Packers Edge Lions With ANOTHER UGLY WIN! YEA BABY!

Wow!  Just Win Ugly Baby!

Packers 23 - Lions 20!

Remember my prediction????

How?

1 - Win turnover battle, Packers were LUCKY last week!
My prediction????  Close Packers 1 & Lions 1!

2 - Aarons (Rodgers & Jones) lead the way, with a little Davante for good Luck!
     Rodgers - 321 yards for 4,000 for season
     Jones - 16 yards for 1000 yards for season & 1 TD for 20 in season
     Adams - 96 yards for 1000 yards for season
My prediction?  Rodgers   YES 4002 Yards
My prediction?  Jones    YES 1084 Yards
My Prediction?  Adams  CLOSE  997 Yards!

3 - Sack Brothers, Smith & Smith get a few more - Z Smith with 13.5 & P Smith with 12 now!
My Prediction?  Smith Brothers 0 Sacks, BUT Z Smith  pass rush was BIG in Martinez interception!

4 - Special Teams be SPECIAL - new return man continue to shine - Tyler Irvin
My Prediction?  Newcomer, Tyler Irvin, no big returns, but SOLID!  
He LOOKS close to a BIG RETURN!!!

5 - New Coach Matt LaFleur - ATTACK the ENTIRE game
My Prediction?  The Packers had to keep attacking, they were behind the entire game!!!!

So,  just to remind my loyal Packer fans:

Last TWO years:
NO PLAYOFFS - NO NFC TITLE - NO FUN!!!!

THIS YEAR?????

PLAYOFFS!!!!!

NFC NORTH CHAMP!

FUN!!!! (if you like ugly wins!)

Packers Will Beat The Lions If..............

It is simple, "Just Win Baby!"

How?

1 - Win turnover battle, Packers were LUCKY last week!

2 - Aarons (Rodgers & Jones) lead the way, with a little Davante for good Luck!
     Rodgers - 321 yards for 4,000 for season
     Jones - 16 yards for 1000 yards for season & 1 TD for 20 in season
     Adams - 96 yards for 1000 yards for season

3 - Sack Brothers, Smith & Smith get a few more - Z Smith with 13.5 & P Smith with 12 now!

4 - Special Teams be SPECIAL - new return man continue to shine - Tyler Irvin

5 - New Coach Matt LaFleur - ATTACK the ENTIRE game

So, a Packer Win and, depending on the 49ers, Saints & Seahawks????

Go Pack Go!

Win Pack Win!

Beat the Lions!

Week 17 - Packers vs Lions - Finish This!

Hard to believe, the 2019 NFL season is coming to a close!  What difference a year makes!

The 2019 Packers are a completely different team!  Some of the obvious?

1 - Gone Mike McCarthy - New Head Coach Matt LaFleur

LEADERSHIP & RESULTS

2 - Gone Ted Thompsons 2 yers ago - New (2 years) Brian Gutekunst

LEADERSHIP & RESULTS

3 - Gone Clay Matthews & Nick Perry - New Players Za'Darius Smith & Preston Smith!

LEADERSHIP & RESULTS!

4 - Gone Jordy Nelson & Randall Cobb - Replace with Davante Adams & others (Lazard, Allison, ..)

LEADERSHIP & INCONSISTENT RESULTS!

5 - Gone Ha Ha - Replace with Amos

LEADERSHIP & NO DRAMA

The difference is many things, fresh start, new faces, team togetherness, many positive issues!

FINISH THIS!  

BEAT THE LIONS!

Packers Clinch NFC North and "Just Win Ugly Works Again!"

Here we are:

2019 NFC North Champions

Back in the NFL Playoffs

Beating the NFC North rivals the Vikings in their house.

The method of course, "Just Win Ugly"

How did we win ugly this time?

Packers offense - 3 turnovers!  - Packers defense hangs tough!

Packers offense settles for 3 first half field goals - Packer Running game rolls!

The talking point needs to be the focus!  Even though the Vikings were without their top runner, the Vikings did have their top receivers!  The Smith Brothers, especially "Z" was on fire!
The Packer Offense looked close again!  Rodgers is still a little off!  Maybe the playoff run will be enough to keep in locked in!

My Team Drive Analysis:

Packers 14 Drives
1 - through out this drive the last one with kneel downs to run out the clock
5 - Punts
5 - scores - 3 FG's & 2 TD's
3 - Turnovers (Unacceptable)

Viking 13 Drives
8 - Punts
2 - on Downs
2 - 2 Scores - 1 FG & 1 TD
1 - Turnover

The "Eye Ball Test"!  Things this seem better & this team just wins!

How far will this Rookie Coach take this team??  Hold on Baby!

But, BEAT THE LIONS FIRST!!!!

Packers vs Vikings - Game #2 - "Just Win Ugly!"

My 2019 Packer Season Slogan - "Just Win Ugly", I'm starting to like it!

After the Bears lateral play ended on the Packer 2 yard line with time running out, I just smiled!  Was the smile a smile of an insane Packer Fan?  Was the smile seeing Packer Fans giving the traditional "High Fives" after a big play?  Was the smile realizing I would now buy Turtles at the local Culvers? Or, was the smile just frozen on my face after sitting in the 10 degree Packer cold after 4 hours???

Packer Buddies - Terry, Jim, Bill, & Phil!

Jim & Bill tubing!! (Meanwhile, Terry & Phil in car staying warm!)

Aaron, getting ready for a Packer TD!!!

And Lambeau!  This is a SPECIAL PLACE!!!

Anyway you look at it - A SMILE!!!!!

Packers are 11 wins & 3 losses!

Packers are in first place in the NFC North!

Packers are as of today the #2 seed in the NFC!

The Packers are in the Playoffs after 2 seasons of watching!!

The Packers are BACK!

"Just Win Ugly!"

So, next up, the Vikings!

What must happen?  And Monday Night Football!!!

Packers Offense - CONSISTENCY!

This is what we are looking for, a running game, setting up the play action passing game!  An attacking, aggressive play calling!  Spreading the ball around, a commitment to all wide receivers!  Lazard & Kumerow show what can happen when persistent players, who were NOT drafted, become new folk heroes - like a Donald Driver!  A running game that breaks a big run!  And, the tight ends helping move the chains!!

Packers Defense - Smith Brothers pressure!  Lowry & Clark defend the middle!  And, those young d-backs show their talent - Alexander, Savage, King & Amos!  Turnovers, interceptions & forced fumble create a short field for the offense!!!  And, the offense takes advantage!

Special Teams - Did we find a returner??  Bears game shows that!!!!  Tyler Irvin #32!  Keep an eye on him!!!

So, let the Super Bowl run begin!!

Headlines for Tuesday!!

Packers clinch the NFC North 

with a win over the Vikings!

Packers Win Game #200 Over Bears And Packer Buddies Are There for the Fun!

Following the 2019 Packer Season Motto, "Just Win Ugly", the Packers win Ugly!

And, the Packer Buddies were there to see it!

Comments on the NFL Meetings

Today I will take a time out discussing my Packers and make a few comments about the NFL meetings & some of the issues surrounding the NFL future.

Issue #1 - NFL Officiating

Wow!  This is BIG!  And, as a long time football fan (old-timer!), I am VERY concerned about the officiating & rules enforcement.  Here is a list of my concerns:

a.  Instant Replay
We are in a new world of technology!  The can of worms is open & probably will never be closed!  ALL SPORTS are using instant replay & ALL SPORTS are having issues!  So, what do we do?  I see two choices - 1-  DO NOT USE IT!  (I know, this is an old timer talking!)  2 - Use it ONLY sparingly!  Here is an idea - coaches can use it ONLY 3 times a game - they get to choose.  And, they can use it at any time for any reason - pass interference, holding, offsides, or to checkout the cheerleaders!  3 - Fix what we have now!  Good luck with this one!

The other issue I have is the flow of the game!  There is NO FLOW to the game with instant replay!!!

And, the use of the GIANT screen in stadiums for the fans.  If I were in charge, the replay would not be used with controversial plays!  It stirs up the fans & makes the officials look bad!

b.  What is pass interference?  To me this is easy, if the ball is in the air, no touching either the offense or defensive player!  NO TOUCHING!!!!  SIMPLE!

c.  BAD officials are dismissed!  Maybe this is happening, but, it needs to happen!

Issue #2 - Salary Cap

It is going up again!  From somewhere just under 200 million a year to over 200 million per year.  Have you been to a game?  Cheapest ticket over $100.  (using internet ticket buying 300-400  a ticket!) Beer $$$.  Parking$$$  Water$$$$  We need a fan union!  My prediction, eventually, the NFL will need to be concerned about fans & the cost of a game!  Players and Owners are making PLENTY of money.

Issue #3 - Collective Bargaining

Another contract.  My issues, player health concerns.  BOTH current players & retired players!  It is a dangerous game, take care of the health of all players.

