Bears 23 Packers 24: Game Balls & Lame Calls
By jasonperone
The Green Bay Packers threw everything they had at the home fans in attendance to watch them kick off their 100th season in existence. Fortunately, that also included an incredible record-setting win over the Chicago Bears.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers left the game in the first half with a knee injury and a manageable deficit quickly turned into a nightmare after back up DeShone Kizer fumbled and threw an interception for a touchdown. Both turnovers came at the hands of newly-acquired linebacker Khalil Mack who many Packers fans thought would be on the Green Bay side of the ball in this game.
After going down 20-0 in the third quarter, the Packers outscored Chicago 24-3 to end the game in victory, capped off by an incredible touchdown catch and run by Randall Cobb.
On to the game's best and worst.
Game Balls
Aaron Charles Rodgers
Full name. Full stop. OK, I can't stop there. Packers fans waited nearly a year to see a fully healthy Rodgers in action. The offense was lethargic and couldn't get anything going and then to make matters worse than they could possibly be, Rodgers suffered a knee injury on a sack in the first half.
After a lack of updates, fans had no idea if their hero would be back and he came out of the tunnel in uniform and with helmet in hand to start the second half. With virtually no mobility, Rodgers made an incredible throw to Geronimo Allison for the first touchdown. The following series ended with a nice catch and run by Davante Adams.
With under three minutes left, Rodgers moved the Packers near mid-field when he was able to find Cobb over the middle and Cobb did the rest.
What lands Rodgers here and a clear first and foremost is his toughness and will to win. Rodgers mentioned Brett Favre in his post game comments and how Favre set the example for toughness. We saw Favre do some magical things in his time but he never did what Rodgers helped the Packers do: come back from a 17-point deficit entering the fourth quarter.
If it wasn't already official after all that we've seen over the years with Rodgers, it's official: he clutch. And he's ours!
Randall Cobb
Cobb, based on fan reaction this offseason and preseason, shouldn't even have been in this game. They wanted him out of Green Bay. Trade him. Cut him, they said.
All Cobb did was catch a game-high nine passes for a game-high 142 yards. 75 of those came on the Packers final touchdown with Cobb eluding Mack to step into the end zone for the score.
Sometimes it's not about being the fastest or most skilled guy out there. But having the undeniable trust of your quarterback and knowing where to be at a crucial point in the game is indispensable.
David Bakhtiari
I don't know how Bakhtiari graded out in this game but it didn't appear that he allowed any negative plays and he lands here because offensive linemen never get the love that they deserve. Arguably the best left tackle in all of football didn't have his name called all night and for an offensive lineman, that's a good thing.
Lame Calls
Clay Matthews
After the Cobb touchdown and needing a stop to seal the win, the Packers defense forced an incompletion on a 4th-and-9. Game over, huge win secured. Then, a flag on the play.
Matthews didn't hold up after Bears quarterback Mitch Trubisky let the ball go and the veteran linebacker bumped into the quarterback a full step after the throw. Matthews was flagged for roughing the passer, giving the Bears new life and a new set of downs.
Matthews, much like Cobb, was the subject of many debates about whether or not he still has value in the Packers defense. This moment didn't do anything to calm those whispers (which became shouts of angst).
Players have to know that the added emphasis on quarterback safety will lead to calls on plays like that. In that situation, at that time? Inexcusable.
DeShone Kizer
Kizer fumbled and lost the ball followed by throwing a pick-six on a screen - to the same guy. Blame the protection all you want but Kizer has to take care of the football. He cost the Packers 10 points which will almost always land you in the Lame Calls column.
Others to mention:
- Mike McCarthy and his staff actually made some adjustments and helped change the course of this game. It's amazing what your team can accomplish when you aren't stubborn and show a willingness to make changes
- Geronimo Allison made a few nice catches, none nicer than the touchdown catch for the team's first score on the night
- Bryan Bulaga didn't look great but it was Khalil Mack so that has to count for something. He looked much better in the second half
- Justin McCray struggled early on but also settled in during the second half and didn't have his name called again
- Davante Adams had a few more underrated plays, namely his touchdown catch and run. He's so good with the ball in his hands and he's not down until he's down. Bears defenders learned that in this game
- Ha Ha Clinton-Dix made a big play. Let's just enjoy it and hope those grow in number this season
- The rookie corners had some good moments and some not-so-good moments. Jaire Alexander had a nice pass break up that was negated by penalty. Continued growth will pay dividends for the Packers defense
- Kenny Clark quietly with a good game
Bring on the Vikings!
