Thursday, September 28, 2017

My Take -> Week 4

Greetings, G-Force.

2-1. In dramatic fashion. 2017 continues to have the makings of a special year at Lambeau. The Stadium sounded great through the TV. The fans made a difference in the outcome. Lambeau appeared to be in party mode. Without a doubt. The Bengals calling a timeout on the first play of OT? That's HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE! 2-0 at home. Both wins were massively aided by the Faithful. The environment feels so great. I really enjoyed seeing the dude wearing a Craig Newsome jersey straight getting after it. He was elevating the stands, making a different. Marvelous to see.

I sit with the LCD Soundsystem American Dream album rocking through the speakers. Musical creativity at it's finest. They put on a fantastic, high energy concert. Diversity in their music. The sound rings smoothly. This new album is a nice addition to their collection.

Here are my quick thoughts on the past week:

* A short week is not only tough on the players, but it's also tough on the bloggers. Especially those with a full-time job, a wife, a dog and 2 young boys. Oh, and when one of the nights in between involves a Gorillaz concert, you feel the rush of the train to punch out the blog. So, if I'm not overly thorough, it's due to a time crunch.

* Mike McCarthy's team shows that it has the mental fortitude to punch through a trying situation. It certainly felt like melancholy as the teams went into the tunnel for halftime. The team couldn't protect Rodgers. The team was struggling to slow the Bengals offense. But, McCarthy rallied the troops during the intermission and the team rallied in robust fashion. Striking with a 51 yard pass from Rodgers to Kendricks to start the 3rd Quarter.

* Kudos to Dom Capers. He's often maligned. But, he adjusted really well in what felt like a must-win September game. While the offense attempted to gather itself in a comeback effort, the defense really led the charge. After giving up 2 TD's in the first three drives, the defense only yielded 3 more points. Capers was playing without Brice, Ryan, House, Daniels and Perry. Still, he received maximum effort from multiple back-up defenders.

* Aaron Rodgers. I really hope the TD drive to equalize at the end of regulation is the moment that sparks excellence from the 2017 Packers offensive unit. Rodgers was in control when the pressure was highest. A true treat to watch. He's uncanny ability to draw the defense offside is the stuff of legend. It was on display at crucial moments - including on the games most determining play.

* Martellus Bennett has to catch the football.

* Happy to see Lance Kendricks making an impact. He had to be so stoked with his TD grab. Imagine being a WI boy catching a tudd at Lambeau? Man. Epic.

* The Packers need to get the ball to RIP. Give Ty a break. Let RIP bang away at the line of scrimmage. Soften up that defense. Would like to see RIP get 5-7 carries this weekend.

* GERONIMO! I thought he ducked short of the first down marker on a third Quarter pass when he went for 9. Felt like he could've easily got the first down. Left me disappointed that he didn't lunge forward for a first down. But, boy did he ever respond on the final two drives. He caught two passes for first downs on the game tying drive. And, he set-up the game winning FG as he willfully fought for additional yards after contact on his glorious 72 yard reception.

* Jordy gonna Jordy.

* Davante Adams. Showing a lil' shake to his hips after the catch.

* Thought Corey Linsley looked like a Pro Bowler.

* We need you Bulaga. Hustle back.

* I'm surprised at how slow Bennett and Kendricks look.

* I fear that Ty has tired legs. He's playing an abundance of snaps. He's lost a little of his burst. He looks like he could use a massage table and a hot tub.

* Let it be known that the Packers were missing nearly 30% of their starters. Additionally, they lost another starter in-game. They played with two back-up tackles. And, they still won. That doesn't happen in the NFL.

* Rodgers to GERONIMO. Beautiful. What a pass. And, the run after the catch. Gorgeous.

* Maybe it's just me, but I'm not sure the Mixon slipping play was luck. I wonder if it was 80,000 Packer maniac fans making a difference. Creating nerves in the young back. Forcing him to feel the energy from the ghosts of Lambeau.

* Kenny Clark is a budding superstar. Can't wait to see more of Clark and Daniels lined up next to each other. Need Daniels to get healthy.

* Thought Dean Lowry hustled well. His play was inconsistent, but it wasn't due to a lack of effort.

* Josh Jones. We are a completely different defense with him on the field. We're faster. We're more dynamic. We're more versatile. We're more confusing. As he gets more accustomed to the setting, he's only going to get better. 12 tackles. 3 for loss. 2 sacks. 2 QB Hits. When's the last time a Packers defender had that stat line? I can't recall. He was a difference maker. He had instincts. He's in attack mode when he sees the ball carrier. Josh Jones was the MVP of the game.

* Blake Martinez read his DL moves really well. He followed Kenny Clark into the backfield. As Clark won his battle, Martinez trailed perfectly in pursuit. Martinez showed intelligence and intensity as he had 11 tackles; 1 of them for a loss. I thought Martinez misread the zone coverage in pass defense on a couple of occasions; especially on the games opening TD. Further, I thought Martinez might have been at fault on the Bernard TD as he failed to pick him up on the pre-snap switch that he called out.

