Great to be back from the bye week. Now we get a steady stream of Packers football from now through the end of the season.
Here are my thoughts on today's game:
*I like the adjustment in play calling to incorporate more short passes, but I feel that our play calling lacks creativity for much of the game. How many zone run plays can we run off right guard on first and 10? It's EVERY freaking series. Although, to give credit where it's due, the gimmick flea flicker play to Driver was nicely designed and well executed.
*Penalties will kill this team for the rest of the season if we can't get them corrected. Thirteen for 130 is absolutely atrocious against any team, much less one of the worst teams in the NFL. Worst of all, most of them are pre-snap penalties like illegal formations and false starts, and a few were stupid personal foul penalties (a facemask on Barnett, and late hit by Driver). If we have any chance in this division or for a wild card, we NEED to clean that up.
*Lang looks to be a player at LT and Colledge is nice at LG, but our O-line was very underwhelming today. Five sacks allowed and only 3.75 per carry for Grant, most of those coming in garbage time. Just not good enough. Multiple blitzes right up the gut resulted in Clifton and Barbre blocking NO ONE and Rodgers getting hit immediately.
*We're blessed to have Donald Driver as a Green Bay Packer. Congratulations on setting the career Packers receptions record, and boy, what a performance for the rest of the day today.
*Clay Matthews is really going to be a player. He stood out as a starter today, was always around the ball and has made impact plays with limited opportunities this season. This is the first time I've been REALLY excited about a defensive draft pick like this in a long time.
*If Aaron Rodgers ever gets top quality protection, he'll be mentioned with Brady, Manning and Brees as one of the top QBs in the NFL. One poor decision resulted in the interception, but the guy has a live arm and pinpoint accuracy. I know it's Detroit, but that's exactly how he's supposed to perform and he did.
*Great performance by the defense today. To put it in perspective, the Lions were 0/10 on 3rd downs, 0/2 on 4th downs, and averaged 3.1 yards per offensive play. In addition, Capers looked to finally have Kampman rushing out of a 3 point stance, and it resulted in a sack. Having Bigby back paid dividends as well. Well done, for the entire unit.
*Plays of the game: Driver one-handed catch.
Matthews' stop on 4th and 1.
Nick Collins' big hit.
If only the Ravens could have held up their end of the bargain in the dome...
Now we move on to the Browns. Let's get in a rhythm before the big divisional match up November 1st.
Full Version: Post Game Impressions
The truth of this game is this: The Lions are one of the worst teams in the NFL.
PLUS: They were riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball.
On offense, they were missing their best player, Calvin Johnson, and their starting QB.
On defense, they were down to five DL in the third quarter, and they play a 4-3. It got so bad they played an OL in a goal line situation.
And on top of that, the coaches made two terrible down and distance decisions on fourth down which backfired and gave GB the ball inside the fifty.
If GB had played Detroit at full strength, I still think they would have won, but it would have been a much closer game, like maybe 24-14.
If the situations had been reversed, that is GB had all the injuries at key positions, and the Lions had been at full strength, Detroit would have won.
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
PLUS: They were riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball.
On offense, they were missing their best player, Calvin Johnson, and their starting QB.
On defense, they were down to five DL in the third quarter, and they play a 4-3. It got so bad they played an OL in a goal line situation.
And on top of that, the coaches made two terrible down and distance decisions on fourth down which backfired and gave GB the ball inside the fifty.
If GB had played Detroit at full strength, I still think they would have won, but it would have been a much closer game, like maybe 24-14.
If the situations had been reversed, that is GB had all the injuries at key positions, and the Lions had been at full strength, Detroit would have won.
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 06:44 PM) 
The truth of this game is this: The Lions are one of the worst teams in the NFL.
PLUS: They were riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball.
On offense, they were missing their best player, Calvin Johnson, and their starting QB.
On defense, they were down to five DL in the third quarter, and they play a 4-3. It got so bad they played an OL in a goal line situation.
And on top of that, the coaches made two terrible down and distance decisions on fourth down which backfired and gave GB the ball inside the fifty.
If GB had played Detroit at full strength, I still think they would have won, but it would have been a much closer game, like maybe 24-14.
If the situations had been reversed, that is GB had all the injuries at key positions, and the Lions had been at full strength, Detroit would have won.
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
PLUS: They were riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball.
On offense, they were missing their best player, Calvin Johnson, and their starting QB.
On defense, they were down to five DL in the third quarter, and they play a 4-3. It got so bad they played an OL in a goal line situation.
And on top of that, the coaches made two terrible down and distance decisions on fourth down which backfired and gave GB the ball inside the fifty.
If GB had played Detroit at full strength, I still think they would have won, but it would have been a much closer game, like maybe 24-14.
If the situations had been reversed, that is GB had all the injuries at key positions, and the Lions had been at full strength, Detroit would have won.
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
WOW...WOW....WOW....