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Jason is a freelance writer on staff since 2012 and also co-hosts Cheesehead TV Live, Pulse of the Pack and Pack A Day podcasts. You can follow him on Twitter here
Comments (95)
Point-Packer
September 10, 2018 at 12:16 pm
Lame Call: Mike McCarthy. This team is the Browns without #12 on the field. Can we stop pretending McCarthy is anything but an average NFL coach? GB was not ready to play. Did not make any adjustments to compensate for Mack's entry into the NFC North. Offense lacked creativity, even after bringing Philbin back. Rodger heroics and other-worldly talent are the Green Bay Packers. Mike McCarthy is simply along for the ride.
Turophile
September 10, 2018 at 12:33 pm
Ok glass half-empty guy. To balance that lame call here is a game ball.
Kenny Clark is not 'going to be good' or 'could really be something', or 'might turn into a fine player'.............He already IS all of those things, and what is more he keeps on bringing it. Great effort.
Also, we already knew the corners were going to be something different from last year. We also knew (or should have) that the rookies would make rookie mistakes because, well, they are rookies (and even King isn't much more experienced than that). That unit, with help from Tramon, looks like it might be anything from good to great, the next few years. The opposition is still completing passes, but the catches seem more contested, already, and it's only game 1.
Point-Packer
September 10, 2018 at 12:27 pm
Despite the truth about the contents of my container, I'll reply in the affirmative and agree with your take on Kenny Clark.
dobber
September 10, 2018 at 12:27 pm
I hope he rides all the way to the SuperBowl.
EdsLaces
September 10, 2018 at 12:36 pm
But ....if the Browns had 12 they'd be pretty damn good.
jasonperone
September 10, 2018 at 12:40 pm
I'm hardly a MM apologist and maybe it's his coordinators stepping up but I at least credit him for surrounding himself with better personnel. I'm not sure even BB is raking in the trophies without Brady so having a great QB doesn't mean MM is necessarily riding coat tails
As for adjustments to compensate for Mack, the only thing I found odd was that Lewis wasn't used more to reinforce on that side BUT. . putting him in means one less WR or RB.
Even if MM is average, that may be all it takes to win another with 12 under center. The whole is greater than the individual parts
Minniman
September 10, 2018 at 01:27 pm
Have a look at the second half again, I commented this on another article, but you will see Jimmy G chip-blocking Mack back to Bulaga (who had warmed into the game by then and was well able to contain Mack). Nothing fantastic. but enough for a good right tackle like Bulaga to take over and blunt Mack.
After sleeping on it (contentedly I might add) I'd give Bulaga half a game ball - he did an admirable job game 1 back from an injury and facing a situation like that.
After watching Rodgers' (and several other players) full locker-room interviews I totally agree with your comment Jason that the whole is greater than the individual. He said that he was going to come back out and set the standard and the team (coaches included) lifted to it.
1 word - Leader.
Razer
September 10, 2018 at 12:41 pm
I hope this is the last game that we need to discuss the offense coming out flat or ineffective. People said that our Caper's defense was predictable and dated. I believe that. I think that same predictability and staleness exists with our offensive game planning. Relying on Rodgers to save the game is risky business. We shouldn't be "lucky" to pull out these wins - our offense should be pulling away and burying these teams. McCarthy and his coaches need to show up - and soon.
Point-Packer
September 10, 2018 at 12:57 pm
Couldn't agree more. When Green Bay under Rodgers leadership has been at its best, its when the Pack are burying their opponents right out of the gate, scoring points and forcing opposing teams to abandon their game plan. Rodgers needs to get his assistants, namely Mike McCarthy, to dial up a creative offensive game plan that leads to this outcome.
Justin Morrow
September 10, 2018 at 02:14 pm
McCarthy always try’s to establish the running game first & Rodgers doesn’t find his rtyhym quickly because of it. Who in the world would try to establish the running game first if your QB is Rodgers. Open up the passing game first along with screens & dump passes to RB & the running game will open up just fine. Too many 3 & outs with run, run, pass and lack of creativity from McCarthy
Barnacle
September 10, 2018 at 09:10 pm
Justine
MM is clueless and stubborn. We would be better off letting Rodgers call the plays.
Thegreatreynoldo
September 11, 2018 at 02:11 am
Except the game opened with two runs that netted a first down. Then:
3 passes, 3 incompletions, punt.
3 passes: 1 sack, 1 short completion, 1 INC, punt.
