Greetings, G-Force.
World, Hold On. The Revolution starts tomorrow. The loss to the Bengals was alarming. And if the Packers could not hear that wake up call, the season will end before it begins. A loss to the Rams would signal the end to the 2009 season. No need to panic. It's time for efficiency.
My cousins Danny, Emmitt, and Ryan will be in attendance. Ensuring victory. I'm certain of it.
I've watched the replay of the Bengals game twice. Trying to make sense of it. A few things are painfully obvious. We've lost connection with the basics of football. When you couple a poor offensive line with plays that are designed to take a while to develop and a QB that fails to utilize his check downs, failure is a certainty. Twice I was certain we were to come away with points only to be held back because Rodgers took sacks when we were in FG range. You have to understand field position and down & distance. Rodgers has reverted back to last season - waiting for the big play to happen downfield rather than take what has been given to him underneath. When he gets rid of the ball quickly, good things happen and we move the football.
Mike McCarthy says that he "has a duty to get the ball to his players downfield." Mike, you are wrong. Your playmakers are greedy bastards with the ball in their hands. They live for grabbing yards after the catch. Get 'em the ball. They'll make guys miss. Where's the slant? The bubble screen? The short crossing routes? No need for the puma routes...we want our guys running AT the secondary. Not towards the line of scrimmage.
When you are struggling to get the run game going, you can utilize the pass to set up the run and to slow down the pass rush. But, you must nickel and dime the defense. 3-7 yard routes. Quick to develop. Thus far, we seem to be applying pressure on ourselves and trying to force BIG things to happen rather than letting them develop. McCarthy & Rodgers seem to be panicking.
We'll get it fixed this week. In a big way.
But, before I get to the game, I'm quite disturbed by the release of Rouse and I find it fitting that it occurs the same week we play Anthony Smith. I'm fine with making an example of a guy. McCarthy says it's about availability and accountability. Well then why do we keep Montgomery & Bush? Each week, Montgomery is pushed 10-12 yards back. Literally. We keep Bush as he is a strong special teams player? Who are we kidding? Bush is a failure. He's miserable. And an absolute liability at Safety.
We traded for Derrick Martin. I have no idea about his skills. We'll find out this week as he's in the starting line-up.
The Rams are on tap this week. Arguably the worst team in the NFL. They must be our remedy. Short passes. Yards after the catch. The ball in Jennings hands streaking towards the secondary. The dump off to Lee. Short slants to Nelson. Crossing routes to Driver, Jones. J-Mike down the seam. It's basic football. Return to the roots. It'll open up the run game. Where did the shovel pass go? Each week, others find great success with it. We used to run it better than anyone. Go back to it. What about the delayed screen? Get after it!
Grant & Jennings were extremely unproductive last week, but at some point, it's the Coach's job to make certain that they get the ball in position to succeed - to get them in the flow of the game. In basketball, when your shooter goes cold, the coach tries to find a way to get him a lay-up. Find his rhythm. In football, when the WR is struggling to get open, you throw him a screen. Let him feel the pigskin.
Defensively, I'm over Nick Barnett, Brady Poppinga, and AJ Hawk. I'd prefer to see us go with Bishop, Matthews and Chillar. I can't stand missed tackles. And Barnett, Poppinga and Hawk look like they are practicing ballet as they are dancing with offensive lineman, TE's and fullbacks. They ran right at Poppinga. Brady was a poser. A week earlier, Matthews was a star against the run. Insert him in the line-up full time. Immediately.
Additionally, what are we saving Raji for? Get him in the line-up. No more Montgomery!
The Rams OL is beat up. First round pick Jason Smith remains out due to injury. This should make it difficult for the Rams to open up holes for Steven Jackson. I'll state the obvious: offensively, the Rams are going to try to pound away at us with Jackson and take chances deep with Donnie Avery. They'll also attack our LB's with Randy McMichael on short passes.
Defensively, they will attack with a variety of blitzes. Head coach Steve Spagnuolo is one of the brightest defensive minds in the leage. Expect Will Weatherspoon and James Laurinaitis pursuing, forcing our Tackles to make spontaneous blocking assignment decisions. Chris Long will make life difficult for Daryn Colledge. Long has an endless motor. Also, keep an eye on nickel back, #32, Bradley Fletcher. He's a rookie from Iowa. He's a hard nosed tackler who will develop into a decent starting CB. Today, he'll struggle to cover the likes of Jennings and Driver. I'd attack him.
I am amazed with Oshiomogho Atogwe's game. I have wanted him to become a Packer over the past two years when he was a RFA. I would offer a 1st Round pick for him and feel that he's a top 4 safety in the NFL along with Palomalu, Reed, and Nintendo Nick. It would not surprise me if he forces a turnover.
Ultimately, we have too much firepower for the Rams and for the first time in the regular season, the juggernaut is clear and present! Grant finds the end zone. So does Jennings.
Matthews records his 2nd sack of the year. Chuckie grabs his 3rd pick. Jenkins dominates the line of scrimmage. The defense rebounds in a physical way.
Green Bay 30. St. Louis 16. Finally, we get to 30 points!
Walk to the front. Open the gate. Feel like 12-time World Champions. Prosper.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
My Take -> Week 2
Greetings, G-Force.
The take comes early this week as I'm heading up to Lambeau this weekend and to celebrate Vargas waning days as a bachelor. A 1-0 start feels good. Though it was frustrating, I blame myself for setting my expectations as high as I did. Regardless, its' great to sin against your most hated rival, at home, in the opener! If you listen closely enough, music will direct you throughout life. Two bands that I spend a lot of time listening to are Yonder Mountain and Michael Franti. Two of their songs that I regularly jam are "Complicated" and "Have a Little Faith" (Hi Patrick). Yonder provides reasoning for my gripping emotions: "In my own defense, I don't believe that I was born this complicated." And Franti is UNO-DOS! echoing "Have a Little Faith in Me." Not that I doubted. Never did. In fact, I was counting down the yards to FG range. Nonetheless, you feel what I'm saying. I know you do.
First and foremost, much props goes out to the G-Force that was in attendance. You brought it. It was loud. It was clear. Even through the TV. You could feel the intensity. I'm certain that you altered Lovie Smith's decision making capabilities and impacted Jay Cutler's buzz. We need a repeat performance in Week 2.
Many concerns came out of our performance. Shame on us for not being better prepared and acutely aware that Barbre's performance was a legitimate possibility. All pre-season we talked about how he was a potential liability. In Week 1, he was.
In many ways, it reminds me of 1996. Yes, I love to reflect and compare. I cherish the history of the Green Bay Packers. Probably too much. Any way, a lot of the pieces seem to be in place. But, we fail at Tackle. Heading into 1996, LT was our question mark due to the uncertainty surrounding Ken Ruettgers status. Ruettgers played in 4 games. Gary Brown and John Michels were supposed to replace him. Both were young, inexperienced and incapable. We were left with Bruce Wilkerson, our veteran insurance policy. He protected us at the end of the season and throughout the playoffs. I sense similarities in 2009. Tauscher goes down. Barbre and Lang are unable to play adequately. If Tauscher is unable to return, I'm hoping that we have Jon Runyan's phone number handy. If we don't hurry, the Eagles will beat us to it, just as they did Jeff Garcia.
Defensively, we were outstanding. Al Harris playing as though he was 25 years old. Aggressively attacking ball carriers. T-Mon, one of the fastest rising CB's in the NFL. Nintendo Nick reading the QB's eyes. Cullen Jenkins playing at an All-Pro level. Johnny Jolly feeling ecstasy without codeine in his body. Pickett holding the point. CM3 forcing Forte to the inside - allowing Hawk and Chillar to both make plays behind the line of scrimmage. Chillar blitzing with a vengeance. CM3 & AK-74 applying pressure but unable to wrap up Cutler. We looked spectacular defensively and our best defensive player, Mr. Charles Woodson, played his worst game as a Packer. Defensively, somebody was winning an individual battle almost every play. It was beautiful to watch.
I was disappointed with our play calling early in the game. I thought that the pass could have set up the run. We had small success early throwing the football. Then we went with a predictable wishbone-style 3 RB set with 2 FB's. We tried to smash mouth a football team that was more physical than us. It seemed to disrupt our offensive rhythm early in the game.
