Greetings, G-Force.
I am finally on board. There is no reason to play more than two preseason games. I’m sick of seeing serious injuries in games that do not have relevance on the season.
As I write, I listen to Phish’s 9/2/18 show. Each year - Phish spends Labor Day weekend in CO. I’m amped for this. I sip a Crooked Stave 2013 Nightmare on Brett. It still brings a pungent sour punch. The carbonation remains powerful. Whiskey aged, it buzzes.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
This really hurts to say, but the Kizer experiment might be a bust. I believed in him. I thought he was a legitimate NFL prospect. I thought he was a talented back-up QB who could be groomed into a starter. That might still be the case, but he’s nowhere near ready to be the #2 QB. There’s no doubt that Tim Boyle is more game-ready today. It feels like it’ll be really difficult for the Packers to keep 3 QBs on the roster this year since two of them would be developmental prospects.
The Curtis Bolton injury is gutting. It felt like Bolton was a lock for the team. It seemed as though Gutekunst might’ve uncovered an UDFA gem that could contribute in Year 1. I’m worried about the severity of the injury.
Dexter Williams showed glimpses of the burst that he can bring to the position. If he has the blocking to get through the DL, he could be a dangerous weapon. But, stay focused, Dexter!
With Lancaster, Keke and Adams; the Packers appear to have three young, hungry and quick defenders who are extremely comfortable playing in the rotation. I wish Fadol Brown has been healthy as he also fit into the mold. Even though we haven’t seen much of Brown in camp, I’m hoping that there is a roster spot for him.
It was nice to see Gary bringing his hunger to the field again. He didn’t get home, but he forced the QB off of the spot. I’m grateful that the injury doesn’t seem too serious.
Cole Madison is highly inconsistent. He’s clearly still getting reacclimatized to the game. I still believe that he has the potential to develop into a starting NFL Guard when he kicks off the rust.
I’ve read speculation that Lane Taylor could be traded or released. To me, that’d be silly. Taylor has a team friendly cap number and has been battle tested. It finally feels like the Packers have a little depth on the offensive line. I would not part ways with Taylor. I would be willing to trade Lucas Patrick or McCray for a late round pick though.
Going into Training Camp, it was easy to think Gutekunst wanted to enter the 2020 NFL Draft with 10 picks. With the Reggie Gilbert trade, he now has 9 picks. I’d think he’s trying to add another. If he’d have been able to grab one for Daniels, he’d be all set.
The ESB injury complicated things for the Packers. He’s deserving of a roster spot and I suppose that the Packers could IR him, but it’s a big bummer.
Chandon Sullivan has been a bright spot all camp. He’s around the ball, he’s aggressive and he plays with confidence. He’s awfully tough to cut. I have to imagine that he’s in contention for a roster spot. King and Hollman have been banged up and TMon showed last year that he is not the same player on the perimeter any more.
Will Redmond and Natrell Jamerson are talented training camp bodies. They’re intelligent, quick, versatile football players who can play the slot, Safety and be contributors on special teams. One should make the team and the other should be on the Practice Squad. Both are ascending, versatile players that play with high end football speed.
I was hoping Gutekunst could muster a late round pick for Josh Jones. What’s painful is that Jones had played best when he was an attacking ILB. With the injuries to Burks and Bolton; Jones’ strengths are exactly what we need! Now, Gutekunst will either have to work magic to acquire a capable ILB or Raven Greene will have to elevate into the role.
Markus Jones does good things in the run game. I like the way he initiated contact and separates off of a blocker.
I was starting to anticipate that Ka’dar Hollman would have an impact on the roster this year. I’m happy he’s back from injury. Would like to see him play this weekend.
If I were the GM, here’s the roster that I’d select, thus far. As a note, it came down to Sullivan, Lazard and Patrick for two spots.
K: Crosby
P: Scott
LS: Bradley
QB: Rodgers and Boyle. I wish I could keep Kizer, but the numbers don’t work and it’s starting to look like Kizer is a really long term project. At this stage, he’s clearly the third best QB on the roster.
RB: Jones, J Williams, D Williams, Vitale. Carson might be more reliable than D Williams today, but there’s no question that D Williams has higher upside. For me, it’s not even close, this spot goes to D Williams.
TE: Graham, Lewis, Sternberger, Tonyan. If any of the other TE’s showed that they could be an effective blocker, Lewis would not be on the team. I really want to see a healthy Sternberger.
OL: Bakhtiari, Taylor, Linsley, Turner, Bulaga, Jenkins, Madison, Light, McCray. Lucas Patrick was a really tough cut, but the secondary depth forced me to keep an additional CB and I like Madison’s long term upside.
WR: Adams, MVS, G-Mo, Lazard, Kumerow, Davis. ESB goes to IR. Lazard has size that you can’t teach. He earns a spot over the continuously impressive Shepherd. Davis earned himself a roster bid in Winnipeg.
DL: Lowry, Clark, Adams, Lancaster, Keke, Brown. Brown’s versatility to slide to the outside helps with the numbers game. The rest should all be guaranteed roster spots.
EDGE: ZSmith, PSmith, Gary, Fackrell. I’d keep Fadol Brown who can also slide to the outside on early downs to hold the point and to give our offseason investments an occasional breather.
