Cory's Corner: Ten wins doesn't make questions go away
The Packers clinched their seventh straight playoff appearance with a 30-20 win at Oakland on Sunday.
It’s been a long road to 10 wins for Green Bay. Starting with Jordy Nelson’s season-ending injury, the offensive ineptitude and coach Mike McCarthy taking back the offensive play-calling duties.
“This ain’t about style points,” McCarthy said, who has only missed the playoffs twice during his 10 years as the Packers head coach. “It’s about coming into a tough place to play against a different opponent.”
Once again, Green Bay’s offense looked dazed and confused as it converted just 4-for-13 (31 percent) on third down. Sunday’s offensive brownout was a microcosm of how this season has gone. The Packers are 63-for-176 on third down (36 percent) and have thrown the ball 116 more times than they have ran it this season.
Aaron Rodgers, who has now finished with a passer rating with less than 100 in eight straight games, didn’t see it the same way. He doesn’t think that Week 15 is the best time to hand out participation trophies.
“We just don’t have a clear-cut direction.” Rodgers said. “We were too inconsistent.”
And now that McCarthy is calling plays again, that’s a shot at him. McCarthy took over play-calling duties last week in a dominating performance on the ground vs. Dallas.
But it doesn’t just stop with Rodgers.
“I think offensively, we left a lot of points out there,” said Green Bay right tackle Bryan Bulaga. We didn’t execute well enough.”
Bulaga should know. He held off the best quarterback seeker in the game to one sack, which was also Khalil Mack’s only tackle.
Put quite simply, the Packers postseason run starts next week. If the Packers can go to the desert and grab a win from the Cardinals, the hottest team in the NFC, Green Bay should have its sights on a No. 2 seed and a legitimate shot at the NFC Championship Game.
Even with all of the subtractions, including Ty Montgomery’s recent addition to the season-ending injured reserve, the Packers still have the talent to make a Super Bowl run.
However, the locker room has taken on a life of its own. Winning teams are ones that take ownership of losses and mistakes. This one is more apt to either point fingers or only highlight the positive.
It’s hard to believe that the NFL schedule is 14 games old, because the Packers are still trying to figure out who they are. One week, they attempt 61 passes in a loss at home to Detroit and in the next two weeks, Eddie Lacy rushes for 100 and 105 yards on a combined 39 carries.
It starts with playing the right personnel. Emerging wideout Jared Abbrederis may not be flashy, but he has the smarts of a savvy veteran.
“He can get open,” Rodgers said. “He’s a good route runner. He needs to be on the field more.”
Abbrederis caught all three of his targets for 33 yards, while Davante Adams had another drop on Sunday to bring his season total to nine.
But enough negativity. The Packers are back in the NFL’s postseason tournament where anything can happen.
“I’m happy we’re going to the playoffs,” said Rodgers with a coy smile. “Very happy.”
If that isn’t code for winning ugly, then I don’t know what is.
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Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn
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Comments (167)
NashvilleCheesehead
December 22, 2015 at 06:42 am
Expectations are a bitch. The team and the fans (me included) thought that this team was destined for another Lombardi. The NFL plays a long season. IMO we all got ahead of ourselves....again. Once the playoffs start any team has a chance. We proved that. The Giants proved that. Have a beer. Relax. Enjoy. GO PACK GO!!!
mrj007
December 22, 2015 at 11:24 am
We thought Adams would make a jump and be all pro - he did not ; we thought Lacy would be equally improved - he is not; even the o line once thought to be a strength has turned out to be a false expectation ; and we all kidded ourselves into to thinking Inside LB was in capable hands; that plus key injury to nelson and barrington coupled with underwhelming TE play pretty much changes the expectations and more closely aligns with reality. Good (not great) on def and ST and a little below ave on offense. Team needs an ILB and TE in the worst way, but this was always a concern for this year's squad. I am hopeful Ryan, abbredaris and Quarless play well next week and provide a spark - if they can, the team might surprise AZ
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 12:55 pm
With Jordy I think they would have been a better/stronger contender. When he went down the degree they were contender went down, but they still are one. I never bought the hype w/ Adams. He's a nice complimentary WR but no way was he going to give the Packers what Jordy brought. Just completely different players and the offense needs #1 WR who's a deep threat. Was saying it even in preseason after Jordy was lost.
NickPerry
December 22, 2015 at 06:59 am
First of all Congratulations to MM and the Green Bay Packers for making the Playoffs for the 7th time in a row, that's a hell of an accomplishment in todays NFL. They've also have a good chance to win their 5th straight NFC North Title, again no small feat. But with all those accomplishments I've never had such a Bad Feeling about a Packers team before the Playoffs. Even in the 2013 season I had more confidence going in.
Clearly there's not a team that "Fears" the Packers Wide Receivers this season. We've watched game after game and it's a replay of the last game. Teams just keep Rodgers from getting outside the pocket, jam the receivers, and not one of them can win one on one. For the life of me I can't figure out why Abby wasn't in more.
Things need to change radically over the next few weeks for the Packers to have a chnace in the playoffs. Otherwise it could be the 4th one and done in those same 7 seasons. The defense is playing well enough to win I believe, but more will be revealed this weekend. GO PACK GO!!!
RCPackerFan
December 22, 2015 at 07:13 am
Abbrederis is a guy who can really help the offense out. He is a very good route runner, and seems to be getting on the same page as Rodgers.
Getting Quarless back will also help.
The biggest thing is WR have to start making plays. When the ball comes their way they have to catch the ball... I understand the last 2 games were very bad weather conditions. But they still have to catch the ball...
Schematically they still have to do a better job. Last week the way they used misdirection and moved Cobb around was a lot better. This week they didn't do that. I would like to see more misdirection types of plays. Be more creative in the way they use the players they do have.
I love the use of Cobb in the backfield, but find ways to be creative with other players.
MarkinMadison
December 22, 2015 at 07:28 am
Agree with everything you've said.
Still apprehensive about relying on Abby, but as long as he is healthy you might as well ride him.
3rd and 1/4th and 1 may be a function of the OL's collective health, and Lacy's uh, health. It will probably not get any better this season.
There are no great NFL teams this year. Carolina is good but very capable of losing. I don't care what their record says. Arizona looks really good. Patriots look really good. After that we got a lot of mush. Anything can happen.
NickPerry
December 23, 2015 at 05:51 am
@MarkinMadison.... Totally agree with your last paragraph, well actually all of it but the 3rd stuck out, especially about Carolina. They've did it a number of times where they jump out to huge leads and barely hang on to win. That won't fly in playoffs and I believe if the Playoffs shake out like I think they will, Seattle will beat them in the Divisional Round. The Packers HAD them if Rodgers even looked at Cobb, instead he said he "Saw something that scared him".
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 11:03 am
Absolutely, they HAVE to be more creative with what they have.
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 12:59 pm
Packers need someone specifically who can make plays outside the numbers and upfield.
RCPackerFan
December 22, 2015 at 01:14 pm
Yeah, that would help.
But honestly, they need to use what they have. They don't have the guy to attack that part of the field consistently right now. If Adams would get out of his funk he could be that guy.
I think they need to go to more the Patriots way of attacking teams, like they did last year in the playoffs. They used a lot of the slot WR's did quick hitting short passes and a strong running game, and a lot of motion/misdirection type of stuff...
I think the Packers can do that. But will the commit to it?
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 03:06 pm
The eternal question. Can not figure out why they refuse to try that ala the Pats With Cobb, Jones and Abby and the RBs they have the personnel. I'm really getting sick of MM's. stubbornness. And if it is in his plans and he does not want other teams to see this until the playoffs, he is a bigger fool than I thought. If they execute it will work whether the other team plans for it or not. It's not like they don't know what is coming Now!
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 06:11 pm
Better to try because it's not working the way we are going about it now. What do you suggest. Give up? Have Rodgers throw to Cobb and he can throw downfield?
NickPerry
December 24, 2015 at 07:20 am
Ummmmm, actually Cobb IS quick, he's just not a number one WR. Cobb needs his Batman (Jordy) to be Robin and form that Duo.
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 07:30 pm
Teams are sitting on all those quick hitting short routes. They've been doing it since wk 4 or earlier. Thats the book on the Packers, take away the short routes and make them beat you downfeild. Its been going on for months, why don't you see that?
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 07:57 pm
I do. Guess I'm grasping at straws out of frustration.
AZPack
December 23, 2015 at 12:19 am
I get that. I'm frustrated too. Was responding to. RC. He's saying do the short quick routes for months. But teams are doing everything to take exactly that away. Packers see nothing but tight coverage as soon as the ball is snapped. Press at the LOS and 8 in the box to stop the run is all they see all game,every game.
