Any way you want to look at it, the bye week offered the Packers the chance to clean up and get ready for the second half of their season.
Coach Mike McCarthy often refers to his football program as a house, always emphasizing good housekeeping that includes proper execution and minimal penalties.
Fresh off the birth of his daughter Gabrielle this past Wednesday, McCarthy was hard at work studying his own team, trying to clean up his house a little bit as the team looks forward to a matchup with Tennessee this coming weekend.
“I thought we got some quality work out of it,” McCarthy said on Monday referring to the bye week. “It's always good to go through and clean your house, in a sense, a little more thoroughly than you do on a weekly basis…It's staying in tune with the identity of your football team.”
McCarthy had an opportunity to look at the team’s penalties through seven games. While the Packers improved greatly in that category during the weeks leading up to the bye, there are still a number of factors to look into. McCarthy separates the penalties into two categories.
“You have pre-snap penalties—that’s the category we feel it's a mental mistake…Those are unacceptable, and that's part of our practice structure,” McCarthy said in reference to false start and encroachment penalties. “And then you have combative penalties, and you really look at them two different ways. Is it poor judgment, was it improper technique, or was it a judgment call? That's the way we look at them, and we correct them accordingly.”
Since the Packers improved greatly in that area leading up to the week off, there were questions as to whether or not this was a good time for the Packers’ bye. They had just won consecutive games and seemed to have built up some momentum. Still, considering Green Bay’s injury situation, there was no better time for it.
Going into the bye week, the Packers were playing with two backups in the defensive backfield. They were rotating three players at defensive tackle and plugged a rookie in at defensive end to compensate for injuries on the outside of the line as well. On the offensive side of the football, the Packers were unable to employ their five wide receiver set in the first seven games, thanks to various injuries, the most recent of which being James Jones’ knee. And while he managed to play superbly, Aaron Rodgers was nursing a sore shoulder that was obviously not getting better by throwing the ball.
“I thought this was a very good time for a bye week for us. Because we needed to get healthy, and it looks like we've achieved that on most fronts,” McCarthy said.
McCarthy was pleased with the effort his players put into getting healthy. One player who stayed in Green Bay during the bye week was defensive tackle Justin Harrell, fresh off the PUP list and hoping to see his first playing time of the season this Sunday.
“The speed of the game is so much faster from practice to the game,” Harrell said about getting back into the swing of football. “Just being out there practicing, it’s still a little fast for me, so I’m just trying to get that down and just get my reaction time down.”
Harrell said he felt good after going through a week of practice leading up to the Colts game, but the coaching staff made a decision to give him one more week. He felt as though he benefited from the time off, and it gave him some extra time to work through the soreness that comes with using all of his muscles again.
With players like Harrell ready to go, the Packers were able to survive a tough stretch of injuries to go 4-3 through seven games. It is expected that the Packers will continue improve with the return of a number of starters, and that will prove pivotal as Green Bay plays three of it’s next four on the road, including games at AFC South leading Jacksonville, Minnesota and on Monday night in New Orleans. Their one home game mixed in there is against the Bears, a team that handed the Packers two of their three losses last year. Bears coach Lovie Smith is 6-2 against the Packers in his career. The Packers have a tough road in front of them. From now on, there is no rest for the weary, and staying healthy will be key to the Packers run to the playoffs.
10.27.2008
10.20.2008
Colts @ Packers Recep - Defense steps up, leads Packers to victory
The Packers defense matched the Colts offense in points scored, and Green Bay rolled to a big victory over the Colts at Lambeau Fieldon Sunday afternoon.
Despite playing at home and coming into the game with as many wins as the Colts, the Packers were considered to be the underdog in week 7. Indianapolis was coming off a great game against the Baltimore Ravens, but the Colts offense was unable to get it going against a Packers defense determined to prevent a third consecutive home loss.
Green Bay was able to avoid the big play, giving up only two plays of 20 or more yards. The emphasis by Coach Mike McCarthy during the week—and really since he arrived—was fundamentals, and the Packers executed their gameplan well. “I thought it was a very well played game,” McCarthy said after the game. “And I thought our players played smart today for the most part.”
Playing smart included getting of the field on third down on defense and maintaining possession of the ball on offense. Midway through the second quarter the Packers went for it on fourth down in their own territory and converted, going on to score their second touchdown of the afternoon to cap off an 11 play 89 yard drive that ate up nearly seven minutes of the clock. The Packers offensive efficiency also allowed the Colts to run just 20 plays in the first half and have the ball for only 26 minutes in the game.
The Packers were also aided by their two defensive scores in the second half. Free safety Nick Collins was able to secure a deflected pass intended to Reggie Wayne and take it back 62 yards in the other direction. Collins used good blocking from his defensive teammates, along with a nice cutback move that split Indy pursuers to get into the end zone. It was Collins’ fourth interception on the year and the second he has taken back for a score.
The second interception return was a well-played ball by Aaron Rouse. The Colts were in the midst of one of their better drives of the afternoon and had marched 74 yards to reach the Green Bay six yard line. Manning was looking to receiver Anthony Gonzalez to cut the Packers’ lead to 13 points, but Rouse read the play beautifully and stepped in front of the pass, taking it back 99 yards to tie a Lambeau Field record for an interception return.
Brandon Chillar also played a nice game against the Colts, leading the team with nine tackles. Chillar played more in Sunday’s game than in any other game this year, largely due to his pass-coverage ability. The Packers remained in a nickel defense for a large part of the game, using Chillar and Nick Barnett throughout.