ILB: Martinez, Burks, Summers, Crawford. The Bolton injury hurts. We will see a lot of Greene at ILB until Burks is ready. Summers and Crawford can’t be trusted as every down players.
CB: Jaire, King, Josh Jackson, Tony Brown, Hollman, TMon, Sullivan. Sullivan makes the team. Too many injury concerns. Need depth. CB has been a position of strength.
S: Savage, Amos, Greene, Redmond. All along, I expected Jamerson to do what Redmond has done. As I wrote last year when Redmond was added; prior to his injury in college, Redmond was a top tier NFL prospect. With Campbell likely going to the PUP, either Jamerson or Redmond belongs. As of now, I’m tending Redmond.
PUP: Campbell and Roberts.
Practice Squad: Wilkins, Shepherd, Jamerson, Jones, Ramsey, Ford, Nijman, Ento, Looney, Roberts.
Throughout the season, I'll do my best to include a weekly Mock Draft for the 2020 season. I'll do my best to mix up the players on a weekly basis. I have done very little work on the OL prospects and as always, if I haven't studied them, I won't comment.
Round 1: Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn.
Round 2: Trajan Bandy, CB, []_[].
Round 3: Paddy Fisher, ILB, Northwestern.
Round 4: Khalid Kareem, EDGE, ND.
Round 5: Jon Greenard, EDGE, Florida.
Round 6: Khaleke Hudson, ILB, Michigan.
Round 7a: Asmar Bilal, ILB, Notre Dame.
Round 7b: Danny Davis, WR, WI.
Round 7c: Nate Childress, DL, Toledo.
It’s important to go heavy on the Practice Squad at the EDGE position if there are only 4 kept on the active roster.
This week - it’s the Chiefs. At Lambeau. To wrap up the preseason.
Health is the #1 concern. Run a vanilla attack. Keep the ball on the ground and the clock moving on 1st and 2nd down. Then, on 3rd down, look to Sternberger, Lazard and Shepherd. Let the kids do work.
Lazard impresses again!
I wouldn’t play Tonyan. I’d give Sternberger a full game of action. I want to see him work the middle of the field. Look for him to grab 3 balls.
I wouldn’t play Fackrell and Gary. I’d give the game to Jones and Ramsey.
Look for Fadol Brown to be a man on a mission disrupting the line of scrimmage.
Boyle again shows he’s the 2nd best QB on the roster.
Dexter Williams rams his way through the hole.
Sullivan grabs an interception.
Packers 20.
Chiefs 19.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
My Take -> Preseason Week 3
Greetings, G-Force.
Each year, we seem to have one preseason game that looks like what we witnessed in Baltimore. It’s unbearable. It’s unwatchable. For a moment, it makes me think that the depth on the team might not be what I thought it would be. But, generally speaking, the flaw can specifically be pointed in the direction of the QB.
As I write, I listen to the Hip Abduction’s new album called “To the Ends of the Earth.” If I’m going to put added thought into the misery of the 2nd preseason game, I’m going to do so with a positive, Island beat in my head. I sip a 2015 Crooked Stave Hibiscus and Cinnamon beer. The body is still thick. The nose is still sharp. It’s perfectly sour. A good relaxing companion.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
I’m not going to get overly worked up over a preseason game, but in both preseason games, this Packers team doesn’t look like they’re in top fitness shape and they haven’t been overly physical. Those that are playing significant snaps are wearing down quickly. They are missing an enormous amount of tackles. And, against Baltimore, the Ravens were the far more physical team. In the preseason, you can’t judge scheme, but you can assess toughness and conditioning. Thus far, I’m worried that the Packers aren’t in Week 1 game shape.
Really though, after a 2nd watch, outside of the putrid back up QB play and Gary + Dexter Williams falling far short of what I’d hoped for, there were plenty of exciting individual performances.
It’s unbelievable that Gutekunst did not sign a veteran back up QB like Josh Johnson or Josh McCown. If Kizer or Boyle has to play in a regular season game, the Packers would have very little chance of winning. Neither is ready.
G-Mo looks like a legitimate #2 receiver.
I thought MVS did a solid job of run blocking.
Kumerow is a lock for this team.
Thus far, Allen Lazard is the toughest cut on this team. I thought that the Packers might’ve asked him to bulk up, so that he could be used as more of a receiving TE. Instead, he skimmed down and looks like a legit perimeter WR. In fact, in my Draft blog this Spring, I wrote: “Allen Lazard was a sneaky late season addition who could add weight to present himself as a mismatch receiving TE option.” As of now, my top 5 WR are: Adams, G-Mo, MVS, Kumerow, Lazard. For me, he’s surpassed ESB.
Savage covers ground so quickly. Love the way he steps up in the run game.
Z Smith is going to be a lot of fun to watch this year. He’s so quick in space. It’s tough to get a hand on him.
Kenny Clark is a workhorse! He’s poised for another dominating year.
Rashan Gary’s motor lacked fuel.
Keke plays with quickness. He has a deceptive, shifty move to his game that allows him to not get touched and find his way into the backfield.
