Greetings, G-Force.
First and foremost, a Happy Thanksgiving to all of my readers. I appreciate the likes, the shares and the retweets more than I can state. I always enjoy seeing who is following along.
If you’d have told me in August that the Packers would be 8-3 heading into December, I’d have taken that situation in a heartbeat. So, here we are. The Packers in prime position to close the season strong and win the NFC North.
I write with the 7/13/19 Phish show from Alpine Valley in my ears. It was a Saturday Night throw down. I sip a Dry Dock Grapefruit IPA. This beer has that Grapefruit tasting citrus bite coupled by a sharp hop delight. This beer has become a staple in my fridge.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur’s team is trending in the wrong direction. They’ve been both dominated and unprepared in two of the last three weeks. Imperfections were to be expected for the first year coach. LaFleur has brought a rejuvenated energy to the Locker Room. He’s added a refreshing optimism to the Locker Room. He has brought a winning spirit to the Locker Room. Now, he must ensure that the Packers are ready to win in December. Historically, teams that can get hot in December are poised to make a serious run in the playoffs. The month of December will define LaFleur’s rookie season as a Head Coach in the NFL. The Packers have 5 games left, 4 of which have losing records.
Early on Pettine’s defense looked ready to play. They were aggressive and in attack mode. They set the tone. But, as the pressure lightened, the Packers defense struggled. Once again, there were major miscommunications in the secondary and big plays followed. I’m beginning to wonder if this defense is capable of playing 60 quality minutes of football.
This team desperately needs Aaron Rodgers. Over the last 3 games, Rodgers has not seen the field. It looks as though he’s watching the rush and not his receivers. He has open receivers, he’s not seeing the field.
Jimmy Graham has to make that catch. Simple as that.
Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams playing nearly identical snaps? Enough already. Let’s give Aaron Jones the month of December. It’s unbelievable that LaFleur can’t get the ball into Jones’ hands in the open field. LaFleur’s offense hasn’t suddenly lost all semblance of creativity. It’s bland. It’s predictable. It’s been unproductive.
Where have the motion gone in this offense? Where are the screens? Where are the fake jet and orbit sweeps? Why aren’t Williams and Jones being utilized on the field at the same time anymore?
MVS has to do a better job of trying to stay in bounds on the pass in the back of the end zone.
Za’Darius Smith is a superstar. He dominates. He offers a plethora of moves to free himself from blockers.
Thought Adrian Amos played well. I liked him creeping up to the line. When he is in position as a tackler, he finishes.
The officiating didn’t decide the game in any fashion. The 49ers were clearly the better team. But, early on, the refs definitely aided in the Packers falling behind 10-0. The penalty on Adams was highly questionable. The third down penalty on King that denied the Packers a crucial stop was even worse than the Adams penalty. The 10-0 deficit felt heavy early and the lead was significantly assisted by two major calls that went against the Packers.
Where is the spark on the offensive side of the ball? Where’s the urgency? Why are they often breaking the huddle with less than 15 seconds left?
This offense needs to dictate the tempo of the game. Too often, we hear that it was tough sledding playing behind the sticks and that’s it was difficult to get into the offense after falling behind. That shouldn’t be the case. LaFleur is letting the opposition determine his game plan. He needs to be the one to set the structure for the game. This offense needs to go up-tempo.
The SF DL was much more physical than the GB OL. I was really hoping that wouldn’t be the case. Linsley was awful. Disappointing.
The Packers return units are on the brink of becoming among the worst in the history of the NFL. They’re unbelievable bad.
What’s happened to JK Scott?
This team needs a spark. Aaron Rodgers. It’s your turn. Trust your teammates. Let the ball rip. This team is still in position to accomplish anything that they set their minds on. But, they need their 2x MVP QB to return to form.
For weeks 2020 Mock Packers Draft, I used the CBS Draft Board on Fanspeak:
Round 1: Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn.
Round 2: Kenneth Murray, ILB, Oklahoma.
Round 3: Alaric Jackson, OT, Iowa.
Round 4: Leki Fotu, DL, Utah.
Round 5: Paddi Fisher, ILB, Northwestern.
Round 6: Julian Blackmon, S, Utah.
Round 6: Daelin Hayes, EDGE, ND.
Round 7: Ben Bredesen, OG, Michigan.
Round 7: Walker Little, OT, Stanford.
Round 7: Trajan Bandy, CB, []_[].
This week, it’s the Giants. In New Jersey. Two storied franchise with a rich history of battling in important games in recent memory.
At 2-9, the Giants aren’t as poor as their record indicates. They just don’t know how to win late.
Saquon Barkley is dynamite out of the backfield. He’s tough to corral. And, he has the speed to outrun most defenders. He’s also used extensively as a receiver. Sterling Shepard has been banged up, but when he’s on the field, he’s a threat. Golden Tate is still dangerous with the ball in his hands. He’s a great third down receiver. Slayton is a great deep threat. Engram, when healthy, has inconsistent hands, but he has speed to cause defenses fits. Daniel Jones has had promising moments, but every game, he’s going to give the opposition an opportunity to steal the football. When teams take it away, they can normally grab a multiple score lead. But, when teams haven’t cashed in on those opportunities, Jones has shown the ability to cause problems for defenses. He throws a good slant, skinny post and deep balls. Jones can also get the 1st down marker with his legs. He’s tougher than he looks and won’t shy away from contact.
Defensively, the Giants have a young and improving DL. Dexter Lawrence, BJ Hill and Dalvin Tomlinson all bring high energy and a unique quickness + power off of the ball. They’re all still fairly raw and have battled inconsistencies. Markus Goldman has been a force rushing the passer. He brings high octane energy and a full gas tank. Lorenzo Carter has not developed into a dependable pass rusher like I envisioned he might, but he will occasionally be disruptive. Alec Ogletree has performed well in pass defense. He struggled to disengage in the run game and should be attacked. The Giants secondary has been vulnerable. Though injured, Peppers has been a good addiction when active. Deandre Baker has gained valuable experience as a rookie, but he’s taking his lumps right now. Janoris Jenkins can still play, but he’s not the same player that the Giants relies on in 2016. Julian Love and Corey Ballentine have shown promise as rookies, but neither is fully ready to compete on the big stage. Antoine Bethea brings a veteran presence and leadership to a mostly youthful secondary that has been picked on all year.
The Giants will test Kevin King on a deep ball early. It’ll likely be to Slayton.
Look for Saquon to get the ball on the swing pass. They’ll try to get Saquon lined up against either Campbell or Martinez.
The Giants don’t have the secondary to run with the Packers. Adams will have too much shake. Lazard will have too much height and strength. MVS has too much speed. MVS gets back on track this week.
The Giants inconsistencies on the OL should allow for Clark and the Smith Bros. to make a play. Look for Fackrell to also make a difference to help the Packers get off of the field on a 3rd down.
If Rodgers is seeing the field, the crossing routes should be open most of the day.
This one will be much closer than any of us want it to be. But, the Giants haven’t been able to win late and the Packers have been mostly fortuitous in close games. The Packers get back on track in the win column. It won’t be pretty, but a win is a win.
Packers 23.
Giants 19.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Saturday, November 30, 2019
Friday, November 22, 2019
My Take -> Week 12
Greetings, G-Force.
A week after the Packers failed to show up for an afternoon battle with the Chargers, the team from Titletown, U.S.A. responded with an emotionally draining, hard fought victory in a Wintery Wonderland at Lambeau Field. Is there a more beautiful sight in sports than the snow falling under the lights at Lambeau? If so, I have yet to witness it. For those that were fortunate enough to attend, I proudly declare that I’m absolutely jealous of you.