Run, run, short completion to Cobb short of the sticks. Punt
Pass, Pass, Sack Punt
Johnblood27
September 11, 2018 at 07:35 pm
STOP Already!!!
Enough of this blasphemous truth-telling!
You are spoiling a good narrative with your objectivity and reality.
I for one have had enough of it!
PAPackerbacker
September 10, 2018 at 01:43 pm
I've been saying that for the past 3 or 4 years. I agree with you. This one is on the coaches. But one thing is certain, the refs are calling roughing the passer to quickly. There were a couple times when it was not justified. And penalties are a momentum killer. It's ridiculous. Saw it in the Browns and Steeler game too.
Jaylee
September 10, 2018 at 01:26 pm
Awful, weak take. Short of teams with QBs outperforming their rookie contracts (Wilson, Wentz, etc) or teams playing in LEGENDARILY weak divisions (Patriots), any team that is built around an elite, top-tier QB is garbage without that player. Rodgers is 20%+ of the roster salary, of course if you lose 1/5 of your team, you're done for the season.
I'm far from a McCarthy fanatic, but he is an above average coach. He is no Belichick or even close, not even a top 5 coach. But name 10 current coaches that are better. Or even 7. WIthout being sarcastic or hyperbolic, you can't.
"Average" coaches don't lead a team to the playoffs 9 out of 12 seasons (1 miss was his first season, another was Rodgers' first season, and the last was his starting QB being gone most of the season), six 1st place division titles, 3 conference championship games and a Superbowl win. Just ask Dan Marino. Ask Andrew Luck. Having an excellent QB guarantees you NOTHING.
His system is 100% built around making good quarterbacks elite and successful. That is what he does, that is the focus of his talent. When he has uncoachable bottom tier backup QBs. his system doesn't work. It's a small gamble, but one that pays off more often than it does not. Deal with it.
If you want a team that isn't built around their QB, go watch the Jaguars. You can watch all of the 12 - 6 wins you can stomach, then we don't have to hear your uninformed whining when their no-name QB gets injured.
Johnblood27
September 11, 2018 at 07:38 pm
I am Randy Wright, Scott Hunter, Jerry Tagge, etc. and I endorse this message...
fastmoving
September 10, 2018 at 01:35 pm
Every team with a top five passer is a lot less without him, not much wisdom in this. thats how this kind of teams are build.
and by the way, its not bad being the browns 2018, if that is what you tryin to say. But Im just ok with our team and even more with that unbelievable comeback win. thats what football is all about. at least for me and I have no idea what are you looking for. But I guess you will never find it,
porupack
September 10, 2018 at 03:01 pm
I agree Point Packer, I have rarely criticized MM, but what we saw in the first half stank, and no excuse. What the hell was mini camp and spring training for? Get guys prepared, or find a new job.
That offensive unit looked so befuddled; can't run, can't block, can't do screens or slants, just watched helplessly while Chicago pummeled the offensive so-called weapons.
How does Chigo make 5-8 yard run plays while GB makes 2 yard run plays, time after time, year after year.
How does Chigo make catch after catch and receivers open all over the place, and GB gets sacks looking for open receivers.
How do you bring in elite TEs and not have a way to get them the ball to bail out weak Oline?
I will have no mercy on MM this year, whether a win or loss, I'll judge him on how well that team executes, how it starts, how it adjusts. I don't think MM gets much credit for the win. But I admit, I was so damn mad by half time, I won't be nice to MM unless he atones by whacking Vikings with strategies they don't know what sport they playin.
Jaylee
September 10, 2018 at 03:57 pm
Yeah, damn, if only the Packers could be the Chicago bears for the past 12 years.
/end of debate
JonathanSpader
September 10, 2018 at 04:33 pm
Jaylee you do know that the whole point of a blog is to debate right?
Porupack couldn't agree more than the lack of TE usage was ridiculously frustrating. Why didn't MM use Lewis to help Bulaga and McCray? Where was Jimmy Graham?
croatpackfan
September 10, 2018 at 04:41 pm
All of those players you called by name are still at TC. PAckers offense used 35 minutes of Bears game to gel together. And when that happened, who made the biggest games? Players whe were already on the Packers roster for some time.
You can not expect team will play like team if you did not play them as the team!
Tundraboy
September 10, 2018 at 10:15 pm
Agree. How does a team come out of the gate, starting it's historic 100th season,at home, against its arch rival like that? Why does it take getting into a huge whole for the coach to realize the script isnt working?
