomplishments of ol' #4, it is sometimes of interest to see what others have to say. In today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, you can read what Mike Holmgren, Bart Starr, and Joe Montana had to say. Also, a recap of Dan Marino's video message to Brett after he broke the record.

Elsewhere, there were the comments on ESPN before the game. Mike Ditka had this to say: "One of the best things that happened to me, I got fired in 1992 and that's when he (Favre) started. But I'll give him the ultimate compliment, as far as I'm concerned. To me, that's a guy I would have loved to have played with. I would have loved to be in the huddle with that guy." You know, I think Brett probably would have enjoyed that, too. And Emmitt Smith added, ""What I love about Brett Favre, and I have never seen it in my years playing football and watching the game, I have never seen a quarterback enjoy his position, enjoy the game, as much as Brett Favre. I'll tell you. There are only two quarterbacks in the league who I would love to have played with, outside of my own Troy Aikman. Brett Favre is one. Dan Marino is the other." Coming from Mr. Smith, that's high praise indeed.

But when all the accolades are said and done, though, it's hard to beat Joe Montana's kudos to Brett: "Congratulations you old fart!". Simple. Direct. Kinda says it all.

Packers win 23-16!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3rd quarter: Pack 13 - Vikes 9

At the end of the third quarter, the Pack remained ahead of the 'Queens by the score of 13-9.

Items of note: a fake punt, in which punter Jon Ryan shook off nearly 8 players to pick up a first down at about midfield; another huge run up the middle by the Vikes, this time by Chester Taylor; a great punt downed at the 5 by the Pack, and then a 3-and-out by the defense, giving the Pack great field position at the 'Queens 35 to begin the 4th quarter.

2nd quarter: Pack 10 - Vikes 6

Brett Favre broke another record in the second quarter of today's game, surpassing Dan Marino's pass attempts record of 8,000+++++++++++.

But the important thing is that the Pack still leads at half, 10-6, on a 28-yard field goal by Mason Crosby with 5 seconds left in the half.

It looked as if the Pack would go up 14-0 early in the second quarter as they were driving effectively down the field. Then on a pass play to Donald Lee down to the 'Queens 7-yard line, Lee had the ball ripped from his hands as he was being tackled. 'Queens recovered, and then had their own drive of sorts. Well, when your rookie running back rips off a 55-yarder right up the middle, that certainly aids the "drive." This occurred right after Packers' defensive lineman Corey Williams left with an injury (he returned later). On this same play, safety Nick Collins made the touchdown-saving tackle, only to also be injured. He walked to the sidelines, but was seen being taken by cart to the locker room. Looks as if the left knee was injured, although the extent of the injury is unknown at this time. The Pack then held, and ex-Packer Ryan Longwell hit a 44-yarder to make the score7-3.

After receiving the ball, the Pack went 3 and out. The 'Queens then had a long pass play over Charles Woodson down inside the Packers 20-yard line. The Packers' "D" then held again, leading to another Longwell field goal, making it 7-6 Packers.

The Pack then had a great 2-minute offense, driving down to the 'Queens 5-yard, before Brett was sacked with 5 seconds remaining, requiring them to settle for a field goal.

Assuming the Packers defense continues its bend-don't-break approach, and doesn't lot Peterson run uncontrolled (he already has rushed for more than 100 yards), and assuming the Packers don't have turnovers and hurt themselves, it is clear the Packers offense -- at least, surprise, the passing game -- should win the day.

The 'Queens defense isn't bad; in fact its run defense is pretty darn good. But when your defense scores as many touchdowns as does your offense (3 for each so far this season), you have to realize that it's an uphill battle.

Brett breaks the record in 1st quarter - Pack 7, Vikes 0

With about 5 minutes to go in the first quarter, Brett Favre threw a 15-yard slant pass to Greg Jennings for his 421st career TD pass. The king is dead. Long live the king! Brett surpassed Dan Marino's record of 420 TD pass with a check-down call at the line of scrimmage, hitting Jennings in full stride on a slant pass to about the 5-yard line with Jennings taking it in untouched. Play was stopped with an acknowledgment by the 'Queens public address announcer and a video congrats by Dan Marino.