As I write, I sip a Casey Brewing Blackberry Fruit Stand. It's a n ale aged in Oak Barrels with Blackberries. It's a lighter beer at only 5.5%. Tart finish. Oak fruit forward. If you're not familiar with Casey Brewing, it's among my favorites. With a trip to WV on the horizon, John Denver's Country Roads plays in the background.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Following the bye, the Packers are well rested and healthy. With a path to home field advantage squarely in front of them. In order to secure the #1 seed, they must win this weekend.
LaFleur’s team was the beneficiary of two costly mistakes by Allen against the Panthers. His team capitalized on those mistakes. The Packers came out ready to play early and delivered the goal line stop on the final play.
I was really surprised when Pettine only rushed three on 4th down on the final Panthers drive. I thought he’d try and get in the young QBs face.
We’ve certainly seen Aaron Rodgers play better than he did against Carolina. Still, the Packers scored 24 points. Rodgers missed two wide open WRs in the end zone on the final drive of the 2nd Qtr.
Mason Crosby. What a tremendous kick.
Aaron Jones has officially developed into a top tier RB. He’s still underutilized. I wish he’d have been on the field when the Packers got the ball inside the 10 at the end of the 2nd Qtr. Jones has an uncanny ability to find the goal. He has an extra gear in short spaces and is more powerful than his frame appears to hold.
It was great to see Davante Adams return to form. He was unstoppable. Imagine this, Adams has 0 TDs and the Packers are 8-2.
The Packers OL has been remarkably better in run blocking than in years past. Elgton Jenkins and Billy Turner have revitalized the interior run game.
Another strong performance by Jamaal Williams.
It’s a great treat to watch the Lazard and Rodgers relationship grow.
Rodgers’ on-field mastery completely fooled Kuechly on the deep ball to Graham in the 2nd Qtr.
I really hope that MVS can find his stride again. His presence has disappeared in this offense.
I loved watching Jace block. High effort in the run game. Held the point well in run game. Want to see him as a receiver.
In grand fashion, the Packers averaged 6 yards per carry on the ground.
Once again, the Packers defense bent often, but they didn’t break. They gave up more than 400 yards, but only 16 points. As long as the turnovers continue, the defense should be fine, but when they don’t get sacks or turnovers, they struggle to get off of the field.
Za’Darius was a disruptive force. Ignore the stats, he was dominant. He was consistently pressuring Allen off of his spot.
Preston was dynamite again. Wish they’d never drop him in coverage. This team needs him in attack mode, not on his heels in space.
Fun to see Kenny Clark playing great football. He was moving lineman and getting a push.
Thought Lancaster showed well in the run game.
I’ve been waiting for Fackrell to make a big play. I thought it’d come in the form of a strip sack. I’ll take the goal line stop to seal the game. Right when I was having visions of Steve Beuerlein sneaking it in to beat the Packers in 1999.
Montravious Adams was also active on the line of scrimmage.
Need Blake Martinez to attack the line of scrimmage rather than waiting for the back to make the first move. Blake is playing too flat footed.
T-Mon with the pick! Point saver!
Amos was in the right position, just didn’t finish.
Keep waiting for Savage to be a savage and make a splash play.
Kevin King continues to get picked on in man coverage on down and out routes and comebacks. The Packers should look to give him safety help over the top, so King can jam at the line of scrimmage.
It’s time for a Pettine to let Savage cover the TE out of the slot. When the TE is lined up tight to the line, Campbell or Amos should handle the duties. Enough with the zone. Have to go man.
I continue to want to see more of Keke on the field.
Thought Campbell settles in nicely. He’s dependable. Clearly, Pettine trusts him. Loved the strip of McCaffrey.
I want Jaire to become the guy that closes out games. Wish he'd have caught the ball and danced for 6.
The Packers and their play clock issues. I’ll never understand it. It seems inexcusable. So, are the abundance of pre-snap false starts. The devil is in the details and offensively, the pre-snap details have been sloppy.
The defense continues to have communication issues. Watching Kevin King in zone while the rest of the defense is in man is beyond frustrating. Gotta clean it up.
The Packers had 10 penalties against Carolina. Yikes!
Footing continues to be an issue for the Packers on the Lambeau surface. Wish they could figure out the cleat situation.
8-2. With their best football seemingly ahead of them. The sky is the limit for this team. Just have to put it all together. And, they have to stay healthy.
Here’s this weeks 2020 Packers Mock Draft and for it, I used my good friend, Craig Forrestal’s, updated draft board that can be found on Fanspeak:
Round 1: Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson.
Round 2: D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia.
Round 3: Albert Okwuegbunam, TE, Missouri.
Round 4: Walker Little, OT, Stanford.
Round 5: Richard LeCounte, S, Georgia.
Round 6: Lorenzo Neal, DL, Purdue.
Round 6: Jeff Thomas, WR, []_[].
Round 7: Logan Wilson, ILB, Wyoming.
Round 7: Lavert Hill, CB, Michigan.
Round 7: Jon Runyan, G, Michigan.
This week, it’s the 49ers. In SF. The winner will hold possession of the #1 seed in the NFC. It’s a monumental Week 12 battle.
Kyle Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. He is a mastermind. He has redefined misdirection. He lives off of the screen pass. Screen pass, play action and crossing routes. He loves the wheel route to the RB. He has perfected the ability to get the ball into a playmakers hands in space. Shanahan loves motion. Pre-snap, he creates confusion in the masses. Shanahan finds mismatches.
During the offseason, I really wanted the Packers to take a look at Tevin Coleman. I thought he was the ideal back for the LaFleur offense. Instead, he landed back in the hands of Shanahan. And, Shanahan is using him in brilliant fashion. Coleman is a dynamic weapon on the inside run and in the screen game. He's a threat to make an explosive play every time he touches the ball. Jimmy Garoppolo is a smart QB who sees the field well.
He's clutch down the stretch. Raheem Mostert is a quality between-the-tackles runner. Deebo Samuel is dangerous after the catch. Emmanuel Sanders is a star. Dante Pettis is a talented receiver in traffic. Marquise Goodwin is a speedster. Richie James is a threat in the open field. If healthy, George Kittle is among the best TE's in football. The 49ers have a tough, athletic OL. Mike McGlinchey and Joe Staley are stars at Tackle. Staley has battled injury and his status is in question. Laken Tomlinson is a solid LG. Weston Richburg hasn't been the pro that most expected, but he's still more than serviceable. Kyle Juszczyk is an old school punch-you-in-the-mouth FB who is also a weapon as a receiver out of the backfield.
Defensively, the 49ers get to the QB. Dee Ford has been dynamite, but he is injured and might not play. Nick Bosa has lived up to his pre-draft hype. He gets to the QB. DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead are long and disruptive. They're massive men in the middle of the DL. I loved Fred Warner coming out of college. I really wish he was a Packer. He's been everything that I thought he'd be, a legitimate 3-down LB. Smart. Playmaker. Dre Greenlaw has been a better than expected rookie. He's been around the ball and playing with speed. Richard Sherman still has game. Ahkello Witherspoon was great and college and he's developing nicely in the NFL. I would like to see the Packers testing K'Waun Williams and Emmanuel Moseley deep down the field.