Cobb has no space to work, Jones cant beat anyone to get open, Adams isn't nor will ever be a deep threat.
Nothing but single high safeties, tight press coverage on any receivers and 8 in the box against the run. Its plain as day to see it and its every game, all game.
RCPackerFan
December 23, 2015 at 06:32 am
Basically what I want to see them do is more of what they did against the Cowboys. Do more misdirection stuff. Using the shorter passing game. Taking 4-5 yards at a time.
When they do it, it works.
Using Abbrederis more will help that. Many people may not like him, but he is an Eddleman type of player. He runs very crisp routes, gets where he has to go, and gets open. He is more of a slot guy. But like the Patriots last year, they found ways to use all of their slot guys. Thats basically how they attacked and beat the Seahawks defense in the Super Bowl.
Trust me I know they need a threat on the perimeter, but they simply don't have that. So they need to use what they have.
They also have to do more work schematically.
AZPack
December 23, 2015 at 01:29 pm
What they did vs Dallas was execute. Little was different schematically. Players executed better but otherwise the scheme didn't change.
RCPackerFan
December 23, 2015 at 01:54 pm
They actually did a lot more schematically. Yes players played better but they did a lot more schematically.
They moved Cobb around a lot. They motioned him into the backfield. Used him as a decoy and used him as the primary player in that play.
The perfect play schematically was when they motioned Cobb into the backfield, faked the hand off to him, and did a little swing pass to Starks. Perfectly drawn up play. And it was executed perfectly.
That is the type of misdirection stuff I want to see more of.
paxbak
December 22, 2015 at 07:23 am
I wonder what is REALLY going on. Something is not right with Rodgers. What happened to that guy? iS it really the WRs? I can definitely say partially, but some of it is definitely Aaron. He doesn;t seem to make as many of the throws he used to. I saw one on Sunday... the one to Cobb over the middle on third down. Oh, and the TD to Jones (pitch and catch). Other than that, the rest were pretty much a bunch of dump offs. Although the WRs have to make plays, he missed on 3rd and goal to Janis (too hard and high). He also missed on the one to Adams in the end zone (too high, behind him).
It is baffling to me what is going on. He doesn't seem to be into the games as much. His body language is off. Did you see the press conference with him after the game? Short responses... clearly something is bothering him.
Aaron, get your head out of your ass... it's playoff time!!
calabasa
December 22, 2015 at 10:59 am
Agreed. While some drops might be "catchable", they weren't very good throws- either too hard or they could've been in a better spot. That's just my eye test watching the game, but they didn't look like ARod throws- more like a Bradford or somebody.
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 12:11 pm
I'd be pissed off at the press conferences also - when you're 10 - 4 and in the playoffs and all the questions are about whats's wrong.
Dr.Rodgers
December 22, 2015 at 05:04 pm
Good story. Rodgers is now the great untouchable. He's his own star, and the rest of the team revolves around him and either are warmed by his glow or burned by his brilliance. Remember when he took over for Favre and would holler and grumble and point when he had to call a time out when his minions weren't lined up properly? If he had a couple more SB rings he might be able to get away with that ego trippin'.
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 01:02 pm
Definitely the WR. Rodgers is still throwing into coverage and throwing WR open, but the WR just aren't getting any separation. They're making Rodgers job next to impossible.
daveh
December 22, 2015 at 08:01 am
I gree with paxpak,,there is something going on with Rodgers, he has failed as a leader this year, making me wonder who was really the MVP Maybe it should have been Jody nelson
Razer
December 22, 2015 at 08:10 am
When I look the gift horse in the mouth I see a team that doesn't match up to their record. Losing at home to the Lions and Bears just doesn't seem right. In fairness to the team, only the offense is playing poorly. The defense, oddly enough, has become the strength of the Packers. Special teams has been the surprise and finally a positive contributor to game results. Who would have guessed that our trademark strength would still be floundering at week 15.
All it took was for Jordy Nelson to go down and the league to play press coverage against our WR. Go figure. If we sputter our way out of the playoffs early, I will be disappointed and complaint about all the usual things and forget that we always seem to get to the dance. Imagine what Viking, Lions and Bears fans feel like when December rolls around...
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 01:13 pm
While it may seem like they are as good as their record, they keep finding ways to win. That says alot about their resilience. Honestly maybe 3 teams they will have a lot of difficulty beating. The rest in the playoffs they can definitely beat.
Bearmeat
December 22, 2015 at 08:20 am
Time to move Adams to WR4. Abby to WR2. And what the hell is up with Lacy??
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 03:07 pm
It's time.
NickPerry
December 24, 2015 at 07:26 am
I agree Tundra, he may not be completely ready and have Rodgers trust, but at this point I'd like to see a guy on the field who can actually CATCH the ball.
SpudRapids
December 22, 2015 at 10:35 am
If they beat Arizona will you leave?
Dr.Rodgers
December 22, 2015 at 05:05 pm
Will you leave?
zoellner25
December 22, 2015 at 08:42 am
MM is delusional this year. This offense has been about the worst he's had. Look at the first down stats, the third down conversions, the third down and short stats, yards per attempt, explosive plays, long TDs. They are way down this year and it shows. They've gotten lucky this year.
Gianich
December 22, 2015 at 10:04 am
Seriously, if I can call a quick out based on formation and down and distance every time from my living room don't you think the defense that has been watching film all week can see it coming too. Enough with the 3rd and 6 quick pass! Enough with the Adams targets! Change it up or go one and done, it's on you Mike!
zoellner25
December 22, 2015 at 08:42 am
MM is delusional this year. This offense has been about the worst he's had. Look at the first down stats, the third down conversions, the third down and short stats, yards per attempt, explosive plays, long TDs. They are way down this year and it shows. They've gotten lucky this year.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 09:28 am
Watched the #intedwetrust folks cheering the win and resulting postseason birth, emphasizing the fact that we're regular season heroes again over how awful this offense looks & nothing's fixing it heading into week SIXTEEN now. I don't like being a negative guy but this is the way I look at it:
1) It's easier to win in the NFL now more than ever considering (as we saw in this very game) all you need is throw the ball up & you get a flag that gives you half the field's progress in one throw. Houston just took the divisional lead w/Brandon WEEDEN on the field.
2) The Panthers went from 1-15 to 11-5 in less than 2 years during free agency era. Let's just stop with the 'you don't wanna go back to the losing ways of the 80's,' okay? Murphy's not gonna let that happen, period.
3) When both Lombardi AND Wolf took over these teams, they immediately installed a winning mindset that did NOT accept losing NOR mediocrity. Wolf said that was the biggest change they had to make because guys were joking around after their 12th seasonal loss in locker rooms. Lombardi only lost ONE championship game to the Eagles & said it wouldn't be tolerated again. These guys have flipped to the other side of the coin w/the 'everything's great' blah, blah, blah as everyone outside of their circle sees MAJOR problems.
Winning this crappy division isn't proving anything except to those that dwell on the 80's losses. What matters is what you do postseason and like Nick Perry said above, this team is scary heading into the postseason for all the wrong reasons. Only team I can think of that scared me more was the 15-1 team that looked iffy all year long & flopped at home to the NYG in the first game of 2011's Divisional Round. That one my negativity was right on & now all we hear is how limp we came up when it counted which started the 'soft' talk that carried through '12 loss to SF, '13 loss to SF, and '14 collapse to Sea. Asking this team to put their balls on the table & prove it should not be negative because Lombardi & Wolf demanded it all the TIME. Step up or step out, isn't that supposedly the Thompson way? Where's the teeth when Jones keeps NOT getting open or Adams keeps dropping passes?
RCPackerFan
December 22, 2015 at 10:43 am
' Only team I can think of that scared me more was the 15-1 team that looked iffy all year long & flopped at home to the NYG in the first game of 2011's Divisional Round. '
Don't remember it being that way... Their defense was iffy, but their offense, especially their passing game was a juggernaut.
Packers dominated everyone that year. They averaged 35 points per game that year, while their opponents averaged 22 points per game that year.
A huge reason why they lost in that division round was due to Joe Philbin's sons unexpected death. The team came out emotionless that game, understandably so.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 11:50 am
You don't remember it being that way? Allow me to refresh your memory:
Week 1: NO-42-39
2: Car-30-23
3: Chi-20-17
4: Den-49-23*
5: Atl-25-14
6: StL-24-3*
7: Minn-33-27
9: SD-45-38
10: Minn-45-7*
11: TB-35-26
12: Det-27-15
13: NYG-38-35
14: Oak-46-16*
15: KC-14-19 LOSS
16: Chi-35-21
17: Det-45-41
There were 4 games they won by more than 12pts the entire year. If you go back to look at quotes from the defensive players & beat writers, as well the outcomes of the games themselves (they barely won in SD in the final seconds as SD was driving to win the game on an INT) each game was the defense barely surviving. They knew something was wrong.
