It's finally here, Packers fans: the release of the 2009 Packers schedule.
Here are the details (all times Central Time):
1 Sun. Sep. 13 vs. Bears 7:20 PM - NBC
2 Sun. Sep. 20 vs. Bengals 12:00 PM - CBS (Gold Package)
3 Sun. Sep. 27 at Rams 12:00 PM - Fox
4 Mon. Oct. 05 at Vikings 7:30 PM - ESPN
5 Sun. Oct. 11 BYE
6 Sun. Oct. 18 vs. Lions 12:00 PM - Fox
7 Sun. Oct. 25 at Browns 12:00 PM - Fox
8 Sun. Nov. 01 vs. Vikings 12:00 PM - Fox
9 Sun. Nov. 08 at Buccaneers 12:00 PM - Fox
10 Sun. Nov. 15 vs. Cowboys 3:15 PM - Fox (Gold Package)
11 Sun. Nov. 22 vs. 49ers 12:00 PM - Fox
12 Thu. Nov. 26 at Lions 11:30 AM - Fox
13 Mon. Dec. 07 vs. Ravens 7:30 PM - ESPN
14 Sun. Dec. 13 at Bears 12:00 PM - Fox
15 Sun. Dec. 20 at Steelers 12:00 PM - Fox
16 Sun. Dec. 27 vs. Seahawks 12:00 PM - Fox
17 Sun. Jan. 03 at Cardinals 2:15 PM - Fox
The Packers, despite the 6-10 record of last year, are obviously still a major TV draw nationally. The Pack helps open the first weekend of the season with a Sunday night game at Lambeau vs. Da Bearz. Then there are two Monday night games, Oct. 5 at the ViQueens, and Dec. 7 vs. the Ravens at Lambeau. And sandwiched inbetween -- maybe turkey sandwich would be the appropriate description -- is the Thanksgiving Day game against the Lions in Detroit.
In looking at the schedule, we can make a few initial observations. (And if you'd care to voice your opinion, feel free to do so any time through the end of April in our poll in the column to the right.)
The Packers will have played all their divisional games by the end of Week 14, and will be done with both games against the ViQueens by Week 8. Just as Da Bearz are the first divisional opponent the Pack faces to kick off the season on opening weekend, they are also the last divisional opponent in week 14.
The scheduling gods gave the Packers no 3-game stretches either home or away; there are two sets of two games back to back at home and two sets of games back to back on the road, with the rest alternating home and away. Not bad. Also not bad is the fact that the hot weather Arizona Cardinals are scheduled for the last away game of the season, Jan. 3. Road trip, anyone???
The short week because of the Thanksgiving Day game begins with the 49ers at Lambeau on Nov. 22 and then the Lions on the 26th. That seems to be as good as an arrangement and team pairings as could be hoped for. Add into that the fact that then the Packers have the long stretch afterward to prepare for a Monday night home again vs. the Ravens on Dec. 7. Again, not bad. If it couldn't be the Cowboys the Ravens aren't a bad second choice for that slot, all things considered.
The bye week we would have preferred to come a bit later: week 5 hits a bit early. But it does come after the first Monday night game vs. the 'Queens. So with a quarter of the season completed, including two divisional games, that may be a good point to evaluate and tweak things.
Anyway...more to follow in terms of analysis, etc. as things sink in and we get a chance to look at things a bit more closely.
A word about the "Gold Package" reference
For those not familiar with the "Gold Package" reference in the schedule, that's a Packers-only designation: it refers to former Milwaukee season ticket holders. Once upon a time, the Pack used to play some of their games at the old County Stadium in Milwaukee. When the Brewers baseball team decided to build their new ballpark (a great one, btw!), the Packers decided to take the opportunity to cut those ties and move all games back to Green Bay. The only problem, of course, was that you had this extremely loyal and dedicated fan base who had purchased season tickets in Milwaukee for years and years. The Packers wisely decided they didn't want to tick off those fans. So, they came up with a solution -- of sorts -- called, appropriately, the Green and Gold Packages.
The Green Package was for those fans who already had season tix in Green Bay. They would not lose any of the games they would have already gotten under the old system; in fact, they probably picked up a game on their season tickets. The Gold Package was for those fans who held Milwaukee season tickets. Rather than have them come away empty-handed and disgruntled, the Pack kept them in the fold -- but it's not like they would go anywhere else anyway, right? -- by giving them two regular games at Lambeau each season, along with a preseason game. Not bad. And in looking at the schedule this season, well...getting Cleveland as the preseason game (and the first game at that) and Cincinnati as one of the two regular season games isn't the greatest. On the other hand, a bit of that is made up for with the second regular season Gold Package game: the Cowboys as the main afternoon game on Sunday, Nov. 15. I think a lot of Gold Package ticket holders will forgive those other two scheduling/ticketing choices just for the chance to see home state boy, Dallas QB Tony Romo, lose in the friendly confines of Lambeau Field. Sorry, Tony. You may be home town...but the Packers are our home team.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
Packers season schedule due out Tuesday
Finally! Finally, the Packers schedule for the 2009 season will be released. Just tune in to the NFL Network at 6 p.m. (CT) Tuesday, April 14. Oh, oh...the NFL Network...well...maybe you can stream it over the 'net. Barring those options, you can also check back here at Packer Fans United, or here, or here. You can get the full NFL schedule at nfl.com.
Of course, the opponents at home and on the road have been known for quite a while now. Home opponents include divisional foes Chicago, Detroit and Minnesota, as well as San Francisco, Seattle, Dallas, Baltimore and Cincinnati. On the road, the Packers once again play our three divisional opponents (Chicago, Detroit and Minnesota) plus Arizona, St. Louis, Tampa Bay, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. It's just all a matter of who the Pack plays when.
We do have two known dates, though: the Pack opens the season against Da Bearz at Lambeau and play the Lions on Thanksgiving in Detroit. A wish list might have the Pack playing the Cowboys the game after Thanksgiving...you know, get that extra rest and practice time in. And Arizona and Tampa Bay later in the season would be a plus, too. Instead, if NFL scheduling goes according to form, the Packers will have to go the desert to play the Cardinals in Week #2 and to the humidity of Florida in Week #3, while playing Cleveland and Pittsburgh the last games of the season. Well, perhaps the NFL scheduling gods will strive for a bit of balance. We'll know Tuesday how it all shakes out.
It's starting to smell a bit more like football season is just around the corner: the schedule coming out in a few days...the draft only about two weeks away...ahhh...life is good, Packer fans!
Of course, the opponents at home and on the road have been known for quite a while now. Home opponents include divisional foes Chicago, Detroit and Minnesota, as well as San Francisco, Seattle, Dallas, Baltimore and Cincinnati. On the road, the Packers once again play our three divisional opponents (Chicago, Detroit and Minnesota) plus Arizona, St. Louis, Tampa Bay, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. It's just all a matter of who the Pack plays when.
We do have two known dates, though: the Pack opens the season against Da Bearz at Lambeau and play the Lions on Thanksgiving in Detroit. A wish list might have the Pack playing the Cowboys the game after Thanksgiving...you know, get that extra rest and practice time in. And Arizona and Tampa Bay later in the season would be a plus, too. Instead, if NFL scheduling goes according to form, the Packers will have to go the desert to play the Cardinals in Week #2 and to the humidity of Florida in Week #3, while playing Cleveland and Pittsburgh the last games of the season. Well, perhaps the NFL scheduling gods will strive for a bit of balance. We'll know Tuesday how it all shakes out.
It's starting to smell a bit more like football season is just around the corner: the schedule coming out in a few days...the draft only about two weeks away...ahhh...life is good, Packer fans!
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Draft musings
OK, Packer fans, it's time to start thinking about who the Pack will pick at #9 in the upcoming NFL Draft. Or, if they actually stick with that pick, given GM Ted Thompson's penchant for trading down to grab more players in exchange.
It's no surprise to any Packer fan that most folks -- including this folk -- see the defensive line as the number one area of need. Now, that whole "need" thing runs a bit contrary to Thompson's usual approach to taking the best available athlete. But this year might indeed be different, especially given the move to the new 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. The Pack's defensive line, due to injury and lack of depth, was mediocre at best last season. That can't happen again. The Pack will need stout players upfront and active players on the edges and across the middle.
But the Pack also has a need for a few folks on the offensive side of the ball, particularly on the line. As noted here and elsewhere before, it is questionable whether longtime veteran Mark Tauscher will be back as part of the team, given that he won't be totally rehabbed from his knee injury until several weeks into the season. The Packers have a number of good, young, versatile players across the line right now. But picking up at least one good tackle would be a plus.
Wide receivers? We should be covered. And the Packers just yesterday agreed to terms with tight end Tory Humphrey, who has always enamored the Pack with his potential but who can never seem to stay healthy. And what about running back? Hopefully, Ryan Grant won't take half the season to find his full stride. Head coach Mike McCarthy likes Brandon Jackson and would like to see more of what he can do, too. But if there is a good back available, the Packers could sure use one in the mix.
So, what are all the mock drafts saying about the Packers' #9?
The consensus at this point seems to OLB Everette Brown out of Florida State. Brown was a defensive end for the Seminoles and was extremely productive. Pro scouts, however, seem to be projecting him, because of his size, as a better option at OLB. And he may have to work against the bad experience several teams -- including the Packers -- have had with other highly touted defensive ends coming out of Florida State; does the name Jamal Reynolds ring a bell? (Shudder!)
But there are other names being tossed about, including:
That should be enough to set your head spinning. There are only a zillion or two mock draft sites you can check out which will give you more names, scouting reports, etc. No need to reinvent the wheel here.
As with any draft, much depends on what happens in front of you. B.J. Raji and Brian Orakpo would be excellent picks, but the likelihood of them lasting until #9 is questionable. The trade between Denver and Chicago last week also will impact things a bit. And then there is the distinct possibility that the Lions with the #1 overall pick, and even with new management, may still somehow throw a monkey wrench into things.
Of course, what happens in a draft sometimes depends on things that happen behind you, too. Would a team that picks a few slots behind the Pack and which sees a player they really want -- such as a QB -- wheel and deal with the Packers to move up? If Thompson thought he could still get the player he's targeting and nab an extra pick later, that would be a deal you just know Thompson would definitely take a look at if the past is any precursor.
So, stay tuned as things get closer to draft weekend, April 25-26. And, by the way, if you're looking to join in some fun and excitement, be sure to head to Lambeau Field for the Draft Day party.
It's no surprise to any Packer fan that most folks -- including this folk -- see the defensive line as the number one area of need. Now, that whole "need" thing runs a bit contrary to Thompson's usual approach to taking the best available athlete. But this year might indeed be different, especially given the move to the new 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. The Pack's defensive line, due to injury and lack of depth, was mediocre at best last season. That can't happen again. The Pack will need stout players upfront and active players on the edges and across the middle.
But the Pack also has a need for a few folks on the offensive side of the ball, particularly on the line. As noted here and elsewhere before, it is questionable whether longtime veteran Mark Tauscher will be back as part of the team, given that he won't be totally rehabbed from his knee injury until several weeks into the season. The Packers have a number of good, young, versatile players across the line right now. But picking up at least one good tackle would be a plus.
Wide receivers? We should be covered. And the Packers just yesterday agreed to terms with tight end Tory Humphrey, who has always enamored the Pack with his potential but who can never seem to stay healthy. And what about running back? Hopefully, Ryan Grant won't take half the season to find his full stride. Head coach Mike McCarthy likes Brandon Jackson and would like to see more of what he can do, too. But if there is a good back available, the Packers could sure use one in the mix.
So, what are all the mock drafts saying about the Packers' #9?
The consensus at this point seems to OLB Everette Brown out of Florida State. Brown was a defensive end for the Seminoles and was extremely productive. Pro scouts, however, seem to be projecting him, because of his size, as a better option at OLB. And he may have to work against the bad experience several teams -- including the Packers -- have had with other highly touted defensive ends coming out of Florida State; does the name Jamal Reynolds ring a bell? (Shudder!)
But there are other names being tossed about, including:
- Malcolm Jenkins, DB, Ohio State
- Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State
- B.J. Raji, NT, Boston College
- Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
- Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
- Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
- Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
That should be enough to set your head spinning. There are only a zillion or two mock draft sites you can check out which will give you more names, scouting reports, etc. No need to reinvent the wheel here.
As with any draft, much depends on what happens in front of you. B.J. Raji and Brian Orakpo would be excellent picks, but the likelihood of them lasting until #9 is questionable. The trade between Denver and Chicago last week also will impact things a bit. And then there is the distinct possibility that the Lions with the #1 overall pick, and even with new management, may still somehow throw a monkey wrench into things.
Of course, what happens in a draft sometimes depends on things that happen behind you, too. Would a team that picks a few slots behind the Pack and which sees a player they really want -- such as a QB -- wheel and deal with the Packers to move up? If Thompson thought he could still get the player he's targeting and nab an extra pick later, that would be a deal you just know Thompson would definitely take a look at if the past is any precursor.
So, stay tuned as things get closer to draft weekend, April 25-26. And, by the way, if you're looking to join in some fun and excitement, be sure to head to Lambeau Field for the Draft Day party.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Da Bearz nab Cutler
John Clayton of ESPN is reporting this afternoon that Da Bearz have acquired disgruntled Denver QB, Jay Cutler, in a trade. According to the report, "To acquire Cutler, the Bears had to give up quarterback Kyle Orton and first-round picks in 2009 and 2010, along with a third-round pick in 2009. To complete the trade, the Broncos had to give back a fifth-round pick in 2009."
This certainly gives Da Bearz their best option at quarterback since...wait...have Da Bearz ever had a good QB???
Now, they might. Heck of an arm and on-field presence even if this latest episode seems to make Cutler appear a bit less than stable, shall we say, from a maturity standpoint.
Things in the NFC North just got a lot more interesting. Dang!
Anyway, you can read the ESPN report here.
Later Addendum
On Sports Center, both ESPN football analysts, Trent Dilfer and Mark Schlereth, felt that Denver got the better end of the deal. They indicated that Da Bearz lost both starting offensive tackles and that the wide receivers are...who? "The strongest arm in the world isn't going to help you when you're laying on your back," Schlereth said. Both also liked Orton, admitting that he wasn't the prettiest looking QB but really showed toughness on the field and found ways to make things happen.
Maybe there's hope Da Bearz followed their usual modus operandi and screwed things up...again.
Other late breaking news is that Da Bearz also have agreed to terms to acquire future Hall of Fame offensive tackle Orlando Pace. Getting a bit long in the tooth. But at least it helps answer one of those question marks on the O-line...assuming Pace stays healthy of course.
OK...enough talk about Da Bearz. Just will make beating them in that home opener at Lambeau all the more sweet.
This certainly gives Da Bearz their best option at quarterback since...wait...have Da Bearz ever had a good QB???
Now, they might. Heck of an arm and on-field presence even if this latest episode seems to make Cutler appear a bit less than stable, shall we say, from a maturity standpoint.
Things in the NFC North just got a lot more interesting. Dang!
Anyway, you can read the ESPN report here.
Later Addendum
On Sports Center, both ESPN football analysts, Trent Dilfer and Mark Schlereth, felt that Denver got the better end of the deal. They indicated that Da Bearz lost both starting offensive tackles and that the wide receivers are...who? "The strongest arm in the world isn't going to help you when you're laying on your back," Schlereth said. Both also liked Orton, admitting that he wasn't the prettiest looking QB but really showed toughness on the field and found ways to make things happen.
Maybe there's hope Da Bearz followed their usual modus operandi and screwed things up...again.