This game scares me. Kyle Shanahan scares me. Most of his play calls are designed to be passes that are 3-5 yards down the field with the possibility to grab 20+ yards. Shanahan designs game plans to get yards after the catch. I don't trust the Packers defense to make tackles against high-end athletes in space. This is a big test for Blake Martinez.
If both teams play their best football, I'd like to think that the Packers will win. But, when Rodgers gets pressured early, he's occasionally struggled to find his form. It wouldn't surprise me if SF comes at the Packers with heightened pressure early to try and knock the Packers offense out of rhythm.
The Packers are going to have to watch Coleman in a similar way to how they man-marked McCaffrey. Campbell will likely hold that responsibility. The Packers defense cannot over pursue this defense. Mind the gap. Stay in your lanes. And, watch the back side of the field. With Shanahan, it's all about deception. He lives to confuse the defense. And, often, the ball ends up on the opposite side of where you thought the ball would be.
The 49ers defense has a ton of strengths. But, I don't think they have anyone who can run with MVS on a deep route. We haven't seen much of MVS recently. Look for him to make a splash play.
Davante beats Sherman on a double move.
The offense might struggle to move the ball at-times, but Rodgers will connect on a couple of chunk plays.
Za'Darius comes up with a big strip sack from the blind side.
The defense will give up yards, once again. But, if they hold to FG's and come up with a crucial turnover, I like the Packers chances.
I'm expecting Shanahan and LaFleur to try and out-wit one another. Both pull out all of the tricks. Neither will hold anything back. Thankfully, LaFleur has the better QB. Rodgers returns to CA and comes up big in the clutch.
This one will be intense.
Packers 27
49ers 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
A week after the Packers failed to show up for an afternoon battle with the Chargers, the team from Titletown, U.S.A. responded with an emotionally draining, hard fought victory in a Wintery Wonderland at Lambeau Field. Is there a more beautiful sight in sports than the snow falling under the lights at Lambeau? If so, I have yet to witness it. For those that were fortunate enough to attend, I proudly declare that I’m absolutely jealous of you.
As I write, I sip a Casey Brewing Blackberry Fruit Stand. It's a n ale aged in Oak Barrels with Blackberries. It's a lighter beer at only 5.5%. Tart finish. Oak fruit forward. If you're not familiar with Casey Brewing, it's among my favorites. With a trip to WV on the horizon, John Denver's Country Roads plays in the background.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Following the bye, the Packers are well rested and healthy. With a path to home field advantage squarely in front of them. In order to secure the #1 seed, they must win this weekend.
LaFleur’s team was the beneficiary of two costly mistakes by Allen against the Panthers. His team capitalized on those mistakes. The Packers came out ready to play early and delivered the goal line stop on the final play.
I was really surprised when Pettine only rushed three on 4th down on the final Panthers drive. I thought he’d try and get in the young QBs face.
We’ve certainly seen Aaron Rodgers play better than he did against Carolina. Still, the Packers scored 24 points. Rodgers missed two wide open WRs in the end zone on the final drive of the 2nd Qtr.
Mason Crosby. What a tremendous kick.
Aaron Jones has officially developed into a top tier RB. He’s still underutilized. I wish he’d have been on the field when the Packers got the ball inside the 10 at the end of the 2nd Qtr. Jones has an uncanny ability to find the goal. He has an extra gear in short spaces and is more powerful than his frame appears to hold.
It was great to see Davante Adams return to form. He was unstoppable. Imagine this, Adams has 0 TDs and the Packers are 8-2.
The Packers OL has been remarkably better in run blocking than in years past. Elgton Jenkins and Billy Turner have revitalized the interior run game.
Another strong performance by Jamaal Williams.
It’s a great treat to watch the Lazard and Rodgers relationship grow.
Rodgers’ on-field mastery completely fooled Kuechly on the deep ball to Graham in the 2nd Qtr.
I really hope that MVS can find his stride again. His presence has disappeared in this offense.
I loved watching Jace block. High effort in the run game. Held the point well in run game. Want to see him as a receiver.
In grand fashion, the Packers averaged 6 yards per carry on the ground.
Once again, the Packers defense bent often, but they didn’t break. They gave up more than 400 yards, but only 16 points. As long as the turnovers continue, the defense should be fine, but when they don’t get sacks or turnovers, they struggle to get off of the field.
Za’Darius was a disruptive force. Ignore the stats, he was dominant. He was consistently pressuring Allen off of his spot.
Preston was dynamite again. Wish they’d never drop him in coverage. This team needs him in attack mode, not on his heels in space.
Fun to see Kenny Clark playing great football. He was moving lineman and getting a push.
Thought Lancaster showed well in the run game.
I’ve been waiting for Fackrell to make a big play. I thought it’d come in the form of a strip sack. I’ll take the goal line stop to seal the game. Right when I was having visions of Steve Beuerlein sneaking it in to beat the Packers in 1999.
Montravious Adams was also active on the line of scrimmage.
Need Blake Martinez to attack the line of scrimmage rather than waiting for the back to make the first move. Blake is playing too flat footed.
T-Mon with the pick! Point saver!
Amos was in the right position, just didn’t finish.
Keep waiting for Savage to be a savage and make a splash play.
Kevin King continues to get picked on in man coverage on down and out routes and comebacks. The Packers should look to give him safety help over the top, so King can jam at the line of scrimmage.
It’s time for a Pettine to let Savage cover the TE out of the slot. When the TE is lined up tight to the line, Campbell or Amos should handle the duties. Enough with the zone. Have to go man.
I continue to want to see more of Keke on the field.
Thought Campbell settles in nicely. He’s dependable. Clearly, Pettine trusts him. Loved the strip of McCaffrey.
I want Jaire to become the guy that closes out games. Wish he'd have caught the ball and danced for 6.
The Packers and their play clock issues. I’ll never understand it. It seems inexcusable. So, are the abundance of pre-snap false starts. The devil is in the details and offensively, the pre-snap details have been sloppy.
The defense continues to have communication issues. Watching Kevin King in zone while the rest of the defense is in man is beyond frustrating. Gotta clean it up.
The Packers had 10 penalties against Carolina. Yikes!
Footing continues to be an issue for the Packers on the Lambeau surface. Wish they could figure out the cleat situation.
8-2. With their best football seemingly ahead of them. The sky is the limit for this team. Just have to put it all together. And, they have to stay healthy.
Here’s this weeks 2020 Packers Mock Draft and for it, I used my good friend, Craig Forrestal’s, updated draft board that can be found on Fanspeak:
Round 1: Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson.
Round 2: D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia.
Round 3: Albert Okwuegbunam, TE, Missouri.
Round 4: Walker Little, OT, Stanford.
Round 5: Richard LeCounte, S, Georgia.
Round 6: Lorenzo Neal, DL, Purdue.
Round 6: Jeff Thomas, WR, []_[].
Round 7: Logan Wilson, ILB, Wyoming.
Round 7: Lavert Hill, CB, Michigan.
Round 7: Jon Runyan, G, Michigan.
This week, it’s the 49ers. In SF. The winner will hold possession of the #1 seed in the NFC. It’s a monumental Week 12 battle.
Kyle Shanahan is the best play caller in the NFL. He is a mastermind. He has redefined misdirection. He lives off of the screen pass. Screen pass, play action and crossing routes. He loves the wheel route to the RB. He has perfected the ability to get the ball into a playmakers hands in space. Shanahan loves motion. Pre-snap, he creates confusion in the masses. Shanahan finds mismatches.