On offense, the Packers, similar to last week against the Seahawks, did not put up the most impressive numbers. Aaron Rodgers’ 186 yards passing and Ryan Grant’s 3.4 yard average are not exactly eye-openers, but Rodgers played within himself and gave what the Colts gave him, completing short pass after short pass to move the offense downfield. Combined with a running game that did enough to keep the offense on the field, the Packers were able to control the clock and keep the game at their own tempo. Rodgers completed 75% of his passes, including one touchdown, without throwing an interception. Grant’s 105 yard day was the first one hundred-yard effort of the year for him and an indication that the offense is moving in the right direction. With the bye week to heal up, the Packers can look forward to a matchup in Tennessee with the currently undefeated Titans.
Report Card:
Offense: A- - Ball control and game management was the name of the game on Sunday. The Packers were able to grind the clock to keep Peyton Manning and the Colts offense off the field. The offense did not turn the ball over and played within the game plan without getting frustrated with the lack of a big play.
Defense: A – It is not easy to hold Peyton Manning without a touchdown pass. To hold Reggie Wayne and Marvin Harrison to two catches a piece is even more impressive. The line got consistent pressure on Manning, forcing him to throw to a receiving corps facing five defensive backs all night. Adding 14 points to the day’s total didn’t hurt either.
Special teams: B – Mason Crosby missed a field goal kicking into the wind but was otherwise accurate on field goals and point after attempts. He uncharacteristically kicked the ball out of bounds in the first quarter but added two touchbacks to his 2008 resume, kicking with the wind. Will Blackmon fumbled once and muffed another punt. Derrick Frost kicked over 50 yards on each of his two fourth quarter punts as he continues to improve this season.
Overall: A- – The Packers won time of possession and the turnover battle, and it is no surprise the result of this game was a W as well. It was perhaps their best all-around performance of the year, but there are certainly facets that can be improved. The running game needs to jump up above four yards per carry, for example. Still, McCarthy has to be satisfied with the energy his team brought and their ability to come up with big plays when it counted.
Despite playing at home and coming into the game with as many wins as the Colts, the Packers were considered to be the underdog in week 7. Indianapolis was coming off a great game against the Baltimore Ravens, but the Colts offense was unable to get it going against a Packers defense determined to prevent a third consecutive home loss.
Green Bay was able to avoid the big play, giving up only two plays of 20 or more yards. The emphasis by Coach Mike McCarthy during the week—and really since he arrived—was fundamentals, and the Packers executed their gameplan well. “I thought it was a very well played game,” McCarthy said after the game. “And I thought our players played smart today for the most part.”
Playing smart included getting of the field on third down on defense and maintaining possession of the ball on offense. Midway through the second quarter the Packers went for it on fourth down in their own territory and converted, going on to score their second touchdown of the afternoon to cap off an 11 play 89 yard drive that ate up nearly seven minutes of the clock. The Packers offensive efficiency also allowed the Colts to run just 20 plays in the first half and have the ball for only 26 minutes in the game.
The Packers were also aided by their two defensive scores in the second half. Free safety Nick Collins was able to secure a deflected pass intended to Reggie Wayne and take it back 62 yards in the other direction. Collins used good blocking from his defensive teammates, along with a nice cutback move that split Indy pursuers to get into the end zone. It was Collins’ fourth interception on the year and the second he has taken back for a score.
The second interception return was a well-played ball by Aaron Rouse. The Colts were in the midst of one of their better drives of the afternoon and had marched 74 yards to reach the Green Bay six yard line. Manning was looking to receiver Anthony Gonzalez to cut the Packers’ lead to 13 points, but Rouse read the play beautifully and stepped in front of the pass, taking it back 99 yards to tie a Lambeau Field record for an interception return.
Brandon Chillar also played a nice game against the Colts, leading the team with nine tackles. Chillar played more in Sunday’s game than in any other game this year, largely due to his pass-coverage ability. The Packers remained in a nickel defense for a large part of the game, using Chillar and Nick Barnett throughout.
On offense, the Packers, similar to last week against the Seahawks, did not put up the most impressive numbers. Aaron Rodgers’ 186 yards passing and Ryan Grant’s 3.4 yard average are not exactly eye-openers, but Rodgers played within himself and gave what the Colts gave him, completing short pass after short pass to move the offense downfield. Combined with a running game that did enough to keep the offense on the field, the Packers were able to control the clock and keep the game at their own tempo. Rodgers completed 75% of his passes, including one touchdown, without throwing an interception. Grant’s 105 yard day was the first one hundred-yard effort of the year for him and an indication that the offense is moving in the right direction. With the bye week to heal up, the Packers can look forward to a matchup in Tennessee with the currently undefeated Titans.
Report Card:
Offense: A- - Ball control and game management was the name of the game on Sunday. The Packers were able to grind the clock to keep Peyton Manning and the Colts offense off the field. The offense did not turn the ball over and played within the game plan without getting frustrated with the lack of a big play.
Defense: A – It is not easy to hold Peyton Manning without a touchdown pass. To hold Reggie Wayne and Marvin Harrison to two catches a piece is even more impressive. The line got consistent pressure on Manning, forcing him to throw to a receiving corps facing five defensive backs all night. Adding 14 points to the day’s total didn’t hurt either.
Special teams: B – Mason Crosby missed a field goal kicking into the wind but was otherwise accurate on field goals and point after attempts. He uncharacteristically kicked the ball out of bounds in the first quarter but added two touchbacks to his 2008 resume, kicking with the wind. Will Blackmon fumbled once and muffed another punt. Derrick Frost kicked over 50 yards on each of his two fourth quarter punts as he continues to improve this season.
