Time For a Little Adversity?

 News today - David Bakhtiari out for the season - an ACL practice injury.  Now what?

First, Aaron Rodgers.  The left tackle is a QB's BEST friend!  Bakhtiari is THE highest paid left tackle in the league!  So, if ANY team loses their left tackle it is a critical loss!  So, do the Packers have the depth to overcome this?????

Never, easy, but the Packers are in a good place!  Why?

Reason 1 - Elgton Jenkins - this second year player has turned heads in the NFL!  All Pro already!  Playing 3 positions - center, guard, & tackle!  So, this player is special with a capital S!

Reason 2 - Corey Linsley - he is back!  Missed a few games.  Again, the NFL players have recognized him as maybe the BEST center in the league!  So, this is GOOD!

Reason 3 - Billy Turner - this pro, in year 7, has also proved VERY versatile!  He may be moved around the offensive line where needed!  He is solid!

Reason 4 - Lucas Patrick - the Underdog!  An un-drafted free agent, spent 2016 on the practice squad!  He has played like he has something to prove!  He will give his VERY BEST!

Reason 5 - Rick Wagner - remember, he came over from the Lions to replace Bulaga.  He has done a good job, but is nicked up.  Is adequate when healthy!

Reason 6 - Jon Runyan has great genes, but still needs to do it on his own!  At least at guard, he can hold his own.  Playoff time, we do not know!  Josh Nijman & Simon Stepaniak in a pinch, but not long term this year!

So, The Packers can survive, BUT Bakhtiari WILL be missed!!!

Time for...........................................

Next Man Up!

More Green Bay - Tennessee Analysis

 As always, a look at the Packer Drives Chart is in order:

1 - TD - A first drive touchdown is always a key to success & Rodgers to Adams!

2 - TD - an EQ Brown TD is a great sign, we need to complement Adams! (Lazard, Tonyan, etc)

3 - TD - more Rodgers & Adams!

4 - Downs

5 - End of Half

6 - TD - the second most important drive, answering the Titans TD to open the half!

7 - TD - AJ Dillon TD run!

8 - Interception - A rare Aaron interception, rolling right and throwing left into traffic!

9 - TD - AJ Dillon TD run, have we found another weapon?

10 - End of Game

Let's review, really 8 drives. And, 6 TD's.  Will take that any week!  The only blip, an Aaron Rodgers interception.  We will allow him to be "human" sometime during a game!  Now, one week to go.  And, how to end a nice season, a win against the Bears of course!!!!

Go Pack Go!

Best the Bears!!

Lambeau Field, Snow & A Big Win!

Lambeau Field, Snow & A Big Win!  But, my biggest smile came from the Packer run defense topping the top running back in the league!  A quick look at the reason for success?

1 - Getting ahead on the scoreboard!  A team, like the Titans, are built of running the ball, controlling the game & playing defense.  The Packers, jumped up early, and stayed ahead!  

2 - Rodgers to Adams.  The combination is deadly & Adams is proving himself as the BEST receiver in the NFL.  (Only thing, Rodgers make look for him a little too much)

3 - Packer Running Game.  Hello & Welcome AJ Dillion!  The rookie looked great in the snow!  The rookie looked very difficult to bring down!  The rookie caught the ball out of the backfield.  The ROOKIE do not look like a ROOKIE!

 4 - And, of course, my favorite item - PACKERS RUN DEFENSE.  Help Henry under 100 yards!  Did not allow any huge runs!  Maybe, the players & coaches figured something out!

So, on first glance & using the good old, "EYEBALL CHECK"!  This fans eyes were VERY happy!

Go Pack Go!

If I was Coaching Aaron Rodgers............

If I was Coaching Aaron Rodgers............

OK, for the next 15 minutes, I am the Head Coach of the Green Bay Packers.  And, today, I am meeting with my future Hall of Fame quarterback - Aaron Rodgers.  We are going over game film, and we are using a new camera angle.  The camera is only focused on Aaron Rodgers face!  YEP!  That is it, his face!  Not the plays, not the defense, not the offensive line blocking!  We are watching the facial expression on Aaron's Mug!  What do I see?

1 - A smile

2 - A frown 

3 - A stare

4 - A shaking of the head

5 - A giggle

6 - Reading his lips, "I love gold!"

7 - A State Farm look

8 - A smirk

9 - A look of disgust

10 - A complicated, talented, intelligent, other comments about Aaron:

Josh Norman, Redskins cornerback, "That is pretty much like Gandalf the White(from Lord of the Rings) over there!  That's a wizard.  That's who is, to me."

Colin Cowherd, sports big mouth.  " When the going gets tough, Rodgers bails."                                        (I DO NOT like Cowerd!)

 Discussing Rodgers an unnamed player said, pertaining to the Rodgers & McCarthy issues, "That was a large cancer in the locker room.  It wasn't a secret."

I have always felt Aaron Rodgers is his own worse enemy.  Issues with his family & parents.  At age 37, many different women have entered & exited his life.  Issues with his coaches.  Issues with his teammates. and, as I pointed out, just watching him on the football field.

No one is perfect, Favre had his share of issues & did some crazy things.  Most people under the eye of today's media, social media, and all the other people digging for dirt, would have trouble staying normal! And, what is normal?  

All I know is as a leader, Aaron, even at age 37 is not perfect, even though, he probably thinks he is!

Packers Win! And, a Tale of Two Half!

 Jeckyl - Hyde

How does this happen?????  My Football Theory (From years of coaching, watching & common sense!)

1 - It happens in EVERY sport!  You see it all the time, golf, one day Dustin Johnson shoots a 65, next day a 75!  A basketball will hit almost every shot the first half, and then shoot bricks in the second half!  A baseball player will hit everything hard for a week, then, will not hit, "the broad side of a barn door!" So, as I said "It happens!"

2 - Sports & Consistency.  Good teams, good players, good coaches are consistent.  So, coaches.  Practice & consistent focus.  Players held accountable.  An aggressive mind set, play to win on every play, on every drive, every quarter, every game!  Run a play consistently!  Get ready for the games consistently!  Players - same concept!  Practice, games, 1st Half & 2nd half - FOCUS on being consistent!

3 - The Other Team?  They want to win toooooo!  You must match or top their intensity!  

4 - Are there plays or a defense that is a confidence builder?  Is their a player, or players that you have faith in?  Rodgers to Adams?  A matchup against an opponent that is a win?    Build on success!

5 -Use a timeout wisely?  Take a big breath & re-focus!  A confidence builder? A stupid joke to relax!  A player, instead of a coach to lead during the timeout?  

The Packers are 11-3.  The Packers have clinched the NFC North!  The Packers still have the BEST record in the NFC!  The Packers are in a GOOD place!

Now, a look at the Packer offensive drives!

1 - TD - 7 plays

2 - TD - 13 plays

3 - TD - 7 plays

4 - Punt - 7 plays

5 - Punt 4 plays & out

Half - Packers 21 - Panthers 3

6 - Punt - 3 & out

7 - Punt - 3 & out

8 - Punt - 4 & out

After 3rd Quarter - Packers 21 - Panthers 10

9 - FG - 10 plays

10 - Punt - 3 & out

11 - End of game!

End of Game - Packers 24 - Panthers 16

So, enjoy the moment!  

Go Pack Go!

Packers vs Panthers, Game #14 Still Means Everything!

 Yes, we are NFC Noth Champs.  Yes we are the NFC #1 Seed!  But, 3 games left and the Panthers are a team that fall into that dangerous group playing for pride!  Nothing to lose! Out of the Panthers 9 loses, 7 have been by one possession.  So, another game that the Packers MUST bring their "A" Game.

