Can we just play the dang game!

By the time kickoff arrives on Sunday, the Pack -- and we fans -- will be more than ready for action. In fact, they're -- and we're -- already to roll. Can't we just play the dang Super Bowl already?!

This week is being filled with all sorts of stories. The game almost seems secondary at the moment. It's not, of course. It's the main thing. But what can you do to fill the void but look at past Super Bowl games, players, and so on. Also stories of the teams' fans. Some great stories on the national scene about how the Packers' fans are just...different. As if we didn't know that already. Lots of angles on the last-remaining small town team in the NFL, a community-owned team (approx. 112,000 shareholders...yours truly among them), a non-profit corporation besides. In fact, did you know that there is an NFL bylaw which now precludes the type of ownership and corporation which the Packers have? True.

Cosmic Debris
And in the miscellaneous and unrelated info category...

• ESPN's Mel Kiper, Jr. this morning talked about how many teams are now regretting passing up drafting Aaron Rodgers. Ya think? Remember that as close as a week or so before the draft Rodgers was being discussed as a possible #1 pick. We all know -- thankfully for the Packers -- that he dropped mysteriously to #24 where Ted Thompson just had to take him. What a gift! Kiper noted that the ViQueens took two players ahead of Rodgers, both of whom are busts. The Redskins also could have picked up Rodgers, but didn't. A bunch of teams could have, but didn't. Kiper said he had Rodgers rated higher than 17 players who were also chosen before him, eight of whom are busts today. Some of us often think of the Pack as God's team (that "G" doesn't just stand for Green Bay, my friends!). Perhaps Rodgers falling into the Packers' lap is yet further evidence of that.
• ESPN's Tom Jackson believes the X-factor in the upcoming game for the Packers will be rookie RB James Starks. Jackson related Starks' stats since becoming the Pack's featured running back (in fact, Starks is the leading rusher in the playoffs). Jackson also said that a real advantage Starks has is fresh legs. All he needs to do is pick up a couple yards per carry to get the Pack into short third down yardage and that will go a long way to helping open up the Packers' air attack...cue Aaron Rodgers.
• LB Clay Matthews will be matched against aging veteran Flozell Adams. It's expected that Matthews will beat Adams like a rented mule. Figure the Steelers to give Adams help with a running back or other blocker, and that frees up someone else to break free on Ben Roethlisberger.
• One of those guys who might be able to break free, or at the very least take up another double team and create yet another opportunity for defensive pressure is B.J. Raji. He will likely be nose-to-nose with the Steelers back-up center. Who's gonna win that match up more often than not?

If Aaron Rodgers has one of his usual outstanding dome games, and the Packers defense stops the Steelers rushing game and is able to contain -- and tackle! -- Roehtlisberger, the Lombardi Trophy will be coming back to Green Bay where it belongs. Make no mistake, this will be a dogfight. But the Packers are the better team...they just have to play like it. They've been doing just that for the last five games.

Four more quarters. Four more quarters.

Go Pack Go!!!

Topless Packers Road Trip

Now, don't get the wrong idea, Packers fans...it's not that kind of topless. We're talking here about a topless PackerMobile. Or, in other words, a convertible...but with no top whatsoever. See for yourself:

Yes, two intrepid Wisconsin Packers fans, Mark "The IceMan" Madson (Clinton, WI) and Dieter "The SnowMan" Sturm (Lake Geneva, WI), have in their own words begun "an epic adventure trip, leaving from the Tundra of Wisconsin's Green Bay Lambeau Field southbound in their 1978 El Dorado Cadillac Convertible (no top) to support the Green Bay Packers to victory in Dallas at Super Bowl XLV."

Yes, this is what Packer fans do. Just watch...


For those amongst the readership who are geographically challenged, here is what the gentlemen's route will look like:

If memory serves, it's a long drive -- approximately 1,100+ miles -- from Green Bay to Dallas (I'm sure someone will Mapquest that to find out for sure). That's quite a ride in a topless convertible. Especially in the dead of winter. But Packer fans know no bounds of enthusiasm. Or common sense. It makes us who we are!

Of course, Messrs. Madson and Sturm aren't just winging it. They do have a schedule, as tentative as it might be at the time of this posting:
Thursday - Sunday: PREP FOR THE TRIP
Monday - Travel to Green Bay to start Epic Adventure
Tuesday - LEAVE Wisconsin TO SUPER BOWL XLV Dallas
ARRIVAL to Dallas (Hopefully) Thursday PM or Friday AM

If I read this correctly the largest segment of the trip is the preparation. OK, we can understand that. If it's like the road trips from college days...well...never mind...moving right along...

If you're interested in learning more about Mike and Dieter's most excellent Packers adventure, check out their website here. And, yes, sponsorships are available. Really. Why not? There's only one Super Bowl XLV.

It's a Packivus miracle!

Yes, it's Packivus for the rest of us!

For any team to make it to the Super Bowl it is a bit of a miracle, isn't it? And when we really contemplate what this season's version of the Green Bay Packers has accomplished it truly is an amazing accomplishment.

Consider:

• Fifteen players were placed on injured reserve during the regular season, including six starters.
• The team's six losses were by a combined total of 20 points.
• The Pack had to win their last two regular season games just to qualify via tiebreaker for the playoffs as the last seed.
• The team had to go on the road for all three playoff games...and win. In doing so, they became the first #6 seed from the NFC to advance to the Super Bowl.
• At no time, in any game this season, have the Packers trailed by more than 7 points.
• The Packers' defense is either at or near the top in just about all statistical categories, despite being the unit that lost the most starters and backups to season-ending injuries.

It's an amazing story. The Packers were the preseason pick of many to go to the Super Bowl because of the talent on board. Much of that talent was left by the wayside as the season went on. Other players, many of them virtual unknowns and/or street free agents -- Sam Shields, Howard Green, Erik Walden, John Kuhn, James Starks and Tim Masthay among them -- had to step in and play at an exceptionally high level even for the team to have a shot at making the playoffs. The player personnnel side of things, beginning with GM Ted Thompson, and the coaches and staff -- especially head coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Dom Capers -- had to do a remarkable job of getting these players in a position to succeed. And succeed they did.

There is much to be proud of about this team. They have one goal remaining, four quarters of football, to bring the Lombardi Trophy back to Titletown USA. Their upcoming opponent is almost a mirror image of the Pack, especially on the defensive side of things. The Steelers have 25 players on the roster with Super Bowl experience; the Packers have two, Charles Woodson and Ryan Picket (although John Kuhn was on the Steelers practice squad when they won in 2005). But would you put it past this group of Packers to once again exceed expectations? Nope.

It will be a knock-down, drag-out battle for the title. If the Pack puts it together they way they can, they way they have been, Super Bowl XVL will go down as the fourth such title for the team, and their 13th overall NFL championship title...more than any other NFL team. They want it. You have to believe they'll earn it. After all, it's the season of Packivus miracles!

Oh, and a word to the NFL for next season: just imagine what the Packers will be like when they get all their players back! Be afraid...be very afraid.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers win the Halas, now off to Dallas!

How does it feel, Packers fans, to be able to call our beloved Green Bay Packers NFC Champions? Pretty darn good, doesn't it? And then you toss in the fact that the victory came at the expense of the team south of the border, the Chicago Bears, the Packers' partner in the oldest rivalry in the NFL, and it becomes even sweeter. To take the Halas Trophy, named after the Bears' founder, George Halas, back to Green Bay is wonderful irony.

Now the Packers have the Halas...and it's off to Dallas! Super Bowl XLV here we come. We have 13 days to get Packer'd up.

But first, let's just take a quick look at a few of the heros of yesterday's game.

Aaron Rodgers. For the early quarterbacking, but especially for his tackle of Brian Urlacher after Urlacher intercepted Rodgers as the Pack was driving to go up 21-0. If Rodgers hadn't made that tackle, it's a whole other ballgame. Even with the ball at midfield, Da Bears were unable to get any points off the turnover. Turned out to be the biggest tackle of Rodgers' career.

James Starks. For doing just enough, 22 carries for 74 yards, to keep the Bears honest regarding the running game. And for picking up his first NFL touchdown. Good timing.

B. J. Raji. What can you say about "The Freezer"? Helped on the blocking scheme to get Starks in the endzone. Was blowing up Bears center Olin Kreutz, especially early on. And for being athletic enough to drop into coverage and get a pick-6 TD...although it would be nice in the future to not hold the ball out like a loaf of bread until you are well past the goal line (just a suggestion in case you are reading this, Mr. Raji). Raji becomes, according to ESPN, the heaviest player to score a TD in postseason history. There's some trivia for you.

Greg Jennings. Eight catches for 130 yards. Big catches to help get the Pack up early. Huge.

Tim Masthay. A punter? A hero of the game? You bet. Especially when the guy on the other end of your punts is Devin Hester. For the second game in a row against Da Bears, Masthay placed his punts in such a way where Hester was a non-factor. Outstanding job.

Jarrett Bush. Yeah, I know. He's been the kind of player over the last several years that Packer fans have not exactly warmed to, shall we say, especially when he's called upon to play in the defensive backfield. But you have to give credit where credit is due. And Bush deserves plenty of credit for becoming a special teams warrior. He has often become unblockable in punt coverage. Combined with Masthay's punting, Bush is often able to be the first one to down the ball or to be in on a tackle of the returner. Bush has made such an impression on his teammates that he was elected one of the co-captains for the playoffs.

