As the Green Bay Packers sit at 7-4, with all four losses by 3 points, and looking up at Da Bearz atop the NFC North (as disgusting a thought as there can possibly be!), roster moves continue. It has been the theme of this season for the Packers.
What's the difference between Da Bearz and the Packers? Yes, I know, we can go a lot of ways with that answer, all of them rip-roaringly funny. But for our purposes today, the correct answer is: health.
The Packers yesterday added LB Brandon Chillar (shoulder) and TE/LB Spencer Havner (hamstring) to the injured reserve list, bringing the team's league-leading total to 13. The Packers' IR list is a squad in its own right. And if you look at the names on that list, it's a pretty good squad at that. Just imagine what the Pack could have done this season if even half of that list was actually on the field. Wow. Still, it's a testament to the personnel moves of GM Ted Thompson that the Packers have been able to field players who haven't led to a complete collapse. And credit the coaching staff with coaching those players, some street and undrafted free agents, in such a way that they are ready to play at a high level. Truly remarkable given the circumstances.
Today, the Pack promoted LB Robert Francois and CB Josh Gordy from the practice squad to take the roster spots of Chillar and Havner. This is Francois' second time this season on the active roster, while it is Gordy's first call-up. Their spots on the practice squad were taken by new signees WR Terrance Smith and LB/DE Curtis Young.
Tramon Williams gets a payday
News broke Tuesday that the Packers and CB Tramon Williams had signed a four-year contract extension that will keep Williams in Green Bay through 2014. Williams is one of those great success stories in the NFL. An undrafted player out of Louisiana Tech who was cut by Houston in 2006, Williams was signed to the Packers' practice squad. The rest, as they say, is history. Williams worked hard, apprenticed behind Al Harris, and earned his payoff by performing at a Pro Bowl level ever since replacing Harris last year as the starting cornerback opposite Charles Woodson. He has been very good.
But now that he's gotten his big payday -- reportedly worth more than $33 million over the life of the extension -- Williams will be expected to continue performing at a high level. And there are no signs that he won't. He is a well-liked and well-respected member not only of the Packers but the broader Green Bay community. And he also is a player who even his agent says wants to stay in Green Bay. Williams is a player and person it is easy to root for. Congratulations, Mr. Williams. Well done. Keep up the great work.
If you want to read more about Williams' new contract, you can do so here.
Starks to see action...maybe
According to head coach Mike McCarthy's comments earlier this week, the woeful status of the Packers' rushing attack (I know, that seems to be a real oxymoron at the moment) is apparently making him think seriously about giving rookie RB James Starks some action this weekend. No one knows quite what to expect as Starks hasn't played any football since 2008; he missed his entire senior season at Buffalo with injury. Running backs coach Edgar Bennett -- a darn good running back in his own day -- says he likes what he sees in the youngster in practice. But what happens when he takes his first game hit in a couple years? And his first NFL hit besides? No clue. But given that QB Aaron Rodgers was the leading rusher for the Packers in the game against the Falcons this last weekend, clearly a change is in order.
That change, however, honestly needs to start with McCarthy actually committing to the run -- something his history indicates isn't overly likely -- and the offensive line opening some holes for whomever is carrying the ball. But the inability of Brandon Jackson to consistently perform and the total disappearance over the last two games of John Kuhn (although it's not clear why he hasn't factored into McCarthy's schemes recently), mean it's time to shake things up. Let's see what Starks can do. Maybe the Packers catch lightening in a bottle. That would be a surprise, granted. And the way this season has gone, it's probably more likely Starks also will wind up getting hurt and going on IR.
But let's be optimistic. At least until we see what we've got.
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Packers fall to Falcons 20-17
This was literally a situation of whoever had the ball last would win the game. Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers directed a final drive to tie the game at 17-17. But Atlanta got the ball back with under a minute left and, courtesy of a facemask penalty on the kickoff return, started at mid-field.
As TV commentators are saying, the one-dimensionality of the Packers' offense -- i.e., no rushing game by the Pack -- is showing up big time in a game like this, and was the difference today between these two teams. One could run the ball, the other couldn't. I don't have to tell you which is which.
Add in the inability of the Packers' special teams to do something big when it mattered most, with time running out. Instead, they gave up a big return and then added another 15 yards with a stupid penalty to allow a short amount of yardage needed for a winning field goal. (Sigh)
A turnover at the goal line by Aaron Rodgers meant two trips inside the 10-yard line with only 3 points to show for it. Killer.
Missed opportunities. As with the 3 other losses this season, that's the theme of today's game.
The Packers go to 7-4 and need Philadelphia to beat Chicago in the second game today.
As TV commentators are saying, the one-dimensionality of the Packers' offense -- i.e., no rushing game by the Pack -- is showing up big time in a game like this, and was the difference today between these two teams. One could run the ball, the other couldn't. I don't have to tell you which is which.
Add in the inability of the Packers' special teams to do something big when it mattered most, with time running out. Instead, they gave up a big return and then added another 15 yards with a stupid penalty to allow a short amount of yardage needed for a winning field goal. (Sigh)
A turnover at the goal line by Aaron Rodgers meant two trips inside the 10-yard line with only 3 points to show for it. Killer.
Missed opportunities. As with the 3 other losses this season, that's the theme of today's game.
The Packers go to 7-4 and need Philadelphia to beat Chicago in the second game today.
Packers 3 - Falcons 10 at halftime
The first half of the Green Bay Packers - Atlanta Falcons game played out somewhat as expected: a battle of very good teams, but with a few glitches on both sides. For the Falcons, those glitches were penalties. For the Packers, those glitches were missed opportunities, including failure to challenge a 4th down pass reception by Tony Gonzales on the go-ahead TD drive by the Falcons.
The biggest missed opportunity, though, was a fumble on a quarterback sneak by Aaron Rodgers in the endzone, where the Pack would have gone up 10-3. Instead, the Falcons took the ball at the 20 and put together that 80-yard drive (incl. the non-catch catch on 4th down) to convert their own TD on a blown 3rd-and-goal coverage on TE Tony Gonzales. The Falcons are up 10-3 at halftime.
As Howie Long is saying during halftime comments on Fox, the failure of the Packers to challenge a bad spot on a 3rd down slide by Aaron Rodgers and then the non-catch by Gonzales account for 11 points in this game.
The Packers have to get it going at a higher level than they are now. There will be no help from the refs on spots. The team is playing sharp, just not sharp enough to overcome any mistakes against a team like the Falcons. Gotta kick it up a notch!
Go Pack Go!!!
The biggest missed opportunity, though, was a fumble on a quarterback sneak by Aaron Rodgers in the endzone, where the Pack would have gone up 10-3. Instead, the Falcons took the ball at the 20 and put together that 80-yard drive (incl. the non-catch catch on 4th down) to convert their own TD on a blown 3rd-and-goal coverage on TE Tony Gonzales. The Falcons are up 10-3 at halftime.
As Howie Long is saying during halftime comments on Fox, the failure of the Packers to challenge a bad spot on a 3rd down slide by Aaron Rodgers and then the non-catch by Gonzales account for 11 points in this game.
The Packers have to get it going at a higher level than they are now. There will be no help from the refs on spots. The team is playing sharp, just not sharp enough to overcome any mistakes against a team like the Falcons. Gotta kick it up a notch!
Go Pack Go!!!
Packers vs. Falcons Preview
Happy Dirty Birds Day to you, Packer fans! No, I'm not referring to the recent day on which you dropped turkey on the kitchen floor after carving, tossed it back on the plate, and then served it to your relatives. I'm talking about today's game in Atlanta between our Green Bay Packers and the Falcons.
The Falcons are coming into the game with a NFC-leading 8-2 record, with the Pack at 7-3. Atlanta is favored by 2 points.
The Birds fly high in their dome. They are 18-3 at home over the last three seasons. This team is not like the last two teams the Pack has faced. They are good and they won't quit on their coach the way those teams did. Statistically (you can look elsewhere today for that info if you are a stat geek), the Packers and Falcons are fairly close in many areas. However, the Packers have an overall better defense, particularly in the secondary. That is an area that will need to execute well today, as they have been doing, for the Packers to come out on top. WR Roddy White leads the league in receptions, if memory serves, and is up there in reception yards as well, not surprisingly. Expect the Packers to likely have CB Tramon Williams on White most of the time, although they may shift Williams and Charles Woodson around as needed so that rookie safety Sam Shields isn't stuck on an island against White.
The Falcons also have veteran TE Tony Gonzalez as a receiving threat and RB Michael Turner as the featured rusher. Gonzalez is still dangerous, despite perhaps losing a step, and Turner is quick and powerful and can move the chains and eat clock. The Packers' defensive line has handled running backs all season long and I expect them to bottle up Turner today as well; he may get some yards, but as long as they don't allow him to break long runs or get 5+ yards per carry, it will be OK. QB Matt Ryan is similar to the Packers' own Aaron Rodgers: cerebral, strong arm, and generally won't make mistakes.
So, if the Packers' defense can continue to do what they have been doing, and special teams holds its own, it comes down to the offense executing its game plan. The Packers have more weapons in the receiving game and they are going against a 24th-ranked passing defense. So if the offensive line gives Rodgers time and he's on his game, the Pack have the advantage. But expect a closer game than we've seen recently.
This is a game which will tell us a great deal about how good the Packers really are. As fans, we are all beginning to think they are very good. A win in Atlanta today will reinforce that perception. More importantly, though, it will also go a long way to helping determine homefield advantage in the playoffs. If the Pack plucks this one away from the Falcons, things are looking rosy.*
I'm calling this one 27-24 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
* Rosy reference: Have to give a shout out to the University of Wisconsin Badgers who finished their regular season yesterday with a 70-23 beat down of the Northwestern Wildcats at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison. The currently 7th-ranked Badgers share the Big Ten championship title, and should receive the bid for the Rose Bowl. Go Badgers!
The Falcons are coming into the game with a NFC-leading 8-2 record, with the Pack at 7-3. Atlanta is favored by 2 points.
The Birds fly high in their dome. They are 18-3 at home over the last three seasons. This team is not like the last two teams the Pack has faced. They are good and they won't quit on their coach the way those teams did. Statistically (you can look elsewhere today for that info if you are a stat geek), the Packers and Falcons are fairly close in many areas. However, the Packers have an overall better defense, particularly in the secondary. That is an area that will need to execute well today, as they have been doing, for the Packers to come out on top. WR Roddy White leads the league in receptions, if memory serves, and is up there in reception yards as well, not surprisingly. Expect the Packers to likely have CB Tramon Williams on White most of the time, although they may shift Williams and Charles Woodson around as needed so that rookie safety Sam Shields isn't stuck on an island against White.
The Falcons also have veteran TE Tony Gonzalez as a receiving threat and RB Michael Turner as the featured rusher. Gonzalez is still dangerous, despite perhaps losing a step, and Turner is quick and powerful and can move the chains and eat clock. The Packers' defensive line has handled running backs all season long and I expect them to bottle up Turner today as well; he may get some yards, but as long as they don't allow him to break long runs or get 5+ yards per carry, it will be OK. QB Matt Ryan is similar to the Packers' own Aaron Rodgers: cerebral, strong arm, and generally won't make mistakes.
So, if the Packers' defense can continue to do what they have been doing, and special teams holds its own, it comes down to the offense executing its game plan. The Packers have more weapons in the receiving game and they are going against a 24th-ranked passing defense. So if the offensive line gives Rodgers time and he's on his game, the Pack have the advantage. But expect a closer game than we've seen recently.
This is a game which will tell us a great deal about how good the Packers really are. As fans, we are all beginning to think they are very good. A win in Atlanta today will reinforce that perception. More importantly, though, it will also go a long way to helping determine homefield advantage in the playoffs. If the Pack plucks this one away from the Falcons, things are looking rosy.*
I'm calling this one 27-24 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
* Rosy reference: Have to give a shout out to the University of Wisconsin Badgers who finished their regular season yesterday with a 70-23 beat down of the Northwestern Wildcats at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison. The currently 7th-ranked Badgers share the Big Ten championship title, and should receive the bid for the Rose Bowl. Go Badgers!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Packers - Vikings post-mortem: nice!
Green Bay Packers 31...Minnesota Vikings 3.
Stick a fork in 'em, Danno...the 'Queens are done.
What a tremendous victory for the Pack in the Humpty Dump. A place that had often been a house of horrors for the Green 'n' Gold instead became exactly that for the guys in the funky purple. Aside from the final score and total domination by the Packers from the 2nd quarter on, the other key indicator to revel in was the passer ratings: Rodgers 141+, Favre 51.2.
Yes, it was a nice game. Is that too understated? Well, let's see. Wasn't it nice that coach Mike McCarthy deferred after winning the coin toss and let his defense set the tone with a 3-and-out series against Favre and his offense? Wasn't it nice not to hear that stupid Viking horn blaring for no apparent reason? Wasn't it nice to hear the home fans chanting, "Fire Childress" in the 4th quarter? Wasn't it nice to hear Packers fans -- the best in the universe! -- chanting, "Go Pack Go" as score after score was tallied up? Wasn't it nice to see QB Aaron Rodgers and WR Greg Jennings light up the 'Queens secondary? Wasn't it nice to see the Packers defense totally shut down Minnesota's weapons and make Ol' #4 look like the grampa he is? Wasn't it nice to see the Packers special teams act somewhat special? Wasn't it nice to see 'Queens' players and coaches going at one another on the sideline? The list could go on and on. Yep, I'd say it was a very nice game indeed.
So, the Pack go to 7-3 on the season, tied with five teams for the second best record in the NFC. We share the division lead with Da Bearz. And we travel to Atlanta to take on the 8-2 Falcons on Sunday. That will be a challenging game, and more on that as actual game time nears.
But let's just look at where the Packers are right now. Their season point differential is plus-106, 36 points more than the next closest team, the Steelers. During this current four-game winning streak (which Atlanta also has going into the upcoming game), they have been penalized only eight times for 60 yards. And in the turnover margin, the Packers are ahead in that part of the game as well. Finally, in the last three games, the Packers have outscored their opponents 85-10. Holy blowout, Batman!
The offense is rolling. The defense is controlling. Special teams are trolling. (Sorry, got into a goofy rhyming thing there...my bad...)
The Packers are putting the pedal to the metal, and they're driving to the playoffs. Might still be a few speed bumps on the way. But, man, ya gotta like it. Ya gotta like it.
Go Pack Go!!!
Stick a fork in 'em, Danno...the 'Queens are done.
What a tremendous victory for the Pack in the Humpty Dump. A place that had often been a house of horrors for the Green 'n' Gold instead became exactly that for the guys in the funky purple. Aside from the final score and total domination by the Packers from the 2nd quarter on, the other key indicator to revel in was the passer ratings: Rodgers 141+, Favre 51.2.
Yes, it was a nice game. Is that too understated? Well, let's see. Wasn't it nice that coach Mike McCarthy deferred after winning the coin toss and let his defense set the tone with a 3-and-out series against Favre and his offense? Wasn't it nice not to hear that stupid Viking horn blaring for no apparent reason? Wasn't it nice to hear the home fans chanting, "Fire Childress" in the 4th quarter? Wasn't it nice to hear Packers fans -- the best in the universe! -- chanting, "Go Pack Go" as score after score was tallied up? Wasn't it nice to see QB Aaron Rodgers and WR Greg Jennings light up the 'Queens secondary? Wasn't it nice to see the Packers defense totally shut down Minnesota's weapons and make Ol' #4 look like the grampa he is? Wasn't it nice to see the Packers special teams act somewhat special? Wasn't it nice to see 'Queens' players and coaches going at one another on the sideline? The list could go on and on. Yep, I'd say it was a very nice game indeed.
So, the Pack go to 7-3 on the season, tied with five teams for the second best record in the NFC. We share the division lead with Da Bearz. And we travel to Atlanta to take on the 8-2 Falcons on Sunday. That will be a challenging game, and more on that as actual game time nears.
But let's just look at where the Packers are right now. Their season point differential is plus-106, 36 points more than the next closest team, the Steelers. During this current four-game winning streak (which Atlanta also has going into the upcoming game), they have been penalized only eight times for 60 yards. And in the turnover margin, the Packers are ahead in that part of the game as well. Finally, in the last three games, the Packers have outscored their opponents 85-10. Holy blowout, Batman!
The offense is rolling. The defense is controlling. Special teams are trolling. (Sorry, got into a goofy rhyming thing there...my bad...)
The Packers are putting the pedal to the metal, and they're driving to the playoffs. Might still be a few speed bumps on the way. But, man, ya gotta like it. Ya gotta like it.
Go Pack Go!!!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Packers vs. Vikings Preview
Favremageddon 2010 - Part Deux is upon us. The Tempest in the Twin Cities. The Oh-The-Humanity in the Humpty Dump. The Overused Hyperbole in...well...
OK, you get the idea. The Green Bay Packers meet the Minnesota Vikings in the second of their two 2010 showdowns. Round #1 went in favor of the Pack. Round #2? That should also go in favor of the Packers, and the line seems to reflect that: the Pack is favored by 3 despite the game being played on the 'Queens home field where they are very good and the Packers usually aren't.
But we all know that these games in the Humpty Dump are never easy. It is one of the loudest venues in all of sports. It is made even louder this time around with all the Minnesota fans shouting for the firing of head coach Brad Childress. But that's a whole other story. The key thing for the Packers will be to get up early and take the crowd out of it. If you are the Packers, you want them booing their own team not creating signal calling problems for you.
Coming out of the bye week, and with time to re-gear and build upon the momentum and offensive rhythm established over the last three games, the offense should click. The defense, with Cullen Jenkins working without the club on his broken hand for the first time since the first game, and the possibility of Ryan Picket returning in even limited play, should pick right up where it left off. Contain RB Adrian Peterson and pressure Ol' #4. The Packers' opportunistic defense should be able to generate a couple turnovers and in a close game that can be the difference. The 'Queens got some good news today, however, when WR Sidney Rice was activated off the PUP list. How much action he'll see, and how in sync he'll be with his quarterback, is a big question.