If I would have bought the right Lottery Ticket the other week I would have been a millionaire... Just Saying....
If I was 5 Inches taller and 20 pounds heavier...I may be able to try out as Left Tackle....
The Bengals Lost to the Texans... the Eagles look like they may Lose to the Raiders and oh yeah the Raiders have 6 SACKS on Donavan...
The SAINTS Spanked the Giants...
Do I like the stupid Penalities or the SACKS...Heck No....
But Come on.. the HYPOTHETICAL things...If I had a CRYSTAL BALL or the 2021 Sports Almanac... I would be Back to the Future...kinda of like COULDA.....WOULDA .....SHOULDA.....
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 03:44 PM)
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
The above is a true statement. After next week, the soft part of the schedule is over.
You will then need triplethick green and gold glasses, instead of the double thick ones you wear now.
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 03:44 PM)
The truth of this game is this: The Lions are one of the worst teams in the NFL.
PLUS: They were riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball.
On offense, they were missing their best player, Calvin Johnson, and their starting QB.
On defense, they were down to five DL in the third quarter, and they play a 4-3. It got so bad they played an OL in a goal line situation.
And on top of that, the coaches made two terrible down and distance decisions on fourth down which backfired and gave GB the ball inside the fifty.
If GB had played Detroit at full strength, I still think they would have won, but it would have been a much closer game, like maybe 24-14.
If the situations had been reversed, that is GB had all the injuries at key positions, and the Lions had been at full strength, Detroit would have won.
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
PLUS: They were riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball.
On offense, they were missing their best player, Calvin Johnson, and their starting QB.
On defense, they were down to five DL in the third quarter, and they play a 4-3. It got so bad they played an OL in a goal line situation.
And on top of that, the coaches made two terrible down and distance decisions on fourth down which backfired and gave GB the ball inside the fifty.
If GB had played Detroit at full strength, I still think they would have won, but it would have been a much closer game, like maybe 24-14.
If the situations had been reversed, that is GB had all the injuries at key positions, and the Lions had been at full strength, Detroit would have won.
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
I used to not come here after a loss, now I feel like I shouldn't come here after win
And the Raiders just beat the Eagles
QUOTE (rob836 @ Oct 18 2009, 06:14 PM)
I used to not come here after a loss, now I feel like I shouldn't come here after win And the Raiders just beat the Eagles
And the Raiders just beat the EaglesAnd Minnesota is 6-0 w/ that QB guy, what's his name? ...I guess I should feel happy?
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 06:12 PM)
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 05:44 PM)
GB is not a very good team right now, and they do not play smart football. They make too many mistakes, both physical and mental.
It was nice to win, but it was not a promising win.
The above is a true statement. After next week, the soft part of the schedule is over.
You will then need triplethick green and gold glasses, instead of the double thick ones you wear now.
I agree!!
That guy you quoted doesn't know SQUAT!!
Honestly though.
Quoting yourself and stating you are right??
An ugly win is better than ANY loss!!
Go Pack!!
I don't agree that an ugly win is better than any loss.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 05:14 PM)
I don't agree that an ugly win is better than any loss.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
So, you're saying that you rather have the Packers 2-3 rather than 3-2? Gotcha. Glad we have so many Packer fans that rather their team lose than take an ugly W.
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 08:14 PM)
I don't agree that an ugly win is better than any loss.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
QUOTE (VA_PackFan @ Oct 18 2009, 08:35 PM)
So, you're saying that you rather have the Packers 2-3 rather than 3-2? Gotcha. Glad we have so many Packer fans that rather their team lose than take an ugly W.
I think that is the jest of it VA.....
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 07:14 PM)
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
I don't think this coaching staff is a bit over confident and I'm sure that message will be relayed to the players...
The Pack is 3-2. 4-2 after next week by all oddsmakers. And yes Favre is having the best season ever by a 40 yr old. 13 to 2 touchdown to int ratio? Its good for the game. Chicago under the radar plays tonight. This is a good division the North.
QUOTE (R man @ Oct 18 2009, 08:45 PM)
I don't think this coaching staff is a bit over confident and I'm sure that message will be relayed to the players...
R-man...Nail on the head..>Quote from Rodgers after the Game...
"When you're playing a team that maybe has a little more experienced offense, we're going to have to cash in those opportunities for seven, not three," Aaron Rodgers said. "Because those are big momentum swings in a game."
mmm...does not sound like FALSE CONFIDENCE....Just Saying....
I just watched this same Lions team give the defending world champion Pittsburgh Steelers all they could handle, and I'm supposed to be miserable about Green Bay only beating them 26-0? Clay Matthews looks like a stud, the Packers made the adjustment to set up AK in a 2 point stance and it paid dividends, and Aaron Rodgers lit it up early and the team coasted to a big win ... good goodness, you'd have thought we lost, reading this thread.