What to look for from the Packers viewpoint:

1 - Defense, specifically Packers defense against the rush!  It looks like RB, Christian McCafferey will not play, but the Panthers will still try to run the football!  Will we see a better front 7 stopping the rush?

2 - Panthers QB, Terry Bridgewater is completing 70% of the passes and is a threat to run the ball.  It would be really great to see 4-5 more sacks this week!

3 - Rodgers to Adams. This duo has really made everyone notice the efficiency & consistency of this passing threat!  Can this make other Packers receivers shine!  Tonyan at tight end is beginning to be noticed!  Lazard is healthy again.  Valdes-Scantling is making plays.  Newby, Tavon Austin needs to show his pick up a few weeks ago should be a smart one!

4 - Packer Running Game - Jones & Williams - over 150 yards.  December football NEEDS a running game!

5 - Special Teams.  Week to week, the Packer special teams have been an issue.  We have seen more consistent play, BUT, 1-2 big plays have hurt the Pack!  Special Teams Pride!  It is time for the Packers to become one the the NFL's top teams!

So, another game, and another NFL weekend that will have it's share of drama!

Packers BEAT the Panthers!

Packers Over Lions, 31-24 AND NFC North Champs!

 Packers fans, celebrate!

For the 7th time, in the last 10 years, the Packers are NFC North Champs!!

The Packers, with 3 games to go, are the top ranked team in the NFC.

Aaron Rodgers is still rolling.

Davante Adams is still catching TD passes.

Mason Crosby can still kick a 57 yard field goal!

And, the Packer defense does JUST enough to win!

So, celebrate! Enjoy the moment!

More to come for the rare Saturday game against the Panthers!

Packers 2020 

NFC North Champion!

The Final Quarter of the NFL Season - 4 More Games!

 The 2020 NFL Season!  As of today, the division leaders & teams in the hunt?

NFC North - Packers 9-3,  Vikings 6-6

NFC West - Rams 8-4, Seahawks 8-4,  Cardinals 6-6

NFC South - Saints 10-2, Bucs 7-5

NFC East - Giants 5-7, Washington - 5-7

AFC North - Steelers 11-1, Browns 9-3, Ravens 7-5

AFC West - Chiefs 11-1, Raiders 7-5

AFC South - Titans 8-4, Colts 8-4

AFC East - Bills 9-3, Dolphins 8-4, Patriots 6-6

Remember 7 teams make it from each conference, only one team, with the best record, will receive a bye on the first week of the playoffs!  So, a lot to play for in the last 4 games of the season!  COVID, injuries, and actual games will determine to playoff scenario!  So, keep the same focus, win the games ONE at a time!  This week?

Beat the Lions!

Packers Clip the Eagles Wings to Continue Race to the Playoffs!

 The better team won.  The better quarterback won.  The Packer stay focused!

If you follow this blog, you know what's coming.........Packer Drives - 10 of them.

1 - 3 & Out - Punt

2 - TD - Adams catch TD - Packers up 7-3

3 - TD - Tonyan TD catch - Packers up 14-3

4 - 3 & out - Punt

5 - TD - a 99 yard drive - 1st play - a BIG pass to Adams, then a nice finish - Packer up 20-3

6 - FG - Packers up 23-10

7 - 3 and out - PUNT

8 - 3 & out - PUNT

9 - TD - nice run by Aaron Jones - Packers up 30-16

10 - Kneel Down - Game Over

So, actually 5 scores in 9 drives for 30 points & NO turnovers

Issues on Special Teams?  Punt return for TD - cannot have this!

Rodgers & Adams continue to impress.  Running game finished well.  Defense had some BIG sacks on Eagle drives that came at just the right times!  Savage had nice interception at the end of the game!  

Next up - Detroit Lions!  Always a difficult game!

Packers at 9 wins & 3 losses - 3 games up in the NFC North - one game behind Saints for best record in the NFC.

GO PACK GO!

Packers vs Eagles, Another "Be Careful", And, "What to Watch?"

 The NFL Schedule is like navigating a WW2 Minefield!  You really never know what will happen on your next step!  The Eagles are an injured animal & VERY dangerous!

What to watch?

1 - Eagle running game vs Packer Defense.  Every week, Packers fans hold their breath!  Will the opposing team run the football down the throat of the Packer Defense?  Every Week!  This is NO different, last week, the Eagle top running back, Sanders, carried the ball 6 times!  I predict, Sanders will receive more of a workout!!!

2 - Eagle D-line vs Packers O-line.  This to me is the key to the outcome!  Protect AR, and give Jone & Williams the opportunity to rush for maybe 150 yards & 2 TD's?

3 - Physical Play. There are games where the Packers seem to lose the "toughness" factor?  The Eagles with punch you in the mouth!  Will the Packers punch back????

4 - Turnover battle!  Enough said!  The Packer D-backs need a couple interceptions against a struggling Eagle QB!

Packers vs Eagles!

Go Pack Go!

Packers Over Bears - Yessssssssssssssss!

 Well, got our wish!  Check my keys for a win?

1 - Offense - No turnovers (REMEMBER LAST WEEK?)

     Yes!  Packers 0 turnovers - Bears 3

2 - Defense - Hold Bears under 100 yards rushing (Watch the QB scrambles!)

     Almost, Bears, Montgomery had 103 yards, but 1 was for 57!

3 - Offense - Aaron Jones - 2 TD's

     Nope, 0 TD's for Jones, but Williams had 1.

4 - Defense - 4 sacks

     Sacks - 3 - Almost!

5 - Offense - 4 receivers with at least 5 receptions each

     Almost - 3 receivers - Adams - 6, Tonyan - 5, Lazard - 4

6 - Defense - cause 1 fumble & grab 1 interception

     Yes!!! 2 interceptions & 1 fumble recovery for TD!!!

7 - JUST WINNNNNNNN!

     YES!

And, I always like to look at Packer offensive drives:

1 - TD

2 - TD

3 - TD

4 - End of Half

5 - Punt (5 & out)

6 - TD

7 - TD

8 - Punt (5 & out)

9 - End of Game

So, really only 7 drives - 5 TD's and 2 Punts - I will take that!!

Next up, Eagles!

Packers vs Bears, Game #201

 Packers vs Bears, 20 minutes to game time!  What do Packers need to win?

1 - Offense - No turnovers (REMEMBER LAST WEEK?)

2 - Defense - Hold Bears under 100 yards rushing (Watch the QB scrambles!)

3 - Offense - Aaron Jones - 2 TD's

4 - Defense - 4 sacks

5 - Offense - 4 receivers with at least 5 receptions each

6 - Defense - cause 1 fumble & grab 1 interception

7 - JUST WINNNNNNNN!

Here we go!

The Final Push - 6 Games - What to Expect?

 OK, the 2020 season is quickly coming to an end - Thanksgiving to Christmas.  Will our Thanksgiving Holiday lead to a Playoff Present for Christmas???  He we go!!!

Chicago Bears

Philadelphia Eagles

Detroit Lions

Carolina Panthers

Tennessee Titans

Chicago Bears

Now at 7 wins & 3 losses, what do you see in 6 weeks??

Win - Win - Win - Win - Win - Win?  If they play like a improving team?  Out of the 6 games, let us be conservative, but realistic & if this team is REALLY ANY GOOD - say 4 wins & 2 losses?

That would be a season record of 11 wins & 5 losses. NFC North Winner - Playoff bound!  Would it be a stretch to have the best record in the NFC, if the Pack goes win one loss - 12 wins four losses?  Competition??

Saints (8-2) play - Broncos - Falcons - Eagles - Chiefs - Vikings - Panthers

Rams (7-3) play - 49ers - Cardinals - Patriots - Jets - Seahawks - Cardinals

Seahawks (7-3) play - Eagles - Giants - Jets - Washington - Rams - 49ers

Bucs (7-4) play - Chiefs - Bye - Vikings - Falcons - Lions - Falcons

Cardinals (6-4) play - Patriots - Rams - Giants - Eagles - 49ers - Rams

So, the schedule is what it is.  The Packers need to prove to the NFC that they are the best, that will begin with a win against the good old Bears!  That is what we need NOW!  One game at a time!