Here's hoping they shook that hangover off heading into the Vikings game. If Rodger's performance doesn't further inspire and motivate the team to rise to the challenge I will be surprised and of course disappointed.
Thegreatreynoldo
September 11, 2018 at 02:25 am
MM does not adjust of his own volition. AR's injury forced MM to adjust, and it forced AR to adjust as well. MM is not a good coach, with all due respect to Jaylee's opinion to the contrary. I give MM no credit for making any adjustments.
One of Pettine's adjustments was yanking Morrison from the field early. Morrison played 11 snaps altogether, including most of the Bears first series, which was a 10 play drive. Pettine went to 6 and even 7 DBs.
Point-Packer
September 11, 2018 at 11:26 am
Tom Brady once told an NFL coach, if Aaron Rodgers had Patriots' offensive scheme & institutional knowledge on opposing defenses, "He'd throw for 7,000 yards every year. He's so much more talented than me."
Read more at: https://nesn.com/2018/09/tom-brady-once-admitted-aaron-rodgers-is-so-muc...
TRANSLATION: If Aaron Rodgers didn't have a below average (friendly amendment to my comment above) coach, GB would have had the Patriots success. Instead we get Missionary Mike and his stale offense and his blind loyalty - see Dom Capers.
TheBigCheeze
September 12, 2018 at 10:45 am
......I could not have said that better myself.......spot on......
GBPDAN1
September 10, 2018 at 12:28 pm
Game balls:
My neighbors for putting up with the screaming me and my friends produced during that epic come back.
My liver for putting up with my nervous drinking
My heart for putting up with the stress of that game
Triple lame call:
Matthews late hit on the QB when the game should have been over
Go Pack, Go Rodgers !
Johnblood27
September 11, 2018 at 07:44 pm
Add in my remission to my narcotics addiction at half time...
KenEllis
September 10, 2018 at 12:27 pm
If Clay's only bad play was that boneheaded penalty we could live with it.
But Clay was bad all night and truth be told is not even an average 3-4 outside linebacker at this point. Given his age and all the injuries that is not all that surprising.
Sadly the Packers are so thin at the position that Clay will continue to have to play a lot, because Fackrell is absolutely terrible.
GBPDAN1
September 10, 2018 at 12:41 pm
KenEllis... unfortunately, you are right about Clay, he's an average at best OLB at this point, especially as a edge rusher. We are in need of a dynamic edge rusher and TJ Watt had 4 sacks yesterday.
TJ Watt fell right into our laps in the draft but Ted's shortcomings of failing to produce at CB ( drafted a Safety and headcase to play CB - Randell, a basketball player - Rollins, let Hayward and Hyde walk) he decided to trade out and draft King. King will be good, but failing prior at CB caused this chain of events.
Just one of Ted's many failures over the last several years. I was extremely happy when I didn't have to see Ted's gazed face in the executive booth last night.
Demon
September 10, 2018 at 01:13 pm
The sight of Ted with his mouth agape last season was the most entertaining moment of the season. At that moment many of his choices over the previous 5 years all made sense.
Lame call Kizer Really? I could have sworn we traded Hundley to the Seahawks . Now I'm not sure.
Justin Morrow
September 10, 2018 at 02:18 pm
Maybe clay back to inside LB. he played good when he was inside LB previously
Jaylee
September 10, 2018 at 09:52 pm
I would agree with this if we weren't hurting SO bad at OLB that even an average performance from Matthews is better than what he would be replaced with.
TheBigCheeze
September 12, 2018 at 10:54 am
....you're correct.....but McCarthy is too stubborn to do that.
dblbogey
September 10, 2018 at 06:00 pm
I absolutely agree about Clay. On the plus side, next year's draft is talented and fairly deep at pass rusher and we still have the 2 #1 picks we didn't trade away for Mack. Actually we would have had to give up even more than that to beat the Bear's offer. We also don't have to pay Mack the $10 trillion the Bears gave him. Hopefully New Orleans continues to suck the rest of the year
TarynsEyes
September 10, 2018 at 12:30 pm
Whether you say the glass is half full or half empty, the thing that is true for both...it's 50/50 on what you'll get and last nights heroic win via Rodgers should not allow yourself to jump into the euphoric dreams to come blindly. If one watches the game again with blinders of heroics off..reality keeps you 50/50 going forward.
4thand1
September 10, 2018 at 02:22 pm
I think a lot of glasses were full, then were emptied repeatedly , emptied of booze watching this. Especially the 1st half.
fthisJack
September 11, 2018 at 07:27 am
tarynfor's glass is usually empty unless they win...then it goes to half full.