Owners money & players money.  What is fair?  Just like a business, the owner deserves more money than the workers, BUT, how much is a fair share?  Not only is this an NFL issue, but, an issue for every business.

Issue #4 - Scheduling

Wow!  Where do I begin?  Regular "old" NFL Schedule - Sunday Games - two times - early & late games, usually 1 & 4 pm EST.  To today, Regular old games schedule, plus, Monday Night football, and Thursday night football. and playing games in London, Mexico, etc?  WOW!  And, the NFL is concerned about injuries?  HA HA!  All these different days of play?  $$$  $$$!  If you were a young man (or woman) that played high school football, and were asked to play another football game 4 days later (normal high school Friday nights & then Tuesday?  HA HA!  Not $$$ $$$!

Issue #5 - This is my special concern - I'm sure the NFL does not care! - Celebrations!

WOW!  Make ONE play, and you strut around like a PEACOCK?  Make one play, and you need a SPECIAL CELEBRATION?  There is less in two minutes in the game, you make a play, you strut around, the clock is running!!!!  WOW!  It is OK to be excited, emotional, football is an emotional game!  BUT, WE HAVE CROSSED THE LINE!

Again, I am an old timer! I know we need to change, BUT, change for the sake of change?  What are we teaching our kids?  Commercials for Thursday Night Football focus on two opposing fans trash talking each other, funny, but not good.

I still love this game, but THIS game is beginning to lose me!

NFL?  

NOT FOR LONG?  

TIME WILL TELL!

Week 15 - Packers vs Bears, Game #200 in the Rivalry!

Here we go!

Game #200 in the rivalry that began in 1921!  The series record: 98-95-6, Packers leading the series!  What will Game #200 look like?

Week 15 in the 2019 Season - Packers playing for the NFC North Title against last years NFC North Champions the Bears!

Week 15 in the 2019 Season - Packers trying to hold off the Minnesota Vikings who are one game being the Packers!

Week 15 in the 2019 Season - Packers are now the 2nd seed in the NFC and are playing for a BYE week during the playoffs!  First seed at this time are the 49ers.

Last Home game in the 2019 Season!  This could be the last home game at Lambeau this year, unless the Packers get a playoff game at home!

And, the most important things of ALL these important thing!

THE PACKER BUDDIES WILL BE THERE!!!!!!!!!

So, here we go!  Another great trip for the Packer Buddies!  And, another BIG games of MANY BIG games for the Packer Buddies!!!

Packers Over Redskins, Another Ugly Win!

He we are again!  HAPPY! KIND OF!  A Packer win on the ugly side!

Packers 20 - Redskins 15

Start as I usually dom analyzing team drives:

Packer Drives - 11 Drives
2 - End of Half & End of Game
4 - Scores - 2 TD's & 2 FG's
4 - Punts
1 - Fumble

Redskins Drives - 10 Drives
3 - Scores - 2 TD's & 1 FG
6 - Punts
1 - Interception

Packers jump out fast, first quarter, 3 drives 2 TD's!  Second quarter driving for another score - and Rodgers fumble on a sack!  So, could have been 21-6 at half.  Redskins, with one good drive - 95 yards for TD.

Second half score - Redskins 9 - Packers 6.  A typical NFL ending.  Packers leading 20 - 9, let the Redskins drive 75 yards, with 1:17 left in game for a score!  Packers defense plays VERY well except for 2 drives!

Packers again follow a similar path for the win.  Offense & defense play well enough to win!  Still some growing pains!  Remember, new head coach, 2nd year defensive coordinator.  Second year general manager.  New players, old player gone, do not forget (Jordy, Randall, Clay, .....)

This team is in transition!  Overall, a GREAT improvement from the last 2 years!!!

GO PACK GO!!!!!!

Packer vs Redskins, Back at Lambeau

12 games in, first place in the NFC North and a game up on the Vikings.  What is up with the Washington Redskins!

Head coach was fired.  Rookie quarterback now starting.  What is happening?

Redskins are on the move, on a 2 game winning streak.

Week 12 - Redskins 19 - Lions 16
Week 13 - Redskins 29 - Panthers 21

Last week 248 yards rushing!  Peterson & Guice!

So, stop the run & make the the rookie QB beat you!

Washington Redskins - 6 sacks!  Protect Aaron Rodgers.

So, my two takes - stop Redkins run & protect Aaron!

As mentioned in an earlier blog entry, this Packer team is still trying to figure out who they are.  The McCarthy era ended, the LaFleur era is started.  The Smith boys are leading the defense.  A new offense is being digested by our big time quarterback!  It is not a perfect team, but at 9 wins & 3 losses, a team that is making strides!

A side note, the Packers are still trying to figure out the special team return game.  Watch newcomer, Tyler Ervin was picked up to handle the return game - keep a close eye on that!

Home game, Packer fans - GET LOUD!

Packers Win Over Giants, Just What We Needed!

Week 13:

Packers Win & Vikings Loss!  A Great Week!

One thing I always analyze are the team Drives:

Packers - 9 Drives

5 - scoring drives - 4 TD's & 1 FG!
3 - Punts
1 - End of Game

Giant Drives - 9 Drives

3 - scoring drives - 1 TD & 2 FG's
3 - Turnovers!! (THIS IS GREAT!)
1 - Punt
1 - Downs
1 - End of Half

A look at the drives and easy to see why we won.  Rogers was efficient, 4 TD passes is what we like, on the negative side, running game sputtered!  Defense, no sacks, but good pressure & 3 interceptions ia another great thing!!!!

So, at the end of a trip to they west coast & a trip to the east coast, the Packers are 3/4 of the way through the season & find themselves in first place in the NFC North & at this time, 3rd seed in the NFC.

A quick look at the the 6 top teams & who they play:

Packers 9 & 3 - play Redskins, Bears, Vikings, & Lions
Seahawks 10 & 2 - play Rams, Panthers, Cards, & 49ers
Saints 10 & 2 - play 49ers, Colts, Titans, & Panthers
49ers 10 & 2 - play Saints, Falcons, Rams, & Seahawks
Vikings 8 & 4 - play Lions, Chargers, Packers, & Bears
Cowboys 6 & 6 - play Bears, Rams, Eagles, & Redskins

Just a little reminder for you fans (me included) that at times get frustrated!  Last two seasons:

2018 - Season - 7 wins & 9 losses - NO PLAYOFFS
2017 - Season - 6 wins, 9 losses & 1 tie - NO PLAYOFFS

Next up - Washington Redskins!

Go Pack Go!

Packers vs Giants, What Packer Team Will We See?

What Packer Team Will We See??

Offense?  Aaron Rodgers leads the way?  A balanced attack?  Running game controls the clock?  Passing game looks sharp and tight ends & running backs are involved?  No turnovers?

Defense?  Pressure on QB leads to Giant turnovers?  Smith brothers each have two sacks?  Packers defense backs give up NO big plays?  Packer linebackers, lead by Martinez makes solid & crisp tackles?

Special Teams?  Packer Punter pins Giants deep?  Packers return a kickoff or punt for a TD (Holy Crap!)  And, special teams, like our defense makes clean & crisp tackles?

OK, that is what I need to see?  What will we see?  To me numbers, stats, analytics are fine, BUT the EYE BALL test is FINER!!!  You can tell a good football team without numbers - THEY LOOK GOOD!

The west coast has not been good to us, what will the east coast look like!

All time record - Packers 33 Wins - Giants 26 wins & 2 ties.

Last 10 games Packers 5 wins & Giants 5 wins.

Last game - Playoff game 2017, January 6 - Packers 38 & Giants 13!

Packers - 49ers? What the Heck was that!

How does 37-8 happen?

Openning fumble?

Losing right offensive tackle early.

Giving up BIG plays by the defense!

Offense - nothing - NO RUSHING & NO PASSING!

What is uo with Aaron Rodgers?

Punter?  This is not was a talented punter looks like?

Punt & Kick Return - NEED PLAYERS!

The game was a mess & that is all I want to say about that!

Next game, Packers at Giants!

NEED A BIG WIN!!!

A Big Game! Packers-49ers!

If you follow the Packers closely, like I do, this year has been "A close one"!  A record of 8 wins & 2 losses:

Game 1 - Packers 10 Bears 3
Game 2 - Packers 21 Vikings 16
Game 3 - Packers 27 Broncos 16
Game 4 - Eagles 34 Packers 27
Game 5 - Packers 34 Cowboys 24
Game 6 - Packers 23 Lions 22
Game 7 - Packers 42 Raiders 24
Game 8 - Packers 31 Chiefs 24
Game 9 - Chargers 26 Packers 11
Game 10 - Packers 24 Panthers 16

A lot of close games!  A lot of good teams!  Do we really know what this team is????