As for special teams, the Packers will have cornerback and speedster Sam Shields returning kickoffs. He opened eyes with a big return against the Cowboys. Coaches have decided that, until fumbles prove otherwise, he creates more problems for opponents that he does for the Packers. Expect the usual suspects back to return punts. On special teams, look also for the return of TE/LB Spencer Havner to the mix. He was a great special teams player in his prior time with the Packers and one would expect more of the same now that he's back in the fold. Throw in the bonus of his rapport as a tight end with QB Aaron Rodgers in the red zone and the Packers have yet another receiving threat for the 'Queens to worry about.
This will be Brett Favre's Super Bowl: his chance to win one last time against his former team before calling it quits. You know he's going to do all he can to stick a fork into GM Ted Thompson one last time. But there should be no doubt that the Packers are the better team. And by the end of the game, the score will reflect that.
I'm calling it Packers 31 - Vikings 24.
Go Pack Go!!!
OK, you get the idea. The Green Bay Packers meet the Minnesota Vikings in the second of their two 2010 showdowns. Round #1 went in favor of the Pack. Round #2? That should also go in favor of the Packers, and the line seems to reflect that: the Pack is favored by 3 despite the game being played on the 'Queens home field where they are very good and the Packers usually aren't.
But we all know that these games in the Humpty Dump are never easy. It is one of the loudest venues in all of sports. It is made even louder this time around with all the Minnesota fans shouting for the firing of head coach Brad Childress. But that's a whole other story. The key thing for the Packers will be to get up early and take the crowd out of it. If you are the Packers, you want them booing their own team not creating signal calling problems for you.
Coming out of the bye week, and with time to re-gear and build upon the momentum and offensive rhythm established over the last three games, the offense should click. The defense, with Cullen Jenkins working without the club on his broken hand for the first time since the first game, and the possibility of Ryan Picket returning in even limited play, should pick right up where it left off. Contain RB Adrian Peterson and pressure Ol' #4. The Packers' opportunistic defense should be able to generate a couple turnovers and in a close game that can be the difference. The 'Queens got some good news today, however, when WR Sidney Rice was activated off the PUP list. How much action he'll see, and how in sync he'll be with his quarterback, is a big question.
As for special teams, the Packers will have cornerback and speedster Sam Shields returning kickoffs. He opened eyes with a big return against the Cowboys. Coaches have decided that, until fumbles prove otherwise, he creates more problems for opponents that he does for the Packers. Expect the usual suspects back to return punts. On special teams, look also for the return of TE/LB Spencer Havner to the mix. He was a great special teams player in his prior time with the Packers and one would expect more of the same now that he's back in the fold. Throw in the bonus of his rapport as a tight end with QB Aaron Rodgers in the red zone and the Packers have yet another receiving threat for the 'Queens to worry about.
This will be Brett Favre's Super Bowl: his chance to win one last time against his former team before calling it quits. You know he's going to do all he can to stick a fork into GM Ted Thompson one last time. But there should be no doubt that the Packers are the better team. And by the end of the game, the score will reflect that.
I'm calling it Packers 31 - Vikings 24.
Go Pack Go!!!
In the spirit of the season...
In keeping with the spirit of the holiday season and its rampant commercialism, we decided to jump onboard and sell out like everyone else. So, from today (Nov. 20) through Nov. 23, you can save $10 on orders of $50 or more at the Packer Fans United online shop. Just use code Friend10 at checkout. You will find all sorts of great apparel and gift items. Caps, t-shirts, sweatshirts, stuff for the ladies, stuff for the kids...stuff for everyone! Let the good times roll, Packer fans! Grab some cool stuff for yourself, pick up some gifts for your buddies and save some green to boot. It's what made America great, my friends. Time to start stimulatin' the economy!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Friday before Favre's Super Bowl
No, we aren't doing a flash back to the late 1990's. We're talking this upcoming Sunday, when Ol' #4 himself might have his own personal Super Bowl against the Green Bay Packers. Because this might, maybe, perhaps, who knows?, be the last time Brett Favre suits up against his old team. And with one loss already under his belt against the Pack this season, you know he's really gonna want to stick it to Packers GM Ted Thompson just one more time before riding off into the sunset on his lawnmower.
This, of course, despite the fact that Favre is surrounded by perhaps the most dysfunctional team in football this season. The Drama 'Queens have given a whole new meaning to the expression "They eat their own." When players do not respect their head coach -- as various comments out of the ViQueens' locker room over the past few weeks clearly suggest -- anything can happen. Yes, these are professional athletes who play for their own pride, if nothing else. But even these days, that sometimes isn't enough to get the most out of players.
Take, for example, the case of WR Sidney Rice. By many reports it seems as if he is capable of returning to the field from his hip injury. Yet, there are also reports -- or, at least, speculation -- that with a free agent year on the horizon, Rice is in no hurry to get back on the field for a 3-6 team that is as much of a mess as this one is. Why risk injury again and jeopardize a potentially huge free agent payday?
So, with arguably the 'Queens best receiver likely not playing on Sunday, and the other receivers also nursing some injuries, Ol' #4 just doesn't have the downfield targets he has been accustomed to. He does have a good tight end in Visanthe Shiancoe who has become a favorite. And, of course, he does have that running back...what's his name? Ah, yes, Adrian Peterson.
So, Favre's Super Bowl? Think he'll come up just a bit short of the mark. You know, like in the last two big games he's played that would get him there. The Pack is favored by 3 right now. Past history says this game will be a close one. Hope it's not. And the directions the two teams are going in indicates that it shouldn't be.
We'll do a a bit more of a preview later. But for now, just wanted to get back into the blogging game. The Packers took a bye week and I did too. Sometimes we all need a break.
Sales underway in the Packer Fans United online shop!
In a move of blatant commercialism, we wished to call your attention to the sales currently underway at the Packer Fans United online shop. Today, Friday, you can take $5 off orders of $45 or more by using code PRETG5 at checkout. And running from tomorrow, Nov. 20, through Nov. 23, you can save $10 on orders of $50+. Just use code Friend10 at checkout. You will find all sorts of great apparel and gift items. With the holidays coming up, stock up now and save some bucks in the process!
This, of course, despite the fact that Favre is surrounded by perhaps the most dysfunctional team in football this season. The Drama 'Queens have given a whole new meaning to the expression "They eat their own." When players do not respect their head coach -- as various comments out of the ViQueens' locker room over the past few weeks clearly suggest -- anything can happen. Yes, these are professional athletes who play for their own pride, if nothing else. But even these days, that sometimes isn't enough to get the most out of players.
Take, for example, the case of WR Sidney Rice. By many reports it seems as if he is capable of returning to the field from his hip injury. Yet, there are also reports -- or, at least, speculation -- that with a free agent year on the horizon, Rice is in no hurry to get back on the field for a 3-6 team that is as much of a mess as this one is. Why risk injury again and jeopardize a potentially huge free agent payday?
So, with arguably the 'Queens best receiver likely not playing on Sunday, and the other receivers also nursing some injuries, Ol' #4 just doesn't have the downfield targets he has been accustomed to. He does have a good tight end in Visanthe Shiancoe who has become a favorite. And, of course, he does have that running back...what's his name? Ah, yes, Adrian Peterson.
So, Favre's Super Bowl? Think he'll come up just a bit short of the mark. You know, like in the last two big games he's played that would get him there. The Pack is favored by 3 right now. Past history says this game will be a close one. Hope it's not. And the directions the two teams are going in indicates that it shouldn't be.
We'll do a a bit more of a preview later. But for now, just wanted to get back into the blogging game. The Packers took a bye week and I did too. Sometimes we all need a break.
Sales underway in the Packer Fans United online shop!
In a move of blatant commercialism, we wished to call your attention to the sales currently underway at the Packer Fans United online shop. Today, Friday, you can take $5 off orders of $45 or more by using code PRETG5 at checkout. And running from tomorrow, Nov. 20, through Nov. 23, you can save $10 on orders of $50+. Just use code Friend10 at checkout. You will find all sorts of great apparel and gift items. With the holidays coming up, stock up now and save some bucks in the process!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Tauscher on IR, Havner re-signed
Given the outstanding play of rookie offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga, the Green Bay Packers have opted to place veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher on the injured reserve list for the remainder of the season. Out since sustaining a shoulder injury in week #4 against the Lions, this move not only ends Tauscher's season but perhaps also his career...at least with the Pack.
Tauscher is an 11-year veteran, with all his career spent with his home state Packers. But at age 33, and with several severe injuries already under his belt, plus a scheduled $4.1 million salary set to kick in next season, it would seem doubtful the Packers would bring him back at that price.
Last year, Tauscher had his second reconstructive knee surgery before finally being re-signed and helping turn around an offensive line that looked more like a sieve in his absence. This season, though, even before the shoulder injury, it sometimes seemed as if the years might finally be catching up with this sure-fire future Packers Hall of Fame member. We'll have to see how things play out in the off-season. But whichever way the cards fall, we have to thank Mark Tauscher for being a true Packer for so long and so well, and wish him the very best in the future.
The other news of the day was that the Packers re-signed TE/LB Spencer Havner. This was rumored to be a strong possibility and was, actually, projected here and many other places. No big surprise, really. When the Packers tight end corps thinned greatly, it was likely that management started to regret their decision at final cut-down to release the reliable Havner. The kid could not only catch passes -- he was a red zone touch down machine last season -- but could also fill in on the defense and play special teams. It didn't make sense to many fans when he was released. Havner was picked up by the Lions but sustained a hamstring injury in mid-October and was waived. The Pack, thankfully, picked him up. Good to have Havner back in the fold.
Tauscher is an 11-year veteran, with all his career spent with his home state Packers. But at age 33, and with several severe injuries already under his belt, plus a scheduled $4.1 million salary set to kick in next season, it would seem doubtful the Packers would bring him back at that price.
Last year, Tauscher had his second reconstructive knee surgery before finally being re-signed and helping turn around an offensive line that looked more like a sieve in his absence. This season, though, even before the shoulder injury, it sometimes seemed as if the years might finally be catching up with this sure-fire future Packers Hall of Fame member. We'll have to see how things play out in the off-season. But whichever way the cards fall, we have to thank Mark Tauscher for being a true Packer for so long and so well, and wish him the very best in the future.
The other news of the day was that the Packers re-signed TE/LB Spencer Havner. This was rumored to be a strong possibility and was, actually, projected here and many other places. No big surprise, really. When the Packers tight end corps thinned greatly, it was likely that management started to regret their decision at final cut-down to release the reliable Havner. The kid could not only catch passes -- he was a red zone touch down machine last season -- but could also fill in on the defense and play special teams. It didn't make sense to many fans when he was released. Havner was picked up by the Lions but sustained a hamstring injury in mid-October and was waived. The Pack, thankfully, picked him up. Good to have Havner back in the fold.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Who ya got? Da Bearz or ViQueens?
One of the joys of this particular bye week for fans of the Green Bay Packers is that the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings play each other this Sunday. And while it's not as joyous as it could be if there were actually a way to have both teams lose, we can still be thankful for a couple things. First, one team will lose. Secondly, both teams will get beat up.
My friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan, asked me today who I was rooting for. I told him I'd have to agree with the radio voice of the Packers who said on Monday that he believes the 'Queens have the most talent on paper in the NFC North (despite their record). Thus, Wayne Larrivee said, the Pack really has more to fear from Minnesota than Da Bearz, who he sees falling apart as the season goes on. Seems a reasonable argument.
So, on this given Sunday, yours truly will be rooting for Da Bearz to beat the 'Queens. Yes, this will keep Chicago in the running with the Pack, at least for another week. But it will put more distance between the Packers and Minnesota, which, if you believe Larrivee, is the greater challenger for the division title. And if Chicago can help send the 'Queens broken and battered into the game with the Pack the following week, all the better.
For those reasons, a victory by Da Bearz is on my wish list for this weekend.
How do you feel about it? Are you rooting for Chicago or Minnesota this weekend? Tell us by voting in the poll in the righthand column.
My friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan, asked me today who I was rooting for. I told him I'd have to agree with the radio voice of the Packers who said on Monday that he believes the 'Queens have the most talent on paper in the NFC North (despite their record). Thus, Wayne Larrivee said, the Pack really has more to fear from Minnesota than Da Bearz, who he sees falling apart as the season goes on. Seems a reasonable argument.
So, on this given Sunday, yours truly will be rooting for Da Bearz to beat the 'Queens. Yes, this will keep Chicago in the running with the Pack, at least for another week. But it will put more distance between the Packers and Minnesota, which, if you believe Larrivee, is the greater challenger for the division title. And if Chicago can help send the 'Queens broken and battered into the game with the Pack the following week, all the better.
For those reasons, a victory by Da Bearz is on my wish list for this weekend.
How do you feel about it? Are you rooting for Chicago or Minnesota this weekend? Tell us by voting in the poll in the righthand column.
Monday, November 08, 2010
Packers release CB Al Harris
Today was the decision day for the Green Bay Packers as to what to do with veteran cornerback Al Harris: activate him, put him on IR for the rest of the season, or release him. The Pack went with door #3: they released the veteran who had been with the team since being acquired from Philadelphia in 2003.
Harris suffered a severe knee injury last season and has been rehabbing it ever since in the hope of rejoining the team. Despite being hit by injuries throughout the team, including the defensive backfield, it appears that Packers' management felt going with younger players who have played beyond expectations to this point -- including undrafted rookie CB Sam Shields who has performed very well as the nickel back -- was preferrable to a 35-year-old player attempting a return after what is often a career-ending injury. The decision was obviously also made easier by the fact that Tramon Williams has really raised his level of play and become a very good cornerback for the Packers. The Pack will want to lock him in long-term. Salary implications and roster spots obviously become part of the equation in making the decision the Packers had to make. So does the variable about whether players have more good years ahead of them or less. Yes, Virginia, it's a business. And sometimes it can be that fundamental.
Harris started every game in which he played for the Packers from 2003-09, 102 in all. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2007 and 2008 and earned second-team All Pro honors in 2007. In 2004, Harris set the Packers' single-season record of passes defenses with 28. During his time with the Pack, Harris had 14 interceptions -- including some very memorable ones...right, Matt Hasselbeck? -- and 108 passes defensed. Harris may not have been the fastest cornerback in the league, but he always seemed to have a knack for being around the ball and making big plays.
The downside for the Packers, other than saying goodbye to a valued veteran, is that Harris can be picked up by any team. Hmmm...which team in the NFC, in the NFC North to be exact, winds up scrounging Packers' castoffs? Oh yeah...it tends to be those guys in the funky purple uniforms, doesn't it? Don't be surprised if that's where Harris lands.
But, regardless, our best wishes to Al Harris. Thanks for all your great play on behalf of the Packers. As the statement from GM Ted Thompson said, "We wish him the very best in the future and he will always be a part of the Packer family."
Harris suffered a severe knee injury last season and has been rehabbing it ever since in the hope of rejoining the team. Despite being hit by injuries throughout the team, including the defensive backfield, it appears that Packers' management felt going with younger players who have played beyond expectations to this point -- including undrafted rookie CB Sam Shields who has performed very well as the nickel back -- was preferrable to a 35-year-old player attempting a return after what is often a career-ending injury. The decision was obviously also made easier by the fact that Tramon Williams has really raised his level of play and become a very good cornerback for the Packers. The Pack will want to lock him in long-term. Salary implications and roster spots obviously become part of the equation in making the decision the Packers had to make. So does the variable about whether players have more good years ahead of them or less. Yes, Virginia, it's a business. And sometimes it can be that fundamental.
Harris started every game in which he played for the Packers from 2003-09, 102 in all. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2007 and 2008 and earned second-team All Pro honors in 2007. In 2004, Harris set the Packers' single-season record of passes defenses with 28. During his time with the Pack, Harris had 14 interceptions -- including some very memorable ones...right, Matt Hasselbeck? -- and 108 passes defensed. Harris may not have been the fastest cornerback in the league, but he always seemed to have a knack for being around the ball and making big plays.
The downside for the Packers, other than saying goodbye to a valued veteran, is that Harris can be picked up by any team. Hmmm...which team in the NFC, in the NFC North to be exact, winds up scrounging Packers' castoffs? Oh yeah...it tends to be those guys in the funky purple uniforms, doesn't it? Don't be surprised if that's where Harris lands.
But, regardless, our best wishes to Al Harris. Thanks for all your great play on behalf of the Packers. As the statement from GM Ted Thompson said, "We wish him the very best in the future and he will always be a part of the Packer family."
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Packers whoop Cowboys 45-7
As the TV announcers were quick to point out, this game was an embarrassment for the Cowboys. Conversely, it was perhaps the most complete game of the season for the Green Bay Packers. At 45-7, you'd sure think so.
But let's just savor this one for tonight. There's plenty of time to review the details in the days ahead.
So, enjoy, Packer fans! The Packers are 6-3 atop the NFC North going into the bye week.
It's great to be a Packer fan. Especially when you put a hurt on the 'boys from Big D like the Pack did tonight. "America's Team" ... yeah, right.
But let's just savor this one for tonight. There's plenty of time to review the details in the days ahead.
So, enjoy, Packer fans! The Packers are 6-3 atop the NFC North going into the bye week.
It's great to be a Packer fan. Especially when you put a hurt on the 'boys from Big D like the Pack did tonight. "America's Team" ... yeah, right.
Packers must beat Cowboys tonight
Granted, nothing surprising in that headline. But given that both Da Bearz and the ViQueens pulled wins out of you-know-where earlier today, the Green Bay Packers must do what they are favored to do: beat the Dallas Cowboys at Lambeau Field.