QUOTE (diesel @ Oct 19 2009, 01:46 AM)
The Pack is 3-2. 4-2 after next week by all oddsmakers. And yes Favre is having the best season ever by a 40 yr old. 13 to 2 touchdown to int ratio? Its good for the game. Chicago under the radar plays tonight. This is a good division the North.
Yeah, the Packers are not a bad team, we just happen to be in a division where a supposed team of destiny is on the march with our former leader at the helm. It forces us to be more critical and negative.
I still remain optimistic. This team has a bright future. I think if we can resolve the offensive tackle issue and running game, we'll have everything in place. The rest of the team has depth and talent.
QUOTE (jpackman @ Oct 18 2009, 05:38 PM)
I think that is the jest of it VA.....
The gist of it is this:
We played one good team so far: the Vikings. We lost. By more than the score indicates.
We played one above average team so far. We lost.
Two of the three teams we defeated are among the worst in the NFL.
We are an average team by that measure.
But the real gist of it is this: We made the same errors in victory as in defeat. In other words, we did not play well in either situation.
That tells you one thing: GB is not a well coached team.
QUOTE (Phishtar @ Oct 18 2009, 05:49 PM)
I just watched this same Lions team give the defending world champion Pittsburgh Steelers all they could handle, and I'm supposed to be miserable about Green Bay only beating them 26-0? Clay Matthews looks like a stud, the Packers made the adjustment to set up AK in a 2 point stance and it paid dividends, and Aaron Rodgers lit it up early and the team coasted to a big win ... good goodness, you'd have thought we lost, reading this thread.
Seems to be a recurring trend here, recently. I know that expectations were high coming into the season, but come on. Its not like the Packers are downright awful. If the playoffs started today, guess what, the Packers make the playoffs. The Packers are 3-2, would we like to be 5-0? Yeah, sure, but you can't change the past and the past means absolutely nothing. All GB can do is focus on winning all their future games and try to bring the Lombardi Trophy back to its rightful home.
QUOTE (jpackman @ Oct 18 2009, 07:48 PM)
mmm...does not sound like FALSE CONFIDENCE....Just Saying....
Far from over confident.....
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 06:55 PM)
The gist of it is this:
We played one good team so far: the Vikings. We lost. By more than the score indicates.
We played one above average team so far. We lost.
Two of the three teams we defeated are among the worst in the NFL.
We are an average team by that measure.
But the real gist of it is this: We made the same errors in victory as in defeat. In other words, we did not play well in either situation.
That tells you one thing: GB is not a well coached team.
We played one good team so far: the Vikings. We lost. By more than the score indicates.
We played one above average team so far. We lost.
Two of the three teams we defeated are among the worst in the NFL.
We are an average team by that measure.
But the real gist of it is this: We made the same errors in victory as in defeat. In other words, we did not play well in either situation.
That tells you one thing: GB is not a well coached team.
Explain how the Lions almost beat Pittsburg.
What a great way to come back after a bye. A complete rout and butt kicking of the Lions. You have to feel good about that!
Bring on the Browns.
QUOTE (Ayt @ Oct 18 2009, 09:51 PM)
Explain how the Lions almost beat Pittsburg.
Don't you know AYT...
Cause IF the LIONS were injured as bad as they were today they would have been clobbered by Pittsburgh.... We have to get accustomed of using IF...SARCASM...
QUOTE (Ayt @ Oct 18 2009, 08:51 PM)
Explain how the Lions almost beat Pittsburg.
OR The Raiders beating Philly today..
QUOTE (R man @ Oct 19 2009, 07:55 AM)
OR The Raiders beating Philly today..
Hell just froze over.
QUOTE (R man @ Oct 18 2009, 08:55 PM)
OR The Raiders beating Philly today..
I predict the Pack will be tied for the division lead after the Viking/ Pack game Nov 1.
QUOTE (diesel @ Oct 18 2009, 09:00 PM)
I predict the Pack will be tied for the division lead after the Viking/ Pack game Nov 1.
I'm leaning towards that too Diesel....
A win is a win is a win. It's better to be the '00 Ravens than the '07 Patriots.
So some think the Packers are good. Some think that Packers are bad. Who cares?!? Five games into a season is by no means enough reference points to really prove anything. Debating specifics makes sense but this argument seems to arise after every game and it goes nowhere, fast.
Anyone hear anything on Raji, Nelson and Clifton?
Anyone hear anything on Raji, Nelson and Clifton?
QUOTE (diesel @ Oct 19 2009, 08:00 AM)
I predict the Pack will be tied for the division lead after the Viking/ Pack game Nov 1.
HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA !!!!!
QUOTE (stuffin @ Oct 18 2009, 09:09 PM)
HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA !!!!!
After the Viking bye week we will be 6 and 2.. Thats what diesel meant...
QUOTE (R man @ Oct 18 2009, 09:12 PM)
After the Viking bye week we will be 6 and 2.. Thats what diesel meant...
Yes. Thank you.
I won't b**** and moan like other about winning, because that is just stupid...