Ultimately, it was UNO-DOS! providing his first NFL act as Houdini! Hanging tough under pressure with the Bear defense piling on, it was UNO-DOS finding the yellow wristbands sprinting down the sideline past a washed-up Vasher. Tremendous! A struggling, frustrated, annoyed UNO-DOS! providing an MVP moment to remind the G-Force that the Bears still suck!
This weekend - it's the Bengals coming to town. The Bengals might be the recipe that the Packers offense needs to regain our momentum. After watching the replay of the Bengals game, I saw an opportunity for our offense to make big plays - especially with the TE over the middle of the field.
I'm curious to see Michael Johnson play for the Bengals. Leading up to the draft, I was convinced that he'd be able to play at this level. My eyes will be on him. Credit the Bengals for also adding Roy Williams and Rey Maualuga on defense. Both have added an attitude to the defense that has not existed since Odell Thurman's exit. I really like Leon Hall at CB and Johnathan Joseph is an athletic CB as well. Dhani Jones and Antwan Odom are average ball players. Chris Crocker at S is about to get abused. Robert Geathers is not a threat.
Offensively, Carson Palmer looks to have lost confidence. Laverneus Coles appeared as though he did not care. Chad Johnson is a fraud. Andre Caldwell became Palmer's go-to-guy in Week 1 down the stretch. I'm curious to see if they give him an enhanced role out of the slot. Chris Henry was largely invisible. Expect the Bengals to take some chances deep down the sideline on bombs to Henry. He has the speed and height to put himself in advantageous positions. Cedric Benson was running with a purpose and was surprisingly able to grab the corner on a couple of occasions. The Bengals OL is bad. Really bad. We should have at least 4 sacks this weekend and endless pressure on the QB.
In Week 1, UNO-DOS! connected with 7 receivers. In Week 2, it would not surprise me if he connects with 9 receivers. Nelson and Jones will catch their first passes of the season. Jones looked frustrated as he was open on a couple of occasions and UNO-DOS! did not notice him.
I hope to see the Packers utilize Jones on the drag route that he ran so effectively in 2007. 4 wide. Single back. Jones lined up outside. Driver inside of him. Driver is sent down the middle on a fly route. Jones comes underneath the coverage 5-7 yards down field. He's hit in stride and picking up 12-18 yards. It's an added dimension.
J-Mike catches 5 balls this week. An emphasis is put on getting him in position to succeed.
Ryan Grant leaps over 100 yards.
Greg Jennings gets deep for another long TD.
Chuckie grabs his 1st interception of the year. T-Mon snatches his second.
Desmond Bishop and Brandon Chillar are used as ILB's on inside blitz packages. Their presence is felt.
Raji makes his debut.
The juggernaut is back. The Packers are 2-0. I'm hoarse on Monday morning.
Green Bay 38. Cincinnati 13.
This one feels good. Really good.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
The take comes early this week as I'm heading up to Lambeau this weekend and to celebrate Vargas waning days as a bachelor. A 1-0 start feels good. Though it was frustrating, I blame myself for setting my expectations as high as I did. Regardless, its' great to sin against your most hated rival, at home, in the opener! If you listen closely enough, music will direct you throughout life. Two bands that I spend a lot of time listening to are Yonder Mountain and Michael Franti. Two of their songs that I regularly jam are "Complicated" and "Have a Little Faith" (Hi Patrick). Yonder provides reasoning for my gripping emotions: "In my own defense, I don't believe that I was born this complicated." And Franti is UNO-DOS! echoing "Have a Little Faith in Me." Not that I doubted. Never did. In fact, I was counting down the yards to FG range. Nonetheless, you feel what I'm saying. I know you do.
First and foremost, much props goes out to the G-Force that was in attendance. You brought it. It was loud. It was clear. Even through the TV. You could feel the intensity. I'm certain that you altered Lovie Smith's decision making capabilities and impacted Jay Cutler's buzz. We need a repeat performance in Week 2.
Many concerns came out of our performance. Shame on us for not being better prepared and acutely aware that Barbre's performance was a legitimate possibility. All pre-season we talked about how he was a potential liability. In Week 1, he was.
In many ways, it reminds me of 1996. Yes, I love to reflect and compare. I cherish the history of the Green Bay Packers. Probably too much. Any way, a lot of the pieces seem to be in place. But, we fail at Tackle. Heading into 1996, LT was our question mark due to the uncertainty surrounding Ken Ruettgers status. Ruettgers played in 4 games. Gary Brown and John Michels were supposed to replace him. Both were young, inexperienced and incapable. We were left with Bruce Wilkerson, our veteran insurance policy. He protected us at the end of the season and throughout the playoffs. I sense similarities in 2009. Tauscher goes down. Barbre and Lang are unable to play adequately. If Tauscher is unable to return, I'm hoping that we have Jon Runyan's phone number handy. If we don't hurry, the Eagles will beat us to it, just as they did Jeff Garcia.
Defensively, we were outstanding. Al Harris playing as though he was 25 years old. Aggressively attacking ball carriers. T-Mon, one of the fastest rising CB's in the NFL. Nintendo Nick reading the QB's eyes. Cullen Jenkins playing at an All-Pro level. Johnny Jolly feeling ecstasy without codeine in his body. Pickett holding the point. CM3 forcing Forte to the inside - allowing Hawk and Chillar to both make plays behind the line of scrimmage. Chillar blitzing with a vengeance. CM3 & AK-74 applying pressure but unable to wrap up Cutler. We looked spectacular defensively and our best defensive player, Mr. Charles Woodson, played his worst game as a Packer. Defensively, somebody was winning an individual battle almost every play. It was beautiful to watch.
I was disappointed with our play calling early in the game. I thought that the pass could have set up the run. We had small success early throwing the football. Then we went with a predictable wishbone-style 3 RB set with 2 FB's. We tried to smash mouth a football team that was more physical than us. It seemed to disrupt our offensive rhythm early in the game.
Ultimately, it was UNO-DOS! providing his first NFL act as Houdini! Hanging tough under pressure with the Bear defense piling on, it was UNO-DOS finding the yellow wristbands sprinting down the sideline past a washed-up Vasher. Tremendous! A struggling, frustrated, annoyed UNO-DOS! providing an MVP moment to remind the G-Force that the Bears still suck!
This weekend - it's the Bengals coming to town. The Bengals might be the recipe that the Packers offense needs to regain our momentum. After watching the replay of the Bengals game, I saw an opportunity for our offense to make big plays - especially with the TE over the middle of the field.
I'm curious to see Michael Johnson play for the Bengals. Leading up to the draft, I was convinced that he'd be able to play at this level. My eyes will be on him. Credit the Bengals for also adding Roy Williams and Rey Maualuga on defense. Both have added an attitude to the defense that has not existed since Odell Thurman's exit. I really like Leon Hall at CB and Johnathan Joseph is an athletic CB as well. Dhani Jones and Antwan Odom are average ball players. Chris Crocker at S is about to get abused. Robert Geathers is not a threat.
Offensively, Carson Palmer looks to have lost confidence. Laverneus Coles appeared as though he did not care. Chad Johnson is a fraud. Andre Caldwell became Palmer's go-to-guy in Week 1 down the stretch. I'm curious to see if they give him an enhanced role out of the slot. Chris Henry was largely invisible. Expect the Bengals to take some chances deep down the sideline on bombs to Henry. He has the speed and height to put himself in advantageous positions. Cedric Benson was running with a purpose and was surprisingly able to grab the corner on a couple of occasions. The Bengals OL is bad. Really bad. We should have at least 4 sacks this weekend and endless pressure on the QB.
In Week 1, UNO-DOS! connected with 7 receivers. In Week 2, it would not surprise me if he connects with 9 receivers. Nelson and Jones will catch their first passes of the season. Jones looked frustrated as he was open on a couple of occasions and UNO-DOS! did not notice him.