* Yes, Martinez & Jones combined for 23 tackles; 4 of them for a loss. Both played with speed.

* Kevin King plays with confidence. He plays with fire. He plays with swag. He has big moments in his future.

* Really liked Marwin Evans look deep in the secondary.

* Yo, HaHa. You're my boy. But, time to make a play. This team needs you. This defense needs to start forcing turnovers. You are that guy for this team. Be the Leader. Initiate the 2017 turnover party!

* Ahmad Brooks! Making an impact! Not only with the sack, but I thought that he altered the kicker's motion on the missed FG as he burst through the middle of the line of scrimmage.

* Clay Matthews may not have dominated the box score, but he was consistently getting double teamed and he played with high energy throughout.

* Mason Crosby is so clutch.

* Justin Vogel was booming kicks after his first punt.

This week - it's the hated Bears. Yes, the Bears still suck. They're 1-2. But, they're one play away from being 2-1. They've beaten the Steelers. They were in position to beat the Falcons. If the Bears don't turn the ball over, they can play with most teams in the NFL.

Offensively, the Bears run the football. They mix and match Jordan Howard and Tarik Cohen. Howard brings power. Cohen brings speed. They run the ball early and they run the ball often. They run the ball to set up the play action pass to the TE and the comeback route to the WR. Zach Miller is a talented, under appreciated TE. He is a fighter as a blocker and a sure handed TE. Kendall Wright is a gifted WR who is a threat with the ball in his hands. Markus Wheaton can stretch the field. Deonte Thompson is a tough tackle. The Bears OL is a force. Kyle Long and Josh Sitton are both Pro Bowl caliber OG's. Charles Leno can be beaten at LT, but he's steady. Bobby Massie is a big bodied, athletic RT. Cody Whitehair is a highly touted 2nd year Center. Mike Glennon is a turnover waiting to happen and since most of his passes are underneath, he's vulnerable to the pick-6.

Defensively, the Bears try to move the line of scrimmage. Akiem Hicks is a force on the DL. Willie Young, Leonard Floyd, and Pernell McPhee all get after the QB with a fierce viciousness. Eddie Goldman and Jonathan Bullard are fast improving DL. At LB, Danny Trevathan gets sideline-to-sideline with the best of them in the game. Prince Amukamara is a fighter at CB. He plays every play as if it's his last. Kyle Fuller is a talented CB with play making potential, but he's been picked on to start the season. Marcus Cooper is a long CB who does a good job getting his hands on a WR's. At S, Eddie Jackson is a rookie who shows promise. Adrian Amos can be beaten.

Although both Bulaga and Bakhtiari are both listed as doubtful, I'm hopeful that the Packers can find a way to get both of them on the field. Without either of them, it'll be hard to win. Without them, the Packers will be without their top 5 OT's.

I expect the Bears to slow the pace down. Immensely. They'll look to run the football. In most cases, they'll run the ball on both 1st and 2nd down. They're going to come at the middle of the field in an attempt to keep Josh Jones off the field. It'll be up to Kenny Clark, Dean Lowry, Quinton Dial, and Mike Daniels (if healthy) to keep the OL from getting to the 2nd wave of defense. If so, Blake Martinez and Josh Jones will be able to roam field. If not, we'll likely see more Jake Ryan and less Josh Jones. Ideally, the Packers defensive front will win the battle and they'll be able to eat up blockers.

The Packers have to play with 8 in the box. Single high safety with HaHa as the safety valve over the top. It'll limit the CB's aggressiveness on jumping routes. But, it's the Packers best chance to force 3rd and 7. It'll be tough for the Bears to move the football when they need to get more than 4 yards on 3rd down. The Bears will have some success outmuscling the Packers front. They'll move the football. Chewing clock. But, the Bears will struggle to find the end zone.

On the contrary, the Packers come with the quick hitters. Cobb gets the ball early in the game. Davante Adams gets a free release and gets loose on a double move. Lance Kendricks finds the middle of the field on play-action.

Rodgers gets McPhee to jump and it's a big ball to Nelson.

The Bears lead late over the injury riddled Packers. But, Rodgers gets one more chance. He finds victory on a strike to GERONIMO.

Expect to see RIP getting some touches pounding the ball at the heart of the Bears defensive front.

Expect to see Rodgers trying to get rid of the ball quickly.

Expect to see Martellus Bennett used extensively as a blocker.

Expect to see the Packers secondary forcing their first turnover of the young season.

3-1 will feel Super exciting. !0 days to get healthy will be much needed for this team.

Packers 24.
Bears 23.

THE BEARS STILL SUCK!

Go Pack Go!

Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/buzzboy3

Saturday, September 23, 2017

My Take -> Week 3

Greetings, G-Force.