Darrius Shepherd is making a push for a roster spot. He’s shown that he can be a worthwhile returner. He has good quickness. He’s also a natural slot WR and the Packers don’t seem to have anyone else in that mold. I’m not sure that you absolutely need a true slot WR, but he seems to operate well in short spaces. Can he surpass Davis as the return man?
Dexter Williams. Gulp. He has to catch that screen. The fumble is unacceptable. Disappointing.
Up and down day for Cole Madison. Had moments of dominance using his hips and feet to turn defenders, while sliding laterally. But, he also lost the point in a bull rush.
Same with Elgton Jenkins. Know he was whistled for two penalties - one which was highly questionable - but, he was a force for most of his snaps. He belongs!
Bolton has earned a spot on this team. He attacked the line of scrimmage in the run game. He was in position in the pass game. He was also a force on special teams.
Ty Summers is often in the right place. He needs to finish plays.
James Crawford must intercept that pass and turn it into a pick-6. That was a gimme.
I fantasize at the thought of the Packers signing Nick Perry to a 1-year, veteran’s minimum deal. Perry marinates on the bench for the first 6-weeks and eventually plays a rotational role.
Appears that the Packers are going to try and stash Randy Ramsey and Markus Jones on the practice squad.
It’s clear to me that the Packers do not have a worthwhile backup QB for 2019. I’m not saying that I’d give up on Kizer yet, but he’d be my #3. Boyle would be on the Practice Squad.
With the College Football season beginning next week, I've initiated my 2020 NFL Draft preparations. The plan is to invest significant time in ILB, DL, S, and OT. I'm not as interested in studying the QB positions as I still don't believe that it's in the Packers best interest to develop a QB. I believe that they should be investing in a veteran QB as a back-up to the 2-time MVP. Here is my initial Packers 2020 Mock Draft:
Round 1.) Walker Little, OT, Stanford.
Round 2.) Rashad Lawrence, DL, LSU.
Round 3.) JR Reed, S, Georgia.
Round 4.) Shaquille Quarterman, ILB, []_[].
Round 5.) Joe Gaziano, DL, Northwestern.
Round 6.) Jordan Fuller, S, Ohio State.
Round 7.) Troy Pride, CB, ND.
Round 7.) Michael Pittman, WR, USC.
This week – it’s the Raiders. Excitingly, the game will be played in Winnipeg. I’m interested to hear what the crowd sounds like in Winnipeg for preseason football.
I’d expect Rodgers to play one series, even though it sure sounds like he would prefer not to play. I hope he does just to get the kinks worked out. A series of real life action — without a red jersey — would be healthy for Rodgers. It’d help readapt him to the speed of the game. I also want to see him releasing the ball quickly and not holding onto the football.
It’s important for Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams for them to get touches this week as well.
Look for Robert Tonyan and Allen Lazard to nab first down grabs.
Look for Josh Jackson to make s play on the ball.
Bolton impresses again!
Fadol Brown sees action and shows we he was brought back as a FA signing this year.
Expect to see MVS streaking down the sideline on a bomb.
Tony Brown gets his hand on another pass.
The Packers second team OL shows much better than they did against the Raiders DL last year.
Dexter Williams finds the end zone.
Packers 27.
Raiders 20.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
Each year, we seem to have one preseason game that looks like what we witnessed in Baltimore. It’s unbearable. It’s unwatchable. For a moment, it makes me think that the depth on the team might not be what I thought it would be. But, generally speaking, the flaw can specifically be pointed in the direction of the QB.
As I write, I listen to the Hip Abduction’s new album called “To the Ends of the Earth.” If I’m going to put added thought into the misery of the 2nd preseason game, I’m going to do so with a positive, Island beat in my head. I sip a 2015 Crooked Stave Hibiscus and Cinnamon beer. The body is still thick. The nose is still sharp. It’s perfectly sour. A good relaxing companion.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
I’m not going to get overly worked up over a preseason game, but in both preseason games, this Packers team doesn’t look like they’re in top fitness shape and they haven’t been overly physical. Those that are playing significant snaps are wearing down quickly. They are missing an enormous amount of tackles. And, against Baltimore, the Ravens were the far more physical team. In the preseason, you can’t judge scheme, but you can assess toughness and conditioning. Thus far, I’m worried that the Packers aren’t in Week 1 game shape.
Really though, after a 2nd watch, outside of the putrid back up QB play and Gary + Dexter Williams falling far short of what I’d hoped for, there were plenty of exciting individual performances.
It’s unbelievable that Gutekunst did not sign a veteran back up QB like Josh Johnson or Josh McCown. If Kizer or Boyle has to play in a regular season game, the Packers would have very little chance of winning. Neither is ready.
G-Mo looks like a legitimate #2 receiver.
I thought MVS did a solid job of run blocking.
Kumerow is a lock for this team.
Thus far, Allen Lazard is the toughest cut on this team. I thought that the Packers might’ve asked him to bulk up, so that he could be used as more of a receiving TE. Instead, he skimmed down and looks like a legit perimeter WR. In fact, in my Draft blog this Spring, I wrote: “Allen Lazard was a sneaky late season addition who could add weight to present himself as a mismatch receiving TE option.” As of now, my top 5 WR are: Adams, G-Mo, MVS, Kumerow, Lazard. For me, he’s surpassed ESB.