A Loss, A Lesson in Ball Security!

This analysis is VERY simple!

Packers Drive Chart

1 - Fumble

2 - TD

3 -Punt - (3 & out)

4 - Interception

5 - TD

6 - TD

7 - TD

8 - Punt (3 & out)

9 - Punt (3 & out)

10 - Fumble

11 - Downs

12 - FG

13 - Fumble

Wow! 

13 Possessions - 4 turnovers!!!!  5 scores!!! - 3 Punts (3 & outs) - 1 Downs = 13 Total

So, simple NFL Math????  

DO NOT TURN THE BALL OVER!!!!

 

I Call A 2020 Timeout - What is the State of the NFL??

Any normal year, it is always good to look at your sport and analyze, discuss & look at the health of the sport you spend so much time, money & energy on following.  The NFL has been around for over 100 years and is really a look at the world we live in & human development!  So, where are we?

State of the NFL 2020

1 - On thing positive about a pandemic(REALLY, there is positive in this?) is it brings feelings and emotions to the front of the line!  People are more up front and honest because of this STUPID virus!  The NFL, overall has handled it seemingly well to this point.  The players & owners & NFL hierarchy are trying to get through the season.  One thing the NFL has always done, since the beginning is survive!  The 1920's to 1940's saw many teams fail, but the NFL made it.  With testing, heavy fines for not following protocols, and constant focus, we made it to November of 2020.  The NFL is a survivor!

2 - Fans & Support?  This is a difficult one!  It seems the last 100 years has seen the NFL on a steady move upward in popularity & financial success.  As a "senior citizen" fan, I am not always happy with the players on the field celebrations, the way the game is being refereed, or all the $$$$$$$$$$, but, the "FAN" seems to be considered.  Although, and for good reason, most of the focus is on the younger generation.  This makes it somewhat uncomfortable for the over 60 age group!  My question, as any business, will the NEW generation for as dedicated to their journey following their teams?

3 - Players?  Oh baby, this could be an entire book.  Overall, I think MOST have their feet planted firmly on the ground.  But, the balance of power between ownership & players is critical, and best served at a 50-50 level.  To me, the NBA and basketball is in trouble here!  Players, decide where they will play and the same teams win every year.  The NFL still seems to have a balance.  Team competition, players share & owners share.  

4 - Injuries?  This has become an issue.  The NFL is protecting the quarterbacks, but, from week to week, the injuries still seem to be a concern.  My first issue is the NFL schedule.  Thursday night football is my problem.  Playing Sunday & then Thursday, to me, is a concern.  Also, it may be time for an additional bye week during the season??  Another suggestion, training, size of players?  Is bigger, really better?  And, Non-contact injuries?  Why?  Is the turf really safe?

5 - A "touchy" subject.  Racial issues????  I was a coach & educator for over 40 years.  I have seen the progress!  I have lived the progress!  Why is the progress we have made over the years not discussed more?!  We have come a long way, and I know the we need to keep working.  But, latino lives, asian lives, all cultures are important! Focus on the good, work on the bad!

6 - Prediction?  In life, things are either moving up or down, getting better or declining.  I will predict that people will begin to find other ways to spend their time & money.  This may be the peak of age NFL and other sports, other activities, will consume our lives?  Time will tell!

Until then, .......................

Go Pack Go!

Packers vs Colts, Another Test of Playoff Worthiness?

 If your team is a contender, they win BIG games!  Is this a BIG GAME?

1 - Colts have a VERY good defense & Packers have a VERY good offense.

2 - Colts have a veteran QB, and average offense & Packers have an average defense, trying to become a good defense.

3 - Colts have a winning record (6-3) & Packers (7-2) have a winning record.

4 - Colts are in first in the AFC South & Packers are in first in the NFC North

5 - Colts have lost to Jaguars, Browns & Ravens, Packers the Vikings & Bucs

So, are the Packers a playoff contender, time will tell!

Winning in The NFL, Never Complain About a Win!

 NFL Football - 16 Games - 17 Weeks - And, the Playoffs! A Win each week is Big!

The object of course is one number, the final score.  All the stats, the tendencies, the fantasy points, the number of beers you drink, come in second to the final score!  Of course, the fan cannot look at the "style points!"  And, losing to the Vikings & nosing out the Jaguars make the fan nervous!  So, let us look at the good, so far in 2020.

NFC North - 1st Place - Green Bay Packers

A young coach, Matt LaFleur that seems to be open, honest, hard working, and a winner.

Aaron Rodgers - (that is 1992 to 2020, Favre - Rodgers,  of quality QB play - That is 29 years!!!!!!!!!

Rodgers to Adams - one of the NFL BEST combo!

Jones - Williams - Ervin - a trio of running backs with talent & diverse talents!

WR's - Lazard & Valdes-Scantling, seem to be taking a step as the 2 & 3 receivers?

Offensive Line - versatile & fighting through injuries

A veteran & young tight end starting to find a niche?

Defense - signs of progress, JUST STAY Healthy - Alexander & King young and improving corners, Amos & Savage, safeties with experience & youth, Smith Brothers & Gary, providing leadership & big plays, Kirksey(stay healthy) and youth Martin, Summers, Burk, Barnes.  defensive line, led by Clark showing progress!

7 Games to go, what does the rest of the year look like??

Colts

Bears

Eagles

Lions

Panthers

Titans

Bears

First, secure the division, beat Bears twice & the Lions one more time!

Second, split the other four games - Colts, Eagles, Panthers & Titans!

That would be 12 wins & 4 losses (Would be nice to finish as #1 seed in the NFC!

Next up, Colts!  This game will show us a BUNCH!!!!

Packers vs 49ers, What Will This Year Look Like?

Election is over, at least the commercials.  COVID, yes this game will be challenged by the "Chinese Virus"!  Injuries, always part of todays NFL.  And, Thursday Night, which I think is stupid, and the cause of some of the injuries!  So, what will happen tonight???

1 - The 49ers, will try to run the football!

2 - The Packers will try to stop the run!

3 - The QB Battle - Rodgers vs Mullins (No Jimmy G, injured)

4 - Injuries - 49ers, No Jimmy G or Kittle & Packers, maybe no A. Jones & King

5 - Are the Packers a contender or pretender?

For the Packers to win?

1 - Rodgers to Adams - 3 TD passes & over 120 yards

2 - Packers D holds 49er run game under 150 yards

3 - Packers find a healthy, Non-COVID running back to hand off to!

4 - No Turnovers!

Final Point

If the Packers are to be a playoff team, 

a top tier NFL team, 

they NEED to win this game!

Time To Take A Break & Look Back?

 2020.  The 2020 Football Season.  Let us take a trip back in the time machine and set the date for last year?  The game? January 19, 2020 - 49er's 37 - Packers 20  Running Back - Mostert 220 yards -  4 TD's.

This year, last week, Vikings 28 - Packers 22  Running Back - Cook 163 yards - 3 TD's.

So, you are management.  What would you do?  Maybe BEEF UP that interior line??  Inside linebacker? OK, they tried a guy that had a good reputation, at inside linebacker, with injury issues - he is hurt!

Oh, and maybe a game breaker to add to RB, Jones & WR, Adams,  Naaaaaaa.

So here we are, almost half way through the season, and it looks like last year?

Thursday night, against the 49ers?  What will happen????????

Stay Tuned!

Packers 22 - Vikings 28

 Two Words!

Dalvin Cook!