But I wanted to win so convincingly today, to qualm some of my beliefs about this team...
Didn't happen, but I'll take it.
My issues with Week 6:
1. Penalties. I can't even get into this anymore, this has been a problem since Day 1, and by Day 1 I mean since MM was hired. You know it, I know it, your grandpappy knows it...MM has an undisciplined team. Plain and simple. Thinking this is going to change soon, is like asking God to let you win the lottery...It ain't happenin'.
2. Play-Calling. I can't even go into this anymore either...1st down, run right. Next first down, run right. The flea-flicker was a start, but that wasn't a giant leap by any means. MM is not an imaginitive play-caller, you want to see imaginative you should have tuned into the Payton's Saints put on a clinic against the GGGGG-Men.
3. Leaving TD's in the Red-Zone. Ugh. Aggravating.
4. I know there was talk about drafting Marshawn Lynch in the draft a few years ago when we drafted Harrell, and he wasn't the answer, but the idea behind it was. This team needs a feature back with vision and elusiveness. I can't blame Grant, he is what he is and most of us we're suckered by it. The book is out on him now, and it's not even close to being a best-seller. Same goes for Jackson and Wynn. Straight RB fodder, folks.
5. Leave Tramon out there for punt returns, and leave Woodson on the bench. Tramon's legs and vision make him a playmaker in this role.
Things I loved about Week 6:
1. Donald Driver. The man is like a fine wine, friends. Enjoy these moments because I doubt we ever see another like him.
2. Keeping the TE's involved. Both Lee and Jermichael got in on the action. That was nice.
3. Seeing Kampman with his hands in the dirt. A lovely sight for sore eyes. Watching him rip a QB to the ground was welcomed as well.
4. Clay Matthews. Said it in another thread, but, how can you not be excited about his potential, and his potential to thrive in Capers' system.
5. Welcome back Atari Bigby. I can't believe I'm sying this, but I actually missed ya out there.
That's all I can think of for now.
But I wanted to win so convincingly today, to qualm some of my beliefs about this team...
Didn't happen, but I'll take it.
My issues with Week 6:
1. Penalties. I can't even get into this anymore, this has been a problem since Day 1, and by Day 1 I mean since MM was hired. You know it, I know it, your grandpappy knows it...MM has an undisciplined team. Plain and simple. Thinking this is going to change soon, is like asking God to let you win the lottery...It ain't happenin'.
2. Play-Calling. I can't even go into this anymore either...1st down, run right. Next first down, run right. The flea-flicker was a start, but that wasn't a giant leap by any means. MM is not an imaginitive play-caller, you want to see imaginative you should have tuned into the Payton's Saints put on a clinic against the GGGGG-Men.
3. Leaving TD's in the Red-Zone. Ugh. Aggravating.
4. I know there was talk about drafting Marshawn Lynch in the draft a few years ago when we drafted Harrell, and he wasn't the answer, but the idea behind it was. This team needs a feature back with vision and elusiveness. I can't blame Grant, he is what he is and most of us we're suckered by it. The book is out on him now, and it's not even close to being a best-seller. Same goes for Jackson and Wynn. Straight RB fodder, folks.
5. Leave Tramon out there for punt returns, and leave Woodson on the bench. Tramon's legs and vision make him a playmaker in this role.
Things I loved about Week 6:
1. Donald Driver. The man is like a fine wine, friends. Enjoy these moments because I doubt we ever see another like him.
2. Keeping the TE's involved. Both Lee and Jermichael got in on the action. That was nice.
3. Seeing Kampman with his hands in the dirt. A lovely sight for sore eyes. Watching him rip a QB to the ground was welcomed as well.
4. Clay Matthews. Said it in another thread, but, how can you not be excited about his potential, and his potential to thrive in Capers' system.
5. Welcome back Atari Bigby. I can't believe I'm sying this, but I actually missed ya out there.
That's all I can think of for now.
QUOTE (R man @ Oct 18 2009, 07:12 PM)
After the Viking bye week we will be 6 and 2.. Thats what diesel meant...
Your green and gold glasses are so thick, that you cannot do arithmetic.
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 09:39 PM)
Your green and gold glasses are so thick, that you cannot do arithmetic.
What is so unbelievable about that?
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 08:39 PM)
Your green and gold glasses are so thick, that you cannot do arithmetic.
What? It is unbelievable that GB can beat the Browns away and then the Vikings at home? It isn't like the Packers are getting blown away by the good teams. 7 points, both times. And a defense that has Bigby back at safety will allow Capers to fully open his playbook the second time around, rather than have to play it safe to cover the safety's mistakes. Lets not forget that the Packers neutralized AP, a feat which not many teams can do. At least a semi-competent safety plays and at least a little bit of the pass game will be neutralized. Maybe give Lang the start at LT next game and at the Vikings and see what happens? The offense has been getting their points, regardless of how they come. As long as the defense shows up to play, I have no reason not to believe that the Packers have a decent shot at beating the Vikings, at home.