Sam Shields. The undrafted rookie free agent continues to make a name for himself for his outstanding cornerback play. Yesterday, he helped cause a fumble on a blitz of Jay Cutler, which the Bears recovered unfortunately. Oh yeah, there were those two interceptions, too. Especially that last one that was the dagger in the Bears' hopes for a comeback. Shields is only the third rookie in NFL history with two interceptions in a conference championship game. You are a rookie no more, Mr. Shields.

The entire defense, with special kudos to coordinator Dom Capers. Defense wins championships they say. That was true yesterday and it has been true for the Packers throughout the season. Often times the offense seems to go into a conservative mode late in the game, and is unable to convert third downs to keep the clock running and the ball away from the opponent. The outcome of the game then rests with the defense. Time after time, the defense comes up with big plays to save the game. Last week versus Atlanta it was Tramon Williams. Yesterday versus Da Bearz it was Sam Shields. Amazing defense. And it will be needed again if the Pack is to beat the Steelers to win Super Bowl XLV. Facing Ben Roethlisberger is no small challenge. But we know that this Packers defense will leave everything on the field in order to help assure that the Lombardi Trophy returns to Green Bay where it belongs.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers beat Bears 21-14 to go to Super Bowl

It was pretty at the start, ugly inbetween, and finally, thankfully, final. The Green Bay Packers defeated the Chicago Bears 21-14 at Soldier Field to capture the Halas Trophy. Next up: Super Bowl XLV and the Lombardi Trophy.

A game re-recap and comments will follow...later. Tonight...tomorrow...whenever. Early clue: defense wins championships and it was the defense that saved the day today.

But for now, let's just say the dream of the Packers winning the NFC Championship for the first times since 1997 and heading to the Super Bowl has come true.

Great job, Packers! From management, coaches and staff to the guys on the field.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Da Bearz Championship - A Dream

This is the day. Finally! The day our beloved Green Bay Packers send the Chicago Bears back to hibernation. The Pack then gets ready for Super Bowl XLV in Dallas. For those who haven't yet read my preview/prediction of yesterday, I am -- shocking! -- picking the Packers to beat Da Bearz, 24-17.

But perhaps like many fans, I didn't sleep really well last evening. Kept tossing and turning. Was very calm until then, apparently. But the excitement builds consciously and subconsciously, right? Like many, my blood pressure will start to go up as game time approaches. And I'll probably be hyperventilating throughout the game until I hear the radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee, declare, "There...is...your...dagger!"

Anyway, in my somewhat agitated sleep state of last evening, a dream came to me. And in it, I have to say I see a premonition of what's to come today. So take a look, and see if you agree...



The clues to a win for the Packers are many here: the bear is scared and up a tree; a more advanced mammal aims to take it down; a knockout shot is delivered; the bear bounces and lands on the ground with a thud (obviously representative of Jay Cutler getting sacked over and over); the bear being hauled away by a strongman (a Clay Matthews-like avatar); the reference to years of therapy being needed by the bear (referring to Bears' fans at any point in time, really) and lastly, the 6-pack comment by whats-his-name the announcer...what could be more Wisconsin?

So, that dream pretty clearly seals the deal, don't you think? The real dream, of course, begins after today's win. It's the dream of heading to the Super Bowl again and bringing the Lombardi Trophy back to where it belongs: Green Bay, Titletown, USA!

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Da Bearz Championship Preview and Prediction

This time tomorrow, we will know the outcome of the NFC Championship Game between our beloved Green Bay Packers and...those other guys...um...Eagles! No, beat them already. Umm...Falcons! No, beat them too. Let's see...I knew it a moment ago...oh yeah...the Chicago Bears. And, yes, the Pack will beat them, too. Shocked, I know, to see yours truly predicting that.

But what else can I do? The Packers are favored. Seemingly at least two-thirds of all the pundits out there are picking the Pack. But are these the only reasons? No. I'm picking the Packers to beat Da Bearz because they are, as ESPN's Jim Rome stated on his show yesterday, not only the hottest team but also the better team.

Granted, the best team doesn't always win. Enough instances of that exist across the league. And, make no mistake, Da Bears are a tough match up. These games always are a slugfest. They have some great players. And it's close enough where an ill-timed penalty, turnover or blown assignment -- or, dare I say, a shanked field goal attempt -- could be the difference in the final outcome. We just hope more of those mistakes occur on Chicago's side of things than on the Packers'.

The Packers are confident and are playing championship calibre football. Da Bearz are probably feeling a bit disrespected and will likely want to take out some of that frustration on the Pack. So it will likely be a tight game, if not throughout at least through the first half.

But if the Pack can get up early on Chicago, bottle up RB Matt Forte, and force Jay Cutler to win the game...that adds up to a win for the Pack.

I normally don't post my prediction until game day. I like to sleep on things and see how things look in the morning. But because many will be heading to the game or viewing parties then, I thought I'd post my prognostication a bit early...while still reserving the right to revise before the game, of course.

Jim Rome predicted the Packers to win 21-17. Peter King of Sports Illustrated picks the Pack 17-16. I think both of those scores for Da Bearz are in the ballpark, although I'm hoping the Pack's defense can hold Chicago to under 17, which they are completely capable of doing. I'm also hoping that the Pack's offense, particularly its running game, keeps opening things up for Aaron Rodgers and the receiving corps. It might not be the long downfield plays given the field and weather conditions. But dink and dunk will work just fine as well, and also not force the O-line into having to pass protect for those long dropbacks and long throws.

Given those assumptions, I'm taking the Packers 24-17 over Da Bearz.

Go Pack Go!!!

P.S. OK, there really wasn't much of a preview here, was there? But really, the whole week has been a preview, hasn't it? Good. Glad we cleared that up.

Packers vs. Da Bearz Championship Week - Part 3

Two days to go before the showdown in ChiTown...man, doesn't it seem like an eternity since last weekend's game? Good thing the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears can generate a lot of talk to fill up the time. As noted here yesterday, the talk isn't from the players; they are playing things close to the vest and not generating any bulletin board material for their opponent.

Fans and pundits, on the other hand, well...fugetaboutit.

Predictions generally call for a close game. And depending upon which colors you happen to wear, the nod for the victor goes one way or another. No surprise there. But sometimes it's interesting to notice nuances in the conversations.

For example, I happened to be in Chicago last evening and struck up a brief conversation with a desk security guard at the office building I was at for a meeting. He was wearing a Bears hat. He's seen me before coming in wearing a Packers jacket. We don't know each other's names, but we know we both love football. It's always a friendly and good-natured chat. He picks Da Bearz 24-17, not surprisingly. I said I thought that was probably a pretty reasonable score, although I'd have the Pack coming out on top, also not surprisingly.

But then he started to expound just a bit, ever-so cuatiously, measuring his words so he wouldn't have to reconsider his prediction. He said, "If we had Rodgers....Super Bowl, no doubt. If we had Rodgers...". I quickly reminded him that Da Bearz don't, the Packers do, and that will indeed be the difference. (Oversimplifying, of course, as one does in these types of conversations.) I then opened the conversation door a bit more by saying, "Yeah, Cutler...". That's all it took. He was off to the races on how you never know which Cutler is going to show up. He laughed as he recalled some pundit saying that Cutler is colorblind and that's why he'll throw the ball to anyone.

From other things I've read and heard on the airwaves this view seems to be the general feeling among a good number of Bears fans. They believe in Da Bearz, but they just aren't so sure about their quarterback.

The Packers on the other hand, have it rolling now. And Bears fans know that, too. As huge as this game is for the Packers, in some ways it seems to be even more so for Chicago and its fans. After all, Da Bearz won the NFC North. Yet, they are currently listed as 3-1/2 point underdogs on their home field. They haven't gotten a lot of respect this season. Pretenders not contenders was the tag. But here they are, and here the Packers are, playing for the right to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. In the longest rivalry in the NFL, there has never been a match up like this before. "This is the Super Bowl," I opined to my security guard compadre. "Ya got that right," he nodded in agreement.

For as much as both teams want to get to and win the Super Bowl -- it is the biggest prize, of course -- at least in this corner of the world, among the fans of both teams that live and die with each victory and loss, this Championship game is THE game. Chances are, a meeting with stakes like this will not happen between Green Bay and Chicago again for a long, long time. Each team's fans want to have the bragging rights. For the losing side, it might be another 70 years before there's a chance for redemption. Some of us (gulp) probably won't be here then.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Da Bearz Championship Week - Part 2

Alrighty then...it's a couple days since the last post and a couple days till Packageddon in ChiTown. The story angles and trash talking between fans of the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears are ramping up, filling the airwaves and cyberspace.

But it's important to note that the trash talking between players on the two teams has been nil. Nothing but respect given back and forth. No bulletin board material. As St. Vince might say, "What the hell is going on out there?!" Can this possibly be the same two franchises that have spawned some of the most vicious and nasty players and games the NFL has ever seen? Where's the clotheslining...the "hook"...the body slams? Ah, those were the days...when there was a real dislike by the players on one team versus the other. I mean, even the quarterbacks in this upcoming game are friends. Friends! What's the football world coming to??? Holy Johnny Blood McNally, Batman!

Along these lines, the radio voice of the Green Bay Packers, Wayne Larrivee, has a wonderful radio piece about this greatest rivalry in pro football on his "The Back Page" segment on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee. Larrivee outlines some bits of Packers - Bears history that many fans might not be aware of. Both teams, at one time or another, for instance, actually helped keep the other afloat. Another tidbit of history: Papa Bear George Halas was an honorary pallbearer at Curly Lambeau's funeral. For better or worse, the Packers and Da Bearz are bound together in NFL history. That's why it's still amazing that these two great franchises have met only once before in a playoff setting (70 years ago!), and never before in a Championship game. It has always been special. Sunday's game takes it to a whole new level. You can listen to Larrivee's commnetary here.

