Tuesday, October 17, 2017

My Take -> Week 7

Greetings, G-Force.

Dear, Football Gods. Have mercy on us. Sure, you can strip away the NFL’s MVP from us. But, to take our Pro Bowl Tackles from us and our budding star at Guard away in the same game? Well, that’s not fair. I’m not crying. I’m being real. All I’m looking for is a fighting chance. Let me continue to be real: a lot of people want to blog or write as a journalist. I’m a blogger. A Packers blogger. It’s easy to sit down and write when you’re pondering the amazement of Brett Favre or Aaron Rodgers. For me, as a lover of the Green Bay Packers, it’s just as easy to write about Brett Hundley. If you’re reading someone who makes you feel differently, you’re looking in the wrong place. This is not a time for doldrums. This is a time for unity. A time to come together. A time to help ensure that we do everything in our power to help this team go 8-0 at Lambeau Field. Go 8-0 at home and 2-6 on the road, finish 10-6. See what happens. Further, when looking at the road schedule, we have games against Chicago and Cleveland. I’d like to think we can win those game with Hundley. While, yes, the outlook is bleak, if we take care of Lambeau, we have a shot at a January run. You owe it to yourself to be as rowdy as possible at Lambeau this week. You owe it to the Green Bay Packers organization to be loud and to be proud this weekend. You owe it to Aaron Rodgers to go to Lambeau Field and to make a difference this weekend. Let’s get this team to 8-0 at home this year.

Don’t just do as I say. Do as I do. I’m headed to Lambeau this weekend. Flying in on Thursday night. Flying out on Monday. I’m going to do everything in my power to help get the win this weekend.

As I write, the Widespread Panic 2012 Wood tour spins. Love the acoustic feel. The sound quality is absolutely perfect on this album. I’m super stoked to couple a Packers weekend with a music. Excited to see good friends in Milwaukee for the Friday Night WSP show. Hoping to hear JoJo’s keys taking over the show so that the Irish dancing legs are swinging.

Here are my quick vibes over the last week:

* Enough of the talk about Kaep joining. It’s not a political thing. It’s being real. This team has enough distractions and Mike McCarthy has invested significant time in Brett Hundley. If Brett Hundley is the guy and he helps push the Packers to the playoffs, then after the season, the Packers will be in position to trade Hundley for a top 45 pick. If Hundley is not the guy, well then the Packers will have two top 45 picks as we’ll be among in the bottom half of the league. But, the Packers have to see what they have in Hundley. The Packers have to give him the rest of the year. They’ve invested time in Hundley. Now, we have to see if we can reap the rewards of that time investment. In order to see Hundley perform, the Packers need their OL together. We need Bakhtiari, Taylor and Bulaga healthy. Without them, it’s impossible to make an accurate assessment as to the quality of Hundley’s play.

* Martellus Bennett. Wow. Dude. We need better. Much better. I expected Bennett to be a passionate, physical force who brought a sure handed presence to the middle of field.

* Gotta make that catch, Ty. That was an easy 6 points. We needed it. Different ball game if it’s 14-14 at that point in the game.

* Blake Martinez is flashing Pro Bowl potential. He’s everywhere. Wish he’d have grabbed the pick, but man, he’s putting himself in position and he’s making plays.

* Kenny Clark gets better and better each and every week. He, too, is flashing Pro Bowl potential. He takes on the double team and anchors. He releases and pushes through. He eats ball carriers. He’s a force on the interior.

* Liked Quinton Dial’s push. He’s been a really solid addition.

* Another highly productive game from Clay Matthews. He’s playing better than he has since 2014.

* Really quiet game for Nick Perry. Needed him to step up. He didn’t.

* Great to see that Biegel is going to get practice reps this week. Fackrell can’t play.

* Plug that hole, Jake Ryan! Should’ve stepped up and taken McKinnon to the floor at the goal line. Would’ve forced 4th down.

* Kentrell Brice has had a rough year trying to make tackles in the open field. I expected so much more. A part of me thinks they should give Evans a look over Brice.

* Mike Daniels. We need Mike Daniels to be the guy that he was against Seattle. He was a superstar then. He’s been slightly above average since his return from injury. Daniels has to be a difference maker.

* Loved Dean Lowry’s motor. Great hustle play-in and play-out. Disruptive a handful of plays.

* Lenzy Pipkins impressed. Like his size and his athleticism. He should be our slot CB from here on out. Without a question.

* Really hope Lane Taylor is ok. That injury looked bad.