I hope to see the Packers utilize Jones on the drag route that he ran so effectively in 2007. 4 wide. Single back. Jones lined up outside. Driver inside of him. Driver is sent down the middle on a fly route. Jones comes underneath the coverage 5-7 yards down field. He's hit in stride and picking up 12-18 yards. It's an added dimension.
J-Mike catches 5 balls this week. An emphasis is put on getting him in position to succeed.
Ryan Grant leaps over 100 yards.
Greg Jennings gets deep for another long TD.
Chuckie grabs his 1st interception of the year. T-Mon snatches his second.
Desmond Bishop and Brandon Chillar are used as ILB's on inside blitz packages. Their presence is felt.
Raji makes his debut.
The juggernaut is back. The Packers are 2-0. I'm hoarse on Monday morning.
Green Bay 38. Cincinnati 13.
This one feels good. Really good.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
My Take -> Week 1
Greetings, G-Force.
Sorry New York. Sorry Boston. Baseball is no longer America's Pastime and you are not the greatest rivalry in sports. Football most satisfies sports fans cravings and the dynamic differences between the immense city of Chicago and the Dairyland metropolis of Green Bay elicits a unique competitive flavor.
The Green Bay Packers hosting the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field bringing closure to the opening Sunday of the NFL Season. Beyond epic. Hell, this is so good that even Roger Goodell will be in attendance.
The rivalry celebrates its 88th anniversary this year. The Bears lead the all-time series 91-80-6. Throughout the 88 years, the teams have combined for 21 NFL Championships and 48 Hall of Famers. 2009 offers an exceptional vibe as both teams are receiving national recognition as potential Super Bowl contenders. Additionally, both teams are well equipped with MVP caliber QB's. It's amazing to think that it culminates in Week 1. Yes, I'm slapping my head right now and * just looked at me like I'm crazy! I might be.
I imagine the FIB'ers will be making there way to Green Bay - Nate Brown included - and they'll have a presence among the G-Force faithful. However, in no way, will they interrupt the celebration that is set to launch this Sunday Night. The Lambeau Faithful has waited 20 months for this game. We've been waiting to feed our Packers jones. Our appetite for football is immense. Lambeau is ready to explode.
The Packers get the ball first and UNO-DOS! goes to work and attacks the defunct Bears secondary. Though it appears Charles Tillman will play after missing all of training camp, the Bears secondary is far the level it once played at. Nathan Vasher has been picked on since he got his contract. Trumaine McBride, a 5-9 7th round pick is expected to see significant playing time. While Kevin Payne and Daniel Manning have a knack for making the big play, they're also often found out of position. The Packers take advantage. It's Jennings - yellow wrist banded - for a 1st down. It's J-Mike introducing himself to the '09 season. We're into Bears territory.
Grant goes to work. The cut back. Tinoisamoa, Urlacher & Briggs are grabbing air. Grant is picking up 1st downs, falling forward, and the Packers are in FG range.
We aren't settling for 3. It's UNO-DOS! to Jennings on the skinny post for 6 and the Packers take a 7-0 lead.
The new look defense shows it's face. Playing in front of an elevated crowd. Off your ass. On your feet, Lambeau! In the early goings, we're prepared for Forte. Cutler shows nerves and misses Olsen. We're off the field!
UNO-DOS! is back. Gifted. Ready to embrace the spotlight. This is his team. This is his time to emphatically show the world that he's a colossal successor who is primed to keep the NFL's most storied franchise among the elite.
UNO-DOS! needles one to Double-D. He checks down to Lee. The Packers keep the Bears spread out with 4 & 5 receiver sets keeping the Bears out of their base 4-3 defense and limiting them to 2 LB's, which limits the Bears physical presence. The Packers take a two-score lead.
Unlike last year though, these Bears don't lay down and play dead. They'll have fight. They'll be opportunistic.
We've shown deficiencies, soft spots in our zone. Mainly over the middle of the field in front of the safeties and behind the LB's. Cutler causes problems rolling out of the pocket and finding his TE's, Olsen and Desmond Clark. He finds Earl Bennett for 10-12 yard gains. Forte punishes his way into the end zone. I wish Forte wasn't a Bear because I like his game a lot.
The 2nd and 3rd Quarters are a dog fight. A nail biter. And then the momentum swings in the Packers favor. CM3, who I've aptly named the "Cutler Killer" immediately after drafting him, bursts around Orlando Pace and gets to Cutler for his 1st sack. Mentally, Cutler is rattled. In 37 games, Cutler has thrown 37 interceptions. The numbers don't lie and Nintendo Nick steps in front of a pass to change the tide back towards the Packers.
UNO-DOS! connects with J-Mike for his 1st TD of the season and the Packers take a two-score lead.
The G-Force is felt. The national audience takes notice the Pack is Back and that we're a force to be reckoned with in 2009.
Green Bay 30. Chicago 23.
Represent, represent! It's UNO-DOS! over Cutler. The Packers are 1-0. The Bears, my least favorite team in all of sports, drop to 0-1.
The Bears still suck.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Sorry New York. Sorry Boston. Baseball is no longer America's Pastime and you are not the greatest rivalry in sports. Football most satisfies sports fans cravings and the dynamic differences between the immense city of Chicago and the Dairyland metropolis of Green Bay elicits a unique competitive flavor.
The Green Bay Packers hosting the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field bringing closure to the opening Sunday of the NFL Season. Beyond epic. Hell, this is so good that even Roger Goodell will be in attendance.
The rivalry celebrates its 88th anniversary this year. The Bears lead the all-time series 91-80-6. Throughout the 88 years, the teams have combined for 21 NFL Championships and 48 Hall of Famers. 2009 offers an exceptional vibe as both teams are receiving national recognition as potential Super Bowl contenders. Additionally, both teams are well equipped with MVP caliber QB's. It's amazing to think that it culminates in Week 1. Yes, I'm slapping my head right now and * just looked at me like I'm crazy! I might be.
I imagine the FIB'ers will be making there way to Green Bay - Nate Brown included - and they'll have a presence among the G-Force faithful. However, in no way, will they interrupt the celebration that is set to launch this Sunday Night. The Lambeau Faithful has waited 20 months for this game. We've been waiting to feed our Packers jones. Our appetite for football is immense. Lambeau is ready to explode.
The Packers get the ball first and UNO-DOS! goes to work and attacks the defunct Bears secondary. Though it appears Charles Tillman will play after missing all of training camp, the Bears secondary is far the level it once played at. Nathan Vasher has been picked on since he got his contract. Trumaine McBride, a 5-9 7th round pick is expected to see significant playing time. While Kevin Payne and Daniel Manning have a knack for making the big play, they're also often found out of position. The Packers take advantage. It's Jennings - yellow wrist banded - for a 1st down. It's J-Mike introducing himself to the '09 season. We're into Bears territory.
Grant goes to work. The cut back. Tinoisamoa, Urlacher & Briggs are grabbing air. Grant is picking up 1st downs, falling forward, and the Packers are in FG range.
We aren't settling for 3. It's UNO-DOS! to Jennings on the skinny post for 6 and the Packers take a 7-0 lead.
The new look defense shows it's face. Playing in front of an elevated crowd. Off your ass. On your feet, Lambeau! In the early goings, we're prepared for Forte. Cutler shows nerves and misses Olsen. We're off the field!
UNO-DOS! is back. Gifted. Ready to embrace the spotlight. This is his team. This is his time to emphatically show the world that he's a colossal successor who is primed to keep the NFL's most storied franchise among the elite.
UNO-DOS! needles one to Double-D. He checks down to Lee. The Packers keep the Bears spread out with 4 & 5 receiver sets keeping the Bears out of their base 4-3 defense and limiting them to 2 LB's, which limits the Bears physical presence. The Packers take a two-score lead.
Unlike last year though, these Bears don't lay down and play dead. They'll have fight. They'll be opportunistic.
We've shown deficiencies, soft spots in our zone. Mainly over the middle of the field in front of the safeties and behind the LB's. Cutler causes problems rolling out of the pocket and finding his TE's, Olsen and Desmond Clark. He finds Earl Bennett for 10-12 yard gains. Forte punishes his way into the end zone. I wish Forte wasn't a Bear because I like his game a lot.