Cutler on Cutler
Speaking of Jay Cutler (how that's for a non-transition transition?), if you haven't seen this yet, check it out. It's what we imagine he might say if administered truth serum. Enjoy.



More on other aspects of this game later on. For now... Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Da Bearz Championship Week - Part 1

In what will likely be a rolling set of posts as mood, news, time and interest permit, here is the first installment of the NFC Championship week previewing the matchup between our beloved Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears.

According to Pete Dougherty of the Green Bay Press-Gazette, three bookmakers – Sportsbook.com, Bookmaker.com and betED.com – have the early line on the Packers set as three-point favorites over Da Bearz. That's a good start.

Perhaps they are wondering, along with many Bears fans, no doubt, which Jay Cutler will show up: The good Jay (not bad yesterday during the win over the Seahawks...but it was the Seahawks, after all) or the bad Jay?

On the other hand, Packers fans have no such worries. We know we have not only a good quarterback, but a great quarterback: Aaron Rodgers. But don't take my word for it. When you have Hall of Fame QB Troy Aikman commenting during the broadcast of the Pack's de-icing of Matty "Ice" Ryan Saturday night that if he was starting a football team right now he'd pick Rodgers as his QB, that speaks volumes. And then Da Coach himself -- Mike Ditka -- states on ESPN that in his roughly 50 years of football he's never seen a better individual playoff performance by anyone than what he witnessed from Rodgers versus the Falcons. So...there's a couple pretty reliable testimonials for you. Haven't heard anyone saying anything similar about Cutler. Of course, a beat down on him by the Pack this coming Sunday will make sure that trend continues.

This is the thing dreams are made of. The oldest rivalry in the NFL. Storied franchises. Border wars. Friends and families with split loyalties. It doesn't get better than this. In many ways, this game will make the Super Bowl almost anticlimactic. Almost.

Go Pack Go!

It's the Packers vs. Bears for trip to Super Bowl XLV

The Green Bay Packers blew out the Atlanta Falcons last night for a trip to the NFC Championship Game. Today, the Chicago Bears beat the Seattle Seahawks, 35-24, although the game was never in doubt despite Da Bearz giving up several scores late.

Believe it or not, this will set up the first playoff meeting between the Pack and Da Bearz since a divisional playoff game in 1941. 1941! Holy John Belushi movie, Batman! (Film reference, look it up.)

With the annual meetings between these two teams going back to the dawn of time (or the start of the NFL, whichever came first), it does come as a bit of a surprise that there has only been one previous time when the Packers and Da Bearz met with something like this on the line.

This is definitely the game that both Packers and Bears fans have been hoping for. For Packer fans, it's a chance to make amends for the early season giveaway loss in ChiTown, grab the NFC Championship Trophy -- the George Halas Trophy (how great to steal that away on Da Bearz' home turf?) -- and get ready for a return to the Super Bowl. For Bears fans...well, who really cares?

Make no mistake, Da Bearz have gotten much better on all sides of the ball as the season has worn on. But so have the Packers. And if they continue to roll like they did last night, the Super Bowl is just one game away for the Pack. It's no gimme. That second meeting in Green Bay in the regular season finale was a dogfight. This will be, too, one would suspect. But that was more or less the thinking going into the Atlanta game. Chicago is better than Atlanta, especially on the defensive side of things. And Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz has put Jay Cutler in a position to succeed by changing the scheme since early in the season.

But really...when push comes to shove, with the game on the line, which quarterback do you want pulling the trigger? Cutler or Aaron Rodgers. A-duh! If the Pack's defense and special teams hold their own -- which they will -- the advantage goes to the Packers, despite playing in Chicago and on that lousy turf at Soldier Field. (C'mon...with all that graft that flies around Chicago, couldn't they pay off someone to get a decent field??? Really.) As Terry Bradshaw noted, a bad field goes to the advantage of the offense because they know where they're going and the defenders do not. More weapons, more opportunity. That's the Packers.

As the week goes on, we'll be doing preview updates as the need arises. Our prediction of the score (not the winner -- you already know we're picking the Packers!) will be made closer to game time.

The NFC Championship Game will be carried on Fox with kickoff set for 2 p.m. Central time.

Go Pack Go!!!

Can you say "NFC Championship Game"???

Yes, Packer fans, it's time to rejoice once more. Our beloved Green Bay Packers are on a roll. As the 6th-seeded team in the NFC playoffs, they trounced the #1-seeded Atlanta Falcons 48-21. Other than a shaky start early with a Greg Jennings' fumble and special teams giving up a 102-yd kickoff return, the Packers dominated every aspect of the game.

QB Aaron Rodgers threw for 3 touchdowns (giving him 10 TD passes in his first 3 playoff games as a starter) and ran for 1. Rodgers finished 31 of 36 for 366 yards, 3 TD and no INTS, and a 136.8 QB rating. CB Tramon Williams had 2 huge interceptions, 1 in the endzone and another for a pick-6 70-yard TD return to end the 1st half. Could it be Rodgers and Williams had a chip on their shoulders about not making the Pro Bowl? Nah...this is all about getting to the Big Dance, baby!

In all, Atlanta had 4 turnovers, including 2 fumbles in the 4th quarter. The Packers never punted in the game.

The 48 points scored sets a new Packers' post-season record.

At the end of the game, the stadium was filled only with Packers fans as the Dirty Bird patrons had flown the coop.

More analysis and comment in the days ahead as the Packers prepare to meet either Da Bearz or Seahawks. That will be determined tomorrow.

But whichever team we meet in the Championship, they should be afraid. Very afraid. The Packers are rolling on all cylinders.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers ready to clip Falcons' wings

Tonight is the night. The night the lights go out in Georgia. The night the Green Bay Packers get one step closer to Super Bowl XLV. Tonight is the night the 6th-seeded Packers take down the #1-seeded Atlanta Falcons.

Yes, the Falcons are favored by 1 point. Big whoop. And all the analysis has been offered: who has the better running game, special teams, QB, defense, receivers, etc. And the record of first-round bye teams winning their divisional games versus Wild Card winners is rather impressive. Plus, we all know how great Atlanta and QB Matt Ryan are at home. Throw in Michael "The Burner" Turner as the featured running back and the Dirty Birds are a handful.

But so are the Packers. Especially now. The Packers handed a victory to the Falcons in their earlier meeting, blowing goal-line opportunities and failing to tackle Turner. A few inopportune penalties sealed the deal with a narrow closing-seconds loss. It was the modus operandi for all the Packers losses. That was then. This is now.

Now, over the past month, the Packers have been playing at a different level. They are as healthy as they've been all season. Which doesn't mean they don't miss all the starters who went out early and often and onto injured reserve. But the players that have been plugged in have stepped up. Big time. The Packers defense is #5 in the NFL overall. Aaron Rodgers is arguably the best quarterback in the league right now after Tom Brady according to various sports pundits. Special teams has been consistent, something they weren't early in the season. And now, perhaps, the Pack has found a running back in rookie James Starks. If he does even half as well versus the Falcons as he did against the Eagles it will go a long way to helping the Packers leave Atlanta with a victory.

Look for defensive coordinator Dom Capers to devise a scheme which will keep Michael Turner from chewing up yards and clock -- something they were unable to do last time. In Atlanta's three losses, Turner was held in check; the Pack needs to do that as well in order to win. Accomplishing that, occasional pressures on Matt Ryan will also help do the trick. On the offensive side of things, rush with Starks and let Rodgers and the receiving corps exploit the Falcons' secondary. As for special teams, just don't blow it...what more can you say?

This will be a close game, as the two teams are very well matched. The Falcons are rested. But the Packers are hot. Look for the Pack to stay on a roll.

We're calling this game 24-20 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers playoff win sees some "firsts"

Sunday, January 9, 2011...a day that will live in, well, Green Bay Packers' lore if nowhere else. And not only for the fact that the Pack beat the Philadelphia Eagles 21-16. This game should be part of the sacred Packers' canon for years to come because of a few of the "firsts" recorded.

The first of the "firsts" was that, with his three touchdown passes yesterday, QB Aaron Rodgers became the first NFL quarterback -- ever -- to record seven touchdown passes in his first two playoff appearances. Obviously, those other four TD passes were made in last year's overtime loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Congrats to Mr. Rodgers, our Pro Bowl QB. (Wait...what's that you're saying? Rodgers didn't make the Pro Bowl this season? But Michael Vick did? Who's responsible for this mix up??? Obviously, there's a bizarro world thing happening here!)

Oh, and this was also Rodgers' first playoff win as the Packers starting QB.

Another great "first" was a Packers' rookie playoff rushing record for James Starks. His 123 yards (23 carries, 5.3 yds/carry) rushing yesterday blew past the prior record held by Travis "The Roadrunner" Williams back in 1967. Williams carried 18 times for 88 yards at Milwaukee's County Stadium as the Packers beat the Los Angeles Rams, 28-7. Congrats to Mr. Starks. Perhaps the Packers can now give opposing defenses a legitimate rushing threat to worry about throughout the playoffs.

Another "first" was the first NFL touchdown catch by TE Tom Crabtree, which was also the first Packers' score of the game. Congrats to Mr. Crabtree. And we really liked the way you rubbed it in to the fans with your "I can't hear you" hands-to-the-ears routine as the City of Brotherly Love fans showered their special brand of love upon you. Classic.

On the flip side of things, and it played an important part in the Packers victory, it was the first time the Eagles Pro Bowl kicker, David Akers, missed two field goal attempts in a playoff game. Being so bold as to speak for Packers fans everywhere, this was indeed a good "first" and a great time to have it happen. Sorry, Mr. Akers.