Im not going to say a win is a win but some fans need to take a deep breath. Are the packers pretty? No but they have won more than they have lost so far and are 2-1 in the divison, and 2-1 at home. Thats a pretty good start.
The fact is its hard to shut out any team in the NFL (heck the lions who are probably the worst team the last decade haven been shut out since 01) plus with as many problems as we had today we still scored 26 points. Plus just because the lions arent a good team doesnt mean that they cant make some stops or get some sacks. They arent just going to role over for us.
I know everyone will say well we should of won by more and thats true but you can also say we scored 26 points even though we played badly, how many teams can do that?
The fact is we beat a good Bears team, got surprise by a solid Bengals team, beat two teams we should of beaten, and lost to a very good-great team on the ROAD.
Like someone said fans are just more down because of you know who and whats going on in minnesota. Green Bay has its problem but every team does. The nice thing is ares are all fixable, pre snap flags, drop balls, and assignments.
Plus GB has had an injury problem. Bigby and Clifton were BIG injuries. Bigby's injury handcuffed the defense alot. And it was clear GB didnt have a plan for Clifton's injury. One injury shouldnt of moved like everyone on the line we might as wellof had three injuries on the oline. If thye just keep with lang things will improve. Plus if tauscher gets back to RT things will get much better.
Nov 1st will tell us what Green Bay will be in 09. Its a home game that they need in the divison so I wait to judge thePackers until then.
The fact is its hard to shut out any team in the NFL (heck the lions who are probably the worst team the last decade haven been shut out since 01) plus with as many problems as we had today we still scored 26 points. Plus just because the lions arent a good team doesnt mean that they cant make some stops or get some sacks. They arent just going to role over for us.
I know everyone will say well we should of won by more and thats true but you can also say we scored 26 points even though we played badly, how many teams can do that?
The fact is we beat a good Bears team, got surprise by a solid Bengals team, beat two teams we should of beaten, and lost to a very good-great team on the ROAD.
Like someone said fans are just more down because of you know who and whats going on in minnesota. Green Bay has its problem but every team does. The nice thing is ares are all fixable, pre snap flags, drop balls, and assignments.
Plus GB has had an injury problem. Bigby and Clifton were BIG injuries. Bigby's injury handcuffed the defense alot. And it was clear GB didnt have a plan for Clifton's injury. One injury shouldnt of moved like everyone on the line we might as wellof had three injuries on the oline. If thye just keep with lang things will improve. Plus if tauscher gets back to RT things will get much better.
Nov 1st will tell us what Green Bay will be in 09. Its a home game that they need in the divison so I wait to judge thePackers until then.
what i liked:
- DEFENSE baby! even playing against the lions twice a year, we don't see a shut-out too often. pressure was a lot better this game. edit: forgot to mention, we've been harping on letting Kampy put his hand on the ground a few times per game, so it was nice to see him get the chance and to be effective from the line.
- Driver: greatest packer receiver of my lifetime. loved the one-handers from him and Jennings today!
- Finley looks like he's gonna be a player. i hope we keep feeding him.
- glad to see the coaching staff has enough confidence in Lang (or maybe has just seen enough of College) at LT. if he has to play and is getting beat, we can always keep another guy back there. it beats weakening the entire line.
what i didn't like:
- another drop from Lee. Finley should probably get the nod to start, but i think they like Lee's blocking and the chance to sneak Finely in for mismatches.
- OL in general wasn't great to say the least, especially against scrubs. but they were better than what we've seen at some points this year. Cliffy wasn't all there mentally, i don't know if that's a little rust or if he's thinking about the injury...
- Grant just doesn't seem to be very good. i know he's not getting huge holes to run through, but he's got to create some on his own sometimes. that's what good RBs do, and he rarely seems to do it.
- Woodson returning punts. i would rather let it bounce than risk him to injury. he's far too important to our defense. also, Nelson clearly shouldn't be back there either. Tramon? Brandon Jackson maybe?
overall, it was a nice victory, even if we got sloppy. honestly i think the guys kinda realized they were steamrolling the Lions scrubs (qb, wr, and DL...hmmm those are kind of important positions) and went into coast mode about halfway through the 2nd quarter. would i rather see us completely demolish a team like the Pats did to the Titans? of course, but this was still a pasting.
- DEFENSE baby! even playing against the lions twice a year, we don't see a shut-out too often. pressure was a lot better this game. edit: forgot to mention, we've been harping on letting Kampy put his hand on the ground a few times per game, so it was nice to see him get the chance and to be effective from the line.
- Driver: greatest packer receiver of my lifetime. loved the one-handers from him and Jennings today!
- Finley looks like he's gonna be a player. i hope we keep feeding him.