I distinctly remember hearing the same #intedwetrust, 'look at the record,' 'we're awesome,' 'don't be so negative' BS when pointing out this team was headed for embarrassment. And the embarrassment came in their first playoff game at home as the Giants physically beat us up 37-20. How that embarrassment is any better than the ones of the 80's, I don't know.
To me, constantly seeing 15-1, 13-3, 12-4 and then getting manhandled in the 1st or 2nd game only adds fuel to the fire of the Vikings/Seahawks/Giants fans of the world that Green Bay is a paper champion from which we have no defense other than to point to 2010 which they then easily say is a fluke. Unless something changes, I'm starting to believe it was because if our record is indicative of how good this team is, we should be the Patriots of the NFC, shouldn't we?
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 12:21 pm
There is no team like you talk about. The Patriots have the greatest QB and greatest coach of all time and went 10 years without winning a super bowl. Your expectations are unreasonable. I am sure you would have been on "beanhead.tv" calling for changes in the Patriots after they blew 9 years in a row as well. The best you can wish for as a fan is having a good team with a chance once playoff time arrives. Because one and done playoffs are a crap shoot every time.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:26 pm
It's unreasonable for a team that goes 13-3 over a regular season to show that come playoff time? No, the Pats didn't win every year but did you notice how many times they were right there in AFC Championships? Minutes away from another one? And they WERE in 2 they lost to the Giants, btw. We have been to ONE since 1996. That's TWENTY years of not being there.
murphy
December 22, 2015 at 01:18 pm
Minutes away from another Super Bowl, you say? Doesn't sound familiar.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:49 pm
Have the Pats ever used those 'minutes' to have the greatest collapse in NFL history either? NO, don't think so. Try again.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 02:42 pm
I know that wasnt the greatest collapse in nfl history. You have mad cow disease.
Since'61
December 22, 2015 at 01:04 pm
Paul - The greatest of QB of all time is between John Unitas and Joe Montana. Brady is all time great but not GOAT. As for coaches, no one not even Belicheck is close to Lombardi. Without Brady, Belicheck is a below .500 coach. Lombardi never had a losing season. His name is on the trophy for excellence in an NFL season, that alone should tell you who is the greatest coach of all time. Lombardi defeated every great coach of his era. Halas, Shula, Landry, Paul Brown, and others. If he coached against Belechek he would beat him too. You can only make the comment you made about Belicheck because you never watched Lombardi's team play. Sorry for you. Get some DVDs of Lombardi's Packers and watch some real NFL football instead of today's over hyped arena, almost touch football. Thanks, Since '61
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 12:58 pm
That's right! And if I'm not mistaken McCarthy is considered the greatest Packers coach on the poll on this site. Absurd.
Since'61
December 22, 2015 at 01:05 pm
Absolutely Absurd. Thanks, Since '61
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 01:22 pm
Other than Lombardi you can't say any other HC is clearly better. McCarthy is in the discussion w/ Holmgren for #2 w/o question.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 01:48 pm
I would say that would be Lambeau.
John Galt III
December 22, 2015 at 02:32 pm
I've been a Packer fan since the late 1950's. Many here are so young they have no concept of Packer history, so they say stuff like MM is the 2nd best coach ever.
MM - (1) NFL championship
Curley Lambeau - (6) & 209 wins
Vince Lombardi - (5)
Lombardi was their best coach. Lambeau easily is 2nd.
I mean I know the government schools these days suck, but the math isn't that hard.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 03:20 pm
Now they do.
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 07:37 pm
Thats possible but none of us has seen him coach or can remember him coach.
murphy
December 22, 2015 at 01:22 pm
"The greatest of QB of all time is ..."
Since '61, I believe you meant to type "Bart Starr." Did you have a keyboard mishap?
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 01:24 pm
Cold Hard Football Facts has Starr #1 and they give a pretty convincing argument.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:48 pm
How you can say 4 Super Bowl wins, 6 appearances in them, & annually being in the running for another birth in the age of free agency does not equate to GOAT is beyond me. I can't speak for Unitas because skills-wise he was amazing but it was a different era. Montana's dominating teams stayed together for a decade because of no salary cap. Once the SC was instituted, we actually were able to compete against the Dallas/SF institutionalized domination and all of a sudden, the most money didn't keep the top talent together anymore & everyone had a shot.
And if you know as much about Lombardi as you claim you do (not disputing that btw), then you'd acknowledge the fact they put his name on the trophy because of what Lombardi did OUTSIDE THE LINES to turn the NFL into a national sport at the time. It had nothing to do w/his wins or losses. He helped eliminate color barriers. He helped put the freaking Super Bowl together for crying out loud. That's why his name's on it, not who he beat or how previous to that. He was near the end of his dominance when they won #2 for crying out loud.
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 02:46 pm
Lombardi is on the SB trophy specifically for what his teams accomplished on the field. Only team w/ 5 NFL Championships in a decade AND 3 consecutive. Anything Lombardi brought the NFL pales in comparison.
You need to get your history straight.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 03:06 pm
Just watch some film of Lombardi. He got the best out of every single player he coached. The guys would not be blowing assignments and not executing if he were coaching them. His teams were as close to perfect as can be. He has been studied by a ton of coaches since, and never will be duplicated.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 03:31 pm
"The guys would not be blowing assignments and not executing if he were coaching them."
That's for sure.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 09:50 pm
Now cowdouche is bashing Lombardi. Blasphemy! Troll of trolls.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 03:28 pm
And that is why I am a spoiled Packer fan. Lambeau won 3 in a row as well.
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 11:02 pm
I know this is sacrilege but his name is on the trophy because he died right after his reign of dominance. If he lived to be an old man of 90 there'd be a different name on the trophy. He was amazing and his record is top of the top but the way to be immortal is always to die early and when on top.
RCPackerFan
December 22, 2015 at 12:21 pm
I don't know what you want.
The Packers offense was great. the defense wasn't. That is ultimately what cost them.
Packers won the Super Bowl in 2010. They earned it. To say it was a fluke is a joke.
If your going to complain that they haven't wont the Super Bowl since, ok, fine, but there is only 1 team the can win the Super Bowl each year.
How many Super Bowls have the Vikings, Seahawks, Giants and Packers won since 2010?
The last Super Bowl winners
Patriots,
Seahawks,
Ravens,
Giants,
Packers.
By your logic, then the Giants, Ravens, Seahawks Super Bowl wins are a fluke?
We should be the Patriots of the NFC... I think we are. The ONLY 2 NFL teams that have been in the playoffs each of the last 7 years and Won A Super Bowl are the Packers and Patriots.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:32 pm
Seahawks have been in two w/one win & one that's debatable. Giants have won 2 since MM took over.
Reason I say ours was a fluke is because of the fact that we lost FIFTEEN players to IR that year. Give me a team ANYWHERE in history where that's happened, I'll wait..........
Since then, we've been pretty healthy with great regular season records and we constantly get excuses why we can't win at home against the Giants, why we can't defend the run in San Fran, why we can't handle the same San Fran team at home, and why we collapsed worse than ANY team in NFL HISTORY last January. All under the same coaching staff now that says 'We feel pretty good about the guys we have and there's only a little adjustment that's needed.' The Patriots do NOT put up with repetitive failure PERIOD. They go 12-4 and beat the snot out of teams like the Steelers, Colts, Ravens, and Jets come playoff time. We got beat by Colin Freaking Kaepernick 2 years in a row and he's about to be out of the league, man!
RCPackerFan
December 22, 2015 at 01:02 pm
Ok we were talking about since the Packers have won their last super bowl till the time MM and TT took over? Ok, how about since Wolf took over? How far back are we going to go. Maybe we should look back to when Lombardi was here....
So your saying our Superbowl was a fluke because we lost 15 players to IR, and still won the Superbowl?
I'm confused...
Packers last year lost to the Seahawks who went to the superbowl.
The year before that they lost the 49ers who lost to the Seahawks who won the super bowl.
The previous year the lost the the 49ers who went to the superbowl.
The year before that they lost to the Giants who won the superbowl.
3 of the last 4 years they lost to the team that went to the Super Bowl. Not like they lost to a team that got blown out.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:25 pm
I'm saying the Super Bowl was a fluke because nowhere does a team lose that many players and still win one. We had an amazing January/February stretch no one's seen since. It was LUCK, not skill. We're healthier (and supposedly BETTER) now that we were 5 years ago yet we can't beat Seattle or the 49ers, whose QB's about to be on the scrap heap? REALLY?