Other highlights from the quarter include a fumble recovery by Johnny Jolly on a pass play that helped set up this record-breaking TD pass, as did a nice upfield reception by Donald Lee.

Aaron Kampman is also getting a great pass rush on the 'Queens QB, including one sack. A couple disconcerting notes relate to the Packers D-backs: Charles Woodson has been called twice for illegal contact, one of which was declined because a first down was reached anyway and the second negated an interception by Woodson himself which he had returned for a 58-yard TD; the second area of concern is that the 'Queens seem to be trying to exploit second-year cornerback Jarrett Bush.

Oh, and there is still no running game for the Pack.

Pack vs. 'Queens: a should-be win

It's nice that after a 3-0 start, even the talking heads on ESPN NFL Countdown are talking about the Packers as possible Super Bowl contenders. Some say yes, some say no, especially without a running game. The talk is premature about a Super Bowl. Although, given the pre-season projections about this team, it's still nice to think about.

But taking a cue from the unbeaten University of Wisconsin football team (Go Badgers!) might be helpful here. Their working slogan is "1-0". That's it. Just go 1-0 each week and the rest will take care of itself.

In this case, the Packers need to forget their 3-0 start and just go 1-0 against the ViQueens today at the Hump Dome.

Let's look at this game briefly. The Packers -- for the first time this season -- are actually favored in a game, by 2 points today. The Pack has consecutively beaten three playoff teams for their 3-0 start, only -- if memory serves -- the fourth time in league history that this has been done. The 'Queens, on the other hand, opened by beating the downtrodden and Vick-less Atlanta Falcons and then lost to the Lions and KC. The Pack has one of the greatest, if not the greatest, quarterbacks of all time looking like he's 10 years younger, firing on all cylinders, and ready to set the all-time record for TD passes. The 'Queens...don't have a QB. They do, however, have a legitimate running back threat in rookie Adrian Peterson. The Packers have running back by committee, a committee with one less member as it appears rookie Brandon Jackson might be out this week -- it's always someone, right? Vernand Morency might see his first action of the season today, but likely it will be a combination of DeShawn Wynn and Ryan Grant that will carry the running load. Wait. Can we actually describe probably fewer than 20 carries in the game as a "load"? Probably not. But you know what I mean. As for defenses, the edge has to go to the Pack. So, with all aspects of the game in the Packers favor with the exception of the running game, it should be a Packers win.

While feeling very good about the odds of the Packers winning this game, there are probably more than a few Packers fans, though, who still think of the Hump Dome as a house of horrors. And it certainly has been historically. Although, the Pack has won 3 out of the last 4 games there, this is a place and rivalry where things do not always go as they should. Looking at recent history, perhaps Brett has exorcised his demons in this place.

Look for Brett to break the TD record today. And, as a sentimental favorite, I know I'm not the only one hoping that record-breaking pass goes to Donald Driver. And, by the way, if you want to read a really great article about the top four TD pass receivers for Brett over his career, check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel which has interviews with (in chronological order) Sterling Sharpe, Robert Brooks, Antonio Freeman, and Donald Driver. Brett has thrown TD passes to 42 different receivers in his career, but these four stand atop the list for many reasons, not only for their number of catches. Some very good insights by these receivers into their own play as well as the play and development of ol' #4 himself.

Some pundits are saying this game sets itself up as a classic trap game for the Pack, not only because of the location, but because of the Pack looking ahead to Da Bearz game next week. I don't think this will happen. This young team is really believing in itself. The defense and special teams are performing well. The receiving corps is healthy and at full speed -- which should scare the bejeezus out of any secondary -- and gives Brett so many options that it should be a big day for him. Some are saying that he might actually break Marino's TD pass record (needing 1) and George Blanda's interception records (needing 2) in the same game. Maybe. So what? The Pack still wins. Even all 5 pundits on ESPN's NFL Countdown just predicted the same. Not that I'd always take that to the bank, but today, yes.

It will be a great day for Brett personally. And a great day for the Pack as a team. 4-0. Let's enjoy it, Packer fans! It's a great start to the first quarter of the season. 4-0. Sweet.