- glad to see the coaching staff has enough confidence in Lang (or maybe has just seen enough of College) at LT. if he has to play and is getting beat, we can always keep another guy back there. it beats weakening the entire line.
what i didn't like:
- another drop from Lee. Finley should probably get the nod to start, but i think they like Lee's blocking and the chance to sneak Finely in for mismatches.
- OL in general wasn't great to say the least, especially against scrubs. but they were better than what we've seen at some points this year. Cliffy wasn't all there mentally, i don't know if that's a little rust or if he's thinking about the injury...
- Grant just doesn't seem to be very good. i know he's not getting huge holes to run through, but he's got to create some on his own sometimes. that's what good RBs do, and he rarely seems to do it.
- Woodson returning punts. i would rather let it bounce than risk him to injury. he's far too important to our defense. also, Nelson clearly shouldn't be back there either. Tramon? Brandon Jackson maybe?
overall, it was a nice victory, even if we got sloppy. honestly i think the guys kinda realized they were steamrolling the Lions scrubs (qb, wr, and DL...hmmm those are kind of important positions) and went into coast mode about halfway through the 2nd quarter. would i rather see us completely demolish a team like the Pats did to the Titans? of course, but this was still a pasting.
QUOTE (BFavre4MVP @ Oct 18 2009, 08:50 PM)
What is so unbelievable about that?
Because they are 3-2 right now. Cleveland and Minny is two games. So the best they can do is 5-2.
Not 6-2.
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 19 2009, 03:52 AM)
Because they are 3-2 right now. Cleveland and Minny is two games. So the best they can do is 5-2.
Not 6-2.
Not 6-2.
Not trying to wade into this gloom and doom vs sunny days conflict, but I believe the quote was
QUOTE (R man @ Oct 18 2009, 09:12 PM)
After the Viking bye week we will be 6 and 2.. Thats what diesel meant...
You responded
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 10:39 PM)
Your green and gold glasses are so thick, that you cannot do arithmetic.
Actually the week of the Vikings bye the Packers play Tampa Bay...
While one may accuse diesel and/or R man of counting their eggs/victories before they are hatched/achieved, their math is just fine if Pittsburg defeats MN and Green Bay defeats Cleveland, MN and TB.
I am not much of an IF guy, nor a look beyond the game in front of you guy.
Green Bay kicked a dog to the curb as they should have this week. There are things to be excited about and things of concern that needed to be addressed and corrected.
There is NO need for fans to get into hair-splitting arguments about math or accusations that involve green-and-gold glasses or questioning anothers fanhood IMO
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 10:39 PM)
Your green and gold glasses are so thick, that you cannot do arithmetic.
Oh really? Assuming be beat Cleveland, MN, and TB and assuming MN loses to Pitt and GB both clubs would be 6 - 2 going into their respective games come November 15th... And if I choose to put on my Green and Gold glasses that's my choice.. Why are you mocking me about it?
Yes its a win and I'm happy about that.
Do I think the Packers have magically become a better team, no I don't think so.
Do I think the Packers have magically become a better team, no I don't think so.
Minnesota should have lost that game yesterday, they are having one of those seasons so far where everything is going their way.
I'm looking forward to the second half of the season where their lucky streak runs out and things fall apart.
I'm looking forward to the second half of the season where their lucky streak runs out and things fall apart.
QUOTE (Bruce @ Oct 19 2009, 04:43 PM)
Not trying to wade into this gloom and doom vs sunny days conflict, but I believe the quote was
You responded
Actually the week of the Vikings bye the Packers play Tampa Bay...
While one may accuse diesel and/or R man of counting their eggs/victories before they are hatched/achieved, their math is just fine if Pittsburg defeats MN and Green Bay defeats Cleveland, MN and TB.
I am not much of an IF guy, nor a look beyond the game in front of you guy.
Green Bay kicked a dog to the curb as they should have this week. There are things to be excited about and things of concern that needed to be addressed and corrected.
There is NO need for fans to get into hair-splitting arguments about math or accusations that involve green-and-gold glasses or questioning anothers fanhood IMO
You responded
Actually the week of the Vikings bye the Packers play Tampa Bay...
While one may accuse diesel and/or R man of counting their eggs/victories before they are hatched/achieved, their math is just fine if Pittsburg defeats MN and Green Bay defeats Cleveland, MN and TB.
I am not much of an IF guy, nor a look beyond the game in front of you guy.
Green Bay kicked a dog to the curb as they should have this week. There are things to be excited about and things of concern that needed to be addressed and corrected.
There is NO need for fans to get into hair-splitting arguments about math or accusations that involve green-and-gold glasses or questioning anothers fanhood IMO
IF THE PACKERS played this sloppy of a game against their remaining opponents, they would go 4 and 7.
There is an IF game for ya.
QUOTE (Gregg @ Oct 18 2009, 11:14 PM)
I don't agree that an ugly win is better than any loss.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
Ugly wins over bad teams like the Lions tend to build false confidence.
If you play a really good team down to the wire, that instills real confidence. Since it s a real achievement and not a mirage.