A look at the 49ers record, 9 wins & 1 loss:

Game 1 - 49ers 31 Bucs 17
Game 2 - 49ers 41 Bengals 17
Game 3 - 49ers 24 Steelers 20
Game 4 - 49ers 31 Browns 3
Game 5 - 49ers 20 Rams 7
Game 6 - 49ers 9 Redskins 0
Game 7 - 49ers 51 Panthers 13
Game 8 - 49ers 28 Cardinals 25
Game 9 - Seahawks 27 49ers 24
Game 10 - 49ers 36 Cardinals 26

An easier schedule, but some impressive wins!

So, next subject, injuries?  Believe it or not, we, the Packers are the healthier team!  But, do not want to jinx the rest of the year!!!

QB - I'll take Aaron - Packers
RB - Packer is healthier with Jone & Williams - Packers
WR - With Adams a week of rest & 49ers health concerns - Packers
TE - Depends on 49ers Kittle health - 49ers
OL - Bakhtiari has another Bosa! This is a toss up - EVEN
DL - 49ers get the edge - 49ers
LB - This is another toss up - Smith brothers must dominate!  - EVEN
DB's - Wow, can Pack avoid big plays & communication issues - PROVE IT! - 49ers
Special Teams - This is another area of Packer concern, mostly return game - 49ers

Another close one?  My prediction???

Packers 24 - 49ers 21

Go Pack Go!

Packers Begin Final Push!

Here we go!  Six games remaining:

49ers
Giants
Redskins
Bears
Vikings
Lions

The San Fransisco 49ers are one of the NFL's 2019 surprise teams!  What do we expect?

An away game on the west coast! Remember the last time!  The Chargers game?  Opps! A VERY
flat team!  A rumor that getting there a day early was a BAD idea!  So, how will the Packers handle this road trip??

Playing an NFC first place team!  A team that is battling the Packers for the top seed in the NFC!  End of year playoff?  Remember tie breakers - head-to-head games are VERY important!

49ers have a very good defense! As of today, second in total team defense!

So, Packer Offense!  What do I want to see?

1 - Spread the wealth!  Running game - YES!  Jones & Williams FEED the ball to the running backs. Passing Game - big game from Adams & Graham!  I have been dreaming of 2 TD & 100 yards from Graham for a long time!!  Adams, also needs a couple TD's!  And, attack down field!!!!

2 - Creativity? I thought I would see more from the new coach?  We need some new stuff!!

3 - Of course, NO TURNOVERS!

The 49ers offense exploded last week with over 400 yards passing!  Before this game, they were running the ball well!  What do I want to see?

1 - NO big plays!  We still have some young d-backs that seem to let receivers run free!  No more!

2 - Pass run & hits on QB!  Smith brothers, keep on trucking!  Would be nice to see Clark have a big day!  And, cut down the total yards!  So far, we have given up some huge yardage!  STOP IT!

3 - Turnovers!  WIN the battle!

And, Special Teams!  Mostly, return game!  We need a return man to break out!  And, we need to not give up big runs!

The Packers are in a great position after 11 weeks, a win, moves the Packers into #1 seed in the NFC!

Packers Bye Week - The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly!

If I go back over my Packer Blog, I probably used this theme before!!  Of, course, one of my favorite movies, LOVE WESTERNS!  Actors, Clint Eastwood, few words and more action!  And, the GOOD GUY wins! Of course, that is the Packers!  The GOOD guys!!

The GOOD!

1 - First place in the NFC North!  8 Wins & 2 Losses.  One of the TOP seeds in the NFC.

2 - The Offense.  Aaron Rodgers, Aaron Jones (and, Jamaal Williams), Davante Adams, & an offensive line that is growing together!

3 - Defense.  The Smith Brothers, young D-backs, & Blake Martinez.

The BAD!

1 - The offense - Tight Ends - NEED more!

2 - The Defense - Inside Linebacker help, mistakes  - big plays, usually poor communication or rookie mistakes?

3 - Special Teams - mostly the return game, and at time, cover teams.

The Ugly!

1 - Chargers Game!  Not into it!  Lots of yards in first half.  And, offense was "Out to Lunch!"

2 - Eagles Game!  Same as above, especially run yards & turnovers.

So, what do we need to finish the season?

Consistency!  Both offense & defense need to take that next step.  Offense, avoid the 3 and outs!  Keep a good mix of run & pass, and work the play action pass game!  Defense, provide consist QB pressure, while maintaining a quality run defense.  And, limit the BIG plays!  Special Teams, I would love to see a couple punt of kick return for TD's!

Enjoy the BYE week!

All Packer Fans Need A Break, My Break, A Week of Golf in Pinehurst, NC!

So, golfing & eating - while eating caught a glimpse of Chargers-Packers Game!  WOW!  No offense or defense!  And what I read about the game, players lost focus & Toooooo much fun!  So, responding with a win against Carolina, a GOOD thing!  And, still first place and 8 wins & 2 losses!

So, after catching up, what observations?

1 - We have won a LOT of close games!  That could be good or bad?  Good, this team DOES come up with a play, interception, fumble recovery, TD run or pass, a the RIGHT time!  Bad, can they keep doing this?????

2 - Offense - run game is hot, run game is not!  Passing game is hot, passing game is not!  Defense makes a big stop, and 2 losses they did NOT.

3 - Turnovers - Packer Defense 9 interceptions & 6 fumble recoveries = 15.  Packer Offense 2 interceptions & 5 fumbles = 7, so Pack is +8

4 - Rankings in League - Total Points for the offense - 11th with 25 per game, defense given up
ranking is 12th at 20.5 per game.  That is a lot of close games.

5.  Injuries - I should not say this, but we have been fortunate so far after 10 games!  Davante Adams has missed a bunch and we still passed the ball.  Lane Taylor starting guard is on IR, but rookie Jenkins has been more than good!  Bumps, bruises, the NFL is a contact sport, I think!

So, what does the "Packer Fan Gut" think?

1 - Stay healthy!
2 - Keep working the run & pass combination!  And, the play action will be unstoppable!  Adams, MUST continue to to be a PRO BOWL type of receiver!  And, will young receivers continue to make plays - (I love Kumerow & Lazard!)  Running game, DO NOT give up on it early in game!  And, Jones & Williams are a good 1-2 punch (AND, keep throwing to backs!)  Tight Ends - Lewis still a great blocker & Graham, COME ON Jimmy!!!!!!
3 - Defense - keep turning the ball over!  And, clean up the poor communication that allows a free receiver to go free!!!!  Sacks & QB hits!!!  And, Smith brothers, keeping leading and having fun!  But, stay away from the WEED!

A great season so far & a FUN team!  Rodgers seems relaxed.  The defense is making plays!  And, isn't it refreshing having a coach that answers question and does not seem to look down on reporters & their questions! So, a BYE week and a chance to take a breath!

Go Pack Go!

Game #9 - Packers vs Chargers

Here we go!  Trip to west coast and the Los Angeles Chargers!  As a kid, I loved the San Diego Chargers - John Had, Lance Alworth, Keith Lincoln, and many other names, that even include DeaconJone & Johnny Unitas at the end of their careers! Of course,  the awesome light blue uniforms in the old AFL!  It was a fun league that made the NFL a better place!

Lance Alworth

So, back to my Packers, sorry I slipped off to my childhood!  What do we watch for the Packers?

1 - Will Davante Adams play!  Turf toe!  A misunderstood injury!  Having never had turf toe(although I cracked my little toe headed to the bathroom a 3 am to pee!)  Apparently, it is painful and a wide receiver must run!  So, with all the young receivers improving week to week, take your time Davante!

2 - Williams & Jones, our 1-2 running punch!  We need this to continue!  And remember, a running game, allows for play action passing & slows down the pass rush!  So, "keep on running!"

3 - The Aaron Rodgers & a push towards league MVP!  He need another year that makes it clear he is on of the best ever!!!  Why not 2019!

Now defense,

4 - Come pass rush!  Smith brothers!  How about a little noise from Kenny Clark!!!  And, what ever happened to our top draft choice - Rashan Gary???

5 - Interceptions!!!!  Alexander, King, Savage, & Amos!  A BIG pass rush leads to turnovers!

6 - Inside linebackers(Summers, Goodson & Burk)!  Keep making noise to keep Blake Martinez use less of his CLUB!

And special teams!

7 - It is time!  We made a change, brought in a new guy - Tremon Smith in & Darrius Shepherd out!
Wouldn't it be nice if if we had a return for a TD!!!!  WE ARE DUE!!!!

So, a lot to play for!  Stay on top of the NFC North!!  Keep building wins, remember, getting to 10-11 wins usually helps to get to at least a wild card!  Offense & Defense are each building!

Packers Finish First Half of The 2019 Season

Here we are!  First place NFC North - 7 wins & 1 Loss!  What does the second half of the season
look like??