* I'm not going to complain about the officiating, but man, it felt like the Packers caught a lot of tough breaks. Felt like the officiating was one-sided. Especially the 3rd down pass to McKinnon that clearly hit the ground and went for a first down. How does the ref miss that? It clearly hit the ground. It would've given the Packers the ball back trailing 14-10. Instead, the 'queens went down an added a FG. Blatant missed call and it shifted momentum.

* The #1 thing that the Packers have to focus on in practice this week is blitz pick-up. Hundley was not seeing the pre-snap blitz. It was obvious on TV. It was not so obvious for Hundley during his first significant regular season action. Not only does Hundley have to study, but so does Aaron Jones. Together, they were clueless with respect to identifying the disguise of the ‘queens blitzes.

* Jerod Evans was a solid signing. Like him as a Practice Squad developmental player. He has great athleticism. He's mobile. He has a big arm. He seeks the big play. He needs maturity. He's going to take time to develop. I like having him in the Packers QB room.

* Brad Kaaya was just released. I don’t love his mobility, but he has tools to be a pro style drop back QB. He’d be an interesting name for the Packers to consider as a developmental prospect.

* This really felt like it was our year. The overall quality of play in the NFL is at an all-time low. Injuries aren’t just affecting the Packers, but they seem to be hurting more teams than not. It felt as though the Packers were playing at a level above the rest of the NFL. Rodgers was playing at an MVP level. It appeared as though we were primed for a serious run at the Super Bowl. It felt as though that playoff run was going to go through Green Bay with the Packers as the #1 seed. Now, in many ways, it’s up to us. Yes, it’s up to the fans to be supportive and to help propel this team to victory in what will be an extremely emotional contest this weekend. If we can win this weekend, we can regroup during the bye at 5-2. We can be overly prepared for a date with the Lions at Lambeau after the bye. If we own Lambeau, everything is possible. We can’t get down on this team. We can’t get frustrated. This team needs us to keep the faith. This team needs us to stay positive. As fans, we can’t focus on a playoff run. We have to focus on the play at hand. As fans, we have to make a difference each and every play. As we saw in Minnesota, you never know when that game changing – and potentially season changing – play is going to happen.

* Here are some reasons that I feel we shouldn’t give up on the year: Mike McCarthy is a demanding Head Coach with a history of winning in the NFL. If healthy, we have an OL that is among the best in the NFL. I assume that most, if not all, of our OL are going to be available after the bye. I have great confidence in Adams, Cobb, Allison, and Nelson. Aaron Jones and Ty Montgomery should make up a solid rotation at RB. Kenny Clark, Mike Daniels, Dean Lowry, Quinton Dial, Blake Martinez, Clay Matthews, Nick Perry, Ahmad Brooks, Josh Jones, Morgan Burnett, Marwin Evans, Kentrell Brice and HaHa Clinton-Dix are winners. The Packers have 5 games on the schedule at Lambeau Field. I’m hopeful that Davon House and Kevin King can be answers at CB on the perimeter along with Lenzy Pipkins in the slot. If so, we’ll be competitive throughout. And, if Hundley can limit turnovers, I think we can win more games than we lose.

This week - it's the Saints. At Lambeau. I can't wait to be in attendance. The Packers need their Faithful to be rowdy. I promise to do my part.

The Saints offense has found their stride. Drew Brees is in control. He's whipping the ball around. He's using all of his weapons. Michael Thomas and Ted Ginn have been good targets. Ginn is often used on the end around. Sometimes as a disguise. Either way, when Ginn is in motion, good things are happening for the Saints offense. Thomas is a do-it-all kind of WR. Brandon Coleman is a big, long striding target who can get downfield and win jump balls. Josh Hill and Michael Hoomanawanui are good blocking TE's. Both are possession receivers who like to sit in the soft spot of the zone. When used properly, Coby Fleener is a talented who can get down the seam. The Saints have invested wisely on their OL and they're reaping the rewards. Terron Armstead and Ryan Ramczyk are skilled Tackles. Max Unger is a star at Center. Andrus Peat and Larry Warford are tough, big bodied Guards. At RB, the Saints have a great combination in Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara. Kamara is fast becoming a top-flight RB. Ingram has found his stride. Not only are Kamara and Ingram dangerous runners, but they're both lethal in the pass game. The Saints will run a number of different screen plays. Those plays will have great disguise. They'll confuse the Packers front. And, if the Packers happen to be blitzing on the screen play, the Saints are likely to find big results. It wouldn't stun me to see Kamara and Ingram combining for 10+ receptions this weekend. The Saints count on Kamara and Ingram to grab yardage in big chunks. Thus far, they've produced.