Dude....W's are W's. There are no moral victories...period.
I'm thrilled about the win, but I can see where some people still have reservations. Every game so far, we've had issues with pass protection, penalities, and running the ball.
The defense has been hit or miss and they were fantastic today. So that's encouraging. But certainly one has to wonder if those other 3 issues are going to improve at all. If they don't, I don't see how we get very far. I was really hoping to see some progress in those areas.
Next week we get the Browns and while we might be able to get away with these deficiencies next week, it would behoove us to get these things fixed before MN comes to town.
But I think it's fair to ask, why haven't we seen improvement in these areas after 5 weeks? Especially where the penalties are concerned.
The defense has been hit or miss and they were fantastic today. So that's encouraging. But certainly one has to wonder if those other 3 issues are going to improve at all. If they don't, I don't see how we get very far. I was really hoping to see some progress in those areas.
Next week we get the Browns and while we might be able to get away with these deficiencies next week, it would behoove us to get these things fixed before MN comes to town.
But I think it's fair to ask, why haven't we seen improvement in these areas after 5 weeks? Especially where the penalties are concerned.
What is the one common thread with those three problems? The offensive line. So you can really roll it all up into ONE problem. Sure, there are penalties here and there on ST and Defense, but primarily it's an O line problem.
After listening to the radio yesterday after the game and seeing the newpaper headlines about yesterday's game being an ugly win, I'm fed up with the negativity I see. Granted there are reasons to be negative about yesterday's game, but when I see that my team put 26 points up on the board with a big fat goose egg where the opponents score is supposed to go, I generally think that it was a pretty good game for my team. In fact, I expected unbridled optimism after a shutout.... but I heard none of that.
Only major issue I really see is the penalties. The penalties caused them to have to settle for field goals where they could have had touchdowns. They put the first down marker further away, making it easier to sack AR. The sacks, I'm not as down on this game, considering the Lions were often blitzing 2 or 3 players to put up that kind of pressure, which they of course were able to expose by having wide open receivers on the plays AR wasn't sacked. But lets say they only had 4 or 5 penalties as would be expected, they turn two of those field goals into touchdowns, Aaron Rodgers would have over 400 yards with 3 or 4 touchdown passes, AR is sacked only 3 or 4 times, and the final score is 34-0.
I see way more positives though... starting with the linebackers. Aaron Kampman looked great. He was getting pressure on the QB, getting a sack and forcing Culpepper to throw the interception to Jenkins. He was used to rush the passer more often, and he did decent in coverage. Clay Mathews is a playmaker, and he's got a deathgrip on the starting job for the remainder of the season if he can stay healthy. Barnett for the first time looked like he did last year before he injured his knee. Aaron Rodgers looked like a pro-bowler and the receivers only dropped two passes that I counted, which is much more in line with what you would expect as a per game average. Driver and Jennings once again looked like one of the best receiver tandoms. Lang looked to be an okay solution while Clifton recovers (and he won't get the stupid penalties that Clifton gets) while Babre looks a bit more comfortable each game he plays. Kapinos only stepped onto the field twice, which is pretty impressive considering the number of drives that should have been killed by penalties.
Granted, it was against the Lions, and there is room for improvement especially with the offensive line, but I don't expect a 26 point margin of victory over any team regardless of talent (most I would go is maybe 14-17 points... as an expectation at least). Hardly an ugly win.
Only major issue I really see is the penalties. The penalties caused them to have to settle for field goals where they could have had touchdowns. They put the first down marker further away, making it easier to sack AR. The sacks, I'm not as down on this game, considering the Lions were often blitzing 2 or 3 players to put up that kind of pressure, which they of course were able to expose by having wide open receivers on the plays AR wasn't sacked. But lets say they only had 4 or 5 penalties as would be expected, they turn two of those field goals into touchdowns, Aaron Rodgers would have over 400 yards with 3 or 4 touchdown passes, AR is sacked only 3 or 4 times, and the final score is 34-0.
I see way more positives though... starting with the linebackers. Aaron Kampman looked great. He was getting pressure on the QB, getting a sack and forcing Culpepper to throw the interception to Jenkins. He was used to rush the passer more often, and he did decent in coverage. Clay Mathews is a playmaker, and he's got a deathgrip on the starting job for the remainder of the season if he can stay healthy. Barnett for the first time looked like he did last year before he injured his knee. Aaron Rodgers looked like a pro-bowler and the receivers only dropped two passes that I counted, which is much more in line with what you would expect as a per game average. Driver and Jennings once again looked like one of the best receiver tandoms. Lang looked to be an okay solution while Clifton recovers (and he won't get the stupid penalties that Clifton gets) while Babre looks a bit more comfortable each game he plays. Kapinos only stepped onto the field twice, which is pretty impressive considering the number of drives that should have been killed by penalties.