During the offseason, I really wanted the Packers to take a look at Tevin Coleman. I thought he was the ideal back for the LaFleur offense. Instead, he landed back in the hands of Shanahan. And, Shanahan is using him in brilliant fashion. Coleman is a dynamic weapon on the inside run and in the screen game. He's a threat to make an explosive play every time he touches the ball. Jimmy Garoppolo is a smart QB who sees the field well.
He's clutch down the stretch. Raheem Mostert is a quality between-the-tackles runner. Deebo Samuel is dangerous after the catch. Emmanuel Sanders is a star. Dante Pettis is a talented receiver in traffic. Marquise Goodwin is a speedster. Richie James is a threat in the open field. If healthy, George Kittle is among the best TE's in football. The 49ers have a tough, athletic OL. Mike McGlinchey and Joe Staley are stars at Tackle. Staley has battled injury and his status is in question. Laken Tomlinson is a solid LG. Weston Richburg hasn't been the pro that most expected, but he's still more than serviceable. Kyle Juszczyk is an old school punch-you-in-the-mouth FB who is also a weapon as a receiver out of the backfield.
Defensively, the 49ers get to the QB. Dee Ford has been dynamite, but he is injured and might not play. Nick Bosa has lived up to his pre-draft hype. He gets to the QB. DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead are long and disruptive. They're massive men in the middle of the DL. I loved Fred Warner coming out of college. I really wish he was a Packer. He's been everything that I thought he'd be, a legitimate 3-down LB. Smart. Playmaker. Dre Greenlaw has been a better than expected rookie. He's been around the ball and playing with speed. Richard Sherman still has game. Ahkello Witherspoon was great and college and he's developing nicely in the NFL. I would like to see the Packers testing K'Waun Williams and Emmanuel Moseley deep down the field.
This game scares me. Kyle Shanahan scares me. Most of his play calls are designed to be passes that are 3-5 yards down the field with the possibility to grab 20+ yards. Shanahan designs game plans to get yards after the catch. I don't trust the Packers defense to make tackles against high-end athletes in space. This is a big test for Blake Martinez.
If both teams play their best football, I'd like to think that the Packers will win. But, when Rodgers gets pressured early, he's occasionally struggled to find his form. It wouldn't surprise me if SF comes at the Packers with heightened pressure early to try and knock the Packers offense out of rhythm.
The Packers are going to have to watch Coleman in a similar way to how they man-marked McCaffrey. Campbell will likely hold that responsibility. The Packers defense cannot over pursue this defense. Mind the gap. Stay in your lanes. And, watch the back side of the field. With Shanahan, it's all about deception. He lives to confuse the defense. And, often, the ball ends up on the opposite side of where you thought the ball would be.
The 49ers defense has a ton of strengths. But, I don't think they have anyone who can run with MVS on a deep route. We haven't seen much of MVS recently. Look for him to make a splash play.
Davante beats Sherman on a double move.
The offense might struggle to move the ball at-times, but Rodgers will connect on a couple of chunk plays.
Za'Darius comes up with a big strip sack from the blind side.
The defense will give up yards, once again. But, if they hold to FG's and come up with a crucial turnover, I like the Packers chances.
I'm expecting Shanahan and LaFleur to try and out-wit one another. Both pull out all of the tricks. Neither will hold anything back. Thankfully, LaFleur has the better QB. Rodgers returns to CA and comes up big in the clutch.
This one will be intense.
Packers 27
49ers 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Thursday, November 7, 2019
My Take -> Week 10
Greetings, G-Force.
The Packers had seen the Bears and ‘queens lose. They had command of the Division title in their grasp. Suddenly, they weren’t prepared. They lacked muscles. They played with small testicles and they got plowed over. In all phases. Life goes on.
As I write, I listen to the Yonder Mountain Mountain Tracks Vol 3 album. This album has always brought me great joy. This past Monday, I was fortunate to attend the “What the Night Brings” concert. It was a tribute to Jeff Austin. It was an excellent reminder of Austin’s prowess. If you’re not familiar with his music, put on this album and toss on the “If There’s Still a Ramblin’ in the Rambler” version. You’ll be captured. Stellar energy! I drink a New Belgium Atomic Pumpkin. It has a nice cinnamon pumpkin front with a perfect habanero pepper finish. I really enjoy the blend in these flavors.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
For those that are new to this blog, I'm not a sports journalist. I'm a blogger. With an optimistic realist perspective on the Packers. And, on life. So, with weeks like we just witnessed, my thoughts are minimized. It doesn't do me any good to spit an abundance of negativity. It doesn't do you any good to read it. It's important to recognize that it's a week-to-week league. This is a defining week for Matt LaFleur's locker room. This is a defining week for the 2019 Green Bay Packers. Championship teams respond to adversity. The Packers must show up this week.
The Packers went to California with a chance to make a statement in the NFC North. Instead, they treated the trip as though it was an October vacation beneath the Palm Trees.
For the first time in Matt LaFleur’s tenure as coach of the Green Bay Packers, his team was unprepared. They were uninspired. They were unmotivated.
When Pettine’s defense isn’t getting turnovers or sacks, it’s struggled to prevent teams from moving the football. Once again, the defense was very good inside the Red Zone, but it was sieve like in stopping the Chargers from moving the ball down the field. At some point, Pettine is going to have to become more aggressive in his attempt to get to the QB.
In the first half, the defense gave up 250 yards. They gave up 13 first downs and only two of those first downs came on 3rd down. They were dominated on 1st and 2nd down.
Aaron Rodgers and the offense never found their rhythm. Discouragingly so.
There was never a doubt that LaFleur would encounter struggles in his first year as Head Coach. I hope he learned from his experience in LA. He should be the dictator. He should not let the defense dictate his playcalling. He was too quick to give up his game plan. And, the Packers offense suffered all day because of it.
The Packers need Kenny Clark to be a difference maker at the line of scrimmage.
I was really hoping to see a play or two designed for Jace Sternberger. He stepped on the field one time. Jenkins jumped early. We never saw the play again.
Dear Wisconsin, can we please legalize marijuana? It’s an herb. It’s medicinal. It heals. It’s absolutely appalling to see how Za’Darius Smith got treated for having a couple of blunts.
Outside of Crosby and Scott, the special teams unit = LOL.
This week’s 2020 Mock Draft:
Round 1: Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama.
Round 2: Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson.
Round 3: Marvin Wilson, DL, FSU.
Round 4: Jon Runyan, OG, Michigan.
Round 5: Trajan Bandy, CB, []_[].
Round 6: Daelin Hayes, EDGE, ND.
Round 6: Jordyn Brooks, ILB, Texas Tech.
Round 7: Mitchell Wilcox, TE, South Florida.
Round 7: Troy Pride Jr., CB, ND.
Round 7: Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah.
This week - the Packers host the Panthers. At Lambeau. In a must win game. Carolina rests one game behind the Packers in the loss column. The Packers can grab a 2-game lead in the loss column with the head-to-head tie breaker over the Panthers with a win on Sunday.
This is a scary game for the Packers. The Packers run defense has been poor. The Panthers rushing offense has been exceptional. Christian McCaffrey is arguably the best RB in the NFL. His speed-power combo is 2nd to none. He’s a terrific pass receiving option as well. The offense revolves around his skills. Kyle Allen has stepped in for Cam Newton and done a good job. He’s taking care of the football and managing the game. He finds the check down. He’s a smart down and distance QB. Greg Olsen remains a reliable TE. He’s physical and offers a presence as both a receiver and a blocker. Curtis Samuel is a deep threat who fights for the ball in the air. DJ Moore has been Allen’s favorite target. The Panthers OL plays with a mean, nasty streak. Almost unbelievably, Greg Van Roten starts for them. In GB, he couldn’t play. But, credit him, he’s developed into a decent player for them. Trai Turner has been a solid Guard for them. Taylor Moton has played well at Tackle. So has Daryl Williams.