Last, but certainly not least, is the fact that this was the first playoff win by any Packers team in Philadelphia. The Pack had been 0-2 in playoff games in Philly going into yesterday's game. The only playoff loss by head coach Vince Lombardi was to the Eagles in Philly in 1960. Then there was head coach Mike Sherman's Waterloo overtime loss in 2004, where a loss was snatched from the hands of victory. That demon has been exorcised.

This was a complete team victory for the Packers, the team's first road playoff win since the 1997 NFC Championship Game in San Francisco (hey, another "first" of sorts!). Beating any team twice in the same season in their own stadium is no easy feat. Beating a team with Michael Vick running the offense is a challenge anytime, anywhere. Well done, gentlemen, well done!

Next up: the Dirty Birds
The Packers will now have six days to get ready to travel to Atlanta to take on Matt Flynn and the Falcons in a place where the home team rarely loses. But if memory serves, the Packers essentially played the Dirty Birds to a draw last time around, and lost by 3 points in the waning moments of the game. The early Vegas line has the Falcons favored by 1 to 2 points. Can you say, "toss up"?

The Falcons are the #1 seed in the NFC, the Packers are the #6 seed. That means jack right now, if you get my drift. And I think you do. The Packers are playing at a level they haven't been at until probably the last three or four games. The defense is better than it was when they last played the Falcons, and the offense is also more in a groove and now has a rushing threat for Atlanta to deal with as well as Mr. Rodgers and crew.

The Packers are confident and ready. Watch out Atlanta. The Packers are heading your way.

For Packers, it's V-E Day!

For anyone historically challenged (OK, let's be honest, that would be most Americans, but I digress...), the V-E I'm speaking of isn't that other V-E day; Victory in Europe will not get the Green Bay Packers anywhere today (and, please, don't even think about starting a conversation about the NFL playing in Europe!). However, a Victory over the Philadelphia Eagles will certainly be a great V-E Day for Packer fans everywhere!

And that's what we're looking for today: the Packers to beat the Eagles. V-E Day.

This will be a quick and concise preview. (Who said "Yay!"? I heard that!).

The Eagles are favored by 2-1/2 points, not even given the full usual benefit of the home field advantage. The weather is supposed to be cloudy and in the low 30's...not bad. However, the current conditions and forecast call for the wind to be a possible concern, with gusts forecast up to 35 mph. So, if it comes down to a kicking game, there could be issues, as they say. Punts could be affected, kickoffs could be affected and, especially, field goal attempts could be affected. We don't want to see a directional kick from Mason Crosby or punt from Tim Masthay taken by the wind and give returner DeSean Jackson opportunities he was not intended to get. Nor do we want to see a Crosby field goal attempt ding off an upright or get pushed wide and be the deciding factor in the game. Horrors! Bottom line: the Packers' special teams did a great job last weekend against Devin Hester and Da Bearz; they need an equally big game today against Jackson and the Eagles, and they can't let the wind determine the outcome of the game.

The Packers' defense must figure out a way to contain the Eagles running game and bottle up QB Michael Vick. That means keeping him in the pocket and hitting him as much as possible. The ViQueens laid out a great blueprint in terms of how to do that. Given that Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers has been a master at scheming all season long, we should expect nothing less than a great performance today from the Pack's defense. In addition, the defensive line will benefit from the return of DE Cullen Jenkins. It's not certain how much he'll be able to play, but the fact that he will be able to make an impact when needed certainly is a boost to a unit that has been playing at an exceptional level for the last half of the season especially.

On the offensive side of the ball, QB Aaron Rodgers and the air attack should be able to shred a questionable Eagles' secondary. Again, that's assuming that the wind doesn't adversely affect the downfield passing attack of the Packers. Being able to hit those big plays is a major part of the Pack's offense; take that away and...? Still, if the Packers can muster any semblance of a running game -- just to keep the Eagles honest -- that will enable Rodgers to find his receivers wherever they may be. And, of course, being able to convert touchdowns rather than field goals will be critical when the offense gets inside the redzone. If the Pack can get off to a fast start today -- instead of falling into the sluggish form that has appeared way too often -- that will go a long way towards securing a victory.

The Packers are feeling very good about where they are momentum-wise right now. They believe their playoff season started two weeks ago, as they needed to win to get in. Make no mistake, the Eagles have the weapons to win; that and the home field are making them the favorites going into the game. But most pundits seem to be predicting the Packers to win this game.

Include yours truly in that group.

I'm calling it 30-24 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

P.S. That quick and concise preview thing I mentioned earlier on...never mind...

Packers lock up Bishop

No, the Green Bay Packers have not instigated an ecclesiastical junta in the Diocese of Green Bay. Rather, they have according to reports nailed down a four-year $19 million contract extension with LB Desmond Bishop.

Yay!

Bishop has been a top performer on special teams and in preseason games for the last several seasons. Finally, with the rash of injuries which decimated the Packers' linebacking corps, he got his chance to show what he can do as a starter. And he's done well. Now, he's going to get paid well, too, although some suspect that he might have been able to bank more funds if he'd gone to free agency in the off-season. Apparently, he wants to stay in Green Bay. And why wouldn't he? The Packers' defense -- despite the numerous injuries that hit that unit throughout the course of the regular season -- has become a dominating feature of the Pack. It is well coached. And the players that have been plugged in have each excelled in ways unexpected, in large part due to the coaching of defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his assistants. Kudos have to particularly go to linebackers coach Kevin Greene for the tremendous job he's done with the revolving cast of characters at the linebacker spots.

One wonders whether this move to sign Bishop long-term is a security blanket in case the Packers decide to part ways with Nick Barnett, who will be coming off yet another season-ending injury, or whether it will be a negotiating tool in an attempt to get A. J. Hawk to renegotiate his contract, which calls for him to jump from $4.623 million this season to a base salary of $10 million next season. Hawk has arguably had his best season as a pro. He's been as solid a performer as they come, and is the primary signal caller at linebacker. Since reportedly adjusting his workout routine, Hawk even seems to be quicker than before and able to even handle short pass coverage better than in prior years. No doubt he's the kind of quality person and player that the Packers would like to keep on hand for the long haul. But at what price? That remains to be seen. The Packers will have a crowded field at linebacker going into next season, with all the players coming back from injury (e.g., Barnett, Poppinga, Chillar, Jones...remember them???) and the players that were given opportunities no one expected at the start of the season, such as Frank Zombo and Erik Walden as well as Bishop.

There will be some interesting decisions coming down the pike for players and team alike.

But for now, congrats to Mr. Bishop. He's played like he's had something to prove, and prove it he has. He's earned his keep.

A great performance on Sunday vs. Michael Vick and the Eagles would be a wonderful way for Bishop to confirm the faith the Packers have placed in him.

Packers sneak by Bears to make playoffs

It wasn't pretty. In fact, it was pretty ugly if you were a Green Bay Packers fan. With everything on the line for the Pack and virtually nothing on the line for the Chicago Bears, the outcome of this game was somewhat in doubt until the last minute of the game. But finally, the Packers prevailed 10-3.

The Packers' offense was stymied by Da Bearz defense all afternoon, as well as its own miscues: dropped passes, penalties (four on RT Brian Bulaga alone), and the usual lack of a rushing game. But, the Packers' defense only allowed Da Bears starters -- who played the entire game -- three points...and came up with the clinching interception (thank you, Nick Collins!) when Chicago was driving in the game's closing seconds. The Pack's special teams probably had their best game of the season. On the few kickoffs and the more frequent punts, Packers' coverage units did a tremendous job of keeping Devin Hester in check all day long.

The Pack didn't cover the 9-1/2 point spread for the game. But they came away with the "W" and that's all they needed to claim a spot in the playoffs. The Packers will meet the Eagles in Philadelphia next Sunday at 3:30 p.m. The Pack's defense will have to have another top-notch game, this time against Michael Vick. And the Packers' offense will have to have a much better game than was on display today in order for the team to continue beyond a one-and-done scenario.

But for now, let's just enjoy this win. The Packers are in the playoffs. And while the road to the Super Bowl will be entirely on the road for the Packers, anything can happen.

Let us pray...

Playoff schedule set by NFL
You can see the entire playoff schedule as just released by the NFL here.

Packers vs. Da Bearz Preview

Today is the day on which the Green Bay Packers will grab a Wild Card spot in the playoffs. Or not. Standing in their way, with already a bye week secured, is the NFC North champs (really, can you believe it???) Chicago Bears. Oddsmakers are figuring, despite the statements of coach Lovie Dovie Smith to the contrary, that Da Bearz will be resting many of their starters for a good portion of the game; this translates into the Packers being slotted as 9-1/2 point favorites. Yowza!

The Packers need this game, Da Bearz don't. Yes, there is an outside chance that Chicago could grab the #1 seed and home field advantage throughout the playoffs. But do they want to risk injury to key players on the outside chance that Atlanta loses to the worst team in the league, the Carolina Panthers? Or because they'd really like to keep the Packers out of the playoffs? Even Lovie isn't that dim. Expect key Bears' starters to play at least the first half and perhaps into the third quarter, depending upon the closeness of the game.

And that's the key question: will the game be close?

Both the Packers and Da Bearz are very different teams than when they met in Week 3 of the season. The Packers have lost yet more players to season-ending injuries and Chicago basically still has its full complement of starters. The Packers have overachieved with players that GM Ted Thompson has seemingly pulled in off the street and that the coaching staff has "coached up," as the expression goes. To some, including yours truly, Da Bearz can also be said to be overachievers. Not many pundits had them winning the NFC North at the beginning of the season, did they?

