Greetings, G-Force.
And, just like that, Aaron Rodgers has added a forever moment in the legendary rivalry between the Packers and Bears. For more than 100 years, these franchises have bashed heads. Last Sunday, we witnessed a moment that'll stand the test of time. "I still own you." Book it.
As I write, I listen to the Phish July 27, 2018 show from the Forum. I'm heading out to CA to see Phish at the Forum again this weekend. With that, I reminisce about a great night that I enjoyed at the famed indoor venue. I sip an Avery Kaiser. 'Tis the season for a Munich style big beer. This Imperial Oktoberfest clocks in at 8%. Yet, it's so smooth. A true favorite of mine this time of year.
My quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur got back to a little bit of his creative roots as the game wore on, but he started off the game looking like McCarthy's offense at the end of his time in Green Bay. Straight forward looks. Little motion. Bland. In return, his offense was stagnant. LaFleur introduced more motion and when he did, he saw better results. LaFleur's offense is based on deception. He must stick with his roots.
Aaron Rodgers wasn't in his MVP form. He missed some open throws. But, he gave us a moment of a lifetime. After rushing for a TD and getting clocked as he crossed the goal line, Rodgers showed us THE BELT. Then, we saw the classless Bears fans showing the middle finger in excessive fashion. In the end, "I still own you" will reign supreme. Forever. Damn it feels good to be a Packers fan.
Davante Adams. Straight butter. So smooth.
AJ Dillon is becoming a force in this offense.
THE BEARS STILL SUCK!
Much respect, Lucas Patrick!
Aaron Jones. Elite. He defines Packers football. What's not to like about him? A great dude.
Marcedes Lewis!
Bobby Tonyan needs to get more involved in this offense. He's a solution in the Gold Zone!
This team will improve when MVS and Dafney return from the IR. Don't overlook Dafney's value to this team. He's a tremendous blocker.
Dean Lowry is playing the best football of his career.
THE BEARS STILL SUCK!
Kenny Clark is playing at an All Pro Level.
Rasul Douglas might've been the MVP. Had Yiadom stayed in the game, the Bears might've dropped 40. When Douglas came in, there was a semblence of sanity to the defense.
Make the tackle, Jaylon Smith.
What a punt!
Whitney Mercilus! OH MERCY! But, Packers fans, check yourself. This isn't a suddenly new version of Brian Gutekunst. In 2018, he signed Breeland as an in-season player. In 2019, it was Veldheer. In 2020, it was Austin and Snacks. This is who Brian Gutekunst is.
This week - it's the WFT in Green Bay. There's absolutely no reason for the Packers to not go to 6-1.
I'm going to keep this short and sweet as I have to head out to the beach to go on vacation. Yes, I'm dreaming about my toes in the sand. A sip of tequila. A clear IPA. Fish tacos. Family and friends. A Phish show in Chula Vista and another in LA after a drive up the coast. That's where my head's at.
As for the Packers, control the line of scrimmage. Protect 12. Establish the run. Open up play action. Lazard snags a TD deep down the Field. WFT can cover GB. No chance.
And, for the Packers fans, make sure your piss is hot early in the morning. Keep it rowdy!
Packers 30
WFT 20
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Friday, October 22, 2021
Saturday, October 16, 2021
My Take -> Week 6
Greetings, G-Force.
What an awkwardly thrilling victory! The Packers showed great perseverance, stamina and mental mettle as they gutted out the nail biting victory.
As I write, I sip a Joyride Experiment IPA #20. It’s odd to me that the clear IPA is seemingly a thing of the past. They’ve become cloudy or lightly malty. I prefer my IPA’s to be crisp and clear. This one delivers. In grand fashion. An instant favorite of mine. I listen to the Bob Marley “Kaya” album. It’s a chilly evening in CO, but reggae music warms the soul.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur is a play calling wizard. But, in Cincinnati, we witnessed a conservative approach that we haven’t seen in his 2+ years with him as Coach. Inside the Red Zone, we saw very little eye candy for the defense. With that, the offense stalled.
Aaron Rodgers. After the 1st Quarter, when he was given time, he was mostly accurate. He wasn’t seeing the Field in elite fashion, but he was safe with the football. He was efficient. He put the Packers in position to win.
Aaron Jones. Superstar. All hunger.
Davante Adams. An absolute weapon on offense.
This team needs to utilize Robert Tonyan in the Gold Zone. He’s the solution.
AJ Dillon is a tremendous pass catching RB. I didn’t see that coming.
The OL wasn’t as dominant as it’d been in recent weeks, but it was another gutty + impressive performance by this makeshift group.
Dean Lowry was fantastic!
Kenny Clark is playing at an All Pro level.
Dre Campbell!! Showing himself as a steal of a claim.
Stoked for Stokes! Another sound performance for the rookie.
Catch the ball, Savage. Like Amos did.
Nice to see Preston rushing up the Field rather than dropping in coverage this year.
Liked seeing Gary lining up over Center as a stand up rusher.
Barnes and Burks both showed burst blitzing the QB.
Can’t wait to see Jaylon Smith!
Hamilton is a high effort player on the edge. He’s a step slow and he plays 1/3 yard off the ball further than I wish he did, but I like his energy.
Slaton eats up blockers.
Marcedes Lewis brings tears to the eyes. So fun!
There were many moments of poor execution on offense. Felt like ESB and Deguara were often either out muscled or mentally out of sync.
Randall Cobb picking up 1st downs!
At some point the Packers are going to have to get the ball to Amari Rodgers when he’s in motion, just to keep the defense honest. Otherwise, he’s not even worth a look.
Liked the early screen to Hill, wish he’d be the eye candy jet sweep morion man rather than Amari. Feels like he’s more of a threat in the open field.
I like the Dunbar signing. Fairly remarkable to think that Gutekunst has added Smith, Douglas and Dunbar at this point in the season.
This week - it’s our hated neighbors to the South. The suddenly upstart Bears who have found new hope behind their rookie QB. With back-to-back impressive performances, the Bears appear to be vastly improved over what many thought they’d be in 2021.
The Bears play defense. They attack the football. They win the line of scrimmage. Hicks’ injury status is huge.
The Bears have injuries at RB. Like the Packers have injuries at CB. Expect the Bears to attack the Packers down the field opposite Stokes. Stokes is brimming with confidence. Across from him, Yiadom is not trusting his instincts. The Bears will look to beat Yiadom down the field.
I'd like to think that if the Packers can protect Rodgers, the reigning MVP will have a stellar day. He'll find Adams. He'll get Tonyan involved. He'll hit Lazard on a deep crossing route. The Bears don't have the depth at CB to cover GB.