Okay, so let's take the postseason losses to those teams out of the equation then. How have we performed against those SAME teams in the regular season? How many times have we beat teams with winning records outside of our division other than that Patriots win last Dec at Lambeau? RARELY.
RCPackerFan
December 23, 2015 at 06:37 am
Winning the Super Bowl is not a fluke. They won it. This isn't the 90's when the same team makes it every year and wins it all.
I really don't get your arguments at all... Winning the Super Bowl 1 year is a fluke for the Packers, but not for the Giants, Steelers, Ravens, and whoever else has won it 1 year.
Tundraboy
December 23, 2015 at 08:33 am
Not a fluke. To win all those games on the road alone was s a tribute to that team and MM.
PaulRosik
December 23, 2015 at 03:04 pm
You can't live in that world where its either the Superbowl or the season was a failure. No one is happy when they lose. No one ever sits around singing inedwetrust or whatever nonsense you spout. Everyone wants the team to add new players that fill holes and make improvements. Everyone gets mad when a player we thought was going to be good underperforms and the same problem still exists. Everyone screams when they see poor playcalling or bad execution.
The difference is the rest of us actually enjoy it when the team wins. We actually smile and celebrate when a playoff bid is made and divisions are won. You don't. You don't care how many wins they have unless they win that game in February. You really should stop watching football until the Super Bowl because you really seem to hate it badly. You are not a Packer fan, you're an anti packer fan. You really seem to want the Packers to lose to prove your points. So if you don't enjoy any of this - you really should stop watching it.
murphy
December 22, 2015 at 01:27 pm
"one that's debatable. "
No. It isn't. I feel like I'm interacting with a Cow alt account.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:36 pm
You honestly believe that Carroll's stupid call DIDN'T cost them the game? I suppose you also think our playoff loss in the desert in '09 to these very Cardinals wasn't questionable due to the non-facemask call on the final play too? Or that the Fail Mary wasn't debatable? NFL games are decided by inches now and that inherently makes it debatable. Just like I hear from Dallas fans about 'The Catch' from last year's playoffs almost daily here in DFW. You can say 'it is what it is' but you can NOT say it isn't debatable the Seahawks should have won that game.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 09:52 pm
It took a lucky shit catch to get seachickens in scoring territory.
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 11:06 pm
But that argues against everything else you have been saying. This one is the correct take, It is a game of inches when dealing with two good teams playing a one and done game. But for you somehow it is understandable when the team you supposedly don't like loses that game by inches, and totally unforgivable and means the whole team should be exploded and when the team you supposedly like loses by those same inches.
barutanseijin
December 22, 2015 at 06:16 pm
The offence was pretty good in the regular season. Rodgers was out of this world. But Eli was better in that game.
Since'61
December 22, 2015 at 12:38 pm
Brewers by your own account the Packers won 6 games by 12 or more points in 2011. You left out #12 against Detroit which they won by 12 points and you left out #16 where they defeated the Bears by 14 points.
Also, why is 12 points the differentiator. Who cares how many points they win by as long as they win? You probably don't remember but I remember the Lombardi teams well and they won plenty of games by close scores. Also, Lombardi did not have to deal with free agency and salary caps. If he did he never would have been able to keep his team together. This is why you will never see another team with 10 -11 HOFs from the free agency era.
During the 2011 season many of the opponents points were scored during garbage time, therefore the scores look closer than some of the games actually were. Yes, the defense struggled but they also played soft during many of the blowout games.
As for being "paper champions"(whatever that means) Vikings fans have nothing to say since they are 0- for forever in Super Bowls or NFL championships. Seahawks, they have also won only one Super Bowl since the MM/TT era. And as for Giants fans, they have not made the playoffs for 4 consecutive seasons, talk about "paper champions". BTW, I live in the NYC area and I have never heard a Giant fan, a Jet fan, or an Eagles fan say that the Packers are "paper champions". If anything all of them tell me they wish they had Aaron Rodgers and before that Brett Favre. The Jets and Eagles fans also would do anything to have a team the made the play offs every season. I also know many Steelers, Cowboys, 49ers and Patriots fans and they all have complimentary comments about the Packers. Many Patriot fans expected the Packers to win last season's game against the Patriot's at Lambeau. As for being the Patriots of the NFC I prefer to think of the Patriots as the Packers of the AFC.
Do not take this to mean that I am satisfied making the playoffs and not winning more Super Bowls but it does mean that I am appreciative of the fact that we have a shot at the SB every season, rather than know before the season begins that we have no shot which is the case for about 20-22 of the teams in the league every season. Enjoy the ride while it lasts because it never lasts long enough. If you are negative now how are you going to feel when Rodgers is gone and we can't find another QB for 5 or 10 or 15 or 20 years or more. A positive attitude and a sense of humor will be all that's left. Thanks, Since '61
RCPackerFan
December 22, 2015 at 12:51 pm
Exactly Right Since '61
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:53 pm
I used to live in Albany and the Pats and Giants fans there annually said 'Green Bay will lose because they're soft' so I've got friends too. And it was really awesome coming to face them after the '07 Championship loss.
So, you're happy with winning regular season records and maybe having a shot at a deep playoff run if the cards fell right? You mention Lombardi. What would HE have said about the offense right now? Would James Jones be starting for him or sitting his ass on the bench? Would Adams be seeing the field over Abby? I HIGHLY doubt it based on the biography I read of the man 'When Pride Still Mattered.'
You're still living off the assumption it takes a guy like Favre or A-Rod to win a Super Bowl. Is Russell Wilson even CLOSE to those guys? How about Jake Delhomme who took Carolina to one? Is Eli Manning really better than his brother? Is Joe Flacco truly great? I'd say none of those guys is as great as Favre/A-Rod & all of them got their teams to the big one w/the right guys around them. You don't need that anymore to be 'right there' like you're describing so no, I'm not worried at all about the next Packer QB or having to wait 20yrs for one because we're never going to be as inept as Jacksonville, Cleveland, or others with Murphy or another hand like him at the helm. If you build a good team around a guy that doesn't make mistakes, you don't have to have Joe Namath leading your team anymore in the age of 'chuck it & wait for the flag' NFL.
Since'61
December 22, 2015 at 02:41 pm
I'm really not sure what you are saying any more because you are all over the map. OK, you read "When Pride Still Mattered", so did I. The difference is I actually watched Lombardi's teams rather than just read about them. Lombardi's '67 Packers offense had all kind of problems. Starr was hurt, Hornung and Taylor were gone, even their backup Elijah Pitts went down with an injury. Boyd Dowler (WR) played with injuries etc...
The team went into the playoffs with a 9-4-1 record and losing their last 2 games.
In the playoffs they demolished the 11-1-2 LA Rams 28-7, defeated the 12-2 Dallas Cowboys in the Ice Bowl and crushed the Raiders in SB 2 33-14 for Lombardi's final victory as Packers head coach. What did Lombardi do? he didn't change much but he had the best OL in the league and possibly in NFL history. To the point where castoffs like Chuck Mercein and Ben Wilson were successful running behind them. He had a QB who did not make mistakes with the football and he had the last hurrahs from one of the greatest NFL defenses of all time. The '67 Packers were no longer a great team but they know how to win and they made the plays and the stops when they had to. You say that he wouldn't start Jones or Adams well he started Mercein and Wilson, why, because he had no one else. I'm not living off the assumption that it takes a great QB to win I'm living off the assumption that good execution in all phases of the game wins games. Starr did not win any games by himself, certainly less so than Rodgers has done, but like Starr, Rodgers rarely hurts the team, therefore he keeps his team in the game. Then it becomes a matter of making key plays, especially third downs, both offensively and defensively.
As for Flacco and Delhomme are you saying that you would be satisfied with the records of their teams. If you're complaining about the Packers I could just imagine your posts about the Delhomme Panthers who were never heard from again until this season or the Ravens who also make the playoffs, until this year and get knocked out, except for one season. When you understand what you are watching come back and give me another try.
Thanks, Since '61
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 03:39 pm
You are a true Packer fan. At least one I relate to. I think we live in the same general area. We should watch a game together somewhere.
Since'61
December 23, 2015 at 08:55 am
Tundra - good idea, le's keep it in mind and we may be able to schedule something down the road. Always good to meet fellow Packer fans. Thanks, Since '61
John Galt III
December 22, 2015 at 02:51 pm
I agree with you. Here's a concrete example. You guys should have watched the Joe Theisman Redskins. Theisman was an good but not great ok QB.