Spock
September 11, 2018 at 11:33 am
Taryn is an alleged fan of the Packers. I say "alleged" because even when they win an amazing comeback like that it's still all negative. Why even watch the team if you can't enjoy something as historic as that? Baffles me. Most of us were transported from the gloom of the first half with Rodgers going down to near euphoria at the heroics of Arod's play. If you can't enjoy THAT why watch? I honestly don't/won't ever understand how someone can say they are a team's fan and not even appear to be even mildly happy (except for apparently making $$$$ on the Vegas bet) about the team beating our oldest running rival in the first game of our 100th season. Whatever. Taryn has gotta Taryn I guess. Does make for some interesting debate on the site though. :)
EdsLaces
September 10, 2018 at 12:39 pm
I'd say the entire secondary played pretty well except for King. Even Evans and Brice had some pretty solid plays.
Coldworld
September 10, 2018 at 02:10 pm
This D will take time to gel. Be nice to have a Burks and Jones back too. I think both would have been used last night.
I saw some encouraging signs. No way last year’s secondary achieves that result.
I think we may see an incoming OLB this week. How much difference he will make is a different matter, but I think a reinforcement is likely.
As to the O. Hopefully the rust was knocked off the O line after the first half. Remember, Chicago brought some pretty unusual sets and calls in the first couple of drives. This was a D no one has seen before under this coordinator. That offers the advantage of surprise.
Alison and Cobb took some big steps to justify their roles last night. Sometimes we are too pessimistic here.
Spock
September 11, 2018 at 11:36 am
"Sometimes we are too pessimistic here." HERE? Nah, never. Lol.
billybobton
September 10, 2018 at 12:40 pm
What is infuriating is the reporting, not here of course, that MM said the best thing the packers do is pistol. Her further said the best thing Rodgers does is no huddle.
Rodgers required MM to agree to pistol and no huddle before he went back in.
Where is the follow up? Where is the questioning why we can not simply start with what we do best and why it takes near disaster to go there.
How is that smart coaching or adjusting? It might be extortion from Rodgers to MM but it is not good coaching.
Justin Morrow
September 10, 2018 at 02:21 pm
McCarthy is a good coach, but bad play caller. Let Rodgers call the plays for 1 game & see what happens.
Barnacle
September 10, 2018 at 09:23 pm
Justine
MM is a bad play caller and a moron coach.
MITM
September 10, 2018 at 02:31 pm
Couldnt agree more. And its been like that for a long time.
Tundraboy
September 10, 2018 at 09:59 pm
"Where is the follow up? Where is the questioning why we can not simply start with what we do best and why it takes near disaster to go there.
How is that smart coaching or adjusting?"
I wonder the same thing. Each upcoming game I worry as much about what MM will end up doing during the next game, as much as I do about the health,injury progress or recent play of the players.
Richard Smith
September 10, 2018 at 12:53 pm
Can we please stop with the pining over players we don't have or never got. A lot of you sound like such whiny little kids. It's the first game, and we WON! Give your negative, the "my life always sucks" attitude a rest for once and find a silver lining for once. That shouldn't be too hard, seeing as we won the damn game!
Point-Packer
September 10, 2018 at 12:58 pm
By definition, sure, Green Bay won. But really, they just survived.
TarynsEyes
September 10, 2018 at 01:21 pm
By definition....any win allows some fans to ignore truth about a team's play until they lose. Then the definition is filled with excuses and still ignoring the team's play.
Coldworld
September 10, 2018 at 02:41 pm
You two need some Valium. There is a long way to go, but it’s just as nonsensical to forecast doom as boom after last night.
HankScorpio
September 10, 2018 at 02:53 pm
I'm glad I'm not smart enough to figure out how to turn such a fun win into something else.
Minniman
September 10, 2018 at 04:01 pm
I'll take an ugly win over a pretty loss any day.
After next week's game vs the vikes it would be fairer to make calls on their championship caliber
fastmoving
September 10, 2018 at 04:06 pm
that win was not ugly.........no way
HankScorpio
September 11, 2018 at 06:40 am
Going from 0-124 to 1-124 when down 20 points was not at all ugly. Doing it against the Bears, particularly in light of their fanbase lipping off so much in the run-up to the game, turns it to a beautiful masterpiece of football art. One I'll remember and enjoy for a very long time.
The poor play that led to them being down 20 in the first place is for the coaches and players to worry about. My focus on that stuff won't change any of it. And it just detracts from my enjoyment of the final picture.