This would give the Pack a three-game winning streak going into the bye week, and set them up to play what will no doubt be a battered 'Queens team at the Humpty Dump the week after; the 'Queens play Da Bearz in Chicago next weekend...which begs the question: can both teams lose? Yes, wishful thinking, I know. (Sigh)
But back to tonight's game. The point spread favoring the Pack over the past few days has gone from 8-1/2 points to 7. Tells you that those who wager see a Dallas team that could, perhaps, maybe, reverse their downward spiral. Certainly they have the talent to do so. We just need to hope they don't pick tonight to get off the turnover-penalty bandwagon they've been riding all the way to their 1-6 season record...or as owner Jerry Jones prematurely stated after last week's loss, a 1-7 record.
It will be an intriguing game to watch, as this will be a game of match ups. We can continue to look to Packers' defensive coordinator Dom Capers to weave his magic with players and schemes. That will be needed to keep Dallas' three-headed running attack in check and force Jon Kitna to carry the day. Conversely, Packers' head coach Mike McCarthy needs to start walking his own talk about committing more to the run on offense. RB Brandon Jackson has shown flashes. But it seems just when he gets rolling, McCarthy's play-calling turns into an ongoing series of shotgun formations with no running backs to be seen anywhere. Gotta keep the 'boys honest tonight, coach. Please. It might just be the thing to provide enough of a rhythm for the offense, the kind that seems to have been missing for a large part of the season.
So, without further ado...let the game begin!
Go Pack Go!!!
This would give the Pack a three-game winning streak going into the bye week, and set them up to play what will no doubt be a battered 'Queens team at the Humpty Dump the week after; the 'Queens play Da Bearz in Chicago next weekend...which begs the question: can both teams lose? Yes, wishful thinking, I know. (Sigh)
But back to tonight's game. The point spread favoring the Pack over the past few days has gone from 8-1/2 points to 7. Tells you that those who wager see a Dallas team that could, perhaps, maybe, reverse their downward spiral. Certainly they have the talent to do so. We just need to hope they don't pick tonight to get off the turnover-penalty bandwagon they've been riding all the way to their 1-6 season record...or as owner Jerry Jones prematurely stated after last week's loss, a 1-7 record.
It will be an intriguing game to watch, as this will be a game of match ups. We can continue to look to Packers' defensive coordinator Dom Capers to weave his magic with players and schemes. That will be needed to keep Dallas' three-headed running attack in check and force Jon Kitna to carry the day. Conversely, Packers' head coach Mike McCarthy needs to start walking his own talk about committing more to the run on offense. RB Brandon Jackson has shown flashes. But it seems just when he gets rolling, McCarthy's play-calling turns into an ongoing series of shotgun formations with no running backs to be seen anywhere. Gotta keep the 'boys honest tonight, coach. Please. It might just be the thing to provide enough of a rhythm for the offense, the kind that seems to have been missing for a large part of the season.
So, without further ado...let the game begin!
Go Pack Go!!!
Lets' get ready to play music! Wait...what???
If it's game day in Green Bay then it must be time to talk about...symphonic music???
Yes, this is the place you come to read about our beloved Green Bay Packers. And you will, just not in the usual way. Bear with me.
"The Civic Symphony of Green Bay has a surprising concert lined up Friday – rousing football themes. Many of the pieces are bursts of heroics and adrenaline made for NFL Films. The man who wrote much of that music is coming from Munich, Germany, to conduct."
So begins an article in yesterday's Green Bay Press-Gazette. It tells the improbable story of how a chance pick up two years ago of a CD, "Power and the Glory," containing a compilation of that great music from NFL Films led to this upcoming multi-media orchestral presentation. And the characters involved have interesting connections going back to Vince Lombardi himself. The article details how the key players had to navigate a lack of musical score availability, rights to play the music, etc. Certainly it's all a tribute to an idea and the perseverance to see it through. Worth reading.
According to the article, "Narrating and hosting the concert will be Bill Jartz, WBAY, Channel 2, anchorman and stadium announcer at Lambeau Field. The Green Bay Press-Gazette has supplied photos from most eras of Packers history for projecting on a screen. Augmenting the orchestra will be players from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and the community."
You can learn about the Civic Symphony of Green Bay's performance here. Tickets are just $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for students and families can attend for just $35. Holy helmet-to-helmet hit, Batman! That's a deal! And with the Packers bye week coming up, here's a way for you to get your football fix and even get a dose of culture at the same time. Thank goodness, though, it's still football culture. I mean...c'mon, right? It is Green Bay after all.
Thanks again to fellow Packer fan and friend, Steve, for passing this along.
Yes, this is the place you come to read about our beloved Green Bay Packers. And you will, just not in the usual way. Bear with me.
"The Civic Symphony of Green Bay has a surprising concert lined up Friday – rousing football themes. Many of the pieces are bursts of heroics and adrenaline made for NFL Films. The man who wrote much of that music is coming from Munich, Germany, to conduct."
So begins an article in yesterday's Green Bay Press-Gazette. It tells the improbable story of how a chance pick up two years ago of a CD, "Power and the Glory," containing a compilation of that great music from NFL Films led to this upcoming multi-media orchestral presentation. And the characters involved have interesting connections going back to Vince Lombardi himself. The article details how the key players had to navigate a lack of musical score availability, rights to play the music, etc. Certainly it's all a tribute to an idea and the perseverance to see it through. Worth reading.
According to the article, "Narrating and hosting the concert will be Bill Jartz, WBAY, Channel 2, anchorman and stadium announcer at Lambeau Field. The Green Bay Press-Gazette has supplied photos from most eras of Packers history for projecting on a screen. Augmenting the orchestra will be players from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and the community."
You can learn about the Civic Symphony of Green Bay's performance here. Tickets are just $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for students and families can attend for just $35. Holy helmet-to-helmet hit, Batman! That's a deal! And with the Packers bye week coming up, here's a way for you to get your football fix and even get a dose of culture at the same time. Thank goodness, though, it's still football culture. I mean...c'mon, right? It is Green Bay after all.
Thanks again to fellow Packer fan and friend, Steve, for passing this along.
Saturday, November 06, 2010
Packers - Cowboys Preview: Sunday Night Showdown
Two teams headed in different directions. That pretty well sums up the contest Sunday evening between the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys. After giving away a couple games they should have won, and sitting at a mediocre 3-3, the Pack put together great wins over the ViQueens and the Jets.
Both of those wins can be attributed more to the Packers' defense -- which, lest we forget, is the unit that has been hurt the most with injuries -- than the offense. At the mid-point of the season, the Packers' offense still has yet to play a complete game. Sunday night against the 'boys would be as good a time as any to put a complete game together.
The offense will be without veteran WR Donald Driver for the first time in...oh...forever, it seems. He was on crutches late in the practice week just to give some added relief to his quad injury. That means, likely, that Greg Jennings will take Driver's spot in the slot and has the potential for some big plays. As radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee points out about Dallas in his blog, "There is a gap of coverage between the linebacking corps, the safeties and cornerbacks that is wide open" because "Dallas will blitz a lot and they like to play quarters coverage behind those blitzes." Jennings and fellow receivers James Jones and Jordy Nelson should be chompin' at the bit to against the Dallas secondary. Let's just hope that they and their QB, Aaron Rodgers, are a bit more in sync than they seem to have been over the last few games. And that they hold on to the passes that come their way. If so, the Pack could rack up some points.
Rookie TE Andrew Quarless was battling a shoulder problem throughout the week and he is listed as questionable for the game. It was clear in some of head coach Mike McCarthy's comments during the week that he was less than satisfied with Quarless' ability to work through the discomfort and be on the practice field. McCarthy noted that the players that practice are the ones who will get the nod on game day...hint, hint, Mr. Quarless.
On the Packers' offensive line, rookie Bryan Bulaga will once again get the start at right tackle in place of the still gimpy Mark Tauscher. LG Daryn Colledge missed a bit of practice during the week with a bad back and it wasn't certain he'd be available for the game. Jason Spitz and T. J. Lang would be the backups if Colledge couldn't go. But he did practice Friday and says he'll be ready.
On defense, it was announced late Saturday afternoon that S Atari Bigby was activated off the PUP (physically unable to perform) list and now fills the last open roster spot which was made available earlier in the week when the Packers cut DE Michael Montgomery. Rookie Morgan Burnett had filled Bigby's starting spot at the beginning of the season until he was lost to season-ending injury. Charlie Peprah has been filling the role well the last few weeks. It will be interesting to see just how much play Bigby gets in the game against Dallas.
It will also be interesting to see if CB Al Harris is activated before game time. Ditto for the other member of the PUP list, rookie RB James Starks. The Packers have until Monday to decide what to do with them. There is some speculation that CB Pat Lee might be placed on IR after sustaining a high ankle sprain in the game against the Jets. Lee is listed as out for the Dallas game. If that's the case, and the prognosis on the sprain is not good, it would make sense that the Packers put him on IR opening up a roster spot for Harris. The consensus on Starks seems to be that the Packers will put him on IR for the rest of the season and then see what they have with him next year.
As for the Cowboys, at 1-6 they are, to say the least, underperforming given the talent on the roster. But a lot of talent doesn't necessarily add up to a team. The 'boys seemingly are in disarray, much like that team in the funky purple. But as a character in a Monty Python sketch reminds us (please say with an Australian accent), "There's nothing as dangerous as a wounded mosquito."
What has cost the Cowboys this season has been turnovers and penalties. If the Packers can create turnovers and convert them into points, that will help seal the deal for a win. If the Packers allow veteran QB Jon Kitna -- replacing the injured Tony Romo -- time to find any among the band of talented receivers, things could get interesting. The running backs seem good enough, but they have been underutilized it would seem. The special teams have a dangerous returner in Dez Bryant, who is also the receiver Kitna seems to have developed a quick rapport with. The Pack will have to shut him down.
Bottom line is if the Packers defense plays the way it has been playing, the special teams continues its fine turn-around, and the offense finally gets it in gear and can get up early on the 'boys, the Pack should come out of this game with a win and be at 6-3 going into the bye week. That would also leave them well in charge of the NFC North. And given what a mess there is in Minnesota right now, what some (or many) figured might be a loss in the Humpty Dump in two weeks could very well be the Pack's seventh victory. But we'll worry about that game then. Gotta take care of business at Lambeau against the Cowboys first.
The Packers are favored by 7-1/2 points (depending upon who you tend to be looking at for that type of info). I'm calling this game 30-20 in favor of the Pack.
Go Pack Go!!!
Both of those wins can be attributed more to the Packers' defense -- which, lest we forget, is the unit that has been hurt the most with injuries -- than the offense. At the mid-point of the season, the Packers' offense still has yet to play a complete game. Sunday night against the 'boys would be as good a time as any to put a complete game together.
The offense will be without veteran WR Donald Driver for the first time in...oh...forever, it seems. He was on crutches late in the practice week just to give some added relief to his quad injury. That means, likely, that Greg Jennings will take Driver's spot in the slot and has the potential for some big plays. As radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee points out about Dallas in his blog, "There is a gap of coverage between the linebacking corps, the safeties and cornerbacks that is wide open" because "Dallas will blitz a lot and they like to play quarters coverage behind those blitzes." Jennings and fellow receivers James Jones and Jordy Nelson should be chompin' at the bit to against the Dallas secondary. Let's just hope that they and their QB, Aaron Rodgers, are a bit more in sync than they seem to have been over the last few games. And that they hold on to the passes that come their way. If so, the Pack could rack up some points.
Rookie TE Andrew Quarless was battling a shoulder problem throughout the week and he is listed as questionable for the game. It was clear in some of head coach Mike McCarthy's comments during the week that he was less than satisfied with Quarless' ability to work through the discomfort and be on the practice field. McCarthy noted that the players that practice are the ones who will get the nod on game day...hint, hint, Mr. Quarless.
On the Packers' offensive line, rookie Bryan Bulaga will once again get the start at right tackle in place of the still gimpy Mark Tauscher. LG Daryn Colledge missed a bit of practice during the week with a bad back and it wasn't certain he'd be available for the game. Jason Spitz and T. J. Lang would be the backups if Colledge couldn't go. But he did practice Friday and says he'll be ready.
On defense, it was announced late Saturday afternoon that S Atari Bigby was activated off the PUP (physically unable to perform) list and now fills the last open roster spot which was made available earlier in the week when the Packers cut DE Michael Montgomery. Rookie Morgan Burnett had filled Bigby's starting spot at the beginning of the season until he was lost to season-ending injury. Charlie Peprah has been filling the role well the last few weeks. It will be interesting to see just how much play Bigby gets in the game against Dallas.
It will also be interesting to see if CB Al Harris is activated before game time. Ditto for the other member of the PUP list, rookie RB James Starks. The Packers have until Monday to decide what to do with them. There is some speculation that CB Pat Lee might be placed on IR after sustaining a high ankle sprain in the game against the Jets. Lee is listed as out for the Dallas game. If that's the case, and the prognosis on the sprain is not good, it would make sense that the Packers put him on IR opening up a roster spot for Harris. The consensus on Starks seems to be that the Packers will put him on IR for the rest of the season and then see what they have with him next year.
As for the Cowboys, at 1-6 they are, to say the least, underperforming given the talent on the roster. But a lot of talent doesn't necessarily add up to a team. The 'boys seemingly are in disarray, much like that team in the funky purple. But as a character in a Monty Python sketch reminds us (please say with an Australian accent), "There's nothing as dangerous as a wounded mosquito."
What has cost the Cowboys this season has been turnovers and penalties. If the Packers can create turnovers and convert them into points, that will help seal the deal for a win. If the Packers allow veteran QB Jon Kitna -- replacing the injured Tony Romo -- time to find any among the band of talented receivers, things could get interesting. The running backs seem good enough, but they have been underutilized it would seem. The special teams have a dangerous returner in Dez Bryant, who is also the receiver Kitna seems to have developed a quick rapport with. The Pack will have to shut him down.
Bottom line is if the Packers defense plays the way it has been playing, the special teams continues its fine turn-around, and the offense finally gets it in gear and can get up early on the 'boys, the Pack should come out of this game with a win and be at 6-3 going into the bye week. That would also leave them well in charge of the NFC North. And given what a mess there is in Minnesota right now, what some (or many) figured might be a loss in the Humpty Dump in two weeks could very well be the Pack's seventh victory. But we'll worry about that game then. Gotta take care of business at Lambeau against the Cowboys first.
The Packers are favored by 7-1/2 points (depending upon who you tend to be looking at for that type of info). I'm calling this game 30-20 in favor of the Pack.
Go Pack Go!!!
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
New book details Lombardi-years' Packers and St. Norbert College
According to news on the college's website, the book was the brainchild of SNC President Thomas Kunkel, who took over the helm of SNC in 2008. It wasn't long afterward that he started hearing Lombardi stories from the Rev. Rowland De Peaux, O.Praem., and others.
Kunkel eventually asked veteran Packers beat writer and sports journalist Cliff Christl to put togehter an oral history of the Packers training camps at SNC during the Lombardi years. “We were fortunate to have Cliff take on this project with us,” Kunkel is quoted as saying. “He knows the team, he knows the players and he knows the campus. He was the perfect person for the job.”
If you're interested in the book, it's available at the Packers Pro Shop and will be available in Shopko stores in Wisconsin and upper Michigan (a shout out to all you Yoopers!) in early November. The book will also be available at the new SNC bookstore in Todd Wehr Hall (for those in the neighborhood of De Pere) and as a featured item in the college’s online store.
The news release notes that the strong relationship between the Packers and St. Norbert College continues: "This past summer, Kunkel was elected to the team’s board of directors. Former Packers general manager Ron Wolf will be December’s guest on 'Conversations from St. Norbert College,' and Packers CEO Mark Murphy has contributed a guest editorial to the upcoming issue of St. Norbert College Magazine, in mailboxes next week.
"In addition, the Packers will be co-sponsoring the college’s second sport and society conference in 2012. And, of course, the team will be back on campus when next year’s training camp rolls around."
The book sounds like a terrific addition to the library for Packers fans. And...it's perfect for parties...and ideal for gifts!
Oh, and for those looking for a great small college for the kids, you won't do any better than St. Norbert College. Hey...if it's good enough for the Packers...
And finally, thanks to friend and Packer fan, Steve, for passing this story along.
Favre as zombie? Hmmm...
There certainly have been many twists and turns in the life and NFL career of Ol' #4. Eschewing (look it up!) a big bankroll from the Green Bay Packers to ride off into the sunset as a legend and ambassador of sorts for the Pack, Brett Favre instead opted for more gridiron glory. Or not, as this year is sadly bringing home to roost for him in more ways than one.
But that aside, and no matter how we may feel about Ol' #4 on any given day, we mere mortals stand in awe of his ongoing ability to seemingly be the football equivalent of the Energizer Bunny, who just keeps going and going and going and going...even on an ankle with two fractures.
One writer has finally figured out Favre's secret: he's a zombie!
Check out the article and evidence for yourself. Then...you decide!!!
By the way, thanks to displaced -- and occasionally deranged -- Packer fan, Gonz, for passing along this story.
But that aside, and no matter how we may feel about Ol' #4 on any given day, we mere mortals stand in awe of his ongoing ability to seemingly be the football equivalent of the Energizer Bunny, who just keeps going and going and going and going...even on an ankle with two fractures.
One writer has finally figured out Favre's secret: he's a zombie!
Check out the article and evidence for yourself. Then...you decide!!!
By the way, thanks to displaced -- and occasionally deranged -- Packer fan, Gonz, for passing along this story.
Monday, November 01, 2010
Packers' victory over Jets: no-name "D" gets it done
This NFL season for the Green Bay Packers certainly has not unfolded as many if not most folks thought it would coming out of the preseason. The injuries have bordered upon an epidemic of Biblical proportions. The inconsistency of the offense through the first half of the season is frustrating and bewildering. The special teams? Not very special early on, but as of late...not bad at all. And as for the defense, guys should be wearing name tags out there so you know who's playing on any given weekend.
And yet, somehow, this team has fought through the adversity, not used excuses, and have gotten tremendous peformances out of guys who might not even be on a NFL roster right now if not for all the Packers' injuries. Charles Woodson put it this way: "It's amazing what you can do with some athleticism and good coaching. We've got good coaches, so you can stick some guys in there who haven't been around, and they can get it done."