Early in the game, the Packers find success running the football. It opens up play action. The Packers strike first.
But, the Bears hang around. Fields is efficient. He intelligently picks up 1st downs with his legs. He is accurate in the pocket as the Bears OL holds up. Let's hope the Packers defense finally holds the opposition out of the end zone in the Red Zone.
Offensively, the Packers finish drives. I've been begging for Tonyan. This week - again, I'm predicting it! Tonyan scores twice.
THE BEARS STILL SUCK!
Packers 27
Bears 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
What an awkwardly thrilling victory! The Packers showed great perseverance, stamina and mental mettle as they gutted out the nail biting victory.
As I write, I sip a Joyride Experiment IPA #20. It’s odd to me that the clear IPA is seemingly a thing of the past. They’ve become cloudy or lightly malty. I prefer my IPA’s to be crisp and clear. This one delivers. In grand fashion. An instant favorite of mine. I listen to the Bob Marley “Kaya” album. It’s a chilly evening in CO, but reggae music warms the soul.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur is a play calling wizard. But, in Cincinnati, we witnessed a conservative approach that we haven’t seen in his 2+ years with him as Coach. Inside the Red Zone, we saw very little eye candy for the defense. With that, the offense stalled.
Aaron Rodgers. After the 1st Quarter, when he was given time, he was mostly accurate. He wasn’t seeing the Field in elite fashion, but he was safe with the football. He was efficient. He put the Packers in position to win.
Aaron Jones. Superstar. All hunger.
Davante Adams. An absolute weapon on offense.
This team needs to utilize Robert Tonyan in the Gold Zone. He’s the solution.
AJ Dillon is a tremendous pass catching RB. I didn’t see that coming.
The OL wasn’t as dominant as it’d been in recent weeks, but it was another gutty + impressive performance by this makeshift group.
Dean Lowry was fantastic!
Kenny Clark is playing at an All Pro level.
Dre Campbell!! Showing himself as a steal of a claim.
Stoked for Stokes! Another sound performance for the rookie.
Catch the ball, Savage. Like Amos did.
Nice to see Preston rushing up the Field rather than dropping in coverage this year.
Liked seeing Gary lining up over Center as a stand up rusher.
Barnes and Burks both showed burst blitzing the QB.
Can’t wait to see Jaylon Smith!
Hamilton is a high effort player on the edge. He’s a step slow and he plays 1/3 yard off the ball further than I wish he did, but I like his energy.
Slaton eats up blockers.
Marcedes Lewis brings tears to the eyes. So fun!
There were many moments of poor execution on offense. Felt like ESB and Deguara were often either out muscled or mentally out of sync.
Randall Cobb picking up 1st downs!
At some point the Packers are going to have to get the ball to Amari Rodgers when he’s in motion, just to keep the defense honest. Otherwise, he’s not even worth a look.
Liked the early screen to Hill, wish he’d be the eye candy jet sweep morion man rather than Amari. Feels like he’s more of a threat in the open field.
I like the Dunbar signing. Fairly remarkable to think that Gutekunst has added Smith, Douglas and Dunbar at this point in the season.
This week - it’s our hated neighbors to the South. The suddenly upstart Bears who have found new hope behind their rookie QB. With back-to-back impressive performances, the Bears appear to be vastly improved over what many thought they’d be in 2021.
The Bears play defense. They attack the football. They win the line of scrimmage. Hicks’ injury status is huge.
The Bears have injuries at RB. Like the Packers have injuries at CB. Expect the Bears to attack the Packers down the field opposite Stokes. Stokes is brimming with confidence. Across from him, Yiadom is not trusting his instincts. The Bears will look to beat Yiadom down the field.
I'd like to think that if the Packers can protect Rodgers, the reigning MVP will have a stellar day. He'll find Adams. He'll get Tonyan involved. He'll hit Lazard on a deep crossing route. The Bears don't have the depth at CB to cover GB.
Early in the game, the Packers find success running the football. It opens up play action. The Packers strike first.
But, the Bears hang around. Fields is efficient. He intelligently picks up 1st downs with his legs. He is accurate in the pocket as the Bears OL holds up. Let's hope the Packers defense finally holds the opposition out of the end zone in the Red Zone.
Offensively, the Packers finish drives. I've been begging for Tonyan. This week - again, I'm predicting it! Tonyan scores twice.
THE BEARS STILL SUCK!
Packers 27
Bears 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Friday, October 8, 2021
My Take -> Week 5
Greetings, G-Force.
That was certainly fun. Lambeau Field was rowdy. The crowd was animated. The fans had a contagious energy. It was an environment that reminded me of a mid 90’s fan base. There was electricity radiating off the Stadium walls. I really hope ghat spirit remains throughout the 2021 Season. And beyond.
As I write, I sip a Spotted Cow. Tastes like home. Deliciously refreshing. Light. Goes down smoothly. Easy drinking. I’m listening to the Phish Shoreline Night 2 show. 9–1-21. I can’t get enough of the magic that happened over these two nights.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur. Animated. Love his sideline pizzazz. He’s a sideline spark plug.
Aaron Rodgers. He’s gaining confidence in his OL. He’s seeing the Field better. He wasn’t as accurate as we are accustomed to seeing him, but he’s leading the huddle + line of scrimmage in MVP. If Rodgers can find his accuracy, we might be witness to another riveting season on the offensive side of the ball.
Defensively, this team cannot afford any more injuries. The Za’Darius and Jaire injuries feel like they’re absolutely devastating blows to what we all hoped this season would become. I’m still holding out hope for both to come back. But, it doesn’t feel good.
AJ Dillon has been really impressive as a pass catcher. I also dig the way he lowers his body in short yardage situations. He finds the marker.
Aaron Jones as a pass catcher. He’s lethal. It gets him in space and allows him to use his elite vision.
Randall Cobb. Suddenly, the trade for Cobb looks like a brilliant decision. He was top flight on 3rd down. A 1st down magnet with a heart of gold desire to find the end zone.
Davante Adams looking like Michael Jackson on a dance floor with the ball in his hands.
Call them the Bully Boys! Runyan, Myers and Wild Man 70! They dominated the line of scrimmage in punishing fashion.
Thought Yosh played another dynamite game. He’s come of age.
Tonyan was close to a breakout game, but 12 missed his target on a number of big play opportunities.
Lazard’s physical play will never get old. He seeks contact.
Billy Turner is quietly having a monster season.
Kenny Clark was a mammoth man in the middle of the defense.
Stoked for Stokes! He plays with intelligence beyond his years!
Campbell continues to impress! He gets sideline to sideline.
Keke making a play! Shoutout!