Week 9 -  Sunday, Nov 3 - 4:25 pm - at Chargers
Week 10 - Sunday, Nov 10 - 4:25 pm - home - Panthers
Week 11 - BYE
Week 12 - Sunday, Nov 24 - 4:25 pm - at 49ers
Week 13 - Sunday, Dec 1 - 1:00 pm - at Giants
Week 14 - Sunday, Dec 8 - 1:00 pm - home - Redskins
Week 15 - Sunday, Dec 15 - 1:00 pm - home - Bears
Week 16 - Monday, Dec 23 - 8:15 pm - at Vikings
Week 17 - Sunday, Dec 29 - 1:00 pm - at Lions

I am NOT even going to predict!  I am doing a LeFleur, we must go 1-0!  Next up,
beat the Chargers!  It will be another battle!  But, this should be a AWAY, HOME game!

This is what I heard today!  The stadium, a soccer stadium seats 27,000.  The prediction,
75% of the fans will be PACKER FANS!!!

The game is dangerous!  Chargers are 3-5, but they have lost close games!
loss 13-10 to Lions
loss 27-20 Texans
loss 20-13 Broncos
loss 24-17 Steelers
loss 23-20 Titans

This is a dangerous team!
QB - Phillip Rivers
RB - Melvin Gordon
WR - Kenyan Allen

This a dangerous team!
The just fired their offensive coordinator!

This is a dangerous team!
Their defense held the Lions to 13 points!

So, buckle your chin straps!  Another close game!!!

Packers Win Over Chiefs, Game #8

We wait all year for the NFL season and then, in the blink of an eye, it is over!  The Packer season is at the half way point!  A new coach, a young GM, a veteran QB!  A defense that is finding a personality.  An offense, that is developing new heroes.  Every NFL team is either trending up or down.  I think it is obvious the direction of the Green Bay Packers are trending!  BUT, one thing about the NFL, you can never stop working!

Packers 34 - Chiefs 27, what did we learn in week 8?

1 - The Packers found a way to win again.  The bottom line is winning, that is the ONLY stat that matters in the NFL!  And, with the Chiefs down their star QB, their veteran coach gave the Packers all they could handle!  And, the Packers rookie coach responded.  Result - Packers 8 wins - 1 loss.

2 - Aaron Jones - a special running back!  67 yards rushing & 159 yards receiving & 2 TD's.
     (And, Jamaal Williams is not bad either!)

3 - Defense is a bend, not break group.  Big plays are part of a weekly story.  This week, Tyler Lancaster (love that name, living in Lancaster, PA), causes & recovers a BIG fumble!

4 - The young receivers are still making plays! Kumerow, Allison, Lazard, Valdes-Scantling.

5 - The young d-backs are still making plays!  Alexander, King, Savage, Sullivan.

6 - Aaron Rodgers, being Aaron Rodgers!

The atmosphere has been great.  Smith brothers are leading the way.  The young head coach is
developing a foothold in Lambeau.  There are 8 games remaining and good & bad times ahead.  Let us see how this 2019 group responds!  One guarantee, it will NOT be boring!!

Next up, San Diego, Los Angeles Chargers!

Packers Show Signs of Aggressive Play!

Just a few things about your PackerBacker Blogger:

1 - I HATE the prevent defense!

2 - I HATE an offense trying to run out the clock!

3 - I HATE letting a QB just sit back and pick a defense apart!

4 - I HATE running the ball on first & second down & then trying to get a first down!

I LOVE AGGRESSIVE PLAY!

Do you see the clip of our new coach saying "Keep Our Foot on The Gas!"

Attack - Attack - Attack!

Blitz the QB!  Throw deep!  Run a trick play!  Mix it up!  Stay aggressive!!!!  The entire game!

Go down swinging!

Especially, a team like the Chiefs.  Andy Reid is an aggressive offensive coach!  The Chiefs defense sacked the Bronco QB, Flacco, I think 9 times!!!  So, the Packers need to play loose & free!!

The Smith brothers, Preston & Za'Darius have added an aggressive feel & swagger to the defense!  Our young d-backs fly around the field!  The young receivers seem to be maturing into playmakers!  Kumerow, a division 3 fine seems to be a diamond in the rough!  Valdes-Scantling has great speed!  Lazard plays with a chip on his shoulder!  Our running backs Jones & Williams seem to be able to run & catch the football!  Vitale is a fullback, that could be the next Kuuuuuuhn!  Vvvvvvvvvvvvv!

So, watch Sunday night a see if we stay aggressive!

Go Pack Go!

Attack Attack Attack!

Game # 8 - Packers vs Chiefs

The NFLis a moving target!  Coaching get hired & fired.  Teams play away games & home games.  Teams suffer injuries, some are week to week, some are for the year, some are nagging each week, and others are to key player or roll players.  Fumble & interceptions happen.  Officials make good & bad calls.

The Packers have been through all of this and are 6 wins & 1 loss!!

So, away we go to to Kansas City!  The Packer Buddies were there a few years ago & had a great time!  In fact, the Packers were undefeated at the time, week 15,  and lost to the Chiefs!!!  The Pack finished the year with 15 wins & 1 loss!

Now, 2019 what is the situation??

Packers are in first place NFC North.  Chiefs in first place in the AFC West.  The Chiefs may be without their star young QB - Patrick Mahomes!  The Packers are still without their star receiver - Davante Adams (maybe).  The Packers & Chiefs met in Super Bowl 1, could they meet in this years Super Bowl??

First, the home field advantage is big in Kansas City!  Loud & Proud Chief Fans!!!

Second, two teams with an eye on the playoffs!

Third, the cagy, creative, old head coach against the young, up & coming head coach!

More to come, but this looks like a fun game & it is Sunday Night!!!!

Packers vs Chiefs!!  2019!

Packers vs Chiefs - Super Bowl I

Packers Roll Over Raiders, Is The Offense Starting To Gell?

NFL football games usually turn on a few key plays!  This game was NO different!

Item #1 - Raider QB Carr fumbles into end zone!  What should be pointed out is Packer inside linebacker, Martinez initiated the contact!  His HUSTLE did it!

Item #2 - The Packers offense kept attacking the Raider Defense!!  Rodgers was allowed to start aggressive throughout the game!  Therefore, 42 points!

Item #3 - No Davante Adams, young receivers shine!  Allison, Valdes-Scantling, Kumerow, and Lazard!  Remember, names like Donald Driver, Jordy Nelson, Greg Jennings, Randall Cobb were NOT big names coming out of college!

Item #4 - Packers are 6 & 1, in first place in the NFC North!  Enjoy it!

Work still needs to be done!  Vikings are looking good!  Bears, not so much!  And, Lions are still very dangerous!  NFL schedule is relentless!  Next up - Kansas City Chiefs - and an away game!

Go Pack Go!

Game #7 - Packers vs Raiders

Game 7, another Lambeau home field, and another opportunity for the Packers to grow!

What to watch for?

Packer Offense vs Raiders Defense

1 - The Packers 3 starting wide receivers could be out!  So, step up Kumerow, Lazard, and Shepherd! And new guy - Grant!  Wow!  This will be fun to watch!

Packer Defense vs Raiders Offense

1 - Stop the Raiders rookie Jacobs who has had a great start!  Key on Lowry & Clark inside and how the Pack Defense protects the gaps!

Packer Offense vs Raiders Defense

2 - Packer run game!  Two weeks ago it was Jones and last week it was Williams.  Why not a big game from both and how they will impact the passing game!!!

Packer Defense vs Raiders Offense

2 - Another step for the Packers your defensive backs!  Need to NOT give up the big gain!  And, why not at least TWO interceptions!

Packer Offense vs Raiders Defense

3 - Two words - Aaron Rodgers

Packer Defense vs Raiders Offense

3 - Two words, actually 3

Smith and Smith

So, another close game?  Another close win?  YES!

Packers 27 - Raiders 17

Packers Nip The Lions 23-22

Well, first things first, officiating is in a bad way, we know that!  Pass Interference, Holding, and Hands to the Face!  This is the NFL of 2109, technology and analytics is the KING!

Hands to the Face - Apparently, a rushing technique used to jolt a offensive linemen in the neck area is a difficult call!  Remember, the head coach for the Lions is a disciple of Bill Belichek, and if a technique is questionable he probably coached it!  Bakhtiari complained that the Lions pass rusher, Flowers, was a times punching the neck area. So, keep an eye on the Lions in the future, and the league, is this a technique being used.  Any way, Lions fans, THE PACKERS WIN!!!

Field Goals vs TD's?  Lions found out what that means!  Many great plays, but Alexander hustling on the Lions first "flea flicker" play to stop a TD was a sign of things to come!!  GREAT PLAY!

The overall defensive toughness, holding Lions to Field Goals, was a GREAT SIGN!  The Packers Defense against the run, was a GOOD SIGN!

Young receivers stepping up!  No, Davante Adams!  We still have drops.  But, big plays were made!  Lazard, Vades-Scantling, Allison, Shepherd, & Kumerow!  Unknown names, making  plays!