1-1. With two games at Lambeau on the docket. Need to dominate our home field. With the injuries, we’re going 81,441 Green and Gold maniacs in the stands to help pull out these next two wins. Injuries are an equalizer. It’s up to the fans to ensure that Lambeau is protected. If you’re going to be in attendance, you best bring your A-game!

While I write, it’s the Grateful Dead’s Terrapin Station that rings in my ears. This 1977 classic gets the spirit Dancin’. And, how can you dislike the studio version of Terrapin Station? Perfectly performed.

Here are my quick vibes from the last week:

* Call me crazy. But, the best thing to happen to the Packers was to fall behind 31-7. The Packers won’t win the Super Bowl with Randall and Rollins starting in the defensive backfield. We’ve seen that story before. And, while both are highly capable defenders who offer bright spots, they both have severe limitations. Josh Jones and Kevin King were drafted to be difference makers. They have the size and speed that are required to dominate defensively in the modern NFL. Additionally, in limited action, both have flashed playmaking ability. It’s beyond vital for the Packers to get both players in the mix. Immediately.

* Thought McCarthy brought fire to the team. Liked his animation on the sidelines. Appreciated his sideline penalty. This is no excuse, it’s just a fact, but the officiating was awful. Though it didn’t decide the game in any fashion, it was very poorly called. The Bennett pick penalty was unfair. It changed the momentum in the game. The Packers were poised for points before the half and they were set to get the ball to start the 2nd half – down only one score. Instead, it was 24-7 at the half and the game was all but over. Making matters worse, on the Atlanta TD, there was a clear pick directly in front of the Field Judge. There was no call. Finally, down 31-7, the Packers scored an apparent TD, only to have it called back by another questionable pick call. A pick that was far less blatant than the non-call on the Atlanta TD.

* Capers tried to diversify his defensive calls, but his team was crippled due to injuries. No Brice. No Daniels. A limited Perry. House also left. Capers couldn’t win with what he was playing with. I was happy that Randall was replaced so early in the game after his poor performance. I wonder if we’re going to see more of Josh Hawkins as well. Hawkins showed well in the preseason. I’m also curious if Pipkins might get his shot in the slot. Pipkins performed really well in the slot throughout the preseason. We may see a new look against the Bengals this week.

* Aaron Rodgers. Tough as it gets.

* Martellus Bennett. Come on, Marty. Get focused. We need you in a big way. Catch the ball. He’s made a great impact as a blocker, but need him as a receiver. Desperately.

* I’d like to see McCarthy designing a play to get Kendricks the ball deep down the field.

* It was clear that Geronimo and Rodgers aren’t in-sync with one another.

* Quinton Dial showed flashes of heightened physicality. Then, on other downs, he was pushed 3 yards backwards.

* I can’t wait to see Montravious Adams on 3rd downs. Hope it happens this weekend.

* Welcome back, Ricky Jean Francois. I like RJF as a rotational DL. Hope that his addition does not mean the Daniels injury is severe. We are far less powerful on the DL without Daniels. Daniels brings quickness to the defensive front. He’s needed.

* Thought Kyle Murphy played very well at LT. He was quick off the snap and for the most part, he was able to man up and use his body well.

* It may not show up in the box score, but I really liked the way Kevin King matched up with Julio Jones. He was a gamer. He’s length was a disturbance to Jones. Thought King covered the crossing route well. He fought through the traffic and showed his competitive nature.

* Fantastic use of sending Josh Jones on the weak side blitz. He has the speed to chase down ball carriers and if the timing is right and the play call is a play-action pass, Jones will almost certainly come away with a sack.

* Congrats on 300, Rodgers. Let’s see 340 by the end of the year!

* Right now, Ty Montgomery is the Packers offensive MVP.

* Fans are overly critical the Claymaker. Dude was the only defender to show up in the first half last week. So far, in 2017, he’s showing the quickness that we last saw in 2014. His burst his back. He’s been tireless in his effort. I’m expecting a big year from him.

* With the Perry injury, we need Ahmad Brooks to show in a big, big way.

* The Packers are going to need a big play on special teams over the next two weeks as we strive to find health. Hoping Trevor Davis is up to the task.

* Soon, this secondary is going to force a couple of turnovers. With added length and quickness, we’ll be around the ball and game changing plays will occur. Should happen this week.

This week – it’s the Bengals. At Lambeau. When the schedule is tough, you need to win the games that you’re supposed to win. This is one of those games. You can’t lose to the Bengals at home and expect to be in the mix at the end of the year. Not when the Lions and Viqueens look as good as they do. It’s going to take a minimum of 11 wins to win the NFC North. That requires 8-0 at home. That also requires Lambeau to be as rowdy over the next two weeks as it was during the Home Opener. If the fans make it difficult for Andy Dalton, he’ll make mistakes.