Gary doesn’t load up the box score but he disrupts on more plays than he doesn’t. He plays with excellent energy.
Thought Preston played with great fight.
Jaylon Smith!!!! Excitement level on infinity. I legitimately thought that he had Hall of Fame traits in college. He was that dominant. He was as elite of a LB as I’ve seen in recent memory at the college level. He hasn’t been the same in the NFL, but there’s no question in my mind that he will bring Leadership and Intensity to the locker room. He will bring speed to the defense. He will want to hit people. I couldn’t be more excited about him being in Green Bay. A change of scenery might be really good for him. If he finds his stride, the Packers might’ve added an elite talent to the center of this defense.
Don’t overlook the Rasul Douglas signing. Here’s what I wrote on him before the 2017 NFL Draft and I still hold these feelings today: 16.) Rasul Douglas, WV. Round 4. I had him as a 2nd or 3rd round pick until he ran his 40. Thought he played faster than he timed, but we've learned that a 4.6 40 simply doesn't cut it on the perimeter in the NFL. So, Douglas probably translates to a Nickel CB. He played very well on the outside at the college level. Showed make-up speed on crossing routes. He was a ball magnet. Love his length and his ability to jam at the line.
This week - it’s the Bengals. In Cincy. The Bengals at 3-1 are one of the most impressive stories over the first 1/4 of the NFL Season.
For the Packers, they begin a tough 5 game stretch in which 4 of them will be on the road. If the Packers can somehow manage to go 3-2 over this stretch, they’ll be in prime position to make a run at a 3rd consecutive NFC NORTH crown.
Joe Burrow is whipping the ball all over the Field. He’s a commander in the huddle. He’s inspired excitement inside the organization. He has a ton of weapons as well. The Packers might catch a break if Mixon doesn’t play. Perine is extremely limited compared to Mixon. At WR; Boyd, Higgins and Chase, are stars on the rise. Speed and athleticism that destroys secondaries. They can get over the top and they’ll beat you on underneath routes.
This appears to be a really physical Bengals team. They may lack star power on defense but they play with speed, confusion and power. They attack the edges of the line of scrimmage. Trey Henricksen has developed into a dynamite force. Sam Hubbard plays with maximum effort. Ogunjobi and Reader play with a good quickness + power + effort combination. The Bengals front will challenge the Packers.
At LB, Pratt and Wilson are two ascending players. The Bengals have also revamped their secondary. Jessie Bates is All Pro material. He leaves his mark each and every week. Vonn Bell is a steadying force at Safety. Waynes, Awuzie and Apple are veteran CB’s, but they’re the wink link. If the Packers can give Rodgers time, he will have open receivers.
The Packers are going to have to be able to run the ball behind the heart of the young OL. Runyan, Myers and Wild Man 70 must be up for the task again. The run game will slow down the pressing Bengals defensive front.
I’d expect to see more of Jones and Dillon on the field at the same time. It gives LaFleur flexibility and another option to find ways to create chunk plays with MVS on IR. The Packers need down field options. Jones can be one when lined up against a LB.
I’m expecting a high scoring affair. Burrow will be in attack mode. He will sense blood in the water on this Packers defense. He will target Kevin King and Yiadom. He will find big plays down the field.
The Packers will seek efficiency. Extended drives. Converting on 3rd and short. Tonyan in the Gold Zone. Tonyan is so close to a breakout game.
The Bengals are going to have to slide coverages to Davante. They simply do not have the talent on the outside to cover him. If Bates can be taken away from the middle of the field, this is a major win for the Packers.
Burrow makes plays, but he’ll also occasionally miss his spot. I’m waiting for Savage to make a play. It happens late in this one to preserve victory.
Packers 31
Bengals 27
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
That was certainly fun. Lambeau Field was rowdy. The crowd was animated. The fans had a contagious energy. It was an environment that reminded me of a mid 90’s fan base. There was electricity radiating off the Stadium walls. I really hope ghat spirit remains throughout the 2021 Season. And beyond.
As I write, I sip a Spotted Cow. Tastes like home. Deliciously refreshing. Light. Goes down smoothly. Easy drinking. I’m listening to the Phish Shoreline Night 2 show. 9–1-21. I can’t get enough of the magic that happened over these two nights.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur. Animated. Love his sideline pizzazz. He’s a sideline spark plug.
Aaron Rodgers. He’s gaining confidence in his OL. He’s seeing the Field better. He wasn’t as accurate as we are accustomed to seeing him, but he’s leading the huddle + line of scrimmage in MVP. If Rodgers can find his accuracy, we might be witness to another riveting season on the offensive side of the ball.
Defensively, this team cannot afford any more injuries. The Za’Darius and Jaire injuries feel like they’re absolutely devastating blows to what we all hoped this season would become. I’m still holding out hope for both to come back. But, it doesn’t feel good.
AJ Dillon has been really impressive as a pass catcher. I also dig the way he lowers his body in short yardage situations. He finds the marker.
Aaron Jones as a pass catcher. He’s lethal. It gets him in space and allows him to use his elite vision.
Randall Cobb. Suddenly, the trade for Cobb looks like a brilliant decision. He was top flight on 3rd down. A 1st down magnet with a heart of gold desire to find the end zone.
Davante Adams looking like Michael Jackson on a dance floor with the ball in his hands.
Call them the Bully Boys! Runyan, Myers and Wild Man 70! They dominated the line of scrimmage in punishing fashion.
Thought Yosh played another dynamite game. He’s come of age.
Tonyan was close to a breakout game, but 12 missed his target on a number of big play opportunities.
Lazard’s physical play will never get old. He seeks contact.
Billy Turner is quietly having a monster season.
Kenny Clark was a mammoth man in the middle of the defense.
Stoked for Stokes! He plays with intelligence beyond his years!
Campbell continues to impress! He gets sideline to sideline.
Keke making a play! Shoutout!
Gary doesn’t load up the box score but he disrupts on more plays than he doesn’t. He plays with excellent energy.
Thought Preston played with great fight.
Jaylon Smith!!!! Excitement level on infinity. I legitimately thought that he had Hall of Fame traits in college. He was that dominant. He was as elite of a LB as I’ve seen in recent memory at the college level. He hasn’t been the same in the NFL, but there’s no question in my mind that he will bring Leadership and Intensity to the locker room. He will bring speed to the defense. He will want to hit people. I couldn’t be more excited about him being in Green Bay. A change of scenery might be really good for him. If he finds his stride, the Packers might’ve added an elite talent to the center of this defense.