Da Bearz' defense has been its typical tough self and just as typically keeps the team in each game with a few rare exceptions. They're tough against the run and thrive on turnovers. The strip of the ball from WR James Jones along the sidelines in the waning moments of the first match helped set up the winning field goal. Da Bearz' special teams are keyed with the uber-returner, Devin Hester...who causes special teams coaches league-wide many hours of lost sleep. He alone can change -- and win -- games for Chicago; his punt return for a TD was critical in their earlier 20-17 last-second win over the Packers. To be fair, Jay Cutler and the offense are operating at a higher level than they were when the Packers handed Da Bearz that earlier victory in Chi-Town. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz has seemingly shifted from having Cutler doing seven-step drop backs and being a sack target to a three-step drop and a quick rhythm passing game. Also, let's not forget RB Matt Forte who will likely break the 1,000-yard rushing mark today; he stands at 978 yards and a 4.4 yards-per-carry average coming into this game.

As for the Pack's offense, there won't be much rushing room against Da Bearz' stout defensive line, at least while the starters are playing. But what else is new? The Packers haven't had a running game all season. The game will fall to at least keeping Chicago's defense honest with occasional runs, while letting QB Aaron Rodgers and the receivers do their thing, which they do very well. The offensive line will just need to give Rodgers the time he needs. Oh, and avoid the mind-numbing penalties which doomed the Packers in the first meeting. Given the play of late, both the protection and lack of penalties should be expected.

The Packers' defense will once again be without the services of DE Cullen Jenkins and LB Frank Zombo; S Atari Bigby is also out (along with FB Korey Hall on offense). Still, the D should be more than up to the challenge today given what's on the line. As for the Pack's special teams, the main objective there will be to not let Devin Hester beat you. Big challenge, and any line drive punt from P Tim Mathay could make this game closer than it should otherwise be given circumstances.

The predictions for this game are all over the place, some predicting a classic close-game battle while others are calling the Packers in a cakewalk. Weather will not be a factor, other than -- surprise! -- it's cold: at gametime the forecast is for 16 degrees and partly cloudy.

So, how do we call it? Not surprisingly, given what's at stake and how Da Bearz are expected to play this game, we're calling it 31-17 Packers.

Go Pack Go!!!

Happy New Year, Packer fans!

Bye-bye Brett
Oh...and a fond farewell -- again -- to Ol' #4 who belatedly and finally will really and truly and forever be at his final NFL game today. Note that I didn't say "playing"; that's because it's just been announced that Favre is inactive for today's ViQueens' finale vs. the Lions.

It's been a horrible year on many fronts for Brett Favre. Like many great quarterbacks who have hung on too long, he's going out with a whimper instead of the return to glory he sought. Sadly, though, there's probably no once-great QB who has had the shine come off his star to the extent that Brett has. He's gone from legend and adulation a few years ago to the butt of jokes and investigations today. So sad.

Packers playoff scenarios

Following the upset victory of the ViQueens over the Eagles in Philly last evening, the playoff scenarios start to come into focus for the Green Bay Packers. Sort of.

First, of course, the Packers actually have to make the playoffs. And that, as any true Green-n-Gold-blooded fan of the Pack knows, requires the Pack to beat Da Bearz Sunday afternoon in the friendly confines of Lambeau Field.

It's possible that Chicago has a chance at playing for the #1 NFC seed (can you believe it?), but they'll know whether that's in play by gametime. It's already a given that they have secured the #2 spot and a bye. So the question for coach Lovie Dovie Smith is whether and how long he will play his starters against the Pack. Yes, Smith relishes his team's battles against the Pack. But would he jeopardize a run in the playoffs by exposing his starters to possible injury in what for all practical purposes is a meaningless game for them? Doubtful.

So the odds of the Packers beating Da Bearz have seemingly increased courtesy of the 'Queens beating Philly.

The outcome of last night's game also means that instead of back-to-back games against Chicago, as was originally speculated as the primary playoff scenario, the Packers will now instead be looking to take a trip east to play the Eagles. Many fans, judging from comments on blogs, radio call-in shows, etc., preferred to take on Da Bearz instead of the Eagles. However, given that Philly will now be playing 3 games in about 11 or 12 days time, and that QB Michael Vick got banged up a bit in last night's game, some fans are beginning to look forward to playing Philadelphia.

If the Packers make the playoffs, and then beat Philly, they would likely take on Atlanta. There are scenarios which, if correct, show that it's possible that the Packers could match up against Da Bearz in the NFC Championship game. Wouldn't that be something?!

The one thing you will notice about these scenarios, though, is that the Packers are on the road throughout the playoffs. The Giants, as is all too clear in memory, won out on the road and went on to win the Super Bowl just a few years ago. But no #6 seeded team coming out of the NFC has ever gone on to win the Super Bowl; the only instance of any #6 seed winning the big game is that of the Steelers.

But, again, nothing happens unless the Packers win Sunday. That's the only game that matters now.

See Tom Silverstein's blog about the matchups in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Go Pack Go!!!

On this day...
The late great Ray Nitschke was born on this day in 1936.

Five Packers named to Pro Bowl

The Pro Bowl selections have been announced by the NFL, and five Green Bay Packers were named to the team: left tackle Chad Clifton, safety Nick Collins, wide receiver Greg Jennings, linebacker Clay Matthews and cornerback Charles Woodson. Collins, Matthews and Woodson were named starters for the NFC squad.

What about QB Aaron Rodgers? Or CB Tramon Williams? Well you may ask. They were named as first alternates.

Yes, it is a bizarro world indeed where Rodgers and Williams are "alternates." That should go on one of the ESPN segments of "C'mon, Man!".

Other alternates include wide receiver Donald Driver, linebacker A.J. Hawk, nose tackle B.J. Raji and guard Josh Sitton.

You can read more about the selections here.

If there's football in 2011, here's the Pack's schedule

Assuming that football is played in 2011, the Green Bay Packers will have the following home and away schedule (as determined by the NFL):

HOME: Chicago, Detroit, Minnesota, New Orleans, Tampa Bay, Denver, Oakland, NFC West second-place team (still to be determined).

AWAY: Chicago, Detroit, Minnesota, Atlanta, Carolina, Kansas City, San Diego, New York Giants.

As the article in the Green Bay Press Gazette notes, "By the rotation, the Packers were actually supposed to play at San Diego and have Kansas City at home, but the NFL separated Oakland and San Diego, so that teams playing the AFC West don’t have two long flights to California in the same season."

Go Pack Go!!! In 2010...and beyond!

Early Packers - Bears Week Insights

OK, the word "insights" in the headline might be a bit over-the-top. I mean, insights? Insights??? You know better than that.

However, here is what we do know: the Green Bay Packers will be playing the Chicago Bears this weekend for the final seed as a Wild Card team in the playoffs. Courtesy of the New Orleans Saints' victory over the Falcons in Atlanta last evening, that's the best that can be achieved. (Thanks, Atlanta! Where was that loss when we needed it, eh?) We also know that Da Bearz might have something to play for depending upon the outcome of tonight's game between the Eagles and ViQueens; they could be playing for a first-round bye. Not to mention, of course, the pleasure of keeping the Pack out of the playoffs. With a Bears' loss, however, it's a distinct possibility that the two teams could meet up again the following week in Chicago in the Wild Card game. Yowza!

As might be imagined, the Packer blogosphere and radio talk shows have been filled with much jubilation following the Packers' victory over the Giants on Sunday. And there are the usual and expected projections regarding the upcoming game versus Da Bearz. The opinion here is that, if the Packers team that shows up this weekend is the same one that showed up on Sunday, yes, they should come away with a win. While we also think that Da Bearz were winning with a lot of luck earlier in the season -- and admittedly, luck is part of the game -- they have become more solid as the season progressed. Their defense was and is solid, and their special teams very special courtesy of Devin Hester. The offense has also become more consistent with fewer 7-step drops by QB Jay Cutler. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz has Cutler operating more quickly, which has exposed him to fewer sack possibilities. The Bears' running game has also been solid with Matt Forte.

Yeah, Da Bearz put up a lot of points on the Jets on Sunday. But they gave up a lot, too. So does this set up as a shoot out for the Packers, or a defensive struggle? If the Packers are able to be as physical with Da Bearz as they were against the Giants they will get a victory. If the Packers are able to bottle up the running game and make Cutler get happy feet in the pocket, the defense could once again generate a number of turnovers. Aaron Rodgers and company should have a good day if they can again muster even a semblance of a rushing attack. The area that is always a concern with the Packers, however, and especially against a team like Da Bearz, is the special teams. That's the area that has to not make a mistake, or it could be the difference between a win and a loss...and a trip to the playoffs.

More as the week goes on...

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers demolish Giants 45-17

In perhaps their best outing of the season, and in a game they absolutely had to win in order to keep their playoff chances alive, the Green Bay Packers sliced, diced, and otherwise beat down the NY Giants in a 45-17 victory at Lambeau Field.

The Packers racked up more than 500 yards in total offense, with QB Aaron Rodgers throwing for a career high 404 yards on 25 of 37 passing, and 4 touchdowns. FB John Kuhn rushed for 2 TDs and picked up 1 receiving TD, as well. Some great catches by Packers receivers, but also some drops which in close games make the difference between winning and losing. Not so today, however.

The Packers defense bottled up the vaunted Giants running attack and created 6 turnovers against the Giants, including 4 interceptions off NY QB Eli Manning.

A great victory for the Pack.