Spock
September 11, 2018 at 11:43 am
Why do I get the feeling that Taryn and Point Packer would both grouse over the taxes they had to pay if they won the lottery? Sheesh, Debbie Downer would not even get the 3rd seat at the table with them because she's "too positive".
PatrickGB
September 10, 2018 at 01:13 pm
Richard, you are spot on. There is only one thing to do about yesterday and that is let it go and learn from it.
kevgk
September 10, 2018 at 01:16 pm
No Kentrell Brice? Led the team in tackles and was all over the ball. The whole safety squad played well.
Coldworld
September 10, 2018 at 02:42 pm
Even Whitehead made a key play. ...
jasonperone
September 10, 2018 at 05:00 pm
I pondered Brice but I rarely let the box score alone make the call. He was effective, but Game Balls are for big contributors and key play makers. He basically did his job.
Another thing that factored, whether right or wrong, was that Rodgers and Cobb were your top getters this week. Tough acts to follow under the circumstances
Qoojo
September 10, 2018 at 01:19 pm
Lame doesn't do CM3's and Kizer's performances justice though.
Lare
September 10, 2018 at 01:25 pm
Unfortunately, I have this nagging feeling that they aren't going to get any better this year either.
4thand1
September 10, 2018 at 02:25 pm
Moreso with CM, he's a vet with a ton of experience, no excuse. Start Gilbert over him, maybe it will light a fire under his ass.
Minniman
September 10, 2018 at 04:22 pm
Regrettably there was a great divide between the performance that Mack turned in and the one that CM3 displayed.
I'm not categorically saying that CM3 stank (he had some good plays), but I saw him flat on his back a couple of times....... which is a real no-no for a team's #1 OLB\Pass rusher.
I thought that the interior D for GB did a solid job.
...... amateur coaches advice, play for the ball not the QB - the 2 times that Mack got through to Kizer he was less interested in maiming Kizer than dislodging the ball
CJBauckham
September 10, 2018 at 01:32 pm
Lame call to Cris Collinsworth. I'd pay Mack and Rodgers salary if I could to never hear him call another game
Cubbygold
September 10, 2018 at 01:48 pm
I'm sure he'd accept that offer, just reach out
JonathanSpader
September 10, 2018 at 04:39 pm
I have criticized Collinsworth in the past many times. I mentioned before the game my drinking game was a drink everytime I heard him say RPO. That wasn't the reason I drank as much as I did last night. I thought he was bearable this game.... get it?
Cubbygold
September 10, 2018 at 01:47 pm
"Matthews didn't hold up after Bears quarterback Mitch Trubisky let the ball go and the veteran linebacker bumped into the quarterback a full step after the throw"
This is a very kind way of describing what happened. The play wasn't bang-bang. Clay probably took three full steps after the ball left Trubisky's hand, and clay watched him throw it. There's no excuse for that level of ignorance and selfishness. The guy was frustrated from being a non-factor all night and saw his chance to finally inflict some pain. What a loser, can't wait till he's a raider next year.
Cubbygold
September 10, 2018 at 02:14 pm
Here's the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgAhxsXKRpY
He didn't take three steps, but he clearly saw the ball was already gone
Minniman
September 10, 2018 at 04:28 pm
I commented up the post, CM3 needs to take a leaf out of Mack and Miller's book and play for the ball (and turnover) not the QB. The game clearly doesn't want to see smashed QB's.
CM3 gave in to his frustrations - wise up to the new officiating standards and be better than that.
Tundraboy
September 10, 2018 at 09:48 pm
Exactly.
Lphill
September 10, 2018 at 01:50 pm
so when Rodgers saw the pressure and went to the ground the defenders continued and the weight of the defender landing on Rodgers seemed excessive but no call but Perry and Mathews were called immediately ?
Justin Morrow
September 10, 2018 at 02:23 pm
I thought a penalty should’ve been called too. All the guy had to do is touch him with 1 hand while on the ground & he gets the sack
Minniman
September 10, 2018 at 04:38 pm
Rodgers still had the ball in his hands and hadn't hit the turf when contact was made, and to his credit Robertson-Harris didn't lead with the shoulder (instead wrapping up the QB).
Rodgers didn't get injured by the contact, rather the unfortunate circumstance of the player rolling on his leg (which was in a bad position).
An unfortunate circumstance but a good defensive play.
The o-line needs to put that one up on the bulletin-board with the caption "never again!'