That's just what they did yesterday in the new Meadowlands. Despite the inability of the offense to score a touchdown -- even with 1st and goal from the 2-yard line! -- the punting of Tim Masthay and the coverage of the punt units gave the Packers the edge in field position all day long. Head coach Mike McCarthy said, tongue in cheek, at his press conference today that Masthay's punting performance was so good, it "almost makes me want to cry." Given that the Packers' punting production over the last several years has been near the bottom of the league, one can only image how giddy McCarthy must feel to have something going for a change in that area.
Anyway, as a result of Masthay's fine punting and return shutdowns by the coverage unit, the Packers' no-name defense was able to absorb the occasional big play by the Jets' reputed high-power offense. The closest the Jets got to scoring all day was a 37-yard field goal attempt that stayed right of the goal posts.
The bottom line was the Packers' first road shutout since 1991 and only their sixth in the last 50 years. Granted, the Jets helped the Packers all day long with a few dropped passes and, of course, three turnovers. But the Packers' defense took it to the Jets. Key plays by LB Desmond Bishop, S Charlie Peprah, cornerbacks Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams, pressures by LB Clay Matthews and a three-man front, solid play by all the linebackers...all in all, it was a great effort by the Pack's defensive unit. And another great coaching job by that Conjurer of Lombardi Avenue, defensive coordinator Dom Capers. He's working magic with the defense, somehow getting production and performances out of players that just shouldn't be playing this well. But thank goodness they are. It's the story to the season so far.
Now, if the Packers can -- as they well should -- win at home on Sunday night against the woeful Dallas Cowboys, they will go into the bye week at 6-3. Who'da thunk it???
Cowboys, anyone?
Oh, and by the way, if you want to read about the Pack's next opponent, the 'boys, check out this article in which the Big 'boy himself, Jerry Jones, apologizes for the current state of his team.
Now, the Pack can't let down. We know there is a defense that can shut down and shut out a pretty good offense. And, finally, there may be a punting game back in Green Bay that can be relied on to shift field position in favor of the Pack. But it would be nice, before going into the bye, to see the offense finally get it together. If so, it will all add up to that 6-3 record we're hoping for.
All that's left to say about that is, Go Pack Go!!!
And yet, somehow, this team has fought through the adversity, not used excuses, and have gotten tremendous peformances out of guys who might not even be on a NFL roster right now if not for all the Packers' injuries. Charles Woodson put it this way: "It's amazing what you can do with some athleticism and good coaching. We've got good coaches, so you can stick some guys in there who haven't been around, and they can get it done."
That's just what they did yesterday in the new Meadowlands. Despite the inability of the offense to score a touchdown -- even with 1st and goal from the 2-yard line! -- the punting of Tim Masthay and the coverage of the punt units gave the Packers the edge in field position all day long. Head coach Mike McCarthy said, tongue in cheek, at his press conference today that Masthay's punting performance was so good, it "almost makes me want to cry." Given that the Packers' punting production over the last several years has been near the bottom of the league, one can only image how giddy McCarthy must feel to have something going for a change in that area.
Anyway, as a result of Masthay's fine punting and return shutdowns by the coverage unit, the Packers' no-name defense was able to absorb the occasional big play by the Jets' reputed high-power offense. The closest the Jets got to scoring all day was a 37-yard field goal attempt that stayed right of the goal posts.
The bottom line was the Packers' first road shutout since 1991 and only their sixth in the last 50 years. Granted, the Jets helped the Packers all day long with a few dropped passes and, of course, three turnovers. But the Packers' defense took it to the Jets. Key plays by LB Desmond Bishop, S Charlie Peprah, cornerbacks Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams, pressures by LB Clay Matthews and a three-man front, solid play by all the linebackers...all in all, it was a great effort by the Pack's defensive unit. And another great coaching job by that Conjurer of Lombardi Avenue, defensive coordinator Dom Capers. He's working magic with the defense, somehow getting production and performances out of players that just shouldn't be playing this well. But thank goodness they are. It's the story to the season so far.
Now, if the Packers can -- as they well should -- win at home on Sunday night against the woeful Dallas Cowboys, they will go into the bye week at 6-3. Who'da thunk it???
Cowboys, anyone?
Oh, and by the way, if you want to read about the Pack's next opponent, the 'boys, check out this article in which the Big 'boy himself, Jerry Jones, apologizes for the current state of his team.
Now, the Pack can't let down. We know there is a defense that can shut down and shut out a pretty good offense. And, finally, there may be a punting game back in Green Bay that can be relied on to shift field position in favor of the Pack. But it would be nice, before going into the bye, to see the offense finally get it together. If so, it will all add up to that 6-3 record we're hoping for.
All that's left to say about that is, Go Pack Go!!!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Packers shut out Jets 9-0
It wasn't a thing of beauty from the offense, but the Green Bay Packers defense and special teams came up huge as the Pack beat the NY Jets 9-0.
There will be more review on this game in the next day or so. But right now, the Pack goes to 5-3 on the season, claiming 1st place in the NFC North division with Da Bearz inactive today...I know, many would say they are inactive even when they play, but that's another conversation. The ViQueens, are playing right now with Ol' #4 at QB...we'll see how long he goes today. The Patriots should deal the 'Queens yet another loss, further extending the Packers' lead on them.
With the dysfunctional Cowboys coming to Lambeau next Sunday night, if the Pack can come out of that game with a victory -- and with these two quality wins under their belts you have to expect their chances of that are very good -- the Packers will go into the bye week at 6-3. Who would have imagined that given the injuries and personnel turnover they have had to deal with in this first half of the season? Remarkable.
So, let's just enjoy this right now, as the Packers are showing a lot of heart, particularly on defense. The offense still seems to be misfiring and out of sync more than it should be at this point of the season. But perhaps they can finally get that in gear for the stretch run. That would make them very tough to beat for the division title. (Fingers crossed!)
Go Pack Go!!!
There will be more review on this game in the next day or so. But right now, the Pack goes to 5-3 on the season, claiming 1st place in the NFC North division with Da Bearz inactive today...I know, many would say they are inactive even when they play, but that's another conversation. The ViQueens, are playing right now with Ol' #4 at QB...we'll see how long he goes today. The Patriots should deal the 'Queens yet another loss, further extending the Packers' lead on them.
With the dysfunctional Cowboys coming to Lambeau next Sunday night, if the Pack can come out of that game with a victory -- and with these two quality wins under their belts you have to expect their chances of that are very good -- the Packers will go into the bye week at 6-3. Who would have imagined that given the injuries and personnel turnover they have had to deal with in this first half of the season? Remarkable.
So, let's just enjoy this right now, as the Packers are showing a lot of heart, particularly on defense. The offense still seems to be misfiring and out of sync more than it should be at this point of the season. But perhaps they can finally get that in gear for the stretch run. That would make them very tough to beat for the division title. (Fingers crossed!)
Go Pack Go!!!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Packers vs. Jets Preview
The recently-victorious but serially-injured Green Bay Packers travel to the Big Apple this weekend to take on the NY Jets, who are pretty healthy and coming off a bye week. The Jets also have one of the best rushing games in the NFL to this stage of the season (#2 overall) courtesy of one of the best O-lines in the league blowing holes open for RB LaDainian Tomlinson, who the Packers and many other teams thought was over-the-hill at age 31 and passed him by when he was let go by the Chargers -- oops. Oh, and the Jets also have a pretty good young quarterback, although they rank just 27th overall in passing.
Seems as if no one is giving the Pack much of chance in Sunday's game: they are currently listed as 6-1/2-point underdogs.
Interestingly, at least if you are a stat geek, the Jets actually lead the all-time regular-season series, 8-2. What's more, the Jets have won the last three contests against the Packers. Hmmmm...
OK, the Pack is coming off an emotional and physically demanding game against the guys in the funky purple. Pundits and fans both wonder how much the Packers will have in the tank for this game, which, while important, is a non-division and non-conference game. And with roughly half the roster (as shown in a post here earlier this month) on some type of injury list (either full IR or the game-to-game variety), the Packers are seemingly undermanned and probably underwhelmed at the prospect of this game.
Seems as if some players, e.g., Ryan Pickett, Cullen Jenkins and Mark Tauscher among them, might be held out this week so they are ready for the upcoming Sunday night showdown in Lambeau with the 'boys from Dallas. Seems a reasonable call. Granted, you don't want to ever go in thinking of a loss. But at this stage of the season and the roster as it is -- including several new linebackers and linemen added just this week -- keeping some key players healthy to go another day might be a fair trade in the long run.
And that's really what the Packers have to look at at this point: the rest of the season and how they are going to make the playoffs. They either need to win the division -- and, let's face it, it will either be the Pack or the 'Queens by a game or a tiebreaker (my apologies to my friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan)-- or somehow grab a wildcard spot. Getting that win against the 'Queens was a biggie, and that's why perhaps being 4-4 after this game, instead of 3-5, is all the difference in the world getting ready for Dallas and then, thankfully, the bye week.
So, what's the call on this game? Look for a lot of rushing attack by the Jets against the Packers' understaffed defensive line. If, somehow, the Pack can bend but not break in that area and force young QB Mark Sanchez into some bad decisions, the Packers have a chance. Or, if the Packers offense can do what it did for some of the game against the 'Queens, and stay on the field and minimize Jets' offensive plays, there is also a chance the Pack could steal a victory.
My head says Jets but my heart says (of course) Packers. I'll call it 24-21 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
Seems as if no one is giving the Pack much of chance in Sunday's game: they are currently listed as 6-1/2-point underdogs.
Interestingly, at least if you are a stat geek, the Jets actually lead the all-time regular-season series, 8-2. What's more, the Jets have won the last three contests against the Packers. Hmmmm...
OK, the Pack is coming off an emotional and physically demanding game against the guys in the funky purple. Pundits and fans both wonder how much the Packers will have in the tank for this game, which, while important, is a non-division and non-conference game. And with roughly half the roster (as shown in a post here earlier this month) on some type of injury list (either full IR or the game-to-game variety), the Packers are seemingly undermanned and probably underwhelmed at the prospect of this game.
Seems as if some players, e.g., Ryan Pickett, Cullen Jenkins and Mark Tauscher among them, might be held out this week so they are ready for the upcoming Sunday night showdown in Lambeau with the 'boys from Dallas. Seems a reasonable call. Granted, you don't want to ever go in thinking of a loss. But at this stage of the season and the roster as it is -- including several new linebackers and linemen added just this week -- keeping some key players healthy to go another day might be a fair trade in the long run.
And that's really what the Packers have to look at at this point: the rest of the season and how they are going to make the playoffs. They either need to win the division -- and, let's face it, it will either be the Pack or the 'Queens by a game or a tiebreaker (my apologies to my friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan)-- or somehow grab a wildcard spot. Getting that win against the 'Queens was a biggie, and that's why perhaps being 4-4 after this game, instead of 3-5, is all the difference in the world getting ready for Dallas and then, thankfully, the bye week.
So, what's the call on this game? Look for a lot of rushing attack by the Jets against the Packers' understaffed defensive line. If, somehow, the Pack can bend but not break in that area and force young QB Mark Sanchez into some bad decisions, the Packers have a chance. Or, if the Packers offense can do what it did for some of the game against the 'Queens, and stay on the field and minimize Jets' offensive plays, there is also a chance the Pack could steal a victory.
My head says Jets but my heart says (of course) Packers. I'll call it 24-21 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
If it's a new week there must be new Packers
You know that old saying, "You can't tell your players without a program"? Perhaps never has that been more true for fans of the Green Bay Packers than this season.
We're just coming up on the half-way point and there are now 10 Packers on the season-ending injured reserve list, eight of them from the defense (see my post from Tuesday regarding the situation Dom Capers has been dealing with as the defensive coordinator). Defensive lineman Mike Neal and linebackers Brady Poppinga and Brad Jones -- the latter of the Favre-ankle-fracture tackle -- are the latest.
So, over the course of this week, GM Ted Thompson has had to find some bodies. He's added several linebackers and a D-lineman who, perhaps not coincidentally, was picked up on waivers from the Packers' next opponent, the Jets.
You can read more about the new pick ups in the following articles: DT Howard Green, LB Erik Walden, LBs Diyarl Briggs and Erik Wilhelm.
To make room on the roster, LB Maurice Simpkins was cut.
With CB Al Harris and S Atari Bigby ready to be activated either this week or next, the roster is still very much in flux.
While the Packers' linebacking corps has certainly been decimated with injuries, it's interesting that only one defensive lineman has been added given its current lack of depth, as well. Sunday evening against the ViQueens, for example, the Pack was down basically to only three available D-linemen: B. J. Raji, C. J. Wilson and Jarius Wynn. Ryan Pickett was sidelined after a mere seven snaps with a bum ankle and Cullen Jenkins -- already playing one-handed with his other in a cast for the rest of the season -- strained a calf muscle in warmups and was unable to play.
There's no other team in the league that has been hit as hard as the Packers with injuries this early in the season: 10 players on IR among whom are eight members of the defense and which also includes five starters from both sides of the ball. Wow.
If somehow Thompson and the coaches can keep this all together with string and baling wire it will be one heckuva personnel job from top to bottom. Still a long way to go in the season. But it can't get any worse from an injury standpoint, can it? No, really, it can't. Can it???
We're just coming up on the half-way point and there are now 10 Packers on the season-ending injured reserve list, eight of them from the defense (see my post from Tuesday regarding the situation Dom Capers has been dealing with as the defensive coordinator). Defensive lineman Mike Neal and linebackers Brady Poppinga and Brad Jones -- the latter of the Favre-ankle-fracture tackle -- are the latest.
So, over the course of this week, GM Ted Thompson has had to find some bodies. He's added several linebackers and a D-lineman who, perhaps not coincidentally, was picked up on waivers from the Packers' next opponent, the Jets.
You can read more about the new pick ups in the following articles: DT Howard Green, LB Erik Walden, LBs Diyarl Briggs and Erik Wilhelm.
To make room on the roster, LB Maurice Simpkins was cut.
With CB Al Harris and S Atari Bigby ready to be activated either this week or next, the roster is still very much in flux.
While the Packers' linebacking corps has certainly been decimated with injuries, it's interesting that only one defensive lineman has been added given its current lack of depth, as well. Sunday evening against the ViQueens, for example, the Pack was down basically to only three available D-linemen: B. J. Raji, C. J. Wilson and Jarius Wynn. Ryan Pickett was sidelined after a mere seven snaps with a bum ankle and Cullen Jenkins -- already playing one-handed with his other in a cast for the rest of the season -- strained a calf muscle in warmups and was unable to play.
There's no other team in the league that has been hit as hard as the Packers with injuries this early in the season: 10 players on IR among whom are eight members of the defense and which also includes five starters from both sides of the ball. Wow.
If somehow Thompson and the coaches can keep this all together with string and baling wire it will be one heckuva personnel job from top to bottom. Still a long way to go in the season. But it can't get any worse from an injury standpoint, can it? No, really, it can't. Can it???
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Kudos to Capers, the Packers' MacGyver
With a large chunk of the Green Bay Packers' defense lost to season-ending injuries (eight players now on IR) or game-to-game unavailability, the abilities of defensive coordinator Dom Capers have certainly been put to the test. Perhaps, as he even alludes, more than ever in his 25-year career in the NFL.
The fact that his defense was able to do what it did against the ViQueens on Sunday night is a testament to Capers and his assistants. When you look at who he had available to play the defensive line, as well as all the other make-dos he's had to make do with through the first seven games of the season, well, Capers seems to be holding the Packers "D" together in a very MacGyver-esque fashion. How long he can keep it working remains to be seen. With most of the key injuries on the defensive side of the roster, the fact remains that it has primarily been the misfirings of the Packers' offense and special teams, more so than the patchwork defense, that has led to the Pack's three losses.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has a great article about Capers and the defensive challenges he's facing. It's a great read for any fan of the Pack and, for that matter, any fan of football. Check it out.
The fact that his defense was able to do what it did against the ViQueens on Sunday night is a testament to Capers and his assistants. When you look at who he had available to play the defensive line, as well as all the other make-dos he's had to make do with through the first seven games of the season, well, Capers seems to be holding the Packers "D" together in a very MacGyver-esque fashion. How long he can keep it working remains to be seen. With most of the key injuries on the defensive side of the roster, the fact remains that it has primarily been the misfirings of the Packers' offense and special teams, more so than the patchwork defense, that has led to the Pack's three losses.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has a great article about Capers and the defensive challenges he's facing. It's a great read for any fan of the Pack and, for that matter, any fan of football. Check it out.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Packers gift to Favre? Two fractures in ankle
It turns out that Ol' #4, Brett Favre, not only left Lambeau Field last night with a loss to his old team, the Green Bay Packers, but two fractures in his left ankle. The injury likely happened on the tackle by LB Brad Jones on which fellow linebacker A. J. Hawk also picked off Favre's pass. Reports are that Favre is today in a walking boot. The Minnesota Vikings say that surgery will not be necessary but Favre's status for Sunday's game against the Patriots is uncertain.
That puts Favre's streak of 291 consecutive regular season games started in jeopardy. Something ironic, if it works out that way, that the streak began with the Packers in 1992 and, in a manner of speaking, ended with the Pack in 2010.
Of course, the way his coach, Brad Childress, threw Favre under the bus last night with his blame game comments also probably isn't going to provide Brett with much incentive to get beat up some more.
Ol' #4 was looking more ol' than #4 last night. With all the off-field stuff that's flying around, you also have to believe that Brett is regretting his decision to play this year.
Hate to say we told you so, Brett. Two years ago you could have walked away from the Packers with a reported $20 million appearance fee contract and no more football. Yeah, you still wanted to play. Got that. But look where it got you: New York and an alleged scandal, whether true or not, that pops up (no pun intended) 2 years later and further tarnishes your reputation; and Minnesota, the hated rival of the team where you made your reputation and where the fans made you. You had one good year in stats. Didn't make the big game. Got talked into trying it again. And you've looked...well...like the grandpa you are. Not a great way to end your career, Brett. Not at all. Especially compared to the white horse and Green 'n' Gold robe of glory you could have ridden out on and still be riding all the way to the bank.