Overall: A- – The Packers won time of possession and the turnover battle, and it is no surprise the result of this game was a W as well. It was perhaps their best all-around performance of the year, but there are certainly facets that can be improved. The running game needs to jump up above four yards per carry, for example. Still, McCarthy has to be satisfied with the energy his team brought and their ability to come up with big plays when it counted.
10.18.2008
Colts @ Packers Preview - Pack hopes to slow down Manning, Colts
Don't let the slow start fool you. The Indianapolis Colts will pose a significant challenge to the Green Bay Packers this weekend.
After stumbling to a 1-2 start and scoring just 52 points over their first three games, the Colts have bounced back after their week 4 bye to score 31 points in each of two games. Their first 31 point effort was admittedly a bit of an aberration. The Colts scored three times in the last five minutes against the Houston Texans, aided by two turnovers by quarterback Sage Rosenfels. However, last week's game against the Baltimore Ravens was no fluke. Instead, it was an indication that the Colts might be getting their groove back. Before traveling to Indy, the Ravens were giving up just 14 points per game, but Manning and the Colts more than doubled that, rolling to an easy 31-3 victory. Manning threw for 271 yards and three scores without throwing an interception.
Colts running back Joseph Addai left the game early last week and is not expected to play on Sunday. As has been the case with the Packers, the Colts have been plagued by various injuries on both offense and defense, and their banged up offensive line undoubtedly played a role in the Colts slow start. It is also worth noting that Manning sat out the entire preseason with a knee injury, so it may be that he is now hitting his groove after having a few games to get into football mode once again.
On the Packers end, they need to simply play football. Coach Mike McCarthy does not like to get into changing schemes too much based on the opponent, believing that proper execution of the game plan will help beat most any team, particularly an opponent like the Colts, whose quarterback makes many adjustments at the line.
“It really goes back to the game of football. We need to make sure that what we set out to do with our call, the adjustments within every call, offense and defense alike, that we're lined up properly,” McCarthy stated when asked about the way Manning’s audibles. “We cannot let the opponent dictate how we're going to play the game, and that's a big part of it.”
The Packers are hoping to be aided by the return of defensive tackle Justin Harrell who is eligible for his first week of play after starting the season on the physically unable to perform list. Harrell participated fully in practice this past week, but the Packers had not made a decision on whether or not he would play. Given that the Packers have been rotating three players at defensive tackle (Ryan Pickett, Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole), the additional man would go a long way to keeping the middle of the line fresh towards the end of the game.
The defensive backfield was also hoping to get a boost from safety Atari Bigy this week, but it looks as though his return will have to wait until after the bye week. Cornerback Al Harris may also return at that time.
In the meantime, the Packers will continue to rely on Aaron Rouse at the strong safety position and Tramon Williams opposite Charles Woodson at cornerback. Rouse has filled in serviceably for Green Bay. He has not made any particularly spectacular plays, but he has avoided the kind of error that could turn a football game. For his part, Williams has had an impressive three games as a starter, intercepting a pass in each of his starts while keeping his man in check. Both he and Woodson will face formidable opponents as perennial Pro Bowlers Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne line up across the line of scrimmage.
If the Packers can play within themselves and avoid getting locked into Manning’s signals at the line, they should not have a problem hanging with a team that put up 45 points against them last time they met in 2004, a game they lost by 14 points in Indy. In that game, Manning three five touchdown passes and no interceptions. The Packers will look to add to their 11 interceptions on the year and end the Colts winning streak at two.
After stumbling to a 1-2 start and scoring just 52 points over their first three games, the Colts have bounced back after their week 4 bye to score 31 points in each of two games. Their first 31 point effort was admittedly a bit of an aberration. The Colts scored three times in the last five minutes against the Houston Texans, aided by two turnovers by quarterback Sage Rosenfels. However, last week's game against the Baltimore Ravens was no fluke. Instead, it was an indication that the Colts might be getting their groove back. Before traveling to Indy, the Ravens were giving up just 14 points per game, but Manning and the Colts more than doubled that, rolling to an easy 31-3 victory. Manning threw for 271 yards and three scores without throwing an interception.
Colts running back Joseph Addai left the game early last week and is not expected to play on Sunday. As has been the case with the Packers, the Colts have been plagued by various injuries on both offense and defense, and their banged up offensive line undoubtedly played a role in the Colts slow start. It is also worth noting that Manning sat out the entire preseason with a knee injury, so it may be that he is now hitting his groove after having a few games to get into football mode once again.
On the Packers end, they need to simply play football. Coach Mike McCarthy does not like to get into changing schemes too much based on the opponent, believing that proper execution of the game plan will help beat most any team, particularly an opponent like the Colts, whose quarterback makes many adjustments at the line.
“It really goes back to the game of football. We need to make sure that what we set out to do with our call, the adjustments within every call, offense and defense alike, that we're lined up properly,” McCarthy stated when asked about the way Manning’s audibles. “We cannot let the opponent dictate how we're going to play the game, and that's a big part of it.”
The Packers are hoping to be aided by the return of defensive tackle Justin Harrell who is eligible for his first week of play after starting the season on the physically unable to perform list. Harrell participated fully in practice this past week, but the Packers had not made a decision on whether or not he would play. Given that the Packers have been rotating three players at defensive tackle (Ryan Pickett, Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole), the additional man would go a long way to keeping the middle of the line fresh towards the end of the game.