Although their offense has been putrid thus far, the Bengals do have a slew of talented offensive players. AJ Green is a dynamic WR. Brandon LaFell is a tough match-up. He uses his body to shield defenders at a first-class level. That Packers are fortunate that John Ross is not able to go. When healthy, he’ll give the Bengals speed that they haven’t seen before. He gets in and out of his breaks with lightning-like quickness. He’d have been a match-up nightmare in the slot for the Packers. At RB, the Bengals have three really solid players in Joe Mixon, Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard. It looks like the Packers will catch a break with Tyler Eifert being out. The Bengals offensive line is significantly below average. The Packers have to win the trenches – even without Daniels. If we can get pressure on Dalton, he’ll give us opportunities to make plays.

Defensively, the Bengals will try to out-muscle you. Carlos Dunlap and Michael Johnson bring incredible height to the edge. They’re both masters of batting down passes and above average pass rushers. Jordan Willis has the makings of being a stud as a pass rusher. Geno Atkins is arguably the best interior DL in football. Ryan Glasgow is a promising run-stopping DL. The Bengals LB’s are a huge weakness without Burfict. The LB group is inexperienced and hasn’t spent time together. They lack leadership. The middle of the field should be open. In the secondary, the Bengals lack depth. The Packers should be able to spread them out and they’ll find some mismatches. Adam Jones is a fighter, but he lacks speed. You can beat him over the top. Dre Kirkpatrick brings ideal length to the perimeter and is a bright spot in the secondary. Shawn Williams and George Iloka are punishers at Safety, but both can be beaten over the top.

Health will be a major factor in determining the outcome this week. If Bulaga and Bakhtiari can play, Rodgers will have plenty of time to throw the ball around the park. If Nelson and Cobb are a go, the Bengals won’t have the personnel to cover our weapons and the Packers will put up north of 30 points in a 20 point victory. If Daniels is fit, he’ll destroy the Bengals OL. But, those are all significant question marks. Seeing that Bakhtiari, Perry, Ryan, Cobb, Daniels, Brice, House and Bulaga are doubtful; I don’t anticipate that any of them will play. I imagine that those 7 players will also be the inactives for the week. Yes, the packers will be playing without 7 starters. And, Bulaga and Nelson are questionable.

Still - expect McCarthy to come out aggressive in his play calling. He’ll look to his double TE sets early. They’ll present mismatch problems for the Bengals undermanned LB crew. Look for the Packers to limit Nelson’s snaps. We’ll see Adams and Allison on the outside with Bennett and Kendricks being moved around the formation. Both will get opportunities downfield. Both will be in position to make plays. Rodgers knows the importance of this week. He doesn’t allow a repeat of the Colts game from last year. Rodgers is in control. Here’s to hoping he whips it around the Field 45+ times this weekend. I’d give him the game. I anticipate that McCarthy might move the pocket more this week than he did last week.

The Bengals will try to control the clock. They’ll look to run the football on early downs. Without Daniels, the Bengals might be able to experience success moving the line of scrimmage and frustrating the Packers defensive personnel.

Don’t be shocked if the Packers start Hawkins and King at CB with Pipkens in the slot. With Jones and HaHa at Safety. There's even a possibility that there's a Marwin Evans sighting on defense.

Look for HaHa to come up with his first momentum swinging play of the new year.

Look for Adams to find the end zone over PacMan Jones.

Look for Bennett to score a Red Zone TD.

Clay grabs another sack.

Lambeau gets loud and makes a difference.

The diversity in this offense shows it's face this week. In past years, these injuries would've crippled the roster and led to a bad loss. This year - these opportunities give the Packers a youth movement. And, our youngsters will shine. We’re headed to 2-1 with the Bears coming to Lambeau on a short week.

Packers 24.
Bengals 16.

Go Pack Go!

Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-mac.blogspot.com

Friday, September 15, 2017

My Take -> Week 2

Greetings, G-Force.

In emphatic fashion, the Green Bay Packers went to 1-0. The Green Bay Packers beat the Seattle Seahawks at their own game. The Packers were more physical. The Packers were stronger. The Packers were tougher. And, when push came to shove in a tight game, it was the Packers defense that elevated and not the Seahawks. This was a big win as the Packers prepare to play 3 of the next 5 games on the road. Those 3 road games are going to be tough. If the Packers can find a way to win 1, I'll like our odds of being in contention to win the NFC North. If the Packers can win 2, I'll like our position to make a run at the #1 seed in the NFC.

As I write, I am listening to the Greensky Bluegrass "If Sorrows Swim" album. I'm seeing Greensky at Red Rocks in just over a week. Greensky plays jam music with bluegrass instruments. The have a hint of rock & roll with intensely energetic vocals. Each note is pointed with intent. There's no dull moment. It's head bobbing musical theater.

Here's my quick vibes from the last week:

* Lambeau Field. If the crowd and the Stadium carry that vibe all year, the Packers will go 8-0 at home. No one is walking into Lambeau and beating the Packers. Not with that energy vibrating off the hallowed walls of the most epic Sporting Venue in America.