The Saints defense has been opportunistic. Cameron Jordan is an absolute beast at DE. Sheldon Rankins moves people on the interior. Tyeler Davison is a try-hard defender with an endless motor. Alex Okafor can get to the QB. He's a tireless pass rusher. AJ Klein is a work-hard ILB who finds the football. Klein lacks speed, but has heart. Kenny Vaccaro flies around the field. Marshon Lattimore is a solid rookie CB. Ken Crawley can be attacked at CB. He can cover any of the Packers WR's. He's the wink link. Rafael Bush is a below average safety. Vonn Bell hasn't been the CB that the Saints imagined.

The Packers have to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. This game starts with Kenny Clark, Mike Daniels, Dean Lowry, Quinton Dial, Clay Matthews, Ahmad Brooks and Nick Perry. If those 7 players can't dominate the line, this is going to be a long day for the Packers. But, if we can stop the run and get in Brees' face, the Packers will get off the field. We might even force turnovers. If I'm Dom Capers, Jake Ryan wouldn't see much time. I'd give the game to Josh Jones. We need Jones' speed in attack mode. Pin the ears back, Double-J, and get after them. Jones can match up with Kamara. I'm not sure that we have anyone else who can.

If King and House can play, I actually like the way the Packers match up with the Saints on the outside. I expect the Packers to force a turnover or two. Without King and House, it could be a rough day for the Packers secondary. The Packers need King and House in a big way. Not just this week, but every week.

Instead of the screen pass, look for the Packers to get the ball to Jones and Montgomery in the flat on swing passes. The design of the screen pass hasn't worked this year. McCarthy switches it up and gets the ball to Montgomery and Jones as they're on the run attacking the Saints defense. Hundley finds his rhythm. He hits Adams on the back shoulder. He connects with Nelson deep down the middle of the field. He finds Cobb on a quick out for a first down. Hundley stays within himself. He uses his legs to pick up first downs. He's cool. He's calm. He's confident.

Look for Pipkins to make a play coming on a safety blitz.

With the temperatures calling for 62 degrees and rain, look for Jones and Montgomery to show their worth as mudders.

Look for Daniels and Clark to control the line of scrimmage.

Bakhtiari, Taylor and Bulaga gut it out. With a bye coming and a week to rest, they know the importance.

Josh Jones forces a turnover.

Jordy finds the end zone.

Packers 20.
Saints 19.

Go Pack Go!

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

Thursday, October 12, 2017

My Take -> Week 6

Greetings, G-Force.

4-1! The Packers went to Dallas. The Stars were shining big. The Stars were shining bright. Deep in the heart of Texas' football livelihood. And, the biggest Star was shining brightest. Aaron Rodgers. In control. Determined to grab home field throughout the playoffs. Knowing the importance of winning a crucial NFC game against the team that possessed home field throughout last years playoffs. It was absolutely phenomenal drama. A sensational victory. It was the type of game that write historical legends. An instant classic. A fairy tale finish that brought the Packers to Four and Freakin' One.

I'm listening to the Hard Working Americans "We're All In This Together" album. Always enjoy the purity of live music and the way it translates to wax. The album has so much personality. A wide variety of musical flavor. Highly profound bass bombs bouncing through the speakers. "School Day" is a must listen. Fun, happy musical vibes with powerful vocal tones. Love the way that Green Bay's own, Chad Staehly, says hello on the keys in the "We're All In This Together" funkified jam. Much like the Green Bay Packers, this music promotes unification. It promotes love. It promotes togetherness. I'm with ya, HWA. Peace, yo. Keep stompin'. Keep hollerin'.

Here are my quick thoughts over the last week:

* Mike McCarthy. He knew the importance. He was bullish on his offense. Full of confidence. Ready to throw his chips to the middle of the table. It was telling when he said that Dallas couldn't stop his offense. He was right. His 4th & 1 toss to Aaron Jones brought extreme joy to my soul. It was a throwback to the old school Jon Gruden kinda call. The one he used to call for Charlie Garner. Just get the quick kid in space. Let him show his shake.