The 2nd and 3rd Quarters are a dog fight. A nail biter. And then the momentum swings in the Packers favor. CM3, who I've aptly named the "Cutler Killer" immediately after drafting him, bursts around Orlando Pace and gets to Cutler for his 1st sack. Mentally, Cutler is rattled. In 37 games, Cutler has thrown 37 interceptions. The numbers don't lie and Nintendo Nick steps in front of a pass to change the tide back towards the Packers.
UNO-DOS! connects with J-Mike for his 1st TD of the season and the Packers take a two-score lead.
The G-Force is felt. The national audience takes notice the Pack is Back and that we're a force to be reckoned with in 2009.
Green Bay 30. Chicago 23.
Represent, represent! It's UNO-DOS! over Cutler. The Packers are 1-0. The Bears, my least favorite team in all of sports, drop to 0-1.
The Bears still suck.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Sunday, September 6, 2009
53-Man Roster
Greetings, G-Force.
Admittedly, my mind is not totally fit today. A weekend filled with Reggae music and a Festival date sponsored by the Kona Brewing company tends to do that to a man. Furthermore, how often do you get to see both Lee "Scratch" Perry and Bunny Wailer on the same day? It felt like I was living in 1977. The vibe was full. My apologies if this writing seems scrambled. I'm sure you understand.
Clearly, I did not watch the same football as the Packers brass did during the preseason. To say that I am surprised over the 53-man roster is an understatement. For years, we've been married to the likes of highly unproductive players such as J-Bush and Michael Montgomery. Yet, they will stick around for another season. Seems like bad management to me.
Anthony Smith was a roller coaster, but at least he had high points that included a sack and 2 interceptions. yet, he failed to make the team. I was shocked that Ruvell Martin was cut. Granted, I've been over him since his drop in the '07 NFC Championship. Still, he's a better football player than Brett Swain. Martin has also been a decent gunner for us on special teams. Management must feel that Swain has been better. He's also $700,000 cheaper. If it's to save cap room. Please spread the wealth. Hand it to Collins, T-Mon, Colledge, Spitz or Driver. Please pass it on, Ted.
Tyrell Sutton performed remarkably well throughout the preseason. He did everything possible to make the team. He literally had no chance. Our RB spots were predetermined.
It's evident that we've stacked our team to play special teams. J-Bush, Havner, Swain, Hall/Kuhn, and Willie B. were all kept because they improve the special teams units. We'll see if that's the case when the Bears come to town this Sunday.
Keeping 3 FB's and 3 TE's? Are we the 1st team in NFL History to keep 3 FB's? There must be a deal pending. This seems illogical to me.
I'm fine with the release of Brohm - even though I'd have given him another year. However, now that he's been released, can we please sign a veteran QB? If we don't like Griese, sign Garcia! Jeff Garcia would immediately provide an upgrade. Here's the scenario: Keep Flynn as the #2 as he's the holder. Garcia is inactive. But, if UNO-DOS! goes down, Garcia plays and Flynn becomes inactive for the game. At that stage, Kapinos comes on to be the holder. Garcia would give us a better chance to win.
This years roster shows how bad Thompson has whiffed in the early rounds. Harrell, P-Lee and Brohm will have no impact. What a shame!
In the "Who Are You Watching Now?" portion of the blog, I'd be remissed if I did not write about the Georgia-Oklahoma State game. As mentioned, I attended a DubFest on Saturday and taped the game. I'm thankful I did. Overall, I was disappointed with the level of play that I watched on the opening weekend of college football. But, there were some stars in the Oklahoma-Georgia game. I tuned in to watch Dez Bryant, Reshad Jones and Perrish Cox. All played great. Additionally, I witnessed "the Punisher" - Lucien Antoine. He's a safety for Oklahoma State. 6-1. 215. Fast to the ball. Helmet on ball. Wraps up. Sure tackler. Attacking. Intense. I'm excited to see more of him. Dez Bryant is the best player in college football. I feel that he's a better WR than Michael Crabtree. Reshad Jones would look great in Green & Gold. Perrish Cox fits the style of player that Ted Thompson would draft. Big. Fast. Physical. Plays special teams at a high level. Bottom line: A good recession activity is to watch Oklahoma State Football.
Stack, I watched Stevenson Sylvester on Thursday night for a bit. Love his make. The leader, play caller of the Utah defense. Love his pursuit, great in-game passion. Got caught out of position. He seems to have the size, speed and attitude to be a difference maker in the middle of a 3-4 defense. Looked as though Utah is often playing a 3-4 defense. The experience he's getting is invaluable. Great article on him: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/preview09/news/story?id=4423204
Initial 2010 Mock Draft:
Round 1 - Reshad Jones, S, Georgia. We need help at Safety. He'd be the answer.
Round 2 - Stevenson Sylvester, LB, Utah.
Round 3 - Perrish Cox, CB, OK State. Sorry Brandon James. You know I love your return skills. But, Cox would step in and immediately help on special teams and be our 4th CB.
Round 4 - Garrett Graham, TE, WI. He has all the tools to be a starter in the NFL. Great hands. Solid blocker. Not afraid of contact. He'd be a perfect compliment to J-Mike.
Round 5 - Lucien Antoine, S, Oklahoma State. We need to continue to add play makers in the DB. Jones, Cox, and Antoine are just that.
Round 6 - Jeff Owens, DT, Georgia. Beats out Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee. Both are big boys who hold the point. We need more strength on the DL. Both have the size to play an end in 3-4.
Round 7 - Todd Reesing, QB, Kansas. You cannot like football and not enjoy watching this kid play.
As the college season progresses, we'll re-evaluate.
Stoked for the regular season.
Be good.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Admittedly, my mind is not totally fit today. A weekend filled with Reggae music and a Festival date sponsored by the Kona Brewing company tends to do that to a man. Furthermore, how often do you get to see both Lee "Scratch" Perry and Bunny Wailer on the same day? It felt like I was living in 1977. The vibe was full. My apologies if this writing seems scrambled. I'm sure you understand.
Clearly, I did not watch the same football as the Packers brass did during the preseason. To say that I am surprised over the 53-man roster is an understatement. For years, we've been married to the likes of highly unproductive players such as J-Bush and Michael Montgomery. Yet, they will stick around for another season. Seems like bad management to me.
Anthony Smith was a roller coaster, but at least he had high points that included a sack and 2 interceptions. yet, he failed to make the team. I was shocked that Ruvell Martin was cut. Granted, I've been over him since his drop in the '07 NFC Championship. Still, he's a better football player than Brett Swain. Martin has also been a decent gunner for us on special teams. Management must feel that Swain has been better. He's also $700,000 cheaper. If it's to save cap room. Please spread the wealth. Hand it to Collins, T-Mon, Colledge, Spitz or Driver. Please pass it on, Ted.
Tyrell Sutton performed remarkably well throughout the preseason. He did everything possible to make the team. He literally had no chance. Our RB spots were predetermined.
It's evident that we've stacked our team to play special teams. J-Bush, Havner, Swain, Hall/Kuhn, and Willie B. were all kept because they improve the special teams units. We'll see if that's the case when the Bears come to town this Sunday.
Keeping 3 FB's and 3 TE's? Are we the 1st team in NFL History to keep 3 FB's? There must be a deal pending. This seems illogical to me.
I'm fine with the release of Brohm - even though I'd have given him another year. However, now that he's been released, can we please sign a veteran QB? If we don't like Griese, sign Garcia! Jeff Garcia would immediately provide an upgrade. Here's the scenario: Keep Flynn as the #2 as he's the holder. Garcia is inactive. But, if UNO-DOS! goes down, Garcia plays and Flynn becomes inactive for the game. At that stage, Kapinos comes on to be the holder. Garcia would give us a better chance to win.
This years roster shows how bad Thompson has whiffed in the early rounds. Harrell, P-Lee and Brohm will have no impact. What a shame!