Savage covers ground so quickly. Love the way he steps up in the run game.
Z Smith is going to be a lot of fun to watch this year. He’s so quick in space. It’s tough to get a hand on him.
Kenny Clark is a workhorse! He’s poised for another dominating year.
Rashan Gary’s motor lacked fuel.
Keke plays with quickness. He has a deceptive, shifty move to his game that allows him to not get touched and find his way into the backfield.
Darrius Shepherd is making a push for a roster spot. He’s shown that he can be a worthwhile returner. He has good quickness. He’s also a natural slot WR and the Packers don’t seem to have anyone else in that mold. I’m not sure that you absolutely need a true slot WR, but he seems to operate well in short spaces. Can he surpass Davis as the return man?
Dexter Williams. Gulp. He has to catch that screen. The fumble is unacceptable. Disappointing.
Up and down day for Cole Madison. Had moments of dominance using his hips and feet to turn defenders, while sliding laterally. But, he also lost the point in a bull rush.
Same with Elgton Jenkins. Know he was whistled for two penalties - one which was highly questionable - but, he was a force for most of his snaps. He belongs!
Bolton has earned a spot on this team. He attacked the line of scrimmage in the run game. He was in position in the pass game. He was also a force on special teams.
Ty Summers is often in the right place. He needs to finish plays.
James Crawford must intercept that pass and turn it into a pick-6. That was a gimme.
I fantasize at the thought of the Packers signing Nick Perry to a 1-year, veteran’s minimum deal. Perry marinates on the bench for the first 6-weeks and eventually plays a rotational role.
Appears that the Packers are going to try and stash Randy Ramsey and Markus Jones on the practice squad.
It’s clear to me that the Packers do not have a worthwhile backup QB for 2019. I’m not saying that I’d give up on Kizer yet, but he’d be my #3. Boyle would be on the Practice Squad.
With the College Football season beginning next week, I've initiated my 2020 NFL Draft preparations. The plan is to invest significant time in ILB, DL, S, and OT. I'm not as interested in studying the QB positions as I still don't believe that it's in the Packers best interest to develop a QB. I believe that they should be investing in a veteran QB as a back-up to the 2-time MVP. Here is my initial Packers 2020 Mock Draft:
Round 1.) Walker Little, OT, Stanford.
Round 2.) Rashad Lawrence, DL, LSU.
Round 3.) JR Reed, S, Georgia.
Round 4.) Shaquille Quarterman, ILB, []_[].
Round 5.) Joe Gaziano, DL, Northwestern.
Round 6.) Jordan Fuller, S, Ohio State.
Round 7.) Troy Pride, CB, ND.
Round 7.) Michael Pittman, WR, USC.
This week – it’s the Raiders. Excitingly, the game will be played in Winnipeg. I’m interested to hear what the crowd sounds like in Winnipeg for preseason football.
I’d expect Rodgers to play one series, even though it sure sounds like he would prefer not to play. I hope he does just to get the kinks worked out. A series of real life action — without a red jersey — would be healthy for Rodgers. It’d help readapt him to the speed of the game. I also want to see him releasing the ball quickly and not holding onto the football.
It’s important for Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams for them to get touches this week as well.
Look for Robert Tonyan and Allen Lazard to nab first down grabs.
Look for Josh Jackson to make s play on the ball.
Bolton impresses again!
Fadol Brown sees action and shows we he was brought back as a FA signing this year.
Expect to see MVS streaking down the sideline on a bomb.
Tony Brown gets his hand on another pass.
The Packers second team OL shows much better than they did against the Raiders DL last year.
Dexter Williams finds the end zone.
Packers 27.
Raiders 20.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
My Take -> Preseason Week 2
Greetings, G-Force.
In Matt LaFleur’s preseason debut, the Packers walked off of Lambeau Field with victory in hand. Sure, penalties were high and special teams were sloppy, but there were plenty of individual performances that left me excited.
As I write, I listen to the Dirty Heads new album, “Super Moon.” The album brings a relaxed smile to my soul. I dig their work. I sip a 2015 Crooked Stave Motif. It still pours with plenty of carbonation. The body remains full. It’s not as sour as it once tasted. I’ve learned to only age this beer for three years.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
* The Oren Burks injury is a major bummer. It’s way too early in the season to have season ending injuries to starters. And, I had high hopes for Burks. So, I’m really hopeful that Gutekunst was not fluffing when he indicated that Burks might be back sooner than originally anticipated. In the short term, the Packers have a major concern at ILB. Ty Summers and Curtis Bolton have suddenly become names to watch in the preseason. Both were consistently around the ball. Both played well in their first preseason game, but they need to continue to take drastic leaps forward. At this stage, both are likely to make the team.
* There’s zero question about it, Rashan Gary has burst off of the ball.
* Jake Kumerow looks like the real deal.
* After one preseason game; it’s Boyle 1, Kizer 0.
* I’m bullish on Robert Tonyan. It was great fun to see him in motion. He’s a peg that can be used to create disguise.
* Raven Greene brought intensity. I liked seeing him going for the strip. He hits with a mean approach.