A new runner had a great game - Jamaal Williams!  Aaron Jones & Williams are developing into a great 1-2 punch!

And, the Packers last drive, ate clock, and won the game!!  That is ALWAYS A GOOD THING!

End result - Packers are 5 & 1, first place in the NFC North!

Next up Raiders!

Final Comments on Packers Game #6 - Lions

Like our new coach loves to say, "We are 0-0 trying to become 1-0!"

So, what do we know?

1 - Packers young receivers need to rise up!  Valdes-Scantling, Allison & the rest!

2 - Old tight ends need to step up!  Graham & Lewis!  Wouldn't it be awesome to see
a Jimmy Graham - say 8 receptions - 80 yards - 2 TD's!!

3 - Running game - Williams is back, Jones on a roll, 150 yards rushing!

4 - Aaron Rodgers - game manager? 250 yards 3 TD's?????  No turnovers!

5 - Smith Boys continue to meet at the QB!  How about 5 sacks for D?

6 - Interceptions - young d-backs continue to shine!!

7 - A great game from special teams!!

It is the Lions!  We are at home! Protect your home field!  And,

Packers 31 - Lions 17

Game #6 - Detroit Lions - It Is Time To Beat The Lions!

OK, overall the Packers 100 Wins - Lions 72, and 7 ties!  A GOOD thing!

Last 30 Games Packers 20 wins & Lions 10 wins!  A GOOD thing!

Last 4 games - Lions winning 4 in a row! A BAD THING!!!!!!!

WOW!  It is time for a win!!!!

What is at stake?
   A home game - WIN IT!
   A NFC North battle for 1st Place - WIN IT!
   A future tie breaker for future playoff - WIN IT!
   WIN IT - WIN IT - WIN IT!

The Lions, with a coach from the Bill Belichik tree it VERY difficult to play!  The magic of the
system is the system changes by the week!  Offense & Defense will change on a weekly basis & the
Lions have had two weeks, after their BYE week!  So, expect the unexpected!

The Lions

QB - Matt Stafford

88 0f 141 pass for 62%  -  9 TD's & 2 interceptions  -  Sacked 7 times

RB - Kerryon Johnson

74 rushed for 251 yards at 3.4 yds/carry - 1 TD

WR

Kenny Golladay

19 receptions for 243 yards - 4 TD's

LB - Tracy Walker - 36 tackles

LB - Devon Kennard - 3 Sacks



When you look at stats - the Lions spread things around on offense.  Stafford is good enough to see the entire field & athletic enough to keep a defense honest!  On defense, they play as a team & attack with different looks & coverages!

Games so far in 2019:

1 - Lions 27 - Cardinals 27
2 - Lions 13 - Chargers 10
3 - Lions 27 - Eagles 24
4 - Chiefs 34 - Lions 30
5 - Bye Week

As the scores show, VERY close games!  The interesting comparisons, tie the struggling Cardinals, BEAT the Eagles!  Played the Chiefs tough in a loss!  This a team, much like the Packers, a team looking for an identity!

More to come!

Go Pack Go!

Looking at The Packer 53 Man Roster

One thing every NFL team will probably tell you, "The 53 man roster is NOT enough!"  And, during the 17 week NFL season, "The 53 man roster in in constant flux!"  So, where are the Packers?

QB(2) - Aaron Rodgers, Tim Boyle
RB(4) - Aaron Jones, Jamaal Williams, Tra Carson, Dexter Williams
FB(1) - Danny Vitale
WR(6) - Davante Adams, Maquez Valdes-Scantling, Geronimo Allison, Jake Kumerow,
               Allen Lazard, & Darius Shepherd
TE(3) - Jimmy Graham, Mercedes Lewis, Robert Tonyan
OL(9) - David Bakhtiari, Brian Bulaga, Elgton Jenkins, Billy Turner, Corey Linsley, Alex Light,
               Cole Madison, Adam Pankey, Lucas Patrick

25 Offensive Players

DL(5) - Dean Lowry, Montravious Adams, Kenny Clark, Kingsley Keke, Tyler Lancaster
LB(9) - Blake Martinez, Oren Burks, Kyler Fackrell, Za'Darius Smith, Preston Smith,
               Rashan Gary, BJ Goodson, Ty Summers, Tim Williams
S(3) - Adrian Amos, Darnell Savage, Will Redmund
CB(8) - Jaire Alexander, Kevin King, Tramon Williams, Josh Jackson, Ka'Dar Hollman,
               Tony Brown, Tremon Smith, Chandon Sullivan

25 Defensive Players

K - Mason Crosby
P - JK Scott
LS - Hunter Bradley

3 Special Teams Players

So, after 5 games, what do YOU see?

See:
1 - Weakness at inside linebacker, although Oren Burks may be back
2 - Weakness at running back, Jamaal Williams concession, Dexter Williams not ready
3 - Strength at defensive backs, young, fast, aggressive, but a times may make mistakes.
4 - Strength at QB - Aaron!
5 - Strength at Special Teams - Crosby still has it, JK Scott could be great!
6 - Turnovers - we have been winning the battle!

Next up, the Packers battle another NFC North rival - 
The Detroit Lions!

Should Packers Look To Make a Trade??

OK, let's take time to look at our roster & see if we should upgrade via trade??

Point #1 - Tight End

Roster - Jimmy Graham, Mercedes Lewis, & Robert Tonyan

I personally believe the Jimmy Graham experiment is over!  Mercedes Lewis, nah.  I still think our best tight end is Robert Tonyan.  So, where do we look?  A team that is in trouble.

Bengals - Tyler Eifert

Not many others out there!  Remember, our draft choice Jace Sternberger is on injured reserve.

Point #2 - Inside Linebacker

Roster - Blake Martinez, Oren Burks, BJ Goodson, Ty Summers

NY Jets - CJ Mosley

It would be nice to have a complement to Smith & Smith at outside linebackers!  An hitting
machine from the inside!

Point #3 - Wide Receiver

Broncos - Emmanuel Sanders

With our young receivers, a veteran would be nice!  I'm sure Aaron Rodgers would throw in a couple million!

So, will our GM be aggressive??

Game #5 - Packers Over Cowboys, Questions Answered, No Ones Are Asked?

First, a win in the NFL is special - ENJOY IT!

What did we learn in Week #5?

1 - The Packers Defense can stop the run!

2 - The Packers Offense can run the football!

Isn't this poetic!  Every week in the NFL is special!  Every week in the NFL will answer question and pose new ones!

3 - The Packers can WIN without Davante Adams!

We all know how difficult Aaron Rodgers is on young receivers!  He, Aaron, won a game with young receivers.  The Packers DO have a running game - Aaron Jones!  BUT, depth is an issue!  We are still waiting for our Tight Ends have a BIG night!  I still feel the man is Toyan!

4 - The Packers win the TURNOVER BATTLE!  - The Packers WIN the game!

Looks pretty simple!

Game #1 - Win over Bears Packers WIN turnover battle - 1-0
Game #2 - Win over Cowboys Packers WIN turnover battle - 4-2
Game #3 - Win over Cowboys Packers WIN turnover battle - 3-0
Game #4 - Loss with Eagles  Packers LOSE turnover battle - 0-2
Game #5 - Win over Cowboys Packers WIN turnover battle - 3-0

So, ENJOY THE WIN!

Why the Packer-Cowboys Game is So Important

This is only Game #5, BUT, this will tell us a lot about our 2019 Packers!

1 - Is the Packer Defense improved or not?  The first 3 games seemed to show a huge improvement!  But, the Packer defense looked very bad against the Eagles run game in game 4.  I still think, our d-backs are above average, but the d-line looked very weak.  And, inside linebacker may be getting a boost soon?  Oren Burke may be back soon.  Are the Packers a playoff team?

2 - The Packer Offense?  At time this year, WOW!  But, the Rodgers to Adams passing combo seems to be the key!  Running game next week, NO SHOW!  First, when we get Jamaal Williams back, after that cheap shot against the Eagles?  Our 3rd stringer, Dexter Williams may have a chance to strut his stuff this week!  Tight Ends, they keep telling us Jimmy Graham and his tight end buddies will make a move - NEED it this week!  Is the Packer Offense for real?

3 - Special Teams - we seem to have a punter, a kicker.  But, that long return by the Eagles hurt us last week - NO LONG RETURNS!  And, it has been years since the Packers have had a dangerous return game on kicks & punts!

4 - Coaching?  At time our young head coach sold look like a "deer in headlights"!  And, was part of the pathetic showing last week a Mike Pettine issue??  This game will need good coaching!

So, Packers - Cowboys!  A game that will tell us a lot about the Packers of 2019!!

Game #5 - Packers vs Cowboys

OK.  1st Quarter of the season is over!  Packers at 3 & 1, tied for first in NFC North!