Defensively, the Panthers are built with a physical intensity. Luke Kuechly remains the centerpiece. Shaq Thompson can get sideline-to-sideline. Bruce Irvin and Mario Addison are speed rushers from the EDGE. Gerald McCoy presents problems as an interior rusher. He’s Stout in the run game, too. Dontari Poe and Vernon Butler will offer maximum effort each week. James Bradbury continues to develop into a top tier CB. Donte Jackson is an aggressive CB who looks to make the big play. Eric Reid and Tre Boston are two safeties that I had hoped the Packers might bring to GB. They play with brute toughness. Mean dudes! The Panthers lack depth in the secondary.
This will be a great test for Matt LaFleur. It’s a defining game for the 2019 season. The momentum came to a screeching halt in LA. It’s up to LaFleur to ensure that he brings an energized team with a creative offensive design. When Carolina went to SF, Shanahan designed a game plan that left the Panthers scratching their heads. The Panthers struggled with misdirection. LaFleur needs to draft up a similar strategy.
Just like most teams, look for the Panthers to try to establish the run game early. They'll try to milk the clock. They'll be conservative against the Packers defense and expect Allen to be able to convert 3rd and short, if necessary. Pettine will likely play with 2 ILB more this week than we've seen all year. I also expect Ibraheim Campbell to see snaps as a Dime LB.
The Packers have to spy McCaffrey. Everywhere he goes. They should have someone dedicated to him. Could this be a week to test Oren Burks' athleticism?
I'm expecting Rashan Gary to make a play soon. Hoping it comes this week.
After a sluggish first game back from injury, look for Davante Adams to get back on track.
Look for LaFleur to get the ball into Aaron Jones' hands 20 times this weekend.
Rodgers connects with 7 different receivers.
Lazard grabs a Red Zone TD.
I'm sorry, but I can't envision a world in which a Kyle Allen led team beats a healthy Aaron Rodgers led team at Lambeau Field in November. At some point, I expect the stage to get too big for Allen. He'll make a big mistake. Make it difficult, Lambeau! Get Loud!
Packers 27.
Panthers 23.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
The Packers had seen the Bears and ‘queens lose. They had command of the Division title in their grasp. Suddenly, they weren’t prepared. They lacked muscles. They played with small testicles and they got plowed over. In all phases. Life goes on.
As I write, I listen to the Yonder Mountain Mountain Tracks Vol 3 album. This album has always brought me great joy. This past Monday, I was fortunate to attend the “What the Night Brings” concert. It was a tribute to Jeff Austin. It was an excellent reminder of Austin’s prowess. If you’re not familiar with his music, put on this album and toss on the “If There’s Still a Ramblin’ in the Rambler” version. You’ll be captured. Stellar energy! I drink a New Belgium Atomic Pumpkin. It has a nice cinnamon pumpkin front with a perfect habanero pepper finish. I really enjoy the blend in these flavors.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
For those that are new to this blog, I'm not a sports journalist. I'm a blogger. With an optimistic realist perspective on the Packers. And, on life. So, with weeks like we just witnessed, my thoughts are minimized. It doesn't do me any good to spit an abundance of negativity. It doesn't do you any good to read it. It's important to recognize that it's a week-to-week league. This is a defining week for Matt LaFleur's locker room. This is a defining week for the 2019 Green Bay Packers. Championship teams respond to adversity. The Packers must show up this week.
The Packers went to California with a chance to make a statement in the NFC North. Instead, they treated the trip as though it was an October vacation beneath the Palm Trees.
For the first time in Matt LaFleur’s tenure as coach of the Green Bay Packers, his team was unprepared. They were uninspired. They were unmotivated.
When Pettine’s defense isn’t getting turnovers or sacks, it’s struggled to prevent teams from moving the football. Once again, the defense was very good inside the Red Zone, but it was sieve like in stopping the Chargers from moving the ball down the field. At some point, Pettine is going to have to become more aggressive in his attempt to get to the QB.
In the first half, the defense gave up 250 yards. They gave up 13 first downs and only two of those first downs came on 3rd down. They were dominated on 1st and 2nd down.
Aaron Rodgers and the offense never found their rhythm. Discouragingly so.
There was never a doubt that LaFleur would encounter struggles in his first year as Head Coach. I hope he learned from his experience in LA. He should be the dictator. He should not let the defense dictate his playcalling. He was too quick to give up his game plan. And, the Packers offense suffered all day because of it.
The Packers need Kenny Clark to be a difference maker at the line of scrimmage.
I was really hoping to see a play or two designed for Jace Sternberger. He stepped on the field one time. Jenkins jumped early. We never saw the play again.
Dear Wisconsin, can we please legalize marijuana? It’s an herb. It’s medicinal. It heals. It’s absolutely appalling to see how Za’Darius Smith got treated for having a couple of blunts.
Outside of Crosby and Scott, the special teams unit = LOL.
This week’s 2020 Mock Draft:
Round 1: Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama.
Round 2: Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson.
Round 3: Marvin Wilson, DL, FSU.
Round 4: Jon Runyan, OG, Michigan.
Round 5: Trajan Bandy, CB, []_[].
Round 6: Daelin Hayes, EDGE, ND.
Round 6: Jordyn Brooks, ILB, Texas Tech.
Round 7: Mitchell Wilcox, TE, South Florida.
Round 7: Troy Pride Jr., CB, ND.
Round 7: Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah.
This week - the Packers host the Panthers. At Lambeau. In a must win game. Carolina rests one game behind the Packers in the loss column. The Packers can grab a 2-game lead in the loss column with the head-to-head tie breaker over the Panthers with a win on Sunday.
This is a scary game for the Packers. The Packers run defense has been poor. The Panthers rushing offense has been exceptional. Christian McCaffrey is arguably the best RB in the NFL. His speed-power combo is 2nd to none. He’s a terrific pass receiving option as well. The offense revolves around his skills. Kyle Allen has stepped in for Cam Newton and done a good job. He’s taking care of the football and managing the game. He finds the check down. He’s a smart down and distance QB. Greg Olsen remains a reliable TE. He’s physical and offers a presence as both a receiver and a blocker. Curtis Samuel is a deep threat who fights for the ball in the air. DJ Moore has been Allen’s favorite target. The Panthers OL plays with a mean, nasty streak. Almost unbelievably, Greg Van Roten starts for them. In GB, he couldn’t play. But, credit him, he’s developed into a decent player for them. Trai Turner has been a solid Guard for them. Taylor Moton has played well at Tackle. So has Daryl Williams.
Defensively, the Panthers are built with a physical intensity. Luke Kuechly remains the centerpiece. Shaq Thompson can get sideline-to-sideline. Bruce Irvin and Mario Addison are speed rushers from the EDGE. Gerald McCoy presents problems as an interior rusher. He’s Stout in the run game, too. Dontari Poe and Vernon Butler will offer maximum effort each week. James Bradbury continues to develop into a top tier CB. Donte Jackson is an aggressive CB who looks to make the big play. Eric Reid and Tre Boston are two safeties that I had hoped the Packers might bring to GB. They play with brute toughness. Mean dudes! The Panthers lack depth in the secondary.