In the "Who Are You Watching Now?" portion of the blog, I'd be remissed if I did not write about the Georgia-Oklahoma State game. As mentioned, I attended a DubFest on Saturday and taped the game. I'm thankful I did. Overall, I was disappointed with the level of play that I watched on the opening weekend of college football. But, there were some stars in the Oklahoma-Georgia game. I tuned in to watch Dez Bryant, Reshad Jones and Perrish Cox. All played great. Additionally, I witnessed "the Punisher" - Lucien Antoine. He's a safety for Oklahoma State. 6-1. 215. Fast to the ball. Helmet on ball. Wraps up. Sure tackler. Attacking. Intense. I'm excited to see more of him. Dez Bryant is the best player in college football. I feel that he's a better WR than Michael Crabtree. Reshad Jones would look great in Green & Gold. Perrish Cox fits the style of player that Ted Thompson would draft. Big. Fast. Physical. Plays special teams at a high level. Bottom line: A good recession activity is to watch Oklahoma State Football.
Stack, I watched Stevenson Sylvester on Thursday night for a bit. Love his make. The leader, play caller of the Utah defense. Love his pursuit, great in-game passion. Got caught out of position. He seems to have the size, speed and attitude to be a difference maker in the middle of a 3-4 defense. Looked as though Utah is often playing a 3-4 defense. The experience he's getting is invaluable. Great article on him: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/preview09/news/story?id=4423204
Initial 2010 Mock Draft:
Round 1 - Reshad Jones, S, Georgia. We need help at Safety. He'd be the answer.
Round 2 - Stevenson Sylvester, LB, Utah.
Round 3 - Perrish Cox, CB, OK State. Sorry Brandon James. You know I love your return skills. But, Cox would step in and immediately help on special teams and be our 4th CB.
Round 4 - Garrett Graham, TE, WI. He has all the tools to be a starter in the NFL. Great hands. Solid blocker. Not afraid of contact. He'd be a perfect compliment to J-Mike.
Round 5 - Lucien Antoine, S, Oklahoma State. We need to continue to add play makers in the DB. Jones, Cox, and Antoine are just that.
Round 6 - Jeff Owens, DT, Georgia. Beats out Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee. Both are big boys who hold the point. We need more strength on the DL. Both have the size to play an end in 3-4.
Round 7 - Todd Reesing, QB, Kansas. You cannot like football and not enjoy watching this kid play.
As the college season progresses, we'll re-evaluate.
Stoked for the regular season.
Be good.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
My Take -> Preseason Game #4
Greetings, G-Force.
The 2009 Green Bay Packers performance could be defined as a massive inexorable force. Sheer offensive and defensive brilliance. With the exception of AJ Hawk's weak effort on Beanie Wells' TD, the 1st unit was flawless.
UNO-DOS! was demonstrative. He is an MVP candidate.
Mr. Charles Woodson looks primed for a Defensive MVP type season. Where Troy Polamalu is used as a cross between a LB and S, Charles Woodson appears to be a CB/S hybrid. For a career, 40 interceptions and 20 sacks would garner Mr. Woodson as a HOF candidate. He's presently at 36 interceptions and 9.5 sacks. If he's used on the blitz as he was against the Cardinals, it would not shock me if Mr. Woodson eclipsed 5 sacks this year. A 5.5 sack, 6 interception season is within the realm of possibility. Have I ever mentioned that he's the only defensive player to ever win the Heisman? A cross between a Wolverine & a Packer. God, do I love him. That's it. I'm going to ante up. I will own an authentic Home Green Woodson jersey. He's authentic. A true professional. I'm shocked that it has taken me this long.
J-Mike continues to be UNO-DOS!'s third option. This will mean less catches for Jones, Lee, and Nelson. But, it'll create additional mismatches for the competition and it'll offer McCarthy an abundance of formation options.
James Jones continues to look more fit than in past years. He looks more elusive. More fit. More conditioned. Ready to once again be the guy that he was at the start of the '07 season.
The UNO-DOS! to Nelson touchdown was a thing of beauty. Yes, it was only the preseason. I don't care. DRC and Rolle were looking into the backfield. Nelson was streaking. UNO-DOS! was in disguise. And it was magical. A thing of beauty. And it offered hope for BIG plays out of the play-action.
We have tough decisions at RB. Lumpkin has no chance. None at all. Extremely disappointed in his effort. Sutton's ability to run over the DB on the third down reception was a thing of beauty. For me, that type of play earns him a roster spot. I'm not sure that we have another back that would have got that first down, including Grant. Speaking of Grant, isn't it great to see him running down hill once again?!?! Falling forward. A total treat. Wynn's spin move was indicative of his ability. Just wish we could see more consistency. B-Jack has had his best camp and it'll probably be enough to hold off stiff camp competition. We'll find out on Thursday Night.
The Kuhn/Hall experiment at TE is proof that we will go with only 2 TE's, but that we will once again keep 2 FB's. To my eye, Kuhn continues to outperform Hall. Quinn Johnson has to be a lock for the squad.
Anthony Smith has outplayed Ras-A-tari all preseason. His experience in the 3-4 is significant and he's used it to his advantage.
AJ Hawk has barely been deserving of a roster spot this preseason. Chillar and Bishop have been undeniably better than him.
Every game, Jarius Wynn has made a play. Sure, our defense was torched for big yards and points in the 2nd half against Arizona, but I thought Wynn was at least fighting. He'll make the roster and should be in the rotation.
The 4th preseason game in normally the most boring of the bunch. Not this year. I'm stoked for it. My Friday Night will consist of going to see "The Harder They Come" play followed by the 11:30 replay of the Packers-Titans battle. I've loaded up with a bottle of Zyr for the contest. Buzzed, I'll be.
I'd play UNO-DOS! and crew for one series. Keep the rhythm. I'd try play-action and attempt to hit Jordy on another deep one. If it works, it could be 80 yards and a Green Bay Packer TD. It'd also complete a preseason in which the Packers 1st team did not punt.
I believe that this will mark the 4th consecutive year in which the Packers and Titans have finished the preseason against each other. In the past, the Titans have won as they play their starters for the entire 1st half while the Packers rest the starters. Again, on Thursday, the Titans will play the starters for a half while the Packers will only play the 1st team for a possession. The Titans will probably win on the scoreboard, but this game will be invaluable to the Packers depth.
For the record, as I've wrote since his draft day, I've never liked Brian Brohm. But, he deserves a third year. UNO-DOS! struggled mightily for two preseasons. We invested a 2nd round pick on Brohm. The snaps that he'll get on Friday are all part of his development. As a whole, when you look at the '08 QB draft class after Flacco and Ryan, it's really disappointing. The '08 draft class was supposed to have good depth at QB. Yet, Brohm has been a bust. Josh Johnson might not make the team in Tampa. Kevin O'Connell has already been released. Chad Henne has disappointed. John David Booty has not done anything to warrant optimism. Andre Woodson has not made an impact. Paul Smith has disappeared. Dennis Dixon has looked like a lost cause. I'm just saying.
Thursday Night is a big night for the U-HAUL and his attempt to win the 4th CB spot. Supposedly, he's going to be the starter and he'll have the opportunity to see heavy playing time. It's his chance to shine. I'm pulling for him.
Brad Jones is going to get an extensive look as a pass rushing OLB. It should be emphasized that on obvious passing downs, the Packers have played with three down linemen: Kampman, Raji and Jenkins. A good pash rushing performance by Jones could warrant Week 1 playing time. The same could be said about Desmond Bishop out of an ILB position.
Raji needs the additional work to ensure that he's both comfortable with the defense and fit to make an impact in Week 1.
But, let's be clear, the most exciting portion of the final preseason game is that CM3 will be making his Green Bay Packers debut. If the Packers are to be serious Super Bowl contenders...yes, I just wrote that...and yes, it felt really freakin' good! But, if we are to be contenders, CM3 must be a legitimate pass rusher. The most disappointing facet of our preseason has been our lack of ability to get to the QB from the OLB position. CM3 was drafted as the guy who could rush the QB. He has to be our solution. We gave up a lot to get him. Thursday is our first glimpse. I'm stoked.
Somehow. Someway. I hope the Packers add draft picks by weeks end. Our depth should parallel into additional picks. I'd be disappointed if it did not happen.
Anyway, ultimately, the only thing that matters this week is that we escape without injury.