Don’t overlook the Rasul Douglas signing. Here’s what I wrote on him before the 2017 NFL Draft and I still hold these feelings today: 16.) Rasul Douglas, WV. Round 4. I had him as a 2nd or 3rd round pick until he ran his 40. Thought he played faster than he timed, but we've learned that a 4.6 40 simply doesn't cut it on the perimeter in the NFL. So, Douglas probably translates to a Nickel CB. He played very well on the outside at the college level. Showed make-up speed on crossing routes. He was a ball magnet. Love his length and his ability to jam at the line.
This week - it’s the Bengals. In Cincy. The Bengals at 3-1 are one of the most impressive stories over the first 1/4 of the NFL Season.
For the Packers, they begin a tough 5 game stretch in which 4 of them will be on the road. If the Packers can somehow manage to go 3-2 over this stretch, they’ll be in prime position to make a run at a 3rd consecutive NFC NORTH crown.
Joe Burrow is whipping the ball all over the Field. He’s a commander in the huddle. He’s inspired excitement inside the organization. He has a ton of weapons as well. The Packers might catch a break if Mixon doesn’t play. Perine is extremely limited compared to Mixon. At WR; Boyd, Higgins and Chase, are stars on the rise. Speed and athleticism that destroys secondaries. They can get over the top and they’ll beat you on underneath routes.
This appears to be a really physical Bengals team. They may lack star power on defense but they play with speed, confusion and power. They attack the edges of the line of scrimmage. Trey Henricksen has developed into a dynamite force. Sam Hubbard plays with maximum effort. Ogunjobi and Reader play with a good quickness + power + effort combination. The Bengals front will challenge the Packers.
At LB, Pratt and Wilson are two ascending players. The Bengals have also revamped their secondary. Jessie Bates is All Pro material. He leaves his mark each and every week. Vonn Bell is a steadying force at Safety. Waynes, Awuzie and Apple are veteran CB’s, but they’re the wink link. If the Packers can give Rodgers time, he will have open receivers.
The Packers are going to have to be able to run the ball behind the heart of the young OL. Runyan, Myers and Wild Man 70 must be up for the task again. The run game will slow down the pressing Bengals defensive front.
I’d expect to see more of Jones and Dillon on the field at the same time. It gives LaFleur flexibility and another option to find ways to create chunk plays with MVS on IR. The Packers need down field options. Jones can be one when lined up against a LB.
I’m expecting a high scoring affair. Burrow will be in attack mode. He will sense blood in the water on this Packers defense. He will target Kevin King and Yiadom. He will find big plays down the field.
The Packers will seek efficiency. Extended drives. Converting on 3rd and short. Tonyan in the Gold Zone. Tonyan is so close to a breakout game.
The Bengals are going to have to slide coverages to Davante. They simply do not have the talent on the outside to cover him. If Bates can be taken away from the middle of the field, this is a major win for the Packers.
Burrow makes plays, but he’ll also occasionally miss his spot. I’m waiting for Savage to make a play. It happens late in this one to preserve victory.
Packers 31
Bengals 27
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
talkins-Mac.blogspot.com
Friday, October 1, 2021
My Take -> Week 4
Greetings, G-Force.
After a highly tumultuous offseason, my Packers spirit needed a pick me up. It needed a moment of connectivity. The Sunday Night thriller has me feeling a sense of exhale.
As I write, I sip a 2014 Crooked Stave Origins. Burgundy Sour. Aged in Oak Barrels. A victory beer. I listen to the Phish Shoreline 9-1-21 show. I cannot get enough of that 2-night run, it was me mentally “Screaming Through Space!”
Here are my quick vibes from the last t week:
Matt LaFleur. His play design on the 2nd drive of the game was elite play calling. Schematic brilliance. LaFleur is always a competitor, but his demonstrative sideline presence showed how much he knew his team needed this victory.
Aaron Rodgers. That was the #12 that we saw last year. Calm. Cerebral. Seeing the Field. Patient in the pocket. An MVP performance.
Mason Crosby. $$$.
It didn’t work, but I loved LaFleur’s instincts to go for it up 10 on 4th and 1. He was craving a 3-score lead.
Allen Lazard volunteering to cover kickoffs after watching the kickoff return near the end of the first half is everything that’s is right about this team.
Stoked for Stokes! I thought the rookie played a great game. Two highly questionable Pass Interference calls against him didn’t detract from his performance. Stokes shows up in a Grateful Dead shirt in SF? Kid gets it.
Thought Campbell played really well. He attacked the SF stretch runs and never allowed them to take it upfield. He was the aggressor.
Gutekunst might’ve struck gold with the interior combination of Runyan, Myers and Wild Man 70. This might give the team the option of moving Jenkins to RT to solidify the OL for the future.
Yosh Nijman. I’ll never forget his performance. Legitimately unbelievable. He dominated Nick Bosa after the 1st series of the game.
Solid performance from the Defensive front. Clark was a beast. Lowry had a nice push. Slaton and Lancaster held the point. Gary and Preston were more disruptive than the box score suggests.
I’m starting to worry about Keke and his ability to play in the NFL. Had high hopes for him.
Don’t overlook Dominique Dafney being put on IR. Dafney has developed into a stellar blocker. He had clearly beaten out Jace Sternberger. He was a valuable versatile role player for this offense. He’s also a worthwhile special teams player. Hope he’s healthy soon!
This week - it’s the Steelers coming to Lambeau. It’ll be the first game that I will have attended in 2 years. Over the last 12 years, these two teams have had 4 epic battles. In 09, Big Ben won it at the end. In February of 11, XLV was given to us to enjoy forever. In 13, the Flynn threw incomplete on the last play of the game in the end zone and the Packers lost by 7. In 2017, the Steelers made a last second FG to claim victory. This year, it’s an early season this feels somewhat like as much of a must-win for both franchises as a 1st weekend of October could be. The Steelers are 1-2, with their backs against the wall. The Packers are 2-1, but it feels like they will need to win their home games in what appears to be an extremely difficult schedule.
The Steelers are a better team than their record suggests. They’re physical on defense. They have players who will force turnovers. They’ll win the line of scrimmage. On offense, they have playmakers all over the field. The Packers are going to have to find a way to get to Big Ben of this will be a rough day at Lambeau Field.
If the Steelers are getting Watt back from injury this week, the Packers are going to have to give Yosh help. Watt can destroy an offense, by himself. It'll be important for the Packers to keep him off balance. While Yosh was unbelievable last week, I find it tough to believe that he'll be able to mirror that performance in back-to-back weeks against elite EDGE rushers.
The Steelers have a dynamite starting combination of CB’s. They have no depth. Look for LaFleur and Rodgers to test that depth. With MVS being unlikely to play, the Packers will need someone else to be a presence over the top of the defense. I’ve had a hunch that ESB will get his opportunities to play the MVS role. He makes a play down the Field.