Other late breaking news is that Da Bearz also have agreed to terms to acquire future Hall of Fame offensive tackle Orlando Pace. Getting a bit long in the tooth. But at least it helps answer one of those question marks on the O-line...assuming Pace stays healthy of course.
OK...enough talk about Da Bearz. Just will make beating them in that home opener at Lambeau all the more sweet.
Does a tweet a twit make?
The latest communication tech rage, as any good geek knows, is Twitter (note to reader: this blogster has assiduously avoided being that geeked out...so far). We have had instances of professional athletes sending "tweets" from their cell phones during half times of basketball games, during innings of spring training baseball games, etc. So it should come as no surprise that Packer linebacker Nick Barnett shot off a tweet during his down time regarding his opinion of the Packers defensive line status: "Ok question does anyone else think we need more d line man???".
According to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, when asked why he felt the Pack needed such help, Barnett wrote: "I think we need one more solid d-line man I think we have some pretty good options for olb but knowing ted I think he wants to sure it up." Of course, the "ted" he is referring to is Packers' GM Ted Thompson. And you'll have to pardon Barnett's typo: am sure he met "shore" it up, not "sure" it up (hey, typos happen...even here once in a while, sad to say).
Barnett's comments should come as no surprise. Firstly, because he is the type of person to generally say what's on his mind. And secondly, because any Packer fan already knows this same situation quite well. Yes, the Packers need help on the D-line. Given the lack of offseason free agent acquisitions, you have to believe Thompson is really going to have to add a few players in the upcoming draft, as well as later training camp cast-offs. As much of a concern as it seems to be for Packer fans -- and, apparently, some Packer players -- Thompson doesn't seem in any hurry to fill the holes.
But for more on Barnett and his tweets, check out the aforementioned Journal-Sentinel article here.
According to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, when asked why he felt the Pack needed such help, Barnett wrote: "I think we need one more solid d-line man I think we have some pretty good options for olb but knowing ted I think he wants to sure it up." Of course, the "ted" he is referring to is Packers' GM Ted Thompson. And you'll have to pardon Barnett's typo: am sure he met "shore" it up, not "sure" it up (hey, typos happen...even here once in a while, sad to say).
Barnett's comments should come as no surprise. Firstly, because he is the type of person to generally say what's on his mind. And secondly, because any Packer fan already knows this same situation quite well. Yes, the Packers need help on the D-line. Given the lack of offseason free agent acquisitions, you have to believe Thompson is really going to have to add a few players in the upcoming draft, as well as later training camp cast-offs. As much of a concern as it seems to be for Packer fans -- and, apparently, some Packer players -- Thompson doesn't seem in any hurry to fill the holes.
But for more on Barnett and his tweets, check out the aforementioned Journal-Sentinel article here.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Packers announce preseason opponents
While we're still waiting to see what the 2009 regular season holds in the way of scheduling -- other than what we already know about opening weekend (Da Bearz at Lambeau) and Turkey Day (at Detroit) -- we now at least can start to sniff the the new football season.
While specific dates and times are yet to be determined, as well as TV coverage outside of the state, you'll be seeing the Pack play their first two games at home and then wind up with two on the road.
Aug. 13-17: Cleveland Browns (Gold pkg.)
Midwest Shrine Game
TV: state
Aug. 20-24: Buffalo Bills
Bishop's Charities Game
TV: state
Aug. 27-31: at Arizona Cardinals
TV: state
Sept. 3-4: at Tennessee Titans
TV: state
Note for the dim: the date ranges indicated above do not mean the games actually last, e.g., from Aug. 13-17, just that the game will take place sometime during that time frame; that's the "to be determined" part of things at this point. Just so we're clear.
You can learn more here.
While specific dates and times are yet to be determined, as well as TV coverage outside of the state, you'll be seeing the Pack play their first two games at home and then wind up with two on the road.
Aug. 13-17: Cleveland Browns (Gold pkg.)
Midwest Shrine Game
TV: state
Aug. 20-24: Buffalo Bills
Bishop's Charities Game
TV: state
Aug. 27-31: at Arizona Cardinals
TV: state
Sept. 3-4: at Tennessee Titans
TV: state
Note for the dim: the date ranges indicated above do not mean the games actually last, e.g., from Aug. 13-17, just that the game will take place sometime during that time frame; that's the "to be determined" part of things at this point. Just so we're clear.
You can learn more here.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Packers - gasp - sign free agent
Well this one sure slid in under the radar. The Packers have had their first unrestricted free agent signing of the offseason. And it was for a lineman! But, before you get your hopes up, no, it wasn't for a defensive lineman. Other side of the ball.
The Pack signed 26-year-old guard/center Duke Preston, who was formerly with the Buffalo Bills, to a two-year deal. Preston is an impressive physical specimen at 6'5" and 326 lbs. According to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "A fourth-round draft choice from the University of Illinois in 2005, Preston has appeared in 59 games with 20 starts, all with the Buffalo Bills. In addition to playing guard and center, he has played some right tackle." In other words, he's just the kind of young, athletic, big body type the Pack has been moving toward on the O-line. Still, according to the report, the Packers view Preston as a bit of a project with the potential for a big up-side. Given the questions surrounding the availability of long-time veteran right tackle and fan fave, Mark Tauscher, adding someone such as Preston provides the Pack with a bit of starting insurance upfront. (In fact, because of the expected rehab time for Tauscher's injury from late last season, the Pack will be well into the first weeks of the 2009 season by the time he might be available...which then may force the Packers to go another direction. They'd like to re-sign him, but time and need may force their hand. And that would be a sad way for a home-grown Wisconsin boy like Tauscher to end his career with the Packers.)
You can read more about the Preston signing here.
St. Vince video
Some of you may have already seen this video produced by NFL Films about the now iconic figure of "St. Vince." I just happened to stumble upon it so thought I'd share it with those who have yet to see it, or who want to see it again. It's a nice piece about a genuinely nice guy, as those of you who may have met him at Lambeau Field can attest.
Check it out here.
The Pack signed 26-year-old guard/center Duke Preston, who was formerly with the Buffalo Bills, to a two-year deal. Preston is an impressive physical specimen at 6'5" and 326 lbs. According to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "A fourth-round draft choice from the University of Illinois in 2005, Preston has appeared in 59 games with 20 starts, all with the Buffalo Bills. In addition to playing guard and center, he has played some right tackle." In other words, he's just the kind of young, athletic, big body type the Pack has been moving toward on the O-line. Still, according to the report, the Packers view Preston as a bit of a project with the potential for a big up-side. Given the questions surrounding the availability of long-time veteran right tackle and fan fave, Mark Tauscher, adding someone such as Preston provides the Pack with a bit of starting insurance upfront. (In fact, because of the expected rehab time for Tauscher's injury from late last season, the Pack will be well into the first weeks of the 2009 season by the time he might be available...which then may force the Packers to go another direction. They'd like to re-sign him, but time and need may force their hand. And that would be a sad way for a home-grown Wisconsin boy like Tauscher to end his career with the Packers.)
You can read more about the Preston signing here.
St. Vince video
Some of you may have already seen this video produced by NFL Films about the now iconic figure of "St. Vince." I just happened to stumble upon it so thought I'd share it with those who have yet to see it, or who want to see it again. It's a nice piece about a genuinely nice guy, as those of you who may have met him at Lambeau Field can attest.
Check it out here.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Packers open season vs Da Bearz; also play on Thanksgiving
Despite the ho-hum season last year and the absence of Ol' #4, the Packers remain a huge national TV draw. That's why the NFL rewarded the Pack with an opening weekend Sunday night game at home against Da Bearz. The Pack will beat up on Da Bearz on Sunday evening, September 13, at 7:30 p.m. Central time, and you can bet Lambeau Field will be cranked up. The game will be carried by NBC. This will be the 178th meeting between the two teams; no teams have played each other more.
For the second time in three seasons, the Packers will be playing on Thanksgiving. The Pack will play the Lions at Detroit's Ford Field at 11:30 a.m. (CT) on Thursday, November 26. So make your turkey plans for later in the afternoon, folks. The game will be televised nationally by FOX. According to the Packers, this marks the 33rd Thanksgiving contest in franchise history. At one time, it seemed as if it was always the Packers and Lions on Thanksgiving. Can't you just hear the late, great Ray Scott announcing those games?
Anyway, this is the second straight year the Packers have opened the season with a nationally televised game. Go Pack Go!!!
Only the opening weekend and the Thanksgiving game schedules were announced by the league. The NFL will release the full season schedule in April. The other games announced were: Tennessee at Pittsburgh, Thursday night, Sept. 10; Buffalo at New England and San Diego at Oakland, Monday night, Sept. 14; Oakland at Dallas and New York Giants at Denver on Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving Day).
You can read more about the announced Packers' games here.
For the second time in three seasons, the Packers will be playing on Thanksgiving. The Pack will play the Lions at Detroit's Ford Field at 11:30 a.m. (CT) on Thursday, November 26. So make your turkey plans for later in the afternoon, folks. The game will be televised nationally by FOX. According to the Packers, this marks the 33rd Thanksgiving contest in franchise history. At one time, it seemed as if it was always the Packers and Lions on Thanksgiving. Can't you just hear the late, great Ray Scott announcing those games?
Anyway, this is the second straight year the Packers have opened the season with a nationally televised game. Go Pack Go!!!
Only the opening weekend and the Thanksgiving game schedules were announced by the league. The NFL will release the full season schedule in April. The other games announced were: Tennessee at Pittsburgh, Thursday night, Sept. 10; Buffalo at New England and San Diego at Oakland, Monday night, Sept. 14; Oakland at Dallas and New York Giants at Denver on Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving Day).
You can read more about the announced Packers' games here.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Let the voluntary offseason program begin!
I know. That headline doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. But it is factual, so at least it has that going for it.
Packers players in Green Bay for the voluntary portion of their offseason training. That includes weight lifting, conditioning, watching film...that sort of thing. Although head coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear that to him voluntary is pretty much the same as mandatory. He can't require players to attend the workouts. But he can certainly remember who was there and who wasn't as things progress toward the start of organized team activities (OTAs), mini-camps, etc. Especially if somebody doesn't show who is under contract but wants to negotiate a new deal.
That description would fit D-back Nick Collins. He has a year remaining on his existing contract. But apparently, taking a cue from last year's shenanigans by RB Ryan Grant, he has decided not to participate with his teammates in these voluntary activities as a way to show that he's a bit unhappy. Collins is back home in Florida. Granted, he and his wife are expecting the birth of a child. But that's likely not the reason he's not in Green Bay. According to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "...according to a source with knowledge of the situation...he and his agent are frustrated with the lack of attention Collins has received heading into the last year of his contract...". Imagine that: a professional athlete who is unhappy with a contract. Shocking.
While Collins had a breakout season last year -- seven interceptions, led the league with 295 interception return yards, NFC Pro Bowl starter -- the Pack seems to have higher priorities before re-doing his contract. Because of an escalator clause, his contract already will bump up from a little more than $500K to more than $3 million. Given that jump, it would seem the Packers aren't in any hurry to sweeten the pot longer term. Especially since they don't know how well he will fit with the new 3-4 defense.
On the other hand, D-back Tramon Williams is attending these voluntary workouts. And he doesn't have a contract. Yes, kids, it's a topsy-turvy world: you have a contract that gives you a $2.5 million raise and you don't show; you don't have a contract and you do. Hmmm...'tis a puzzlement!
Williams probably has an insurance agreement that would cover his existing salary, $460,000, if he were to get injured while he is without contract. However, if he doesn't have something worked out by the time OTAs start in May, Williams likely won't show because of the greater risk from injury; all he has to be concerned about now is injury from lifting weights, conditioning exercises and watching film with coaches.
Keep an eye on both of these situations as things move toward OTAs and mini-camp. In the meantime, you can read more here if you care to.
Montgomery and Hunter re-signed
Without much fanfare this week, the Packers re-signed two of their back up players: DE Michael Montgomery and LB Jason Hunter.
Montgomery was an unrestricted free agent and apparently had some interest from a few other clubs. But in the end, he stayed with the team he knew and who knew him. Given the dearth of defensive line players on the current Packer roster, keeping someone such as Montgomery, even as a back up, isn't a bad move.
Hunter would show occasional flashes, but as this article notes, "Asked to gain weight to play inside on passing downs last season, Hunter wasn't as maneuverable or as effective on special teams." However, given that the Packers sprung for a $1 million tender offer for him, it would seem they are counting on him to step up his play on a more consistent basis. In the new 3-4 scheme, linebackers are key. Having players whose strengths and weaknesses are known means a greater likelihood of putting them in situations to succeed. Let's hope that's the case with Hunter, even in a back up role and on special teams.
Packers players in Green Bay for the voluntary portion of their offseason training. That includes weight lifting, conditioning, watching film...that sort of thing. Although head coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear that to him voluntary is pretty much the same as mandatory. He can't require players to attend the workouts. But he can certainly remember who was there and who wasn't as things progress toward the start of organized team activities (OTAs), mini-camps, etc. Especially if somebody doesn't show who is under contract but wants to negotiate a new deal.
That description would fit D-back Nick Collins. He has a year remaining on his existing contract. But apparently, taking a cue from last year's shenanigans by RB Ryan Grant, he has decided not to participate with his teammates in these voluntary activities as a way to show that he's a bit unhappy. Collins is back home in Florida. Granted, he and his wife are expecting the birth of a child. But that's likely not the reason he's not in Green Bay. According to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "...according to a source with knowledge of the situation...he and his agent are frustrated with the lack of attention Collins has received heading into the last year of his contract...". Imagine that: a professional athlete who is unhappy with a contract. Shocking.
While Collins had a breakout season last year -- seven interceptions, led the league with 295 interception return yards, NFC Pro Bowl starter -- the Pack seems to have higher priorities before re-doing his contract. Because of an escalator clause, his contract already will bump up from a little more than $500K to more than $3 million. Given that jump, it would seem the Packers aren't in any hurry to sweeten the pot longer term. Especially since they don't know how well he will fit with the new 3-4 defense.
On the other hand, D-back Tramon Williams is attending these voluntary workouts. And he doesn't have a contract. Yes, kids, it's a topsy-turvy world: you have a contract that gives you a $2.5 million raise and you don't show; you don't have a contract and you do. Hmmm...'tis a puzzlement!
Williams probably has an insurance agreement that would cover his existing salary, $460,000, if he were to get injured while he is without contract. However, if he doesn't have something worked out by the time OTAs start in May, Williams likely won't show because of the greater risk from injury; all he has to be concerned about now is injury from lifting weights, conditioning exercises and watching film with coaches.
Keep an eye on both of these situations as things move toward OTAs and mini-camp. In the meantime, you can read more here if you care to.
Montgomery and Hunter re-signed
Without much fanfare this week, the Packers re-signed two of their back up players: DE Michael Montgomery and LB Jason Hunter.
Montgomery was an unrestricted free agent and apparently had some interest from a few other clubs. But in the end, he stayed with the team he knew and who knew him. Given the dearth of defensive line players on the current Packer roster, keeping someone such as Montgomery, even as a back up, isn't a bad move.
Hunter would show occasional flashes, but as this article notes, "Asked to gain weight to play inside on passing downs last season, Hunter wasn't as maneuverable or as effective on special teams." However, given that the Packers sprung for a $1 million tender offer for him, it would seem they are counting on him to step up his play on a more consistent basis. In the new 3-4 scheme, linebackers are key. Having players whose strengths and weaknesses are known means a greater likelihood of putting them in situations to succeed. Let's hope that's the case with Hunter, even in a back up role and on special teams.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Bush is back
No...not that Bush. (Add your own political viewpoint here.)