This will be a great test for Matt LaFleur. It’s a defining game for the 2019 season. The momentum came to a screeching halt in LA. It’s up to LaFleur to ensure that he brings an energized team with a creative offensive design. When Carolina went to SF, Shanahan designed a game plan that left the Panthers scratching their heads. The Panthers struggled with misdirection. LaFleur needs to draft up a similar strategy.
Just like most teams, look for the Panthers to try to establish the run game early. They'll try to milk the clock. They'll be conservative against the Packers defense and expect Allen to be able to convert 3rd and short, if necessary. Pettine will likely play with 2 ILB more this week than we've seen all year. I also expect Ibraheim Campbell to see snaps as a Dime LB.
The Packers have to spy McCaffrey. Everywhere he goes. They should have someone dedicated to him. Could this be a week to test Oren Burks' athleticism?
I'm expecting Rashan Gary to make a play soon. Hoping it comes this week.
After a sluggish first game back from injury, look for Davante Adams to get back on track.
Look for LaFleur to get the ball into Aaron Jones' hands 20 times this weekend.
Rodgers connects with 7 different receivers.
Lazard grabs a Red Zone TD.
I'm sorry, but I can't envision a world in which a Kyle Allen led team beats a healthy Aaron Rodgers led team at Lambeau Field in November. At some point, I expect the stage to get too big for Allen. He'll make a big mistake. Make it difficult, Lambeau! Get Loud!
Packers 27.
Panthers 23.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Friday, November 1, 2019
My Take - Week 9
Greetings, G-Force.
The Packers Sunday Night victory in Arrowhead left me feeling Super. Thus far, in 2019, no matter the in-game circumstance, this team has stepped up to the challenge. The Offense continues to evolve into creative excellence. The Defense continues to show the pension to come up with the big play. Scott and Crosby have been exceptional in the kicking game. There’s something brewing in Titletown, U.S.A.
As I write, I listen to the Phish 8/31/19 show from Commerce City, CO. It’s a phenomenally phunky show with many wicked bass grooves. I was bouncing with my brother, Chad, in a mellowed fantasia dance style. I sip an Avery Mephistopheles. 14.666%. It’s sugary sweet dark goodness. It’s fresh, the 2019 version. And, it’s best served when aged for more than 3 years.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
If you haven’t seen the Aaron Rodgers and Matt LaFleur postgame hug that was posted on Instagram, you’re missing out. It’s all love. It’s a head hug embrace. Brotherhood!
The Matt LaFleur “all gas, no fucking brake” philosophy was put to the test when the Packers had the ball, up 7, at the 2-minute mark. I might’ve spread the Chiefs out and ran Jones up the middle in hopes that he would grab the necessary yardage. If not, I’d have punted and forced the Chiefs to go 85-90 yards with 1:10 to play and no timeouts left. Not LaFleur. He was “all gas, no fucking brake.” Rodgers rewarded him with the game winning completion to Jones for the dagger.
This offense knows how to close out games. With 5:04 left in the game, the Packers took over from their own 2 yard line. The Chiefs had all 3 timeouts. The Packers went with power football. They ran 7 times for 31 yards. After the Jones catch, it was victory formation. That’s a CHAMPIONSHIP DRIVE.
Aaron Rodgers’ audible to a run on 3rd and 2 from his own 10 with 3:40 to play was veteran mastery. He saw that the Chiefs went small to defend the pass, so Rodgers went with Jones to move the chains. Billy Turner got the necessary push and Jones bulled for a crucial 1st down.
If you want to see the camaraderie on this team in its purest form, rewatch the wizardry of Rodgers tossing the TD to Williams in the corner of the end zone. Simply take note of Aaron Jones’ reaction after Williams’ catch. Jones couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate his running mates success. The reaction defines teamship.
With 9:03 left in the game, the Chiefs got equal at 24. In a hostile environment, how’d the Packers respond to the adversity? Two plays. 75 yards. 00:59 off of the clock. A big time TD. This team is special.
Aaron Jones is an absolute superstar. ‘Nuff said.
Watching the budding relationship between Rodgers and Lazard is a thing of beauty. They appear to be in mental lockstep.
What a dynamite catch by Jake Kumerow!
Tyler Lancaster with the game changing play to propel the Packers to victory. Riveting to see the role players providing defining moments. Not only did he knock it loose, but he had the awareness while laying on the ground to scoop up the fortuitous bounce.
Have to love the flea flicker that LaFleur called after the Lancaster forced fumble and fumble recovery. It didn’t work, but I appreciated the aggressiveness.
The play design to free Jones loose on the double move was sublimely crafted by LaFleur.
Jamaal Williams is a force in this offense.
Rodgers connected with 8 different receivers. It’s crystal clear that he is becoming extremely comfortable in this offense.
Chandon Sullivan breaking up the final third down pass to Kelce on a 50/50 ball has to make Gutekunst want to stand in front of a mirror and flex his muscles.
Za’Darius Smith with two more sacks. He’s brought a zest to this team that we haven’t seen in many years.
Phenomenal blocking by Graham, Bakhtiari and Linsley on the 67 yard TD reception by Jones. Maximum effort by Bakhtiari and Linsley to get downfield and Graham held the initial point to spring Jones loose. Epic!
We will marvel over the greatness of Rodgers desperately flinging it to Williams with perfection. But, with a FB and two RBs on the field, why aren’t the Packers pounding the ball right behind Linsley and Jenkins on 3rd and 1?
The defense has come up with big Red Zone stops all year. It had appeared they’d done so again until the TMon penalty came in late on 3rd down.
After a painful 2nd Quarter, the defense really settled down in the 3rd and 4th Quarters, holding the Chiefs to only 7 points. Pettine stuck to his game plan. He was patient. He didn’t take risks. He trusted his secondary to make a play. Sullivan rose to the occasion.
Gutty performance by Blake Martinez playing with one hand.
Montravious Adams was active along the line of scrimmage.
Adrian Amos continues to be a sure tackler in space.
It was really good to see Savage back on the field again. On the first 3rd down of the game, it was Savage who jammed Kelce man to man at the line.
Aaron Jones. 20 touches. 226 yards. 2 TDs. Unbelievable performance.
Watching the Packers carve out an offense without Davante Adams, makes me think that LaFleur and Rodgers must be harmonizing together: “We move through stormy weather. We know that our days are few. And, we dream and we struggle together. And, love will carry us through!”
When Gutekunst writes his agenda for the year, one line item is likely, “I want to enter the NFL Draft with 10 selections.” In an era when many teams don’t value picks, Gutekunst does. He’s an old school scout with a new era approach to playing GM. He won’t overlook any options towards constructing the roster. And, he’s had two seemingly successful drafts, so far. However, a part of me wonders if he regrets his decision to trade Trevor Davis to secure his 10th pick in next years Draft. Especially with the way that Jenkins has played, you’d have to imagine that Gutekunst could unload Lane Taylor for a similar 6th round pick in the offseason. Without Davis, teams continue to show absolutely zero respect for the Packers return unit. They intentionally kick it short and almost amazingly, the Packers often cannot return the ball to the 25 and have yet to get the ball to the 30. Thus far, the Packers return units have been brutal.
The Packers have to figure out their return game. How does Shep let the ball bounce on that last punt? He should’ve easily caught the ball at the 16 yard line. Instead, he let the ball bounce and the Packers were pinned at the 2. Intolerable. It’s disappointing, but Shep was a failed experiment in his rookie year. I would like to see the Packers give Tremon Smith a shot as a punt returner. He did it in college. Also, the Titans cut Darius Jennings. He was with LaFleur in Tennessee last year and led the NFL in kickoff return yardage. Could the Packers take a peep? The Packers need a spark in the return game.