I’ve been waiting for Tonyan to have a big game. It happens this weekend.
Stoked for Stokes gets his first career interception.
Campbell and Kenny Clark are big in the run game.
Rodgers tosses 3 TD’s.
Once again, this game comes down the end. The defense gets the stop as Gary grabs a big sack.
Packers 27
Steelers 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
After a highly tumultuous offseason, my Packers spirit needed a pick me up. It needed a moment of connectivity. The Sunday Night thriller has me feeling a sense of exhale.
As I write, I sip a 2014 Crooked Stave Origins. Burgundy Sour. Aged in Oak Barrels. A victory beer. I listen to the Phish Shoreline 9-1-21 show. I cannot get enough of that 2-night run, it was me mentally “Screaming Through Space!”
Here are my quick vibes from the last t week:
Matt LaFleur. His play design on the 2nd drive of the game was elite play calling. Schematic brilliance. LaFleur is always a competitor, but his demonstrative sideline presence showed how much he knew his team needed this victory.
Aaron Rodgers. That was the #12 that we saw last year. Calm. Cerebral. Seeing the Field. Patient in the pocket. An MVP performance.
Mason Crosby. $$$.
It didn’t work, but I loved LaFleur’s instincts to go for it up 10 on 4th and 1. He was craving a 3-score lead.
Allen Lazard volunteering to cover kickoffs after watching the kickoff return near the end of the first half is everything that’s is right about this team.
Stoked for Stokes! I thought the rookie played a great game. Two highly questionable Pass Interference calls against him didn’t detract from his performance. Stokes shows up in a Grateful Dead shirt in SF? Kid gets it.
Thought Campbell played really well. He attacked the SF stretch runs and never allowed them to take it upfield. He was the aggressor.
Gutekunst might’ve struck gold with the interior combination of Runyan, Myers and Wild Man 70. This might give the team the option of moving Jenkins to RT to solidify the OL for the future.
Yosh Nijman. I’ll never forget his performance. Legitimately unbelievable. He dominated Nick Bosa after the 1st series of the game.
Solid performance from the Defensive front. Clark was a beast. Lowry had a nice push. Slaton and Lancaster held the point. Gary and Preston were more disruptive than the box score suggests.
I’m starting to worry about Keke and his ability to play in the NFL. Had high hopes for him.
Don’t overlook Dominique Dafney being put on IR. Dafney has developed into a stellar blocker. He had clearly beaten out Jace Sternberger. He was a valuable versatile role player for this offense. He’s also a worthwhile special teams player. Hope he’s healthy soon!
This week - it’s the Steelers coming to Lambeau. It’ll be the first game that I will have attended in 2 years. Over the last 12 years, these two teams have had 4 epic battles. In 09, Big Ben won it at the end. In February of 11, XLV was given to us to enjoy forever. In 13, the Flynn threw incomplete on the last play of the game in the end zone and the Packers lost by 7. In 2017, the Steelers made a last second FG to claim victory. This year, it’s an early season this feels somewhat like as much of a must-win for both franchises as a 1st weekend of October could be. The Steelers are 1-2, with their backs against the wall. The Packers are 2-1, but it feels like they will need to win their home games in what appears to be an extremely difficult schedule.
The Steelers are a better team than their record suggests. They’re physical on defense. They have players who will force turnovers. They’ll win the line of scrimmage. On offense, they have playmakers all over the field. The Packers are going to have to find a way to get to Big Ben of this will be a rough day at Lambeau Field.
If the Steelers are getting Watt back from injury this week, the Packers are going to have to give Yosh help. Watt can destroy an offense, by himself. It'll be important for the Packers to keep him off balance. While Yosh was unbelievable last week, I find it tough to believe that he'll be able to mirror that performance in back-to-back weeks against elite EDGE rushers.
The Steelers have a dynamite starting combination of CB’s. They have no depth. Look for LaFleur and Rodgers to test that depth. With MVS being unlikely to play, the Packers will need someone else to be a presence over the top of the defense. I’ve had a hunch that ESB will get his opportunities to play the MVS role. He makes a play down the Field.
I’ve been waiting for Tonyan to have a big game. It happens this weekend.
Stoked for Stokes gets his first career interception.
Campbell and Kenny Clark are big in the run game.
Rodgers tosses 3 TD’s.
Once again, this game comes down the end. The defense gets the stop as Gary grabs a big sack.
Packers 27
Steelers 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Friday, September 24, 2021
My Take -> Week 3
Greetings, G-Force.
A win is a win in this League. The Packers were fortunate that they played the hapless Lions, so they could ensure a victory in front of the hometown fans. At Lambeau Field. On Monday Night.
As I write, I sip an Epic Brewing Big Bad Baptist. The evenings have cooled off in Colorado and the Stouts are tasting smooth. When I’m as worried about the Packers as I am right now, I like my beers high in ABV. This one clocks in near 12%. I listen to the Beatles “Let It Be” album.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur cannot be happy with the start to the season. The team looks lethargic. It’s a long season and I have hope that the teams physicality will mightily improve with the return of Za’Darius and Bakhtiari. But, right now, this team looks more like a team that’ll finish close to .500 than a team that’ll return to the NFC Championship Game.
Aaron Rodgers. Love the dart to Tonyan. The bomb to Davante was unbelievable. But, he doesn’t look comfortable to me. It looks as though he’s still finding his footing. He’s still learning how much he can trust his OL. Rather than seeing the Field post snap, his decision making seems predetermined by his pre-snap read of the defense.
Thank the Good Lord for Jared Goff. Without Goff, we might be talking about an early change being needed at Defensive Coordinator for the Packers: instead, the defensive flaws were masked by Goff’s ineptitude. Goff didn’t see the Field on 4th and 1. Goff mishandled a snap that led to a fumble. Goff gifted the Packers a sack. Goff missed an open receiver to essentially hand an interception to Campbell. That was the difference in the game.
Aaron Jones is an absolute superstar of a Football player. He’s seemingly a better dude than he is a Football player as well. That’s a remarkable feat.
Davante Adams. These are days to remember.
Rodgers to Cobb to pick up a 1st down on a free play. Just like old times.
Love the weak side screen call to Tonyan. Tonyan is earning himself a monster contract.
Tonyan, Adams, Jones and Rodgers having big statistical games on a night in which TT is honored. So many hearts.
Jenkins is an elite football player.
Stoked for Stokes is the message. Kid plays with speed. Enjoy watching his youthful spirit. Kid has passion. Hoping his energy can bring a spark to the defense.
Kingsley Keke. ¿Donde esta? This team needs Keke to be a rising star.