The defensive backfield was also hoping to get a boost from safety Atari Bigy this week, but it looks as though his return will have to wait until after the bye week. Cornerback Al Harris may also return at that time.
In the meantime, the Packers will continue to rely on Aaron Rouse at the strong safety position and Tramon Williams opposite Charles Woodson at cornerback. Rouse has filled in serviceably for Green Bay. He has not made any particularly spectacular plays, but he has avoided the kind of error that could turn a football game. For his part, Williams has had an impressive three games as a starter, intercepting a pass in each of his starts while keeping his man in check. Both he and Woodson will face formidable opponents as perennial Pro Bowlers Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne line up across the line of scrimmage.
If the Packers can play within themselves and avoid getting locked into Manning’s signals at the line, they should not have a problem hanging with a team that put up 45 points against them last time they met in 2004, a game they lost by 14 points in Indy. In that game, Manning three five touchdown passes and no interceptions. The Packers will look to add to their 11 interceptions on the year and end the Colts winning streak at two.
10.12.2008
Packers @ Seahawks Recap - Packers end losing streak in Seattle
The Packers scored in each quarter and held the Seattle Seahawks to 177 yards from scrimmage, rolling to a much-needed victory at Qwest Field.
Although neither coach would have publicly referred to this game as a must-win, the stakes were obviously very high as the loser would walk away with four losses already in the middle of October. Given the state of the divisions these two teams play in, the loss will not end playoff hopes for the Seahawks, but it certainly makes things much more difficult. The Packers, on the other hand, averted a fourth loss and jumped into a three-way tie for first place in the NFC North. The Bears and Vikings are also 3-3 after week 6.
Playing with a depleted defense and a quarterback with a bum shoulder, the Packers were able to deal with a similarly beleaguered Seahawks team in Seattle. Jeremy Thompson filled in well at right end for Michael Montgomery, out with an ankle injury. Tramon Williams was much better in coverage this week and even intercepted a Charlie Frye pass in the fourth quarter, stopping a Seahawks drive that moved into Green Bay territory and effectively sealing a win for the Packers.
Overall the defense did what they needed to against a third string quarterback with a beat-up receiving corps. Frye completed 12 of 23 passes for just 83 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Frye’s first touchdown pass completed a short drive after an Aaron Rodgers fumble gave the Seahawks the ball on the Packers 32 yard line midway through the second quarter. The Seahawks would not score again until the middle of the fourth quarter, and then only against a prevent defense that allowed enough short passes over the middle to create a sustained drive.
The offense grinded out over 300 yards, including 90 yards rushing on 33 carries for tailback Ryan Grant. The 2.7 yard average is not the most impressive statistic on paper, but the number of attempts demonstrated a commitment to the run and kept the Seahawks defense honest throughout the course of the game. In order to have success in the future, the Packers will need to stay committed to the run. As Grant gets healthier, those short gains will eventually turn into big plays that can change a game. It also allows the Packers to control the clock. Green Bay held the ball for nearly 38 minutes on Sunday, wearing down the defense and giving the offense plenty of rest.
Such rest was particularly important for Aaron Rodgers. As he warmed up before the game, Rodgers was visibly in pain when throwing the ball. But if anyone had any questions about his grit and durability, Rodgers showed that he has what it takes to play week in and week out in the NFL. Rodgers took a big hit from defensive end Patrick Kerney, pushed through a goal line pile not once but twice to get into the endzone before half time and fired a 45 yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings in the third quarter. He also did not throw an interception, something that proved costly against the Buccaneers and Falcons. It was not his greatest performance on paper, but it certainly went a long way to instilling his teammates’ confidence in him.
The Packers allowed only two plays over 20 yards (one being a 27 yard scramble by Frye in the fourth quarter) and won the turnover battle by forcing two and giving up only one. Also instrumental to the Packers success was the field position battle. No, the Packers did not have tremendous field positions for themselves throughout the game, but they also did not give their opponent a short field as much as they had in the past couple weeks. Seattle had a field shorter than 65 yards only once. This made it much easier on the weakened defense to play effectively despite the injuries.
Report Card:
Offense: B+ - The Packers will have better games statistically this year, but it was the kind of effort that would make an old school coach proud. Thirty-three rushing attempts and 37-plus minutes of ball control. The Seahawks injuries have not carried into the defense, so it was certainly not a cakewalk for the Packers in scoring 27 points.
Defense: A- – Forcing five three and outs and holding the Seahawks under 200 yards is not a complete surprise considering Seattle’s injury situation, but they did what they were supposed to do which is a good sign. The Packers defense will face a test significantly more difficult than Charlie Frye when Peyton Manning and the Colts come to Lambeau next weekend.
Special Teams: B+ - Derrick Frost had four very nice punts, including two the pinned the Seahawks inside the 20. Mason Crosby executed both of his field goal attempts, including a 51 yarder in the fourth quarter that made it a three possession game. Kick- and punt-returner Will Blackmon did not have any huge returns, but he allowed the Packers to have nice field position on most of their drives.
Overall: B+ - Regardless of how good the Seahawks are, Qwest Field is not a fun place to play, and the 17 point lead allowed the Packers to play loose in the fourth quarter. Again, the stats don’t show it, but it was probably one of the most complete games the Packers have played this year. Green Bay executed well throughout the game and had only five penalties for 45 yards.
Although neither coach would have publicly referred to this game as a must-win, the stakes were obviously very high as the loser would walk away with four losses already in the middle of October. Given the state of the divisions these two teams play in, the loss will not end playoff hopes for the Seahawks, but it certainly makes things much more difficult. The Packers, on the other hand, averted a fourth loss and jumped into a three-way tie for first place in the NFC North. The Bears and Vikings are also 3-3 after week 6.