* It's hard for me to explain it, but this Packers team just feels different. The make-up. The texture. The energy. The exuberance. The togetherness. It feels fresh. It's fun. Regardless of what happens from here on out, I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for the 2017 Green Bay Packers.

* Mike McCarthy. He had his team ready. He had his team fired up. The team looked ready to deliver an early knock-out punch until the fluky Rodgers interception. I thought the Packers were fairly well coached until the final minute of the 1st half. And then, what was McCarthy doing calling those timeouts? There was no chance that the Packers were going to get the ball back. All Seattle had to do was run the football three times and they could run the clock out if they didn't get a first down. But, the Packers idiotically called two timeouts to preserve time for Seattle. Then, after Seattle picked up the first down, they had life and they were able to get aggressive down the field. McCarthy needs to learn his lesson and not call late timeouts near the end of the first half. He's been burned time and time again. What was so odd about this time was that there was ZERO chance that his team could get the ball back. Seattle would have never had to punt. In fact, defensive players on Seattle were already walking back to the locker room for an early halftime break. It was unbelievably poor coaching and because of it, McCarthy gave 3 points.

* I'm a big fan of the nitro package on defense. We look faster. We look tougher. We looked fresher as players were rotating in and out.

* Rodgers wasn't in MVP mode, but he was tough. He stood in the middle of a collapsing pocket and he stood tall against the Seattle pass rush. Post the Mike Daniels forced fumble, Rodgers seemed to relax. He was getting rid of the ball quicker. He seemed to see the field better. The Daniels forced fumble appeared to settle down the offense in a big way.

* Ty Montgomery is a budding star in this league. 23 touches. 93 yards. 1 TD. He was consistently falling forward and picking up yards after contact. He's a tough runner. I'm hoping he can take the pounding of a RB for the entire season. His durability will be tested.

* Would like to see RIP get the ball on an inside hand-off out of shotgun. He'll wear on defenses. I'm not worried about his fumble in ATL last year. Give the man confidence. We'll need him at some point this year.

* Jamaal Williams looked impressive on his two carries. On the first one, he bulled his way forward for first down yardage. And on his second carry, he showed quickness that we've yet to see out of him. He also displayed good vision and the ability to step to the outside and turn what could've been a loss into a 6-yard gain.

* Rodgers-to-Jordy on a free play. Midseason form.

* Really enjoyed how Cobb was moved around. Liked seeing him come in motion on the end around and then having the ball flipped to him on a swing pass. Next time, I'd throw the ball to the weak side of the field. Adams was 1 v 1. And, he was open. Imagine he would be the next time we saw that play as well.

* Martellus Bennett was more valuable as a blocker than as a pass receiver. He's defining of the Packers physical intent for the 2017 season. He's not fleet of foot, but he'll overpower you. On the Montgomery TD, Bennett drove his defender 6 yards back off the line of scrimmage into the end zone. We haven't seen that type of blocking from a TE in a long time.

* When Lance Kendricks is on the field, for the most part, he's open. He has big plays in his arsenal this year. He, too, is a steady blocking hand.

* Richard Rodgers is not happy. He didn't like how Aaron Rodgers showed him up after the incomplete pass that was thrown in his direction in the 4th Qtr. After the game, Richard Rodgers sprinted off the field without shaking anyone's hand. He was anxious to get to the locker room.

* The Packers need better out of Jahri Evans. Evans was pushed backwards. Often. He was also a grabber. He's scrappy, but he needs to be stronger at the point of attack.

* Thought Kyle Murphy settled down well. His play was up-and-down early. He was late to get off the ball in the run game and lost his block due to quickness. But, as the game wore on, Murphy held up well.

* I'm excited to get Geronimo back this week.

* Wish Davante would've came down with the acrobatic catch on a day in which Adams only caught 3 of the 7 passes thrown his way.

* Mike Daniels absolutely dominated the game. 7 tackles. 1.5 sacks. 1 tackle for loss. 4 QB Hits. He overpowered the Seattle OL all day. He's forced fumble was the play of the game. It swung the momentum. Post the play, the Packers offense had four possessions. The results: TD, TD, FG, and a 6:17 clock-gutting drive to seal the win. Over the last 25:33, the Packers offense looked like a Championship unit. Daniels jump started the offense's engine.

* Nick Perry was an absolute MAN! He was muscle infused. He manhandled whoever was blocking him. He lived in the Seattle backfield. 3 tackles. 1.5 sacks. 2 QB hits. 1 tackle for loss.

* Kenny Clark was winning the line of scrimmage nearly every play.

* If Clay Matthews stays patient and plays with that level of quickness and effort, he's going to have a 10-sack season.

* I am not sure Blake Martinez can play better than he did against Seattle. He was in command of the middle of the field. He was possessed as he went to plug the hole.

* Morgan Burnett at ILB is a thing. He really limited Jimmy Graham. Had a blanket on him all day. Graham finished with 3 catches for 8 yards on 7 targets.