Campbell has been a bright spot at ILB through two weeks. He’s active. Like the dreads flowing on this defense!
Kevin King moving to the slot. In an attempt to save his career.
This defense has looked as bad as any since 2016. The best player in the secondary that year? Ladarius Gunter. He wouldn’t even make this team.
Brian Gutekunst has assembled a quality roster. Have to hold out hope that this all comes together.
This week - it’s the 49ers in SF. I fear the thought of thinking about what Kyle Shanahan will do to our new Defensive Coordinator. I’m scared of what the SF DL will do to the young Packers OL, especially if Jenkins is unable to play.
The 49ers are banged up at RB. They’re hunting for people off of the streets to potentially suit up for the game this Sunday Night. Still, somehow, I envision SF being able to run the ball. It feels like Shanahan will draw up successful play action to Deebo, Aiyuk and Kittle. He’ll find ways to get the ball to Juszczyk. He will confuse the Packers the Packers with excessive motion. He’ll creatively get the ball to Aiyuk and Deebo in space.
The Packers will have to pound the ball at the SF front. I’m expecting a heavy dose of AJ Dillon in an effort to match the strength of the SF front. I expect to see Dillon and Jones on the field at the same time. LaFleur must come with imagination. Jones acts as the jet sweep option to open up the LB’s. Dillon pounds away between the tackles.
And, then, the only way I envision the Packers winning this game is if they connect on a couple of deep shots to MVS. I think it happens. Rodgers clearly felt awful about missing MVS on a couple of open passes on Monday Night. This week, he connects. MVS finishes with 2TD’s and over 100 yards.
Somehow, the Packers survive in a game that will define the current of the Packers union. Are they strong enough? Are they prepared enough? Are they able to compete with a talented roster on the road? Many questions will be answered this week. It’s a long season, but it feels like this week might foreshadow what the 2021 season might bring. I’m doing my best to keep the faith.
Packers 24 SF 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
A win is a win in this League. The Packers were fortunate that they played the hapless Lions, so they could ensure a victory in front of the hometown fans. At Lambeau Field. On Monday Night.
As I write, I sip an Epic Brewing Big Bad Baptist. The evenings have cooled off in Colorado and the Stouts are tasting smooth. When I’m as worried about the Packers as I am right now, I like my beers high in ABV. This one clocks in near 12%. I listen to the Beatles “Let It Be” album.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
Matt LaFleur cannot be happy with the start to the season. The team looks lethargic. It’s a long season and I have hope that the teams physicality will mightily improve with the return of Za’Darius and Bakhtiari. But, right now, this team looks more like a team that’ll finish close to .500 than a team that’ll return to the NFC Championship Game.
Aaron Rodgers. Love the dart to Tonyan. The bomb to Davante was unbelievable. But, he doesn’t look comfortable to me. It looks as though he’s still finding his footing. He’s still learning how much he can trust his OL. Rather than seeing the Field post snap, his decision making seems predetermined by his pre-snap read of the defense.
Thank the Good Lord for Jared Goff. Without Goff, we might be talking about an early change being needed at Defensive Coordinator for the Packers: instead, the defensive flaws were masked by Goff’s ineptitude. Goff didn’t see the Field on 4th and 1. Goff mishandled a snap that led to a fumble. Goff gifted the Packers a sack. Goff missed an open receiver to essentially hand an interception to Campbell. That was the difference in the game.
Aaron Jones is an absolute superstar of a Football player. He’s seemingly a better dude than he is a Football player as well. That’s a remarkable feat.
Davante Adams. These are days to remember.
Rodgers to Cobb to pick up a 1st down on a free play. Just like old times.
Love the weak side screen call to Tonyan. Tonyan is earning himself a monster contract.
Tonyan, Adams, Jones and Rodgers having big statistical games on a night in which TT is honored. So many hearts.
Jenkins is an elite football player.
Stoked for Stokes is the message. Kid plays with speed. Enjoy watching his youthful spirit. Kid has passion. Hoping his energy can bring a spark to the defense.
Kingsley Keke. ¿Donde esta? This team needs Keke to be a rising star.
Campbell has been a bright spot at ILB through two weeks. He’s active. Like the dreads flowing on this defense!
Kevin King moving to the slot. In an attempt to save his career.
This defense has looked as bad as any since 2016. The best player in the secondary that year? Ladarius Gunter. He wouldn’t even make this team.
Brian Gutekunst has assembled a quality roster. Have to hold out hope that this all comes together.
This week - it’s the 49ers in SF. I fear the thought of thinking about what Kyle Shanahan will do to our new Defensive Coordinator. I’m scared of what the SF DL will do to the young Packers OL, especially if Jenkins is unable to play.
The 49ers are banged up at RB. They’re hunting for people off of the streets to potentially suit up for the game this Sunday Night. Still, somehow, I envision SF being able to run the ball. It feels like Shanahan will draw up successful play action to Deebo, Aiyuk and Kittle. He’ll find ways to get the ball to Juszczyk. He will confuse the Packers the Packers with excessive motion. He’ll creatively get the ball to Aiyuk and Deebo in space.
The Packers will have to pound the ball at the SF front. I’m expecting a heavy dose of AJ Dillon in an effort to match the strength of the SF front. I expect to see Dillon and Jones on the field at the same time. LaFleur must come with imagination. Jones acts as the jet sweep option to open up the LB’s. Dillon pounds away between the tackles.
And, then, the only way I envision the Packers winning this game is if they connect on a couple of deep shots to MVS. I think it happens. Rodgers clearly felt awful about missing MVS on a couple of open passes on Monday Night. This week, he connects. MVS finishes with 2TD’s and over 100 yards.
Somehow, the Packers survive in a game that will define the current of the Packers union. Are they strong enough? Are they prepared enough? Are they able to compete with a talented roster on the road? Many questions will be answered this week. It’s a long season, but it feels like this week might foreshadow what the 2021 season might bring. I’m doing my best to keep the faith.
Packers 24 SF 23
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Monday, September 20, 2021
My Take -> Week 2
Greetings, G-Force.
There’s a fine line between arrogance and confidence. The Packers crossed that line and because of it, they’re 0-1. In embarrassing fashion.
As I write, I sip a Crooked Stave Juicy West Coast IPA. 6.2%. A good blend of two wildly different styles of IPA. Cloudy. Hoppy. I listen to the Saturday Night Phish show at Dicks Sporting Goods Park in Denver. The Packers must “Cool It Down” with their egos and focus on the game at hand.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
This was the worst version of a Matt LaFleur team that we’ve ever seen. Zero spark plug over the course of a 4 Quarter game. Things can only improve.