Be Green. Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
The 2009 Green Bay Packers performance could be defined as a massive inexorable force. Sheer offensive and defensive brilliance. With the exception of AJ Hawk's weak effort on Beanie Wells' TD, the 1st unit was flawless.
UNO-DOS! was demonstrative. He is an MVP candidate.
Mr. Charles Woodson looks primed for a Defensive MVP type season. Where Troy Polamalu is used as a cross between a LB and S, Charles Woodson appears to be a CB/S hybrid. For a career, 40 interceptions and 20 sacks would garner Mr. Woodson as a HOF candidate. He's presently at 36 interceptions and 9.5 sacks. If he's used on the blitz as he was against the Cardinals, it would not shock me if Mr. Woodson eclipsed 5 sacks this year. A 5.5 sack, 6 interception season is within the realm of possibility. Have I ever mentioned that he's the only defensive player to ever win the Heisman? A cross between a Wolverine & a Packer. God, do I love him. That's it. I'm going to ante up. I will own an authentic Home Green Woodson jersey. He's authentic. A true professional. I'm shocked that it has taken me this long.
J-Mike continues to be UNO-DOS!'s third option. This will mean less catches for Jones, Lee, and Nelson. But, it'll create additional mismatches for the competition and it'll offer McCarthy an abundance of formation options.
James Jones continues to look more fit than in past years. He looks more elusive. More fit. More conditioned. Ready to once again be the guy that he was at the start of the '07 season.
The UNO-DOS! to Nelson touchdown was a thing of beauty. Yes, it was only the preseason. I don't care. DRC and Rolle were looking into the backfield. Nelson was streaking. UNO-DOS! was in disguise. And it was magical. A thing of beauty. And it offered hope for BIG plays out of the play-action.
We have tough decisions at RB. Lumpkin has no chance. None at all. Extremely disappointed in his effort. Sutton's ability to run over the DB on the third down reception was a thing of beauty. For me, that type of play earns him a roster spot. I'm not sure that we have another back that would have got that first down, including Grant. Speaking of Grant, isn't it great to see him running down hill once again?!?! Falling forward. A total treat. Wynn's spin move was indicative of his ability. Just wish we could see more consistency. B-Jack has had his best camp and it'll probably be enough to hold off stiff camp competition. We'll find out on Thursday Night.
The Kuhn/Hall experiment at TE is proof that we will go with only 2 TE's, but that we will once again keep 2 FB's. To my eye, Kuhn continues to outperform Hall. Quinn Johnson has to be a lock for the squad.
Anthony Smith has outplayed Ras-A-tari all preseason. His experience in the 3-4 is significant and he's used it to his advantage.
AJ Hawk has barely been deserving of a roster spot this preseason. Chillar and Bishop have been undeniably better than him.
Every game, Jarius Wynn has made a play. Sure, our defense was torched for big yards and points in the 2nd half against Arizona, but I thought Wynn was at least fighting. He'll make the roster and should be in the rotation.
The 4th preseason game in normally the most boring of the bunch. Not this year. I'm stoked for it. My Friday Night will consist of going to see "The Harder They Come" play followed by the 11:30 replay of the Packers-Titans battle. I've loaded up with a bottle of Zyr for the contest. Buzzed, I'll be.
I'd play UNO-DOS! and crew for one series. Keep the rhythm. I'd try play-action and attempt to hit Jordy on another deep one. If it works, it could be 80 yards and a Green Bay Packer TD. It'd also complete a preseason in which the Packers 1st team did not punt.
I believe that this will mark the 4th consecutive year in which the Packers and Titans have finished the preseason against each other. In the past, the Titans have won as they play their starters for the entire 1st half while the Packers rest the starters. Again, on Thursday, the Titans will play the starters for a half while the Packers will only play the 1st team for a possession. The Titans will probably win on the scoreboard, but this game will be invaluable to the Packers depth.
For the record, as I've wrote since his draft day, I've never liked Brian Brohm. But, he deserves a third year. UNO-DOS! struggled mightily for two preseasons. We invested a 2nd round pick on Brohm. The snaps that he'll get on Friday are all part of his development. As a whole, when you look at the '08 QB draft class after Flacco and Ryan, it's really disappointing. The '08 draft class was supposed to have good depth at QB. Yet, Brohm has been a bust. Josh Johnson might not make the team in Tampa. Kevin O'Connell has already been released. Chad Henne has disappointed. John David Booty has not done anything to warrant optimism. Andre Woodson has not made an impact. Paul Smith has disappeared. Dennis Dixon has looked like a lost cause. I'm just saying.
Thursday Night is a big night for the U-HAUL and his attempt to win the 4th CB spot. Supposedly, he's going to be the starter and he'll have the opportunity to see heavy playing time. It's his chance to shine. I'm pulling for him.
Brad Jones is going to get an extensive look as a pass rushing OLB. It should be emphasized that on obvious passing downs, the Packers have played with three down linemen: Kampman, Raji and Jenkins. A good pash rushing performance by Jones could warrant Week 1 playing time. The same could be said about Desmond Bishop out of an ILB position.
Raji needs the additional work to ensure that he's both comfortable with the defense and fit to make an impact in Week 1.
But, let's be clear, the most exciting portion of the final preseason game is that CM3 will be making his Green Bay Packers debut. If the Packers are to be serious Super Bowl contenders...yes, I just wrote that...and yes, it felt really freakin' good! But, if we are to be contenders, CM3 must be a legitimate pass rusher. The most disappointing facet of our preseason has been our lack of ability to get to the QB from the OLB position. CM3 was drafted as the guy who could rush the QB. He has to be our solution. We gave up a lot to get him. Thursday is our first glimpse. I'm stoked.
Somehow. Someway. I hope the Packers add draft picks by weeks end. Our depth should parallel into additional picks. I'd be disappointed if it did not happen.
Anyway, ultimately, the only thing that matters this week is that we escape without injury.
Be Green. Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Monday, August 24, 2009
My Take -> Preseason Week 3
Greetings, G-Force.
Since 1996, have you ever been this excited after 2 preseason games? If so, I can't remember the time. In less than 2.5 quarters of play, the Packers 1st unit has outscored the opposition 35-0. That is not an exaggeration. 35-0.
In 6 offensive possessions, our offense has scored 5 TD's. In 7 defensive possessions, our first unit has forced 3 turnovers. We been dominant. Granted, it's been the Bills and the Browns, but man, we've been convincing. And through it all, there have been smiles all around. UNO-DOS!, Jennings, Driver, Grant, J-Mike, Barnett, and Cullen Jenkins are consistently seen having a good time on the sidelines. Congratulating teammates for a job well done. Internally, this team has unity. It's a joy to watch.
Props to UNO-DOS! When we drafted him, I never imagined that he could be this good. Yes, I'm on my high horse, but UNO-DOS! looks primed for what could be an MVP season. He has a plethora of weapons. Grant, Jennings, Driver, J-Mike, and Lee look to be in mid-season form. James Jones looks to be lighter, more agile. Jordy Nelson looks steady. UNO-DOS! for MVP!
I credit UNO-DOS! for his approach to the offseason. All the things I suggested he should be doing last year, he seems to be excelling at this year. He's taken on a leadership role. He's checking down to the TE. He also checked down to Grant for a first down. And most importantly, yes most importantly, he's added the slant to his arsenal. And boy, it was a thing of beauty.
I could argue that Greg Jennings runs the best slant in football. (Quick sidenote: anyone else notice how stallion Greg Jennings' solid yellow wrist bands were? PatRad, dude, you may need to hook those up for you & Baemmert for the season. BOTH WRISTS. We need a little '07 lovin'. Rockin'! I might join you.) Anyway, Jennings runs the slant. Last year, UNO-DOS! could not throw the slant nor the skinny post. Over the offseason he committed himself to it. The slant/skinny post routes will add at least 200 yards and 3 TD's to UNO-DOS!'s totals. Guaranteed. Think Jennings in '07 against the Chargers.
It appears as though J-Mike has become our 3rd receiving option. UNO-DOS! looks to have tremendous confidence in J-Mike. At times, it seems as though he's the #1 option on the play. He's running the crossing routes that James Jones ran in '07. He's a mismatch and displayed more speed against the Bills than I have seen him play with in the past.