I'd say OK, that is a nice start!  What is up for the 2nd Quarter???

at Dallas

home - Detroit

home Raiders

at Kansas City

Looking at the next four games, 2 & 2 would be acceptable!  3 & 1 awesome!

Now Dallas, what a history from the Ice Bowl to 2019!  Some great stuff!

Packers lead all time series - 19 wins & 17 losses.

Packers & Cowboys have met 8 times in post season - series tied 4 & 4!

So, a first look?

Packers Offense vs Dallas Defense

Pass?  Will we have Davante Adams???  Can we run the ball??  Will we have Jamaal Williams
after that cheap shot by the Eagles!!  The obvious is, we NEED both players!  And, by the way
is our starting right tackle out??  We need Bulaga also!

Packers Defense vs Dallas Offense

Last week should tell us something!  DO WE HAVE A DEFENSE?  Especially a RUN defense!
The Cowboys have Elliot, one of the leagues best & a BIG & very good offensive line!  The also have Cooper & a receiver named Randall Cobb!!!  Whoa baby!

A BIG game & a game that will show us what we have on this 2019 Packer Team!!!

Game #4 - Eagles 34 - Packers 27 - First Loss!

After 4 weeks, Packers record is 3 wins & 1 loss - tied for first in the NFL North!

Be honest, most fans would take that!

BUT, of course we are disappointed with the Eagles loss!  WHY?

1 - Packers Defense is NOT as good as we thought!  Maybe our pass defense,
but the Eagles ran all over us! Remember, the Packer Buddies were at the game.
The holes were "Gigantic"  from our seats!  The Eagle line moved our d-lineman
like they were on roller skates!  THIS MUST IMPROVE!

2 - Rodgers to Adams is a thing!  The Eagles could not stop it!  Problem is, Adams
missed the last 5 minutes!  AND, we missed him!  Turf Toe!  He cannot miss many games!

3 - Our inside linebackers have issues against the run!  First, we are STILL looking for a
second!  Martinez makes a lot of tackles, but, he is not physical enough inside!

4 - Our red zone offense could have put this game away!!  First & goal from the 1 and we
do NOT score?  CANNOT HAPPEN!

5 - Maybe our defensive coordinator was our coached?  That can happen.  He had no
real answer for the Eagles running game.

6 - The Packer running game was not there tonight!  Of course, Williams goes our with
a cheap shot(remember this is the same coach, that was the Lions head coach, that produced
cheap shots for the Lions!)  In fact, the player that knocks out Williams, caused a fumble
later in the game, he should have been ejected!

Just like the 3 previous games, things were tight!  In all four games, the feeling was any team could win it!  The first 3 games, the Packers would the turnover battles, game four NO!

Packers 2 turnovers & Eagles 0 - Eagles win turnover battle & the game!

So, good news, we re still in first!  Bad news, we have the Cowboys away, and they have a
great running game!  We will find out quickly if we can still become a great defense.  And,
we will find out if we are a playoff team?

Beat the Cowboys!!!

Next Up - Thursday Night Football - Eagles!

In the NFL, each game, each week, every day, is a test!  The next test - Philadelphia Eagles!

Two years ago, Super Bowl Champs - Philadelphia Eagles.

Head Coach Doug Pederson, was Packers back-up QB in 1996, 97, 98!

Packers lead series - 27 wins, 16 losses

Last game - 11/28/16 - Packers 27 - Eagles 13

Packers Offense vs Eagles Defense?  Look for another up & down game!  Eagles D-line
is still formidable!  Linebackers active & D-backs are hurting, best corner, Darby is out.

Packers Defense vs Eagles Offense?  More of the same!  Petine's D will confuse Went!  But
Wentz is a young Favre!  He will make plays, but not enough!

Score, somewhere around 24-13 Packers!

And, Packer Buddies will be there!

Packer Improve To 3 & 0, With 27 to 16 Win Over Broncos!

Most Packer fans would have been thrilled to be 3 & 0 going into week 4!  New coach, new players, and 2nd year GM.  A VERY young coach, unproven & a young GM, unproven!  But, as the 2109 season unfolds, a new feeling is permeating the locker room.  What I have noticed?

1 - Press conferences & interviews of players are different!  Of course, 3 wins & 0 losses help!  But, the GM & Head Coach actually answer the questions.

2 - New leadership & a new feeling on defense.  The "Smith" boys are awesome leaders, both on & off the field!  And, the back up the talk with BIG plays!  Za'Darius actually took the entire defense our for dinner & PAID for it - $5,000 check!  Our defensive coach is on his second year and has players with a little swagger!  And, team speed seems faster!  And, they create turnovers!

3 - Offense is slowing coming together.  Running game, Wvers are illiams & Jones are a decent 1-2 punch! Wide receivers are developing behind Adams!  Still not happy with use of tight ends.  And, Aaron Rodgers is scoring enough points to win. (Still unsure if this is the same Rodgers?)

4 - Special teams is better mainly because of JK Scott, our punter.  Still would be nice to see a real return man emerge!

One again, ANY win the the NFL is a good win!  The past three victories have also been against some VERY good defenses!  Bears, Vikings & Broncos!

Next up, the Eagles!  And the Packer Buddies will be there!!!!


Go Pack Go!

Games #3 - Packers vs Broncos

After two big NFC North games, the Packers take on another difficult defense!  What do we
need to win and keep those positive vibes??

1 - Home Game - defend your home field!  In the NFL, to make the playoffs, you need to win
at home!

2 - Aaron Rodgers - protect your QB!  Another defensive line to test the Packers tackles!  So far,
Bakhtiari & Bulaga have been up to the task!  They need to be on top of the game to keep Miller &
Chubb out of the back field!  Also, our rookie left guard Jenkins is getting the start.  Veteran, Taylor
is banged up, but Jenkins had been pushing hard!  My prediction, if Jenkins plays well, you will
be looking at our new left guard!

3 - Valdes-Scantling & Allison step up!  Our #1 receiver, Adams is obvious, teams will begin
to take him out with double teams - time for our #2 & #3 to have BIG games!

4 - Aaron Jones - another 100 yard rising game!

5 - Defense?  Will the early trend continue?  Pressure the QB?  Perry & Matthews who?  Smith & Smith? YES!  Young DB's will be tested!  Flacco, a veteran, Super Bowl winner will not be
rattled - and he has two good receivers!  Win the turnover battle!

6 - Special Teams?  We have had two close games!  That means special teams are critical!
Keep an eye on the return game - we traded Trevor Davis this week(6th round pick from Raiders)
Who will return kicks & punts this game?  By the way, the Packers in two games have not returned a kick.

So, a consistent offense and a defense that is developing an attitude!  Leadership?
Za'Darius Smith took the entire D our for a meal this week & paid for the $5000 bill
by himself!  LEADERSHIP!!

Go
                            Pack
                                                    Go!

Packers - Vikings, The Eye Ball Test!

Living in Pennsylvania, a Packer fan does not always see the game!  The NFL Network with its replays during the week, and recording the game for more analysis is awesome!  And, I love watching a game that I know we won!!!!!

So, tonight I watched the first half!  And, what does my EYE BALL TEST SEE????

1 - Those first 3 drives were AWESOME!!!  What was so good?  They got Adams involved early!  The plays were such, that Adams was allowed to get open without doing it on his own!  Crossing patterns, bootlegs by the QB, well designed plays!  The running plays kept the D on their toes!  Quick hitters, toss sweeps, and the line had a chance to get off the ball and attack the D-line!

2 - In the 2nd quarter, not so much for the O & they were lucky on some calls by the refs!
Big run by RB, Cook, by the Vikes for a 75 yard TD.  Packers Offense sputtered, some penalties
and dropped balls, fumble.  Vikes hit a few long passes.

3 - Overall, a typical NFL game between two GOOD football teams!  When two good teams meet,
the team that played a clean game, wins the turnover battle, has few penalties usually wins!  This
looked like a game between two possible play off teams.

Again, week two looks like a team, the Packers, with possibilities.  Any sport, the key is a team
that improves thought the year, avoids the injury bug, and plays as a team!  Will this be the
Packers year to play winning football?  So far, so good!  Make the playoffs?  So far, so good!

Next up Denver Broncos!  Home! A 12 PM Central Time Game!

Game #2 - Packers 21 - Vikings 13

Good News!  Packer Win - Packers 2 Wins 0 Losses!  Packers 1st Place NFC North!

So, First 3 Possessions

1 - TD
2 - TD
3 - TD

And, Last 11 Possessions

4 - Fumble
5 - Punt
6 - Punt
7 - Downs
8 - Punt
9 - Fumble
10 - Punt
11 - Punt
12 - Punt
13 - Punt
14 - Punt

Whoa!  From Very, Very, Very Good to Incredibly Pathetic!!

But another win!

Other Stats

Minnesota 4 Turnovers & Packers 2 Turnovers  -  GOOD!