The NFC NORTH might be really bad. I believe that MN will be really good. But, I would like to think the Packers can go 5-1 in the division. Even with a subpar defense. This is not the time to panic. But, there were so many concerning moments.
The two things that changed the most in the offseason were the Defensive Coordinator and the OL. Both were comically bad.
Expected the new DC to be assertive. Couldn’t have been more bland. Not the 1st impressive that I anticipated we’d see. They played on their heels. Looked as poor as any team that I watched over the weekend. Interested to see how they adjust.
Aaron Rodgers showed terrific leadership skills in the press conference when asked about the OL and his protection. The interior of the OL did not play well. There was too much push up the middle. There was also few holes in the running game. Rodgers was complimentary in a public forum. In the locker room, I can guarantee that those conversations were different.
It was a lifeless 1st half. Completely unprepared. Out-coached. Saints were the more physical team as well. Couldn’t have been more disappointed. I was hoping for a TD drive to start the 3rd to ignite the season’s fire. They were in position until the Rodgers interception, which proved to be the dagger.
It appeared to me that Rodgers didn’t trust his OL. He reverted to old happy feet habits instead of standing tall in the pocket and surveying the field as he did last year.
This was an embarrassingly poor performance by the defense. There have been ugly games in recent memory. This one might have been as bad as any that we’ve witnessed against a team that appears to be lacking immense star power.
Za’Darius to the IR is not what the Dr ordered for a recovery for this defense.
Kevin King needs to return to his 2019 form or he will find himself on the bench.
I’m baffled by how confused the defense looked. They were so uncertain as to their responsibilities.
I’m not going to dwell on the defeat too much and since there were next to zero positives to reflect upon, I’m going to look onward.
Don't overlook the Chandon Sullivan contract restructuring. Gutekunst is calculated with his moves. He wanted money to be available for this year. My hunch is that he didn't want the money for future contract extensions. My gut says that he wanted the money to make a power move in-season this year. I wouldn't be surprised if Gutekunst trades for someone who is in the last year of his contract along the DL. This is the proverbial last dance for this group of teammates and Gutekunst knows that his locker room is in win-now mode.
This week - it’s the home opener. On Monday Night Football. A divisional game against the Lions. The Packers will be ready.
The Lions are in complete rebuild mode. They have a new GM. They have a new Had Coach. They have a new roster. On paper, they look like a team that is destined for 3-14. But, they’ll undoubtedly play with fire and intensity on every snap.
I’m not a Jared Goff fan. If the Packers can stop the run, Goff will make mistakes. Expect to see Swift and Williams attacking the heart of the Packers defense. Look for Hockenson to be the recipient of many targets off of play action.
Defensively, the Lions have done a decent job of adding a good mix of veteran FA’s and draft picks over the last two years. Brockers and Flowers will test the Packers on the EDGE. Williams has given the Packers trouble in the past. McNeil is an intriguing rookie. Anzalone, Okwara and Collins are versatile LB’s. In the secondary, Detroit shouldn’t have the talent to cover the Packers WR’s. Okudah’s injury was gutting for them.
The Lions will likely take on a similar strategy that New Orleans took. They’ll attempt to eat clock. They will try to control the line of scrimmage. They’ll try to pound the football, convert 3rd down and then take a shot down the field against Kevin King.
Expect Randall Cobb to touch the ball early in the game.
I anticipate that the Lions will drop two deep safeties. They’ll try to keep everything underneath. The Packers must be able to run the ball. And, Rodgers must stay patient with taking what the defense gives him. Tonyan should get 5-7 targets. Just move sticks.
If I had full confidence that the defense would not be a comedy of errors, I’d have every belief that the Packers would win handily. Unfortunately, the defense remains a work in progress. Therefore, it’s a nail biter.
Packers 31
Lions 27
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-mac.blogspot.com
There’s a fine line between arrogance and confidence. The Packers crossed that line and because of it, they’re 0-1. In embarrassing fashion.
As I write, I sip a Crooked Stave Juicy West Coast IPA. 6.2%. A good blend of two wildly different styles of IPA. Cloudy. Hoppy. I listen to the Saturday Night Phish show at Dicks Sporting Goods Park in Denver. The Packers must “Cool It Down” with their egos and focus on the game at hand.
Here are my quick vibes from the last week:
This was the worst version of a Matt LaFleur team that we’ve ever seen. Zero spark plug over the course of a 4 Quarter game. Things can only improve.
The NFC NORTH might be really bad. I believe that MN will be really good. But, I would like to think the Packers can go 5-1 in the division. Even with a subpar defense. This is not the time to panic. But, there were so many concerning moments.
The two things that changed the most in the offseason were the Defensive Coordinator and the OL. Both were comically bad.
Expected the new DC to be assertive. Couldn’t have been more bland. Not the 1st impressive that I anticipated we’d see. They played on their heels. Looked as poor as any team that I watched over the weekend. Interested to see how they adjust.
Aaron Rodgers showed terrific leadership skills in the press conference when asked about the OL and his protection. The interior of the OL did not play well. There was too much push up the middle. There was also few holes in the running game. Rodgers was complimentary in a public forum. In the locker room, I can guarantee that those conversations were different.
It was a lifeless 1st half. Completely unprepared. Out-coached. Saints were the more physical team as well. Couldn’t have been more disappointed. I was hoping for a TD drive to start the 3rd to ignite the season’s fire. They were in position until the Rodgers interception, which proved to be the dagger.
It appeared to me that Rodgers didn’t trust his OL. He reverted to old happy feet habits instead of standing tall in the pocket and surveying the field as he did last year.
This was an embarrassingly poor performance by the defense. There have been ugly games in recent memory. This one might have been as bad as any that we’ve witnessed against a team that appears to be lacking immense star power.
Za’Darius to the IR is not what the Dr ordered for a recovery for this defense.
Kevin King needs to return to his 2019 form or he will find himself on the bench.
I’m baffled by how confused the defense looked. They were so uncertain as to their responsibilities.
I’m not going to dwell on the defeat too much and since there were next to zero positives to reflect upon, I’m going to look onward.
Don't overlook the Chandon Sullivan contract restructuring. Gutekunst is calculated with his moves. He wanted money to be available for this year. My hunch is that he didn't want the money for future contract extensions. My gut says that he wanted the money to make a power move in-season this year. I wouldn't be surprised if Gutekunst trades for someone who is in the last year of his contract along the DL. This is the proverbial last dance for this group of teammates and Gutekunst knows that his locker room is in win-now mode.
This week - it’s the home opener. On Monday Night Football. A divisional game against the Lions. The Packers will be ready.