The Redskins had the 'Hogs' one of the best OL's in NFL history, They also had Hall of Famer John Riggins who was the most punishing RB in my lifetime and that goes back to the 1950's. There were much faster and shiftier RB's than Riggins, but in the 4th Q no one wanted any part of him. The Redskins ran for 276 yards - 2nd all time. Theisman was 15 of 23 with 2TD's and 2 INT.
Virtually any NFL QB could have QB'd that team. You couldn't stop Riggins.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:33 pm
Okay, so they had 6 games that I'd consider blowouts (12pts or more). Way to make a point by pointing out something as minimal as 2 wins difference. The previous point was that that offense was SO awesome that year, totally denying that the defense stunk & was what caused the embarrassing playoff loss. THAT'S why how much we won by mattered. Problems under the surface folks like myself were shouted down for pointing out then and now the same's happening as we stay SO positive about 10 wins & maybe one playoff win AGAIN, '61.
And the points were NOT scored in garbage time. Go look at the SD game log. Every time we scored, the other team came RIGHT BACK.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 10:01 pm
That embarrassing playoff loss was filled with dropped passes and turnovers. The team played like shit. AR was the leading rusher at halftime, for both teams I think.
barutanseijin
December 22, 2015 at 06:02 pm
I recall three fumbles & one INT, Hakeem Nicks running wild, Packer receivers being meh, and Eli outplaying Rodgers. The Giants would have won anyway
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 11:13 am
I'm sold. Except for the Giants game you are right.
D Ernesto
December 22, 2015 at 09:40 am
First, why is this team scary going into the playoffs:
1. Two of 4 wide receivers are marginal at best.
2. Unlike any other team, you go a running back that you don't know from week to week which one is showing up.
3. You got a smallish by NFL standards, O line -Mike prefers the shorter armed guys for the running game, and now they are showing the wear and tear of the season and I see no real backup's giving them relief.
4. One of the only teams that rush more than four guys consistenly to get some semblence of a pass rush.
5. An ok but not solid linebacking core. Especially on the ends a real lack of closing speed.
With all this they won 10 games. Bravo for that.
Now the hard part comes, the good teams are next in line.
Ferrari Driver
December 22, 2015 at 09:51 am
The Packers organization amazes me.
The NFL has designed the annual draft to equalize the teams with the weakest (poorest record) getting to pick the "cream of the crop" from the college ranks.
When is the last time the Packers got to pick even in the top 5? Year after year they finish near the top of the league in performance (wins).
We have an excellent GM; the best in the NFL in my opinion. And...one of the best head coaches in the league.
I'm thankful that I don't have to look and the team and performance being offered to the fans of Jacksonville, Tampa Bay, and Cleveland year after year.
Yea, Packers: Management, coaches, and players.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 11:22 am
I'm sorry that's no consolation. They are the Green Bay Packers and they and we need to remember that. We were dreadful in the 50s,got high picks at the end, Hornung, Starr etc but it did not change until Lombardi reminded us of who we were and told us what we needed to be again.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 11:57 am
Exactly my point. If the Panthers can go from 1-15 to 11-5 & a Super Bowl birth in less than 2 years, the NFL isn't what it used to be and Murphy's never going to let us sink to the levels of the other teams mentioned. For crying out loud, look at the NFC South winners & how much that division changes horrid records with winning ones annually in total! Our organization has a history of excellence & it's getting annoying we roll through our horrid division & then can't stand up to teams that play with that swagger when it counts in postseason.
To those that say this is enough, I ask this: then why was Ray Rhodes dumped after one season at the helm? Was it truly better to watch Sherman guide the team to annual mediocrity than to man up & get a coach that instilled that confidence in excellence mentality instead? What separates McCarthy from being Sherman right now? Besides the one Super Bowl win, what exactly?
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 12:26 pm
One Super Bowl win. Yeah that does it.
I don't get why you don't see that that is the exact formula the Packers are going for. Win your division and see where you stand at the end of the year. it's the formula the Patriots use, win their terrible division every year and then see what happens in the craphsoot of the NFL playoffs.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:42 pm
The Patriots don't sit and wait for the playoffs, my friend. They play every game like it's a playoff game. Look at their regular season 'big games' results versus us. Denver? They were in that one until the end when injuries finally took their toll. They beat Pittsburgh, Jets, Colts, and Giants this year. If they have to play Cincy, do you have any doubt they'll destroy them? Do you think they won't be able to beat Denver again or annihilate Kansas City if they face them? And that's just this year. EVERY year they play UP to their competition.
We had 4 tough games on our schedule for 2015. So far, we're 1-2 in them w/the 4th this weekend & an offense STILL sputtering. Outside of beating Minnesota 3 times this season, who do you see us beating in the 2nd round much less passing the NFC Championship for a Super Bowl birth right now? Are you really going to blame all this on Jordy Nelson when we have a top defense at our disposal & have had 18 games or so to fix the passing problem?
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 10:06 pm
suck up
you suck
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 11:18 pm
Wrong. That is exactly what the Patriots do. It is a foregone conclusion every year that they will win their pathetic division. So the season is for tinkering and tweaking and getting ready for the post season. It is why they are such a conundrum for fantasy players, because each week a different player may be featured as they play with their scheme to see what they want to use once they have to start trying.
As for whats "wrong" this season I would go first to the offensive line. We thought this was the year there was finally no uncertainty on the line. We knew who the 5 starters were and the top reserves, But the season has been a mash unit of injuries and underperformance that have required massive scheme changes to compensate. Now the receivers are unsure, the QB is jittery and the backs are waiting for any place to run.
In a one game situation I always think the Packers have a chance to win. They don't have to beat Arizona or Carolina in a 7 game series. They have to win one game. it is a game of inches remember. On one day maybe a fumble, a deflected pass or a non deflected pass leads to a win.
I am disappointed in this offense. I was thinking record setting scoring before the season. But everything this team wanted to achieve is still out there because they are in the playoff tournament. Why you prefer to think the season is already over I am not sure. I guess if they do lose it is easier for you that way.
tobinrote
December 22, 2015 at 10:39 am
how could anyone expect AR to make those incredible throws he made look routine not regress to the mean eventually. he is not the same guy this year, but it has to be demoralizing to rarely see anyone open, then to have them drop the ball when they do get open, or else you get so amazed they are open you screw up the throw. this team is only in the playoffs because the entire league is pretty awful, and the game itself is just not what it used to be. I do not even like it when the pass interference calls go our way; it seems like cheating. time to install the college rule of you get 15 for PI or spot whichever is less. and then give spot greater than 15 only for flagrant, ya i know a judgment call but we can live with it..
Gianich
December 22, 2015 at 10:02 am
Mashed Potato Mike is too stubborn to actually put someone productive on the field that is not a veteran. Just as he waited to get Ryan on instead of Palmer, waited to put Hayward on bench in favor of Randall, waited 4 seasons too long to fire Slocum, he will wait 2 more weeks before everything we see in Abby producing more than Adams actually results in a decision for Abby to play more than Adams. When your team isn't scoring for entire halves of football at a time maybe its time to try something different and if that's more Abby so be it. You can't always #staythecourse, Tater! Get your head out of the Applebees menu and make something happen.
SpudRapids
December 22, 2015 at 10:27 am
Keep in mind we don't watch practice... if a guy like Jake Ryan misses assignments in practice why would they put him on the field? The media can't even watch most practices nor can any of us or the media sit in a film study and see if players know their assignments. I think it's completely unfair for us to assess personnel moves. For example, at the beginning of the season Hayward was probably more ready than Randall. Randall still had to learn the ebb and flow of an NFL season. That involves how to prepare via film study, recovery, etc... these are all things that rookies have no clue about coming in and may take part of the season for them to acquaint themselves. McCarthy has put the best talent on the field regardless of rookies.. e.g. Adams last year, Bahk two years ago, Hayward his rookie year, Daniels his rookie year.... I think we all forget that this team has gotten major contributions from rookies over the past few years, even more so than the average NFL team. We can't just assume by putting other players in production will change.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 11:30 am
Well put spud.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:07 pm
Then why aren't they following that rookie starting mentality w/Janis as we watch Jones week after week not able to gain separation without drawing flags? Or Adams dropping everything like a hot potato as a starter while Abby makes the 3-4 plays he gets on the field over him every time?
Even if what you're saying about preparation, route running etc. in practice is true, how HARD is it to go to Janis & say 'Get off the line & run 50yds toward that pylon there & catch the ball when I throw it to you?' Can Rodgers just not play backyard football like Favre could in that respect or something? Favre had far less talent at WR he made more out of than Rodgers has in 2015. Even if MM did that 3-4 plays a game & Janis catches HALF of them, it solves a LOT of our problems because the defense backs off when he's on the field, opening up the run & short passing game.