* Tony Brown is playing with confidence. The form tackle was textbook. He looks chiseled. Seems primed to have a breakout year.
* Montravious Adams looks really fit. He was active. He was quick off the ball. Let’s hope he can continue to develop. We are going to need him.
* Tyler Lancaster didn’t finish like I’d hoped, but he was getting a push.
* Kudos to Gutekunst for the quickness he’s added in the secondary. I really like what Jamerson brings to the field. He can fly. Redmond can cover ground. Kabion Ento is raw. But, he has the length and quickness desired to play the perimeter. I really like the way he plays the ball, too. Chandon Sullivan plays with attitude. He carries himself with an assertive step. Gutekunst has compiled great depth at CB. After one preseason game, it looked like the deepest position on the roster.
* Fun to see Vitale showing soft hands and making the one handed grab.
* Happy to see Ibraheim Campbell back on the team. He was assignment sure and a solid tackler. Pettine trusted him. I hope his arrival doesn’t mean that Jamerson fails to sneak into the 53.
* JK Scott was a weapon.
* I was really happy to see Randy Ramsey finish the play with a sack. It got me out of my seat with a fist pump. I liked his work on special teams. I wished he’d have play with more instincts and aggression. Felt like he was thinking too much. He was passive in his attack. I expected more.
* After Ramsey didn't meet my expectations in Preseason Week 1, I'm going to focus attention on Markus Jones. Jones was a dynamo in college. He has the tools to make the transition. The Packers have a need for another EDGE player. Reggie Gilbert is fine, but he has not developed into a playmaking rotational player. Jones has upside. He'll bring effort. Let's see if he's talented enough to make a push for the bottom of the roster.
* Markus Jones, Randy Ramsey and Reggie Gilbert are battling for one spot. Gilbert is definitely the most refined today. He looks like his body has developed into an NFL player. Gilbert is the front runner. I'm hoping Jones and Ramsey make a strong push this week.
* I can't wait to see the Smith Bros and Gary on the field at the same time.
* Josh Jones. I can’t believe that he’s really nursing minor injuries and illnesses. The Packers have to be looking to unload him. I’d take a 7th round pick for him, at this stage. It’s a bummer. But, thinking long term, Gutekunst likely wants ten picks entering the Draft. Today, he has 8. He will work to try and secure two late round picks over the next month.
* How did Gutekunst go to bed on game night? Well, let’s look at his draft picks:
* Gary - dude looks the part. Physical. Quick. Intense.
* Savage. Limited reps. Was near ball when it was in the air. Didn’t finish the play, but he was in position.
* Jenkins. Held point at G and C. Looks like a stud. A mammoth man. Moved well. Plays with intelligence. Great preseason debut.
* Sternberger. Out with injury.
* Keke. Kid can play. Active, quick. Good energy. Will be a rotational player this year.
* Hollman. Interception. Walked with confidence. Believes in himself. Played with the attitude you crave in a corner.
* Dexter Williams. Looked legit dancing to the 2nd level and finding his way into the secondary. He brings a juiced up burst to the hole. Liked seeing him in the passing game.
* Summers. 10 tackles. Flying around the field early. He played with patience. He took the right angle to the ball. He was plugging holes. He was really efficient early.
* Yes, thus far, Gutekunst has to feel good about his 2019 Draft.
This week - its the Ravens. A great test for the Packers. In many ways, it feels like the Packers are trying to build their roster in a similar fashion to what the Ravens have done through the years. While they run a 3-4 defense, it’s more of a hybrid defense with bigger EDGE rushers. It’s a stronger, more fierce front. With heightened evil intentions.
Look for Rodgers to lead a TD drive. He relies on Adams to grab his first 3rd down pass.
Look for the Smith Bros and Gary to team up to do damage on an early 3rd down.
Look for Jaire to be bouncing with swag.
Look for Dexter Williams to get himself to the second level. Especially in the screen game.
Look for Boyle to hit Lazard on another dart.
Look for Jamerson to fly to the football.
Look for Markus Jones to get a sack.
Look for Bolton to be intensely pursuing the football.
Look for Keke to grab a sack.
Crosby is money.
Packers 23.
Ravens 20.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
In Matt LaFleur’s preseason debut, the Packers walked off of Lambeau Field with victory in hand. Sure, penalties were high and special teams were sloppy, but there were plenty of individual performances that left me excited.
As I write, I listen to the Dirty Heads new album, “Super Moon.” The album brings a relaxed smile to my soul. I dig their work. I sip a 2015 Crooked Stave Motif. It still pours with plenty of carbonation. The body remains full. It’s not as sour as it once tasted. I’ve learned to only age this beer for three years.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
* The Oren Burks injury is a major bummer. It’s way too early in the season to have season ending injuries to starters. And, I had high hopes for Burks. So, I’m really hopeful that Gutekunst was not fluffing when he indicated that Burks might be back sooner than originally anticipated. In the short term, the Packers have a major concern at ILB. Ty Summers and Curtis Bolton have suddenly become names to watch in the preseason. Both were consistently around the ball. Both played well in their first preseason game, but they need to continue to take drastic leaps forward. At this stage, both are likely to make the team.