* Kyler Fackrell showed life. He had a handful of good pressure plays from his OLB spot. He was giving maximum effort.

* When Ahmad Brooks was on the field, he had the Seahawks attention. Seattle was often looking to chip him or come with a double team.

* I can't wait to see Quinton Dial in a Packers uniform.

* Surprised that Ricky Jean Francois was released. Thought he played with good effort and extension on the few snaps that he played.

* Jake Ryan looked really sharp in limited playing time. He was seeing the field well. Kudos to the DL for opening the lane for Ryan and props to Ryan for hitting the hole with anger.

* Fun to see Davon House setting the tone with a forceful tackle on the 2nd play of the game.

* Quentin Rollins was aggressive in the slot. He was around the ball. He was pursuing the line of scrimmage. He had a couple of missed tackles that were worrisome and he was a step late a couple of times in pass defense, but overall, Rollins showed well enough to warrant the start in Week 2 as the slot CB.

* Damarious Randall was in position throughout. If he can stay healthy and continues to earn a starting spot, he could intercept 5 passes this year.

* Kentrell Brice is a hitting machine in the middle of this defense. He's going to force turnovers this year and they'll come at a time when the Packers desperately need a momentum swinging play.

* Jeff Janis was stellar as a gunner. He won his battle nearly every time. Thought it was interesting that Josh Jones was used as the other gunner. He certainly has the skill set for it. He has to be careful that he doesn't run out of bounds for so long before coming back on the field though. Twice, I thought he could've gotten penalized after he was bumped out of bounds early in the play and he didn't immediately look to rejoin the action as he ran downfield.

* Trevor Davis was a buzzkill as a PR. Didn't look confident. Was shy on running up to catch a short punt with plenty of hang time. He doesn't appear to be a good decision maker.

* I plan on marinating in relaxation for most of Saturday afternoon and evening. If so, I'll be able to get caught up on some college football and I'll put out another 2018 Packers mock draft. I've put Justin Crawford, RB, Dub-V in ink as someone I want on the Packers next year. He's shifty, he's fun.

This week - it's the Falcons. In Atlanta. One would have to think that the Packers have been preparing for this game since last January. They've been trying to figure out how they can slow down the Atlanta attack. It's why the Packers drafted the tall, speedy, rangy CB in Kevin King. It's why the Packers brought back Davon House. Remember that House played well against Julio Jones towards the end of the 2014 game in which Jones destroyed the Packers prior to House being assigned to him. It's also why the Packers are looking to get more physical up front. The Packers DL was manhandled in ATL. With Dial and hopefully, a healthy Brooks, I'd imagine that the Packers will put up a much better fight against the Falcons talented OL. Further, the Packers clearly studied the speed that ATL played with on defense. Hence, we'll be seeing the nitro package in abundance this year.

ATL continues to be littered with weapons on offense. Matt Ryan is the reigning MVP. Julio Jones is among the top 2-3 WR's in the NFL. Mohamed Sanu is a brute of a WR. He's a tall, muscular WR who is a tough cover and a talented 3rd down threat. Taylor Gabriel is an undersized slot WR who uses quickness to get loose. He gets in and out of his breaks in eye-popping fashion. At RB, Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman are the best 1-2 punch in the league. Austin Hooper is a sure handed TE who's best attribute is his blocking skills. Jake Matthews has consistently tamed his cousin, Clay, in their one-on-one battles. Alex Mack is among the best Centers in the league. Andy Levitre is a veteran who won't be beaten often. Wes Schweitzer was terrible against Chicago. Daniels has to destroy Schweitzer.

Don't be fooled about Atlanta's performance in Chicago. The Falcons offense is legit.

Defensively, Atlanta plays with speed. Brooks Reed and Vic Beasley are relentless coming off of the edge. Tak McKinley is an aggressive pass rushing specialist. Dontari Poe is a block-eating run stopper in the middle of the DL. Grady Jarrett is an active big body. Courtney Upshaw is a tough dude manning the edge. Adrian Clayborn brings fantastic depth to the Falcons DL. Deion Jones and De'Vondre Campbell are ideal speed LB's who will often line up side-by-side in the heart of the defense. They can cover and get to the sideline in the run game. Jarrett, Poe and Clayborn eat blockers to allow Jones and Campbell to run. The Falcons lack height at CB. But, they have quickness and attitude. Desmond Trufant, Brian Poole, Robert Alford, and Damontae Kazee are all undersized corners who can run. They can all be beaten on the jump ball. All will use their hands and get gritty with you. If the refs are calling it tight, we'll get some free first downs. Keanu Neal is a beast at Safety.