* Dom Capers. His defense showed vulnerability, yes. But, consider this: the Packers took the Cowboys strongest punch. They did everything they could to throw a dagger. They went to their playmakers. Elliott had 30 touches. Witten was targeted 10 times. Bryant was targeted 8. Dallas knew that they needed the win. Capers defense kept getting to 3rd down. They struggled to get off the field. And, when they stopped on 3rd down, there was either a phantom flag or the Cowboys converted on 4th down. But, in the 2nd half, the Packers needed stops. Here were the Cowboys drives in the 2nd Half: Punt, FG, Interception that was returned for a TD, TD, Fumble. So, in essence, the defense was outscored 10-7 in the 2nd half. It wasn't a masterful performance by the defense, but it was enough to put Aaron Rodgers in position to win. On the road. Against an NFL powerhouse. I'll take that every single time.

* Rodgers high-stepping for a first down on the game winning third down play is a moment that could live on forever. It's the type of moment that could be a defining image of what leads to a Super season.

* Aaron Jones. Decisive. Extraordinary vision. I admit - I was wrong on him. I worried that he might lack the speed to play at a high level. It concerned me. But, he's fast enough. His quickness has shown. And, he knows how to accelerate. His ability to appear as though he was shifting direction without wasted steps or much variance is not something you can coach. It's instinctive. He does a great job selling his run to the outside and then cutting it back. He's showed enough power to step through arm tackles. He's also shown football smarts. Additionally, how about that catch along the sideline? Wow. In mental lock step with Rodgers. And, clearly, Rodgers is comfortable with him.

* In some ways, the injury to Ty might be a blessing. As long as the injury doesn't linger. We have a rotation at RB. Jones and Montgomery should compliment each other well. RIP will eventually see added carries as well. For now, it appears as though the RB position is solidified.

* Mike McCarthy trusted his tackles. And, because of it, we were able to see a glimpse as to how the Packers plan on using Martellus Bennett. Good to see him moved around. Good to see him standing up in the slot and on the outside. Good to see him sealing the edge in the run game as a blocker. When Bakhtiari comes back, I expect to see Bennett utilized as even more of a focal point. His sideline catch was true brilliance. His reception for a 1st down on the final drive was dynamite. I'm still anxious for him to be utilized in the Red Zone. Let's hope he can build upon this performance.

* Lance Kendricks is averaging 15.7 yards per catch this year.

* Lane Taylor. Earning that extension. Balling hard. He's been our best back-up Tackle.

* Way to gut it out, Bulaga. This team is so much better with Bulaga on the field.

* Jahri Evans has been a super FA acquisition.

* Corey Linsley had a couple of really tough moments, but overall, I'll take it.

* Justin McCray really stepped up. He missed the block on the final run play, which led to nothing and forced to call a timeout. Had a made the block, it'd have been an opportunity for Jones to make his way to the 3rd level. That was a bummer, but other than that play, I thought McCray played really admirably.

* Aaron Rodgers. 1 minute drill. WITH AUTHORITY! Amazing to find out that he was calling the plays as well.

* Rodgers to Adams. Book it.

* Adams really showed that karma is a thing. A week after getting sent to the hospital on a cheap shot, he's digging deep to get up and secure a jump ball to earn the victory. Gamer.

* Jordy Nelson. End zone. Hand in hand.

* Randall Cobb. Total team player. Getting in the mix as a blocker. He's a feisty blocker. Really opened up Bennett for a first down on the final drive.

* Bobsled on, boys.

* Richard Rodgers showing some athleticism on the back shoulder reception.

* We've often heard Mike McCarthy talk about players making the leap from Year 1 to Year 2. I think it plays a role - in large part - due to the fact that the new CBA doesn't allow players to do much hitting in practice. So, the learning curve is longer than it was previously. The Packers 2nd year players are taking huge leaps on the defensive side of the ball. Kenny Clark is living on the oppositions side of the line of scrimmage. Dean Lowry is moving people. And, Blake Martinez looks amped. Martinez has taken his game up multiple notches. He's a completely different dude. He's intense. He's flying through the hole. He's been dominant through 5 games. He's following Kenny Clark's lead and because of it, he's been a difference maker. Clark and Martinez compliment each other well. Clark gets the push, but often doesn't make the tackle. Martinez has trusted Clark's ability to win his 1 on 1 battle and he's followed closely behind and he's often making his tackles without having to fight off blocks.

* Nick Perry was inches from having three sacks. Against most QB's, he would've. But, give credit to Dak Prescott. Guy can play. He muscled through Perry's attempts. Regardless, Perry was active and breaking down plays.

* Clay Matthews. Teammate. Dropping into coverage. Knocking away passes. Forcing 3rd and 8 on a vital 4th Quarter drive as he jarred the pass to Witten loose. The Claymaker finished with 5 tackles, 1 tackle for loss and 1 pass defensed. Great game.