Fact is, this coaching staff isn't willing to truly shake things up beyond showing Eddie whose boss one week. If they truly followed that 'Whoever performs plays' mantra, Jones & Adams wouldn't be starting anymore PERIOD. If they did that in New England, they'd never see the field & guys like Denarious Moore would be starting. If Lacy was pulling this stuff there, he'd be getting benched for the newly signed Steven Jackson. We don't recognize serious problems until the offseason after another underperforming year & then they go 'yeah, guess we have a hole there.'
SpudRapids
December 22, 2015 at 10:33 am
"Get your head out of the Applebees menu and make something happen."
McCarthy can't suit up and catch Adams' 9 drops this season. Adams is dropping the ball at a rate of 11.5% when targeted. This season has come down to players not executing and the coaching staff can do everything in it's power to prepare players but if a guy doesn't catch the ball it doesn't mean anything. You can have the best play call in history but if a guy doesn't execute it gets blown up.
"it's always a bad play call when it doesn't work"
Also, can we agree that McCarthy has throw the kitchen sink at trying to get more out of the offense? I don't think he has been stubborn in the least.
Gianich
December 22, 2015 at 02:57 pm
Abby doesn't drop his targets at a rate of 11% Adams does. Abby doesn't run routes at 70% speed, Adams does. Adams ankle probably still isn't right and we see these things on TV so I'm guessing the coaches see them too. Why does the coaching staff bang their head against he wall hoping he comes around when the guy throwing the ball knows what needs to happen and so do the fans that watch the game? The rest of the team sees these things day in and day out too and mention it in press conferences. The answer is simple, "stay the course" of course. WTF did it take 3 weeks to get Quarless on the field when he's been medically cleared and practicing for 3 weeks at full speed??? "stay the course" that's why. They have not lost in that 3 week stretch but I guarantee that Mashed Potato Mike waits another 2-3 weeks before Quarless gets meaningful snaps due to some bullshit "system" and "process" that has to happen rather than just playing the healthy guy that has produced in the past. The rigidity is maddening to me and obviously the players too as it is starting to boil over in comments here and there when asked. Its really simple; If Rodgers says #84 needs to be on the field because he gets open and makes plays then GOSH DAMN IT MIKE YOU START THE M$%&ER FU%*ER NOW!
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 03:46 pm
Spot on. But I bet he plays Adams again Sunday because IDK. Warmer weather? . So I probably will be screaming at the TV this week. Hope not.
SpudRapids
December 22, 2015 at 10:33 am
"Get your head out of the Applebees menu and make something happen."
McCarthy can't suit up and catch Adams' 9 drops this season. Adams is dropping the ball at a rate of 11.5% when targeted. This season has come down to players not executing and the coaching staff can do everything in it's power to prepare players but if a guy doesn't catch the ball it doesn't mean anything. You can have the best play call in history but if a guy doesn't execute it gets blown up.
"it's always a bad play call when it doesn't work"
Also, can we agree that McCarthy has throw the kitchen sink at trying to get more out of the offense? I don't think he has been stubborn in the least.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 10:03 am
Pointing fingers or only highlighting the positive. I want to see a few examples of that without twisting words.
What goes on in the locker room and meetings is their business and im sure they aint playing poker and smoking cigars in there. They are trained to talk to the media these days. They know whats wrong and im sure they work hard at it. Can it be overcome? Watch and see.
Did anybody notice the pacheats lost 2 games without gronk? I didnt think it would be like this and its fortunate they have 10 wins. It could have been more. Mccarthy better whip out his bag of tricks this week.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:16 pm
Patriots didn't lose JUST Gronk. They also lost Edelman, Lewis, Blount, Amendola, Collins, and some OL. And yet, they keep winning almost even in Denver where we HAD a full team & were embarrassed.
Why do the Thompson backers constantly believe the best in a team that's shown over a DECADE now that they refuse to acknowledge major problems until far after the fact? Do you not remember how long it took to fill the run defense in the middle w/a DT? Or finally draft a safety high? Or a RB when Grant left? Or in 2015, get another ILB so Clay can go back to terrorizing QB's where he belongs instead of inside as Peppers gets older by the second? Or fix this WR problem by giving Janis a shot here or there? If we win the division and one playoff game only to get the chance to get trounced twice by the Cardinals this year after being 2min away from the SB last season, are you honestly going to consider that a success considering this defense IS championship level as a whole right now? I don't. I'd say they're getting closer to the proverbial 'fart in the wind' Wolf said his teams were if so.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 12:57 pm
Dude, dont get your undies in a bunch. You are type happy today. I appreciate facts, i really do but you missed the point. Rodgers lost his go to guy in nelson. When gronk was out they lost and all of a sudden nobody is talking brady mvp.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:14 pm
MY point was that Brady is still winning games with FAR more depleted resources than the Packers have against the SAME opponents. I don't care about MVP, dude. Rodgers should be able to throw the ball to more than just Jordy by this stage of his career. Did Favre get better or worse after he lost Sharpe? Or when he played with MULTIPLE nobodies at WR over the years? Stop making excuses for mediocre performance, you sound like a government employee.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 02:07 pm
I am talking about one go to guy not a roster. I hope you apoligize for being a self righteous ass or run out of breath. You made to much out of one sentence.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 10:14 pm
The Denver game was frustrating. The defense never laid a finger on Manning and he had his best game of the year. This game had to be kept low scoring to have a chance. Denvers defense is great.
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 11:28 pm
But they are 10 - 4 and in the playoffs and leading their division. Wait til they actually lose something to do the obit on the team.
The 2010 Packers were 8 - 6 and outside the playoffs before the run.
The 1996 Packers lost back to back games and needed a big pick 6 to avoid losing 3 straight when all their receivers got injured and the offense went into a funk.
A season ebbs and lows. Wait to see where this one ends before saying it is a lost cause.
Charvid
December 22, 2015 at 10:33 am
Cory-
"But enough with the negativity"...then 2 lines later,
"If that isn't code for wimming ugly, I don't know what is."
Cmon, if you say enough negativity, mean it. Has this been the season I envisioned?? He'll no. But we just took a long road trip into a tough place to play, against an up and coming opponent. We won by 10 points and now have a better record than all but what--4 teams??
We are spoiled beyond belief and negative article like this don't help. Every single team in the league has warts--every one. We are no different. However, there is a LOT to like about this team. It isn't necessarily what I thought was going to be, but it's there. Maybe you could focus on something positive when you say, "but enough negativity".
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 11:37 am
Im not a fan of corys writing. Last weeks article wasnt bad but the few before that were in the bottom of the barrel for sure. I like facts not speculation. The fact is this team is 10-4 and waits to turn it on in the 4th quarter.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:17 pm
'Waits to turn it on?' Is that what you call hoping for the Raiders to self-destruct via penalty after penalty as we pray Jones doesn't get another push off himself?
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 01:02 pm
Look at the stats by quarter and shut your pie hole. Someone here just wrote an article on it. Not sure but you can look back if you want.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:12 pm
'Shut your pie hole?' Way to prove your point, man. So, the Packers really AREN'T struggling, they're just lulling the opponent into a false sense of security before turning it on now? Well THAT makes sense.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 03:13 pm
LOL, pie hole always cracks me up. Used to hear that a lot as a kid.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 03:41 pm
I dont know where this guy came from but i think was has been day drinking or he has mad cow disease for cowpiehole.
Dr.Rodgers
December 22, 2015 at 05:14 pm
It's obvious you've been riding the short bus to adult daycare. That is, if you're an adult.
RCPackerFan
December 22, 2015 at 03:41 pm
I have written some facts on their 4th Quarter. They have outscored their opponents 110-48 in the 4th Quarter. They have only been outscored 1 time in the 4th Quarter this year..
That is impressive.
Good Teams find ways to win. 4th Quarter is when teams win games. Packers have proven all year to be a good 4th Quarter team...
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 05:55 pm
Thank you rc. I think we have a major troll infestation here. Its getting bad. How many of those points are prevent defense points and how many were comback or seal the coffin points?
RCPackerFan
December 23, 2015 at 06:52 am
The only games that you could really say are prevent points was 15 against the Panthers and the 13 against the Lions in the first game. They could have had more had Rodgers seen Cobb Wide open to tie the game up against the Panthers.
Both of those games they lost.
A good example of sealing the coffin points was the Cowboys game. Going into the 4th Quarter they were up 14-7. They scored 14 points in the 4th Quarter and didn't allow the Cowboys to score.
Oakland they were up 24-20 going into the 4th. Scored 6 and held the Raiders scoreless in the 4th.
A great comeback win was against the Lions (2nd game), They were trailing 20-14 going into the 4th. They scored 17 and the Lions scored 3 in the 4th.