It was another week in which the Smith Bros. desperately needed help getting to the QB. Once again, no one stepped up to the task. I’d been feeling like Fackrell was getting close. But, he’s been quiet the last couple of weeks. Gary continues to mostly get swallowed. At this stage, teams are doubling Preston in definite passing downs. Teams are trusting lineman to win their other 1 on 1 battles. I wonder if Tim Williams will get a chance soon.
Here’s a completely different look than I’ve previously been putting together for a 2020 Mock Draft:
Round 1: Ceedee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma.
Round 2: D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia.
Round 3: Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah.
Round 4: Calvin Throckmorton, OT, Oregon.
Round 5: Jay Tufele, DL, USC.
Round 6: Alohi Gilman, S, Notre Dame.
Round 6: Michael Bushman, TE, BYU.
Round 7: Jeff Thomas, WR, []_[].
Round 7: Liam Eichenbeeg, OT, Notre Dame.
Round 7: Alton Robinson, EDGE, Syracuse.
This week – it’s the Packers traveling to Los Angeles for a home game…err…a road game that will likely be filled with 75% Packers fans. I encourage all Packers fans that attend the game to be extra rowdy. With the SF win on Thursday night, the Packers must keep the pace. At the mid-point in the season, a 1st round bye is 100% within sight. But, each week is precious. The NFC is really tough and the Packers cannot afford to slip up. It might require a 13-3 record in order to earn the right to rest up over Wild Card weekend. Get loud in LA!
The Chargers have an abundance of talent at the skill positions, but they’re really banged up along the OL. Keenan Allen is a weapon. He’s a dangerous possession weapon who is a savvy route runner and a dependable 3rd down target. Mike Williams is a great deep threat. He is a physical WR who gets up and wins jump balls. He’s a competitor, an underappreciated WR. Hunter Henry is skilled. He’s physical. He excels in all phases of the game, but he occasionally displays inconsistent hands. The Chargers have three talented RB’s in Melvin Gordon, Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson. Gordon is finally finding his stride after missing training camp and the early portion of the year. Ekeler is a great receiving back out of the backfield. While the Chargers OL has been decimated with injury, they were able to just activate Russell Okung at LT. Okung should significantly improve the protection for Rivers’ backside.
Defensively, the Chargers have two talented pass rushers that will challenge the Packers tackles. Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram are terrific compliments. They’ll present a dangerous threat. When they’re going for the sack, they’re also looking to get the strip. Brandon Mebane and Justin Jones are good players on the DL, but they’re both banged up. Jerry Tillery is a promising rookie. Damion Square is an ascending player on the DL as well. Aged vet, Thomas Davis, remains a physical LB. He can still run as well. Denzel Perryman is a speedy, heady ILB. The Chargers secondary can be beaten. Casey Hayward continues to play at a high level. Desmond King is an above average slot CB. Outside of that, I like the match-ups. Look for Rodgers to target Michael Davis. The Packers should be able to win over the middle of the field against Rayshawn Jenkins and Roderic Teamer.
The Packers defense has to win the line of scrimmage. Look for Kenny Clark and Dean Lowry to have big games. Also, expect the Smith Bros. to get in Rivers’ face. When Rivers gets pressured, he makes mistakes. I expect the Packers defense to force at least two turnovers. It wouldn’t shock me if Rivers throws an interception and if Gordon fumbles.
I have a feeling that Rashan Gary makes a play this weekend.
Za’Darius dominates as a pass rusher from the interior.
Keenan Allen will frustrate the Packers. Williams will catch a pass in excess of 30 yards. Ekeler will grab 1st down yardage in the pass game.
Offensively, look for the Packers to run right at the Chargers defense. Bosa and Ingram like to be aggressive with outside rushes. To slow them down, you have to run right at them. Expect a healthy dose of both Jones and Williams.
I’m hopeful that we see Davante Adams on Sunday. The Chargers won’t be able to cover Adams.
MVS will get targeted on more than 1 deep ball. Rodgers hits him for a long touchdown.
Rodgers continues to stay in rhythm. He continues to find the check-down. He continues to look for the RB’s in the passing game. He continues to play football at an MVP level.
Jimmy Graham scores in the Red Zone.
Crosby continues to stay true to form.
Packers 30.
Chargers 20.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-mac.blogspot.com
The Packers Sunday Night victory in Arrowhead left me feeling Super. Thus far, in 2019, no matter the in-game circumstance, this team has stepped up to the challenge. The Offense continues to evolve into creative excellence. The Defense continues to show the pension to come up with the big play. Scott and Crosby have been exceptional in the kicking game. There’s something brewing in Titletown, U.S.A.
As I write, I listen to the Phish 8/31/19 show from Commerce City, CO. It’s a phenomenally phunky show with many wicked bass grooves. I was bouncing with my brother, Chad, in a mellowed fantasia dance style. I sip an Avery Mephistopheles. 14.666%. It’s sugary sweet dark goodness. It’s fresh, the 2019 version. And, it’s best served when aged for more than 3 years.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
If you haven’t seen the Aaron Rodgers and Matt LaFleur postgame hug that was posted on Instagram, you’re missing out. It’s all love. It’s a head hug embrace. Brotherhood!
The Matt LaFleur “all gas, no fucking brake” philosophy was put to the test when the Packers had the ball, up 7, at the 2-minute mark. I might’ve spread the Chiefs out and ran Jones up the middle in hopes that he would grab the necessary yardage. If not, I’d have punted and forced the Chiefs to go 85-90 yards with 1:10 to play and no timeouts left. Not LaFleur. He was “all gas, no fucking brake.” Rodgers rewarded him with the game winning completion to Jones for the dagger.
This offense knows how to close out games. With 5:04 left in the game, the Packers took over from their own 2 yard line. The Chiefs had all 3 timeouts. The Packers went with power football. They ran 7 times for 31 yards. After the Jones catch, it was victory formation. That’s a CHAMPIONSHIP DRIVE.
Aaron Rodgers’ audible to a run on 3rd and 2 from his own 10 with 3:40 to play was veteran mastery. He saw that the Chiefs went small to defend the pass, so Rodgers went with Jones to move the chains. Billy Turner got the necessary push and Jones bulled for a crucial 1st down.
If you want to see the camaraderie on this team in its purest form, rewatch the wizardry of Rodgers tossing the TD to Williams in the corner of the end zone. Simply take note of Aaron Jones’ reaction after Williams’ catch. Jones couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate his running mates success. The reaction defines teamship.
With 9:03 left in the game, the Chiefs got equal at 24. In a hostile environment, how’d the Packers respond to the adversity? Two plays. 75 yards. 00:59 off of the clock. A big time TD. This team is special.
Aaron Jones is an absolute superstar. ‘Nuff said.
Watching the budding relationship between Rodgers and Lazard is a thing of beauty. They appear to be in mental lockstep.
What a dynamite catch by Jake Kumerow!
Tyler Lancaster with the game changing play to propel the Packers to victory. Riveting to see the role players providing defining moments. Not only did he knock it loose, but he had the awareness while laying on the ground to scoop up the fortuitous bounce.
Have to love the flea flicker that LaFleur called after the Lancaster forced fumble and fumble recovery. It didn’t work, but I appreciated the aggressiveness.