* Injuries can sometimes show your coaches things that they have in players that they didn't know they had. It forces teams to evolve. It can be healthy for a team as long as the injuries aren't season ending. I hope Morgan Burnett's injury doesn't linger. He's the play caller of the defense. But, if he is injured and it opens up the door for Marwin Evans to play more, then I'm eager to see what Evans offers.

* Thought Q Rollins played better in the run game. Stuck his nose into contact. However, he struggles mightily in coverage.

* DAMARIOUS RANDALL WITH THE TD! Game altering play! Hopefully, the play sparks confidence in him. HaHa calls him the most athletic player in the secondary. Need to see that out of him while King and House battle injuries.

* Justin Vogel's 59 yard punt that pinned Dallas back prior to the Randall interception was the field position changing play that the Packers have missed in recent memory. Further, Janis' tackle was fantastic. Monster play.

* Need HaHa to return to form.

* Ahmad Brooks punishes people. He knows one speed and only one speed.

I did a Fanspeak Mock Draft. As is the norm, I'm short on OL knowledge at the college level and I only draft someone if I have watched him play. Here's what I came away with:

Round 1: Tony Brown, CB, Alabama. I wanted Bradley Chubb, OLB, NC State. The auto-draft had me picking 30th. He was selected 26th. So, I went with Brown to help patch up the CB position.
Round 2: Quenton Meeks, CB, Stanford. Ideal length. Turn and run CB. Tough guy.
Round 3a: Chad Thomas, EDGE, []_[]. Thomas disrupts with length. Holds the point of attack. His game should translate really well as an early down 3-4 EDGE player.
Round 3b: Lorenzo Carter, EDGE, Georgia. I am enamored with the way he gets the corner. Has a nose for the strip sack. Has been really active in pursuit of the QB.
Round 4: TJ Edwards, LB, WI. Took him over Steven Parker from OK. Went with the homer pick. Edwards is always around the ball. He looks thicker than he was last year. And, because of it, I feel like he might be a little slower, but he's still always around the ball.
Round 5a: Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa. Slashy back who falls forward and plays with good balance. One cut runner. His game fits in GB. He's an elusive highlight film runner. Great vision. Finds the open field. Overly productive. Finds the sticks.
Round 5b: Dee Delaney, CB, []_[]. Game hasn't flashed this year like I thought it would. The Coastal Carolina transfer has been more of a project than I projected. Still, he has all of the natural ability that you look for in a perimeter CB. Looks like he has the speed to play, too.
Round 6a: Jake Roh, TE, Boise State. Athletic player. Willing blocker. Can move him around the field. Nose for the end zone.
Round 6b: Cody Thompson, WR, Toledo. NFL size. Highly productive. Gets downfield. Catches the ball and stride and gets downfield. Guy puts points on the board.
Round 6c: Deadrin Senat, DL, South Florida. Battling injuries this year. He moves people off the line. Wins his one-on-one battle. Good athlete for his size.
Round 7a: Kyzir White, S, Dub-V. Active defender. Finds the football. Can cover in the slot or play in center field. Hard hitter. Solid tackler.
Round 7b: Justin Crawford, RB, Dub-V. Enamored with his game. Plays bigger than he looks. So quick. Reminds me of a poor man's Jamal Charles. Not sure how he lasted this far, but he did. I view him as a 5th round prospect. HR hitter who can take it the distance every time he touches the ball.

This week - it's the 'queens. In Minnesota. A win and the Packers grab a 2-game lead over the hated 'queens. Notably, Minnesota would also fall to 1-2 in the Division. The Packers would move to 2-0 in the Division. This is a big game. A must win for Minnesota. A chance for the Packers to toss a heavy blow at the 'queens as the weather starts to turn.

Even with the injuries, the 'queens have weapons on offense. Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs are as underrated of a WR duo as their is in the NFL. Thielen is a Pro Bowl quality WR. Diggs is inconsistent, but when he's full focused and healthy, he's an elite level WR. Both run solid routes and can get deep down the field. Kyle Rudolph is among the best TE's in the NFL. Jerick McKinnon is a gifted receiving RB and when he's responsible for carrying the bulk of the load, he follows his lead blocker with excellence. Latavius Murray is talented, but has yet to make his impact in Minnesota. I expect Case Keenum to start. Bradford didn't look healthy. Keenum has played very well for Minnesota. He can connect on all routes. He isn't turnover prone. He can roll-out. He throws a nice deep ball. He was a good signing. The 'queens revamped their OL. Thus far, their Tackles have played better than I expected them to play. Riley Reiff has been more physical in Minnesota than he was in Detroit. Mike Remmers has trouble sustaining blocks, but he usually wins the initial jab. Nick Easton and Joe Berger have been solid plug and plays at Guard. Neither of them intimidate, but they do a good job throwing their weight around. Pat Elflein has been an anchor for the 'queens at Center.