* There’s zero question about it, Rashan Gary has burst off of the ball.
* Jake Kumerow looks like the real deal.
* After one preseason game; it’s Boyle 1, Kizer 0.
* I’m bullish on Robert Tonyan. It was great fun to see him in motion. He’s a peg that can be used to create disguise.
* Raven Greene brought intensity. I liked seeing him going for the strip. He hits with a mean approach.
* Tony Brown is playing with confidence. The form tackle was textbook. He looks chiseled. Seems primed to have a breakout year.
* Montravious Adams looks really fit. He was active. He was quick off the ball. Let’s hope he can continue to develop. We are going to need him.
* Tyler Lancaster didn’t finish like I’d hoped, but he was getting a push.
* Kudos to Gutekunst for the quickness he’s added in the secondary. I really like what Jamerson brings to the field. He can fly. Redmond can cover ground. Kabion Ento is raw. But, he has the length and quickness desired to play the perimeter. I really like the way he plays the ball, too. Chandon Sullivan plays with attitude. He carries himself with an assertive step. Gutekunst has compiled great depth at CB. After one preseason game, it looked like the deepest position on the roster.
* Fun to see Vitale showing soft hands and making the one handed grab.
* Happy to see Ibraheim Campbell back on the team. He was assignment sure and a solid tackler. Pettine trusted him. I hope his arrival doesn’t mean that Jamerson fails to sneak into the 53.
* JK Scott was a weapon.
* I was really happy to see Randy Ramsey finish the play with a sack. It got me out of my seat with a fist pump. I liked his work on special teams. I wished he’d have play with more instincts and aggression. Felt like he was thinking too much. He was passive in his attack. I expected more.
* After Ramsey didn't meet my expectations in Preseason Week 1, I'm going to focus attention on Markus Jones. Jones was a dynamo in college. He has the tools to make the transition. The Packers have a need for another EDGE player. Reggie Gilbert is fine, but he has not developed into a playmaking rotational player. Jones has upside. He'll bring effort. Let's see if he's talented enough to make a push for the bottom of the roster.
* Markus Jones, Randy Ramsey and Reggie Gilbert are battling for one spot. Gilbert is definitely the most refined today. He looks like his body has developed into an NFL player. Gilbert is the front runner. I'm hoping Jones and Ramsey make a strong push this week.
* I can't wait to see the Smith Bros and Gary on the field at the same time.
* Josh Jones. I can’t believe that he’s really nursing minor injuries and illnesses. The Packers have to be looking to unload him. I’d take a 7th round pick for him, at this stage. It’s a bummer. But, thinking long term, Gutekunst likely wants ten picks entering the Draft. Today, he has 8. He will work to try and secure two late round picks over the next month.
* How did Gutekunst go to bed on game night? Well, let’s look at his draft picks:
* Gary - dude looks the part. Physical. Quick. Intense.
* Savage. Limited reps. Was near ball when it was in the air. Didn’t finish the play, but he was in position.
* Jenkins. Held point at G and C. Looks like a stud. A mammoth man. Moved well. Plays with intelligence. Great preseason debut.
* Sternberger. Out with injury.
* Keke. Kid can play. Active, quick. Good energy. Will be a rotational player this year.
* Hollman. Interception. Walked with confidence. Believes in himself. Played with the attitude you crave in a corner.
* Dexter Williams. Looked legit dancing to the 2nd level and finding his way into the secondary. He brings a juiced up burst to the hole. Liked seeing him in the passing game.
* Summers. 10 tackles. Flying around the field early. He played with patience. He took the right angle to the ball. He was plugging holes. He was really efficient early.
* Yes, thus far, Gutekunst has to feel good about his 2019 Draft.
This week - its the Ravens. A great test for the Packers. In many ways, it feels like the Packers are trying to build their roster in a similar fashion to what the Ravens have done through the years. While they run a 3-4 defense, it’s more of a hybrid defense with bigger EDGE rushers. It’s a stronger, more fierce front. With heightened evil intentions.
Look for Rodgers to lead a TD drive. He relies on Adams to grab his first 3rd down pass.
Look for the Smith Bros and Gary to team up to do damage on an early 3rd down.
Look for Jaire to be bouncing with swag.
Look for Dexter Williams to get himself to the second level. Especially in the screen game.
Look for Boyle to hit Lazard on another dart.
Look for Jamerson to fly to the football.
Look for Markus Jones to get a sack.
Look for Bolton to be intensely pursuing the football.
Look for Keke to grab a sack.
Crosby is money.
Packers 23.
Ravens 20.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
Monday, August 5, 2019
My Take -> Preseason Week 1
Greetings, G-Force.
The preseason is upon us. Fresh with excitement. Anxious for a glimpse of the new look roster — even in its most vanilla phase. Happy it’ll take place at Lambeau.
As I write, I listen to the Dirty Heads. They have two new songs that make me feel right. If you don’t know “Listen To Me” and “Lift Me Up”, I encourage you to vibe in. The sound lifts my spirits high. I sip a Station 26 Brut Rose IPA on this warm August afternoon. It brings a tasty sparkle. It’s colored with hibiscus and raspberries. It’s 6.3% ABV. It’s refreshing and it does the trick!