The play design to free Jones loose on the double move was sublimely crafted by LaFleur.
Jamaal Williams is a force in this offense.
Rodgers connected with 8 different receivers. It’s crystal clear that he is becoming extremely comfortable in this offense.
Chandon Sullivan breaking up the final third down pass to Kelce on a 50/50 ball has to make Gutekunst want to stand in front of a mirror and flex his muscles.
Za’Darius Smith with two more sacks. He’s brought a zest to this team that we haven’t seen in many years.
Phenomenal blocking by Graham, Bakhtiari and Linsley on the 67 yard TD reception by Jones. Maximum effort by Bakhtiari and Linsley to get downfield and Graham held the initial point to spring Jones loose. Epic!
We will marvel over the greatness of Rodgers desperately flinging it to Williams with perfection. But, with a FB and two RBs on the field, why aren’t the Packers pounding the ball right behind Linsley and Jenkins on 3rd and 1?
The defense has come up with big Red Zone stops all year. It had appeared they’d done so again until the TMon penalty came in late on 3rd down.
After a painful 2nd Quarter, the defense really settled down in the 3rd and 4th Quarters, holding the Chiefs to only 7 points. Pettine stuck to his game plan. He was patient. He didn’t take risks. He trusted his secondary to make a play. Sullivan rose to the occasion.
Gutty performance by Blake Martinez playing with one hand.
Montravious Adams was active along the line of scrimmage.
Adrian Amos continues to be a sure tackler in space.
It was really good to see Savage back on the field again. On the first 3rd down of the game, it was Savage who jammed Kelce man to man at the line.
Aaron Jones. 20 touches. 226 yards. 2 TDs. Unbelievable performance.
Watching the Packers carve out an offense without Davante Adams, makes me think that LaFleur and Rodgers must be harmonizing together: “We move through stormy weather. We know that our days are few. And, we dream and we struggle together. And, love will carry us through!”
When Gutekunst writes his agenda for the year, one line item is likely, “I want to enter the NFL Draft with 10 selections.” In an era when many teams don’t value picks, Gutekunst does. He’s an old school scout with a new era approach to playing GM. He won’t overlook any options towards constructing the roster. And, he’s had two seemingly successful drafts, so far. However, a part of me wonders if he regrets his decision to trade Trevor Davis to secure his 10th pick in next years Draft. Especially with the way that Jenkins has played, you’d have to imagine that Gutekunst could unload Lane Taylor for a similar 6th round pick in the offseason. Without Davis, teams continue to show absolutely zero respect for the Packers return unit. They intentionally kick it short and almost amazingly, the Packers often cannot return the ball to the 25 and have yet to get the ball to the 30. Thus far, the Packers return units have been brutal.
The Packers have to figure out their return game. How does Shep let the ball bounce on that last punt? He should’ve easily caught the ball at the 16 yard line. Instead, he let the ball bounce and the Packers were pinned at the 2. Intolerable. It’s disappointing, but Shep was a failed experiment in his rookie year. I would like to see the Packers give Tremon Smith a shot as a punt returner. He did it in college. Also, the Titans cut Darius Jennings. He was with LaFleur in Tennessee last year and led the NFL in kickoff return yardage. Could the Packers take a peep? The Packers need a spark in the return game.
It was another week in which the Smith Bros. desperately needed help getting to the QB. Once again, no one stepped up to the task. I’d been feeling like Fackrell was getting close. But, he’s been quiet the last couple of weeks. Gary continues to mostly get swallowed. At this stage, teams are doubling Preston in definite passing downs. Teams are trusting lineman to win their other 1 on 1 battles. I wonder if Tim Williams will get a chance soon.
Here’s a completely different look than I’ve previously been putting together for a 2020 Mock Draft:
Round 1: Ceedee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma.
Round 2: D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia.
Round 3: Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah.
Round 4: Calvin Throckmorton, OT, Oregon.
Round 5: Jay Tufele, DL, USC.
Round 6: Alohi Gilman, S, Notre Dame.
Round 6: Michael Bushman, TE, BYU.
Round 7: Jeff Thomas, WR, []_[].
Round 7: Liam Eichenbeeg, OT, Notre Dame.
Round 7: Alton Robinson, EDGE, Syracuse.
This week – it’s the Packers traveling to Los Angeles for a home game…err…a road game that will likely be filled with 75% Packers fans. I encourage all Packers fans that attend the game to be extra rowdy. With the SF win on Thursday night, the Packers must keep the pace. At the mid-point in the season, a 1st round bye is 100% within sight. But, each week is precious. The NFC is really tough and the Packers cannot afford to slip up. It might require a 13-3 record in order to earn the right to rest up over Wild Card weekend. Get loud in LA!
The Chargers have an abundance of talent at the skill positions, but they’re really banged up along the OL. Keenan Allen is a weapon. He’s a dangerous possession weapon who is a savvy route runner and a dependable 3rd down target. Mike Williams is a great deep threat. He is a physical WR who gets up and wins jump balls. He’s a competitor, an underappreciated WR. Hunter Henry is skilled. He’s physical. He excels in all phases of the game, but he occasionally displays inconsistent hands. The Chargers have three talented RB’s in Melvin Gordon, Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson. Gordon is finally finding his stride after missing training camp and the early portion of the year. Ekeler is a great receiving back out of the backfield. While the Chargers OL has been decimated with injury, they were able to just activate Russell Okung at LT. Okung should significantly improve the protection for Rivers’ backside.
Defensively, the Chargers have two talented pass rushers that will challenge the Packers tackles. Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram are terrific compliments. They’ll present a dangerous threat. When they’re going for the sack, they’re also looking to get the strip. Brandon Mebane and Justin Jones are good players on the DL, but they’re both banged up. Jerry Tillery is a promising rookie. Damion Square is an ascending player on the DL as well. Aged vet, Thomas Davis, remains a physical LB. He can still run as well. Denzel Perryman is a speedy, heady ILB. The Chargers secondary can be beaten. Casey Hayward continues to play at a high level. Desmond King is an above average slot CB. Outside of that, I like the match-ups. Look for Rodgers to target Michael Davis. The Packers should be able to win over the middle of the field against Rayshawn Jenkins and Roderic Teamer.
The Packers defense has to win the line of scrimmage. Look for Kenny Clark and Dean Lowry to have big games. Also, expect the Smith Bros. to get in Rivers’ face. When Rivers gets pressured, he makes mistakes. I expect the Packers defense to force at least two turnovers. It wouldn’t shock me if Rivers throws an interception and if Gordon fumbles.
I have a feeling that Rashan Gary makes a play this weekend.
Za’Darius dominates as a pass rusher from the interior.
Keenan Allen will frustrate the Packers. Williams will catch a pass in excess of 30 yards. Ekeler will grab 1st down yardage in the pass game.
Offensively, look for the Packers to run right at the Chargers defense. Bosa and Ingram like to be aggressive with outside rushes. To slow them down, you have to run right at them. Expect a healthy dose of both Jones and Williams.
I’m hopeful that we see Davante Adams on Sunday. The Chargers won’t be able to cover Adams.
MVS will get targeted on more than 1 deep ball. Rodgers hits him for a long touchdown.
Rodgers continues to stay in rhythm. He continues to find the check-down. He continues to look for the RB’s in the passing game. He continues to play football at an MVP level.
Jimmy Graham scores in the Red Zone.
Crosby continues to stay true to form.
Packers 30.
Chargers 20.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-mac.blogspot.com
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