Playing with a depleted defense and a quarterback with a bum shoulder, the Packers were able to deal with a similarly beleaguered Seahawks team in Seattle. Jeremy Thompson filled in well at right end for Michael Montgomery, out with an ankle injury. Tramon Williams was much better in coverage this week and even intercepted a Charlie Frye pass in the fourth quarter, stopping a Seahawks drive that moved into Green Bay territory and effectively sealing a win for the Packers.
Overall the defense did what they needed to against a third string quarterback with a beat-up receiving corps. Frye completed 12 of 23 passes for just 83 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Frye’s first touchdown pass completed a short drive after an Aaron Rodgers fumble gave the Seahawks the ball on the Packers 32 yard line midway through the second quarter. The Seahawks would not score again until the middle of the fourth quarter, and then only against a prevent defense that allowed enough short passes over the middle to create a sustained drive.
The offense grinded out over 300 yards, including 90 yards rushing on 33 carries for tailback Ryan Grant. The 2.7 yard average is not the most impressive statistic on paper, but the number of attempts demonstrated a commitment to the run and kept the Seahawks defense honest throughout the course of the game. In order to have success in the future, the Packers will need to stay committed to the run. As Grant gets healthier, those short gains will eventually turn into big plays that can change a game. It also allows the Packers to control the clock. Green Bay held the ball for nearly 38 minutes on Sunday, wearing down the defense and giving the offense plenty of rest.
Such rest was particularly important for Aaron Rodgers. As he warmed up before the game, Rodgers was visibly in pain when throwing the ball. But if anyone had any questions about his grit and durability, Rodgers showed that he has what it takes to play week in and week out in the NFL. Rodgers took a big hit from defensive end Patrick Kerney, pushed through a goal line pile not once but twice to get into the endzone before half time and fired a 45 yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings in the third quarter. He also did not throw an interception, something that proved costly against the Buccaneers and Falcons. It was not his greatest performance on paper, but it certainly went a long way to instilling his teammates’ confidence in him.
The Packers allowed only two plays over 20 yards (one being a 27 yard scramble by Frye in the fourth quarter) and won the turnover battle by forcing two and giving up only one. Also instrumental to the Packers success was the field position battle. No, the Packers did not have tremendous field positions for themselves throughout the game, but they also did not give their opponent a short field as much as they had in the past couple weeks. Seattle had a field shorter than 65 yards only once. This made it much easier on the weakened defense to play effectively despite the injuries.
Report Card:
Offense: B+ - The Packers will have better games statistically this year, but it was the kind of effort that would make an old school coach proud. Thirty-three rushing attempts and 37-plus minutes of ball control. The Seahawks injuries have not carried into the defense, so it was certainly not a cakewalk for the Packers in scoring 27 points.
Defense: A- – Forcing five three and outs and holding the Seahawks under 200 yards is not a complete surprise considering Seattle’s injury situation, but they did what they were supposed to do which is a good sign. The Packers defense will face a test significantly more difficult than Charlie Frye when Peyton Manning and the Colts come to Lambeau next weekend.
Special Teams: B+ - Derrick Frost had four very nice punts, including two the pinned the Seahawks inside the 20. Mason Crosby executed both of his field goal attempts, including a 51 yarder in the fourth quarter that made it a three possession game. Kick- and punt-returner Will Blackmon did not have any huge returns, but he allowed the Packers to have nice field position on most of their drives.
Overall: B+ - Regardless of how good the Seahawks are, Qwest Field is not a fun place to play, and the 17 point lead allowed the Packers to play loose in the fourth quarter. Again, the stats don’t show it, but it was probably one of the most complete games the Packers have played this year. Green Bay executed well throughout the game and had only five penalties for 45 yards.
10.11.2008
Packers @ Seahawks Preview - Banged up, Packers travel to Seattle to end skid
The Green Bay Packers have lost three consecutive games, already matching their loss total from 2007. One more loss would put the Packers in an unenviable position and may drop them further back in the NFC North after they relinquished first place in the division to the Chicago Bears last weekend.
“I think it's important to just stay on top of what the positives are of the situation that we're in and stay definitely on top of the negatives…Who wants to lose three games in a row?” McCarthy propositioned on Wednesday. “But the important thing is Seattle…They are well coached, so this is a big-time challenge. We can't be sitting here talking about what happened on Sunday…We are about the Seattle Seahawks right now.”
The Packers will be facing a Seattle team struggling just as much as the Packers. The Seahawks have been blasted with injuries this year, including most of their receiving corps and, most recently, quarterback Matt Hasselbeck who may miss the game with a knee injury. He did not practice this week and is listed as questionable on the team’s injury report.
His counterpart for the Packers, quarterback Aaron Rodgers, was also limited in practice to jog throughs and light running. Just like before the Falcons game, Rodgers did not throw in practice all week, but the Packers expect him to start on Sunday. Will he be ready to go?
“As far as Aaron Rodgers' preparation, we did the best we can as far as having him rep at practice,” McCarthy said on Friday. “He's a very conscientious individual, and I'm confident he'll be prepared to play in the game Sunday.”
Rodgers played effectively against the Falcons without practicing the previous week, throwing for over 300 yards and three scores. His elusiveness will play a critical role in ensuring he does not take any big hits that would send him to the bench. Rodgers was sacked twice last week, and it will be important to keep him vertical this week.