30 carries - 163 yards - 3 TD's!

Enough said!

Packers vs Tampa Bay - The Eye Ball Test!

 If this was a boxing match, the Packers got in a few good punches in round 1.  The were bouncing around and feeling pretty good about themselves!  Up 10-0 after round 1!  They were bobbing and weaving and then, WHAM!  Then, Aaron Rodgers interception for a TD! A punch squarely landing on the side of the head, and the Packers stumble and gain some footing.  Uh Oh! Packers come back, and attack, opps, another blow to the head!  Another Rodgers interception, and Bucs have the ball on the Packer 2 - Bucs score, 14-10 Bucs!  

After that, it was 3 & outs for Packer Offense & Brady slowly delivers the knock ou punch - Gronk at Tight End, Jones at running back, and a defense that our hustled & hit the Packers!  The more PHYSICAL team, the Bucs - that is a concern!  28-10 at Half, it is over.

Second half, Bucs start with a long field goal. 31-10.  Packers offense moves, but Rodgers is beginning to get pounded, and Bakhtiari is out!  Get Rodgers out of there & limp home with your tail between your legs!  The Packers & Rodgers were not sharp & NOT PHYSICAL!  In football, that is called a loss!

Aaron running for his life!  By the way, remember, defensive tackle Suh from his Detroit days?  He is a Duc and still a cheap shot artist!  Someone on thePack need to hammer that guy!

Next up?

Houston Texans!

Packers Lose First Game in 2020

 Yes, reality!  I missed the game & will be watching the game later this week.  So, I just started analyzing the Packers Drives:

1 - FG

2 - TD

End of first, Packers 10 - Bucs 0!  Nice start!

3 - Interception for Bucs TD!

4 - Interception, returned to 2 yd line - Bucs TD!

5 - Punt

6 - Punt

7 - End of half 

Bucs 28 - Packers 10!  Holy Crap!

8 - Punt

9 - Punt

10 - Punt

End of third quarter, did the Packer offense take an early plane home to Green Bay!

11 - Punt

12 - Punt

Game Over, Packers 38 - Bucs 10!

More thoughts to come!

What Do We Expect To See In The Packers vs Bucs?

 Coming off a bye week in the NFL is usually a good thing.  Rest, for any football player gives the body a chance to heal & a little bounce should come back to the athlete!  Well, a trip to Tampa Bay will need a bounce.  Facing Tom Brady always brings a challenge!  And, just to jog your memory about Tommy!

Tom Brady, age 43

Tom Brady - Drafted in 2000, Round 6, the 199th overall pick

6 Time Super Bowl Champ!

Oh, and is married to Brazilian model Gisele Bundchen

Oh, and Tom Brady net worth $180 million!  Oh Oh, Gisele's net worth $400 million

By the way, Aaron Rodgers net worth, $70 million & no Super Model wife! So, ADVANTAGE TOM!

Now, back to football!

QB - Aaron is playing well, Tom is starting to play better with his new team.

 - Slight advantage - Packers

Offense - 

Running Back -  Packers - Jones & Bucs - Jones - Advantage our Jones!

Wide Receiver - Packers - Adams & Bucs - Evans - Healthy Adams? - Advantage Packers

Tight End - Packers - Tonyan & Bucs - Gronokowski - Toss Up, Gronk is still rusty!

Offensive Line - Packers are beginning to come together, Bucs still looking a Gisele pics? - Packers!

So, I give the edge to the Packers on offense.

Defense, Clark is back this week.  Pass rush has been pretty good without him.  Smith brothers are playing their typical solid style, Z Smith is leading the stat chart.  Kevin King, may not play, but Pack is developing some defensive back depth.  The inside linebackers are filling in for the injured starter Kingsley, and doing a fair job.  But, I still DO NOT trust our Packer D.  Advantage - Bucs

I see another high scoring game, with any Packer turnovers the score...........

Packers 31 - Bucs 27

PackerBuddies - For Over 20 Years Friends Migrate to Green Bay!

Friendship!  Packer Football!  Green Bay!  Lambeau Field!  Flights to Chicago & Milwaukee!  And, coolest & greatest experience, the people we meet!!!!!

Yes, for over twenty years, a group from Pennsylvania & one from New Jersey have been making their annual pilgrimage to Lambeau Field!  The "Final Four" Jim, Bill, Terry & Phil have been a constant!  We have invited friends & family!  We have taken side trips & adventures!  We have seen history made!  And, we have LAUGHED & ENJOYED SO MUCH!!!  This post is dedicated to my "Packer Buddies!"

My first trip, November 29, 1998!  Packers 24 Eagles 16.  A little background, believe it or not, from about 1965 to 1988 I was a Dallas Cowboy fan!  (Yes, The Ice Bowl I weeped for the Cowboys!)  And then, 1988 - Jerry Jones buys Cowboys, and hires Jimmy Johnson!  I was devastated!  I was broken hearted!  Rodger Staubach, Bob Lilly, Walt Garrison, Ed "Too Tall" Jones, Bobby Hayes..........  I was crushed, I dumped MY TEAM!  I would NEVER love another NFL TEAM!  And, then a bunch of guys I coached with, taught school with invited me to Green Bay!!!  And, I fell in love!  Lambeau, Green and Gold, Brett Favre, Ahman Green, Antonio Freeman, Leroy Butler, and ALL that Packer History - Vince Lombardi, Curly Lambeau, Don Hutson, Paul Horning, Jimmy Taylor, ..........

Yes, I was becoming a Green Bay Packer Fan!  November 29, 1998!!!

And, after 22 years, I still say Go Pack Go!!

My Games:

Many Memories, and incredible people! A few Memories!

My first game was a blur, flying Baltimore to Chicago, driving up to Green Bay, buying a ticket on the street!  And, then, seeing Lambeau Field for the first time! (AND, the feeling of the famous ICE BOWL!) Wow! It was special, it was exciting, it was different (especially from Eagle games, remember, I am from Pennsylvania!) It was a blur!

Next 5 years, I made two more games.  Still, trying to find a team, the Packer team was luring me in, Brett Favre, Mike Holmgren, my Packer Buddies.  Something was happening.

The next 5 years, my education & coaching career was winding down, from 2005 to 2009, 6 games!  And, 2 away games - Dolphins & Bucs AND, a little old playoff game - FAVRE's last game as a Packer, on an incredibly cold night(wind chill below zero!), a SAD night, a miserable loss to the Giants!!!!!  That was it, I had a FAVORITE NFL team!  The Green Bay Packers were my TEAM!  GO PACK GO!

And then, 2010, no games.  How about THIS excuse, Open-Heart Surgery!  Quintuple ByPass!  Oh Baby!  This is an entire other story, on a different blog!!!

And, then, a great run!  2011 to 2019! And of course, 2020 - COVID!!!

Some memories!

Segway Tours of Green Bay!

Meeting an older couple that was at the Ice Bowl Game!!!

A tour of a tugboat in Sturgeon Bay!

Great meals at The Lighthouse, The Prime Quarter, The Hobo, Bay Family Restaurant, .......

More away games, Giants, Chiefs, Colts, Bengals, Ravens, Steelers, Redskins

Trip to Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio and Packers in Hall of Fame game that was canceled!!!!

September 9, 2018 - Packers 100th Season!

Visiting the Packer Hall of Fame!

A trip or two on the Fox River Cruise!

Tubing!!!!

"Turtles" at Culvers!

Yes, 2020, the Packer Buddies are missing Green Bay!  But, all the trips were VERY special! What will 2021 look like?  Hopefully, more trips to Green Bay!

And, my Packer Buddies!  More Packer trips in 2021!!!!

Terry, Jim, Bill, & Phil

Green Bay Packer First Quarter of the 2020 Season & What Comes Next?