Sad. Sad indeed.
That puts Favre's streak of 291 consecutive regular season games started in jeopardy. Something ironic, if it works out that way, that the streak began with the Packers in 1992 and, in a manner of speaking, ended with the Pack in 2010.
Of course, the way his coach, Brad Childress, threw Favre under the bus last night with his blame game comments also probably isn't going to provide Brett with much incentive to get beat up some more.
Ol' #4 was looking more ol' than #4 last night. With all the off-field stuff that's flying around, you also have to believe that Brett is regretting his decision to play this year.
Hate to say we told you so, Brett. Two years ago you could have walked away from the Packers with a reported $20 million appearance fee contract and no more football. Yeah, you still wanted to play. Got that. But look where it got you: New York and an alleged scandal, whether true or not, that pops up (no pun intended) 2 years later and further tarnishes your reputation; and Minnesota, the hated rival of the team where you made your reputation and where the fans made you. You had one good year in stats. Didn't make the big game. Got talked into trying it again. And you've looked...well...like the grandpa you are. Not a great way to end your career, Brett. Not at all. Especially compared to the white horse and Green 'n' Gold robe of glory you could have ridden out on and still be riding all the way to the bank.
Sad. Sad indeed.
Packers beat Favre and Vikings...finally!
As the football world knows today, the Green Bay Packers -- depleted by injuries coming into the game and wounded even more throughout it -- prevailed last evening over their border rival Minnesota Vikings, 28-24.
This was a much-needed win, a character win, as they say. What else can you call a game where you overcome two turnovers by your own QB in or near the red zone by getting three interceptions of your own and holding the opponent scoreless in the final 15 minutes of play? Where you have only one of your starting defensive lineman still playing at the end of the game? Where backups on offense and defense -- in some cases, players way down on the depth charts -- had to perform at a level and on a national stage they never had before?
Yes, character. That's what this game was about. Granted, it was also about getting a win against a divisional opponent that the Pack will be battling for the NFC North title (yes, we are writing off Da Bearz and Lions as contenders...I mean, c'mon...). But a game like this can go a long way to bringing a team together perhaps in a way which nothing else can. Injuries have made the journey to the playoffs and Super Bowl not what anyone expected prior to the start of the season. The games to date have not been pretty. And a couple were giftwrapped for the opponent. Last evening had it's ugly moments as well. How many times, for example, were Aaron Rodgers and his receivers running apparently different plays? Looked occasionally as if Rodgers was using the Jay Cutler Pocket Guide to Being a Mediocre Quarterback. But he threw for nearly 300 yards. And many of his passes that were on target were, dare I say, Favre-esque in their zippiness (is that a word?). In his post-game comments, Rodgers admitted the game meant not only a lot to the team but to him personally. I bet. Exorcising the ghost of quarterbacks past is no small thing. Especially in Green Bay.
Rodgers and company did enough on offense, despite missing opportunities to score which has been an unsettling and ongoing trend to date. Head coach Mike McCarthy mixed up his play calling enough to keep the ViQueens defense from blitzing on every play. The running backs made just enough contributions. Veteran TE Donald Lee came up large on two screen passes. And WR James Jones was the receiver du jour, also making big plays. Huge kudos to LT Chad Clifton who made 'Queens DE Jared Allen a non-factor. Yes, Allen got that one interception handed to him...almost literally; but that was on Rodgers, not Clifton. Rookie RT Bryan Bulaga, filling in admirably for the still injured Mark Tauscher, also held up his end of the line. All together, the Packers offensive line held up well, and that was a big difference over last season's two meetings with the funky purple folks. The only disappointment, as Rodgers himself noted, was that Donald Driver was unable to get a catch, snapping his 133 consecutive game streak. Hampered as he was with a quad injury, it was to Driver's credit that he was even on the field. Warrior. That's Donald Driver. And that was this entire Packers team last evening.
Ol' #4 for the 'Queens was also looking very old limping out of Lambeau. He got knocked around quite a bit last night, something that didn't happen at all in the meetings of last year. Sure, there was only one sack recorded (by Jarius Wynn, who just recently rejoined the team). But C. J. Wilson got a great lick on Favre, and Clay Matthews was breathing down his neck most of the night. All that pressure led, not surprisingly, to Favre mistakes. Interceptions by A. J. Hawk, Desmond Bishop (returned for a TD!) and an acrobatic Nick Collins (who promised his young son he'd get a pick in the game) helped turn the game in favor of the Pack.
Favre was feeling and looking every bit the grandfather he is as he left to a mix of applause and boos (bad show on that note, by the way, fans). Favre said in his post-game comments that he was "devastated" by the loss. With all the off-the-field mess going on around him, this was -- to quote Packers' radio voice, Wayne Larrivee -- no doubt a "dagger" that he was looking to avoid.
Think about it. Favre's last time on the field as a Packer was a loss. And now, in all likelihood, his last time on this hallowed field as a player is also a loss. Ouch. Hopefully, when all the dust settles and time soothes the wounds on both sides of things, Brett will be welcomed back to Lambeau Field with cheers, the same kind he brought to life for so many years wearing the Green 'n' Gold. It will happen again someday. But on this night, before the third-largest crowd to ever see a game at this historic venue called Lambeau Field, the cheers rightly went to the home team for an outstanding and gutsy win.
Now, the Packers have a day off and then begin to get ready for their next opponent: the Jets. On the road. The Jets are, at this stage of the season, arguably one of the better teams in the league. The Packers are still beat up. Going on the road and winning after this emotional victory will be a challenge. But we can at least now be confident that this team knows how to face such challenges and come out on top.
Let's just enjoy this victory a while longer. We'll get back to worrying about the Jets later this week.
Say it with me: It's great to be a Packer fan!
By the way, if you want to read a great article on last night's game, check out this one from Gregg Rosenthal at ProFootballTalk.com. But whatever you do, be sure to read the comments which follow. Priceless.
This was a much-needed win, a character win, as they say. What else can you call a game where you overcome two turnovers by your own QB in or near the red zone by getting three interceptions of your own and holding the opponent scoreless in the final 15 minutes of play? Where you have only one of your starting defensive lineman still playing at the end of the game? Where backups on offense and defense -- in some cases, players way down on the depth charts -- had to perform at a level and on a national stage they never had before?
Yes, character. That's what this game was about. Granted, it was also about getting a win against a divisional opponent that the Pack will be battling for the NFC North title (yes, we are writing off Da Bearz and Lions as contenders...I mean, c'mon...). But a game like this can go a long way to bringing a team together perhaps in a way which nothing else can. Injuries have made the journey to the playoffs and Super Bowl not what anyone expected prior to the start of the season. The games to date have not been pretty. And a couple were giftwrapped for the opponent. Last evening had it's ugly moments as well. How many times, for example, were Aaron Rodgers and his receivers running apparently different plays? Looked occasionally as if Rodgers was using the Jay Cutler Pocket Guide to Being a Mediocre Quarterback. But he threw for nearly 300 yards. And many of his passes that were on target were, dare I say, Favre-esque in their zippiness (is that a word?). In his post-game comments, Rodgers admitted the game meant not only a lot to the team but to him personally. I bet. Exorcising the ghost of quarterbacks past is no small thing. Especially in Green Bay.
Rodgers and company did enough on offense, despite missing opportunities to score which has been an unsettling and ongoing trend to date. Head coach Mike McCarthy mixed up his play calling enough to keep the ViQueens defense from blitzing on every play. The running backs made just enough contributions. Veteran TE Donald Lee came up large on two screen passes. And WR James Jones was the receiver du jour, also making big plays. Huge kudos to LT Chad Clifton who made 'Queens DE Jared Allen a non-factor. Yes, Allen got that one interception handed to him...almost literally; but that was on Rodgers, not Clifton. Rookie RT Bryan Bulaga, filling in admirably for the still injured Mark Tauscher, also held up his end of the line. All together, the Packers offensive line held up well, and that was a big difference over last season's two meetings with the funky purple folks. The only disappointment, as Rodgers himself noted, was that Donald Driver was unable to get a catch, snapping his 133 consecutive game streak. Hampered as he was with a quad injury, it was to Driver's credit that he was even on the field. Warrior. That's Donald Driver. And that was this entire Packers team last evening.
Ol' #4 for the 'Queens was also looking very old limping out of Lambeau. He got knocked around quite a bit last night, something that didn't happen at all in the meetings of last year. Sure, there was only one sack recorded (by Jarius Wynn, who just recently rejoined the team). But C. J. Wilson got a great lick on Favre, and Clay Matthews was breathing down his neck most of the night. All that pressure led, not surprisingly, to Favre mistakes. Interceptions by A. J. Hawk, Desmond Bishop (returned for a TD!) and an acrobatic Nick Collins (who promised his young son he'd get a pick in the game) helped turn the game in favor of the Pack.
Favre was feeling and looking every bit the grandfather he is as he left to a mix of applause and boos (bad show on that note, by the way, fans). Favre said in his post-game comments that he was "devastated" by the loss. With all the off-the-field mess going on around him, this was -- to quote Packers' radio voice, Wayne Larrivee -- no doubt a "dagger" that he was looking to avoid.
Think about it. Favre's last time on the field as a Packer was a loss. And now, in all likelihood, his last time on this hallowed field as a player is also a loss. Ouch. Hopefully, when all the dust settles and time soothes the wounds on both sides of things, Brett will be welcomed back to Lambeau Field with cheers, the same kind he brought to life for so many years wearing the Green 'n' Gold. It will happen again someday. But on this night, before the third-largest crowd to ever see a game at this historic venue called Lambeau Field, the cheers rightly went to the home team for an outstanding and gutsy win.
Now, the Packers have a day off and then begin to get ready for their next opponent: the Jets. On the road. The Jets are, at this stage of the season, arguably one of the better teams in the league. The Packers are still beat up. Going on the road and winning after this emotional victory will be a challenge. But we can at least now be confident that this team knows how to face such challenges and come out on top.
Let's just enjoy this victory a while longer. We'll get back to worrying about the Jets later this week.
Say it with me: It's great to be a Packer fan!
By the way, if you want to read a great article on last night's game, check out this one from Gregg Rosenthal at ProFootballTalk.com. But whatever you do, be sure to read the comments which follow. Priceless.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Packers outlast Vikings 28-24
The Green Bay Packers finally won a close one. A very close one. They held on to beat the arch-rival Minnesota Vikings by a score of 28-24. But it came down to an incompletion on a desperation throw by Ol' #4 in the waning seconds before the Packers' victory became clear.
It was a wild game, with 2 interceptions thrown by Packers QB Aaron Rodgers and 3 INTs thrown by Brett Favre.
There will be more analysis and comment coming in the day ahead. For now, as Packer fans, let's just really savor this one. The Pack sent Ol' #4 packing indeed; shuffling out of Lambeau Field, likely for the last time as a player, with a loss. Finally.
The Packers, at 4-3, now sit atop the NFC North tied with Da Bearz who lost today versus the Redskins.
It's great to be a Packer fan!!!
It was a wild game, with 2 interceptions thrown by Packers QB Aaron Rodgers and 3 INTs thrown by Brett Favre.
There will be more analysis and comment coming in the day ahead. For now, as Packer fans, let's just really savor this one. The Pack sent Ol' #4 packing indeed; shuffling out of Lambeau Field, likely for the last time as a player, with a loss. Finally.
The Packers, at 4-3, now sit atop the NFC North tied with Da Bearz who lost today versus the Redskins.
It's great to be a Packer fan!!!
Packers vs. Vikings: Sunday eve Favremageddon
Installment #3 of the duel between the Green Bay Packers and the Ol' #4-led Minnesota ViQueens kicks off at 7:20 p.m. tonight at Lambeau Field. The Packers are favored by 3 points -- the home field advantage. Temps will be in the mid-50s, great for late October. Showers are expected to taper off. If rain persists, it may turn the event into a running game...which would favor the 'Queens and RB Adrian Peterson. Especially since the Packers' running game has basically been put on the back burner of head coach Mike McCarthy's play calling, despite his protestations to the contrary. One of the keys to this game, though, is really about keeping Peterson contained more so than getting the moribund (look it up!) running game of the Packers going. Keep Peterson in check, as the Pack did in their two games last season, make Ol' #4 have to throw the ball, get pressure on him -- as the Pack did not in their two games last season -- and that will go a long way to determining the outcome of this game.
On the flip side, Packers' QB Aaron Rodgers has to play better than he did against his counterpart in the two meetings of last season. It would help, of course, if his offensive line also protected him better than it did then. 'Queens DE Jared Allen isn't the sack machine he was a year ago and tonight is no time for him to begin reprising that role. Chad Clifton and Bryan Bulaga -- likely getting the start at tackle again for Mark Tauscher -- will have to be on their game. Rodgers, for his part, needs to get rid of the ball more quickly than when these teams last met. Of late, he seems to have reverted a bit to this old habit which could come back to haunt him and the Pack. Let's hope not. RB Brandon Jackson and whomever else coach McCarthy tosses in to run a few times need to do enough to keep the Minnesota defense honest and out of a constant blitz barrage. Rodgers and his receivers also need to do a much better job of converting third downs. To date, that has been a situation which has contributed directly to the Pack's three losses. If it's the same old tune tonight...well, that wouldn't be good.
The Packers' defense should get a boost from having linebackers Brandon Chillar and Clay Matthews back in the lineup, along with DE Ryan Pickett. All three are still listed as questionable on the Packers' injury report, but expectations are that they will see action. Matthews is obviously critical to getting pressure on Favre. And Chillar's ability to cover over the middle will also play a role in the defense's success tonight. Pickett's ability to anchor the end of the line will also be key to helping contain Peterson. The news on the return to practice of CB Al Harris and S Atari Bigby this week was a plus, but no moves were made to make them active as of yet. Newly-acquired S Anthony Smith should see some action today backing up Charlie Peprah.
Special teams? Well...containing Minnesota returner Percy Harvin will be a challenge. And if they don't that could be the difference between winning and losing this game. Add in the need by punter Tim Masthay to do a much better job than he has done recently in helping the Packers manage the opponents' starting field position and this is still a major area of concern.
What's the bottom line? For a lot of reasons, the Packers need to win this game. The season is not done, however, if they don't. But getting the 'Queens at Lambeau, with a distracted (we hope) Brett Favre, and with a healthier (relatively speaking) defense, is a plus. If the Packers offense can just put 4 quarters of consistent effort across, the Pack should take this game. But it will be close. Very close, as most of the games between these two teams are.
I'm calling it 24-23 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
SNL parodies Favre
If you happened to catch Saturday Night Live last night, you saw them lampoon Ol' #4's recent alleged "incident," so to speak. They created a parody of Favre's Wrangler Jeans ads (which, by the way, Wrangler has pulled from airing recently) which is spot-on. If you didn't catch it, you can see it here. Very funny. But also very sad for the QB who once was known for something other than this.
On the flip side, Packers' QB Aaron Rodgers has to play better than he did against his counterpart in the two meetings of last season. It would help, of course, if his offensive line also protected him better than it did then. 'Queens DE Jared Allen isn't the sack machine he was a year ago and tonight is no time for him to begin reprising that role. Chad Clifton and Bryan Bulaga -- likely getting the start at tackle again for Mark Tauscher -- will have to be on their game. Rodgers, for his part, needs to get rid of the ball more quickly than when these teams last met. Of late, he seems to have reverted a bit to this old habit which could come back to haunt him and the Pack. Let's hope not. RB Brandon Jackson and whomever else coach McCarthy tosses in to run a few times need to do enough to keep the Minnesota defense honest and out of a constant blitz barrage. Rodgers and his receivers also need to do a much better job of converting third downs. To date, that has been a situation which has contributed directly to the Pack's three losses. If it's the same old tune tonight...well, that wouldn't be good.
The Packers' defense should get a boost from having linebackers Brandon Chillar and Clay Matthews back in the lineup, along with DE Ryan Pickett. All three are still listed as questionable on the Packers' injury report, but expectations are that they will see action. Matthews is obviously critical to getting pressure on Favre. And Chillar's ability to cover over the middle will also play a role in the defense's success tonight. Pickett's ability to anchor the end of the line will also be key to helping contain Peterson. The news on the return to practice of CB Al Harris and S Atari Bigby this week was a plus, but no moves were made to make them active as of yet. Newly-acquired S Anthony Smith should see some action today backing up Charlie Peprah.
Special teams? Well...containing Minnesota returner Percy Harvin will be a challenge. And if they don't that could be the difference between winning and losing this game. Add in the need by punter Tim Masthay to do a much better job than he has done recently in helping the Packers manage the opponents' starting field position and this is still a major area of concern.
What's the bottom line? For a lot of reasons, the Packers need to win this game. The season is not done, however, if they don't. But getting the 'Queens at Lambeau, with a distracted (we hope) Brett Favre, and with a healthier (relatively speaking) defense, is a plus. If the Packers offense can just put 4 quarters of consistent effort across, the Pack should take this game. But it will be close. Very close, as most of the games between these two teams are.
I'm calling it 24-23 Packers.
Go Pack Go!!!
SNL parodies Favre
If you happened to catch Saturday Night Live last night, you saw them lampoon Ol' #4's recent alleged "incident," so to speak. They created a parody of Favre's Wrangler Jeans ads (which, by the way, Wrangler has pulled from airing recently) which is spot-on. If you didn't catch it, you can see it here. Very funny. But also very sad for the QB who once was known for something other than this.
Friday, October 22, 2010
A long week for Packer fans; Vikings come to Lambeau Field
This week has been a long one for fans of the Green Bay Packers. Coming off a second 3-point overtime loss in two consecutive weeks can suck the life right out of you. Couple that with the other 3-point loss of the season -- to Da Bearz, no less! -- and...well...it's been a tough start to the season, to say the least.