Beyond Rodgers’ shoulder, the Packers again face many injuries, mainly on the defensive side of the ball. On offense, the Packers will likely be without James Jones yet again, preventing the Packers from installing their Big Five formation that proved so productive late last year. Green Bay should get fullback Korey Hall back on Sunday.
On the defense, the line is very banged up. With tackle Justin Harrell on the physically unable to perform list for another week and defensive end Cullen Jenkins on injured reserve, the Packers line is further decimated with DE Michael Montgomery doubtful for the game. This will open the door for rookie Jeremy Thompson to step in and gain significant playing time. Coach McCarthy is hopeful that defensive tackle Ryan Pickett will be active for Sunday, but with tendonitis in his knees he may not be extremely effective. All of the weaknesses on the defensive line allow teams to focus on defensive end Aaron Kampmann. The domino effect continues into the depleted secondary, making it difficult for a play like Tramon Williams if the line cannot put pressure on the quarterback. If the Packers hope to walk away with their first win at Qwest Field, they will need solid play from guys who normally wouldn’t be in the starting lineup.
“I think it's important to just stay on top of what the positives are of the situation that we're in and stay definitely on top of the negatives…Who wants to lose three games in a row?” McCarthy propositioned on Wednesday. “But the important thing is Seattle…They are well coached, so this is a big-time challenge. We can't be sitting here talking about what happened on Sunday…We are about the Seattle Seahawks right now.”
The Packers will be facing a Seattle team struggling just as much as the Packers. The Seahawks have been blasted with injuries this year, including most of their receiving corps and, most recently, quarterback Matt Hasselbeck who may miss the game with a knee injury. He did not practice this week and is listed as questionable on the team’s injury report.
His counterpart for the Packers, quarterback Aaron Rodgers, was also limited in practice to jog throughs and light running. Just like before the Falcons game, Rodgers did not throw in practice all week, but the Packers expect him to start on Sunday. Will he be ready to go?
“As far as Aaron Rodgers' preparation, we did the best we can as far as having him rep at practice,” McCarthy said on Friday. “He's a very conscientious individual, and I'm confident he'll be prepared to play in the game Sunday.”
Rodgers played effectively against the Falcons without practicing the previous week, throwing for over 300 yards and three scores. His elusiveness will play a critical role in ensuring he does not take any big hits that would send him to the bench. Rodgers was sacked twice last week, and it will be important to keep him vertical this week.
Beyond Rodgers’ shoulder, the Packers again face many injuries, mainly on the defensive side of the ball. On offense, the Packers will likely be without James Jones yet again, preventing the Packers from installing their Big Five formation that proved so productive late last year. Green Bay should get fullback Korey Hall back on Sunday.
On the defense, the line is very banged up. With tackle Justin Harrell on the physically unable to perform list for another week and defensive end Cullen Jenkins on injured reserve, the Packers line is further decimated with DE Michael Montgomery doubtful for the game. This will open the door for rookie Jeremy Thompson to step in and gain significant playing time. Coach McCarthy is hopeful that defensive tackle Ryan Pickett will be active for Sunday, but with tendonitis in his knees he may not be extremely effective. All of the weaknesses on the defensive line allow teams to focus on defensive end Aaron Kampmann. The domino effect continues into the depleted secondary, making it difficult for a play like Tramon Williams if the line cannot put pressure on the quarterback. If the Packers hope to walk away with their first win at Qwest Field, they will need solid play from guys who normally wouldn’t be in the starting lineup.
10.06.2008
Falcons @ Packers Recap - Injuries, penalties doom Packers
Playing an inferior opponent at home, the Packers were unable to overcome multiple injuries, falling to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday 24-27.
Playing without defensive end Cullen Jenkins, cornerback Al Harris and safety Atari Bigby, the Packers defense made Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan look like a seasoned veteran at Lambeau Field. Ryan led the Falcons on scoring drives on each of their first two possessions, and Atlanta never trailed in getting their third win of the season.
“They started faster than we did,” Coach Mike McCarthy said after the game. “We had points taken off the board there early, and we just didn't overcome our mistakes.”
The points McCarthy are referring to came and went on a 42 yard Mason Crosby field goal midway through the second quarter. Rookie tight end Jermichael Finlay was called for holding, forcing Crosby to kick again. The resulting 53 yard field goal missed right and well short. McCarthy didn’t agree with the call, but it was not the first or last time the Packers were penalized on the day. Green Bay was flagged nine times for 97 yards, a continuing trend that needs to be reversed.
Additionally, the Packers were hindered by a poor special teams play in the fourth quarter. After the Packers tied the game at 17, Atlanta kick returner Jerious Norwood took the ensuing kickoff back to the Green Bay 48. The Falcons were only able to gain 25 yards, but that put them well within field goal range for Jason Elam.
The Packers offense did their part to try to win the game. Racking up over 400 yards of offense, the Green Bay looked much better in sustaining drives and controlling the clock. Ryan Grant had some powerful runs against the Atlanta defense, and Rodgers looked impressive, even with a bum shoulder.
The defense did not play particularly well on Sunday, surrendering over 150 yards of rushing. Particularly disappointing was that the Packers were not able to stop the Falcons on their last possession in the fourth quarter. Any football fan knew the Falcons would try to run the clock out, but the Packers defense was unable to do anything to stop them. Such a basic failure is what McCarthy will continue to emphasize as the Packers move forward.
“It's an everyday challenge. Fundamentals and technique, you're probably tired of hearing about it, but the execution of our football teams needs to improve,” McCarthy said, speaking about the Packers inability to execute on the last drive. “We need to be able to make enough plays or more than enough plays that if we do make a mistake it doesn't factor in the outcome of the game.”