The Lions are in complete rebuild mode. They have a new GM. They have a new Had Coach. They have a new roster. On paper, they look like a team that is destined for 3-14. But, they’ll undoubtedly play with fire and intensity on every snap.
I’m not a Jared Goff fan. If the Packers can stop the run, Goff will make mistakes. Expect to see Swift and Williams attacking the heart of the Packers defense. Look for Hockenson to be the recipient of many targets off of play action.
Defensively, the Lions have done a decent job of adding a good mix of veteran FA’s and draft picks over the last two years. Brockers and Flowers will test the Packers on the EDGE. Williams has given the Packers trouble in the past. McNeil is an intriguing rookie. Anzalone, Okwara and Collins are versatile LB’s. In the secondary, Detroit shouldn’t have the talent to cover the Packers WR’s. Okudah’s injury was gutting for them.
The Lions will likely take on a similar strategy that New Orleans took. They’ll attempt to eat clock. They will try to control the line of scrimmage. They’ll try to pound the football, convert 3rd down and then take a shot down the field against Kevin King.
Expect Randall Cobb to touch the ball early in the game.
I anticipate that the Lions will drop two deep safeties. They’ll try to keep everything underneath. The Packers must be able to run the ball. And, Rodgers must stay patient with taking what the defense gives him. Tonyan should get 5-7 targets. Just move sticks.
If I had full confidence that the defense would not be a comedy of errors, I’d have every belief that the Packers would win handily. Unfortunately, the defense remains a work in progress. Therefore, it’s a nail biter.
Packers 31
Lions 27
Go Pack Go!
Talkin’ S-Mac.
Talkins-mac.blogspot.com
Sunday, September 12, 2021
My Take -> Week 1
Greetings, G-Force.
The urgency is at peak levels. It's now or possibly never for the Packers and Aaron Rodgers to grab a 2nd Super Bowl ring together. I just hope this team remains laid back. I hope they don't press. I hope they continue to live in the moment. I hope they continue to enjoy the present. I hope they continue to play with a care free desire to win.
As I write, I listen to the Phish 9-1-21 show from Shoreline. I was fortunate to attend this concert at the famed CA venue. It's a day I'll remember forever. I sip a Modern Times Dungeon Map West Coast IPA. It's a little less clear than I prefer, but it's a super smooth tasty hop. I find it to be really refreshing.
The Packers take on the Saints in Jacksonville as they embark on their 2021 journey. For the 2nd year in a row, the Packers catch a break while playing the Saints. Last year, they were fortunate to not have fans in the Dome. This year, they are playing in Jacksonville. And, while the humidity will be a major factor, it'll be a significant benefit to not be trapped indoors.
The Saints will have a new look. It concerns me that there will be very little tape on what to expect from Sean Paytond this weekend. Jameis Winston has always been a good playmaker. He just makes too many mistakes. The Saints will play through Alvin Kamara. If the Packers struggle to tackle Kamara like they have in the past, the defense will be in for a long afternoon. I'd like to think that the Packers match up well with Marquez Callaway, Lil'Jordan Humphrey and Deonte Harris as receivers. The Saints OL will bephysical, but I anticipate that the Packers will be able to get a push.
Defensively, the Saints are physical. Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, Malcolm Jenkins and Marshon Lattimore are elite. Marcus Davenport has great length as a pass rusher. He'll be disruptive. Kwon Alexander is an active player. The Saints defense will fly around the field. But, if the young Packers OL can provide protection, I really believe the Packers will put up big points.
My biggest fear for the Packers this weekend is their ability to tackle Deonte Harris as a returner. The Packers cannot let Harris beat them. He's the ultimate threat as a return man. If special teams don't cost the Packers the game, I like their chances.
I believe Rodgers will come out with some easy passes in the flat to Tonyan. We'll also see Aaron Jones pounding the ball away at the interior of the Saints DL in an effort to let the young Packers OL settle in.
Look for a back and forth battle until Winston makes his mistake. Jaire steps in front of an out pass. It's a game changing play.
Dillon rushes for 60+ yards. Tonyan grabs 2 TD's. Davante tops 100 yards. Offensively, the Packers play mistake free football.
Packers 34.
Saints 27.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
The urgency is at peak levels. It's now or possibly never for the Packers and Aaron Rodgers to grab a 2nd Super Bowl ring together. I just hope this team remains laid back. I hope they don't press. I hope they continue to live in the moment. I hope they continue to enjoy the present. I hope they continue to play with a care free desire to win.
As I write, I listen to the Phish 9-1-21 show from Shoreline. I was fortunate to attend this concert at the famed CA venue. It's a day I'll remember forever. I sip a Modern Times Dungeon Map West Coast IPA. It's a little less clear than I prefer, but it's a super smooth tasty hop. I find it to be really refreshing.
The Packers take on the Saints in Jacksonville as they embark on their 2021 journey. For the 2nd year in a row, the Packers catch a break while playing the Saints. Last year, they were fortunate to not have fans in the Dome. This year, they are playing in Jacksonville. And, while the humidity will be a major factor, it'll be a significant benefit to not be trapped indoors.
The Saints will have a new look. It concerns me that there will be very little tape on what to expect from Sean Paytond this weekend. Jameis Winston has always been a good playmaker. He just makes too many mistakes. The Saints will play through Alvin Kamara. If the Packers struggle to tackle Kamara like they have in the past, the defense will be in for a long afternoon. I'd like to think that the Packers match up well with Marquez Callaway, Lil'Jordan Humphrey and Deonte Harris as receivers. The Saints OL will bephysical, but I anticipate that the Packers will be able to get a push.
Defensively, the Saints are physical. Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, Malcolm Jenkins and Marshon Lattimore are elite. Marcus Davenport has great length as a pass rusher. He'll be disruptive. Kwon Alexander is an active player. The Saints defense will fly around the field. But, if the young Packers OL can provide protection, I really believe the Packers will put up big points.
My biggest fear for the Packers this weekend is their ability to tackle Deonte Harris as a returner. The Packers cannot let Harris beat them. He's the ultimate threat as a return man. If special teams don't cost the Packers the game, I like their chances.
I believe Rodgers will come out with some easy passes in the flat to Tonyan. We'll also see Aaron Jones pounding the ball away at the interior of the Saints DL in an effort to let the young Packers OL settle in.
Look for a back and forth battle until Winston makes his mistake. Jaire steps in front of an out pass. It's a game changing play.
Dillon rushes for 60+ yards. Tonyan grabs 2 TD's. Davante tops 100 yards. Offensively, the Packers play mistake free football.
Packers 34.
Saints 27.
Go Pack Go!
Talkin' S-Mac.
talkins-mac.blogspot.com
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