Granted, it was against the Lions, and there is room for improvement especially with the offensive line, but I don't expect a 26 point margin of victory over any team regardless of talent (most I would go is maybe 14-17 points... as an expectation at least). Hardly an ugly win.
A thought re: the OL penalties and accountability. I'm just curious about what accountability would mean to everyone here. I mean, we know that in practice if you commit a penalty MM will pull the player and put someone else in. That doesn't seem to happen in games. Should it? Every time Clifton false starts, should he be pulled for a series just to make a point? When Barbre holds, should he be yanked? Just want to know what people think.
To be honest I think the time for that stuff is long over for McCarthy. He's been there long enough where if he did that sort of thing I think the players would tune him out. That's the sort of thing that McCarthy needed to do in his first year - hold everyone accountable regardless of salary or stature. I think those guys know that they can play sloppy and still keep their jobs because there's no threat of in-game benching. This is the way a Mike McCarthy team will operate for better or worse.
To be honest I think the time for that stuff is long over for McCarthy. He's been there long enough where if he did that sort of thing I think the players would tune him out. That's the sort of thing that McCarthy needed to do in his first year - hold everyone accountable regardless of salary or stature. I think those guys know that they can play sloppy and still keep their jobs because there's no threat of in-game benching. This is the way a Mike McCarthy team will operate for better or worse.
QUOTE (chewdog @ Oct 19 2009, 11:48 AM)
After listening to the radio yesterday after the game and seeing the newpaper headlines about yesterday's game being an ugly win, I'm fed up with the negativity I see. Granted there are reasons to be negative about yesterday's game, but when I see that my team put 26 points up on the board with a big fat goose egg where the opponents score is supposed to go, I generally think that it was a pretty good game for my team. In fact, I expected unbridled optimism after a shutout.... but I heard none of that.
I tend to be one of the more optimistic voices around here, but even I thought yesterday was pretty disappointing. Forget the score. There are maybe 3 teams in the NFL we could've beaten with yesterday's performance. Thankfully we were playing one of those teams (minus arguably their two best players), who then had to turn to their 3rd string QB. Were there some bright spots? Sure. Whatever. It was the Lions.
Be hopeful and upbeat if you want, but we need to get our act together. Big time. I thought yesterday was one of Rodgers' and the Packers' worst games to date. This is a team that is very out of sync right now.
One final thing...I would love for our running game to not be so obvious and telegraphed. Watching the Packers, you just know when we're going to run the ball.
Current negativity aside, I still think this team is capable of greatness. Go Pack.
QUOTE (rpiotr01 @ Oct 19 2009, 11:01 AM)
A thought re: the OL penalties and accountability. I'm just curious about what accountability would mean to everyone here. I mean, we know that in practice if you commit a penalty MM will pull the player and put someone else in. That doesn't seem to happen in games. Should it? Every time Clifton false starts, should he be pulled for a series just to make a point? When Barbre holds, should he be yanked? Just want to know what people think.
That's the sort of thing that McCarthy needed to do in his first year - hold everyone accountable regardless of salary or stature.
That's the sort of thing that McCarthy needed to do in his first year - hold everyone accountable regardless of salary or stature.
I jsut don't think that's practical. Harris and Woodson used to get a ton of defensive holding calls- spome real costly. Do you pull them? Do you pull Donald Driver for his penalty yesterday, or Nick Barnett? Even Barbe and Clifton, I just don't see what pulling guys out will prove. They know they commited a penalty, embarrassing them may make you feel like MM is "doing" something but that seems like highs cool stuff to me.
There really hasn't been one guy that's been a problem, it changes week to week. Ultimately, I agree that the buck stops with MM. At the same time, I'm not sure what he can really do to stop the penalties. He makes it a huge point every week in practice, the players will tell you that.
I've always hated the, "Well, X team almost beat Y team, so that means we should beat X team" analogy. Specifically, just because the Lions played the Steelers well last week doesn't mean jack in my book. Look, the Raiders WON yesterday. That should tell you something.
Regardless, this game yesterday was about as close to a, "gimmie" as you can possibly have. You take an awful (yet improving) team and take away by FAR, their two best players. I don't think a win is that surprising.
That's not to say that I'm not happy with it. But I think it was very expected.
There was plenty of bright spots (Clay, Rodgers, Driver) but the team, coming off a bye --- still lacked in a lot of areas. It'll be interesting to see how they do against tough opponents in the coming weeks.
If it's a trend that continues, they're going to be in real danger of having a losing record.
Regardless, this game yesterday was about as close to a, "gimmie" as you can possibly have. You take an awful (yet improving) team and take away by FAR, their two best players. I don't think a win is that surprising.
That's not to say that I'm not happy with it. But I think it was very expected.
There was plenty of bright spots (Clay, Rodgers, Driver) but the team, coming off a bye --- still lacked in a lot of areas. It'll be interesting to see how they do against tough opponents in the coming weeks.
If it's a trend that continues, they're going to be in real danger of having a losing record.
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.