We're talking about cornerback Jarrett Bush, who was a Packers' restricted free agent. Bush had received an offer sheet from the Titans. The Packers had seven days to match the offer, and did. According to Bush's agent, Derrick Fox, it's a a three-year deal worth $4.5 million. It includes a $1 million signing bonus. Bush's base salaries are $1 million this year, $1.1 million in 2010 and $1.4 million in 2011. Playing time incentives are apparently also part of the deal and can raise its overall value.
So far, a majority of the fan feedback to the article at the online site for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel seems a bit, oh, unsupportive of this move by Packers GM Ted Thompson, shall we say.
While Bush was one of those players who generally played well on special teams -- and hence, why he was of interest to other teams -- he often seemed to be...hmmm...not so spectacular actually playing his cornerback position. Perhaps a new defensive coordinator and staff can get more out of him.
But questions now arise among the Packer faithful as to how this may affect fellow corner Tramon Williams, who is much more of a key figure in the Packers' secondary. A holdout might be forthcoming.
We're talking about cornerback Jarrett Bush, who was a Packers' restricted free agent. Bush had received an offer sheet from the Titans. The Packers had seven days to match the offer, and did. According to Bush's agent, Derrick Fox, it's a a three-year deal worth $4.5 million. It includes a $1 million signing bonus. Bush's base salaries are $1 million this year, $1.1 million in 2010 and $1.4 million in 2011. Playing time incentives are apparently also part of the deal and can raise its overall value.
So far, a majority of the fan feedback to the article at the online site for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel seems a bit, oh, unsupportive of this move by Packers GM Ted Thompson, shall we say.
While Bush was one of those players who generally played well on special teams -- and hence, why he was of interest to other teams -- he often seemed to be...hmmm...not so spectacular actually playing his cornerback position. Perhaps a new defensive coordinator and staff can get more out of him.
But questions now arise among the Packer faithful as to how this may affect fellow corner Tramon Williams, who is much more of a key figure in the Packers' secondary. A holdout might be forthcoming.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Packers Fan Fest notes
The Fifth Annual Packers Fan Fest took place yesterday and today at the Lambeau Field Atrium. And, perhaps for the first time, it was not a sell-out. Management, players and fans all attributed that rare circumstance to the current economic situation.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Packers announce offseason schedule
According to a press release from the Green Bay Packers:
The Green Bay Packers have set the bulk of their offseason schedule leading up to training camp for 2009.
Following the start of the offseason strength and conditioning program on Monday and the NFL Draft in late April, the Packers will hold their annual rookie orientation from May 1-3.
Organized team activities (OTAs) then begin on May 26 and will run through June 18, with the team holding three on-field OTAs per week during that four-week span. The offseason schedule then concludes with a three-day, full-squad mini-camp from June 23-25.
Training camp is slated to begin in late July, but the team's exact reporting date has not yet been set. Players generally report to training camp 15 days prior to the first preseason game.
Key Offseason Dates
The Green Bay Packers have set the bulk of their offseason schedule leading up to training camp for 2009.
Following the start of the offseason strength and conditioning program on Monday and the NFL Draft in late April, the Packers will hold their annual rookie orientation from May 1-3.
Organized team activities (OTAs) then begin on May 26 and will run through June 18, with the team holding three on-field OTAs per week during that four-week span. The offseason schedule then concludes with a three-day, full-squad mini-camp from June 23-25.
Training camp is slated to begin in late July, but the team's exact reporting date has not yet been set. Players generally report to training camp 15 days prior to the first preseason game.
Key Offseason Dates
- Packers Fan Fest: March 13-14 (tickets still available)
- Beginning of Packers' offseason program: March 16
- NFL Draft: April 25-26
- Rookie orientation: May 1-3
- Packers Tailgate Tour: May 11-14
- Organized Team Activities (OTAs): May 26-June 18
- Full-squad mini-camp: June 23-25
- Packers Hall of Fame Induction Banquet: July 18
- Training Camp: late July (exact reporting date TBD)
Saturday, March 07, 2009
In need of defensive line help, Packers sign a safety
As has been rumored for the last several days, the Packers had interest in adding free agent Steelers safety, Anthony Smith, to their roster. And so they did.
Smith was a 10-game starter in 2007, but disappeared last year. At age 26, he is young and said to be loaded with athletic ability. The knock on him has been his maturity. As noted in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel report on the signing, "Smith's career took a wrong turn in Week 13 of 2007 when he guaranteed a victory on the road against the New England Patriots, who then hammered the Steelers, 34-13." Worse, Smith was the safety in coverage who got burned on two of those Patriots' touchdowns.
You can read more about Smith, his past play, and why the Pack decided to take a shot on him despite possible attitude adjustments that might be necessary on his part, here.
It's great that the Packers are dipping into the free agency pool. Just a shame there's nothing on the D-line front so far.
Smith was a 10-game starter in 2007, but disappeared last year. At age 26, he is young and said to be loaded with athletic ability. The knock on him has been his maturity. As noted in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel report on the signing, "Smith's career took a wrong turn in Week 13 of 2007 when he guaranteed a victory on the road against the New England Patriots, who then hammered the Steelers, 34-13." Worse, Smith was the safety in coverage who got burned on two of those Patriots' touchdowns.
You can read more about Smith, his past play, and why the Pack decided to take a shot on him despite possible attitude adjustments that might be necessary on his part, here.
It's great that the Packers are dipping into the free agency pool. Just a shame there's nothing on the D-line front so far.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
A break from the usual...
OK, Packer fans, a slight diversion from the usual team-related fare.
We're going just a bit farther afield. Don't worry. We're still dealing with a Wisconsin sports icon. In this case, the great Bob Uecker. Yes, more generally known as the long-time radio voice of the Milwaukee Brewers. Some true sports geeks will also recall that he actually did have a major league baseball career, beginning with his hometown Milwaukee Braves, and after brief detours with the Cardinals (where he actually won a championship ring in 1964) and Phillies, ending his career with the Braves after their move to Atlanta. OK, only had a career .200 batting average...but, hey, he was in the bigs,man! Still, the late, great Johnny Carson always introduced Ueck as "Mr. Baseball" the 64 times he appeared on The Tonight Show.
Of course, for some, Uecker will always be TV's Mr. Belvedere. Wait...or was that the butler's name? Whatever.
Anwyay, check out the clip of comedian Artie Lange on David Letterman sharing a few Uecker stories. You can find it on this page. Then look for Lange and clip title, "Artie Lange and The Cough Button."
We'll return to our normal hand-ringing over the Packers' free agency non-participation sometime soon. Keep checking back.
We're going just a bit farther afield. Don't worry. We're still dealing with a Wisconsin sports icon. In this case, the great Bob Uecker. Yes, more generally known as the long-time radio voice of the Milwaukee Brewers. Some true sports geeks will also recall that he actually did have a major league baseball career, beginning with his hometown Milwaukee Braves, and after brief detours with the Cardinals (where he actually won a championship ring in 1964) and Phillies, ending his career with the Braves after their move to Atlanta. OK, only had a career .200 batting average...but, hey, he was in the bigs,man! Still, the late, great Johnny Carson always introduced Ueck as "Mr. Baseball" the 64 times he appeared on The Tonight Show.
Of course, for some, Uecker will always be TV's Mr. Belvedere. Wait...or was that the butler's name? Whatever.
Anwyay, check out the clip of comedian Artie Lange on David Letterman sharing a few Uecker stories. You can find it on this page. Then look for Lange and clip title, "Artie Lange and The Cough Button."
We'll return to our normal hand-ringing over the Packers' free agency non-participation sometime soon. Keep checking back.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
OK, this is not good...
So, the Pack has $30 million in salary cap room and any attempt to bolster a thin defensive line through quality free agent help has seemingly vanished as the few available top candidates signed elsewhere. Which leaves the Pack with basically Ryan Pickett, Johnny Jolly, Cullen Jenkins, Aaron Kampman and Justin Harrell (well, he's on the roster anyway) as the defensive line. How and why the Pack didn't seriously go after help to bolster what was already the weak link in last year's defense is a mystery. Granted, both the Redskins and Giants threw a boatload of money at Albert Haynesworth and Chris Canty, respectively. And, probably to most people's way of thinking, overpaid. Certainly this was Packer GM Ted Thompson's point of view, who is never one to throw away money. That was also the case with Colin Cole, whom the Packers lost via free agency to Seattle. While Cole was starting to finally make an impact, with $6 million of guaranteed contract money, Seattle definitely overpaid.
The problem is, that established the market. And there weren't that many quality free agent defensive linemen available to begin with. Reportedly, the Pack has had some discussions with the agents for San Diego's Igor Olshansky, Baltimore's Marques Douglas and New England's Mike Wright, but nothing firm. In fact, other reports were circulating yesterday that Olshanksy had come to terms with Houston.
So where does this leave the Pack? Apparently shifting gears and looking for a safety instead. Go figure.
Check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel for more on that approach, as well as a few other free agent possibilities.
Bottom line is that unless somehow the Pack captures lightening in a bottle with one of the middle-of-the-road or over-the-hill free agents still on the market, or gets lucky with a draft pick, new defensive coordinator Dom Capers is going to have to be very creative with his schemes. Because right now, the Pack's defensive line situation is looking precarious at best.
The problem is, that established the market. And there weren't that many quality free agent defensive linemen available to begin with. Reportedly, the Pack has had some discussions with the agents for San Diego's Igor Olshansky, Baltimore's Marques Douglas and New England's Mike Wright, but nothing firm. In fact, other reports were circulating yesterday that Olshanksy had come to terms with Houston.
So where does this leave the Pack? Apparently shifting gears and looking for a safety instead. Go figure.
Check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel for more on that approach, as well as a few other free agent possibilities.
Bottom line is that unless somehow the Pack captures lightening in a bottle with one of the middle-of-the-road or over-the-hill free agents still on the market, or gets lucky with a draft pick, new defensive coordinator Dom Capers is going to have to be very creative with his schemes. Because right now, the Pack's defensive line situation is looking precarious at best.
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Packers miss out on Canty, lose Cole
The Packers, somewhat contrary to form, had publicly expressed some interest in Cowboys free agent defensive end, Chris Canty. At 6'7" and a tad over 300 pounds, he would have been a good addition for the Pack's new 3-4 scheme. Well, the Pack can now go back to form: Canty reportedly has signed 6-year, $42 million deal with the NY Giants.
Moving right along...
One of the the Packers' own that they hoped to hang on to, defensive lineman Colin Cole, has reportedly signed a 5 year, $21.5 million deal with Seattle. The loss of Cole hurts what was already a thin defensive line. The Pack had thought that if they couldn't resign Cole they could make a strong run at Canty. Not if you believe the report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, which is showing the Newark Star-Ledger as the news source, and a supposed confirmation from one of those ubiquitous "NFL sources."
The quality free agents who could help the Packers upfront in the new 3-4 scheme is now falling off rather considerably. The Pack may now wind up having to hope that Ryan Pickett and Johnny Jolly can rotate to hold the point of attack, along with somehow getting a bookend of some kind to Aaron Kampman.
Cole was just starting to come on as a real player and losing him is a definite blow. And not even being able to have a face to face with Canty before he agreed to terms with the Giants is also disappointing. It will be interesting to see what Ted Thompson does now with the $30 million in salary cap room he's sitting on.
Moving right along...
One of the the Packers' own that they hoped to hang on to, defensive lineman Colin Cole, has reportedly signed a 5 year, $21.5 million deal with Seattle. The loss of Cole hurts what was already a thin defensive line. The Pack had thought that if they couldn't resign Cole they could make a strong run at Canty. Not if you believe the report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, which is showing the Newark Star-Ledger as the news source, and a supposed confirmation from one of those ubiquitous "NFL sources."
The quality free agents who could help the Packers upfront in the new 3-4 scheme is now falling off rather considerably. The Pack may now wind up having to hope that Ryan Pickett and Johnny Jolly can rotate to hold the point of attack, along with somehow getting a bookend of some kind to Aaron Kampman.
Cole was just starting to come on as a real player and losing him is a definite blow. And not even being able to have a face to face with Canty before he agreed to terms with the Giants is also disappointing. It will be interesting to see what Ted Thompson does now with the $30 million in salary cap room he's sitting on.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Packers try to keep their own
The Packers under GM Ted Thompson have always tried to retain their own valuable potential free agents rather than pull in outsiders. Them ya know is better than them ya don't...or something like that
That's why the Packers today issued qualifying tender offers to five of their own players: S Atari Bigby, CB Jarrett Bush, DE Jason Hunter, FB John Kuhn and WR Ruvell Martin. CB Tramon Williams, an exclusive-rights free agent, also was issued a one-year tender offer. Most of these offers are in the $1 million to $1.5 million range. Basically, the Packers reserve the right to match any offer each of these players might receive from another team by issuing these qualifying tenders. It's a preemptive strike before the free agency period begins at midnight tonight.
Who is on this list is as interesting as who isn't: WR Shaun Bodiford and TE Tory Humphrey. Bodiford is a player who always seemed to have a wealth of potential but he could never stay on the field; he's only played in six games over the last two seasons. Given that it would have cost the Pack a minimum of $1.01 million to continue to hope for that potential -- and given the depth of excellent receivers the Packers have on the squad already -- parting ways was the best option. As for Humphrey, his agent, Blake Baratz, is quoted as telling the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that "The Packers seem to want him back and he wants to come back." Baratz and the Packers have apparently already had discussions about Humphrey's return.
You can read the Packers' brief announcement about the tender offers here.
That's why the Packers today issued qualifying tender offers to five of their own players: S Atari Bigby, CB Jarrett Bush, DE Jason Hunter, FB John Kuhn and WR Ruvell Martin. CB Tramon Williams, an exclusive-rights free agent, also was issued a one-year tender offer. Most of these offers are in the $1 million to $1.5 million range. Basically, the Packers reserve the right to match any offer each of these players might receive from another team by issuing these qualifying tenders. It's a preemptive strike before the free agency period begins at midnight tonight.
Who is on this list is as interesting as who isn't: WR Shaun Bodiford and TE Tory Humphrey. Bodiford is a player who always seemed to have a wealth of potential but he could never stay on the field; he's only played in six games over the last two seasons. Given that it would have cost the Pack a minimum of $1.01 million to continue to hope for that potential -- and given the depth of excellent receivers the Packers have on the squad already -- parting ways was the best option. As for Humphrey, his agent, Blake Baratz, is quoted as telling the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that "The Packers seem to want him back and he wants to come back." Baratz and the Packers have apparently already had discussions about Humphrey's return.
You can read the Packers' brief announcement about the tender offers here.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
What's up with the Pack at the NFL Combine?
As any football fan knows, this is the time of year when we start dreaming. About young football players who can help transform our team. Especially if our team has a Top 10 draft pick. Which our team -- the Packers -- does. Number 9 to be exact. (For those of you old enough to remember, or enough of a music fan to get the reference, let's just say that, finally, Ringo Starr's prophetic statement came true: "number nine...number nine...").
So, with the NFL Combine going on in Indianapolis this weekend, what are the Packers up to? As you might well imagine, evaluating talent. Sitting at number 9 gives the Pack lots of options. According to some of the pundits, the top of this draft is deep on offensive possibilities, particularly offensive tackles. With LT Chad Clifton showing signs of wear and tear, and RT Mark Tauscher rehabbing from his season-ending knee injury, a tackle might be on the top of the Packers' list of needs. Although according to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "The top three left tackles in the National Football League draft won't be available for the Green Bay Packers to take with the No. 9 selection based on a Journal Sentinel poll of executives representing 25% of the league." That doesn't mean a good tackle isn't available, of course. Nor does it mean that's the way the Pack would go anyway. "Best available athlete" is usually the standard operating procedure.