By contrast I think that Barr should have served a fine or suspension for his hit on Rodgers last year
packersrule
September 10, 2018 at 01:57 pm
I watched a team that was playing together for the first time. The line has not played a single snap together in a game.
The real team was the 2nd half team. The defense looked good. It took a few drives but I saw fewer receivers running open. No defense is going to stop every play. This was a great start to the year by the defense. Next week it will get a bigger test but if Aaron can play the Packers will score points. The rust is off the team!
Justin Morrow
September 10, 2018 at 02:25 pm
A lot of the Bears offensive success was dump passes to RB, screens, & cutback runs right passes the out of position Clay Matthews
4thand1
September 10, 2018 at 02:10 pm
It's week one and the Pack won. I'd like to know what was said to the o line at half time. McCray, and Bulaga had their hands full. They got better. The defense also got better, new system 1st time against real comp. The injury to Rodgers forced MM and Philibin to make adjustments. Would they have stuck with the same plan all game if not for the injury? I hope Pettine starts Gilbert over CM against the queens. Send a clear message, produce and don't make stupid, dumbass plays that could cost the game. It almost cost me a new tv, SOB, SOB, I was soooooo pissed. MM has been here seems like forever and every year it seems the team is unprepared to start a season. Here's to beating the queens and starting 2-0. GOPACKGO.
Cubbygold
September 10, 2018 at 02:12 pm
Bulaga had some interesting comments about how he adjusted as the game went on. I think the biggest adjustment is that 12 just couldn't drop back and they knew to call quick plays. Worked like magic to mitigate that pass rush.
Duneslick
September 10, 2018 at 02:19 pm
Packer Greg says I don't know if Green bay can even win 1 game this year without Rodgers
Since'61
September 10, 2018 at 02:28 pm
I agree with the Game Balls but I would Bulaga. He was virtually alone against Mack for most of the game and he held up well considering it was his first live action returning from injury.
The defense gets a game ball as well for holding the Bears to under 150 yards and 6 points after the Bears first 2 drives.
Can't argue with the lame calls on CM3 and Kizer. CM3 penalty was just stupid and unnecessary and Kizer was trying to imitate Hundley.
As for the comments about the early offense, remember that Rodgers was out for the second quarter. If he wasn't injured the final score is probably 34-16 Packers since the Packers probably score a TD when Kizer fumbled and Rodgers never makes a panic throw resulting in Mack's pick six.
The Packers win easy and probably pulling away and MMs game plan looks completely different.
Then again maybe MMs game plan was to exhaust the Bears defense in the first half so they couldn't keep up with the Packers in the 2nd half. In any case, the Packers won and that is all that matters. Stay positive, it feels much better than being negative all time. Go Pack Go! Thanks, Since '61
cheesehead1
September 10, 2018 at 02:47 pm
You’re right a win is a win, but I was very surprised that they came out so flat and uninspired. Let’s be honest, the Bears aren’t world beaters on Offense and yet they dominated our D early. Still very concerned how our D will be up to the task against a much better Offense.
Since'61
September 10, 2018 at 03:27 pm
The Bears also threw a variety of different looks and formations at the Packers D early. After their first 2 drives the Bears did nothing. The Packers defense made Rodgers improbable comeback possible.
Better to give up an early 10 points than to collapse completely during the 4th quarter as they usually did under Capers. It's not how you start it's how you finish. Thanks, Since '61
Minniman
September 10, 2018 at 04:42 pm
Amen. The D didn't break in the 4th quarter and that counted.
Gianich
September 10, 2018 at 02:43 pm
Game balls: 2nd half pass pro and Run defense. That 12 guy and the WRs making the most of the ball in their hands!
Lame calls: The safeties were quietly exploited all game. Continuing to miss tackles and it seemed 90% of Trib completions came with a safety in coverage. Looking like the young and old corners are a pretty darn good unit. The D-line is a force as well. The safeties and Line-backing corp got and will continue to get exploited..They need Burks back ASAP. Haha had a nice play in the clutch on 3rd down. Every other time all I seemed to see was him with some crap angles on pursuit and some bad whiffs. Same with Brice....Very concerned about this team defending the middle of the field....
Malland56
September 10, 2018 at 05:30 pm
"Matthews didn't hold up after Bears quarterback Mitch Trubisky let the ball go and the veteran linebacker bumped into the quarterback a full step after the throw."
What game were you watching? I follow Matthews every play when he's out there. I suggest you watch that play again. OMG, even Matthews said it was just a tad late. Are you guys blind. I replayed it and he took 3 not 2 not 1 steps after he threw the ball before he TACKLED him not bumped into him. Wake up.