The Packers need to clean up and prepare immediately as they travel to Seattle for week 6.
Report Card:
Offense: B+ - After a week without practice, Aaron Rodgers brought his A-game against the Falcons, throwing for 300 yards and three scores. Ryan Grant looked much better running the ball, but down and long yardage situations prevented the Packers from calling his number as often as they would have liked. The penalties need to be cleaned up.
Defense: C – It is certainly a struggle with the lack of depth on the line and the injuries in the defensive backfield. Atlanta running backs went for 160 yards on Sunday, and Ryan completed 62% of his passes. Improvements in the run defense will help the pass defense out tremendously.
Special teams: B - Packers fans have Derrick Frost on a tight leash, but he has not been terrible. He is, however, lacking consistency. His first punt provided Atlanta with a short field. The Falcons needed only 37 yards to give Jason Elam a 42 yard field goal attempt. Mason Crosby was consistent on kickoffs. Having to kick a 53 yard field goal after a 42 yard field goal is no cakewalk, but Crosby must be more consistent from long distance. He is now 14 of 22 from beyond 40 yards in his career. The kick coverage units played well until the long kickoff return by Norwood in the fourth quarter. These three mistakes played a big role in the outcome of the game.
Playing without defensive end Cullen Jenkins, cornerback Al Harris and safety Atari Bigby, the Packers defense made Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan look like a seasoned veteran at Lambeau Field. Ryan led the Falcons on scoring drives on each of their first two possessions, and Atlanta never trailed in getting their third win of the season.
“They started faster than we did,” Coach Mike McCarthy said after the game. “We had points taken off the board there early, and we just didn't overcome our mistakes.”
The points McCarthy are referring to came and went on a 42 yard Mason Crosby field goal midway through the second quarter. Rookie tight end Jermichael Finlay was called for holding, forcing Crosby to kick again. The resulting 53 yard field goal missed right and well short. McCarthy didn’t agree with the call, but it was not the first or last time the Packers were penalized on the day. Green Bay was flagged nine times for 97 yards, a continuing trend that needs to be reversed.
Additionally, the Packers were hindered by a poor special teams play in the fourth quarter. After the Packers tied the game at 17, Atlanta kick returner Jerious Norwood took the ensuing kickoff back to the Green Bay 48. The Falcons were only able to gain 25 yards, but that put them well within field goal range for Jason Elam.
The Packers offense did their part to try to win the game. Racking up over 400 yards of offense, the Green Bay looked much better in sustaining drives and controlling the clock. Ryan Grant had some powerful runs against the Atlanta defense, and Rodgers looked impressive, even with a bum shoulder.
The defense did not play particularly well on Sunday, surrendering over 150 yards of rushing. Particularly disappointing was that the Packers were not able to stop the Falcons on their last possession in the fourth quarter. Any football fan knew the Falcons would try to run the clock out, but the Packers defense was unable to do anything to stop them. Such a basic failure is what McCarthy will continue to emphasize as the Packers move forward.
“It's an everyday challenge. Fundamentals and technique, you're probably tired of hearing about it, but the execution of our football teams needs to improve,” McCarthy said, speaking about the Packers inability to execute on the last drive. “We need to be able to make enough plays or more than enough plays that if we do make a mistake it doesn't factor in the outcome of the game.”
The Packers need to clean up and prepare immediately as they travel to Seattle for week 6.
Report Card:
Offense: B+ - After a week without practice, Aaron Rodgers brought his A-game against the Falcons, throwing for 300 yards and three scores. Ryan Grant looked much better running the ball, but down and long yardage situations prevented the Packers from calling his number as often as they would have liked. The penalties need to be cleaned up.
Defense: C – It is certainly a struggle with the lack of depth on the line and the injuries in the defensive backfield. Atlanta running backs went for 160 yards on Sunday, and Ryan completed 62% of his passes. Improvements in the run defense will help the pass defense out tremendously.
Special teams: B - Packers fans have Derrick Frost on a tight leash, but he has not been terrible. He is, however, lacking consistency. His first punt provided Atlanta with a short field. The Falcons needed only 37 yards to give Jason Elam a 42 yard field goal attempt. Mason Crosby was consistent on kickoffs. Having to kick a 53 yard field goal after a 42 yard field goal is no cakewalk, but Crosby must be more consistent from long distance. He is now 14 of 22 from beyond 40 yards in his career. The kick coverage units played well until the long kickoff return by Norwood in the fourth quarter. These three mistakes played a big role in the outcome of the game.
10.05.2008
Falcons @ Packers Preview - Packers look to separate themselves from Falcons
Facing a slew of injuries, Green Bay will play host to an Atlanta football team that was supposed to be in a rebuilding year but is sitting at a comfortable 2-2, equal to the Packers in the NFC. In fact, the Packers and Falcons are strikingly similar in their performance thus far. Both teams haven beaten 0-3 Detroit and have a win against a 1-3 team. Green Bay beat Minnesota to start the year, while Atlanta beat up on Kansas City in week 3. Both teams have also lost to Tampa Bay, the loss by Atlanta in week 2 and Green Bay last weekend. Finally, each team has lost a game to a team that is now 3-1, with the Packers loss to Dallas in week 3 and the Falcons falling to the Panthers in week 4.
Each team may also send a rookie quarterback to the field on Sunday. Both have seen their fair share of success at the collegiate level but are relatively inexperienced in the pros. With Aaron Rodgers slotted as a game-time decision with a separated shoulder, it is looking more likely that number two quarterback Matt Flynn may be in charge of the offense this weekend at Lambeau. The Falcons continue to rely on quarterback Matt Ryan for success.