From what was expected to be a Super Bowl-caliber team to one which can't put four good quarters together in a single game, the 2010 edition of the Pack has yet to find its stride. That's not something that should be happening in the 7th week of the NFL season. Coaching begins to be called into question when you see the same problems cropping up over and over again, game after game. And let's not even start the debate over trades vs. drafting to build a championship-capable roster.
Yet, the good news is, the rest of the NFL is nearly equally as inept at this point. Within the NFC North, we're just a game behind Chicago (yeah, go figure), and a game up on the ViQueens. That other team, the Lions, is still at the bottom...although lest we forget, they gave the Pack a serious run for the money during their visit to Lambeau.
The tale of the late-game stats
There's a disquieting stat which has started to show up in some reports. Namely, that since Aaron Rodgers took over as the starting QB in 2008, the Packers are 1-11 in the 12 games that have been decided since then by four points or less. The lone victory, by the way, was in that game earlier this season against the Lions. Just as a point of reference, from 1992-2007 (is this even fair???), Ol' #4 was 33-30 in games (including playoffs) decided by 4 points or less.
Now, this is not about bashing Rodgers, although right now he's certainly not performing like the QB we saw last season either. You win as a team and lose as a team, and certainly the Packers of late have found more ways to do the latter than the former. The inability of the Packers to close out opponents when they've had opportunities to do so has come back to haunt them time and again. As has the Packers' woeful 4th quarter and overtime scoring ability: opponents have outscored the Pack 52-24 in that critical time range.
Now, as Ol' #4 and his ViQueen teammates come to Lambeau, the Pack can either get their season back on track, or continue to slide into the abyss of mediocrity. The good news is that a few players, CB Al Harris, S Atari Bigby and RB James Starks are back at practice after having come off the PUP list. According to reports, Harris looks as if he'll be the most ready to see action on Sunday. Even better, LB Clay Matthews looks as if he'll be ready to go on Sunday, as will DE Ryan Pickett. And GM Ted Thompson actually executed a trade -- a trade! -- after the loss to Miami to pick up S Anthony Smith from the Jaguars for a conditional 7th round pick. None of that matters, however, if the Packers can't get pressure on Favre. They didn't in either of the two games last season and he ate the Pack for lunch.
It's expected that the 'Queens will try to rely more on RB Adrian Peterson. Don't forget Randy Moss. And certainly don't forget Percy Harvin who is not only a solid receiving threat but also a very dangerous return man. And with special teams being as bad as they are for the Packers -- and a punter who may be on the verge of losing a job -- Harvin is not somebody you want to see get loose on a return.
We'll have more to say in the way of a preview before Sunday's game. Keep checking back.
From what was expected to be a Super Bowl-caliber team to one which can't put four good quarters together in a single game, the 2010 edition of the Pack has yet to find its stride. That's not something that should be happening in the 7th week of the NFL season. Coaching begins to be called into question when you see the same problems cropping up over and over again, game after game. And let's not even start the debate over trades vs. drafting to build a championship-capable roster.
Yet, the good news is, the rest of the NFL is nearly equally as inept at this point. Within the NFC North, we're just a game behind Chicago (yeah, go figure), and a game up on the ViQueens. That other team, the Lions, is still at the bottom...although lest we forget, they gave the Pack a serious run for the money during their visit to Lambeau.
The tale of the late-game stats
There's a disquieting stat which has started to show up in some reports. Namely, that since Aaron Rodgers took over as the starting QB in 2008, the Packers are 1-11 in the 12 games that have been decided since then by four points or less. The lone victory, by the way, was in that game earlier this season against the Lions. Just as a point of reference, from 1992-2007 (is this even fair???), Ol' #4 was 33-30 in games (including playoffs) decided by 4 points or less.
Now, this is not about bashing Rodgers, although right now he's certainly not performing like the QB we saw last season either. You win as a team and lose as a team, and certainly the Packers of late have found more ways to do the latter than the former. The inability of the Packers to close out opponents when they've had opportunities to do so has come back to haunt them time and again. As has the Packers' woeful 4th quarter and overtime scoring ability: opponents have outscored the Pack 52-24 in that critical time range.
Now, as Ol' #4 and his ViQueen teammates come to Lambeau, the Pack can either get their season back on track, or continue to slide into the abyss of mediocrity. The good news is that a few players, CB Al Harris, S Atari Bigby and RB James Starks are back at practice after having come off the PUP list. According to reports, Harris looks as if he'll be the most ready to see action on Sunday. Even better, LB Clay Matthews looks as if he'll be ready to go on Sunday, as will DE Ryan Pickett. And GM Ted Thompson actually executed a trade -- a trade! -- after the loss to Miami to pick up S Anthony Smith from the Jaguars for a conditional 7th round pick. None of that matters, however, if the Packers can't get pressure on Favre. They didn't in either of the two games last season and he ate the Pack for lunch.
It's expected that the 'Queens will try to rely more on RB Adrian Peterson. Don't forget Randy Moss. And certainly don't forget Percy Harvin who is not only a solid receiving threat but also a very dangerous return man. And with special teams being as bad as they are for the Packers -- and a punter who may be on the verge of losing a job -- Harvin is not somebody you want to see get loose on a return.
We'll have more to say in the way of a preview before Sunday's game. Keep checking back.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Packers lose 2nd OT game in 2 weeks
For the second time in two weeks, the Green Bay Packers lost a game in overtime. Last week it was to the Redskins. Today, the much depleted Packers dropped a game to the Miami Dolphins 23-20. In the process, the Pack failed to gain on Da Bearz, who lost by the same score to the Seahawks in Chicago.
More review will be forthcoming in the next day or so. For now, the Pack did better than I expected them to. And when you get that close, you want the win, of course.
The Packers are now 1 for 6 in overtimes under head coach Mike McCarthy and starting QB Aaron Rodgers is now 1 for 5 in OT.
At least Da Bearz lost. And the Badgers beat Ohio State last night. And just maybe Wisconsin home state QB Tony Romo can engineer a win for the 'Boys against the ViQueens in the HumpDome. That would help soothe the pain of back-to-back Packer losses...overtime losses.
More review will be forthcoming in the next day or so. For now, the Pack did better than I expected them to. And when you get that close, you want the win, of course.
The Packers are now 1 for 6 in overtimes under head coach Mike McCarthy and starting QB Aaron Rodgers is now 1 for 5 in OT.
At least Da Bearz lost. And the Badgers beat Ohio State last night. And just maybe Wisconsin home state QB Tony Romo can engineer a win for the 'Boys against the ViQueens in the HumpDome. That would help soothe the pain of back-to-back Packer losses...overtime losses.
Packers vs. Dolphins Preview
The Miami Dolphins pay a visit to Lambeau Field today to meet the Green Bay Packers. The Fish are 2-2, the Pack 3-2. Believe it or not, the Dolphins lead the all-time series 9-3. But today, the Packers are listed as 3-1/2 point favorites, basically as a result of the home field advantage.
The Dolphins come in healthy and off their bye week. The NFL schedulers really dropped a gift in their laps by having them visit Green Bay on a balmy 60-degree mid-October day. (Gee, couldn't it have been in mid-December? What's a couple months among friends, right?)
But the Pack, as the entire football world is aware, has...oh...just a few injury issues to deal with. On both sides of the ball. And that will undoubtedly affect the game. A few players on defense that could perhaps play -- e.g., Clay Matthews and Ryan Pickett -- probably won't. This is a non-division, non-conference game. It won't figure in most tiebreaker situations. Not that you don't always want to get the "W". But when do you want Matthews and others available? For the Fish? Or next weekend versus the ViQueens? Please. Let's get 'em as healthy as possible for the game against the 'Queens.
While it's not final until gametime, QB Aaron Rodgers is expected to get the OK to play. That's a big plus for the offense, although the game plan likely won't feature the emphasis on the play of the tight ends quite as much with the loss of Jermichael Finley and, possibly for this game, Donald Lee, although he's listed as "probable" on the injury list. The wide receivers will need to do a much better job than they did against Washington, where they had seven dropped passes. On the line, rookie Bryan Bulaga will once again get the start at right tackle in place of an ailing Mark Tauscher.
And the running game? Wha-a-a...??? The Pack has a running game? Yes, it just hasn't been counted on much this season -- especially after the first-game loss of Ryan Grant -- so no reason to expect that to change now. As a matter of fact, there's a good article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about head coach Mike McCarthy's commitment, or lack thereof, to the running game. Great insights into the coach's mindset, using his own words to have a look inside, so to speak.
As for the Packers' defense, that's where the injuries will show up against a capable Fish offense. The absence of Matthews, Pickett, Brandon Chillar and Nick Barnett (who is done for the season) leave the Pack with basically its second unit linebacking corps and perhaps even rookie C. J. Wilson starting on the line for the still-injured Mike Neal. The Fish have a two-headed running attack with Ronnie Brown and Rickie "One Toke Over the Line" Williams. The primary receiving threat is Brandon Marshall, who is a good one. Starting QB Chad Henne has a strong arm but is a bit cumbersome in the pocket and, in only his second season as a starting QB, still locks onto receivers a bit too often. If the Packers could generate any pash rush today they could create some turnovers. But against a very good offensive line, and with the Pack's best pass rushers out, that type of rush doesn't seem very likely.
The Dolphins got beat 41-14 in their game versus New England the week before their bye. Thirty-five of the Patriots' points came in the second half. Hmmm...considering that the Packers seem to have a second-half drop off in most games so far this season, that certainly doesn't mean much.
Given that the Packers' special teams are yet again in flux because of the injuries to key players and the movement of some special teams players into those starting or key back up roles, don't count on much out of this unit today. But again, we haven't really counted on much from them most of the season. So anything we get in the way of returns from Tramon Williams, Jordy Nelson or whomever the coaches decide to throw back there today is a bonus. On the flip side, it's possible coverage units could give up big yardage because of the new mix of players.
Could the Pack rise to the occasion, kind of like a wounded rogue elephant, and pull out a victory at home today? It's possible. But I think the injury situation for the Packers just might be too much to overcome. The Packers have lost -- given away -- two games they should have won. Here's a game today that, by all counts, they should probably lose.
This game is one of those toss-up games for me. My head says the Fish will swim out of Lambeau with a victory because of the state of the triage unit known as the Packers. My heart, of course, bleeds Green 'n' Gold and says somehow, someway, the Pack will get a much-needed "W". This is one time when a score prediction eludes me. It's much more basic than that.
Go Pack Go!!!
The Dolphins come in healthy and off their bye week. The NFL schedulers really dropped a gift in their laps by having them visit Green Bay on a balmy 60-degree mid-October day. (Gee, couldn't it have been in mid-December? What's a couple months among friends, right?)
But the Pack, as the entire football world is aware, has...oh...just a few injury issues to deal with. On both sides of the ball. And that will undoubtedly affect the game. A few players on defense that could perhaps play -- e.g., Clay Matthews and Ryan Pickett -- probably won't. This is a non-division, non-conference game. It won't figure in most tiebreaker situations. Not that you don't always want to get the "W". But when do you want Matthews and others available? For the Fish? Or next weekend versus the ViQueens? Please. Let's get 'em as healthy as possible for the game against the 'Queens.
While it's not final until gametime, QB Aaron Rodgers is expected to get the OK to play. That's a big plus for the offense, although the game plan likely won't feature the emphasis on the play of the tight ends quite as much with the loss of Jermichael Finley and, possibly for this game, Donald Lee, although he's listed as "probable" on the injury list. The wide receivers will need to do a much better job than they did against Washington, where they had seven dropped passes. On the line, rookie Bryan Bulaga will once again get the start at right tackle in place of an ailing Mark Tauscher.
And the running game? Wha-a-a...??? The Pack has a running game? Yes, it just hasn't been counted on much this season -- especially after the first-game loss of Ryan Grant -- so no reason to expect that to change now. As a matter of fact, there's a good article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about head coach Mike McCarthy's commitment, or lack thereof, to the running game. Great insights into the coach's mindset, using his own words to have a look inside, so to speak.
As for the Packers' defense, that's where the injuries will show up against a capable Fish offense. The absence of Matthews, Pickett, Brandon Chillar and Nick Barnett (who is done for the season) leave the Pack with basically its second unit linebacking corps and perhaps even rookie C. J. Wilson starting on the line for the still-injured Mike Neal. The Fish have a two-headed running attack with Ronnie Brown and Rickie "One Toke Over the Line" Williams. The primary receiving threat is Brandon Marshall, who is a good one. Starting QB Chad Henne has a strong arm but is a bit cumbersome in the pocket and, in only his second season as a starting QB, still locks onto receivers a bit too often. If the Packers could generate any pash rush today they could create some turnovers. But against a very good offensive line, and with the Pack's best pass rushers out, that type of rush doesn't seem very likely.
The Dolphins got beat 41-14 in their game versus New England the week before their bye. Thirty-five of the Patriots' points came in the second half. Hmmm...considering that the Packers seem to have a second-half drop off in most games so far this season, that certainly doesn't mean much.
Given that the Packers' special teams are yet again in flux because of the injuries to key players and the movement of some special teams players into those starting or key back up roles, don't count on much out of this unit today. But again, we haven't really counted on much from them most of the season. So anything we get in the way of returns from Tramon Williams, Jordy Nelson or whomever the coaches decide to throw back there today is a bonus. On the flip side, it's possible coverage units could give up big yardage because of the new mix of players.
Could the Pack rise to the occasion, kind of like a wounded rogue elephant, and pull out a victory at home today? It's possible. But I think the injury situation for the Packers just might be too much to overcome. The Packers have lost -- given away -- two games they should have won. Here's a game today that, by all counts, they should probably lose.
This game is one of those toss-up games for me. My head says the Fish will swim out of Lambeau with a victory because of the state of the triage unit known as the Packers. My heart, of course, bleeds Green 'n' Gold and says somehow, someway, the Pack will get a much-needed "W". This is one time when a score prediction eludes me. It's much more basic than that.
Go Pack Go!!!
Friday, October 15, 2010
For the Packers, the bad news just keeps coming: Barnett on IR
The Green Bay Packers wound up doing today what has been anticipated for at least the last week: they placed starting LB Nick Barnett on injured reserve following his wrist surgery Wednesday. This is the second time in three years that Barnett's season has been cut short with injury. Understandably, Barnett tweeted this morning, and I quote, ":-( f#%^*". And he added, ":-( f......k".
Guess that not only sums up Barnett's frame of mind today but that of many if not most Packer fans regarding not only the loss of Barnett but the entire injury situation with the Pack. Lost for the season, of course, are RB Ryan Grant, S Morgan Burnett, S Derrick Martin, and DE Justin Harrell. The jury is still out on TE Jermichael Finley, but given that he will be out perhaps 8 weeks at least, the Packers might just decide to shut him down for the season, as well, to open up a roster spot in a roster that has quickly been depleted only about a third of the way into the NFL season.
Here's a quick look -- unofficial -- at the Pack's injury status:
Obviously, the plethora (look it up!) of injuries which have hit the Packers will not only impact this Sunday's game against the Fish, but the remainder of the season. Whether or not the young and untested players can rise to the occasion will determine to a great extent whether or not the Pack will make the playoffs. Two-thirds of the season remains. But the bye week is still a month off. The coaching staff will have to be very wise as to who, how and when they utilize the members of the roster. Special teams coach Shawn Slocum is having to scramble to fill spots on his squads because a number of those regulars are now being called upon to fill more pressing spots on offense and defense. So a weak spot on the team has become even weaker. Oh boy...
All together now...Let us pray...
Packers re-sign DE Mike Montgomery
To fill Barnett's roster spot, the Packers wasted little time re-signing DE Mike Montgomery who was a sixth round draft choice by the Pack in the 2005 NFL Draft. He played in 56 games with eight starts during his five seasons with the team. He had signed with the ViQueens in March but was released on their final roster cutdown. He'll be wearing number 99. With rookie DE Mike Neal possibly out Sunday, and Ryan Pickett having a sore ankle, being able to plug Montgomery in immediately with a system he knows is a good re-signing by GM Ted Thompson.
Guess that not only sums up Barnett's frame of mind today but that of many if not most Packer fans regarding not only the loss of Barnett but the entire injury situation with the Pack. Lost for the season, of course, are RB Ryan Grant, S Morgan Burnett, S Derrick Martin, and DE Justin Harrell. The jury is still out on TE Jermichael Finley, but given that he will be out perhaps 8 weeks at least, the Packers might just decide to shut him down for the season, as well, to open up a roster spot in a roster that has quickly been depleted only about a third of the way into the NFL season.
Here's a quick look -- unofficial -- at the Pack's injury status:
| LB Nick Barnett | Wrist | Out for Season |
| RB Ryan Grant | Ankle | Out for Season |
| DE Justin Harrell | Knee | Out for Season |
| S Derrick Martin | Knee | Out for Season |
| S Morgan Burnett | Knee | Out for Season |
| S Atari Bigby | Knee | PUP List - eligible after Game 6 |
| CB Al Harris | Knee | PUP List - eligible after Game 6 |
| TE Jermichael Finley | Knee | Likely Out for Season |
| RT Mark Tauscher | Shoulder | Likely out for Sunday, Week to Week |
| LB Brandon Chillar | Shoulder | Has missed 2 games, may play Sunday |
| CB Sam Shields | Calf | Has missed 2 games, may play Sunday |
| TE Donald Lee | Chest Sprain | Likely out for 1-2 games |
| LB Clay Matthews | Hamstring | Likely to miss Sunday's game |
| DL Ryan Pickett | Ankle | Questionable for Sunday |
| QB Aaron Rodgers | Concussion | Probable for Sunday pending tests |
| WR Donald Driver | Quad | Probable |
| LT Chad Clifton | Knee | Probable |
| S Nick Collins | Knee | Probable |
| DL Cullen Jenkins | Hamstring/Hand | Probable |
| FB Quinn Johnson | Glute | Probable |
| DE Mike Neal | Shoulder | Questionable |
| CB Charles Woodson | Toe | Probable |
Obviously, the plethora (look it up!) of injuries which have hit the Packers will not only impact this Sunday's game against the Fish, but the remainder of the season. Whether or not the young and untested players can rise to the occasion will determine to a great extent whether or not the Pack will make the playoffs. Two-thirds of the season remains. But the bye week is still a month off. The coaching staff will have to be very wise as to who, how and when they utilize the members of the roster. Special teams coach Shawn Slocum is having to scramble to fill spots on his squads because a number of those regulars are now being called upon to fill more pressing spots on offense and defense. So a weak spot on the team has become even weaker. Oh boy...