 The 2020 season.  Nice Start!  The 2020 Year!  SUCKS!

Well, got that off my chest!  The season has started well!  Rodgers seems happy & locked in!  LaFleur seems to be more comfortable & his offense seems to be creative & fresh!  And, Rodgers has bought in? Our playmakers seem to be thriving - Aaron Jones, Davante Adams, & Rodgers!  New playmakers are emerging, Lazard, Tonyan, Valdes-Scantling..  An, the O-line appears to be solid.

Defense?  We have playmakers, Z & P Smith, Alexander, Clark, Savage...... And, players are stepping up, Summers, Sullivan, Montravious Adams, and more.  

Injuries are still a key, and lately, COVID breakouts!  Stay smart Packer players!

Next 4 Games?

Sunday, October 18 - 4:25 pm - Packers At the Bucs

Sunday, October 25 - 1:00 pm - Packers At the Texans

Sunday, November 1 - 1:00 pm - Vikings at Packers

Thursday, November 5 - 8:20 pm - Packers at 49ers

A few short comments:

1 - The Bucs & Tom Brady!

2 - The Texans - "A wounded animal is dangerous!"

3 - The Vikings - always a danger

4 - The 49ers - This game, of ALL games will tell us if the Packers are for real!"

Enjoy the BYE week! And,..........................................

GO PACK GO!

Packers Head Into Bye Week, Undefeated and Resting!

 OK, NFL fans, usually, an early bye week is bad!  In the Year of COVID, 2020, no old norms are in play! A early bye week, injuries mounting up, this is a GREAT bye week!  Maybe, the NFL should build in two BYE weeks?  First, the Atlanta game!

In the NFL, a win each week is always appreciated!  A win, missing your best two receivers, missing your top defensive lineman, missing your best inside linebacker, other nagging injuries.....  Now, Atlanta was hurting also.  But a win!

Good news:  1 - Rodgers is still rolling!  2 - A Tight End - Tonyan, with 3 TD's!  3 - Holding the Falcons wide receiver, future Hall of Famers in check!  4 - Players are stepping up for injured team mates!

My Packer Drive Chart

1 - TD

2 - Downs - Drove to the 1 yard line!

3 - TD

4 - TD

5 - Punt

6 - TD

7 - FG

8 - Punt

9 - End of Game

That is very efficient!  The offense just seems different!  The eye ball team?  What do you see?  I see a lot of deception!  Motions, crossing patterns, throwing over the middle, running backs receiving, bootleg by QB, and the biggest - Rodgers in not running for his life!  The plays seem to be in rhythm, drop back, plant and chuck it!  (Also, Rodgers is stretching the field - DEEP ball keeps the opposing defense honest!

Defense?  Still a work in progress, the good? Play makers, causing fumbles, interceptions.  The defensive backs, seem to be working well together!  The linebackers, especially the subs, are making plays.  D-line is starting to look more stout!  Still, I see too many missed tackles - need to clean that up!

All, in all - undefeated!  Headed into bye week, time to chill, relax, and enjoy the fall weather!!!

Go Pack Go!

Wow! It Been 17 Days!

 I warned you!  Difficult getting into this season!  But, I'mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm BACK!

So, 3-0, and headed to Monday Night Football against the Falcons!  First. let's recap the last two games!

Packers 42 - Lions 21

Rodgers 18 for 30 - 240 yards & 2 TD's with NO interceptions

Jones 18 carries 168 yards for 2 TD's

8 receivers, with 18 catches - spreading the ball around!

Defense 4 sacks - 1 interception for a TD

Last year we had two CLOSE wins against Detroit, nice to have one with 3 TD win!

Packers 37 - Saints 30

First, a win in the Super Dome

Second, a win over the Saints!

Rodgers over Brees!

Rodgers 21 for 32 - 283 yards & 3 TD's and NO interceptions

Lazard 6 receptions for 146 yards and 1 TD

Defense - 2 sacks - one BIG fumble recovery

A win over a potential Super Bowl team is a great win!

So, would YOU take a 3 & 0 start!  

YOU BET I WOULD!!

No, the Falcons........ what should we worry about?

1 - Key injuries!  After, a career game for Lazard, core muscle surgery - out for 4-8 weeks!  Big defensive pick up - Christian Kirksey, inside linebacker, out with shoulder injury?  Questionable, Davante Adams, hamstring.  Defensive lineman, Clark, groin, questionable.  Other smaller injuries? Cornerback-Alexander,  Tight End-Degurara, Outside Linebacker-Gary, Tight End-Lewis, Outside Linebacker-Z. Smith.  So......

2 - Falcons and Julio Jones at wide receiver?  He ALWAYS has big games against Packers!!

3 - Who plays wide receiver, without Adams & Lazard?  Valde-Scantling, Shepherd, Taylor?

4 - Who starts at inside linebacker? Summers, Barnes, Burks

What will we see?

How creative on offense will LaFleur be with wide receivers?  Can defense have a SHUT DOWN game?

Good news, the Early BYE WEEK is usually NOT good.  This year, it IS GOOD.  Heal up Adams, Lazard, Kirksey, Clark  & others!

Go Pack Go!

Packer Win Opener! Always Good to Beat Vikings!

 Well, still trying get into this NFL season! 

- Pandemic - Sick of COVID

- Not attending a Packer Game (Been doing this since 1998 will my Packer Buddies!)

- Tired of the Politics (NO COMMENT)

I will give it a shot - Packers 43 - Vikings 34!

What made me smile?

1 - Rodgers

2 - Adams

3 - Alexander

Aaron Rodgers looked like the old Aaron Rodgers - before Danica, before Before Olivia!  What did I notice about Aaron?

1 - Rodgers used the middle of the field

2 - Rodgers threw deep

3 - Rodgers & Adams may be approaching Rodgers & Nelson

So, we need to see more, BUT, I like what Aaron Rodgers was doing game day!

Davante Adams is definitely an NFL top 5 receiver!  Nice catches, crossing patterns, throws were delivered before the the cut, and as mentioned earlier, Rodgers & Adams may be on that same page!

Jaire Alexander - how about a safety & interception to change the games momentum?  Most great football teams have that "lock down" corner! Not quite there (Theilen, Vikings top receiver had a good game), but Alexander is a play maker!

Concerns?

1 - Injuries.  The NFL is a game of attrition!  We lost Lane Taylor at guard.  We cannot lose Clark at defensive tackle!  So far, just a groin, need to get hime healthy!  NEED TO STAY HEALTHY!

2 - Defense!  This is the year for Pettine to prove himself!

3 - Inside Linebacker!

4 - Offensive Right Tackle

So, while I try to get into the season, the Packers will try to BEAT the Lions!

GO PACK GO!

Packer Roster Cuts - Getting to 53!

Packers 53

QB(3) - Aaron Rodgers, Tim Boyle, Jordan Love 

RB(4) - Aaron Jones, Jamaal Williams, AJ Dillon, Tyler Ervin

WR(5) - Davante Adams, Allen Lazard, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, 

    Equanimeous St. Brown, Malik Taylor

TE(4) - Mercedes Lewis, Robert Tonyan, Jace Sternberger, Josiah Deguara

OL(9) - David Bakhtiari, Corey Linsley, Lane Taylor, Billy Turner, Elgton Jenkins,

    Rick Wagner, Lucas Patrick, Yosh Nijman, Jon Runyan

25 Offensive Players

DL(5) - Kenny Clark, Dean Lowry, Kingsley Keke, Tyler Lancaster, Montravious Adams

ILB(4) - Christian Kirkey, Kamal Martin, Oren Burks, Ty Summers

OLB(5) - Za'Darius Smith, Preston Smith, Rashan Gary, Randy Ramsey, Jonathan Garvin

CB(6) - jailer Alexander, Kevin King, Chandon Sullivan, Josh Jackson, Ka'Dar Hollman,

    Kabian Ento

S(5) - Adrian Amos, Darnell Savage, Reven Greene, Will Redmund, Vernon Scott

25 Defensive Players

K(1) - Mason Crosby, P(1) - JK Scott, LS(1) - Hunter Bradley

3 Special Team Players

Here is the initial team, with changes coming!!  