So what other needs could be met? Obviously, with the Pack's move to the 3-4 defensive scheme, nose tackles and linebackers become positions of interest. Some believe the pickings are a bit slim in terms of nose tackle talent. As for linebackers, again, not a lot there at the top of the draft.
Would the Packers take a running back at number 9? Not with the seeming commitment they have to Ryan Grant. A back or two farther down the draft certainly is likely.
A few of the mock drafts out there still have the Pack selecting DB Malcolm Jenkins from Ohio State. Mel Kiper said on ESPN the other day, without specific reference to the Packers, that Jenkins' draft position will depend upon his time in the 40-yard dash. A good 40 time would assure Jenkins of going in the top 10. (If you want to hear an interesting discussion of this issue, with specific mention of Jenkins and some others, check out Kiper's comments on ESPN radio here.)
So what will Packers GM Ted Thompson do with his pick? There's about nine weeks to go before the draft...so...stay tuned. But in the meantime, you can read a lot of what's going on in this Combine blog from the Journal-Sentinel's Greg Bedard. Check out Mike McCarthy's comments especially for his thoughts related to personnel, the change in defensive scheme, etc.
So, with the NFL Combine going on in Indianapolis this weekend, what are the Packers up to? As you might well imagine, evaluating talent. Sitting at number 9 gives the Pack lots of options. According to some of the pundits, the top of this draft is deep on offensive possibilities, particularly offensive tackles. With LT Chad Clifton showing signs of wear and tear, and RT Mark Tauscher rehabbing from his season-ending knee injury, a tackle might be on the top of the Packers' list of needs. Although according to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "The top three left tackles in the National Football League draft won't be available for the Green Bay Packers to take with the No. 9 selection based on a Journal Sentinel poll of executives representing 25% of the league." That doesn't mean a good tackle isn't available, of course. Nor does it mean that's the way the Pack would go anyway. "Best available athlete" is usually the standard operating procedure.
So what other needs could be met? Obviously, with the Pack's move to the 3-4 defensive scheme, nose tackles and linebackers become positions of interest. Some believe the pickings are a bit slim in terms of nose tackle talent. As for linebackers, again, not a lot there at the top of the draft.
Would the Packers take a running back at number 9? Not with the seeming commitment they have to Ryan Grant. A back or two farther down the draft certainly is likely.
A few of the mock drafts out there still have the Pack selecting DB Malcolm Jenkins from Ohio State. Mel Kiper said on ESPN the other day, without specific reference to the Packers, that Jenkins' draft position will depend upon his time in the 40-yard dash. A good 40 time would assure Jenkins of going in the top 10. (If you want to hear an interesting discussion of this issue, with specific mention of Jenkins and some others, check out Kiper's comments on ESPN radio here.)
So what will Packers GM Ted Thompson do with his pick? There's about nine weeks to go before the draft...so...stay tuned. But in the meantime, you can read a lot of what's going on in this Combine blog from the Journal-Sentinel's Greg Bedard. Check out Mike McCarthy's comments especially for his thoughts related to personnel, the change in defensive scheme, etc.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Two Days On: Favre Still Retired...and Talking
OK, OK, I know that headline reference is getting old very quickly. Won't use it again. Well, probably not.
Anyway, ol' #4 -- Brett Favre -- gave his first extensive post-retirement on-air interview today on ESPN with that network's Ed Werder. Defintely worth watching. Even if he is wearing a Jets cap. Check it out right here, and settle in for about 15-20 minutes.
If you want to read about the interview and some of his quotes, check out the story here. Brett makes it clear in the interview he loved being a Packer and loves the fans, but also admits that he was angry at Packers' management last year because of the way he felt he was treated. Like we didn't already know that. Still, Brett appears much more reflective than perhaps we might expect. Perhaps we'll see him in Green Bay to retire that jersey sooner that initially thought.
Packers Fan Fest
The Packers will host their annual fan celebration, Packers Fan Fest, March 13-14.
According to an email from the Packers:
"For the popular autograph sessions, we've got a great lineup of our current players, including Atari Bigby, Nick Collins, Mason Crosby, Donald Driver, Ryan Grant, Al Harris, Cullen Jenkins, James Jones, Aaron Kampman and Ryan Pickett. And it's always great to see our alumni, with this year's group including Donny Anderson, LeRoy Butler, Willie Davis, William Henderson, Jerry Kramer, Dorsey Levens, Jan Stenerud, Frank Winters and Ron Wolf.
Fans also will be excited to meet our coaches, particularly new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his staff, at the Friday night meet-and-greet. On Saturday, the coaches' strategy sessions will be particularly interesting, especially when the "Defense 101" session discusses the new '3-4' defense the Packers will employ in 2009.
An attraction not to be overlooked is the exclusive tour through the team's locker room on Saturday. Fans can see behind-the-scenes areas not offered on the regular stadium tour. Also, admission to the Packers Hall of Fame is included as part of the event.
Tickets are available, and priced again at $85 per person. It's an event for the whole family, and kids 6 and younger enter free with a ticketed adult, so please bring along the young fans in your family. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster online, over the phone and in person."
For more info on purchasing tickets and a complete listing of Fan Fest activities, just click here.
Anyway, ol' #4 -- Brett Favre -- gave his first extensive post-retirement on-air interview today on ESPN with that network's Ed Werder. Defintely worth watching. Even if he is wearing a Jets cap. Check it out right here, and settle in for about 15-20 minutes.
If you want to read about the interview and some of his quotes, check out the story here. Brett makes it clear in the interview he loved being a Packer and loves the fans, but also admits that he was angry at Packers' management last year because of the way he felt he was treated. Like we didn't already know that. Still, Brett appears much more reflective than perhaps we might expect. Perhaps we'll see him in Green Bay to retire that jersey sooner that initially thought.
Packers Fan Fest
The Packers will host their annual fan celebration, Packers Fan Fest, March 13-14.
According to an email from the Packers:
"For the popular autograph sessions, we've got a great lineup of our current players, including Atari Bigby, Nick Collins, Mason Crosby, Donald Driver, Ryan Grant, Al Harris, Cullen Jenkins, James Jones, Aaron Kampman and Ryan Pickett. And it's always great to see our alumni, with this year's group including Donny Anderson, LeRoy Butler, Willie Davis, William Henderson, Jerry Kramer, Dorsey Levens, Jan Stenerud, Frank Winters and Ron Wolf.
Fans also will be excited to meet our coaches, particularly new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his staff, at the Friday night meet-and-greet. On Saturday, the coaches' strategy sessions will be particularly interesting, especially when the "Defense 101" session discusses the new '3-4' defense the Packers will employ in 2009.
An attraction not to be overlooked is the exclusive tour through the team's locker room on Saturday. Fans can see behind-the-scenes areas not offered on the regular stadium tour. Also, admission to the Packers Hall of Fame is included as part of the event.
Tickets are available, and priced again at $85 per person. It's an event for the whole family, and kids 6 and younger enter free with a ticketed adult, so please bring along the young fans in your family. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster online, over the phone and in person."
For more info on purchasing tickets and a complete listing of Fan Fest activities, just click here.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
24 Hours Later: Favre Still Retired
It's now about 24 hours since the news broke that ol' #4, Brett Favre, announced his re-retirement. And the news is: he's still retired. But...didn't we hear that once before? Hmmm...
The general consensus among all the sports TV and radio pundits is that this time it just might stick. Why? Sure sounds as if Brett found out that his body was finally giving out after 18 years being the gunslinger.
You may recall reading comments after the end of the season that Jets' sources were strongly suggesting to Brett that if he wanted to return that he should have surgery to fix the elbow/shoulder problems which basically became very apparent down the season stretch. Brett just wasn't able to throw the ball with the zip and accuracy for which he was famous. And it didn't appear as if Brett was too anxious to go under the knife and re-hab just to essentially get one more year of play in to spite Packers' GM Ted Thompson. He'd already done that. Heck, in Favre's interview with ESPN's Ed Werder (see yesterday's post for link), he said that he really didn't care whether his stats were better than new Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, he just wanted to have the Jets win more games than the Packers. He succeeded in that latter goal. He got his personal revenge on Thompson that way, at least.
So, how are we going to know that Brett actually stays with his decision? As one Green Bay sports reporter noted, a clue will be as to whether Brett does decide to have surgery or not. If so, that might be a precursor to yet another comeback. How likely is that? Based on Favre's comments, this time it sounds like he might actually have realized it's time to hang up the cleats for good.
But we thought once before.
Judge for yourself. You can listen to a bit of Favre's teleconference below.
If you want to read Brett's retirement non-press conference comments, you can do so here. You can also see lots of links to lots of other related comments.
One of the better clips is a "burn" from sports guy Jim Rome about how Favre blew it with Green Bay, not vice versa. Watch for yourself.
Statement from the Packers
The Packers took a good portion of yesterday to come up with their official statement. It's short and sweet, which is probably for the best.
The general consensus among all the sports TV and radio pundits is that this time it just might stick. Why? Sure sounds as if Brett found out that his body was finally giving out after 18 years being the gunslinger.
You may recall reading comments after the end of the season that Jets' sources were strongly suggesting to Brett that if he wanted to return that he should have surgery to fix the elbow/shoulder problems which basically became very apparent down the season stretch. Brett just wasn't able to throw the ball with the zip and accuracy for which he was famous. And it didn't appear as if Brett was too anxious to go under the knife and re-hab just to essentially get one more year of play in to spite Packers' GM Ted Thompson. He'd already done that. Heck, in Favre's interview with ESPN's Ed Werder (see yesterday's post for link), he said that he really didn't care whether his stats were better than new Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, he just wanted to have the Jets win more games than the Packers. He succeeded in that latter goal. He got his personal revenge on Thompson that way, at least.
So, how are we going to know that Brett actually stays with his decision? As one Green Bay sports reporter noted, a clue will be as to whether Brett does decide to have surgery or not. If so, that might be a precursor to yet another comeback. How likely is that? Based on Favre's comments, this time it sounds like he might actually have realized it's time to hang up the cleats for good.
But we thought once before.
Judge for yourself. You can listen to a bit of Favre's teleconference below.
If you want to read Brett's retirement non-press conference comments, you can do so here. You can also see lots of links to lots of other related comments.
One of the better clips is a "burn" from sports guy Jim Rome about how Favre blew it with Green Bay, not vice versa. Watch for yourself.
Statement from the Packers
The Packers took a good portion of yesterday to come up with their official statement. It's short and sweet, which is probably for the best.
Congratulations to Brett on a remarkable career. The Packers organization wishes him and his family well. Brett always will hold a special place in Green Bay Packers history, and we remain committed to retiring his number at an appropriate time in the future.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Favre retires...again
According to breaking news from ESPN.com, ol' #4, Brett Favre, is reprising his role as a retired QB. ESPN is reporting that Favre told his agent, Bus Cook, to inform the Jets of his decision. Some TV reports were indicating that there had apparently been an initial informal feeler to see if the Jets would release Favre so that he could have the possibility of playing with another team, likely the ViQueens. The Jets denied that request, apparently. (Thank you, Jets.)
Of course, Brett couldn't resist apparently sticking it once again to the Packers. According to the report, "In an e-mail to ESPN's Ed Werder, Favre indicated that he had no regrets about leaving the game with the Jets rather than with his old team, the Green Bay Packers." Read the rest of the article to find out more about exactly how much spite Favre actually had and has toward Packers' GM Ted Thompson.
From the sounds of things, Favre will not be holding Retirement Press Conference - Part II.
There has as of yet been no official comment from either the Jets or the Packers about this news.
One might also expect, given the loathing which Favre holds for Thompson, that as long as Thompson is GM of the Pack there will probably not be any willingness on Favre's part to participate in any Packer-related events, number retirement ceremony, etc. Too bad Brett can't get let go, as it will do him far more harm in the long run than it will the Pack.
Read the ESPN.com story here.
Retirement Advice from other QBs
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel ran a great article several days ago in which it interviewed several former NFL QB greats regarding their transitions from the playing field to retirement, as well as any advice they might have for Brett.
In light of today's breaking news, you might find this article an interesting read. Check it out here.
Of course, Brett couldn't resist apparently sticking it once again to the Packers. According to the report, "In an e-mail to ESPN's Ed Werder, Favre indicated that he had no regrets about leaving the game with the Jets rather than with his old team, the Green Bay Packers." Read the rest of the article to find out more about exactly how much spite Favre actually had and has toward Packers' GM Ted Thompson.
From the sounds of things, Favre will not be holding Retirement Press Conference - Part II.
There has as of yet been no official comment from either the Jets or the Packers about this news.
One might also expect, given the loathing which Favre holds for Thompson, that as long as Thompson is GM of the Pack there will probably not be any willingness on Favre's part to participate in any Packer-related events, number retirement ceremony, etc. Too bad Brett can't get let go, as it will do him far more harm in the long run than it will the Pack.
Read the ESPN.com story here.
Retirement Advice from other QBs
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel ran a great article several days ago in which it interviewed several former NFL QB greats regarding their transitions from the playing field to retirement, as well as any advice they might have for Brett.
In light of today's breaking news, you might find this article an interesting read. Check it out here.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
What it was, was football
It's Super Bowl Sunday, one of the most hyped and overrated days in all of sports. The 43rd variation on the theme takes place later today in Tampa. Regrettably, the only connection today for Packer fans is in the name of the trophy: the Vince Lombardi Trophy. And, as even those who aren't major sports fans probably know, it's the Steelers vs. the Cardinals. All the prognosticators say the Steelers will win because of their tremendous defense. True, defense usually wins championships and the playbook says that if you get to Cardinals' QB Kurt Warner he can be rattled and make mistakes. But Philadelphia knew this two weeks ago. And still, Warner lit them up. This is a Cardinals team that has an explosive offense, got hot at the right time, and given its history is proof positive of the adage that even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while.
My head tells me the Steelers will indeed win because they are the better team. But the Cardinals have beaten better teams on the way to Tampa. I like the underdog. I won't predict a score. But I will be rooting for the Cardinals despite my long-standing appreciation for the Steelers. Let's just hope it's a good game throughout. I'm looking forward to seeing Springsteen at halftime and to putting on the 3D glasses for that commercial...yes, I entertain easily. But when the Packers aren't there to generate the real excitement, this is all we have left.
Let's put the game in perspective
Sometimes -- especially when something becomes just a bit overblown -- it's useful to view it from a fresh perspective. Nothing could do so better as regards football in general than Andy Griffith's famous monologue, from 1953 no less.
Here's audio of that famous bit, to which someone has also attached some animation. I'm also providing the transcript below for those who need a bit of help understanding Griffith's accentuated Carolina drawl. Enjoy!
What It Was, Was Football
My head tells me the Steelers will indeed win because they are the better team. But the Cardinals have beaten better teams on the way to Tampa. I like the underdog. I won't predict a score. But I will be rooting for the Cardinals despite my long-standing appreciation for the Steelers. Let's just hope it's a good game throughout. I'm looking forward to seeing Springsteen at halftime and to putting on the 3D glasses for that commercial...yes, I entertain easily. But when the Packers aren't there to generate the real excitement, this is all we have left.
Let's put the game in perspective
Sometimes -- especially when something becomes just a bit overblown -- it's useful to view it from a fresh perspective. Nothing could do so better as regards football in general than Andy Griffith's famous monologue, from 1953 no less.