The Packers defense has to be in attack mode. If not, Atlanta's offense will pour it on just like they did in the NFC Championship Game. I'd like to see Capers call a number of different blitzes early. The Packers have to get in Ryan's face early. Ryan isn't mobile, so you have to get in his face. Daniels has to win on the interior. He has to beat up Schweitzer. I'd like to see Josh Jones coming on a blitz from an ILB position around the edge. I want to see Blake Martinez attacking the heart of the ATL OL as a pass rusher on the blitz. Rollins needs to come on the slot blitz. Matthews and Perry need to win their 1 on 1 battles. There has to be confusion. Without it, Ryan will have a field day.

It's very possible that the Packers will play well defensively and still give up 27 points.

Offensively, the Packers have to try to control the clock. The Packers have to try and get the run game going. I'd like to see RIP carrying the ball. Leaning against those ATL LB's. I want to see Montgomery catching the ball in the flat. Let's utilize Bennett's blocking strength and run behind him. Eat clock. Keep that ATL offense off of the field. It'll also open up play action. The Packers will have opportunities for big plays down the middle of the field on crossing routes. Look for Geronimo to have a big game.

Whoever has it last wins it. This time - fortune is on our side. It's Crosby from 47 yards out and a Packers victory!

Packers 30.
Falcons 27.

Go Pack Go!

Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com

Wednesday, September 6, 2017

My Take -> Week 1

Greetings, G-Force.

I head to Titletown, U.S.A. this weekend. For the home opener. To take my wife, Star, and Son, Dylan, to the game. To watch my Dad perform at Lambeau. This Sunday marks the start of his 28th Regular Season in which he's been involved with GameDay Production at the World’s Greatest Sports Theater. I’m damn proud to be Mac’s son. Love that man. Grateful to call him Dad.

I’m still in recovery mode after 3 nights of Phish in CO. I can’t get enough. I’m listening to the 9/3/17 show as I type. 9/3 is a special day in my Family. It’s Simon’s birthday. He's my youngest Son. If you’re a fan of jam band music, be sure to get your ears on this show. It was an inspiring musical showing. Powerful from an instrumental and a lyrical perspective. Vibe in!

Even though the 2017 NFL Season has yet to Kickoff, I already love this version of the Green Bay Packers. The Packers are built with a more physical nature than we’re accustomed to. Outside of Spriggs and Fackrell, we don’t aren’t comprised of soft players. We have sheer force on this roster.

I don't envision this team finishing 13-3 and having home field throughout. But, as is often the case with Mike McCarthy teams, I do think the Packers will be playing their best football in December. This team will take a little while to gel. There are a lot of new faces. Especially on the defensive side of the ball. And, the beginning of the year is loaded with difficult tests. The Packers could play really good football and start the season 3-3. So, I'm picking 11-5. Another NFC North Championship. And, with that, let's get to the playoffs, while playing our best football and see what happens.

Here are a couple of quick vibes from the last week:

· Ted Thompson. He wants another ring. He’s built a group that – if healthy – is capable of winning a title.

· Ahmad Brooks is a Packer. He’s going to bring intensity to the OLB group. He’ll be muscle flexing with jubilation.

· Quinton Dial’s signing is massive. Dude can play the run. Tells me that the Packers are looking for Mike Daniels’ largest role to be as a pass rusher on 3rd down. I salivate at the thought of seeing Daniels and Adams rushing the passer on third downs. That’d be two quick dudes who understand leverage and know how to collapse a pocket.

· Can’t say that I’m bummed that Taysom Hill didn’t make the roster, but a year of development might’ve eased the Packers thoughts about traded Hundley after the year. Would be nice to enter next year with a QB who has seen the system prior to getting rid of Hundley. Don’t be surprised if Hill isn’t back on the roster at some point during the year – maybe even the Practice Squad.

· Really surprised that Yancey is on the practice squad and Malachi Dupre is not. Thought Dupre looked like a top notch athlete who had a shot in this league. Shockingly, it doesn’t appear as though Dupre was even added to anyone’s practice squad.

· LaDarius Gunter earned his roster spot. Put him in action and the dude simply makes plays. Exciting to see him on the blitz. He’s around the football. He has to learn to finish plays.

· The Packers appear to be extremely healthy heading into the regular season. Bulaga’s status was encouraging. The Packers need the OL intact in order to be a threat to win the Bowl.

· Looking forward to seeing Lowry, Clark, Dial and Jean Francois punishing OL on early downs. This DL should be extremely physical.

· If Jayrone Elliott meets the conditions of the trade, the Packers will have 13 selections in the 2018 NFL draft. I’ll be following his progress all year.

This week – it gets real. The fun begins. The Seagulls come to Lambeau Field. Seattle has become a serious rival for the Packers. And, it seems that the team who hosts is generally the team that wins. There’s no reason that the Packers don’t continue that trend in Week 1.

A 3:25 start. I anticipate an intoxicated, fully amped Lambeau Field.