All together now...Let us pray...
Packers re-sign DE Mike Montgomery
To fill Barnett's roster spot, the Packers wasted little time re-signing DE Mike Montgomery who was a sixth round draft choice by the Pack in the 2005 NFL Draft. He played in 56 games with eight starts during his five seasons with the team. He had signed with the ViQueens in March but was released on their final roster cutdown. He'll be wearing number 99. With rookie DE Mike Neal possibly out Sunday, and Ryan Pickett having a sore ankle, being able to plug Montgomery in immediately with a system he knows is a good re-signing by GM Ted Thompson.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Packers' Finley likely out for season
This is not the kind of news Green Bay Packers fans wanted to hear: TE Jermichael Finley may be done for the season.
Oh man. After initial reports indicated Finley might be out 3-6 weeks, Lori Nickel of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is reporting in her blog that fellow reporter Greg Bedard "has learned from a source that the surgery revealed more damage than initially thought and Finley is likely done for 2010." Reported recovery time is 8-10 weeks so team management is deciding what to do.
Oh man. Oh man...
By the way, S Derrick Martin is also done for the season.
Oh man. After initial reports indicated Finley might be out 3-6 weeks, Lori Nickel of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is reporting in her blog that fellow reporter Greg Bedard "has learned from a source that the surgery revealed more damage than initially thought and Finley is likely done for 2010." Reported recovery time is 8-10 weeks so team management is deciding what to do.
Oh man. Oh man...
By the way, S Derrick Martin is also done for the season.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
What now for the Packers?
Both local and national sports talk shows have been abuzz since Sunday discussing the injury woes of the Green Bay Packers. Expect that to continue for quite some time.
This morning, starting TE and emerging NFL star, Jermichael Finley -- a huge part of the Packers' offensive game plans -- is undergoing arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. He'll be out 3 to 6 weeks, not the 2 to 3 initially speculated here and elsewhere. Ouch. In more ways than one. TE Donald Lee is likely also out a couple weeks with a chest sprain. So we'll be seeing a lot more of the young tight ends, Andrew Quarless and Tom Crabtree.
Starting LB Nick Barnett will undergo surgery on his wrist tomorrow, after which they will be able to determine whether it's a season-ending situation (the second in three years for Barnett) or whether he can make it back. Some reports are indicating that it might be 8 weeks before Barnett could return. Given that leaves only about 2 regular season games and playoffs (assuming the Pack could actually make it given their current situation), the question then becomes whether or not GM Ted Thompson would hold that roster spot for Barnett. Given the hits nearly across the board with injuries of varying kinds, Thompson might be hard pressed to do so. It seems unlikely.
QB Aaron Rodgers will be held out of practice at least some of this week due to the concussion he suffered on Sunday. It's possible he could miss the game against Miami if he is not cleared by a third-party neurologist. Backup Matt Flynn will be preparing, as he must, as if he'll get the start.
S Derrick Martin is also out at least several weeks with a knee injury. Again, it might be a numbers game here with Thompson: hold the roster spot or put Martin on injured reserve to get a body? My guess is the latter.
The news on LB Clay Matthews was good, all things considered: his hamstring strain is not as serious as it's been in the past. Having said that, however, it's possible Matthews could still be held out of the Miami game so he's ready to go against the ViQueens (who, by the way, lost to the Jets last night in New York...or wherever that new stadium is...oh, and did I mention the 'Queens fate was sealed on -- what else? -- an interception in the closing minutes off a pass by Ol' #4? Say it with me: awwwwwwww...).
DE Ryan Pickett has an ankle sprain with no apparent timetable for playing. He could be ready to go this weekend.
On the good news front -- yes, there is at least one silver lining -- LB Brandon Chillar will practice this week and could also see action against the Dolphins.
Keep in mind, also, that S Atari Bigby, CB Al Harris and RB James Starks will technically be available to rejoin the team after this next game. But if in fact they will be activated and ready to make contributions of the kind needed right now, that's anyone's guess.
Guess it's that time, Packer fans...let us pray...
This morning, starting TE and emerging NFL star, Jermichael Finley -- a huge part of the Packers' offensive game plans -- is undergoing arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. He'll be out 3 to 6 weeks, not the 2 to 3 initially speculated here and elsewhere. Ouch. In more ways than one. TE Donald Lee is likely also out a couple weeks with a chest sprain. So we'll be seeing a lot more of the young tight ends, Andrew Quarless and Tom Crabtree.
Starting LB Nick Barnett will undergo surgery on his wrist tomorrow, after which they will be able to determine whether it's a season-ending situation (the second in three years for Barnett) or whether he can make it back. Some reports are indicating that it might be 8 weeks before Barnett could return. Given that leaves only about 2 regular season games and playoffs (assuming the Pack could actually make it given their current situation), the question then becomes whether or not GM Ted Thompson would hold that roster spot for Barnett. Given the hits nearly across the board with injuries of varying kinds, Thompson might be hard pressed to do so. It seems unlikely.
QB Aaron Rodgers will be held out of practice at least some of this week due to the concussion he suffered on Sunday. It's possible he could miss the game against Miami if he is not cleared by a third-party neurologist. Backup Matt Flynn will be preparing, as he must, as if he'll get the start.
S Derrick Martin is also out at least several weeks with a knee injury. Again, it might be a numbers game here with Thompson: hold the roster spot or put Martin on injured reserve to get a body? My guess is the latter.
The news on LB Clay Matthews was good, all things considered: his hamstring strain is not as serious as it's been in the past. Having said that, however, it's possible Matthews could still be held out of the Miami game so he's ready to go against the ViQueens (who, by the way, lost to the Jets last night in New York...or wherever that new stadium is...oh, and did I mention the 'Queens fate was sealed on -- what else? -- an interception in the closing minutes off a pass by Ol' #4? Say it with me: awwwwwwww...).
DE Ryan Pickett has an ankle sprain with no apparent timetable for playing. He could be ready to go this weekend.
On the good news front -- yes, there is at least one silver lining -- LB Brandon Chillar will practice this week and could also see action against the Dolphins.
Keep in mind, also, that S Atari Bigby, CB Al Harris and RB James Starks will technically be available to rejoin the team after this next game. But if in fact they will be activated and ready to make contributions of the kind needed right now, that's anyone's guess.
Guess it's that time, Packer fans...let us pray...
Monday, October 11, 2010
Hard week ahead for decimated Packers
Coming off a heartbreaking -- and injury-riddled -- loss in overtime to the Washington Redskins, the Green Bay Packers this week are probably going to be spending as much time getting medical evaluations as practicing.
The Pack limped into the game already having a couple starters lost for the season, namely RB Ryan Grant and S Morgan Burnett, while a decision about season-ending wrist surgery is still in the air concerning LB Nick Burnett (and just for good measure, let's remember Justin Harrell, as well, while we're on the subject). A few other players were out for the game, including RT Mark Tauscher, LB Brandon Chillar, S Sam Shields, and FB Quinn Johnson.
By the end of the game, they had lost TE Jermichael Finley (possibly for 2-3 weeks...and that's the optimistic view!), TE Donald Lee, DE Ryan Pickett, LB Clay Matthews, CB and special teams demon Derrick Martin (may be the most serious with an ankle injury), and LB Frank Zombo.
Oh yes, let's not forget the concussion which QB Aaron Rodgers sustained supposedly on his last throw (intercepted) where he clearly had head-to-head contact from the defender (with no flag at all, of course...just like the blow to the head no-call in the playoff game loss at Arizona). So in order for Rodgers to be available for the upcoming game against Miami, he's going to have to clear a number of tests before he gets the OK to play.
Ryan Pickett was quoted as saying, "I've not been part of anything like this that so many guys are injured...It's never been this bad. I've never experienced it in my 10 years."
The bottom line right now is that a team which many picked to go not only to but to win the Super Bowl based upon its talented roster now seems like it's on life support. The injuries are everywhere. Not what you want as you head into one of the toughest stretches of the schedule: Dolphins, ViQueens, Jets, and Cowgirls. It's a month before the Packers get their bye week. And, even without any other players going down, the Pack might be hard pressed to win another game before that bye week.
Yes, injuries played a big part in yesterday's loss by the Packers. You can't lose two of your top playmakers -- Finley and Matthews -- and not have it affect the outcome. But the Packers just left too many opportunities on the field. Failing to push it into the endzone when you have 1st and goal from the 2-yard line, with a chance to go up 14-0 early, just left the door open for the 'skins to hang around. It never should have come down to K Mason Crosby needing to hit a 53-yarder at the close of regulation to win that game. Never. Yes, he was 2 of 4 on the day and needs to make those kicks. But the Pack also needs to convert 3rd downs -- they didn't -- and not give their opponent multiple 1st downs through penalties.
And when, oh when, will the Packers ever get their special teams together?!
The consistent pattern we see emerging in and across games is not the pattern we want to see: fast start, followed by tailing off in the second half, little to no commitment to the running game by head coach Mike McCarthy, and continued penalties and lapses at critical junctures of a game.
Yes, as the players say, they feel they should be 5-0 right now instead of 3-2. But truth be told, they could also just as easily be 1-4 right now. The Buffalo game was the only game that has been a complete, or nearly complete, game by this team. By the time you hit game #5 of the schedule you should know who you are and what you can do and do it in a consistent way. The Packers just aren't.
Granted, the injuries started taking their toll early and often this season on the Pack. And now, it's gotten even worse. The prognosis for the immediate future is not a good one. There are still 11 games remaining. But it's possible, given the injuries let alone other problems which seem to be plaguing this team, that the Packers could go into their bye week at 3-6. They would likely have to win out in order to have a shot at the playoffs. And that's not a position in which you wish to find yourself.
The mettle of this team, coaching staff and management is going to be tested this week and over the coming month. The Packers' season could very well be riding on what happens in these next four games.
The Pack limped into the game already having a couple starters lost for the season, namely RB Ryan Grant and S Morgan Burnett, while a decision about season-ending wrist surgery is still in the air concerning LB Nick Burnett (and just for good measure, let's remember Justin Harrell, as well, while we're on the subject). A few other players were out for the game, including RT Mark Tauscher, LB Brandon Chillar, S Sam Shields, and FB Quinn Johnson.
By the end of the game, they had lost TE Jermichael Finley (possibly for 2-3 weeks...and that's the optimistic view!), TE Donald Lee, DE Ryan Pickett, LB Clay Matthews, CB and special teams demon Derrick Martin (may be the most serious with an ankle injury), and LB Frank Zombo.
Oh yes, let's not forget the concussion which QB Aaron Rodgers sustained supposedly on his last throw (intercepted) where he clearly had head-to-head contact from the defender (with no flag at all, of course...just like the blow to the head no-call in the playoff game loss at Arizona). So in order for Rodgers to be available for the upcoming game against Miami, he's going to have to clear a number of tests before he gets the OK to play.
Ryan Pickett was quoted as saying, "I've not been part of anything like this that so many guys are injured...It's never been this bad. I've never experienced it in my 10 years."
The bottom line right now is that a team which many picked to go not only to but to win the Super Bowl based upon its talented roster now seems like it's on life support. The injuries are everywhere. Not what you want as you head into one of the toughest stretches of the schedule: Dolphins, ViQueens, Jets, and Cowgirls. It's a month before the Packers get their bye week. And, even without any other players going down, the Pack might be hard pressed to win another game before that bye week.
Yes, injuries played a big part in yesterday's loss by the Packers. You can't lose two of your top playmakers -- Finley and Matthews -- and not have it affect the outcome. But the Packers just left too many opportunities on the field. Failing to push it into the endzone when you have 1st and goal from the 2-yard line, with a chance to go up 14-0 early, just left the door open for the 'skins to hang around. It never should have come down to K Mason Crosby needing to hit a 53-yarder at the close of regulation to win that game. Never. Yes, he was 2 of 4 on the day and needs to make those kicks. But the Pack also needs to convert 3rd downs -- they didn't -- and not give their opponent multiple 1st downs through penalties.
And when, oh when, will the Packers ever get their special teams together?!
The consistent pattern we see emerging in and across games is not the pattern we want to see: fast start, followed by tailing off in the second half, little to no commitment to the running game by head coach Mike McCarthy, and continued penalties and lapses at critical junctures of a game.
Yes, as the players say, they feel they should be 5-0 right now instead of 3-2. But truth be told, they could also just as easily be 1-4 right now. The Buffalo game was the only game that has been a complete, or nearly complete, game by this team. By the time you hit game #5 of the schedule you should know who you are and what you can do and do it in a consistent way. The Packers just aren't.
Granted, the injuries started taking their toll early and often this season on the Pack. And now, it's gotten even worse. The prognosis for the immediate future is not a good one. There are still 11 games remaining. But it's possible, given the injuries let alone other problems which seem to be plaguing this team, that the Packers could go into their bye week at 3-6. They would likely have to win out in order to have a shot at the playoffs. And that's not a position in which you wish to find yourself.
The mettle of this team, coaching staff and management is going to be tested this week and over the coming month. The Packers' season could very well be riding on what happens in these next four games.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Packers lose to Redskins in OT, 16-13
A sickening loss for the Green Bay Packers vs. the Washington Redskins in overtime, 16-13.
Now I know why I was so troubled in making my prediction.
The Pack has had 3 lousy games in a row, and are 1-2 in those games, to now go 3-2 on the season, now a game behind...Da Bearz, at 4-1? Ya gotta be kidding me?!
As if the Packers injury situation couldn't get any worse, they lost another 4 starters at least for today and maybe beyond. Wow.
Can't even write anymore at this point. Will have to wait until Monday or beyond before I get the bad taste of this one out of my mouth.
Now I know why I was so troubled in making my prediction.
The Pack has had 3 lousy games in a row, and are 1-2 in those games, to now go 3-2 on the season, now a game behind...Da Bearz, at 4-1? Ya gotta be kidding me?!
As if the Packers injury situation couldn't get any worse, they lost another 4 starters at least for today and maybe beyond. Wow.
Can't even write anymore at this point. Will have to wait until Monday or beyond before I get the bad taste of this one out of my mouth.
Overtime in Packers - Redskins game
The Green Bay Packers left way too many opportunities on the field, and gave the Washington Redskins an opportunity to get back in the game...and they did. K Mason Crosby had a chance to win the game in the closing seconds on a 53-yard field goal attempt which had plenty of distance, but clanged off the left upright. That was his second consecutive miss, missing a 48-yarder earlier, while making two.
Didn't have a good feeling about this game. This is why.
Packers win the toss and elect to receive.
Didn't have a good feeling about this game. This is why.
Packers win the toss and elect to receive.
Packers vs. Redskins - let's call it...
I offered my preview, for the most part, in my post of late yesterday afternoon. In today's match up between our beloved Green Bay Packers and the Washington Redskins I just have to admit that on this one...I am a bit, oh, unclear as to outcome.
It's a very strange space in which to be. The first two games of the season, I had it pretty well called. In fact, I nailed the score of both teams right on the money in the opener versus Philadelphia, had the Packers' score right on the button in the game against the Bills, and had the score of the winning team in game #3, too. Unfortunately, that score turned out to be in favor of Da Bearz not the Pack as I had anticipated. Last week, I figured coming off that horrible performance in Chicago they'd have the guns blazing and blow out Detroit at Lambeau. Didn't quite turn out that way, as the Pack were lucky to survive their many mistakes in that game and come out with a squeaker of a win.
So the performances of the last two weeks by the Pack leaves me underwhelmed, particularly with the inconsistency on offense. But if ever there was an opportunity to get things going it should be against Washington: they have the NFL's 31st-ranked pass defense. They also haven't exhibited much in the way of pressure on opposing quarterbacks. If the Packers' makeshift running game can at least keep the defense honest, QB Aaron Rodgers could and should have a big day.
Now, however, toss in to the mix the fact that the defensive unit, because of injuries, will resemble more of a preseason squad than regulars and it gives a Packer fan pause, ya know? After all, if the Lions were able to do what they did at Lambeau Field last weekend, what might the Redskins do on their home turf?
Offensively, the 'skins have enough weapons to not only test but do damage against the Pack's beat up defense. It will really take great effort on the part of the backups who are now called upon to start to keep QB Donovan McNabb in check. He's got a good tight end in Chris Cooley who could cause problems in coverage for the Pack's linebackers, who will be missing starter Nick Barnett and their best coverage linebacker, Brandon Chillar. There is also a Redskins' deep threat in WR Anthony Armstrong who caught a 57-yarder last week. And RB Ryan Torain will be getting just his second start, filling in for the injured Clinton Portis. Washington head coach Mike Shanahan drafted Torain while in Denver, and believes he is -- or can be -- a big-time running back. Let's hope that doesn't start today.
So, where does this leave us besides very confused about what to expect today? I guess nowhere. The Packers are favored by 2-1/2 points. I have the sense that it will be a high scoring game with neither defense holding serve, so to speak. Could look like some of the games we saw late last season where which team has the ball last wins. Prior to the season, I had this game going into the "W" column when giving my overall win/loss prediction. But that was before all the injuries and inconsistent play. The Pack is the better team. But over the past two weeks, especially, they haven't played like it. And with the hits to the defense this past week, they've gotten weaker. Aaron Rodgers and the offense is going to have carry the day big-time if the Pack is to come out of this game with a win. They can do it. But will they? No clue. I have just as much a sense that the Redskins could get the "W" as could the Packers. (I hate it when that happens!)