Here's audio of that famous bit, to which someone has also attached some animation. I'm also providing the transcript below for those who need a bit of help understanding Griffith's accentuated Carolina drawl. Enjoy!
What It Was, Was Football
It was back last October, I believe it was. We was a-goin’ t’ hold
a tent service in this college town.
And we got thar about dinnertime on Saturday And different ones
of us thought we ought to get us a mouthful to eat before
that we set up the tent.
And so, we got down off of the truck and followed this little bunch of
people through this small little bitty patch of woods.
And we come up on a big sign, says “Get somethin’ to eat here!”
And I went up and got me two hot dogs and a big Orange drink.
And before I could take ary mouthful of that food this whole raft of
people come up around me
and got me to where I couldn’t eat nothin’ up like—
and I dropped my big Orange drink. I did!
Well friends, they commenced to move and they wasn’t so much
I could do except to move with ‘em.
Well, we commenced to go through all kinds of doors and gates
and I don’t know what all, and I looked up over one of ‘em
and it says “North Gate”, and we kept on a-goin’ through there,
and pretty soon we come up on a young boy.
And he says “Ticket, please…” And I says “Friend, I don’t have a ticket.
I don’t even know where it is that I’m a-goin’.” I did!
Well he says “Come out as quick as you can.”
And I says “I’ll do ‘er—I’ll turn around the first chance I get.”
Well, we kept on a-movin’ through there and pretty soon everyone
got where it was that they was a’goin’ because they parted
and I could see pretty good. I could!
And what I seen was this whole raft a people a-settin’ on these
two banks and a-lookin’ at one another acrosst this purty little
green cow pasture! Well, they was! And somebody had took
and drawed white lines all over it and drove posts in it and
I don’t know what all! And I looked down there and I seen
five or six convicts a-runnin’ up and down and a-blowin’ whistles!
They was!
And then I looked down there and I seen these pretty girls
a-wearin’ these little bitty short dresses and a-dancin’ around,
an’ so I set down and thought I’d see what it was that was
a-gonna happen. I did!
And about the time I got set down good, I looked down there
and I seen thirty or forty men come a-runnin’ out of one end
of a great big outhouse down there! They did!
An’ everybody where I was a-settin’ got up and hollered!
And about that time thirty or forty come a-runnin out of the
other end of that outhouse and the other bank full—
THEY got up and hollered!
An’ I asked this feller that was a-settin’ beside me, I says
“Friend, what is it that they’re a-hollerin’ for?”
Well he whopped me on the back and he says
“Buddy, have a drink!”
Well, I says “I believe I will have another big Orange.”
An’ I got it and set back down.
An’ when I got back down there again, I seen that them men
had got in two little bitty bunches down there.
They had—real close together--and they voted! They did!
They voted and elected one man apiece.
And them two men come out in the middle of that cow pasture
and shook hands like they hadn’t seen one another in a long time.
And then a convict come over to where they was a-standin’ an’ he
took out a quarter and they commenced to odd-man right there!
They did!
Well, after a while I seen what it was that they was a-odd-mannin’ for.
It was that both bunches-full of them men wanted this funny-lookin’
little punkin to play with! They did, and I know friends that they
couldn’t-a eat it ‘ cause they kicked it the whole evenin’
and it never busted!
But anyhow what I was a-tellin’ was that both bunches-full wanted
that thang and one bunch got it an’ it made the other bunch
just as mad as they could be and friends I seen that evenin’
the awfullest fight that I’d ever seen in my life!
I did! They would run at one another and kick one another
and throw one another down and stomp on one another
and grind their feet in one another and I don’t know what all!
And just as fast as one would get hurt they’d tote him off
and run another’n on!
Well, they done that as long as I set there but pretty soon
this boy that had said “Ticket please…” he come up to me and
he says “Friend, you’re gonna have to leave because it is that
you don’t have a ticket.” And I says “Well, alright…” an’ I got up
an’ left. An’ I don’t know, friends, until this day what it was that they
was a-doin’ down there, but I have studied about it, and I think it’s
some kindly of a contest where they see which bunch-full of them
men can take that punkin an’ run from one end of that cow pasture
to the other’n without either gettin’ knocked down—
‘er steppin’ in somethin’ !
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Kevin Greene joins coaching staff
Although this will be his first full-time coaching gig, former linebacker Kevin Greene says now is the time to get on this side of the game. The opportunity to join his former coach in Pittsburgh and Carolina, Dom Capers, as part of the new defensive coaching staff at Green Bay was too good to pass up. Greene will coach outside linebackers. Assistant head coach/linebackers Winston Moss will have his title restructured to reflect that in addition to still retaining his assistant head coach title he will coach inside linebackers.
While Greene may not have a lot of coaching experience -- he did have some volunteer coaching experience with a variety of teams over the past five summers -- you can't question his linebacker credentials as a player. He was one of those guys that always brought an attitude and backed it up with his tough-as-nails play. As an article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel points out, "Greene personified the 3-4 outside linebacker in Capers' blitz-happy defense, finishing third on the NFL's all-time sack list behind Bruce Smith and Reggie White. His understanding of the position will help potential outside linebackers Aaron Kampman, Brady Poppinga, Desmond Bishop and Jeremy Thompson adjust to a new position."
In the move to the 3-4, Greene's background could be invaluable. Linebackers play a much larger role in this defensive scheme and the Packers are going to have to maximize the play they get from that unit in order to be successful. If nothing else, having Greene in your face should up the intensity for those players.
You can read a really good article about Greene here.
Peter King says Favre done
In an interview on ESPN's Pardon the Interruption yesterday, Sports Illustrated's Peter King -- a favorite texting buddy of Brett Favre -- said he thinks Brett is done. He said Brett knows that he can still play. According to King, Jets' doctors recommended strongly, though, that if Brett wanted to continue to play he should have surgery to repair his shoulder. Brett said no. For King, that told him Brett had decided to hang it up. The only other possibility was if Brett could play "where he really wanted to be." When pressed by PIT co-host Tony Kornheiser as to where that would be, King didn't say Green Bay. Instead, he said Minnesota. The follow-up question about why Minnesota, of course, was not asked. But we all know that would only be to be able to play the Packers twice and stick it to GM Ted Thompson.
What's the likelihood of this happening? Possible, one supposes, although not probable. The Packers had a provision in their trade deal with the Jets that if the Jets traded Favre to the ViQueens that the Packers would get three first round draft picks from the Jets as "poison pill" compensation. But, if the Jets cut Brett, any team would be free to sign him. However, as King noted in his interview, any team doing so would just be picking up a one-year bandaid at best; and would any team really want to do that?
Let's just hope that King is right and Brett decides, once and for all, to hang up the cleats. It's what he should have done last year when he first announced his retirement. He could have gone out with a lot of class and dignity and the undying affection of Packer fans everywhere. Instead...well...you know.
The drama isn't done yet. But in the next few months one would hope so.
2009 Draft
It's mid-January, Super Bowl week, and the best that most Packer fans can do these days is start thinking about the NFL draft.
For those who want to get an early start on the speculation, check out Mel Kiper's early line on the 2009 picks with his initial mock draft. At this point, he has the Pack taking CB Malcolm Jenkins out of Ohio State. You can see all of Kiper's picks here.
While starting to find replacements for Al Harris and Charles Woodson is not a bad idea, given the move to the 3-4 scheme, one might think that the Packers' need for linebackers and nose tackles might take a higher priority. One other definite need going into this draft will be to find solid offensive tackles. LT Chad Clifton started to show definite signs of wear and age this last season and RT Mark Tauscher is a question mark after his season-ending knee injury, as well as his age.
We'll keep you posted on other mock drafts as they pop up.
While Greene may not have a lot of coaching experience -- he did have some volunteer coaching experience with a variety of teams over the past five summers -- you can't question his linebacker credentials as a player. He was one of those guys that always brought an attitude and backed it up with his tough-as-nails play. As an article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel points out, "Greene personified the 3-4 outside linebacker in Capers' blitz-happy defense, finishing third on the NFL's all-time sack list behind Bruce Smith and Reggie White. His understanding of the position will help potential outside linebackers Aaron Kampman, Brady Poppinga, Desmond Bishop and Jeremy Thompson adjust to a new position."
In the move to the 3-4, Greene's background could be invaluable. Linebackers play a much larger role in this defensive scheme and the Packers are going to have to maximize the play they get from that unit in order to be successful. If nothing else, having Greene in your face should up the intensity for those players.
You can read a really good article about Greene here.
Peter King says Favre done
In an interview on ESPN's Pardon the Interruption yesterday, Sports Illustrated's Peter King -- a favorite texting buddy of Brett Favre -- said he thinks Brett is done. He said Brett knows that he can still play. According to King, Jets' doctors recommended strongly, though, that if Brett wanted to continue to play he should have surgery to repair his shoulder. Brett said no. For King, that told him Brett had decided to hang it up. The only other possibility was if Brett could play "where he really wanted to be." When pressed by PIT co-host Tony Kornheiser as to where that would be, King didn't say Green Bay. Instead, he said Minnesota. The follow-up question about why Minnesota, of course, was not asked. But we all know that would only be to be able to play the Packers twice and stick it to GM Ted Thompson.
What's the likelihood of this happening? Possible, one supposes, although not probable. The Packers had a provision in their trade deal with the Jets that if the Jets traded Favre to the ViQueens that the Packers would get three first round draft picks from the Jets as "poison pill" compensation. But, if the Jets cut Brett, any team would be free to sign him. However, as King noted in his interview, any team doing so would just be picking up a one-year bandaid at best; and would any team really want to do that?
Let's just hope that King is right and Brett decides, once and for all, to hang up the cleats. It's what he should have done last year when he first announced his retirement. He could have gone out with a lot of class and dignity and the undying affection of Packer fans everywhere. Instead...well...you know.
The drama isn't done yet. But in the next few months one would hope so.
2009 Draft
It's mid-January, Super Bowl week, and the best that most Packer fans can do these days is start thinking about the NFL draft.
For those who want to get an early start on the speculation, check out Mel Kiper's early line on the 2009 picks with his initial mock draft. At this point, he has the Pack taking CB Malcolm Jenkins out of Ohio State. You can see all of Kiper's picks here.
While starting to find replacements for Al Harris and Charles Woodson is not a bad idea, given the move to the 3-4 scheme, one might think that the Packers' need for linebackers and nose tackles might take a higher priority. One other definite need going into this draft will be to find solid offensive tackles. LT Chad Clifton started to show definite signs of wear and age this last season and RT Mark Tauscher is a question mark after his season-ending knee injury, as well as his age.
We'll keep you posted on other mock drafts as they pop up.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A few moments with Dom Capers
The Packers' new defensive coordinator, Dom Capers, didn't waste much time getting in the swing of things. He met with reporters today for about 30 minutes.
Not surprisingly, he said he was excited to be in Green Bay. He said some more interesting things, as well.
If you want to read some excerpts, check those out here.
For the full transcript, go here.
Not surprisingly, he said he was excited to be in Green Bay. He said some more interesting things, as well.
If you want to read some excerpts, check those out here.
For the full transcript, go here.
Monday, January 19, 2009
It's official: Capers and the 3-4 now in Green Bay
The hire of Dom Capers as offensive coordinator seemed to come out of the blue. It was a fast and furious romance over the weekend between head coach Mike McCarthy and his new defensive coordinator. It must have been a magical weekend. Because not only did the Pack hire Capers, McCarthy also has already made the decision to run the 3-4 defensive scheme with which Capers is most well-versed.
But in McCarthy's press conference earlier this afternoon in which he made the Capers announcement official, he also gave indications that the team would use both 3- and 4-man fronts.
It will be worth your time to read the transcript of the press conference for more insights on the Capers hire, personnel considerations, other staff hires, etc. It's the whole enchilada right here.
Polls Underway
By the way, for about the next week we're running a pair of polls in the righthand column as to whether you like the move to hire Dom Capers or not, as well as your opinion of the 3-4 in Green Bay. Let us and other fans know what you think by taking a moment to respond to the polls. And best of all...they're FREE!!!
But in McCarthy's press conference earlier this afternoon in which he made the Capers announcement official, he also gave indications that the team would use both 3- and 4-man fronts.
It will be worth your time to read the transcript of the press conference for more insights on the Capers hire, personnel considerations, other staff hires, etc. It's the whole enchilada right here.
Polls Underway
By the way, for about the next week we're running a pair of polls in the righthand column as to whether you like the move to hire Dom Capers or not, as well as your opinion of the 3-4 in Green Bay. Let us and other fans know what you think by taking a moment to respond to the polls. And best of all...they're FREE!!!
The Capers solution
That's what Packers head coach Mike McCarthy is hoping for right now. He's hoping his hire yesterday, as being reported in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel and elsewhere this morning -- will be the solution he needs to resurrect a pathetic defense. Enter Dom (not DON!) Capers. McCarthy wanted someone with experience and with Capers he gets that in spades. Capers is an experienced defensive coordinator who is immersed in the 3-4 scheme, but who has also run 4-3 and hybrid schemes. Capers has also been a head coach with two teams.
Capers has a reputation as a no-nonsense type of coach and a very good defensive coordinator. While discipline isn't something which has been a problem for the Packers defense, perhaps accountability this last season was. Capers will help bring a greater sense of that to the unit.
Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers, was asked this morning on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee, what he thought the Capers hire would mean for the defense. He acknowledged Capers' primary experience with the 3-4 scheme, but that he was the kind of flexible coach that could work with the Packers 4-3. Larrivee also said that it could be a hybrid type defense at times. Larrivee also noted that running that type of scheme would mean the Packers would have to get a few different types of players than they have now, but it would also allow the Packers to use their best defensive players in different ways, as well.
The needs on defense probably won't change much: defensive linemen and linebackers are key needs. But it might be the type of those players that is different under a Capers-run scheme.
From the perspective of this writer, I think this is a good hire. Some say the big cats -- Nolan and Williams -- got away and that the Packers are having to settle for perhaps a second tier level of coach, especially since the Packers were the first to contact Capers about a D-coordinator position. But given the wealth of Capers' coaching experience -- 38 years overall, with 23 in the NFL -- he might be just what the doctor ordered. McCarthy spent two days with Capers and the two obviously felt comfortable with one another and what the direction of the team needed to be and how things were going to be accomplished.
If you want to read the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel article about the hire, you can do so here. There has as yet been no official announcement from the Packers. Once that official announcement is made by the team, PackerFansUnited.com will be running a poll to ask whether you like this hiring decision or not. So keep checking back for further updates.
Capers has a reputation as a no-nonsense type of coach and a very good defensive coordinator. While discipline isn't something which has been a problem for the Packers defense, perhaps accountability this last season was. Capers will help bring a greater sense of that to the unit.
Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers, was asked this morning on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee, what he thought the Capers hire would mean for the defense. He acknowledged Capers' primary experience with the 3-4 scheme, but that he was the kind of flexible coach that could work with the Packers 4-3. Larrivee also said that it could be a hybrid type defense at times. Larrivee also noted that running that type of scheme would mean the Packers would have to get a few different types of players than they have now, but it would also allow the Packers to use their best defensive players in different ways, as well.
The needs on defense probably won't change much: defensive linemen and linebackers are key needs. But it might be the type of those players that is different under a Capers-run scheme.
From the perspective of this writer, I think this is a good hire. Some say the big cats -- Nolan and Williams -- got away and that the Packers are having to settle for perhaps a second tier level of coach, especially since the Packers were the first to contact Capers about a D-coordinator position. But given the wealth of Capers' coaching experience -- 38 years overall, with 23 in the NFL -- he might be just what the doctor ordered. McCarthy spent two days with Capers and the two obviously felt comfortable with one another and what the direction of the team needed to be and how things were going to be accomplished.