Another great 4th Quarter was earlier in the year against the Seahawks. They were trailing going into the 4th quarter. 17-16. They scored 11 held the Seahawks to 0 and finished the game 27-17.
Their only game they allowed a team to outscore them in the 4th quarter was against the Chiefs. They allowed them to score 14 points while only scoring 7. That game however was a bit of a blowout. They were up 31-14 going into the 4th quarter.
At the end of the day looking at the big picture, they have been playing their best ball in the 4th quarter. That is the makings of a good team.
ray nichkee
December 23, 2015 at 10:00 am
Thanks and well put. I am a facts guy and i agree. All i have for internet is my phone and it would take me forever to look that stuff up so thanks again. The only really bad loss was denver. Just losing inside the division is bad too i guess. I think i boils down to adjustments. They need to be quicker on both sides of the ball. Teams will score points on any defense. The pack needs to come out of the tunnel in the second half playing like they do in the 4th quarter. Is it stubbornness that keeps that from happening?
Charvid
December 22, 2015 at 12:16 pm
We'll see in the playoffs, won't we?
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:22 pm
Yes, we will. And when we get manhandled AGAIN by one of those aforementioned teams just like we did against the 'Niners/Seahawks the last few years, what will your 'positive' take be then? The typical 'At least we were there' #intedwetrust reaction?
Corey's standing on a streetcorner shouting out the end of the Packers' season is nigh if they don't wake up right NOW to fix the issues & the #intedwetrust crowd's telling him to shut up about it. But do they ever say 'you were right' in January when we're home? Nope. Just roll with the same #keepthefaith mantra of the last 5 years since we made the big game miraculously complaining because we have nothing 'positive' to contribute.
In my book, the Packers equate to excellence. This regime has not portrayed that outside of the division. That's the facts, not negativity speaking.
Charvid
December 22, 2015 at 12:45 pm
This regime has not portrayed excellence?? Are you shitting me??? A super bowl...7 straight playoffs...NFCC last year?? My God, it must be be hard for you to be a fan. Only one team wins it each year. The Packers may just not have the talent this year, but they've put a quality team on the field for quite a while. If you can't enjoy the run they've been on, why be a fan??
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 12:55 pm
So, winning games against bad opponents while coming up short when it matters is excellence to you? All right, good-bye. I suppose you think Sherman was a great coach too, eh?
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 01:04 pm
Im thinking your frustration belongs on a brewers site.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:10 pm
Did you also happen to believe Marty Schottenheimer or Norv Turner were great head coaches? Because they got fired for FAR less in various situations than you're defending McCarthy's crew for here. I daresay Schott would at least get this team to run through a wall for him which is more than I can say for Mike right now if McGinn's right.
Since'61
December 22, 2015 at 02:45 pm
Do the Brewers still have a team and if yes, what league are they in because they are not in either of the MLB leagues. Thanks, Since '61
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 02:37 pm
Sherman was given the keys to a Porshe and turned in a Pacer. So no Sherman most certainly does not qualify. Holmgren and McCarthy are sustaining success. You're completely irrational if you don't or won't accept 7 straight playoff appearances and a SB trophy, as success!!
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 01:06 pm
"In my book, the Packers equate to excellence. This regime has not portrayed that outside of the division. That's the facts, not negativity speaking."
Could not have said it any better. We are somewhat spoiled but not because of our success over the last 20 or so years. It's because of this teams history and of course Lombardi's legacy. Would not have it any other way.
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 02:22 pm
The FACTS are this regime is every bit as successful as the Wolf/Holmgren one. You don't know or appreciate that it is! That's on you.
AZPack
December 22, 2015 at 01:28 pm
Well the Packers BEAT Seattle and were one play against Carolina. I guess that puts the Packers right in the discussion w/ those teams!
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:39 pm
You honestly wanna play Seattle again given where they are now & where we are? They would SMOKE us right now. And I guess you're forgetting in Carolina how far down we were until they basically went into prevent mode? That's like saying the Giants were winning handily Sunday when they were down 35-7.
murphy
December 22, 2015 at 01:43 pm
You need to switch to decaf, bruh.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 03:22 pm
cowdouche
Patriots=cheaters
cardinals=old frail QB.
Seahawks=arrogant dopers
Panthers=playing in one piss poor div. showboat QB who will get his shots.
Dr.Rodgers
December 22, 2015 at 05:19 pm
Packers = Always feel Entitled because Lombardi
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 05:58 pm
Trolls=its obvious
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 10:59 am
Yes we still have enough talent to make a run if we use it right but that means lots of screens, play action and Lacy not lined up 8 yards back and of course O line has to hold up. Lot to ask for but I gotta think coaches know it. If not no hope. Vanilla will not do and especially in red zone. No FGs when we are on the 5 or closer.
Since'61
December 22, 2015 at 11:06 am
There are several possibilities for the less than expected offensive results this season;
Let's start with the OL. We know they have been beat up and playing through various injuries. As a result they have not been as consistent as they have been in the past especially when compared with last season. However, they have played better in the last 2 games. As an example, Bulaga did a great job against K. Mack except for one play in the Oakland game. They do have an ongoing issue in terms of being effective in short yardage and goal line situations. This might be mitigated by bringing in a tackle eligible (Walker) and utilizing a lead blocking back.
Moving to the RB's - Lacy has either been good or terrible with no in between. He needs to run like he did in the Dallas game on every play. Starks needs to get better with ball security. Crockett should be used from time to time as a change of pace back. Bottom line here is that Lacy needs to better utilized and he needs to be consistent.
Receiving Corps - this is where I believe the majority of our offensive problems exist. No Jordy, OK get over it. Cobb playing through injuries but getting better, not a #1 receiver. James Jones has his moments but is too slow to win one on ones consistently. Our young receivers have not met expectations. Adams has not been reliable at all. Janis great Special Teamer, not much of a WR (at least not yet, maybe never). R. Rodgers, good hands, no speed, has not made the hoped for second year leap. Quarless, another #2 TE, is returning and could add some speed at TE but he is not an impact player either. Abby, could be a difference maker, needs to get more snaps and targets. I would start him over Adams going forward. Nothing to lose by doing so. Ty Montgomery, was our best hope for the passing until he went to IR. Don't see any help arriving for the playoffs.
Finally QB, Aaron Rodgers. He has been off somewhat this season and has played through some injuries and may be continuing to do so. In spite of the all the issues I have covered above he still thrown only 6 interceptions through 14 game and 4 of them were not his fault. Without any real receiving threats, especially deep, defenses have been able to focus on stopping Lacy and the run game first, then they keep Rodgers in the pocket and stuff our receivers at the LOS, leaving Rodgers no where to throw and often no where to run. Therefore, Rodger has been throwing the ball out of bounds quickly before taking a sack or another hit or forcing a pass into coverage (until the pick late in the Raider game). As for his alleged emotional state (waving arms, pointing at receivers, signaling for flags, etc...) that is Rodgers the competitor. He is demanding excellence from his receivers and he is trying to get an edge with the officials, if not on the current play, maybe on the next one. I'm not that concerned with Rodgers yet because he is still making good decisions with the football, (except for that poor throw against the Raiders), and he is not hurting the team.
What does it all mean for the playoffs. I think everything is fixable, except for the receiving corps. We cannot give them an injection of talent. It is what it is and they need to raise their level of play. Lacy needs to be more aggressive which we have seen him do before. The OL needs to be healthy, the defense needs to maintain its level of play and Rodgers needs to put this team on his back again. It's not one issue, it's a combination of everything. But the Packers have found a way to win 10 games and make the playoffs again. Keep the games close and make enough big plays to win. Maybe that's the formula this season. Go Pack Go! Thanks, Since '61
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 11:32 am
Very rational post and reasonable plan. Let's hope they can bring it together.
Flow49
December 22, 2015 at 12:58 pm
I think quarless may make the biggest impact in the run game. He can block which adds much needed help for the run game which could make him a key cog in a more consistent run game. One can only hope. Running game doesn't have to be great, just consistent and we could see the passing game get better. Maybe not what we're used to but better than we've seen
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:08 pm
Okay, let's take it point by point:
1) OL-they haven't been playing up to their potential and that could be mitigated by using a FB as lead blocker. Then why hasn't the guy now calling the plays made that changed or kicked them in the ASS to play UP to their potential?
2) Running game-see kick in the ass mentioned above for TT/MM draft picks THEY insisted were great. We know Lacy's great w/the lead blocker & 20+ carries yet MM REFUSES to call those plays, why?