The first cut is a week away. I don't remember a time in which the Packers appeared this deep. We have tough decisions at DB, at LB, and at RB/FB. Rouse's injury might have prevented the same scenario at S. Harrell's injury might have done the same on the DL.
On the DL, I imagine we keep Raji, Pickett, Jenkins, Jolly, Montgomery and Wynn. Yes, unfortunately, we will suffer through another year of Montgomery. Hopefully, it's in a limited capacity. Wynn was not as impressive against Buffalo as he was against Cleveland, but he still overpowered his opposition for a 2nd down sack. I was stoked to see that on 3rd downs the Packers moved AK-74 to a down lineman alongside Raji and Jenkins. Add a healthy & productive CM3 and that's fierce!
It seems like this year is much like '07 where everyone is making plays. No one is playing above their ability - each play it's someone new. This formula has worked for us in the past. Statistically, this defense may end up similar to '96. Remember that in '96, Reggie led the Packers will only 8.5 sacks. The '96 defense also had LeRoy Butler, Santana Dotson and Sean Jones all finish with 5-plus sacks. In '96, the Packers defense had 37 sacks. In '07, we had 36 sacks. Last year, we only had 27 sacks. I expect to be in the 36-40 sacks range this year.
Anthony Smith has been all or nothing. He's either been strong on the ball or absolutely boneheaded. I would not like it if he were forced into duty. Ras-A-tari must elevate. Mr. Charles Woodson, Ras-Al, Ras-A-tari, Smith, Nintendo Nick, T-Mon, and Willie B are locks for the team. I like the U-HAUL. He's shown promise. Much more promise than I've seen out of P-Lee in his brief appearances. Where does J-Bush fit in? We just handed him $1 million during the offseason. Could we get a 6th rounder for him? Rouse's injury is a concern.
Credit Dom Capers. We look overly deep at LB. Who do we cut? I read that traditionally in a 3-4, you keep 8 LB's. You'd expect Hawk, Barnett, Thompson, CM3, AK-74, Bishop, and Chillar to be locks. Poppinga is having his best camp. I hope he is trade bait, but at this point, it'd be hard to argue if he were the starting ROLB. I hope this does not end up to be the case, but thus far, man, he's been good in the preseason. Brad Jones made a big sack, forced fumble to set up 3 points. Cyril Obiozor and Danny Lansanah have been impressive projects. They, too, might be trade bait. Or do we only keep 2 TE's in order to keep an extra LB?
Why don't we play Bishop with our first unit? It almost seems like we are trying to put him in position to be a stallion in order to garner interest from other teams scouts. He's been our best 2nd team player.
At FB, Kuhn looks to be the best blocker. He provided a HUGE block on Grant's TD run. Hall was overpowered when we got stopped on 4th & 1. We just spent a high draft pick on Quinn Johnson. You'd expect Quinn to make the roster. Is Hall trade bait?
At RB, who do we keep to back up Grant? All indications are that B-Jack is our go-to guy. But, how could we cut Sutton? If I were coach, I'd give him a look with the #1 unit this week to see if he can perform against the 1st teamers. Lumpkin's fumble cost him a job. The Packers love Wynn. If it were me, I'd keep Sutton & Wynn.
I've seen enough of Breno. He's not a starting RT. He almost killed Flynn, which might have been a blessing because then we would have gone after a back-up QB. Can we please sign a veteran? What are we waiting for? Here's my point: Flynn becomes the sacrificial lamb. True that he's better than Brohm right now, but really, Flynn has not been that impressive. You've invested in Brohm. He's been miserable, but give him another year. Tuck him away. Sign a veteran. See if Flynn can be traded for a 7th rounder. OK, I've beaten this topic up. I'm done with it for a while.
If Wells does not start, does he make the team? He's been far better than Preston, but does Wells have trade value? You know that TT is looking to stock up on picks over the next 10 days. Wells might be a casualty. I hope not. I like his game. And I'm not convinced that Sitton can be an everyday RG.
In the third preseason game, which is usually the best indicator as to how the Regular Season will start out, the Packers go to the desert to play the defending NFC Champs. It'll be great competition and I think the Packers will be more than up for the challenge. I expect us to impress. We are in rhythm. I predict that the Pack jumps out to an early lead. And then we get another solid performance by Sutton and barely enough back-up QB play to hold on.
Packers 27. Cards 23.
D-O-M-I-N-A-T-E.
Cheers,
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Since 1996, have you ever been this excited after 2 preseason games? If so, I can't remember the time. In less than 2.5 quarters of play, the Packers 1st unit has outscored the opposition 35-0. That is not an exaggeration. 35-0.
In 6 offensive possessions, our offense has scored 5 TD's. In 7 defensive possessions, our first unit has forced 3 turnovers. We been dominant. Granted, it's been the Bills and the Browns, but man, we've been convincing. And through it all, there have been smiles all around. UNO-DOS!, Jennings, Driver, Grant, J-Mike, Barnett, and Cullen Jenkins are consistently seen having a good time on the sidelines. Congratulating teammates for a job well done. Internally, this team has unity. It's a joy to watch.
Props to UNO-DOS! When we drafted him, I never imagined that he could be this good. Yes, I'm on my high horse, but UNO-DOS! looks primed for what could be an MVP season. He has a plethora of weapons. Grant, Jennings, Driver, J-Mike, and Lee look to be in mid-season form. James Jones looks to be lighter, more agile. Jordy Nelson looks steady. UNO-DOS! for MVP!
I credit UNO-DOS! for his approach to the offseason. All the things I suggested he should be doing last year, he seems to be excelling at this year. He's taken on a leadership role. He's checking down to the TE. He also checked down to Grant for a first down. And most importantly, yes most importantly, he's added the slant to his arsenal. And boy, it was a thing of beauty.
I could argue that Greg Jennings runs the best slant in football. (Quick sidenote: anyone else notice how stallion Greg Jennings' solid yellow wrist bands were? PatRad, dude, you may need to hook those up for you & Baemmert for the season. BOTH WRISTS. We need a little '07 lovin'. Rockin'! I might join you.) Anyway, Jennings runs the slant. Last year, UNO-DOS! could not throw the slant nor the skinny post. Over the offseason he committed himself to it. The slant/skinny post routes will add at least 200 yards and 3 TD's to UNO-DOS!'s totals. Guaranteed. Think Jennings in '07 against the Chargers.
It appears as though J-Mike has become our 3rd receiving option. UNO-DOS! looks to have tremendous confidence in J-Mike. At times, it seems as though he's the #1 option on the play. He's running the crossing routes that James Jones ran in '07. He's a mismatch and displayed more speed against the Bills than I have seen him play with in the past.
The first cut is a week away. I don't remember a time in which the Packers appeared this deep. We have tough decisions at DB, at LB, and at RB/FB. Rouse's injury might have prevented the same scenario at S. Harrell's injury might have done the same on the DL.
On the DL, I imagine we keep Raji, Pickett, Jenkins, Jolly, Montgomery and Wynn. Yes, unfortunately, we will suffer through another year of Montgomery. Hopefully, it's in a limited capacity. Wynn was not as impressive against Buffalo as he was against Cleveland, but he still overpowered his opposition for a 2nd down sack. I was stoked to see that on 3rd downs the Packers moved AK-74 to a down lineman alongside Raji and Jenkins. Add a healthy & productive CM3 and that's fierce!
It seems like this year is much like '07 where everyone is making plays. No one is playing above their ability - each play it's someone new. This formula has worked for us in the past. Statistically, this defense may end up similar to '96. Remember that in '96, Reggie led the Packers will only 8.5 sacks. The '96 defense also had LeRoy Butler, Santana Dotson and Sean Jones all finish with 5-plus sacks. In '96, the Packers defense had 37 sacks. In '07, we had 36 sacks. Last year, we only had 27 sacks. I expect to be in the 36-40 sacks range this year.