Favre's Accomplishments Defy Descriptions (but it's fun to try!)

I suppose I could post a thousand links these days about what people are saying about Favre. Everyone wants to weigh in. I still have to say I am a little disappointed in the coverage not just on the touchdown pass record, but the records already accomplished and those about to fall. I think some people think Favre has played a lot longer than the other quarterbacks and that is why he will get these records. Actually, after 16 seasons plus, it is amazing how similar are Favre's stats and Marino's, for instance. Favre had the exact same number of starts as Marino when he matched the record last weekend - the exact same number of starts! That is amazing! Though he will likely get the interception record, he is only averaging about 1.2 more interceptions per season than Marino (this is supposed to be a major "separating" statistic between Favre and Marino - check out this interception analysis from the GBPress Gazette: link). Another key stat people point to when they compare Favre and Marino is total yardage. Favre is 3000 yards behind Marino with the exact same number of starts. This works out to an average of about 12.5 yards per game difference.

Anyway, here is comparison of Favre and Marino. Be sure to read the comments added by the readers link. Here is another link with some great "remember when Favre" moments by coaches and players. And finally, here is a link about where Favre fits in the list of greats of all time. Personally, I think a great deal of this analysis is flawed because Favre is not done yet.

Finally, did you know that if Favre starts all the rest of the games this season, and all of the games next season, he will still be one short of Jim Marshall's all time consecutive start record?

Let's enjoy every Favre moment!

Momentary cross-over follow up

It wouldn't be right, in one of the few -- if not only -- instances where this blog has departed from football discussions, to not then at least mention the results of the online vote regarding what to do with the infamous home run ball by...that guy.

So, without further ado: the majority of online voters said the ball should be branded with an asterisk and given to the Baseball Hall of Fame. My preferred option -- blasting it into space -- came in third. Apparently, not as many people are as big a supporter of our space program as I am.

The people have spoken. Even if they're wrong. You can see the results for yourself here.

Now..back to football!

Let the Chargers tell you how good the Packers are

As Packer fans, we can always extol the greatness of our team, even when it might not be so great. So it's always interesting to hear what an opposing team has to say, especially one of the top teams in the league which just got beat by our very own Packers. Case in point: the San Diego Chargers.

In today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, there's an article which features comments by Chargers' coaches and players about their impressions of this current Packers team. As might be expected, a lot of the praise centers around Brett Favre, and rightly so. But there are also kudos for the O-line, receivers, and defense. The only mention of the running game, of course, is that there isn't one.

Still, no sour grapes by the Chargers. Only praise. Nice to read such words. And kudos to the Chargers for being so classy in defeat. That in itself is a refreshing change of pace in the sports world these days.

You can read the article here.

Packers - Chargers wrap up

OK. I think I'm calmed down now. It may not always be easy being a Packers fan. But it sure can't be beat. And right now, neither can the Packers. 3-0 has a nice ring to it, don't you think? Especially when some of those high-paid talking heads -- and you know who you are! -- expected the Pack to be 0-3 at this point of the season.

Seventy-six percent of the teams that start 3-0 go to the playoffs, according to a stat cited on-air by WTMJ620 radio sports guru, Bill Michaels. And all teams last year that started 3-0 went to the playoffs. Does this mean the Pack will? Of course not. But is it better than the alternative? A-duh! The ViQueens lost today to make them 1-2. The Lions got blown out by the Eagles, to put them at 2-1. And after Da Bearz lose to the Cowboys tonight in Chicago to fall into a tie with the 'Queens at 1-2, the Packers will stand alone atop the division at 3-0. (OK, they stand at the top of the division regardless, but you know what I mean.) They'll take that record and a 7-game winning streak (going back to last season) into the Humpty Dump to take on a team that rightly deserves to share the basement with Da Bearz.

But enough about records and next week. What happened in the 4th quarter of the game? Here are a few highlights.

With the Bolts leading 21-14, and with about 12 minutes to go in the game and the Chargers at about their own 20, KGB sacked QB Phil Rivers causing a fumble. It looked as if KGB tried to pick up the ball and couldn't. Chargers recovered, setting up a punt.