8 days till First Game!!!!!

Ten Days To Go - Packers vs Vikings!!

The NFL Season for the Packers is 10 days away - does it seem strange?

OF COURSE!

Are the Packers ready? Are the Vikings ready? Is the NFL ready?

ONLY TIME WILL TELL!

Are the fans ready?  Will fans be at games?

ONLY TIME WILL TELL!

Back to Packer's  - Will Packer's  Offense be better this year?   Will Adams have help at the wide receiver position?  What Tight Ends will step up?  Will the running game be more dangerous will Dillon?  Will the offensive line be able to replace Bulaga at right tackle?  Will Aaron Rodgers have an MVP season????

Packer Defense?  Will the defense be be better against the run?  Will the Packer D-backs be one of the better groups in the league?  Will the Smith Brothers be better than last season? Will Rashan Gary take a BIG step in year TWO?  Can we beat the 49ers????

Coaches How will Matt LaFleur do in year two?  Can our Defensive Coordinator finally create a consistent defense??

Will our General Managers draft classes begin to take charge?

Will the Green Bay Packers be back in the Super Bowl?????

Last Week Before Roster Cuts, Packers Need To Build A Winner!

 Just like all of 2020, the NFL season and roster building is different.  So, instead of crying & whining, let's deal with it!  And, what are the new rules in place???

1 - 53 man roster, same as other years.

2 - Practice Squad for this season with go from 10 to 16 players.

Due date:

Roster -  53 by Saturday, September 5 at 4pm

Practice Squad - by September 6, 1 pm, start building 16 man practice squad

Packers first game , Sunday, September 13th!

As of now, Packers and other NFL teams have 80 men on the roster, therefore, 69 of the 80 could be back on the roster.  But, when players are cut, other teams may jump on the cuts, just like the Packers may do, so, here is my best bet on the 53 man roster:

Special Teams (3) - Kicker - Mason Crosby, Punter - JK Scott, & Long Snapper- Hunter Bradley

That was easy, now:

Offense (27)

Quarterbacks(3) - Aaron Rodgers, Tim Boyle & Jordan Love

Running Backs(4) - AJ Dillon, Tyler Ervin, Aaron Jones, & Jamaal Williams

Tight Ends(4) - Josiah DeGuara, Mercedes Lewis, Jace Sternberger, Robert Tonyan

Wide Receivers(5) - Davante Adams, Jake Kumerow, Allan Lazard, E. St. Brown, M. Valdes-Scantling

Tackles(2) - David Bakhtiari, Rick Wagner

Guards(4) - Elgton Jenkins, Lucas Patrick, Jon Runyan, Lane Taylor

Center(2) - Jake Hanson, Corey Linsley

Guard/Tackle(2) - Alex Light, Billy Turner

Defense(23)

Defensive Line(5) - Martravious Adams, Kenny Clark, Keke Kingsley, Tyler Lancaster, Dean Lowry

Inside Linebacker(4) - Oren Burks, Christian Kirksley, Kamaal Martin, Tyler Summers

Outside Linebacker(4) - Jonathan Garvin, Rashon Gary, Preston Smith, Za'Darius Smith

Cornerback(5) - Jaire Alexander, Ka'Dar Hollman, Josh Jackson, Kevin King, Chandon Sullivan

Safety(5) - Adrain Amos, Raven Greene, Will Redmund, Darnell Savage, Vernon Scott

That is 53 names, about 5-7 were difficult, they are highlighted by yellow.

A Little Over 20 Days Till Game #1 & Players Need to Impress Quickly!!!

 Holy Cow!  September 13th is coming fast & roster moves in 2020 are.......... difficult!

My sure things for the 53??

QB(3) - Aaron Rodgers, Tim Boyle, & Jordan Love

RB(4) - Aaron Jones, Jamaal Williams, Tyler Irvin & AJ Dillon

WR(4) - Davante Adams, Allan Lazard, M. Valdes Scantling, E. St. Brown

OL(5) - David Bakhtiari, Corey Linsley, Elgton Jenkins, Billy Turner, Lane Taylor

TE(4) - Mercedes Lewis, Robert Tonyan, Jace Sternberger, Josiah Deguara

That is 20 on offense.

DL(5) - Kenny Clark, Dean Lowry, Tyler Lancaster, Montravious Adams, Keke Kingsley

LB(6) - Za'Darius Smith, Preston Smith, Christian Kirksey, Ty Summers, Kamaal Martin, Rahan Gary

CB(4) - Jaire Alexander, Kevin King, Josh Jackson, Chandon Sullivan

S(4) - Adrian Amos, Darnell Savage, Raven Greene, Will Redmund

That is 19 on defense.

Punter - JK Scott, Long Snapper, Hunter Bradley & Kicker - Mason Crosby

That is 3 on special teams.

For a total of 42 players - let the battles continue for the 53 man roster!!!

Changes for the 2020 season?  

** Practice Squad goes from 10 to 12 players.

** Game day players go from 46 to 48 for game day from the 53 man roster.

45 Days Till First Game, Where are We Now?

15 days since my last post. what does the NFL season look like?

- Players are beginning to opt out of the 2020 season (Packers new wide receiver Funchess is out)

- No preseason games

- COVID testing - testin - testing

- Aaron Rodgers is giving interviews about his future

- Attendance at Packer games will be restricted

- The NFL season is not a sure thing!

And, the drama, COVID, social justice, the National Anthem, Rodgers & Love, Rodgers with Love (no more Danica!) This season will be one for the books, only question is what category?

- A Love Story (Rodgers new babe or Love the QB)

- A Fiction (Will the season be played, or should we just make something up)

- History (Another Super Bowl for The Pack)

- A Comedy (La Fleur beats McCarthy in the NFC Championship Game)

Somehow this season seems very irrelevant compared to all the DRAMA in 2020.  Will a NFL season be enough to makes us forget the drama around us just for 3-4 hours???  Time will tell!

60 Days Till First Game, What Has Changed?

Things are moving along, and not all good, but, time keeps bringing the Packers first game closer!

Some fall sports programs in college are being canceled.  High Schools are still trying to figure out what the year will look like? MLB season is set to begin the season without fans.  Golfers are playing each week without crowd.

In real life, some states are spiking, a others are being more cautious.  But, everyday is closer to a vaccine & back to what we need - FREEDOM!!!!

So, no fans for Packer practice & preseason games.  The regular season looks like a limited amount of fans in the stands.  What will happen with the first positive COVID case during the season?

OK, time to look at the team and hope football is the topic!

Predictions For The 2020 NFL Season?

First game September 13, that is 75 days from July 1!

75 DAYS!

What do I see?

With a surge is some states - NO FANS?

     The NFL moves all around the country!  Packers Fans move ALL around the country!  I cannot see 80,000 fans, sitting side-by-side, steaming into a mask!!!!!!  So, I see NO fans!

     NFL players & COVID?  When, and it will happen, a player test positive for COVID........ oh baby, what happens.......
- fellow team members
- opposing team members
- family members
- trainers, equipment managers, .........

My suggestion?  NFL Season after vaccine, no sooner.

It Has Been Awhile...........

Right, this Packer Fan has been in mental limbo..........

First, the Packer Draft..........................WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY?

Then, COVID, ....................really!  A Global Pandemic?  Thanks China!

     Wearing masks, social distancing, stock market, 401K's, Quarantine, NO NO SPORTS!