Total Yards
Minnesota - Rush - 198 Pass - 230 Total - 428 yards
Packers - Rush - 144 Pass - 209 Total - 353 yards

Vikings win yardage battle!

So what have we learned??

1 - The Packers - Bears - Vikings are VERY close!  All three teams are not perfect!
The Lions, are not bad, and we will see how they match up.  As of today

Packers 2 - 0 - 0
Lions  1 - 0 - 1
Bears 1- 1 - 0
Vikings  1 - 1 - 0

2 - Packers - defense is still playing well.  On TD pass, Alexander could have intercepted it!
Did breakdown at times on the run defense, but, did not give up too many rush TD's.

3 - Packers Offense - started well!  Showed signs of what can be! But, have a way to go!
Jones at running back & Adams at wide receiver are good enough!  Others need to step up and Allison at wide receiver and Williams at running back can be there!

Overall, new coach, new offense, second year defense?  Packer Fans?

Patience Please!

Game #2 - Packers vs Vikings

Another BIG rivalry!  Packers Vikings!

Packers Leads Series - 60-54-3

Last 10 games?  Packers 4 wins - 5 losses -  1 tie
Last 6 games?   Packers 1 win - 4 losses - 1 tie

So, a BAD trend, MUST be broken!

Key, Packer Offense vs Vikings Defense!

Packer Offense, what must improve?

*  Timing of offense, stay away from 1 second left on play clock!  Change speeds, slow down the offense and speed it up!!!

*  Running Game - need over 140 yards!

*  Passing Game - get everyone involved!  Tight Ends!!!  At least 10 receptions & 1 TD!  Wide Receivers, Spread it around & get young receivers involved!  Running backs, safety valve, screen passes, over the middle!

*  No turnovers!

*  NO -  3 & outs!!!

*  Individual Stats
Aaron pass over 300 yards - 2 TDS - no interception
Aaron Jones - over 100 yards
Davante Adams - over 100 yards - 1 TD

More to come in Viking Week!!

Last Look at Packer-Bear Game - The Eye Ball Test?

OK, one last look at the Packer-Bear Game!

The Eye Ball Test!

1 - Packer Defense is Improved!
   Team Speed - Noticeable!
   Tackling - BETTER!
   Young Defensive Backs are for real!
   Sacks - Smith Boys are for real! (Sorry Clay!)
   And, made stops when they had to!!!

2 - Packer Offense - To Early To Tell
   Will give offense time, plus Bears D is good!
   Aaron still holds ball to long!
   Running Game - unknown!
   Wide Receivers - looks like we have something
   Tight Ends - New Head Coach seems to want to use them!
   No Turnovers!

3 - Special Teams
   JK Scott - WOW!  Could we have a Pro Bowl Punter!
   Crosby - still has it!
   Kick & Punt returner - will Davis bust some?

4 - Team Hustle
   Yes!

5 - Overall Organization
  Seemed OK.  Biggest negative offense - seemed too many plays were with 1 second
on the play clock - I blame Aaron
   Body Language of players was good
 
6 - We won Baby!

Next up Vikings!

Packers 10 - Bears 3

Packers win in Chicago!

Packers win to start the 100th year of the NFL Season!

Packers win with the Bears rolling out the '85 Bears!

Packers win with a great defense!

Packers win!

In the NFL, every win is BIG!  16 games in the season, that is it!  So, a win, NO MATTER
what the score, the team you are playing, or the time of the year, a WIN is big!

Now, what about the game?  I always like to look at the drives:

Packer Offensive Drives
1 - 3 plays - PUNT
2 - 3 plays - PUNT
3 - 3 plays - PUNT
4 - 4 plays - 74 Yards Touchdown
5 - 8 plays - 22 Yards - 2 First Downs
6 - 6 plays - 19 Yards - 1 First Down
7 - 2 plays - End of Half
8 - 4 plays - 1 Yard - 1 First Down by Penalty
9 - 3 plays - PUNT
10 - 7 plays - 25 Yards - 2 First Downs
11 - 10 plays - 73 Yards Field Goal
12 - 3 plays - PUNT
13 - 2 plays - End of Game

Packer Offense
13 series & 2 really do NOT count - End of Half, End of Game
2 - Series DO NOT COUNT

So, we are down to 11.

2 of 11 drives were scoring Drives.  Against a VERY GOOD DEFENSE!
We still need more scores down the road this season!  Say, 20 - 24 points.

5 of the 11 3 & OUT - PUNTS!
This is not what we want.  1st downs!  Flip field position!  Run clock!

4 of the 11 drives had a least one first down.  A Packer Goal should be
NO 3 & OUTS!  1st Downs are a GOOD thing!

Packer Defense
12 Series

3 Series - 3 & Outs - Need more of these!
1 Series ended in 4th Down stop

8 Series ended in a Punt!  This is awesome!

1 Series ended in interception - maybe 2-3 a game as a goal?

1 - Series ended in a score - just a Field Goal - no touchdowns!

So, we must be happy with the defense & be encouraged by the fact this
is the first year in the new offense, first year head coach.

And, our punter!  Whoa baby, what a night! 9 Punts, 47.6 average.  Longest
punt - 63 yards.  5 Punts inside the 20.  When was the last time we had an
All-Pro punter?

Enjoy the Win!

Go Pack Go!

Packers vs Bears, First a Look at The Injury Report

If you have been a Packer Fan, if you have been reading this blog, you know the Packer players
get hurt!  They miss games!  The miss seasons!  So, what does the injury report look like for the
Packers vs Bears?

Packers
Montravius Adams - Groin
Fadol Brown - Calf
Oren Burks - Chest
Kenny Clark - Ankle
Jimmy Graham - Finger
Ka'dar Hollman - Neck
Josh Jackson - Achilles
Aaron Jones - Hamstring
Kevin King - Hamstring
Tyler Lancaster - Ankle
Cole Madison - Ankle
Blake Martinez - Back
Will Redmund - Ankle
Darrius Shepherd - Hamstring
Danny Vitale - Calf
Jamaal Williams - Hamstring
Alex Light - Wrist
Tramon Williams - Knee

Bears
Rashaad Coward - Elbow
Trey Burton - Groin
Bilal Nichols - Knee

Are you keeping score  Packers 19 - Bears 3

Either the Packers are SUPER honest & report EVERYTHING or....
The Bears are SUPER dishonest and report NOTHING!

Or, what the heck are the Packers doing?????

Hamstring?  As a retired track coach, this is the sprinters nightmare!!
Bears 0 - Packers 4
And, the past few years, I have noticed many hamstring issues!!!  Stretching?  Weight
Training issues??  Something is NOT right!

This to this Packer fan is a BIG ISSUE!

Will The Packers of 2019 Have A Top Ten Defense?

To be a legit playoff team you need a defense!  The offense may stumble, the weather ALWAYS turns colder, and, usually at the end of most NFL games you need a defensive stop!  What will this version of the Green Bay Packers look like??

Packers are in year 2 of the Mike Pettine Era.  We have moved on from Clay Matthews & Nick Perry.  We have dumped Ha Ha Clinton-Dixx (will miss that name) and Josh Jones (he didn't want to be here anyway!)  And, Mike Daniels & his leadership is gone, will miss that guy!

And, now, the 25 defensive players on this years 53 man roster:

(FIRST, a trade!  Today, the Packers traded for an inside linebacker, BJ Goodson.  Looks like they could put James Crawford on waivers.)

Packer Defense   (25 players)
Defensive Ends (4)
Dean Lowry   6'6"   296 lbs   Northwestern    Year 4
Montravious Adams   6'4"  304 lbs  Auburn   Year 3
Fadol Brown   6'4"   282 lbs   Mississippi   Year 2
Kingsley Keke   6'3"   288 lbs   Texas A&M   Rookie

Defensive Tackles (2)
Kenny Clark   6'3"   314 lbs   UCLA   Year 3
Tyler Lancaster   6'3"   313 lbs   Northwestern   Year 2


As defensive lines go, this team looks very average.  Kenny Clark may be an All Pro
very soon and is an athlete!  Dean Lowry made a jump last year, needs another this year!
Adams & Lancaster could also make a step up yo better than average & had good years last
year.  New guy, Kingsley would be a pleasant surprise as a rookie!

Inside Linebacker (4)
Blake Martinez   6'2"   232 lbs   Stanford   Year 4
Ty Summers   6'1"   241 lbs   Texas Christian   Rookie
Oren Burks   6'3"   233 lbs    Vanderbilt   Year 2
BJ Goodson   6'1"   250 lbs   Clemson   Year 4

Our biggest weakness!  In desperation, a late trade for Goodson with the Giants.  Martinez,
without question is the leader.  Smart players from Stanford in year four was in the top 5 in the
NFL in total tackles for the year!  Ty Summers is green(Packer Green), and flies around the field.
Oren Burks is injured and should be our #2, ready to have a breakout season?