This week, I don’t anticipate that we will see much of the key starters. I expect to see a lot of the depth on this squad. So, here are the top 10 players that I’m going to be zoned in on for the 1st preseason game:
10.) Randy Ramsey. Yes, I know, I wrote about him last week. I really like the way he drops in his backpedal. He has quick feet. He can play in zone coverage, which should fit into Pettine’s zone blitzing system and add to the disguise. I haven’t heard much about him during training camp this year. I’m hoping that he shows up and wins the EDGE when the game lights switch on. I’m pining for him to have a Jayrone Elliott impact against lesser competition in the 1st preseason game. I’d also like to see him be active on special teams.
9.) Natrell Jamerson. I had a Round 6-7 grade on him coming out of college. I thought his versatility and quickness was deserving of a serious look in the NFL. His skills seem like a match for the Gutekunst + Pettine marriage. He’s tough enough to come on the blitz. He’s quick enough to play man coverage. There’s no such thing as too many DBs in the modern era NFL. I hope Jamerson rises to the occasion. Plus, I’d love to have a Badger on the roster.
8.) Cole Madison. I’m really pulling for him. It’s possible that his versatility will allow him to compete at 4 OL positions. I love his attitude. He’s an easy guy to cheer for. He admitted a need for mental health help. He got that help. And, now, he’s poised to be a vital figure for the depth of the OL. Let’s do this, Cole!
7.) Dexter Williams. I am overwhelmingly stoked that he’s a Packer. He’s a perfect fit for how I envision the LaFleur offense to look. With Jones and Jamaal Williams banged up, I expect Dexter to get quality reps. I want to see him in the screen game. I want to see him plant his foot, cut and burst through the hole. I want to see him get into the secondary in full speed. It’s possible that Gutekunst found himself a late round steal for this offense.
6.) Jake Kumerow. Aaron Rodgers trusts him. And, that goes a long ways. Kumerow has been electric when he’s been on the field. I want to see him continuing to show confidence in this offense. I want to see him stay healthy. I want to see him dominate 2nd string defenders.
5.) Robert Tonyan. I’m wishing for Tonyan to prove himself as a 3-down TE. Physically, he’s a perfect fit for the offense. He moves like George Kittle. LaFleur loves to use the TE in a variety of ways. I want to see Tonyan as a dependable, motivated blocker. I want to see Tonyan split out wide. I want to see Tonyan running routes with his hand in the dirt at the snap. I want to see Tonyan lined up in the slot. I want to see Tonyan in motion. I want to see Tonyan as an H-back.
4.) Oren Burks. He has beast potential. He has modern day NFL athleticism. A former Safety, I want to see him become an absolute dynamo as a pass defender. He’s shown the potential to be a missile on special teams. I’m hoping he makes a massive Year 1 to Year 2 jump.
3.) Tony Brown. Early in my preparation for the 2018 NFL Draft, I had a top 50 grade on Tony Brown. In fact, in October of 2017, I selected him with the 30th pick of a 2018 mock draft. When I was done studying him, I put a 5th to 6th round grade on him. Needless to say, I was stoked when Gutekunst added him last year as an in-season FA pick up. Now, it’s time to realize his potential. I want to see him elevate his game to become a reliable rotational CB. Brown has the talent to play the perimeter, to play the slot, to be a gunner on punt teams and to play on the outside on special teams. It’s time to put it all together and to become a figure in this defense. With Jackson and King both nursing injuries, Brown has a chance to put his stamp on this defense.
2.) Darnell Savage. Since Savage missed most of the first week of camp, I expect Savage to play at least one more series than the rest of the starters. I want to see his quickness on the big stage. I want to see him tested on a deep ball. I want to see him wrap up. I want to see him taking an angle to the football. If the Packers defense is legitimately going to take a leap forward, Savage has to be the real deal.
1.) Rashan Gary. You can’t teach his size + speed combination. I anticipate that he will play a role in the rotation with the 1st unit as well as a starter with the 2nd unit. I want to see Gary destroying the 2nd unit OL. I want to see Gary physically winning the point in the run game. I want to see Gary running around back-up Tackles. I want Gary to be the most physically imposing player on the field when the second unit comes onto the field.
In game, look for these things to happen:
* In limited work, Jaire is playing with all kinds of swagga and jumps a route to bat away a pass.
* The Smith Bros collapse the pocket on the first defensive series of the game.
* Kizer plays better than one would expect and delivers a TD drive on a pass to ESB.
* Tim Boyle finds Kumerow on a deep ball.
* Raven Greene lowers the boom.
* Randy Ramsey grabs a sack.
* Ka’dar Hollman snatches a pick.
* Tra Carson impresses at RB.
* Allen Lazard shows himself well on a jump ball.
* Jace Sternberger grabs a ball over the middle.
* Tyler Lancaster consistently gets a push.
Packers 27
Texans 13
Fired up! Ready to go!
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
The preseason is upon us. Fresh with excitement. Anxious for a glimpse of the new look roster — even in its most vanilla phase. Happy it’ll take place at Lambeau.