The 'queens have as much continuity as anyone on the defensive side of the ball. And, they're healthy. They're disruptive and they force turnovers. When the Minnesota defense isn't forcing turnovers, the 'queens aren't winning. Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen get off the ball with lightning like quickness. They're great at guessing the snap count. They're also vulnerable to jumping offsides on the hard count, which can lead to free plays. Brian Robison is a hard working rotational DE at this stage of his career. Linval Joseph is a fierce presence in the middle of the field. Tom Johnson is active at DT, but he can be moved. Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks are absolute studs at LB. Both are looking for a big play every snap. At CB, Xavier Rhodes continue to be a shut down CB. But, outside of him, the 'queens CB's can be beaten. Trae Waynes is a grabber. He doesn't get his head turned. Terence Newman can no longer run and can be beaten over the top. Mackensie Alexander lacks toughness. He can be abused. Outside of Seattle, Minnesota might have the best safety combination in football with Andrew Sendejo and Harrison Smith.

You can't let Marcus Sherels beat you on special teams. It'll be up to Janis to shut him down on punt returns. It's interesting to note that while the Packers don't typically look to return kickoffs that reach the end zone, the 'queens almost always return kickoffs. They're looking for a big play on special teams. Look for the Packers to take a knee nearly every time, while the 'queens attempt to shorten the field.

This is Minnesota's Super Bowl. They can't afford to start off 3-3. They're healthy on the defensive side of the ball and they know they need this win. Look for the 'queens to come out swinging. They attack Rodgers with a multitude of blitzes. Look for Kendricks to come on delayed blitzes. Look for Harrison Smith to read plays and come on highly strategic blitzes as he creeps towards the line of scrimmage. The Packers combat the 'queens strategy by putting Jordy in the slot. Expect to see more of GERONIMO on the field as well this week. Minnesota doesn't have the CB depth to cover the Packers. I don't envision empty sets per se, but you might see some 4 WR formations with a back. And, you could possibly see 4 WR's and a TE in which Rodgers motions Cobb into the backfield as a blocker. I envision GERONIMO getting over the top for a big play. Davante, too.

Minnesota is going to try and eat clock. Utilizing a strategy similar to Dallas last week. They'll take the play clock down. They'll get Rudolph involved. They'll hit the Packers with a variety of slants and crossing routes to Thielen and Diggs. Then, they'll try to beat the Packers over the top on play action to both Diggs and Thielen. Minnesota feels like they win on the outside if they can protect Keenum. I think the Packers Defensive front wins the battle.

Expect Nick Perry to plow through Riley Reiff for a sack.

Expect Clay to outwork Remmers for a sack.

Expect Mike Daniels and Kenny Clark to win the interior of the line of scrimmage.

Look for Josh Jones to play an integral role in slowing McKinnon. Man-to-Man.

GERONIMO is my surprise player of the game.

Packers 23.
'queens 20.

Go Pack Go!

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










Saturday, October 7, 2017

My Take -> Week 5

Greetings, G-Force.

3-1. It'd never get old watching the Packers absolutely dominating the Bears on National TV. Yes, THE BEARS STILL SUCK! From the start, it was pure destruction. The Packers were immensely more gifted in all three phases of the game. The city boys from the most pathetic state in America made their way north through the farmlands of Wisconsin to play football in the town that has won more World Football Championships than anyone else. Again, the Bears proved their worth. The 35-14 Packers victory was true joy. THE BEARS STILL SUCK.

I listen to Michael Franti's 2008 release All Rebel Rockers. What a great piece of vinyl. Went to see Franti in Taos, NM last weekend. Get to see him in CO this weekend. I'm spoiled. Michael Franti is my musical spirit animal. His music brings balance to my life. Plainly stated, "Hey World" is an epic tune. If you aren't familiar with Franti's music. Get to a gym. Put your headphones in. Block out everything around you. Listen to the All Rebel Rockers album. Don't blame me when you're hooked.