If you want to read the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel article about the hire, you can do so here. There has as yet been no official announcement from the Packers. Once that official announcement is made by the team, PackerFansUnited.com will be running a poll to ask whether you like this hiring decision or not. So keep checking back for further updates.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
The Capers caper is now afoot
Dom Capers, former head coach with Carolina and Houston, and someone who has spent most if not all of his coaching career on the defensive side of the ball, is the latest candidate to interview with Packers head coach Mike McCarthy. Sometime this weekend, they'll have a face-to-face. Most of Capers' experience is running a 3-4 defense, which has not been the Packers scheme the last several years. Still, Capers is one of those out there with a well-respected name.
Still, he may be off the board soon too. A report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel says, "The Rocky Mountain News has reported that Capers is all but a lock to become the Denver Broncos' defensive backs coach under newly hired coordinator Mike Nolan, but apparently the lure of becoming a coordinator again was enough to get Capers in for an interview."
So, we'll see where this one goes. Jim Haslett is still under consideration, the recently dismissed coaching staff at Tampa Bay may have a possibility or two within it, and of course you can bet McCarthy is awaiting the outcomes of tomorrow's playoff games to see who he might finally be able to talk to.
You can read more here.
Still, he may be off the board soon too. A report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel says, "The Rocky Mountain News has reported that Capers is all but a lock to become the Denver Broncos' defensive backs coach under newly hired coordinator Mike Nolan, but apparently the lure of becoming a coordinator again was enough to get Capers in for an interview."
So, we'll see where this one goes. Jim Haslett is still under consideration, the recently dismissed coaching staff at Tampa Bay may have a possibility or two within it, and of course you can bet McCarthy is awaiting the outcomes of tomorrow's playoff games to see who he might finally be able to talk to.
You can read more here.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Still no defensive coordinator for the Pack
Of the top names initially mentioned as likely prospects for the open Packers defensive coordinator position, arguably the top two are now off the board. Mike Nolan, who was said to be a lock for the job, took the same job with Denver. Today, Gregg Williams accepted the defensive coordinator position -- as many had also projected -- with New Orleans.
So, we're starting to get to option number three. That supposedly is now Jim Haslett, who interviewed with Packers head coach Mike McCarthy on Monday and Tuesday. Haslett is first waiting to hear, however, whether he will be named the Rams new head coach, a position he held on an interim basis this past season for 10 games. According to reports, it seems as if St. Louis wants to go in a different direction. And so far, the Packers are the only team that has shown an interest in Haslett for either a coordinator or head coaching slot.
According to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "It's possible McCarthy will wait until after this weekend to see if any assistant coach prospects become available. Among those would be Philadelphia secondary coach Sean McDermott, Pittsburgh linebackers coach Keith Butler and Baltimore special assistant Vic Fangio."
McDermott is said to be an intriguing possibility given that he's been part of the Jim Johnson defensive coaching staff with Philadelphia for several years. But league rules preclude any team from talking to McDermott until the Eagles are out of the playoffs. That's why McCarthy might wait out the weekend results before making his decision. If the Eagles beat Arizona, as is expected, waiting until after the Super Bowl to see if McDermott is even interested in the position would be too long of a wait, in all likelihood, for the Packers.
It will be an interesting next few days. Unfortunately for the Packers, the decision as to whom eventually fills the key defensive coordinator spot is not entirely in their own hands.
You can read the Journal-Sentinel article here.
So, we're starting to get to option number three. That supposedly is now Jim Haslett, who interviewed with Packers head coach Mike McCarthy on Monday and Tuesday. Haslett is first waiting to hear, however, whether he will be named the Rams new head coach, a position he held on an interim basis this past season for 10 games. According to reports, it seems as if St. Louis wants to go in a different direction. And so far, the Packers are the only team that has shown an interest in Haslett for either a coordinator or head coaching slot.
According to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "It's possible McCarthy will wait until after this weekend to see if any assistant coach prospects become available. Among those would be Philadelphia secondary coach Sean McDermott, Pittsburgh linebackers coach Keith Butler and Baltimore special assistant Vic Fangio."
McDermott is said to be an intriguing possibility given that he's been part of the Jim Johnson defensive coaching staff with Philadelphia for several years. But league rules preclude any team from talking to McDermott until the Eagles are out of the playoffs. That's why McCarthy might wait out the weekend results before making his decision. If the Eagles beat Arizona, as is expected, waiting until after the Super Bowl to see if McDermott is even interested in the position would be too long of a wait, in all likelihood, for the Packers.
It will be an interesting next few days. Unfortunately for the Packers, the decision as to whom eventually fills the key defensive coordinator spot is not entirely in their own hands.
You can read the Journal-Sentinel article here.
Mike Golic's Lambeau Field fan story
On the Mike and Mike in the Morning ESPN radio show today -- also carried live on ESPN2 -- former NFL D-lineman Mike Golic (of Mike and Mike fame...but is he the first one or the second one?) and his counterpart, Mike Greenberg, were discussing -- for whatever reason -- Lambeau Field. Greenberg's memory was of his first time as a reporter driving to Lambeau, which he said was "in the middle of nowhere." But then he went on to say that about a mile or so away from the stadium you start to smell the brats and sauerkraut. Golic added that he had played at Lambeau a few times, but when he later was broadcasting from there he'd sometimes join the fans for the tailgating festivities. Nothing better, he said. Although he did note that about the only other stadium that has as good a smell is Kansas City "with all the barbecue." Greenberg then asked Golic if he'd ever seen the tailgating in San Francisco. "White wine, lobster...". Golic and Greenberg quickly agreed that "No, that's just not right." (I may be paraphrasing here, but that is the sense of it. As it rightly should be.)
But the highlight of Golic's Lambeau stories was another from his broadcast days. He said that one time he was up in the press booth which, he noted, is so close to the last row of fans that if it weren't for the glass you could reach out and touch them. Anyway, he said that right below them this one time was a bunch of guys, said it looked like maybe a bunch of fathers and sons. As the game went on, Golic said he and his colleagues in the press box were noting that these guys were "really pounding the beer down." At one point, Golic said, one of the guys who looked as if he was barely of drinking age started really "horking." (BTW, isn't that one of the better -- and perhaps even under-used -- euphemisms for vomitting that's out there? Go ahead, use it the next time one of your buddies blows chow. Impress your friends!)
Sorry, back to Golic's story. He said that this young guy was "horking everywhere." People were standing back and giving him room, of course, and then were patting him on the back making sure he was OK. But, Golic said, the really impressive thing was what happened next. This young fellow then proceeded to walk down the steps (which in itself may have been a pretty impressive feat given what had just happened). Golic said the folks in the press booth thought the guy was leaving to go clean himself up. But then, Golic recalled, they see this young man coming back up the steps "with a full tray of beers." "We applauded the guy," Golic added.
That, my friends, is one of the classic boot and rally stories. There are, no doubt, many more that help contribute to Lambeau's lore.
It's great to be a Packers fan!
But the highlight of Golic's Lambeau stories was another from his broadcast days. He said that one time he was up in the press booth which, he noted, is so close to the last row of fans that if it weren't for the glass you could reach out and touch them. Anyway, he said that right below them this one time was a bunch of guys, said it looked like maybe a bunch of fathers and sons. As the game went on, Golic said he and his colleagues in the press box were noting that these guys were "really pounding the beer down." At one point, Golic said, one of the guys who looked as if he was barely of drinking age started really "horking." (BTW, isn't that one of the better -- and perhaps even under-used -- euphemisms for vomitting that's out there? Go ahead, use it the next time one of your buddies blows chow. Impress your friends!)
Sorry, back to Golic's story. He said that this young guy was "horking everywhere." People were standing back and giving him room, of course, and then were patting him on the back making sure he was OK. But, Golic said, the really impressive thing was what happened next. This young fellow then proceeded to walk down the steps (which in itself may have been a pretty impressive feat given what had just happened). Golic said the folks in the press booth thought the guy was leaving to go clean himself up. But then, Golic recalled, they see this young man coming back up the steps "with a full tray of beers." "We applauded the guy," Golic added.
That, my friends, is one of the classic boot and rally stories. There are, no doubt, many more that help contribute to Lambeau's lore.
It's great to be a Packers fan!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Packers Fan Fest March 13-14
The Fifth Annual Packers Fan Fest will be held in the Lambeau Field Atrium Friday and Saturday March 13-14.
Packers Appearing: Mark Murphy and other members of the Packers staff.
Current Players: Nick Collins, Donald Driver, Aaron Kampman and Al Harris. More to be announced.
Packers Alumni: To be announced.
Tickets are priced at $85 per person and are good for both days of the event. Children 6 and younger are free. Tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. on Jan. 21 through Ticketmaster and can be purchased online, over the phone and in person. Those ubiquitous Ticketmaster fees will also apply. (Sorry, folks. There's no bigger unregulated monopoly in the U.S. than Ticketmaster.) A direct link to online ticket sales information can be found at www.packers.com.
You can read more about the entire event, schedule, etc. here.
Slocum named new Special Teams Coordinator
The Packers are apparently promoting Shawn Slocum to take over special teams. He previously served as an assistant under retired former coordinator Mike Stock for the past three seasons. Let's hope he learned what not to do.
You can read more about that staff move here, including information about the search for the team's new defensive coordinator.
Packers Appearing: Mark Murphy and other members of the Packers staff.
Current Players: Nick Collins, Donald Driver, Aaron Kampman and Al Harris. More to be announced.
Packers Alumni: To be announced.
Tickets are priced at $85 per person and are good for both days of the event. Children 6 and younger are free. Tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. on Jan. 21 through Ticketmaster and can be purchased online, over the phone and in person. Those ubiquitous Ticketmaster fees will also apply. (Sorry, folks. There's no bigger unregulated monopoly in the U.S. than Ticketmaster.) A direct link to online ticket sales information can be found at www.packers.com.
You can read more about the entire event, schedule, etc. here.
Slocum named new Special Teams Coordinator
The Packers are apparently promoting Shawn Slocum to take over special teams. He previously served as an assistant under retired former coordinator Mike Stock for the past three seasons. Let's hope he learned what not to do.
You can read more about that staff move here, including information about the search for the team's new defensive coordinator.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Nolan as D-Coordinator...Not
According to reports, the info which had led this writer and others to say that former 49ers head coach Mike Nolan would be named as the Packers new defensive coordinator seems to have been, hmmm, not as inside and reliable as initially thought. But hey, even the Green Bay Press-Gazette was saying that Nolan was an 80-90 percent lock.
Anyway, the NFL Network was reporting late last night that Nolan would be named the new defensive coordinator at Denver, which has been known to pay assistance coaches very well.
Whether it all came down to money or something else, we may never know. Nolan had been the special teams/linebackers coach in Denver from 1987-'92.
So, at this point it's really anybody's guess as to who may land the gig in Green Bay. Former Jacksonville Jaguars coordinator Gregg Williams and Philadelphia Eagles secondary coach Sean McDermott are said to be front runners. Williams interviewed with Packers head coach Mike McCarthy on Friday. McDermott can't be be talked to under league rules until the Eagles are out of the playoffs, whether that's another week...or longer.
Winston Moss, one of the lone assistants to be retained in the Packers purge of their defensive coaching staff, is still in the running. But he is also interviewing for a few open head coaching slots, including St. Louis and Oakland.
So, what seemed like a quick pick, isn't. Stay tuned.
Read more here if care to.
Anyway, the NFL Network was reporting late last night that Nolan would be named the new defensive coordinator at Denver, which has been known to pay assistance coaches very well.
Whether it all came down to money or something else, we may never know. Nolan had been the special teams/linebackers coach in Denver from 1987-'92.
So, at this point it's really anybody's guess as to who may land the gig in Green Bay. Former Jacksonville Jaguars coordinator Gregg Williams and Philadelphia Eagles secondary coach Sean McDermott are said to be front runners. Williams interviewed with Packers head coach Mike McCarthy on Friday. McDermott can't be be talked to under league rules until the Eagles are out of the playoffs, whether that's another week...or longer.
Winston Moss, one of the lone assistants to be retained in the Packers purge of their defensive coaching staff, is still in the running. But he is also interviewing for a few open head coaching slots, including St. Louis and Oakland.
So, what seemed like a quick pick, isn't. Stay tuned.
Read more here if care to.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Ted Thompson Says...
If you want to know what Packers GM Ted Thompson has to say about the 6-10 season and what he sees ahead for the team, you have to check out Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel sports writer Tom Silverstein's article in today's edition. Silverstein interviewed Thompson for 90 minutes prior to Mike McCarthy canning most of the defensive coaching staff so that is not part of the conversation.
Thompson is always guarded in what he says. But there are some interesting aspects of the Q&A, particularly when talking about his having two losing seasons out of his four at the helm compared to no losing seasons between 1992 and 2004 when he took charge, comments about Justin Harrell, having the youngest team in the league for the third straight season, how fans feel about him, and certain personnel moves including, of course, the Brett Favre thing.
Check it out here. It will perhaps tell you some things you wanted to know, but will also leave you with questions still unanswered. That's Thompson, who says in the interview that, "I would like most of the people to understand that we're trying to do the right thing." This writer, for one, believes that. But that doesn't mean we're satisfied.
That also seems to be the point of Mike Vandermause's commentary in the Green Bay Press-Gazette. The title alone tells you where this article is going: "Thompson gaffes contribute to down year". Vandermause is sports editor of the Press-Gazette. And his insights are always a worthwhile read. When he starts comparing some of Thompson's personnel moves to those of former GM/Coach Mike Sherman...well...yikes! You know it can't be good. Read it out for yourself here.
And then hope this next season he and McCarthy get their acts together.
Thompson is always guarded in what he says. But there are some interesting aspects of the Q&A, particularly when talking about his having two losing seasons out of his four at the helm compared to no losing seasons between 1992 and 2004 when he took charge, comments about Justin Harrell, having the youngest team in the league for the third straight season, how fans feel about him, and certain personnel moves including, of course, the Brett Favre thing.
Check it out here. It will perhaps tell you some things you wanted to know, but will also leave you with questions still unanswered. That's Thompson, who says in the interview that, "I would like most of the people to understand that we're trying to do the right thing." This writer, for one, believes that. But that doesn't mean we're satisfied.
That also seems to be the point of Mike Vandermause's commentary in the Green Bay Press-Gazette. The title alone tells you where this article is going: "Thompson gaffes contribute to down year". Vandermause is sports editor of the Press-Gazette. And his insights are always a worthwhile read. When he starts comparing some of Thompson's personnel moves to those of former GM/Coach Mike Sherman...well...yikes! You know it can't be good. Read it out for yourself here.
And then hope this next season he and McCarthy get their acts together.
Friday, January 09, 2009
Happy 75th B-day, Bart Starr!
As Packers fans, we should not let this day -- January 9 -- pass (no pun intended...wait for it) without wishing a very Happy Birthday to Packer great and Hall of Famer, Bart Starr. Bart turns 75 today.
While all the talk and focus these days is about the place, eventually, of Brett Favre in Packers and NFL history -- both well established, of course -- any discussion related to the Packers best QB really has to start with Starr.
As Tony Kornheiser said on ESPN's Pardon the Interruption program today, Favre has one Super Bowl ring, Starr has two plus three other NFL championship rings. Now...how do you rate the best Packers QB???