Next up in the season finale is Da Bearz at Lambeau Field. More on that as the week goes on. For now, it's enough to know that if the Pack wins that game they secure a Wild Card spot in the playoffs. Lose and...well...they could still make it, with some help. But let's just figure that if the Pack can bring this same level of play next week, they will indeed be playoff bound.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers vs. Giants Preview

It's the day after Christmas and all we want is for the Green Bay Packers to still be in a gift-giving mode. No, not the kind of gifts they've given other teams in the six narrow losses of this season, but rather things like...oh...giving NY Giants head coach Tom Coughlin another couple hours in a darkened room after yet another heartbreaking loss. Or giving Packer fans everywhere yet another week of hope that this injury-riddled and over-achieving season will continue into the playoffs.

Those would be just a few gift ideas. Both, of course, are contingent upon the Packers beating the Giants at Lambeau Field today. The Packers are favored by 3 points, the home field advantage spread, meaning the game is basically a toss up. There are many out in the pundit-sphere, though, that are calling this game in favor of the Giants. To be honest, they do have a better rushing game (but, really, who doesn't?), a better defensive front, and a better return game (ditto my earlier who doesn't comment). And, after the Giants' epic 4th quarter collapse against the Eagles last weekend, you have to figure they will come out ready to play (a cliche, but still true). Of course, they could also still be feeling the after-effects of that loss. If the Pack were to get up early, the Giants just might have the air sucked right out of them. Don't expect that to happen, though.

This is a game which both teams need in order to keep their playoff hopes alive. But the Packers need it more: lose today and they are out. Period. Win and, even should they lose to Da Bearz in the regular season finale, they still have a chance but would need a few other things to fall into place in order for them to squeak in. The Packers understand very well that going into this game they control their own destiny, as the saying goes. Win their remaining two games and they clinch a Wild Card spot. Lose today and start making plans for the offseason.

If the Packers defense can't contain the Giants two-headed running attack of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs, it's going to be a long day, as that will allow QB Eli Manning to do what he can do very well when given the time. The Packers' task will be made even more difficult today with the absence, for yet one more week, of DE Cullen Jenkins and a question at outside linebacker. LB Frank Zombo is listed as doubtful after sustaining a knee injury in the game against the Pats, and even the two players signed in recent weeks to provide depth there have injuries to deal with. Not good. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers will need to bring his most creative schemes to bear today if the Pack is to have a chance at winning this game.

Likewise, head coach Mike McCarthy will have to have his play-calling abilities on target...something which, in these close games, has not always seemed to be the case. Aaron Rodgers needs a big game and, coming off his second concussion of the season, the scenario makes him vulnerable to the Giants' pass rush, particularly if the Packers are not able to find a way to run the ball. The O-line needs to play its best game of the season if the Pack is to win this game. They will have their hands full against a great Giants defensive front. If they allow that D-line to control the line of scrimmage and -- worse -- get pressure on QB Aaron Rodgers, it will be a long day and a likely loss. Not sure what the running game will look like for the Packers, but if they can at least come close to duplicating last week's performance against the Patriots it will provide Rodgers with some breathing room. And, if not...let's not even think about that, shall we?

This will be a close game. It could be decided with a turnover -- which the Pack didn't create last week despite several clear opportunities. It could also be decided on special teams. That edge, as we all too well know, does not go to the Pack. The Giants are the healthier of the two teams and the more physical. A lot will depend upon the emotion of the game. This would be a great time for the Giants to come in nursing that Eagles hangover. Don't count on that, however.

Still, because the game is at Lambeau and the Packers know their playoff lives depend on this game, we're calling it 27-24 in favor of the Packers.

Let us pray...

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers' hope: Wild Card spot

Yet another example of why Green Bay Packers fans loathe the Minnesota Vikings: on one of the rare occasions when Packer fans actually root for the 'Queens, they blow it. They lose. To Da Bearz. And, in the process, allow those same Bearz to clinch the NFC North. With Jay Cutler at QB, nonetheless.

Yes, it is yet another sign of the impending Apocalypse.

So, where does that leave the Packers? Pretty much where we thought they'd be after their second consecutive loss: in control of their own destiny. If they win their last two remaining games against the Giants and Da Bearz, both at Lambeau Field, they cinch a Wild Card spot for the playoffs. In a sense, they are already in playoff mode now. Win Sunday and they are still alive; lose to the Giants and, as the late, great Dandy Don Meredith might sing, "The party's over."

There is still no word as to whether QB Aaron Rodgers will be available. But at least we can rest comfortably that backup Matt Flynn can hold his own if he has to get the start again. The worries are the Unholy Trinity for the Pack: short-yardage conversions (especially at the goal line), penalties, and very un-special special teams. When a team loses its six games by a combined total of 20 points, it's those little things -- and some not-so-little -- that make the difference.

Perhaps the Packers, with their league-leading injury list all season long, have been running on fumes longer than we think? We'll begin to get the answer to that question with the game against the Giants. Win and get ready for a smackdown with Da Bearz, lose and start looking to draft picks and signings for next season. It's as simple as that. And cleaning up those areas of play that have been the thorn in the Packers' side all season long.

Oh, and Da Bearz still suck. And so do the ViQueens.

Packers lose another close one

Six losses by a combined total of 20 points. That sums up the Green Bay Packers' season so far. Close, but no cigar, as the saying goes. Many of the problems responsible for early close losses have been present in the last two: missed opportunities both offensively and defensively, and special teams' breakdowns that suck any momentum the Pack may have achieved right out of the game.

All this was on display again last night in the Pack's loss to the New England Patriots. Despite outplaying the Pats for virtually the entire game, the Packers' defenders at least twice dropped possible interceptions, receivers dropped passes, and special teams were -- again! -- very un-special when it counted. Please, someone, anyone, tell me in what bizarro world a 300+ pound offensive lineman almost returns a squib kick for a touchdown. Anyone? Seventy-one freakin' yards! Anyone???

Still, while the disappointment in a second straight loss is real, it must be said that most folks (including yours truly) did not give the Packers much of a chance going into the game. Aaron Rodgers was on the sidelines and backup Matt Flynn was getting his first NFL start. To his credit, Flynn did an outstanding job, throwing for 3 touchdowns and notching a passer rating of over 100. The Packer running game was also doing things we hadn't seen in a long time. Brandon Jackson gained 99 yards and FB John Kuhn picked up some huge first downs.

But the offensive line, while creating some holes, also couldn't get it done at the goal line -- again -- causing the Packers to have to settle for 3 points instead of 7. How many times has that happened over the course of this season? Too many. And they also gave up sacks at inopportune times. Such as in the last minute of play with the Packers driving for a winning TD with no timeouts remaining.

Clock management was not handled well in that last minute or so. Coach McCarthy, despite a generally good game plan, failed to put his young QB in a position to win going down the stretch.

This season is a woulda-shoulda-coulda year. It's amazing what GM Ted Thompson and the coaching staff have done with a roster depleted by injury from the first game onward. Perhaps they have overachieved given the talent actually on the field. But when you are continually this close and fail to get it done, that has to fall back on the coaches. Special teams coach Shawn Slocum should definitely be out the door once the season concludes. He should have been gone by now. Breakdowns have continued all year. Yes, the players available have also changed which affects continuity. But that's happened on offense and defense, as well, and somehow those coaches get their players ready. Slocum doesn't. That's clear.

At 8-6, the Packers are still alive for a Wild Card playoff berth, however, thanks to the great Eagles' comeback versus the Giants yesterday and the Lions upsetting the Buccaneers. If Da Bearz beat the ViQueens in Minnesota tonight they win the NFC North. But if the Pack can beat the Giants and Da Bearz at Lambeau in the next two weeks they will secure a Wild Card spot.

So, there is still hope, Packers fans. At least we have that.

Packers vs. Patriots Preview

For those readers short on time, the quick take on tonight's game between the Green Bay Packers and the New England Patriots is this: Pats are favored by 14 points. Bottom line: not many outside of the Packers' locker room are giving the 8-5 Pack much of a chance against the 11-2 Pats. Given the level of play of QB Tom Brady and his teammates over the last few weeks, and compared to the Packers' debacle in Detroit last Sunday, seems reasonable to pick the Pats over the Pack. Especially with starting QB Aaron Rodgers on the sidelines and backup Matt Flynn getting his first NFL start.

As stated in our post of yesterday noting that Rodgers was out and Flynn was in, the possibility of the Packers beating the Patriots does exist. It's just not probable. Yes, the Packers have one of the top-ranked defenses in the league, even with the bevy of injuries that have occurred to that unit since the start of the season. It's been a remarkable run, all things considered. And, while the Pats have Tom Brady and a potent offense, their defense is so-so.

So...if the Packers could somehow generate an offense that kept Tom Brady on the bench as long as possible, maybe there's a chance. But if the Packers offense fails to do that, and if they play as pathetically as they did in Detroit, this game could be a blow out.

Still, former Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Packers reporter and current Boston Globe Patriots reporter, Greg Bedard, has written a 5-point plan as to how the Packers can beat the Patriots, just as the Cleveland Browns did in their 34-14 victory over the Patriots on Nov. 7, the last time the Pats were defeated, by the way, and with Colt McCoy at quarterback for the Browns.

To summarize Bedard's 5 main points: run the ball; get an early lead; push the Patriots' pocket from the inside; press the Patriots' receivers; don't turn the ball over.

Do these things, Bedard says, and there's a chance at an upset.

As for us, even with the Green 'n' Gold-colored glasses, we see this game going in favor of the Pats, 38-13. Hope we're as wrong on this prediction as with that for last week's game.

Go Pack Go!!!