Here are my quick vibes from the last week:

* I have mad respect for Mike McCarthy. He hasn't had his two tackles on the field for a play over the first four games. His Pro Bowl Left Tackle has played one game. His star RT has played 2.5 Quarters. His star slot WR has missed a game. Then, against the Bears he lost his top two RB's early in the game. He was without his top 5 Tackles on his roster entering the season. Yes, his top FIVE Tackles entering the season were not on the field. He played with 4 Guards. That's unheard of. Still, he dropped 35 freakin' points on the Bears ass. Silly Chicago fools. The BEARS STILL SUCK. And, Mike McCarthy is a wizard.

* Dom Capers has been really impressive thus far. He's mixed and matched his defenses to mirror the opponents perceived game plan to perfection. He's made adjustments. He's drafted up a variety of blitzes. He's had 4 safeties on the field at a time. He's been without Mike Daniels. Nick Perry has had one hand. He's been without Davon House. Brice has missed time. Jake Ryan has missed time. He's had to adjust due to the fact that Q Rollins can't play and Damarious Randall is a selfish, me-first athlete. Capers deserves significant props.

* The Packers have been decimated with injuries through 4 games. Most coaching staffs would've been happy at 2-2 with the injuries that the Packers have endured. But, 1-3 would've been the likely scenario. Mike McCarthy and Dom Capers have the Packers atop the NFC at 3-1.

* The Packers have to win one of the next two games on the road. The mission is 8-0 at home and 4-4 on the road. 5-3 on the road gets you home field throughout. 4-4 gets you a first round bye and a shot at home field throughout. In order to do so, the Packers need at least one of the next two road games.

* Aaron Rodgers. In MVP form. Through 4 weeks, he's on the short list of MVP contenders. He's using all of his tools. He's been cerebral. He's been mobile. It feels as though he's used the middle of the field more than he has in recent memory. He's been quicker to get rid of the ball. He was 18-26 with 4 TD's against the hated Bears. And, he's yet to play his best football.

* Get healthy, Ty. We need you, my man.

* Aaron Jones. Have to admit: he surprised me. He looked quicker than he did all preseason. He looked animated. He showed the burst to get to the edge. He was light on his feet. He put his head down and got tough yards. Suddenly, I'm anxious to see more of Jones.

* It was nice to see RIP getting a carry. It didn't surprise me to see him get 4 yards on his lone run. On his one catch, he gained 6 yards. As the season wears, I imagine we'll see RIP getting more involved in this offense.

* Flex on, Davante. You're created with otherworldly hands. Tough as nails.

* Randall Cobb. Sporting yellow gloves. Loved the look. 11 yards a catch out of the slot. And, a beauty of a TD. The route was drafted to perfection.

* Jordy Nelson in the end zone. Joyful!

* Martellus Bennett was supposed to be our prized FA. Due to injuries, he's essentially been a blocker thus far. Had to like his 3rd and 1 catch on the opening drive of the game. Fantastic play design in a 3-TE set. McCarthy used his tools and Bennett got loose and came up with a big play.

* Tip of the cap to Lane Taylor. Really nutted up. He's off to a great start in 2017.

* Corey Linsley. Playing as though he's in a contract year. He's earning his keep. Dude gonna get paid!

* Thought Lucas Patrick really played well for his first real game action.

* Jahri Evans is settling in nicely. Had a great game. He's really steadied himself the last couple of weeks.

* I'm still pining to see Bennett used as a Red Zone weapon.

* I keep waiting to see Jordy in the slot. But, that can't happen until we get our tackles. Then, Bennett can go out wide. Jordy can man the middle. Both could do damage.

* Thought Jake Ryan played with good speed in the middle of the field.

* Blake Martinez was an absolute bruiser.

* Kenny Clark was manning up at the line of scrimmage.

* Quinton Dial was tough to move off the ball.

* Ahmad Brooks with another solid game. Great signing by TT!

* CLAY MATTHEWS! ALL TIME SACK LEADER IN PACKERS HISTORY! The strip sack was a game changer. Set up the 2-score lead. Tremendous play by Clay. He also forced the overthrow on the Brice interception. Clay has been a stallion to start the season.

* Nice to see HaHa and Brice grabbing interceptions. Neither has been an impressive tackler to start the year, but I hope the interceptions get their year jump started.

* Josh Jones needs to be on the field. Period.

* Fun to see Josh Hawkins step up when he was put to the task. 3 passes defensed. Impressive showing. Had 5 tackles. Threw his body around.

* Awesome pass break-up by Joe Thomas. Game changing play.

* Nick Perry brings the intensity to this defense.

* Trevor Davis needs confidence. He needs to catch and go. Stop the dancing. Start running. Straight at the defense on special teams. A little hip shake and go. Not every return needs to be focused on a TD, but let's try to get 7-10 yards at a minimum. Take the ball up the field with heightened speed.