As I write, I listen to the Dirty Heads. They have two new songs that make me feel right. If you don’t know “Listen To Me” and “Lift Me Up”, I encourage you to vibe in. The sound lifts my spirits high. I sip a Station 26 Brut Rose IPA on this warm August afternoon. It brings a tasty sparkle. It’s colored with hibiscus and raspberries. It’s 6.3% ABV. It’s refreshing and it does the trick!
This week, I don’t anticipate that we will see much of the key starters. I expect to see a lot of the depth on this squad. So, here are the top 10 players that I’m going to be zoned in on for the 1st preseason game:
10.) Randy Ramsey. Yes, I know, I wrote about him last week. I really like the way he drops in his backpedal. He has quick feet. He can play in zone coverage, which should fit into Pettine’s zone blitzing system and add to the disguise. I haven’t heard much about him during training camp this year. I’m hoping that he shows up and wins the EDGE when the game lights switch on. I’m pining for him to have a Jayrone Elliott impact against lesser competition in the 1st preseason game. I’d also like to see him be active on special teams.
9.) Natrell Jamerson. I had a Round 6-7 grade on him coming out of college. I thought his versatility and quickness was deserving of a serious look in the NFL. His skills seem like a match for the Gutekunst + Pettine marriage. He’s tough enough to come on the blitz. He’s quick enough to play man coverage. There’s no such thing as too many DBs in the modern era NFL. I hope Jamerson rises to the occasion. Plus, I’d love to have a Badger on the roster.
8.) Cole Madison. I’m really pulling for him. It’s possible that his versatility will allow him to compete at 4 OL positions. I love his attitude. He’s an easy guy to cheer for. He admitted a need for mental health help. He got that help. And, now, he’s poised to be a vital figure for the depth of the OL. Let’s do this, Cole!
7.) Dexter Williams. I am overwhelmingly stoked that he’s a Packer. He’s a perfect fit for how I envision the LaFleur offense to look. With Jones and Jamaal Williams banged up, I expect Dexter to get quality reps. I want to see him in the screen game. I want to see him plant his foot, cut and burst through the hole. I want to see him get into the secondary in full speed. It’s possible that Gutekunst found himself a late round steal for this offense.
6.) Jake Kumerow. Aaron Rodgers trusts him. And, that goes a long ways. Kumerow has been electric when he’s been on the field. I want to see him continuing to show confidence in this offense. I want to see him stay healthy. I want to see him dominate 2nd string defenders.
5.) Robert Tonyan. I’m wishing for Tonyan to prove himself as a 3-down TE. Physically, he’s a perfect fit for the offense. He moves like George Kittle. LaFleur loves to use the TE in a variety of ways. I want to see Tonyan as a dependable, motivated blocker. I want to see Tonyan split out wide. I want to see Tonyan running routes with his hand in the dirt at the snap. I want to see Tonyan lined up in the slot. I want to see Tonyan in motion. I want to see Tonyan as an H-back.
4.) Oren Burks. He has beast potential. He has modern day NFL athleticism. A former Safety, I want to see him become an absolute dynamo as a pass defender. He’s shown the potential to be a missile on special teams. I’m hoping he makes a massive Year 1 to Year 2 jump.
3.) Tony Brown. Early in my preparation for the 2018 NFL Draft, I had a top 50 grade on Tony Brown. In fact, in October of 2017, I selected him with the 30th pick of a 2018 mock draft. When I was done studying him, I put a 5th to 6th round grade on him. Needless to say, I was stoked when Gutekunst added him last year as an in-season FA pick up. Now, it’s time to realize his potential. I want to see him elevate his game to become a reliable rotational CB. Brown has the talent to play the perimeter, to play the slot, to be a gunner on punt teams and to play on the outside on special teams. It’s time to put it all together and to become a figure in this defense. With Jackson and King both nursing injuries, Brown has a chance to put his stamp on this defense.
2.) Darnell Savage. Since Savage missed most of the first week of camp, I expect Savage to play at least one more series than the rest of the starters. I want to see his quickness on the big stage. I want to see him tested on a deep ball. I want to see him wrap up. I want to see him taking an angle to the football. If the Packers defense is legitimately going to take a leap forward, Savage has to be the real deal.
1.) Rashan Gary. You can’t teach his size + speed combination. I anticipate that he will play a role in the rotation with the 1st unit as well as a starter with the 2nd unit. I want to see Gary destroying the 2nd unit OL. I want to see Gary physically winning the point in the run game. I want to see Gary running around back-up Tackles. I want Gary to be the most physically imposing player on the field when the second unit comes onto the field.
In game, look for these things to happen:
* In limited work, Jaire is playing with all kinds of swagga and jumps a route to bat away a pass.
* The Smith Bros collapse the pocket on the first defensive series of the game.
* Kizer plays better than one would expect and delivers a TD drive on a pass to ESB.
* Tim Boyle finds Kumerow on a deep ball.
* Raven Greene lowers the boom.
* Randy Ramsey grabs a sack.
* Ka’dar Hollman snatches a pick.
* Tra Carson impresses at RB.
* Allen Lazard shows himself well on a jump ball.
* Jace Sternberger grabs a ball over the middle.
* Tyler Lancaster consistently gets a push.
Packers 27
Texans 13
Fired up! Ready to go!
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
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