As a general thought, when these two teams have battled, the team that was most physical was the team that won. The Packers should dominate the line of scrimmage this weekend. The Seahawks have one of the worst OL in all of football. I’ll be shocked if Rees Odhiambo can adequately fulfill the LT role. I’d think Clay Matthews, Nick Perry and Ahmad Brooks will plow right through him. Luke Joeckel was a bust for Jacksonville. He’s trying to salvage his career in Seattle by moving to Guard. I like Justin Britt as an anchor at Tackle. Mark Glowinski is average – at best – at Guard. I’d like to think that the Packers DL will beat him up as they rotate throughout. The Packers DL will be fresh and they should overpower Glowinski. Germain Ifedi is a solid RT, but I’m hoping that Matthews and Perry can run around him.

Doug Baldwin is a cagey WR. He plays faster than he times. He is more physical than he looks. He’s tough to bring down in the open field. He’s a fighter. He’s a winner. Paul Richardson brings speed to the outside. He can get over the top of the defense. He'll also fight for the ball in coverage. He'll test the Packers deep down the field. Tyler Lockett isn't only a lethal returner, but he's also a dangerous slot receiver. He works hard on busted plays. The longer Wilson holds on the ball and tries to improvise, the better the chance that Lockett gets open. Tanner McEvoy has made the transition to WR. He's a great athlete and has the height to present a mismatch on the perimeter. Although he has not lived up expectations in Seattle yet, Jimmy Graham is a stud. He is a mismatch every time he steps out on the field.

At RB, Seattle is loaded. They'll be bringing a motivated EDDIE Lacy to town. I'll always have space in my heart for EDDIE and I'll miss him in Green Bay. You know he'll want to run all over us. Thomas Rawls and CJ Prosise present big problems for the Packers offense. Prosise has tremendous receiving skills. And, he's extremely dangerous in space. Rawls punishes when he connects with defenders. He seems to always fall forward for extra yardage. With Rawls, Prosise, and Lacy; I anticipate that Seattle will try to run the football early in the game. They'll try to set up the play action pass to get Wilson rolling out of the pocket and looking downfield to test the Packers secondary.

If I’m Dom Capers. I’m playing Seattle straight up. Collapsing the pocket with our rebuilt DL and putting a spy on Wilson. I’m banking on the Packers DL winning the battle against the Seattle OL. Our 4 DL can beat their 5 OL straight up. I'm confident in that. I’d consider playing Burnett and Jones at ILB. Having Burnett covering Graham as his core responsibility. Jones spies on Wilson. We can’t let Wilson get loose. But, we have to be aggressive in our attack of him and Jones is our best option for mirror Wilson’s elusiveness in the open field. Jones is also faster than Wilson. It’s a tall task for the rookie, but this is the type of role that we drafted him for.

Defensively, the Seahawks have some big bodied athletes up front. Michael Bennett leads the charge. Sheldon Richardson was recently acquired and he's among the best DT in all of football. Jarran Reed is a run stuffing DL. Cliff Avril and Frank Clark are pass rushing specialists. The Seahawks still have Bobby Wagner, KJ Wright, Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and Earl Thomas. But, their depth isn't what it once was. This defense can be beaten.

If the Packers try to outmuscle Seattle in the run game, we're in for a long day. But, if we give the game to Rodgers and spread out Seattle, we're going to have a lot of success. They can't cover us. Jeremy Lane is trash talking junk at CB. I'd attack him all game. He can't back-up his talk. He'll be grabbing all game. If the refs are up for it, Lane will get multiple PI calls on him. For big gains. Shaquill Griffin has the tools to become a solid CB, but he's a rookie and I expect Rodgers to target him both early and often.

During the offseason, the Packers signed two new toys on offense to play TE. I envision an offense that plays multiple TE sets. Both TE's are fierce pass blockers and talented receivers. I'm really excited these two TE sets. Early in the game, I wouldn't show it. I'd come with 3-WR, Bennett at TE and Montgomery as the lone RB. Rodgers at QB. In attack mode. Aggressively attacking the Seattle defense. Looking at Griffin and Lane. Then, looking to find Bennett streaking down the middle of the field.

The Packers start win the toss. They kick to Seattle. The rowdy Lambeau faithful elevates. Seattle is forced to punt. Rodgers goes to work. It's a thing of beauty. He looks to Montgomery on the swing pass. Montgomery seeks contact and bulls over Seattle defenders for extra yards. The drive results in a TD as Rodgers finds Bennett for the TD.

Seattle's offense annoys as Wilson wills his way to first downs. He hits Baldwin for first down yardage against Randall. He hits Graham over the middle. He eludes pressure and creates plays.

But, this is Aaron Rodgers' day. Rodgers is in command. He's in rhythm. He hits Nelson on a deep ball for a TD.

RIP punches the Seattle defense in the mouth.

In all, Montgomery gets 20 touches. Rodgers hits 7 different receivers and tosses 3 TD's. The defense grabs three sacks and forces two turnovers. It's a season opening celebration!

Packers 30.
Seattle 20.

Go Pack Go!

Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
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