It's in like Flynn for Packers

Late this morning it was made official: Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is out for Sunday night's game against the Patriots and third-year backup Matt Flynn will get his first NFL start. Practice squad QB Graham Harrell will reportedly be activated to the 53-man squad and defensive back Anthony Smith put on injured reserve to make room for Harrell.

Rodgers apparently did not receive the medical clearance required to be allowed to play. Given this was Rodgers' second concussion in about two months, the protocol is reportedly a bit different than with a first concussion. And even though head coach Mike McCarthy said that Rodgers was outfitted with a new helmet to provide him with greater protection that only matters if Rodgers can play. And he won't, at least for another week.

If there were any game where Rodgers' presence would be needed to even be in the game, this is it. Given what the Patriots have done to their competition over the last several weeks, a healthy Aaron Rodgers would give the Pack a fighting chance of staying in the game.

We'll get a chance, instead, to see what Matt Flynn can do. He's been on a big stage before, winning a National Championship while at LSU, and being named the MVP of that game, in fact. In reports out of Green Bay all week, Packers players to a man were saying they had full confidence in Flynn and what he can do. No doubt, being able to work with the first unit offense all week and get his timing down with the receivers will be an advantage he didn't have when he had to jump into the Detroit game last weekend.

But unless the Packers can somehow generate a semblance of a running game, it could be a long night for Flynn. McCarthy's play calling cannot rely upon Flynn to be the throwing machine he's asked Rodgers to be all season long. The offensive line -- which was embarrassed by their poor level of play versus the Lions -- must create holes for running backs to get a few yards every once in a while. The best defense against Pats' QB Tom Brady is keeping him on the bench with long possessions. That works against McCarthy's typical mode of operation. Let's hope that he at least acknowledges the situation he and his team is in and does what's necessary to perhaps, maybe, possibly pull an upset. If he implements the same type of game plan that's been on display of late the game could be over for the Packers before the first half is out.

That's not to minimize the Packers' defense, which is the number one scoring defense in the league (if memory serves). It's just that they've been playing on fumes for quite a while, too. Injuries have plagued that unit all season long and this weekend is no exception. While S Atari Bigby might see some action, DE Cullen Jenkins is still out and LB Frank Zombo -- who himself was a starter by virtue of the injury parade -- is also likely out for the game and will be replaced as a starter by street free agent Erik Walden. Oy.

The players and coaches know that they put themselves in severe jeopardy of missing the playoffs as a result of the egg they laid in Detroit last Sunday. They lost ground on Da Bearz, not because of the loss as Chicago lost as well, but in terms of a second loss in the division, which comes into play should any tiebreakers be needed for playoff seeding. The Pack basically needs to look at winning out, winning their three remaining games. If the Pack loses Sunday night, even if Da Bearz lose versus the ViQueens on Monday night, Da Bearz win the NFC North and the Pack's playoff chances are as close to being on life support as it gets.

It's a big challenge for Matt Flynn and the Packers to rise to the occasion Sunday night. Is it possible that they will beat the Patriots? Sure. Is it probable? No.

Check back here tomorrow for a gameday preview and prediction.

Go Pack Go!!!

Rodgers likely out for Packers vs. Pats

OK. Let's be clear. This is NOT an official statement of any kind by the Green Bay Packers about their starting quarterback. It is purely speculation by yours truly -- and not a few media pundits -- that Aaron Rodgers will be not be available when the Pack meets the New England Patriots on Sunday night. The Packers, officially, are saying that no final decision on Rodgers' status will be made until Saturday.

What leads us to the conclusion regarding Rodgers' availability is that he has not been at meetings so far this week and did not even participate in a walk-through today at practice. Sports reporters noted that with Rodgers' earlier concussion in October he was at meetings and did attend the Wednesday practice. Apparently, the advice he is getting is to do nothing but allow the recovery to occur without doing anything to jeopardize himself.

So, given that, it's not looking good for Sunday,

Of course, playing New England on their home field, where the Patriots have not lost since 2008, by the way, is not easy under the best of circumstances. The Pats are red hot and have beat the bejeesus out of the their last two opponents, the Jets and Da Bearz, two ostensibly bound playoff teams. For the Packers, the injury to Rodgers is just a capper on what has a been a season filled with injuries to key personnel. The fact that the Pack has done as well as they have under these circumstances -- and without players or coaches making any excuses to the contrary -- is really a tribute to the entire team. But it might just be, with three games left in the season, that it's all just finally starting to catch up with them.

We should likely be looking for backup Matt Flynn to be under center come Sunday. It's not a sure thing, but it seems likely at this point. Practice squad QB Graham Harrell might be activated for the game. If something happened to Flynn, and if Harrell is not active, the emergency QB would be WR Jordy Nelson. One would figure Harrell will get the call-up for this weekend.

There are other walking-wounded for the Packers as well, whose availability and impact even if available is questionable. No need to review those here at this time. We'll see where everything is nearer game time.

For now, let's just hope Rodgers gets better in his own time and doesn't put his health at risk in trying to come back too quickly from his concussion. Of course, there are systems in place that make sure that doesn't happen until he really is ready from a medical standpoint. Having Rodgers around for years to come is more important to the Packers than having him available for a game which, frankly, would probably go in the loss column regardless given all the other circumstances involved.

Which was the biggest NFC North collapse?

Here's a quick one for you, folks: which was the worst collapse of this past weekend in the NFC North?

1. The collapse of the Metrodome (aka the Humpty Dump) roof in Minneapolis thanks to Snowmageddon 2010?

2. The blowout of Da Bearz by the Patriots in Chicago?

3. The loss by the Green Bay Packers to the Lions (the Lions!) in Detroit?

Tell us what you think in the online poll in the righthand column. You can vote until midnight Friday, Dec. 17.

It's official: Hell frozen over - Packers lose to Lions

The blizzard that blanketed the upper Midwest yesterday and today brought two things to light: Hell has frozen over and the Packers lost to the Detroit Lions. Actually, I think it was the second event that brought about the first.

In a game of epic futility and ineptitude, the Packers' offense could muster only a field goal all day long. While the offense was not clicking even when QB Aaron Rodgers was at the helm, the Pack's chances for a victory became even more suspect when he scrambled for a first down in the first half and failed to slide. Result? He took a shot to the back going down and wound up bouncing his head off the turf. He was immediately woozy. On the Packers' next offensive series, he was replaced by backup Matt Flynn and word spread quickly that Rodgers had a concussion and was done for the day.

This is Rodger's second concussion of the season, with his first coming in early October. This, to say the least, is not good. For Rodgers or the Packers. And the sad part is that Rodgers could have avoided it if he had just slid; he must have been absent for that training during quarterback school because he rarely does so. Perhaps if head coach Mike McCarthy starts fining him for every time he scrambles and doesn't slide maybe he'll start to get the hint. Rodgers' absence today, while not guaranteeing a Packers' loss to the lowly Lions, sure didn't help matters any on a day when the offense seemed totally lethargic.

In particular, the offensive line was beaten like a rented mule all day by the Lions' defensive front four. It was, simply put, a pathetic performance.

The Packers' defense, to its credit, only gave up 7 points which should make the Pack's high-powered offense a sure-fire winner. Except today. Three turnovers by the Packers' offense and the loss of Rodgers made a key division game yet another giveaway by the Packers. The Packers had previously had all four losses by 3 points; today, they lost by 4. Five losses by a combined total of 16 points.

This game severly hurt the Packers chances not only to win the NFC North but more importantly their chances for the playoffs. It's not a certainty yet, but the Packers did not take care of business today. Not even close. And that's what makes this loss so maddening.

If there is any silver lining right now it is that Da Bearz are getting whupped by the Patriots in Chicago 33-0 at halftime. So at least the Pack won't lose ground there. But they had an opportunity to gain ground and let it slip through their fingers.

Brrrrr...it's cold!!!

Packers vs. Lions Game Day

Yesterday's preview here indicated the obvious: that the Green Bay Packers will beat the Lions in Detroit today. Not that there isn't talent on the Lions team, because there is. Not that the players have quit on their head coach as Dallas and Minnesota did on their two now ex-head coaches, because they haven't. It's just that...well...the Packers have more talent in the key positions, more depth, and more incentive to win. The Packers need this game to keep pace in the race for the NFC North Division title and a playoff spot.

Refer to yesterday's post for more details on the game as I see it. While prognosticators seem to be split between those who think the Pack will win this game handily and those who think the Pack will win a close game much like the first meeting between the two teams, yours truly sees the Packers winning this one by a good margin. That's not to say it won't be a battle for a while. Especially if the Packers come out with one of their patented slow starts on offense. Still, the Packers needs this game and will win this game.

I'm calling this game Packers 38 - Lions 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

Follow me on Twitter for my in-game Tweets...which some followers tell me they find...not bad. Hey, that's at least as good as some of the name-brand coverage out there! And...it's FREE!

(Just as an aside: isn't the collapse of the Metrodome roof in Minneapolis a good metaphor for the ViQueens' season? Sometimes it's just too too obvious, isn't it? Still, in a bizarre twist, Packer fans will wind up having to root for the 'Queens against the Giants...whenever and wherever it is that the league can reschedule the game.)

Packers vs. Lions Preview

As a blizzard is set to hit Wisconsin, the Green Bay Packers are set to hit the Lions in Detroit. The Pack took to the air in time to beat the snowstorm. Still, a few players will not be on the field Sunday when gametime arrives. Key among them from the Packers' standpoint is DE Cullen Jenkins; he strained a calf muscle in last weekend's game vs. the 49ers. Trying to fill that sizable void on the D-line will be C. J. Wilson and Jarius Wynn. It's possible Howard Green might also be moved around in the rotation as well with B. J. Raji and Ryan Pickett.