Then on that last 4th down play where Perry sacked the QB Matthews left his coverage on the RB to rush the QB who was running away from him and he left the running back wide(an I mean wide) open. All there QB had to do was look and lob the pass to him and he had a huge gain.
Malland56
September 10, 2018 at 05:33 pm
Put Matthews on the bench except to sub and get Gilbert in there full time. At least when he was in there he would contain the pocket not let a gaping hole for the QB to run through because he can't rush from the outside anymore.
stockholder
September 10, 2018 at 10:45 pm
No. CMIII is no longer listed as the Left OLB. Perry is. CMIII is listed as the Right OLB. CMIII was drafted for the Left OLB position. Perry was drafted for the Right OLB. (A position only Peppers could play effectively.) So while CMIII has moved around to help the defense. Perry found he could get more push against a Left Tackle. And reach with his right hand. CMII is needed on the outside. (Biegel flopped). . And Gilbert isn't Peppers. The packers have two problems from the right side. 1. CMIII is not built like a DE. (Peppers) Two: they play the 3-4-4. Gone are Gabe Wilkins, and Arron Kampman even Peppers. The RT is on the Right OLB. Even another TE. Something Perry was drafted for. Perry cannot play Right OLB===(Right!. ) The packers were hoping CMIII speed will win. But it's also led to CMIII Hammy problems. Also Perry will get hurt again there. So we down grade both and want a pass rusher taken. But CMII is making the money and so is Perry. Someone has to plat Right OLB. (Frakwell would fail too.) The point is No one can play Right OLB on this club. MCIII is the best they have. To change this the packers must change their front! Something like the Eagles do. 7 men. CMIII has to be moved back to the left. . Or Perry back to the right. But Perry cannot play the ROLB until they switch to a bigger front. Many want CMIII on the inside. He's still the fastest Lb. But the frustration is CMIII is out of position. Mack would have been the perfect solution. But the real solution is change the front!!!
Spock
September 11, 2018 at 12:05 pm
stockholder, I'm confused by your right/left stuff. Perry sacked the Trubisky coming from the RIGHT side of the defensive line. Are you saying that's the LEFT because it was against the LT of the offense? I'm not trying to be snarky, just confused about what you are saying.
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 10, 2018 at 05:38 pm
I would love to see Clay bounce back with a good game against the Vikings. I can't accept that we're paying double figures for a complete waste--it can't be that bad.
Lare
September 10, 2018 at 05:52 pm
Unfortunately it is. Matthews should be moved inside and even then only play sparingly.
Gutekunst needs to sign another OLB. Pretty much anyone would be an improvement over Matthews.
Coldworld
September 10, 2018 at 06:09 pm
Lol, he is not even the worst. OLB linebacker on our roster.
Christopher Gennaro
September 11, 2018 at 04:25 pm
While you are so right about him not being the worst, he is a shell of himself. You add we are top heavy team in salary in a few people, his performance was awful, and he let his emotions take over. Look if he is a vet use your head. what's worse is he has what like one move now and everyone has seen it for years, so unless he sets the edge better I would run at him all day.
OldTimer
September 10, 2018 at 07:09 pm
Hard game to watch at first, but I really thought they got it going pretty well. Kizer had a few hard plays, but he was throwing fast and accurate when they kept people off of him. I think he has improved quite a bit. Not ready for prime time yet, but still more potential than we have had foe awhile. Rodgers was having trouble getting things going at first as well. Bulaga and McCray both started awful. I though all of the defense held their own after the first couple of series. King was beat early, but played well overall. I agree Clay never should have hit Trubinsky, but he did supply pressure better than you are giving him credit for. A lot of players stepped up last night and did what needed to be done. Rodgers was great, but this was very much a team win. The future is bright! Go Pack Go.
Spock
September 11, 2018 at 12:13 pm
OldTimer, That's definitely a positive spin on Kiser, but I kind of agree that before those two horrible mistakes (making Mack look great) Kiser actually threw some nice passes. He's a work in progress for sure, but I can see some hope for him to develop. I'll raise my "glass half full" to your comment (the glass was full way too many times during the game, lol). Cheers!
4thand10
September 10, 2018 at 09:22 pm
Mo Wilkerson had a very good game, not sexy, but a very good game.
TheBigCheeze
September 12, 2018 at 10:57 am
......CM3 is constantly being pushed out, and back.....a quick spin move would put him right to the QB......but he doesn't do that....pitiful....