Thanks China!!!!!!

Then, one stupid cop!

I must admit, my enthusiasm for the NFL Season is at an all time LOW!

Will the Packer Buddies make a trip to Lambeau??????

More to come........

Packers 2020 #1 Draft Pic - Jordan Love

Jordan Love - Quarterback - Utah State - 6'4" - 224 lbs

As you listen to all the talking heads, the spin, the numbers, the teams that played for the teams they played against, the interviews, ................. what will happen in the NFL Career?  There is NEVER an easy answer!

A few examples, list in draft order during the draft

2020 - Joe Burrow - Tua Tagovailoa - Justin Herbert - Jordan Love - Jalen Hurts
2019 - Kyle Murray - Daniel Jones - Dwayne Haskins - Drew Lock - Will Grier
2018 - Baker Mayfield - Sam Darnold - Josh Allen - Josh Rosen - Lamar Jackson
2017 - Mitchell Trubisky - Patrick Mahomes - Deshaun Watson - DeShone Kizer - Davis Web
2016 - Jared Groff - Carson Wentz - Paxton Lynch - Christan Hackenberg - Jacoby Bisset
2015 - James Winston - Marcus Mariota - Garrett Grayson - Sean Mannion - Bryce Mannion
2014 - Blake Bortles - Johnny Manziel - Teddy Bridgewater - Derek Carr - Jimmy Garoppolo
2013 - EJ Manuel - Geno Smith - Mike Glennon - Matt Barkley - Ryan Nassib
2012 - Andrew Luck - Robert Griffin - Ryan Tannehill - Brandon Weeden - Brock Osweiler
2011 - Cam Newton - Jake Locker - Blaine Gabbert - Christan Ponder - Andy Dalton
2010 - Sam Bradford - Tim Tebow - Jimmy Clausen - Colt McCoy - Mike Kafka
2009 - Matt Stafford - Mark Sanchez - Josh Freeman - Pat White - Stephen McGee
2008 - Matt Ryan - Joe Flacco - Brian Brohm - Chad Henne - Kevin O'Connell
2007 - JaMarcus Russel - Brady Quinn - Kevin Kolb - John Beck - Drew Stanton
2006 - Vince Young - Matt Leonard - Jay Cutler - Kellen Clemens - Tavaris Jackson
2005 - Alex Smith - Aaron Rodgers - Jason Campbell - Charlie Frye - Andrew Walter
2004 - Eli Manning - Philip Rivers - Ben Rothlisberger - JP Losman - Matt Shaub
2003 - Carson Palmer - Bryon Leftwich - Kyle Boller - Rex Grossman - Dave Ragone
2002 - David Carr - Joey Harrington - Patrick Ramsey - Josh McCown - David Garrard
2001 - Michael Vick - Drew Brees - Quincy Carter - Marques Tuisosopo - Chris Weinke
2000 - Chad Pennington - Giovanni Carmazzi - Chris Redman - Tee Martin - Marc Bulger
and in 2000 the 7th QB taken was Tom Brady!!!!!!!!

What does that tell you about drafting a QB?  In case you are NOT a numbers person, here are my personal stats on this list:

Out of 100 players of the list (just the first 5 Qb's), and not counting 2020 players

1 - 20 players names DO NOT even ring a bell -NO memory of their career??
2 - 40 players on the list have started a lot of NFL games
3 - 40 have been backups & started a few games

Now, out of the 100 QB's - about 10 have had what I would call great careers?
Hall of Famers???  Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, Ben Rothlisberger, Eli Manning???

So, drafting a QB is a challenge?  Like many, at age 36, Rodgers is in the 4th quarter!  Would I have taken Jordan Love in the 1st round.

Now, to give Jordan Love, some LOVE!  He is an athlete, he has the size, he is able to throw on the run & improvise!  Now, this BIGGEST plus for Jordan Love?  After a year being Aaron, could he be an improvement in the backup roll?  After the LAST 4-5 years, when Aaron was injured - DISASTER!  So, I HOPE in the NEXT 3-4 years he will backup Aaron & we DO NOT need him!

The Dust Has Cleared, Now, Let's Look at The NFL Draft of 2020

First the 2020 NFL Draft?  They did it!  In fact, it was NOT BAD!  It was different, but, anytime you use technology, and it is some new!  That is scary!  You hold your breath!  You say a lot of prayers!  And, you DO NOT sleep well!  Remember the year 2000!  New Years Eve, Dec 31, 1999!  The world could end.  Computers would stop working!  Traffic lights, the power grid, banking systems, hospitals, government, everything would stop!  NO IT DID NOT!  Remember, when Johnny Carson left the Tonight Show, we still have a Tonight Show (BUT, I still miss Johnny!)

And, the Packers 2020 Draft?  I KNOW, we did not draft a wide receiver!

My first comment, "(@&(^&%#&(@#)*@)&%#&%*@&)*@)"

But, it is what it is, he is what we have:

Now, today I will just give my first reaction, 

and in upcoming blog posts, more detail.

Round 1 - Jordan Love - Quarterback - Utah State - 6'4" - 224 lbs

First, the shock!  A QB?  WHAT?  This is supposed to be a deep NFL draft in wide receivers.  There were 6 receivers taken before our pick and 7 taken before our round 2 pick.  And, did you see our last game with the 49ers?  They, KIND OF ran all over us!  In fact, didn't Garapolo throw only 8 passes and they kicked our butt!  There were 2 defensive tackles & 2 linebackers taken before our first pick & 2 defensive tackles & 2 linebackers taken before our second pick.  

I'm finished, now Jordan Love.  Kind of feel sorry for the guy.  First, the "EYEBALL" test!  Nice size!  Very athletic!  First interview, well spoken & humble!  Like the kid!  My vision:

1 - Boy do we need a GOOD back up!  Last couple years, Aaron goes done, we are cooked, a sub 500 team that is very bad to watch!  Now, it will not happen this year, but, for his first contract, 4-5 years, do we have a QUALITY BACK UP!  I HOPE SO!!!!!  We really need one!

2 - Will Aaron play after 4-5 more years.  You need a crystal ball!  He will be 40-41.  He is a thinker, and "out-of-the-box" kind of guy!  He may want to climb Mt Everest, have kids, get married, run for president, teach yoga in Green Bay(I heard we need a good yoga place!)  If so, would Jordan Love be THE MAN!  We will eventually need one!

Round 2 - AJ Dillon - Running Back - Boston College - 6'0" - 247 lbs

First impression, well spoken.  Great blood, grand daddy was  a running back at Notre Dame & the first African-American Captain!  And, the little tape I've seen a beast of a runner. (A little like Eddie Lacy, before he found the salad bar at the Golden Corral!)

Round 3 - Josiah Deguara - Tight End - Cincinnati - 6'2" - 242 lbs

Boy, do WE need a tight end!  Jimmy Graham flopped, Jared Cook was a great pick up and we let him get away!  We have not had a quality tight end in awhile!  A Round 3 pick, some had him going round 5 or 6?  Are we that smart?  Time will tell!

Round 4 - NO PICK - we traded it to move up for Jordan Love - 

REALLY (Sorry, I lost it again)

Round 5 - Kamal Martin - Linebacker - Minnesota - 6'3" - 240 lbs

Reading his initial bio material, did not light up the Big Ten at Minnesota, he may be an OK special team player this year, but at this point does not seem ready or even close to push for a starting job in a VERY weak Packer inside linebacker group!

Round 6A - Jon Runyan, Jr - Offensive Guard - Michigan - 6'4" - 306 lbs

First, love the name!  Great Blood Line!  His dad was a beast of an offensive tackle in the NFL!  He Dad was bigger, a coming out of college better!  But, as a round 6 pick, not bad.  The young man should know what it takes to be a pro!  May have a surprise here, but will also be a guard.