3) Receiving-all of what you mention here comes from TT/MM believing in Adams/Jones when we have about 17 weeks of data to see it's not happening. Yet no personnel changes, not even signing the free agents they've brought in, no practice squad elevations to see what else they have. Most importantly, no SCHEME changes such as shorter routes or introducing Janis even as a decoy threat or Abby full time. #intedwetrust, right?
4) Rodgers-I have no answer as to what's up with him so I'm not going to make guesses. Bottom line is, he's trying to make plays based on the ones called & the guys not running the right routes IN them so I don't fault him much.
You're right, all of this is fixable. If we didn't have a coaching staff playing 'Everything is Awesome' in their heads all the time. MM needs to find a way to motivate them, bench them, or change the called plays to fix the issues. He's shown NONE of that in 17 or so weeks now since Jordy's injury. I honestly think based on the reports from McGinn identifying a rift between him & Rodgers that he may be losing this team.
Since'61
December 22, 2015 at 07:24 pm
As for personnel changes who would you suggest that TT sign or should have signed even 4-6 weeks ago as an WR.
They are playing the players they have. The reality is that after Cobb the receiving corps is not that good. I think that we will see more of Abby as we go forward. Since Janis can't catch he is useless as a decoy, save his legs for the STs.
I don't know if there is a rift between MM and Rodgers but I do know McGinn is trying to sell newspapers so who knows the veracity of his rumors.
I thought MM changed it up for the Dallas game. In Oakland they didn't execute well but they still won. It's on the road and in the rain, I'll take it. Go Pack Go! Thanks, Since '61
lou
December 22, 2015 at 11:47 am
Any resemblance of the Offense the prior 3 years and this team has to be a favorite to go all the way. The Defense is 5th in scoring and the Special Teams have been consistently good in all phases. Unlike last year Rodgers is healthy going into the playoffs and with the prior years Offensive performance levels the Packers would bring home their 14th Lombardi Trophy. No one has a clue why the Offense is what it is.
TarynsEyes
December 22, 2015 at 12:05 pm
The Packers used to be the painting, even with a flaw, one that you couldn't help but anticipate looking at again.
Now it has become closer to the one you put in the attic and look at with memory of good old days eyes.
There are paintings that somehow command respect, though one may not understand what it is they're looking at, these same paintings are the one's most at the auction house sale want to see and put their money on.
Everyone should be happy that the opportunity to be a painting in the auction has been achieved and the anything is possible is in play. However,this Packer painting needs some air brushing to cover the flaws to an acceptable and purchasable level and there are two weeks left to do so or the NOT GOOD ENOUGH sign will be placed across its frame.
Right now the Packers are closer to the painting of the dogs playing cards than the over lapping collage of Picasso.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 12:22 pm
The painting of the dogs playing poker is better than any picasso in my opinion. Im sure world wide most will disagree but i think most football fans would choose the poker dogs hanging in their den as they drink beer and watch football and yell at the tv.
TarynsEyes
December 22, 2015 at 12:35 pm
Woof...Woof...right on cue and expected choice of painting. :)
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 01:14 pm
Picasso or poker dogs? I want to see a vote.
By the way taryn, i saw no hate in my reply as you say i do. Its a matter of personal preference and i dont think your reply was meant in good fun. Now i can tell you your painting metafor was on the bottom of the scale.
brewers_rule
December 22, 2015 at 01:28 pm
Paintings aside, I think you're looking at a house on fire saying 'Have a beer & a seat on the couch with me. The roof's in great condition & that's all that matters. We've still got 3 of the 4 walls around us.'
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 02:18 pm
10-4, the house is on fire. That was worse than taryns metafor. All this nonsense coming from a guy whos name is brewers rule. You can apply all that shit you spewed today to the brewers and all will agree with you. I hope you take that as a hint and go over there.
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 11:30 pm
Whats on fire? playoffs already made and leading the division . I think you're jumping out of an airplane that's still running.
barutanseijin
December 22, 2015 at 07:27 pm
To me, the 2015 team has a Shermie years vibe but your metaphor is more imaginative and makes for better reading.
Since'61
December 23, 2015 at 08:30 am
Taryn - brilliant comment as usual. However, appearances can be deceiving and as you know things can change quickly in the NFL. Even our view or understanding of a painting can change over time. Right now I would say the NFL does not have any paintings that would qualify as a Picasso, most aren't even as good as the Dogs Playing Poker. Season's not over, let's just say the Packers are a work in progress and time will tell. Thanks, Since '61
Lphill
December 22, 2015 at 01:27 pm
Not easy winning 10 games in the NFL , and the Packers can finish 12 and 4 , I think we see a good game against the Cards , will be ideal field conditions , no wet balls like the past 2 games , this is a plus for the Packers because the Cards are used to good weather conditions. I firmly believe the Packers win if they execute and play mistake free.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 02:37 pm
Yes I'm hoping that takes care of the drops
least.
PETER MAIZ
December 22, 2015 at 04:40 pm
There are rumors that there is friction between Rodgers and McCarthy because McCarthy threw Clemens under the bus. Apparently, Rodgers and Clemens have always been really tight.
PETER MAIZ
December 22, 2015 at 04:40 pm
There are rumors that there is friction between Rodgers and McCarthy because McCarthy threw Clemens under the bus. Apparently, Rodgers and Clemens have always been really tight.
Roadrunner23
December 22, 2015 at 05:28 pm
Indeed this season has been a strange ride, Aaron Rodgers, last years MVP with a QB rating of under 100 for the past eight games, that is rather Munn-dane don't you think? Something is going on behind the scenes but wont come out until seasons end, is Rodgers unhappy in Green Bay? Does he want to relocate to Hollywood?
I have watched many lesser Quarterbacks throwing to lesser receivers and seemingly have no problem completing passes on a regular basis. Third and short?
Come on now is it really that hard? This offense is suffering with a bad case of the "Yips" and they lack confidence. The "lack of confidence" factor should not be underestimated, it is contagious and so is winning.
The Packers at the moment are doing just enough to be 10 & 4 and in the playoffs with two games to go. Hopefully after 3 victories in a row the Packers are on the verge of getting red hot just in time for the playoffs! Or not.
This has been a mystery indeed, alas, me being the optimistic mystic that I am I predict that Big Mike being the stern Captain he is will sail this ship sail deep into the playoffs and beyond.......
Merry Christmas and go Pack!!
NostraDANus
Dr.Rodgers
December 22, 2015 at 05:42 pm
Hoping you're right! Go Pack Go!!!
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 06:44 pm
So is Cow Trumps Cow's alter ego???
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 07:29 pm
Which one? This troll is more dedicated to talking trash than conversing with others. Cow swoops in and leaves, brewers rule comes in with three pages of bullshit and disappears, and then cow comes back with his supertroll shadowing him. He must have an amazing life. Cow you are a winner. You are so right it should be on a bill board.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 07:55 pm
Thanks for answer, I think. Cow Trumps, Cow, twins, the list goes on.
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 08:42 pm
Do not confuse twins, trumps, etc in this category. You may not like him, his opinions, or his approach but hes not here to heckle the true fans like most. He usually doesnt fill up a post with 53 arguments proclaiming hes right and will not back down with clear evidence in front of him claiming he is a personal trainer. trumps and i went at it for a month or so before i realized whats up.
He does an amazing job, and i mean an amazing job such as a wonderful person like myself would do. I cant imagine how much hillarys trolls will be able to access cheeshead tv and deficate on real people if she is in office.
Just my impersonation. I hope everybody likes it or at least understands, except for the trolls, they are the best trolls I've come across. They have passion. They have fight. Most of all the have courage because they are american and america is free!
ray nichkee
December 22, 2015 at 08:51 pm
Umm, you have 8,900+ dislikes and counting. You have no idea? What about the other names you use. Find a queen willing to go down in your moms basement to milk your udder.
4thand1
December 22, 2015 at 10:26 pm
"I never talk trash" Another whopper cowdouche. You've been talking trash about the Packers since you been posting here. You're a liar and a welcher.
you suck.
PaulRosik
December 22, 2015 at 11:36 pm
People don't like you because you hate the Packers so so so much and yet talk about them endlessly in a board for their fans. You live in total dread of if the Packers win. The Packers go 6 - 0 and you are never seen or heard. They lose a few and up you pop to call for everyone's head and to say how much everyone sucks. You only like it if the Packers lose. If the Packers would win the Super Bowl you would not know how to handle it. You don't enjoy wins, You only enjoy when there's something to bitch about.
Tundraboy
December 22, 2015 at 09:07 pm
Sorry I asked.
[email protected]
December 22, 2015 at 10:20 pm
It's not the despair. I can take the despair. It's the hope I can't stand...
hybridauth_Facebook_100004084225446
December 23, 2015 at 12:22 pm
Aaron Nagler please pic the Cards this week ???????