The Pack started to move the ball and on 3rd and 2, Brett threw a pass to TE Donald Lee that would have resulted in a first down...if he hadn't pushed off. Which, if memory serves, is something he got called on last week as well. Most if not all receivers push off. So obviously Mr. Lee must perfect his technique so as not to be so obvious...not that I'm advocating that sort of thing, of course. Anyway...that made it 3rd and 12 from the Chargers 29. Brett went right back to Lee with an 18-yard strike for a first down at the 11. There was another pass that appeared to be for a TD, only to have the refs call the receiver down at about the 1-yard line. Brett wanted to challenge, but McCarthy apparently decided to not jeopardize his remaining timeouts on a failed challenge. Depending upon the replay view, it was a TD...or it wasn't. The Pack decided that they should be able to score anyway, so with the ball at the 1...RG Junius Coston promptly proceeded to have a false start penalty that moved the ball back to 6. After then overthrowing his outlet receiver, and then being sacked, Brett threw a bullet to WR James Jones at the goal line and...he was called down at about the 1-foot line. So, 4th down with about a foot to go. What do the Packers do? Not run. No-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o. Why would we do that? In fact, let's not even bother to put any running backs in to even feign a run...let's just clear the backfield and make it even more obvious we'll be passing. And, surprise, surprise...the pass was tipped at the line and the Pack was turned away with less than 6 minutes remaining.

At this point, it did not look good. And if the Pack hadn't gone on to win, there would have been a lot of second-guessing about that series of plays. Rightly, there can still be some second-guessing. (Just a stat to ponder: with about 2:30 to go in the game the Packers had 6 yards rushing in the entire second half!)

So the ball went over to the Bolts who proceeded to get out of the near-end zone on a 3rd down pass to Antonio Gates. However, the Pack was able to hold and got the ball back via a punt at their own 44. On second down and with a little over 2 minutes to go, Brett hit Greg Jennings on a quick slant that Jennings proceeded to catch in full stride and turn into a 57-yard TD catch and run. Jennings may not be the fastest guy on the planet, but it sure seems as if he can pull away from defenders trying to catch him. It's nice to have him back in the playing line up, that's for sure. This was the TD pass that also tied Brett with Dan Marino for most all-time TD passes at 420. This put the Packers ahead 24-21.

The Packers stiffened on defense and on third down from their own 30 with a little over a minute to go, Rivers' pass was intercepted by Packers LB Nick Barnett, who returned it to the 2. Amazingly, the Packers actually scored a 1-yard rushing touchdown on a hand off to Brandon Jackson. Pack 31 - Chargers 21.

To the Chargers credit, they came down the field and took a field goal on third down with about 20 seconds to go to put them within a TD of tying...assuming they could recover an onside kick...which an on-screen stat showed they hadn't done in 10 years. The kick was high, but too far, right into the waiting and secure hands of Donald Driver. Game over. Pack wins 31-24.

Make no mistake: there is still a lot to work on. Especially that, what do they call it? Oh yeah, running game. But the defense shut down a powerful offense enough to allow the Pack to score the points it needed to make to win. And contrary to the prior 2 games where we were assisted with special teams turnovers, etc., this game was no fluke as some might have thought about the earlier ones.

This young team has confidence. That's what's needed going into the Humpty Dump. The Pack have won the last 3 out of 4 there. Let's make it 4 out of 5.

Enjoy, Packers fans. It's going to be a fun ride this year.

Oh, and one more record before closing this post: Donald Driver has now caught more TD passes at Lambeau Field than any other Packers receiver. Ever. Congrats Donald. Congrats Brett. It sure is fun watching you guys.

Pack wins! Brett ties Marino!

What a game!!! The Packers win over the Chargers 31-24. Brett tied Dan Marino's all-time touchdown pass record of 420, by throwing 3 TD passes, the final one coming on a 57-yarder, of the catch and run variety, on a quick slant to Greg Jennings to put the Pack ahead for good. He was 28 of 45 for 369 yards.

There will be more posted later about this final quarter and game. For now, revel in the fact that the Pack is 3-0. How sweet it is!

Right now, I need to get my blood pressure back to normal and take a breather. Wow!