Mr. Starr has been one of the greatest members of the Packers community since he first joined the team in 1956 as a 17th round draft pick (yes, you read that right...17th round...but things were a bit different back then). He has been a quarterback, coach, and good will ambassador for the team, being one of those former "Glory Years" players instrumental in helping get the Brown County funding referendum passed for the renovated Lambeau Field.
Starr has also been involved in the broader Wisconsin community since his playing days. For more than 40 years, he and his wife, Cherry, has been involved in promoting and helping fund the Rawhide Boys Ranch near New London, WI, "a faith-based, non-profit residential care center dedicated to changing the lives of troubled teen boys."
Above all and always, Bart Starr has been a class gentleman. The majority of players in today's NFL could take Starr for a role model on and off the field. If only...
You can read more about Starr here.
Happy Birthday, Bart! And may you have many, many more.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Nolan front-runner for Packers D-coordinator
Reports are circulating that former San Francisco head coach Mike Nolan is likely to be the Packers new defensive coordinator.
According to an article in the Green Bay Press Gazette, "Two NFL sources said Tuesday that coach Mike McCarthy appears likely to bring in Nolan to replace Bob Sanders, whose firing was announced Monday. One source said word at the Cactus Bowl, the all-star game for Division II seniors in Kingsville, Texas, is the move is all but done. Another said there appeared to be at least a 90 percent chance Nolan will join the Packers."
If Nolan is named as the coordinator, he will rejoin Packers head coach Mike McCarthy whom he hired as offensive coordinator with the 49ers.
Nolan has 11 years experience as an NFL defensive coordinator, which is obviously a plus. The Press-Gazette notes that, "As a head coach, Nolan had some problems with players on the offensive side of the ball, but as a defensive coordinator, he has a reputation for being a high-energy, optimistic leader whom players like."
This writer has also received information from a source with close connections to the Packers indicating, in so many words, that Nolan is the leading candidate and likely to be named soon as the new defensive coordinator.
You can read the Press-Gazette article here.
According to an article in the Green Bay Press Gazette, "Two NFL sources said Tuesday that coach Mike McCarthy appears likely to bring in Nolan to replace Bob Sanders, whose firing was announced Monday. One source said word at the Cactus Bowl, the all-star game for Division II seniors in Kingsville, Texas, is the move is all but done. Another said there appeared to be at least a 90 percent chance Nolan will join the Packers."
If Nolan is named as the coordinator, he will rejoin Packers head coach Mike McCarthy whom he hired as offensive coordinator with the 49ers.
Nolan has 11 years experience as an NFL defensive coordinator, which is obviously a plus. The Press-Gazette notes that, "As a head coach, Nolan had some problems with players on the offensive side of the ball, but as a defensive coordinator, he has a reputation for being a high-energy, optimistic leader whom players like."
This writer has also received information from a source with close connections to the Packers indicating, in so many words, that Nolan is the leading candidate and likely to be named soon as the new defensive coordinator.
You can read the Press-Gazette article here.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
A closer look at the Packers defensive coaching massacre
Were the Packers right to fire so many defensive coaches in one fell swoop, as happened over the last two days? According to a poll in today's online Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, 88% of more than 3,500 people responding so far give a resounding "Yes!".
But beyond that, what do we make of this? According to yet another great article by sports writer and Packers analyst Bob McGinn in the Journal-Sentinel, the purging of the defensive staff is of historic proportions. McGinn writes, "Other than a regime change involving an entire staff, the Packers have never witnessed anything like this from a sitting coach."
Given the massive bloodletting that went on -- McGinn's article recounts prior coaching purges over the decades -- there is a bit of a curious note to it all: neither head coach Mike McCarthy or GM Ted Thompson met with the press or even agreed to answer questions about the firings. The announcements came in the form of a news release only.
So far, none of the fired coaches has made any statements.
One of the facts to emerge is that there was apparently a split in the defensive coaching staff that started early in the season. McGinn reports, basically, that there was a faction on the same page with defensive coordinator Bob Sanders and another faction on board with linebackers coach/assistant head coach Winston Moss. Basically, Moss and some others didn't like the scheme Sanders was running.
Local Wisconsin sports radio and pundits have obviously been kicking this topic around since the news broke. One reporter made the comment that head coaches typically don't get more than 2 bad years in a row before they themselves are shown the door. The point was made that with this major house cleaning on the defensive side of the board, McCarthy will be pulling out all the stops to make sure this dismal season is not repeated because, as the reporter said, "the wolves will be at his door then."
Related to this, though, is the whole topic of personnel. Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers, was interviewed about the situation and made the point that by cleaning out most of the defensive coaches the new coordinator will be free to build his own team of assistants. That might also mean a change in scheme from 4-3 to 3-4. If so, Larrivee pointed out, that has personnel implications because players suited to the one scheme usually are not suited to the other. Larrivee offered the example of Corey Williams, who was arguably the key Packers defensive lineman in 2007. As we also know, he was traded to Cleveland after the season for a second round pick after the Pack had placed the franchise tag on him. Larrivee noted that Williams was great in the Packers 4-3 scheme, but his production was not the same this past season in Cleveland's 3-4 scheme. Interesting.
Whoever gets the defensive coordinator job will have a huge task ahead of them. They will need to assemble a staff, devise a scheme, and make sure the right players are in the right places to make it all click. If it falls flat, the head coach and a lot of others might also be putting their homes up for sale in and around Green Bay.
You can read McGinn's article here. Like all his articles, it's well worth the read.
Lots of coaches available
The good news for the Packers in this situation is that it's a buyer's market, so to speak. There are a lot of excellent, experienced coaches available. Among the names being floated, along with the un-fired Winston Moss, is former San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Nolan who was the defensive coordinator with Baltimore before heading west to become San Francisco's head coach. Nolan is also the guy who hired Mike McCarthy to be his offensive coordinator and then also allowed him to get interviewed for the Packers head coaching job a year later. Reports are that Nolan looks like the leading candidate for the job but there are no certainties of any kind at this point in the process and there may well be several factors working against Nolan, including cost.
Cost also factors in the discussion of a few other possible coordinators. Gregg Williams who was with Jacksonville and Washington over the last few years is in the mix, as is Eagles secondary coach Sean McDermott. Some reports indicate that McDermott could be a hot property given his long tenure under Eagles defensive guru Jim Johnson. But the Pack can't talk to him as he is still under contract with the Eagles and could only do so with the team's permission once Philly is done playing.
Former Detroit head coach Rod Marinelli is available, as is Jim Haslett. There are other possibilities as well. You can read more about all the candidates here.
But beyond that, what do we make of this? According to yet another great article by sports writer and Packers analyst Bob McGinn in the Journal-Sentinel, the purging of the defensive staff is of historic proportions. McGinn writes, "Other than a regime change involving an entire staff, the Packers have never witnessed anything like this from a sitting coach."
Given the massive bloodletting that went on -- McGinn's article recounts prior coaching purges over the decades -- there is a bit of a curious note to it all: neither head coach Mike McCarthy or GM Ted Thompson met with the press or even agreed to answer questions about the firings. The announcements came in the form of a news release only.
So far, none of the fired coaches has made any statements.
One of the facts to emerge is that there was apparently a split in the defensive coaching staff that started early in the season. McGinn reports, basically, that there was a faction on the same page with defensive coordinator Bob Sanders and another faction on board with linebackers coach/assistant head coach Winston Moss. Basically, Moss and some others didn't like the scheme Sanders was running.
Local Wisconsin sports radio and pundits have obviously been kicking this topic around since the news broke. One reporter made the comment that head coaches typically don't get more than 2 bad years in a row before they themselves are shown the door. The point was made that with this major house cleaning on the defensive side of the board, McCarthy will be pulling out all the stops to make sure this dismal season is not repeated because, as the reporter said, "the wolves will be at his door then."
Related to this, though, is the whole topic of personnel. Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers, was interviewed about the situation and made the point that by cleaning out most of the defensive coaches the new coordinator will be free to build his own team of assistants. That might also mean a change in scheme from 4-3 to 3-4. If so, Larrivee pointed out, that has personnel implications because players suited to the one scheme usually are not suited to the other. Larrivee offered the example of Corey Williams, who was arguably the key Packers defensive lineman in 2007. As we also know, he was traded to Cleveland after the season for a second round pick after the Pack had placed the franchise tag on him. Larrivee noted that Williams was great in the Packers 4-3 scheme, but his production was not the same this past season in Cleveland's 3-4 scheme. Interesting.
Whoever gets the defensive coordinator job will have a huge task ahead of them. They will need to assemble a staff, devise a scheme, and make sure the right players are in the right places to make it all click. If it falls flat, the head coach and a lot of others might also be putting their homes up for sale in and around Green Bay.
You can read McGinn's article here. Like all his articles, it's well worth the read.
Lots of coaches available
The good news for the Packers in this situation is that it's a buyer's market, so to speak. There are a lot of excellent, experienced coaches available. Among the names being floated, along with the un-fired Winston Moss, is former San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Nolan who was the defensive coordinator with Baltimore before heading west to become San Francisco's head coach. Nolan is also the guy who hired Mike McCarthy to be his offensive coordinator and then also allowed him to get interviewed for the Packers head coaching job a year later. Reports are that Nolan looks like the leading candidate for the job but there are no certainties of any kind at this point in the process and there may well be several factors working against Nolan, including cost.
Cost also factors in the discussion of a few other possible coordinators. Gregg Williams who was with Jacksonville and Washington over the last few years is in the mix, as is Eagles secondary coach Sean McDermott. Some reports indicate that McDermott could be a hot property given his long tenure under Eagles defensive guru Jim Johnson. But the Pack can't talk to him as he is still under contract with the Eagles and could only do so with the team's permission once Philly is done playing.
Former Detroit head coach Rod Marinelli is available, as is Jim Haslett. There are other possibilities as well. You can read more about all the candidates here.
Monday, January 05, 2009
Packers confirm defensive firings
In a news release issued by the Packers, they confirm the firings -- reported here and elsewhere earlier -- of the entire defensive coaching staff with the exceptions of assistant head coach/linebackers coach Winston Moss and quality control assistant Joe Whitt Jr. Also fired was strength and conditioning coach Rock Gullickson.
Head coach Mike McCarthy is quoted as saying, "These are difficult decisions. I hold each of these men in high regard on a personal level, and I want to thank them for their service to the Green Bay Packers."
Stay tuned for more as the story develops.
Head coach Mike McCarthy is quoted as saying, "These are difficult decisions. I hold each of these men in high regard on a personal level, and I want to thank them for their service to the Green Bay Packers."
Stay tuned for more as the story develops.
Reports: Sanders out as Packers defensive coordinator, along with most of the D-coaches
According to a breaking news item posted this morning on former Packers vice president of player finance Andrew Brandt's National Football Post website, "the entire Packers’ defensive coaching staff (with the exception of linebackers/assistant head coach Winston Moss) has just been fired." News broke on this same site yesterday that defensive coordinator Bob Sanders had been fired.
The Packers have not yet confirmed or announced any of these firings. (The dismissal of Sanders was expected and PackerFansUnited.com was one of the many places that said it would happen.)
Winston Moss is one of the likely candidates to assume the defensive coordinator position, and hence perhaps the reason why he was the exception to the rule in the firings. Moss was also interviewed for the vacant head coaching position in St. Louis but apparently is not scheduled for a second interview.
You can read the breaking news here. There is an article about the Sanders firing and possible replacements here.
We still await confirmations and announcements from the Packers on these matters.
Stay tuned.
The Packers have not yet confirmed or announced any of these firings. (The dismissal of Sanders was expected and PackerFansUnited.com was one of the many places that said it would happen.)
Winston Moss is one of the likely candidates to assume the defensive coordinator position, and hence perhaps the reason why he was the exception to the rule in the firings. Moss was also interviewed for the vacant head coaching position in St. Louis but apparently is not scheduled for a second interview.
You can read the breaking news here. There is an article about the Sanders firing and possible replacements here.
We still await confirmations and announcements from the Packers on these matters.
Stay tuned.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
How the 2008 Pack grades out
Each year, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel sports writer and Packers analyst, Bob McGinn, writes a post-season report card of each aspect of the Packers organization, from the GM and coaches right down to the individual members of the roster. It's always a fascinating read. Especially if you happen to be a stat geek. More numbers than you can shake a yardmarker at.
McGinn also has written an article which appears in the paper's print edition, but is only available online to the Packer Insider subscribers. So for those that aren't subscribers to the Insider or who can't get their hands on an actual newspaper, let me give you a few of the items of note from McGinn's article, entitled "GM stumbled, but aced most important step".
As you many gather from the headline, McGinn is talking primarily about the decision to trade Brett Favre and go with Aaron Rodgers as the team's starting quarterback. The opening paragraphs, sets the tone: "From a personnel standpoint, the first job for any executive atop a National Football League franchise is to secure the quarterback position.
"Ted Thompson has done that with Aaron Rodgers."
McGinn goes on to review Thompson's overall draft moves since at the helm of the Pack, as well as the general personnel strategy. We fans pretty well know the drill by now: continue trading higher draft picks for more draft picks later down in the draft, minimize free agent acquisitions, build from within. This is how the Packers wound up being the youngest team in the NFL for the third straight season. And the argument can be made that this is at least in part one of the reasons, along with key injuries and departures, that the Pack had a seven-game drop off -- the largest in the team's 90-year history -- from one season to the next.
McGinn takes a look at other teams that have had similar falls and goes on to say, "If history repeats itself, the Packers can expect to finish either 9-7 or 10-6 in 2009 and a have a 43% chance of winning the division and/or making the playoffs." Well, that's something to look forward to then.
About the draft specifically, McGinn suggests that Thompson stick with the nine picks we'll have in this year's draft (including the third-rounder we will get for the Favre trade). Further, that he focus on quality picks for a change instead of quantity. Although listening to Thompson's comments on the final Mike McCarthy Show of the season (see an earlier post here about that), it sure doesn't sound as if Thompson will change his modus operandi.
McGinn doesn't focus entirely on Thompson, though. He says that "when Thompson conducts his review, he can ill afford to let McCarthy off easily." He cites the plethora of penalties for the past two seasons, defensive schemes where players are out of position, a zone run game that is easy to prepare for (and which McCarthy asserts will continue to be used next season) and, as we know all too well this season, an inability to do what's needed from a coaching and player standpoint to finish out close games.
Under McCarthy, the Packers have been 8-8, 13-3 and 6-10. Not exactly a picture of consistency. One might reasonably expect (this writer's opinion, not McGinn's) that McCarthy will be on the clock, so to speak, next season. Ray Rhodes had one so-so season and was gone. Although in the end that was supposedly attributable more to a lack of discipline and organization than record. If McCarthy doesn't produce this next season...we'll see. It would help considerably if Thompson gave him an impact defensive lineman with the #9 overall pick in the draft. It will not be a good sign if he trades down out of that pick.
Thompson is rated among the 10 best GMs in the league according to McGinn, however that is calculated. So while we may never be happy with all his picks and personnel moves, McGinn concludes his article by noting that "Amazingly enough, quarterback in the post-Favre era is the least of the Packers' problems. Filling in the other parts of the puzzle should be easy by comparison."
Let's hope so.
If you want to read McGinn's team report card, you can check it out here.
McGinn also has written an article which appears in the paper's print edition, but is only available online to the Packer Insider subscribers. So for those that aren't subscribers to the Insider or who can't get their hands on an actual newspaper, let me give you a few of the items of note from McGinn's article, entitled "GM stumbled, but aced most important step".