Ryan, a 23 year old rookie taken 3rd overall by Atlanta in this year’s NFL draft, climbed up draft charts during an impressive senior season at Boston College. By the end of the 2007 college football season, he was dubbed the best quarterback in the draft. He has been serviceable thus far for the Falcons.. Ryan has guided the team to two victories mainly by being a game-manager. He threw two interceptions against the Buccaneers in week two but has not turned the ball over otherwise. The Packers will have to be extra cautious against the Falcons, as Ryan has touchdown throws of 62 and 70 yards. Those are his only two scores, so if the Packers can prevent the big play they should be in good shape. Outside of those two passes, Ryan is just 53 of 103 for 537 yards in four games.
The Falcons will surely look to attack the Packers secondary early. Cornerback Al Harris will miss his second straight game with a spleen injury, and Charles Woodson continues to play with a broken toe. Free safety Nick Collins looks to be the only opening day starter healthy in the Packers defensive backfield. Charlie Peprah will get his first start at strong safety with both Atari Bigby (hamstring) and Aaron Rouse (knee) out with injuries. This is Peprah’s third year with the Packers, but he has seen limited action with just 15 tackles in 26 games. Still, he’s not looking to do anything special. When asked what he would focus on during this weekend’s game, Peprah said he would “Just play football. Don’t put any pressure on myself, don’t try to do too much. There’s ten other guys out there with me.” Hopefully those “ten other guys” will step up and perform at a high level. Not all of those players were expected to be starting at this point in the season. The defense will also be dealing with the absence of defensive end Cullen Jenkins, who was placed on injured reserve Monday with a torn pectoral muscle, and may be without linebacker A.J. Hawk, who is a game-time decision.
With a banged up defense, it may be up to rookie second-stringer Matt Flynn to guide the Packers to a victory. Flynn fell to the Packers in the seventh round of the 2007 draft after mixed reviews at the collegiate level. He was widely praised after guiding LSU to the national championship last year, twelve months removed from the departure of 2007 first overall draft pick JaMarcus Russell. Still, there were concerns about Flynn’s arm strength and how long he held onto the ball coming out of LSU. But the Packers couldn’t pass on a quarterback who had just won a national championship. Flynn outplayed second-rounder Brian Brohm in the preseason to secure the backup spot and may now find himself starting in just the fifth week of his rookie year. Coach Mike McCarthy said he believes Flynn will thrive as a starter if need be: “He's played in big games. Matt's won a national championship; that speaks for itself… He'll be ready to go.”
Each team may also send a rookie quarterback to the field on Sunday. Both have seen their fair share of success at the collegiate level but are relatively inexperienced in the pros. With Aaron Rodgers slotted as a game-time decision with a separated shoulder, it is looking more likely that number two quarterback Matt Flynn may be in charge of the offense this weekend at Lambeau. The Falcons continue to rely on quarterback Matt Ryan for success.
Ryan, a 23 year old rookie taken 3rd overall by Atlanta in this year’s NFL draft, climbed up draft charts during an impressive senior season at Boston College. By the end of the 2007 college football season, he was dubbed the best quarterback in the draft. He has been serviceable thus far for the Falcons.. Ryan has guided the team to two victories mainly by being a game-manager. He threw two interceptions against the Buccaneers in week two but has not turned the ball over otherwise. The Packers will have to be extra cautious against the Falcons, as Ryan has touchdown throws of 62 and 70 yards. Those are his only two scores, so if the Packers can prevent the big play they should be in good shape. Outside of those two passes, Ryan is just 53 of 103 for 537 yards in four games.
The Falcons will surely look to attack the Packers secondary early. Cornerback Al Harris will miss his second straight game with a spleen injury, and Charles Woodson continues to play with a broken toe. Free safety Nick Collins looks to be the only opening day starter healthy in the Packers defensive backfield. Charlie Peprah will get his first start at strong safety with both Atari Bigby (hamstring) and Aaron Rouse (knee) out with injuries. This is Peprah’s third year with the Packers, but he has seen limited action with just 15 tackles in 26 games. Still, he’s not looking to do anything special. When asked what he would focus on during this weekend’s game, Peprah said he would “Just play football. Don’t put any pressure on myself, don’t try to do too much. There’s ten other guys out there with me.” Hopefully those “ten other guys” will step up and perform at a high level. Not all of those players were expected to be starting at this point in the season. The defense will also be dealing with the absence of defensive end Cullen Jenkins, who was placed on injured reserve Monday with a torn pectoral muscle, and may be without linebacker A.J. Hawk, who is a game-time decision.
With a banged up defense, it may be up to rookie second-stringer Matt Flynn to guide the Packers to a victory. Flynn fell to the Packers in the seventh round of the 2007 draft after mixed reviews at the collegiate level. He was widely praised after guiding LSU to the national championship last year, twelve months removed from the departure of 2007 first overall draft pick JaMarcus Russell. Still, there were concerns about Flynn’s arm strength and how long he held onto the ball coming out of LSU. But the Packers couldn’t pass on a quarterback who had just won a national championship. Flynn outplayed second-rounder Brian Brohm in the preseason to secure the backup spot and may now find himself starting in just the fifth week of his rookie year. Coach Mike McCarthy said he believes Flynn will thrive as a starter if need be: “He's played in big games. Matt's won a national championship; that speaks for itself… He'll be ready to go.”
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