But it's not the running game that is of primary concern from a defensive standpoint. It's the passing game of the Lions. And even though their starting quarterback, Matthew Stafford, is still sidelined, the backup to the backup, Drew Stanton, is a serviceable QB. Kinda like Jay Cutler...on a good day. (Ouch!) More importantly, whoever is tossing the ball in Motor City has WR Calvin Johnson on his side. His size and speed make him the Lions' main offensive weapon. But he's not the only one. TE Brandon Pettigrew benefits from Johnson opening things up. He's a big tight end, although not fast. Since linebackers A. J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop will likely wind up covering him, he may get some opportunities. But he should be able to be kept in check.

While a few Packers won't be on the field this time around, there was at least some good news going into the game: it appears that LT Chad Clifton is cleared to play, and the ankle sprain sustained during practice this week by Charles Woodson was not as serious as initially suspected; he'll also likely be good to go Sunday...it's a game in Michigan, right? Woodson won't miss that one!

The Packers are 10-4 in dome games under head coach Mike McCarthy. Is it surprising? The Packers offense is geared to the air game. And there's no better place to air out the ball, especially in December, than inside. I know, I know, that's almost heresy in Packerland. But given perfect conditions in which to throw the ball, guess what's going to happen? The Packers are going to light up the Lions, particularly given the sorry state of Detroit's secondary. QB Aaron Rodgers will have a big day, as will his receiving corps. Toss in a seemingly resurgent (yes, for the Packers that does mean just one game) running game with rookie James Starks and the Pack will be far more than the Lions can handle, even if they do happen to make it a game for a while.

Coach McCarthy, if memory serves, is 9-0 against the Lions. Sunday will make it 10-0. Despite the final score of the first meeting this season, most games aren't that close. The Packers are currently favored by 6-1/2 points. They'll take care of that going away.

What's my prediction on the final score? You'll have to check back Sunday morning for that. Barring a blizzard-born power outage, you'll get my call then.

For now...Go Pack Go!!!

Packers at mid-week

We've all had time to bask in the glow of a nice beat-down of the 49ers by our beloved Green Bay Packers last Sunday. After a bit of a sputtering first quarter or so, the offense clicked and the bend-don't-break defense did what it's been doing pretty much all season. We got to see Donald Driver make a TD catch and run that goes down in the all-time highlight reel. We saw a rookie running back, James Starks, finally get on the field for the Pack and rush for the most yards -- 73 -- by a Packer in a rookie debut since 1948. We saw QB Aaron Rodgers continue his streak of games and passes without an interception: 5 and 177 respectively. Oh, and that last one is now second in Packers' history behind Bart Starr. We saw WR Greg Jennings continue to light things up in a big way.

Unfortunately, though, the Packers lost DE Cullen Jenkins for at least a few weeks with a calf strain. And practice this week revealed that LT Chad Clifton actually sustained a concussion during the game, so he is going through the league protocol this week required to be cleared to play this coming Sunday. He did a jog-through at Wednesday's practice and that's usually seen as a good sign of being cleared to play in the next game. But Wednesday's practice also saw CB Charles Woodson depart the field with an ankle sprain, the severity of which is still unknown...or at least, undiscussed at this moment.

So, the Packers are on a bit of a roll. The upcoming opponent, the Detroit Lions, hmmm...not so much. To their credit, it's a 2-10 team that really should have a few more wins under their belt (e.g., remember the TD catch in Chicago to win that was overturned???). But they don't know how to close out games. This weekend's game versus the Packers is not the time for them to start figuring that out.

Observers and the Packers themselves know this will be a hard-fought game. The Lions, lest we forget, gave the Packers everything in a frightful near-comeback on Oct. 3. The Pack wound up winning by just 2 points while grinding out the clock. The Lions scored the most points against the Packers of any opponent the Packers have faced so far. They also racked up the most offensive yardage. Of course, this was also early in the season when the Packers were still adjusting to the onslaught of injuries on both sides of the ball. As we approach this week's game, the Packers have made their adjustments. If the players are focused -- and you can be sure coach Mike McCarthy and his assistants will have them very focused -- this game should not be in doubt. The Lions will give it all they have for as long as they can. But if the Packers get off to a fast start for a change, the game should be over long before it's over, if you know what I mean. And I think you do.

We'll do a more detailed preview closer to game time. So keep checking back for more.

Also, follow us on Twitter for more regular quick hits. Just click the icon in the righthand column, or click here. Or check the Twitter scroll here for the Tweets.

Packers down 49ers 34-16

On a typical December day in Wisconsin, the Green Bay Packers did what they typically do on a December game day at home: win. The Packers beat a capable, but subpar, San Francisco 49ers squad 34-16.

The first half, however, was ugly. The Packers offense started crisply, combining runs and passes to move the ball before petering out deep in the redzone (again) and watching K Mason Crosby's field goal attempt ding (again) off the left upright for no points. After that, coach Mike McCarthy's itchy trigger finger abandoned the run altogether and saw the offense sputter as a result. The Packers were down 3-0 at the end of the 1st quarter. They only led at half 14-10 after giving up a late TD after their own score.

But coming out of the locker room following the halftime break, the Packers' offense put up 20 points, 14 in the third quarter and 6 in the fourth, while only allowing the Niners 3 more points the entire second half.

The game also witnessed the first play of rookie RB James Starks, who many fans -- and coaches -- have been waiting to see on the field. Starks was a 6th round draft pick out of Buffalo who missed his entire senior year due to injury. He hadn't played a down of football since 2008. He also started this season with the Pack on the PUP list. Still, many were enamored with the possibility of what he might bring to the Pack's running game, which has been woeful at best following the loss of starter Ryan Grant in game #1. Fans got a glimpse of that today. Starks rushed 18 times for 73 yards, or a 4.1 yard-per-carry average. He had a long run of 16 yards. Starks has an upright running style which exposes him to possible injury more so than someone who runs with a lower pad level. Whether this is something running backs coach Edgar Bennett can work with him on or whether this is just his natural style remains to be seen. But any time a Packers running back actually leads in rushing yards rather than the Packers' QB, that's a plus. He didn't turn the ball over and always got positive yards, if memory serves. Expect to see more of Mr. Starks in the future for the Pack. Yay!

This was a game the Packers were expected to win and did. It might not have been pretty, especially in the early going, but it's what's up on the scoreboard when the clock reads 0:00 that matters. And that was: Packers 34 - 49ers 16.

Next up, the Lions in Detroit. The Packers will need to focus on them and not look past them to the Patriots a week later. That will be the biggest challenge.

But more about the Pack and the Lions in the week ahead. For now, let's savor this return to victory.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers - 49ers Preview

It's less than two hours to kickoff at a nippy (that's Wisconsin-ese for cold) Lambeau Field. It's the first game the Green Bay Packers have played back home since whupping the Cowboys back on Nov. 7. The weather has changed a bit since then. Today the forecast is for temps in the mid-20s and windy.

December, as we all know -- or are at least told -- is when the running game is supposed to carry the day in these bad weather games. Now, for folks outside of the Midwest, let's just say upfront that temperatures in the mid-20s is not exactly bad weather. At least for these parts. But cold and wind can affect the passing game. Given the fact that the weak spot of the Packers' offense is its running game, or more appropriately, lack thereof, this could be a concern. It shouldn't be today, however,

The 49ers have a decent run defense. But that's a bit moot when you're playing a team like the Packers who don't count on much from their running game anyway, right? Of course right. So, given that Aaron Rodgers doesn't seem to be bothered by the cold, expect the Pack to continue to do what they do, which is to spread out the defense and attack through the air. There should be plenty of opportunities to do just that today. Yes, it will be to the Packers' advantage for the rest of the season if they at least can muster a token rushing attack. But, the Packers are who they are and, perhaps more specifically, head coach Mike McCarthy is who he is, and the Pack's offense is centered around the passing game. It will either work or not like it is for the rest of the season. You just have to hope, however, they figure out how to rush for a yard or two at the goal line or to convert first downs on 3rd-and-one.

As for the Packers defense, they should have a good day going against the 49ers QB, Troy Smith. He's led the Niners to three wins in the last four games since replacing Alex Smith. He's more of a scrambler than a passer, which can cause some problems for a team like the Pack. But he's no Michael Vick. TE Vernon Davis is the 49ers version of Jermichael Finley. He can cause problems. And it's possible that LB A. J. Hawk might be matched up on coverage of Davis. Hawk has done a better job in coverage this year than last, but this is one of the times that the absence of Brandon Chillar might be very evident. The Packers should be able to handle the 49ers running game, although last week Brian Westbrook looked like the player of old, replacing Frank Gore and rushing for more than 100 yards. Westbrook always seemed to cause the Pack headaches when he was with Philadelphia. Let's hope those days are long gone.

There are many other aspects of this game which we could break down, including special teams which is always an adventure with the Packers. We don't, for example, know how Sam Shields will field kickoffs for the first time in cold weather. Nor do we know how punter Tim Masthay will punt in these conditions. Keep your fingers crossed that special teams do not cost the Packers a win again. Honestly, though, if it comes down to the special teams deciding the outcome of this game in yet another 3-point situation, there were bigger problems in the game than just special teams. That's not going to happen today.

The Packers are favored by 9-1/2 points. For our part, we're calling this game Packers 31 - 49ers 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

BTW...the Packers will be wearing their throwback uniforms today. Brown helmets (an homage to the original leather helmet days) and blue jerseys honoring the 1929 championship team. Some are referring to the look as the "Powerball" uniforms. You'll see why when you watch the game or see the highlights.

Packers players news and notes

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.