Outside Linebacker (4)
Za'Darius Smith   6'4"   272 lbs   Kentucky   Year 5
Preston Smith   6'5"   265 lbs   Mississippi State   Year 5
Rashan Gary   6'5"   277 lbs   Michigan   Rookie
Kyler Fackrell   6'5"   245 lbs   Utah State   Year 4

A new era?  Pick went out and got two free agents - Smith & Smith.  The Packers need
a difference maker, a spark plug!  This needs to come from Smith & Smith!  Packers took
a chance on Rashan Gary, a free athlete!  Will we have a future all pro here??

Cornerbacks (7)
Jaire Alexander   5'10"   196 lbs   Louisville   Year 2
Kevin King   6'3"   200 lbs   Washington   Year 3
Tramon Williams   5'11"   191 lbs   Louisiana Tech    Year 13
Josh Jackson   6'   196 lös   Iowa    Year 2
Tony Brown   6'   199 lbs   Alabama   Year 2
Chad Sullivan   5'11"   189 lbs   Georgia State   Year 2
Ka'dar Hollman   6'   196 lös   Toledo   Rookie

Safety (4)
Adrian Amos  6'   214 lbs   Penn State   Year 5
Darnell Savage   5'11"   198 lbs   Maryland   Rookie
Raven Greene   5'11"    193 lbs    James Madison   Year 2
Will Redmund  5'11"   186 lbs   Mississippi State   Year 4

Here we go!  Going out on a limb and saying, our strength begins here on defense!  Young,
athletic, talented?  As I keep saying, the Packer scouts & leaders need to hit a few home runs
in the draft!  Alexander, King, Savage, and free agent Amos!  The future looks GOOD!!!  Depth,
Greene, Jackson, and veteran Williams.  Looks solid to me!

Top Ten Defense - WE NEED IT!!!!

Packers Have Their 53 Man Roster!

Summer practice is over!  Those EXCITING pre-season games are history!  HOORAY!

Now, what does the 53 man roster look like & what can we expect??

Tonight I will begin with the offense - 25 players.

Quartebacks (2)
   Aaron Rodgers   6'2"  225 lbs  California  Year 15
   Tim Boyle  6'4"  232 lbs  Eastern Kentucky  Year 2

Aaron.  Year 15 & one Super Bowl!  He NEEDS more, at least 2!  So, of course #1
Stay Healthy!  Does he still have it.  Last couple of years do not seem to show it.  Was
the McCarthy-Rodgers partnership that toxic?  They always said NO, I say YES.  Just
as a fan, body language, interviews, facial expressions to me indicated a struggle.  So. my
prediction, if they win a couple early, great things to come.  If they go 0-2, watch out!
Physically, we have not seen Aaron on the field, watch closely this Thursday!

Tim Boyle.  One issue the last 4-5 years, if Aaron was out we had NO chance.  In the
pre-season, Boyle looked good, but only time will tell!  He has the size, the arm strength, but
in the regular season????

Wide Receivers (6)
   Davante Adams   6'1"  215lbs  Fresno State  Year 6
   Marquez Valdes-Scantling   6'4"  206 lbs   South Florida  Year 2
   Geronimo Allison  6'3"  202 lbs   Illinois   Year 4
   Jake Kumerow   6'4"   209 lbs   Wisconsin-Whitewater  Year 2
   Trevor Davis   6'1"  188 lbs   California   Year 4
   Darius Shepherd   5'11"   186 lbs   North Dakota State   Year Rookie

We have an All-Pro type of receiver in Davante, now, can the 5 others get open & catch the
football?  First, love the size of these receivers.  Second, they seem to have plenty of speed.  And,
Kumerow looks like a "Jordy" type - a play maker.  Trevor Davis is a big play ready to happen!
Valdes-Scantling  size & speed!  Geronimo has an AWESOME name and was looking good
at the beginning of the season last year, before injury!  And, new kid on the block, Shepherd
has some speed!  Now, can they make Aaron happy??  Again, Bear game is a start!

Tight Ends (4)
   Jimmy Graham   6'7"   265 lbs   Miami   Year 10
   Mercedes Lewis   6'6"  267 lbs   UCLA   Year 14
   Robert Tonyan   6'5"   237 lbs   Indiana State   Year 2
   Jace Sternberger   6'4"   251 lbs   Texas A&M   Year Rookie

Jimmy Graham, what is left in your tank???  Last few years, NOT so much.  Mercedes,
same question big guy!  Tonyan has looked good.  Rookie, Jace Sternberger - unknown.
Looks like, in the red zone, Graham & Lewis, run 10 yards, turn around, catch the ball!
My questions, can the crew run the seems, get over the middle.  NEED THESE GUYS!

Offensive Line (9)
   David Bakhtiari   6'4"   310 lbs   Colorado   Year 7
   Brian Bulaga   6'5"   314 lbs   Iowa  Year 10
   Alex Light   6'5"   309 lbs   Richmond   Year 2
   Corey Linsley   6'3"   301 lbs   Ohio State   Year 6
   Lucas Patrick   6'3"   313 lbs  Duke   Year 3
   Lane Taylor   6'3"   324 lbs   Oklahoma St   Year 7
   Billy Turner   6'5"   310 lbs   North Dakota State   Year 6
   Cole Madison   6'5"   308 lbs   Wisconsin   Year 1
   Elgton Jenkins   6'5"   311 lbs   Mississippi St   Year Rookie

This to me is the KEY!!  In the years we had consistent, no injuries line play, we were
awesome!!  So, BIG GUYS - stay healthy & protect Aaron!!!  Bakhtiari - All Pro, Bulaga,
STAY HEALTHY,  Taylor, you need to play well, rookie Jenkins breathing down you neck,
Billy Turner, new guy adds some swagger & Corey at center, All Pro recognition?

Running Backs - (3)  & Full Back (1)
   Aaron Jones  5'9"  209 lbs   Texas El-Paso  Year 3
   Jamaal Williams   6'  213 lbs  Brgham Young   Year 3
   Dexter Williams   5'11"   212 lbs   Notre Dame   Year Rookie

Possible break out year for Aaron Jones!  Do not get caught speeding with marijuana
in your car!  Williams & Williams pound out yards!!!  Need a 1000 rusher & a break away
threat!!!

There we are, 25 players!  This offense needs to be a TOP FIVE OFFENSE this year!!!

Goals
MVP - Aaron Rodgers in the hunt
1000 yard rusher - Aaron Jones
1200 yard Receiver - Davante Adams
Jimmy Graham - 15 TD's!
Win the turnover battle 12 of 16 games!
STAY HEALTHY!

The Race to 53!

The next few days are going to be critical for many NFL players - 32 teams, around 90 on each team, somewhere close to 2880 people whose lives are on hold?  Well, some of those 2880 are safe?  What players on the Packers are safe?

Countdown:
1 - QB, Aaron Rodgers
2 - C, Corey Linsley
3 - G, Billy Turner
4 - G, Lane Taylor
5 - G, Elgton Jenkins (draft pick)
6 - T, David Bakhtiari
7 - T, Brian Bulaga
8 - TE, Jimmy Graham
9 - WR, Davante Adams
10 - WR, Geronimo Allison
11 - WR, Jake Kumerow
12 - WR, Marquez Valdes-Scantling
13 - RB, Aaron Jones
14 - RB, Jamaal Williams
15 - FB, Danny Vitale
16 - NT, Kenny Clark
17 - DE, Dean Lowry
18 - DE, Montravious Adams
19 - OLB, Preston Smith
20 - OLB, Za'Darius Smith
21 - ILB, Blake Martinez
22 - ILB, Oren Burke
23 - CB, Jaire Alexander
24 - CB, Kevin King
25 - S, Adran Amos
26 - S, Darnell Savage (draft pick)
27 - S, Raven Greene
28 - OLB, Rashan Gary (draft pick)
29 - TE, Jace Sternberger (draft Pick)
30 - DT, Kingsley Keke (draft pick)
31 - CB, Ka'Dar Hollman (draft pick)
32 - RB, Dexter Williams (draft pick)
33 - ILB, Ty Summers (draft pick)
34 - LS, Hunter Bradley
35 - P, JK Scott
36 - TE, Robert Tonyan
37 - DT, Tyler Lancaster
38 - CB, Josh Jackson
39 - OLB, Kyler Fackrell
40 - K, Sam Ficken (I just have a feeling)
41 - WR, Trevor Davis
OK,  12 players & some may be other team cuts!  I quick list of possibilities:

TE - Lewis, QB - Boyle, DL - Brown, CB - Tony Brown, ILB - Crawford, WR - Lazard,
WR - Shepherd, S - Campbell, OL - Patrick, OL - McCray, ILB - Sheldon, CB - Williams

Watch closely & let us see who is on the team next week when the Packers BEAT the Bears!!