As you many gather from the headline, McGinn is talking primarily about the decision to trade Brett Favre and go with Aaron Rodgers as the team's starting quarterback. The opening paragraphs, sets the tone: "From a personnel standpoint, the first job for any executive atop a National Football League franchise is to secure the quarterback position.
"Ted Thompson has done that with Aaron Rodgers."
McGinn goes on to review Thompson's overall draft moves since at the helm of the Pack, as well as the general personnel strategy. We fans pretty well know the drill by now: continue trading higher draft picks for more draft picks later down in the draft, minimize free agent acquisitions, build from within. This is how the Packers wound up being the youngest team in the NFL for the third straight season. And the argument can be made that this is at least in part one of the reasons, along with key injuries and departures, that the Pack had a seven-game drop off -- the largest in the team's 90-year history -- from one season to the next.
McGinn takes a look at other teams that have had similar falls and goes on to say, "If history repeats itself, the Packers can expect to finish either 9-7 or 10-6 in 2009 and a have a 43% chance of winning the division and/or making the playoffs." Well, that's something to look forward to then.
About the draft specifically, McGinn suggests that Thompson stick with the nine picks we'll have in this year's draft (including the third-rounder we will get for the Favre trade). Further, that he focus on quality picks for a change instead of quantity. Although listening to Thompson's comments on the final Mike McCarthy Show of the season (see an earlier post here about that), it sure doesn't sound as if Thompson will change his modus operandi.
McGinn doesn't focus entirely on Thompson, though. He says that "when Thompson conducts his review, he can ill afford to let McCarthy off easily." He cites the plethora of penalties for the past two seasons, defensive schemes where players are out of position, a zone run game that is easy to prepare for (and which McCarthy asserts will continue to be used next season) and, as we know all too well this season, an inability to do what's needed from a coaching and player standpoint to finish out close games.
Under McCarthy, the Packers have been 8-8, 13-3 and 6-10. Not exactly a picture of consistency. One might reasonably expect (this writer's opinion, not McGinn's) that McCarthy will be on the clock, so to speak, next season. Ray Rhodes had one so-so season and was gone. Although in the end that was supposedly attributable more to a lack of discipline and organization than record. If McCarthy doesn't produce this next season...we'll see. It would help considerably if Thompson gave him an impact defensive lineman with the #9 overall pick in the draft. It will not be a good sign if he trades down out of that pick.
Thompson is rated among the 10 best GMs in the league according to McGinn, however that is calculated. So while we may never be happy with all his picks and personnel moves, McGinn concludes his article by noting that "Amazingly enough, quarterback in the post-Favre era is the least of the Packers' problems. Filling in the other parts of the puzzle should be easy by comparison."
Let's hope so.
If you want to read McGinn's team report card, you can check it out here.
Saturday, January 03, 2009
ViQueens finally sell their tix
It wasn't easy for the ViQueens: convincing enough of their fans to sell out the HumpDome to avoid a local TV market blackout. Heck, the NFL had to give the team two time extensions to avoid the embarrassment.
But, they finally did it. Despite the fact that only about 55 percent of the 55,000 season-ticket holders bought playoff tickets -- and what does that tell you? geesh -- the 'Queens were finally able to get their sell out. Now the folks in and around Minneapolis will be able to see the 'Queens lose to the Eagles just like the rest of the country will.
If you care, you can read more about their grand accomplishment, here.
But, they finally did it. Despite the fact that only about 55 percent of the 55,000 season-ticket holders bought playoff tickets -- and what does that tell you? geesh -- the 'Queens were finally able to get their sell out. Now the folks in and around Minneapolis will be able to see the 'Queens lose to the Eagles just like the rest of the country will.
If you care, you can read more about their grand accomplishment, here.
ViQueens get another extension to sell-out tix
The 3:30 p.m. Friday deadline -- extension #1 from the NFL to avoid a local market TV blackout -- for the ViQueens came and went. They couldn't sell their remaining 8,000 tickets. Got rid of about 4,300, but still had 3,700 unsold. So, the NFL granted another extension, although it's not clear from reports exactly what the deadline now is.
The Arizona Cardinals, also granted an earlier extension, were able to sell their remaining seats and avoid a blackout for their game versus Atlanta.
If the 'Queens "fans" or some corporate folks don't step up to the plate (is that a mixed metaphor? baseball-football? never mind) by whatever the deadline is, it will apparently be only the second time that a NFL playoff game has been blacked out in the local market.
You'd think with all the big corporations in Minneapolis that at least one of them would ante up to avoid the franchise and civic embarrassment of the situation.
As I said in an earlier post of yesterday, it's just another reason the ViQueens don't deserve to be in the playoffs.
You can read more about all this ticket drama here.
The Arizona Cardinals, also granted an earlier extension, were able to sell their remaining seats and avoid a blackout for their game versus Atlanta.
If the 'Queens "fans" or some corporate folks don't step up to the plate (is that a mixed metaphor? baseball-football? never mind) by whatever the deadline is, it will apparently be only the second time that a NFL playoff game has been blacked out in the local market.
You'd think with all the big corporations in Minneapolis that at least one of them would ante up to avoid the franchise and civic embarrassment of the situation.
As I said in an earlier post of yesterday, it's just another reason the ViQueens don't deserve to be in the playoffs.
You can read more about all this ticket drama here.
Friday, January 02, 2009
Packers special teams coach retires
As predicted here and many other places, Mike Stock, the Packers special teams coach, will no longer be part of the staff next season. The only difference is that I and others thought he'd be fired after the pathetic play of the special teams this season. Instead, Stock announced his retirement. At age 69, and with 44 years of coaching experience, maybe it's better to retire than be fired. Or at least, give the public appearance that that's the case.
Here's Stock's statement through the Packers: "My passion for the game was strong through the very last contest, but in thinking further about the commitment needed for another season and discussing it with my family, ultimately I decided this was the best decision for us," Stock said. "I've been very fortunate throughout my life to play and coach a sport I love very much. I thank the Green Bay Packers for the opportunity to spend three wonderful years here. I'll miss the games, and I'll miss the people. But I look forward to spending more time with my wife, my three children and five grandchildren."
You can read more about Stock's retirement here.
That's one of the key coaching changes that needed to be made. No word yet on defensive coordinator Bob Sanders. Perhaps there's another "retirement" notice in the works.
Here's Stock's statement through the Packers: "My passion for the game was strong through the very last contest, but in thinking further about the commitment needed for another season and discussing it with my family, ultimately I decided this was the best decision for us," Stock said. "I've been very fortunate throughout my life to play and coach a sport I love very much. I thank the Green Bay Packers for the opportunity to spend three wonderful years here. I'll miss the games, and I'll miss the people. But I look forward to spending more time with my wife, my three children and five grandchildren."
You can read more about Stock's retirement here.
That's one of the key coaching changes that needed to be made. No word yet on defensive coordinator Bob Sanders. Perhaps there's another "retirement" notice in the works.
Here's another reason the ViQueens shouldn't be in the playoffs
Aside from the fact that the ViQueens squeaked into the playoffs as winners of the NFC North -- which wasn't exactly the best division in football this season, let's be honest -- and will get beat by Philly in the Wild Card round anyway, there's another reason Minnesota shouldn't be in the playoffs.
OK, agreed, the uniforms are a good enough reason on their own for them not to be allowed in the playoffs. But I'm talking about something else. The fans. Yep. I said it.
It's the first time the 'Queens have been back in the playoffs since 2004. That marked only their second time this century (doesn't that sound odd...like you're talking about the Cubs in the World Series or something). You would think the fans would be totally jacked about hosting a Wild Card game. Nope. As of noon yesterday -- which was supposedly the cut off time set by the NFL for selling out to avoid a local TV market blackout -- there were still 8,000 unsold tickets. Can you imagine? And it's not like these so-called "fans" even have to brave the January weather in Minneapolis: they get to sit inside the comfort of the HumpDome. What a bunch of wusses!
According to news reports this a.m., the league extended the deadline until 3;30 p.m. today for the team to avoid the TV blackout. Chances are some corporation will spring for the tickets. Or maybe owner Zygi Wilf (no, that is not random typing that is really a name) and his partners will open up their pockets to avoid the embarrassment of a fan base that basically is saying, "Who cares?". (And these guys deserve a new stadium? Please. You can't get them to sell out the one you've got!)
Now, would this happen anywhere else? Well, yeah. Arizona. That's understandable given the decades of futility for the Cardinals franchise. Fans apparently aren't expecting much in their game against Atlanta. But to be fair, the Cardinals only reported 3,700 tickets left unsold. They received an extension, too.
But back to the ViQueens. Any team's fans that don't support a team enough to sell out a playoff game doesn't deserve to win. Packers fans show up, sell out a stadium, in weather that would make a polar bear shiver, playoff game or not. ViQueens fans? Can't be bothered to show up to a playoff game inside a dome. Bud Grant must be rolling over in his...oh wait, he's not dead yet. OK...but you can bet he'd like to rip all those fair-weather fans a new one.
Go Philly!
OK, agreed, the uniforms are a good enough reason on their own for them not to be allowed in the playoffs. But I'm talking about something else. The fans. Yep. I said it.
It's the first time the 'Queens have been back in the playoffs since 2004. That marked only their second time this century (doesn't that sound odd...like you're talking about the Cubs in the World Series or something). You would think the fans would be totally jacked about hosting a Wild Card game. Nope. As of noon yesterday -- which was supposedly the cut off time set by the NFL for selling out to avoid a local TV market blackout -- there were still 8,000 unsold tickets. Can you imagine? And it's not like these so-called "fans" even have to brave the January weather in Minneapolis: they get to sit inside the comfort of the HumpDome. What a bunch of wusses!
According to news reports this a.m., the league extended the deadline until 3;30 p.m. today for the team to avoid the TV blackout. Chances are some corporation will spring for the tickets. Or maybe owner Zygi Wilf (no, that is not random typing that is really a name) and his partners will open up their pockets to avoid the embarrassment of a fan base that basically is saying, "Who cares?". (And these guys deserve a new stadium? Please. You can't get them to sell out the one you've got!)
Now, would this happen anywhere else? Well, yeah. Arizona. That's understandable given the decades of futility for the Cardinals franchise. Fans apparently aren't expecting much in their game against Atlanta. But to be fair, the Cardinals only reported 3,700 tickets left unsold. They received an extension, too.
But back to the ViQueens. Any team's fans that don't support a team enough to sell out a playoff game doesn't deserve to win. Packers fans show up, sell out a stadium, in weather that would make a polar bear shiver, playoff game or not. ViQueens fans? Can't be bothered to show up to a playoff game inside a dome. Bud Grant must be rolling over in his...oh wait, he's not dead yet. OK...but you can bet he'd like to rip all those fair-weather fans a new one.
Go Philly!
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Brett: this is why you should never have gone to NY
Ouch! As if it wasn't bad enough for Ol' #4 that he has been getting slammed by the New York media since the Jet's demise this last weekend, his so-called teammates are also letting it fly, so to speak.
You may recall hearing earlier this week that safety Kerry Rhodes basically called Brett out, saying that if he commits to playing with the Jets for next season, he better show that commitment. You know, doing the stuff Brett really didn't have to do his last few years in Green Bay. Things like working out with the team in the offseason, attending the mini-camps, and so on. About Favre, Rhodes said flatly, "But don't come back if it's going to be half-hearted or he doesn't want to put the time in with us."
I ask you: where's the love, man?
But it gets worse. Now, Jets RB Thomas Jones is criticizing Favre's performance in the final game. Jones said in so many words that Brett deserved to be benched because of his poor play. Jones is quoted in an article posted at ESPN's website as having told a New York radio station, "If somebody is not playing well, they need to come out of the game." He said much more than that, too.
The ESPN article also quotes an anonymous Jets player who spoke to Newsday and described Brett as a "distant" teammate. According to this player, when Brett was at the Jets' practice facility he spent his down time away from teammates in an office specially designated for him. "There was a lot of resentment in the room about him. He never socialized with us, never went to dinner with anyone," this player is quoted as telling Newsday.
Again, I ask: where's the love?
Apparently, not in New York.
If Brett thinks he'll have it better in New York next season after all this stuff is being said by his "teammates" he really needs to re-think that whole scenario.
I wonder if Brett sometimes might think that going out in a final career game -- in the NFC Championship Game -- is a heckuva lot better than not making the playoffs and then getting ripped by a bunch of guys who didn't care about you and who you didn't care about either.
Imagine what you had, Brett. Now look at what you've got. Is this really how you wanted it all to end?
Retire, Brett...like you should have done the first time around when you said you would last Spring. Come back home to Green Bay where you know you belong and where you will always get the love of the fans. In New York, as they say, fugetaboutit.
If you want to read the ESPN report, you can do so here.
You may recall hearing earlier this week that safety Kerry Rhodes basically called Brett out, saying that if he commits to playing with the Jets for next season, he better show that commitment. You know, doing the stuff Brett really didn't have to do his last few years in Green Bay. Things like working out with the team in the offseason, attending the mini-camps, and so on. About Favre, Rhodes said flatly, "But don't come back if it's going to be half-hearted or he doesn't want to put the time in with us."
I ask you: where's the love, man?
But it gets worse. Now, Jets RB Thomas Jones is criticizing Favre's performance in the final game. Jones said in so many words that Brett deserved to be benched because of his poor play. Jones is quoted in an article posted at ESPN's website as having told a New York radio station, "If somebody is not playing well, they need to come out of the game." He said much more than that, too.
The ESPN article also quotes an anonymous Jets player who spoke to Newsday and described Brett as a "distant" teammate. According to this player, when Brett was at the Jets' practice facility he spent his down time away from teammates in an office specially designated for him. "There was a lot of resentment in the room about him. He never socialized with us, never went to dinner with anyone," this player is quoted as telling Newsday.
Again, I ask: where's the love?
Apparently, not in New York.
If Brett thinks he'll have it better in New York next season after all this stuff is being said by his "teammates" he really needs to re-think that whole scenario.
I wonder if Brett sometimes might think that going out in a final career game -- in the NFC Championship Game -- is a heckuva lot better than not making the playoffs and then getting ripped by a bunch of guys who didn't care about you and who you didn't care about either.
Imagine what you had, Brett. Now look at what you've got. Is this really how you wanted it all to end?
Retire, Brett...like you should have done the first time around when you said you would last Spring. Come back home to Green Bay where you know you belong and where you will always get the love of the fans. In New York, as they say, fugetaboutit.
If you want to read the ESPN report, you can do so here.
McCarthy's year-end press conference
As the year 2008 wound down (thank God!), Packers head coach Mike McCarthy met with the media yesterday for his year-end press conference.
Here's a sampler of what he said:
There you have a few of the tidbits from McCarthy's 35-minute Q&A with reporters. You can read the full transcript here.
Have a Happy New Year, Packer fans!!!
Here's a sampler of what he said:
- It was a season that did not meet expectations (a-duh!)
- He isn't satisfied.
- Everything is open for review.
- He hasn't made any decisions yet on which coaches will be retained or released.
- He is absolutely certain that the Packers made the right call regarding "the quarterback position."
- They really do want to settle on a consistent starting five on the O-line.
- Jason Spitz will have the opportunity to compete with Scott Wells for the starting center job.
- The loss of DE Cullen Jenkins was a huge blow to the defense (a-duh #2).
- He does not accept "convenient" excuses for the team's performance and record, e.g., no blitzing, being the youngest team in the NFL for the third straight year, etc.
- They will continue to run the zone blocking scheme on offense.
There you have a few of the tidbits from McCarthy's 35-minute Q&A with reporters. You can read the full transcript here.
Have a Happy New Year, Packer fans!!!
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