Anthony Smith has been all or nothing. He's either been strong on the ball or absolutely boneheaded. I would not like it if he were forced into duty. Ras-A-tari must elevate. Mr. Charles Woodson, Ras-Al, Ras-A-tari, Smith, Nintendo Nick, T-Mon, and Willie B are locks for the team. I like the U-HAUL. He's shown promise. Much more promise than I've seen out of P-Lee in his brief appearances. Where does J-Bush fit in? We just handed him $1 million during the offseason. Could we get a 6th rounder for him? Rouse's injury is a concern.
Credit Dom Capers. We look overly deep at LB. Who do we cut? I read that traditionally in a 3-4, you keep 8 LB's. You'd expect Hawk, Barnett, Thompson, CM3, AK-74, Bishop, and Chillar to be locks. Poppinga is having his best camp. I hope he is trade bait, but at this point, it'd be hard to argue if he were the starting ROLB. I hope this does not end up to be the case, but thus far, man, he's been good in the preseason. Brad Jones made a big sack, forced fumble to set up 3 points. Cyril Obiozor and Danny Lansanah have been impressive projects. They, too, might be trade bait. Or do we only keep 2 TE's in order to keep an extra LB?
Why don't we play Bishop with our first unit? It almost seems like we are trying to put him in position to be a stallion in order to garner interest from other teams scouts. He's been our best 2nd team player.
At FB, Kuhn looks to be the best blocker. He provided a HUGE block on Grant's TD run. Hall was overpowered when we got stopped on 4th & 1. We just spent a high draft pick on Quinn Johnson. You'd expect Quinn to make the roster. Is Hall trade bait?
At RB, who do we keep to back up Grant? All indications are that B-Jack is our go-to guy. But, how could we cut Sutton? If I were coach, I'd give him a look with the #1 unit this week to see if he can perform against the 1st teamers. Lumpkin's fumble cost him a job. The Packers love Wynn. If it were me, I'd keep Sutton & Wynn.
I've seen enough of Breno. He's not a starting RT. He almost killed Flynn, which might have been a blessing because then we would have gone after a back-up QB. Can we please sign a veteran? What are we waiting for? Here's my point: Flynn becomes the sacrificial lamb. True that he's better than Brohm right now, but really, Flynn has not been that impressive. You've invested in Brohm. He's been miserable, but give him another year. Tuck him away. Sign a veteran. See if Flynn can be traded for a 7th rounder. OK, I've beaten this topic up. I'm done with it for a while.
If Wells does not start, does he make the team? He's been far better than Preston, but does Wells have trade value? You know that TT is looking to stock up on picks over the next 10 days. Wells might be a casualty. I hope not. I like his game. And I'm not convinced that Sitton can be an everyday RG.
In the third preseason game, which is usually the best indicator as to how the Regular Season will start out, the Packers go to the desert to play the defending NFC Champs. It'll be great competition and I think the Packers will be more than up for the challenge. I expect us to impress. We are in rhythm. I predict that the Pack jumps out to an early lead. And then we get another solid performance by Sutton and barely enough back-up QB play to hold on.
Packers 27. Cards 23.
D-O-M-I-N-A-T-E.
Cheers,
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Saturday, August 22, 2009
The Drama ViQueen
Greetings, G-Force.
I was going to avoid posting a take on the Favre Fiasco. But, due to enhanced questioning, I agree that it is nearly impossible to avoid the topic. I figured that I'd wait to write until I actually saw Judas in the Putrid Purple. To me, he looks more like he's attending Mardi Gras than a football game.
For years, I have referred to Brett Favre as the "Spirit Sniper", the "Legend", the "3-time MVP", and the "Football Jesus." Today, he's Judas. A Drama ViQueen.
So, we look towards the future. With heightened anticipation. Judas will be running out of the visitors locker room at Lambeau. Favre at GB. As the enemy. My life is trying to comprehend.
My childhood idol. A living Jesus to me. He's arrived. Back from the dead. But, as the devil. Full of anger. Full of hate. Opposite polarities. It is real, yet unbelievable. Why, I ask.
I live in wondering, seeking answers to mass confusion. Resolutions are far from sane yet fully immersed in the hearts of the masses. Sadness, disgust is all around. Until it concludes on 11/01/09 as the Packers faithful shows that we are far stronger than just one man.
Favre was a legend in Green Bay. He'll continue to be when the dust settles. I don't doubt that. But, while he's in Purple, he'll be the biggest Drama ViQueen of them all.
For years, Favre had the support of the Packer football community. Throughout his drug addiction. Throughout his marriage problems. Through the breast cancer battle. Hurricane Katrina terrorizing his families homes. His Father's death. His charity. The consistent indecision as to whether he was coming back. He had our support.
This year, he betrayed us. I was fine with him as a Jet. In some way, I enjoyed it. But, as a Viqueen? This is gross. It's lame. It's filthy. He's turned his back on everyone that held him dear.
Brett, for years, you were my idol. You showed America how to prosper in tough times. In many ways, you were a role model both off and on the field. I live in a one bedroom condo. 900 square feet. With a wife and two dogs. I still found space for an autographed Favre football, an autographed helmet, an autographed jersey and an autographed picture. I won't claim to have been your biggest fan Brett, but no one cheered harder for you than I. And know, I watch in hopes of someone driving your shoulder into that nasty Metrodome turf. Brett, karma is a bitch.
In closing, Brett you traded in a legacy of playing on the most brilliant of stadiums for a sidekick role of playing in a Dome. For years, you defined what it took to play in all of football elements. Now, you'll be playing on the turf, which in many ways resembles what you've become: absolutely artificial.
But, Brett, don't worry I'll love you again. I will. Team heals. I believe that. But, until then, have I told you that you look old, gray and frail? And at some point, the old gray man just ain't what he used to be. I hope your time has passed.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
I was going to avoid posting a take on the Favre Fiasco. But, due to enhanced questioning, I agree that it is nearly impossible to avoid the topic. I figured that I'd wait to write until I actually saw Judas in the Putrid Purple. To me, he looks more like he's attending Mardi Gras than a football game.
For years, I have referred to Brett Favre as the "Spirit Sniper", the "Legend", the "3-time MVP", and the "Football Jesus." Today, he's Judas. A Drama ViQueen.
So, we look towards the future. With heightened anticipation. Judas will be running out of the visitors locker room at Lambeau. Favre at GB. As the enemy. My life is trying to comprehend.
My childhood idol. A living Jesus to me. He's arrived. Back from the dead. But, as the devil. Full of anger. Full of hate. Opposite polarities. It is real, yet unbelievable. Why, I ask.
I live in wondering, seeking answers to mass confusion. Resolutions are far from sane yet fully immersed in the hearts of the masses. Sadness, disgust is all around. Until it concludes on 11/01/09 as the Packers faithful shows that we are far stronger than just one man.
Favre was a legend in Green Bay. He'll continue to be when the dust settles. I don't doubt that. But, while he's in Purple, he'll be the biggest Drama ViQueen of them all.
For years, Favre had the support of the Packer football community. Throughout his drug addiction. Throughout his marriage problems. Through the breast cancer battle. Hurricane Katrina terrorizing his families homes. His Father's death. His charity. The consistent indecision as to whether he was coming back. He had our support.
This year, he betrayed us. I was fine with him as a Jet. In some way, I enjoyed it. But, as a Viqueen? This is gross. It's lame. It's filthy. He's turned his back on everyone that held him dear.
Brett, for years, you were my idol. You showed America how to prosper in tough times. In many ways, you were a role model both off and on the field. I live in a one bedroom condo. 900 square feet. With a wife and two dogs. I still found space for an autographed Favre football, an autographed helmet, an autographed jersey and an autographed picture. I won't claim to have been your biggest fan Brett, but no one cheered harder for you than I. And know, I watch in hopes of someone driving your shoulder into that nasty Metrodome turf. Brett, karma is a bitch.
In closing, Brett you traded in a legacy of playing on the most brilliant of stadiums for a sidekick role of playing in a Dome. For years, you defined what it took to play in all of football elements. Now, you'll be playing on the turf, which in many ways resembles what you've become: absolutely artificial.
But, Brett, don't worry I'll love you again. I will. Team heals. I believe that. But, until then, have I told you that you look old, gray and frail? And at some point, the old gray man just ain't what he used to be. I hope your time has passed.
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
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