Round 6B - Jake Hanson - Ceneter - Oregon - 6'4" - 303 lbs 

First, this is NOT Jake from State Farm (I asked Aaron)  Again, not a upper round pick, but started for 4 years in the Pac 12 & as a center, you need to have you act together, calling defensive lines & handling the pigskin!  You always need a backup center and our gut Corey Linsley is free agent next year!

Round 6C - Simon Stepaniak -  Offensive Guard - Indiana - 6'4" - 313 lbs

Another offensive lineman in the sixth round??? (Someone, must have thought you drafted offensive line in round 6 only - OPPS!)  Again, late round, so talent is questionable, but he benched 225 lbs - 37 times at the combine!  And, would is, he is a little nasty - WE NEED SOME NASTY!

Round 7A - Vernon Scott - Safety - Texas Christian - 6'2 - 206 lbs

First round 7 - he needs to make the team on special teams first!  We have some depth on the team know, I will be VERY surprised if he makes the team - maybe practice squad?

Round 7B - Jonathan Garvin - Edge - Miami, FL - 6'4" - 263 lbs

Another special team guy!  We do NEED depth at the outside linebacker position, so he will have that opportunity!  Word is he has some talent, but needs more consistency play (Otherwise, he needs a fire lit under his butt!)  Jonathan, $$$$$$$$$$$  if you hustle baby!!!

There it is!  My first quick look!  More to come!!!

NFL Draft Less Than A Week Away! Time To Get Serious!

OK Packers Fans, Time To Get SERIOUS!  WE NEED TO DRAFT SMART!

It is time the Packers draft a few PRO BOWL caliber players!  A lot is dumb luck, bet we are due!

If you have been following this blog, you probably know what I want!

FIRST!

A play maker!  This could be a wide receiver, a tight end, or a running back!
Aaron Rodgers NEEDS HELP!!!

A Wide Receiver, speed and open field game breaker!  We have ENOUGH TALL GUYS!

Or, Tight End - remember the Super Bowl - Kelce(Cheifs) & Kittle(49ers) - one of those guys!
Verdict is out on Jace Sternberger, he may be a player?  And, Graham is gone!

Or, Running Back - a Christian McCafferey type - running back & wide receiver!  We have one that
may be that guy - Aaron Jones, BUT two would be more fun!

SECOND!

Defense, again a play maker!

Defensive Line - A BEAST!  Remember the 49ers running & running & running & running!!

An Inside Linebacker - a BEAST with speed!  A HEAT SEEKING MISSLE!  Speed to cover tight ends.  A player that will have opposing ball carriers looking for him, because he HURTS!!!!

Remember we draft at #30, so, some quality will be gone, BUT plenty left!

Ideas to check out??  Will discuss next time - have a look!

1. Joe Burrow, QB1, LSU
2. Chase Young, EDGE1, Ohio St.
3. Tua Tagovailoa, QB2, Alabama
4. Jeffrey Okudah, CB1, Ohio State
5. Tristan Wirfs, OT1, Iowa
6. CeeDee Lamb, WR1, Oklahoma
7. Isaiah Simmons, LB1, Clemson
8. Jerry Jeudy, WR2, Alabama
9. Justin Herbert, QB3, Oregon
10. Javon Kinlaw, DL1, South Carolina
11. K'Lavon Chaisson, EDGE2, LSU
12. Andrew Thomas, OT2, Georgia
13. Tee Higgins, WR3, Clemson
14. Henry Ruggs III, WR4, Alabama
15. Jedrick Wills, OT3, Alabama
16. Curtis Weaver, EDGE3, Boise State
17. Josh Jones, OT4, Houston
18. Mekhi Becton, OT5, Louisville
19. Xavier McKinney, S1, Alabama
20. Derrick Brown, DL2, Auburn
21. Jalen Reagor, WR5, TCU
22. Kristian Fulton, CB2, LSU
23. Jordan Love, QB4, Utah State
24. Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE4, Penn State
25. Jeremy Chinn, S2, Southern Illinois
26. A.J. Epenesa, EDGE5, Iowa
27. Neville Gallimore, DL3, Oklahoma
28. Bryan Edwards, WR6, South Carolina
29. Kyle Dugger, S3, Lenoir-Rhyne
30. C.J. Henderson, CB3, Florida
31. Zack Baun, EDGE6, Wisconsin
32. Grant Delpit, S4, LSU
33. Noah Igbinoghene, CB4, Auburn
34. Antoine Winfield Jr., S5, Minnesota
35. Terrell Burgess, S6, Utah
36. Jonathan Taylor, RB1, Wisconsin
37. K'Von Wallace, S6, Clemson
38. Laviska Shenault, WR7, Colorado
39. Josh Uche, EDGE7, Michigan
40. Jonathan Greenard, EDGE8, Florida
41. Denzel Mims, WR8, Baylor
42. Tyler Johnson, WR9, Minnesota
43. Cam Akers, RB2, Florida State
44. Ross Blacklock, DL4, TCU
45. Ashtyn Davis, S7, California
46. Julian Blackmon, S8, Utah
47. Isaiah Hodgins, WR10, Oregon State
48. Netane Muti, iOL1, Fresno State
49. Jeff Gladney, CB5, TCU
50. A.J. Terrell, CB6, Clemson
51. Jaylon Johnson, CB7, Utah
52. Gabriel Davis, WR11, UCF
53. Troy Dye, LB2, Oregon
54. Julian Okwara, EDGE9, Notre Dame
55. Jacob Eason, QB5, Washington
56. Trevon Diggs, CB8, Alabama
57. Jordan Elliott, DL5, Missouri
58. Willie Gay Jr., LB3, Miss State
59. Ezra Cleveland, OT6, Boise State
60. Jonah Jackson, iOL2, Ohio State
61. Patrick Queen, LB4, LSU
62. K.J. Hamler, WR12, Penn State
63. Brandon Aiyuk, WR13, Arizona State
64. Justin Jefferson, WR14, LSU
65. Matt Peart, OT7, UConn
66. Damon Arnette, CB9, Ohio State
67. Michael Ojemudia, CB10, Iowa
68. Isaiah Wilson, OT8, UGA
69. Chase Claypool, WR15, Notre Dame
70. John Hightower, WR16, Boise State
71. Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB5, Appalachian State
72. Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR17, Liberty
73. Matt Hennessy, iOL3, Temple
74. Ben Bartch, OT9, St. John's (MN)
75. Bryce Hall, CB11, Virginia
76. Michael Pittman Jr., WR18, USC
77. Anthony McFarland Jr., RB3, Maryland
78. Marlon Davidson, DL6, Auburn
79. Josiah Scott, CB12, Michigan State
80. Joe Reed, WR19, Virginia
81. Amik Robertson, CB13, La Tech
82. Cesar Ruiz, iOL4, Michigan
83. Damien Lewis, iOL5, LSU
84. Kenneth Murray, LB6, Oklahoma
85. James Proche, WR20, SMU
86. Javaris Davis, CB14, Auburn
87. Davion Taylor, LB7, Colorado
88. Darnay Holmes, CB15, UCLA
89. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB4, LSU
90. Harrison Bryant, TE1, Florida Atlantic
91. Brycen Hopkins, TE2, Purdue
92. Dane Jackson, CB16 Pittsburgh
93. Jaylinn Hawkins, S9, California
94. Darrell Taylor, EDGE10, Tennessee
95. Solomon Kindley, iOL6, Georgia
96. John Reid, CB17, Penn State
97. Darnell Mooney, WR21, Tulane
98. Stantley Thomas-Oliver, CB18, Florida International
99. Essang Bassey, CB19, Wake Forest
100. Geno Stone, S10, Iowa