Right now, I see this game as a toss up, unfortunately. But I'll put on the Green-'n'-Gold-colored glasses and take the Packers 31-30.
Go Pack Go!!!
It's a very strange space in which to be. The first two games of the season, I had it pretty well called. In fact, I nailed the score of both teams right on the money in the opener versus Philadelphia, had the Packers' score right on the button in the game against the Bills, and had the score of the winning team in game #3, too. Unfortunately, that score turned out to be in favor of Da Bearz not the Pack as I had anticipated. Last week, I figured coming off that horrible performance in Chicago they'd have the guns blazing and blow out Detroit at Lambeau. Didn't quite turn out that way, as the Pack were lucky to survive their many mistakes in that game and come out with a squeaker of a win.
So the performances of the last two weeks by the Pack leaves me underwhelmed, particularly with the inconsistency on offense. But if ever there was an opportunity to get things going it should be against Washington: they have the NFL's 31st-ranked pass defense. They also haven't exhibited much in the way of pressure on opposing quarterbacks. If the Packers' makeshift running game can at least keep the defense honest, QB Aaron Rodgers could and should have a big day.
Now, however, toss in to the mix the fact that the defensive unit, because of injuries, will resemble more of a preseason squad than regulars and it gives a Packer fan pause, ya know? After all, if the Lions were able to do what they did at Lambeau Field last weekend, what might the Redskins do on their home turf?
Offensively, the 'skins have enough weapons to not only test but do damage against the Pack's beat up defense. It will really take great effort on the part of the backups who are now called upon to start to keep QB Donovan McNabb in check. He's got a good tight end in Chris Cooley who could cause problems in coverage for the Pack's linebackers, who will be missing starter Nick Barnett and their best coverage linebacker, Brandon Chillar. There is also a Redskins' deep threat in WR Anthony Armstrong who caught a 57-yarder last week. And RB Ryan Torain will be getting just his second start, filling in for the injured Clinton Portis. Washington head coach Mike Shanahan drafted Torain while in Denver, and believes he is -- or can be -- a big-time running back. Let's hope that doesn't start today.
So, where does this leave us besides very confused about what to expect today? I guess nowhere. The Packers are favored by 2-1/2 points. I have the sense that it will be a high scoring game with neither defense holding serve, so to speak. Could look like some of the games we saw late last season where which team has the ball last wins. Prior to the season, I had this game going into the "W" column when giving my overall win/loss prediction. But that was before all the injuries and inconsistent play. The Pack is the better team. But over the past two weeks, especially, they haven't played like it. And with the hits to the defense this past week, they've gotten weaker. Aaron Rodgers and the offense is going to have carry the day big-time if the Pack is to come out of this game with a win. They can do it. But will they? No clue. I have just as much a sense that the Redskins could get the "W" as could the Packers. (I hate it when that happens!)
Right now, I see this game as a toss up, unfortunately. But I'll put on the Green-'n'-Gold-colored glasses and take the Packers 31-30.
Go Pack Go!!!
Saturday, October 09, 2010
Packers vs. Redskins Preview
The Green Bay Packers go into Sunday's game with the Washington Redskins as a wounded team. A rash of injuries beginning in game #1 has led any number of pundits who were onboard the Packers Super Bowl train to now say...well, maybe not. Two starters, RB Ryan Grant and S Morgan Burnett, are done for the year. LB Nick Barnett is out for Sunday's game and may be done for the season pending the decision on wrist surgery. Barnett Tweeted Saturday afternoon that, "Just finished another scan.. We are getting very close to putting together a plan... Meet with dr.. So.. Things are getting closer". Hmmm...
Other injured starters and key backups on both sides of the ball mean the eight-cylinder engine is now firing on six (not exactly a football metaphor, but you get the point). LB Brandon Chillar, FB Quinn Johnson, CB Sam Shields are all listed as out for Sunday, as well. T Mark Tauscher is listed as doubtful, but most reports are projecting rookie Bryan Bulaga will get the start. To fill the other spots, such players as Desmond Bishop, Charlie Peprah and others who usually get their playing time on special teams will be called upon to fill mighty big shoes. It's their chance to show what they can do. And it will likely be that way for a while. Bishop, for his part, says he's ready.
As the Pack goes into a stretch of games starting with an improved Washington team, followed by Miami and Minnesota at Lambeau, then at the Jets, and finally back home to face the Cowboys before heading into their bye week, this game shapes up as a rather pivotal game. If the Packers can play even a semblance of a complete game on offense, they should win this game against the 'skins. Because it's likely going to take lots of points to do so given the state of the defense.
With a depleted secondary and linebacking corps, the Packers are exposed against Washington's underneath passing game using their tight ends, as well as the downfield passing game when QB Donovan McNabb wants to take his shots with their limited wide receiver corps. And, let's not forget the problem that the Packers have trying to corral scrambling quarterbacks. McNabb has generally played well against the Packers in the past and there is no reason to suspect he won't play well Sunday. The question is whether he'll have an emotional letdown after the 'skins big victory in Philly last weekend.
Washington comes in much healthier than do the Packers. The only starter out for the 'skins is RB Clinton Portis. DT Albert Haynesworth will also reportedly miss the game; his younger brother, Lance, was killed in a motorcycle accident late this last week. (Our sincere condolences to the Haynesworth family.)
The current line on the game has the Packers favored by 2-1/2 points. This is a difficult game to predict given the Packers' narrow victory at home over the Lions last weekend. Yes, the Lions are an improved team. But the Pack played very poorly in almost every phase of the game. Fortunately, the Packers were finally able to get a grind-it-out running game going to eat up the clock at the end to preserve the victory. According to all reports and comments from coaches and players alike, the feeling in the locker room afterward was one where they had to be reminded that they won the game. Perhaps that will be the motivation they need to start playing the type of football they are capable of playing, and which we have yet to see this season. Even with the injuries, players need to step up. Coaches have made it clear they are not going to change schemes because of who is and who isn't available. Do we really buy that?
The Pack will have to make to do. Whether that will be good enough to get them a win in Washington or not...?
Check here for the complete Packers "Dope Sheet" on the match up.
Check back here Sunday morning to get my final prediction. This is one I definitely need to sleep on.
Other injured starters and key backups on both sides of the ball mean the eight-cylinder engine is now firing on six (not exactly a football metaphor, but you get the point). LB Brandon Chillar, FB Quinn Johnson, CB Sam Shields are all listed as out for Sunday, as well. T Mark Tauscher is listed as doubtful, but most reports are projecting rookie Bryan Bulaga will get the start. To fill the other spots, such players as Desmond Bishop, Charlie Peprah and others who usually get their playing time on special teams will be called upon to fill mighty big shoes. It's their chance to show what they can do. And it will likely be that way for a while. Bishop, for his part, says he's ready.
As the Pack goes into a stretch of games starting with an improved Washington team, followed by Miami and Minnesota at Lambeau, then at the Jets, and finally back home to face the Cowboys before heading into their bye week, this game shapes up as a rather pivotal game. If the Packers can play even a semblance of a complete game on offense, they should win this game against the 'skins. Because it's likely going to take lots of points to do so given the state of the defense.
With a depleted secondary and linebacking corps, the Packers are exposed against Washington's underneath passing game using their tight ends, as well as the downfield passing game when QB Donovan McNabb wants to take his shots with their limited wide receiver corps. And, let's not forget the problem that the Packers have trying to corral scrambling quarterbacks. McNabb has generally played well against the Packers in the past and there is no reason to suspect he won't play well Sunday. The question is whether he'll have an emotional letdown after the 'skins big victory in Philly last weekend.
Washington comes in much healthier than do the Packers. The only starter out for the 'skins is RB Clinton Portis. DT Albert Haynesworth will also reportedly miss the game; his younger brother, Lance, was killed in a motorcycle accident late this last week. (Our sincere condolences to the Haynesworth family.)
The current line on the game has the Packers favored by 2-1/2 points. This is a difficult game to predict given the Packers' narrow victory at home over the Lions last weekend. Yes, the Lions are an improved team. But the Pack played very poorly in almost every phase of the game. Fortunately, the Packers were finally able to get a grind-it-out running game going to eat up the clock at the end to preserve the victory. According to all reports and comments from coaches and players alike, the feeling in the locker room afterward was one where they had to be reminded that they won the game. Perhaps that will be the motivation they need to start playing the type of football they are capable of playing, and which we have yet to see this season. Even with the injuries, players need to step up. Coaches have made it clear they are not going to change schemes because of who is and who isn't available. Do we really buy that?
The Pack will have to make to do. Whether that will be good enough to get them a win in Washington or not...?
Check here for the complete Packers "Dope Sheet" on the match up.
Check back here Sunday morning to get my final prediction. This is one I definitely need to sleep on.
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
Packers starting to get thin
No, Packer fans, we're not talking about some new diet regimen in the Pack's dining facility. We're addressing the fact the the roster of the Green Bay Packers is starting (continuing?) to take some hits.
Obviously, we're aware of the injuries which have carried over from last season: Al Harris, Atari Bigby, etc. Then the Pack loses Ryan Grant in the first game of the season for the season. Ditto for the perpetually-injured Justin Harrell. Rookie D-lineman Mike Neal has yet to really be available for a game. LB Brandon Chillar has been dinged up. Rookie safety Morgan Burnett was lost for the season in the game versus Detroit. And, of course, Johnny Jolly was suspended for the season before he even got a chance to get injured.
So analysts are now making the argument that the Packers' team that many thought would be ready to take a step toward the Super Bowl -- some even going so far as to say the Packers were the favorites to win the Super Bowl -- is not the team on the field now...and that changes the dynamics considerably.
Yes, even without Grant, the Pack still has a potent offense although they have yet to really establish any consistency over four quarters. But it's the defense that is starting to look thin.
Especially now that reports indicate that LB Nick Burnett could be lost for the season for the second time in three years. He's seeking a second opinion on an injured wrist so nothing final yet.
But with all the recent clamor among Packer fans over the fact that GM Ted Thompson hasn't gone after any running back help, i.e., Marshawn Lynch, we may lose sight of the fact that it's the defense that is looking vulnerable from a roster standpoint at the moment. (Oh, by the way, there is a report by Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that the Packers were in fact heavily involved in discussions with Buffalo to work a deal for Lynch. See that article for the complete details.)
So, while the Pack will be getting Harris and Bigby back in a couple weeks there's no saying exactly what that will mean. What will they be able to do and how quickly can they get up to game speed?
It's still early in the season and the Packers sit atop the NFC North with that bunch from south of the Border (that would be Chicago for the uninformed and Midwesternly-geographically-challenged). But Minnesota may -- may -- have gotten better with the acquisition today of WR Randy Moss. Either the current Packer players will need to step up if more of the starters go down...or...Thompson will need, despite his tendencies not to want to do so, to pull the trigger on a deal or deals to bolster the defense.
A quarter of the way into the season things are getting slightly more iffy than they were when the season started.
P.S. We're running a poll for the next 7 days about what you think the Packers should do in terms of their roster. You'll find it in the righthand column. Let's hear from you!
Obviously, we're aware of the injuries which have carried over from last season: Al Harris, Atari Bigby, etc. Then the Pack loses Ryan Grant in the first game of the season for the season. Ditto for the perpetually-injured Justin Harrell. Rookie D-lineman Mike Neal has yet to really be available for a game. LB Brandon Chillar has been dinged up. Rookie safety Morgan Burnett was lost for the season in the game versus Detroit. And, of course, Johnny Jolly was suspended for the season before he even got a chance to get injured.
So analysts are now making the argument that the Packers' team that many thought would be ready to take a step toward the Super Bowl -- some even going so far as to say the Packers were the favorites to win the Super Bowl -- is not the team on the field now...and that changes the dynamics considerably.
Yes, even without Grant, the Pack still has a potent offense although they have yet to really establish any consistency over four quarters. But it's the defense that is starting to look thin.
Especially now that reports indicate that LB Nick Burnett could be lost for the season for the second time in three years. He's seeking a second opinion on an injured wrist so nothing final yet.
But with all the recent clamor among Packer fans over the fact that GM Ted Thompson hasn't gone after any running back help, i.e., Marshawn Lynch, we may lose sight of the fact that it's the defense that is looking vulnerable from a roster standpoint at the moment. (Oh, by the way, there is a report by Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that the Packers were in fact heavily involved in discussions with Buffalo to work a deal for Lynch. See that article for the complete details.)
So, while the Pack will be getting Harris and Bigby back in a couple weeks there's no saying exactly what that will mean. What will they be able to do and how quickly can they get up to game speed?
It's still early in the season and the Packers sit atop the NFC North with that bunch from south of the Border (that would be Chicago for the uninformed and Midwesternly-geographically-challenged). But Minnesota may -- may -- have gotten better with the acquisition today of WR Randy Moss. Either the current Packer players will need to step up if more of the starters go down...or...Thompson will need, despite his tendencies not to want to do so, to pull the trigger on a deal or deals to bolster the defense.
A quarter of the way into the season things are getting slightly more iffy than they were when the season started.
P.S. We're running a poll for the next 7 days about what you think the Packers should do in terms of their roster. You'll find it in the righthand column. Let's hear from you!
Monday, October 04, 2010
Packers vs. Lions...Whew!
Sometimes, Packer fans, the only thing that can be said about a game is: Whew!
The Green Bay Packers narrowly hung on to garner a 28-26 victory over the Detroit Lions in Lambeau Field yesterday. For those who watched it, it was painful. We will not recount the ways; you can find all that coverage and angst elsewhere this time around. For those who didn't see it, consider yourselves blessed.
My prediction of a blowout in favor of the Pack was clearly off the mark. Apparently, there was still a bit of a hangover from the Monday night loss to Da Bearz. And, also apparently, Detroit does have more ability than perhaps they've been given credit for. When some of the people they are currently missing from the lineup return, they could actually be a dangerous team now and then. They are very close. But, as their mistakes revealed on Sunday, not yet close enough.
What can the Packers take out of this game? Besides the "W" and a share of the lead in the NFC North with Da Bearz, who lost to the Giants last night (yeah!), the Pack might also be able to recognize their vulnerability on defense to the dink and dunk offenses that show up during a game, their difficulty handling scrambling quarterbacks, and the fact that they can win a game -- or, at least, put one away -- with the running game when they need to. Granted, there's nothing flashy about it, and there is little to no threat of a Packers' running back taking one to the house from a long way out. But they can grind it out. Perhaps, that's at least one area of good news emerging through the ugly games of the past two weeks.
Other than that....whew!
The Green Bay Packers narrowly hung on to garner a 28-26 victory over the Detroit Lions in Lambeau Field yesterday. For those who watched it, it was painful. We will not recount the ways; you can find all that coverage and angst elsewhere this time around. For those who didn't see it, consider yourselves blessed.
My prediction of a blowout in favor of the Pack was clearly off the mark. Apparently, there was still a bit of a hangover from the Monday night loss to Da Bearz. And, also apparently, Detroit does have more ability than perhaps they've been given credit for. When some of the people they are currently missing from the lineup return, they could actually be a dangerous team now and then. They are very close. But, as their mistakes revealed on Sunday, not yet close enough.
What can the Packers take out of this game? Besides the "W" and a share of the lead in the NFC North with Da Bearz, who lost to the Giants last night (yeah!), the Pack might also be able to recognize their vulnerability on defense to the dink and dunk offenses that show up during a game, their difficulty handling scrambling quarterbacks, and the fact that they can win a game -- or, at least, put one away -- with the running game when they need to. Granted, there's nothing flashy about it, and there is little to no threat of a Packers' running back taking one to the house from a long way out. But they can grind it out. Perhaps, that's at least one area of good news emerging through the ugly games of the past two weeks.
Other than that....whew!
Sunday, October 03, 2010
Packers vs. Lions Preview
First, Packer fans, in the interest of full disclosure I offer the following: due to my own schedule this weekend, I'm writing this a few days ahead of time. So it's possible some things might change between now and noon Sunday. But one thing that won't change will be the outcome. The Green Bay Packers will take out a Monday night hangover on the Lions. It should be pointed out, by the way, that the Lions haven't beaten the Packers in Green Bay since before Brett Favre was the Pack's starting QB...and that's now two teams ago! (For the stat geeks out there, that would be 1991.)
Anyway, currently the spread has the Pack favored by 14.5 points. That's the biggest spread of the weekend, folks, and generally when things get that out of whack it doesn't pan out so well. But you just have to believe that after their disappointing showing in ChiTown Monday evening, and now back on home turf, the Pack will play like the team they are and take out their frustrations on the guys from MoTown.
There really aren't many phases of the game which favor Detroit. They have a good defensive line and a good rookie running back, but the latter is a bit hobbled with turf toe. Starting QB Matthew Stafford is still out and replacement Shaun Hill is the Lions equivalent of Trent Edwards. We already know how well he fared at Lambeau. Hill doesn't have the arm to allow the Lions to take advantage of some of their receivers' abilities. Bad for them, good for us.
Detroit, as I noted in my review of Da Bearz game, is just what the doctor ordered for the Pack to get back on track.
I'm calling this one 38-10 in favor of the Pack.
Go Pack Go!!!
Anyway, currently the spread has the Pack favored by 14.5 points. That's the biggest spread of the weekend, folks, and generally when things get that out of whack it doesn't pan out so well. But you just have to believe that after their disappointing showing in ChiTown Monday evening, and now back on home turf, the Pack will play like the team they are and take out their frustrations on the guys from MoTown.
There really aren't many phases of the game which favor Detroit. They have a good defensive line and a good rookie running back, but the latter is a bit hobbled with turf toe. Starting QB Matthew Stafford is still out and replacement Shaun Hill is the Lions equivalent of Trent Edwards. We already know how well he fared at Lambeau. Hill doesn't have the arm to allow the Lions to take advantage of some of their receivers' abilities. Bad for them, good for us.
Detroit, as I noted in my review of Da Bearz game, is just what the doctor ordered for the Pack to get back on track.
I'm calling this one 38-10 in favor of the Pack.
Go Pack Go!!!
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