This week - it's the Cowboys. In Dallas. This new stadium has been good to the Green Bay Packers. It's brought us the XLV title. It's brought us the sublime Matt Flynn comeback. It's brought us the instant classic in last years playoffs. Hopefully, this week adds to the legend.

The Cowboys have a plethora of talent. Dak Prescott has not had the start to the season that he'd have liked, but he's a weapon every time he touches the ball. He beats you with his legs and he's had a pension for hitting the deep ball on busted plays this year. Dez Bryant and Terrance Williams are lethal WR's who rack up yards after the catch. Brice Butler is a solid deep ball receiver. Cole Beasley is a dangerous slot WR. Ryan Switzer is a rookie WR who is dangerous as a PR and a dangerous slot WR. The Cowboys OL isn't the same as it was last year, but Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and Zack Martin are as good as any in the league at their positions. La'el Collins is a fast rising RT. Jonathan Cooper can be beaten at LG. That's the match-up the Packers have to win. Jason Witten remains a reliable TE. Zeke Elliott should be suspended. But, he's not. And, he's a threat every time he touches the ball. He falls forward as well as anyone in the league. He's as good as any runner in football.

Defensively, Dallas relies on speed on the edge. Demarcus Lawrence ducks his shoulder underneath the Tackle and explodes towards the QB. Taco Charlton and Tyrone Crawford to the same not he opposite side. Lawrence leads the league in sacks. Maliek Collins has been a solid run stopper. Stephen Paea has proved tough to move on the interior. David Irving is a force on the DL. When Sean Lee is healthy, this Dallas defense balls out. When he isn't, the defense can be picked apart. If Anthony Hitchens can play, he'll be disruptive. Jaylon Smith is a Dallas Cowboy. I can't stand that. For those that have followed my blog for a while, you know that I wanted Smith in Green Bay. He'll be a Pro Bowler some day. The Cowboys secondary is a work in progress. Jeff Heath is a steady safety, but he lacks height and speed. He wins with smarts, not athleticism. Byron Jones wins with athleticism, but you can beat him on double moves. Chidobe Awuzie has been banged up and might not play. Jourdan Lewis has the makings of a star slot, but due to injuries he's been forced to play on the outside. He won't be savvy enough to cover Jordy. He won't be athletic enough to cover Davante on the outside. Orlando Scandrick is among the best blitzing slot CB's in football.

The crowd will be hyped. The stadium will be amped. The Cowboys are 2-2. They can't afford a loss. A win would do wonders for the Packers when it comes down to December tie breakers in the NFC. This is a meaningful game for both teams. In a big way.

Look for the Cowboys to blitz often from the edges. I anticipate a wide variety of blitzes that challenge the Packers RB's to block. The Cowboys know that they'll struggle to get pressure with just 4 men, if the Packers OL is at full strength. So, it's vital for the Packers to prepare for the blitz. If Rodgers is protected, he'll have opportunities for big plays.

I expect that both teams will try to run clock. Both teams know this will be a tight battle. Both teams know that it'll be a physical contest on the line of scrimmage. Both teams know that they have to keep the oppositions offense off the field to rest their defense.

Turnovers and sacks will tell the story. Whoever wins those battles will win the game.

With the electricity at full blast, the Cowboys try to pound away at the heart of the Packers defense. Elliott blasts his way to the third level of the Packers defense. Prescott rolls out on play action and hits Williams on a comeback route. Prescott hits Witten on a come back route. Kevin King breaks up a ball to Dez Bryant to end the drive. The Cowboys settle for 3.

The Packers respond. With their Tackles at full strength, McCarthy gets to open the playbook. We see Bennett involved in the offense. Split out wide. He's a mismatch. Rodgers connects with him on the slant. He powers forward for added yards. Nelson catches one up the seam and splits the safeties for a big gain. It's Rodgers to Bennett in the corner of the end zone for the TD.

It's back and forth. Aaron Jones has a big play in the screen game. We see Cobb in the backfield and he's catching passes as an outlet receiver.

Rodgers is in rhythm. He's not to be denied. In a nail biter, like last year, he leads a late drive. Crosby is money at the buzzer.

Clay grabs a sack. So, does Perry. Daniels disrupts. Martinez continues to have a stellar 2017.

Brice grabs a pick.

Jordy has a TD.

Packers 30.
Cowboys 27.

Mama. Don't let your babies grow up to be Cowboys.

Go Pack Go!

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