Hello Wisconsin: Taking On the Boogeyman
It's a familiar playoff foe for the Packers this weekend, but they've still got the house's money.
By TimBackes
Holy moly, the Packers are moving on to round two!
I’ll ruminate more on the victory over the Cowboys in a bit, but we’re just two days away from the next action for the 2023 Green Bay Packers, and the team is officially farther than I expected them to get in my wildest dreams. I thought before the season a wild card berth was possible, but certainly never expected them to be one of the final eight teams remaining.
And now, it’s on to San Francisco (er, Santa Clara) to face a 49ers team that has been the Packers’ boogeyman for more than a decade now.
The role reversal from the 90s has been well covered at this point. What was once a lopsided playoff rivalry in the Packers’ favor has turned the other way. Now the 49ers lead the postseason series 5-4, having won five of the last six matchups, including the last four straight. And when the two teams meet on Saturday evening, their 10th postseason matchup will set a record for the most playoff meetings in NFL history.
The Packers opened as approximately 10-point underdogs, which is to be expected. They’re the first seventh seed to ever win a playoff game, and they’re facing perhaps the best team in the NFL, one that has been a regular juggernaut in the NFC for some time now.
Not only that, but they’re on the road on a short week, with the 49ers coming off a week of rest. There is the possibility of some rain in the forecast, which could make matters more difficult for a team that figures to want to put the ball in the air.
There is no denying that the Packers face a difficult path to an NFC Championship berth. But this team has shown that they are capable of winning (and losing) to any team in any given week.
Lately it is seen as a given that Jordan Love is going to play great football and spread the ball around to a variety of different receivers. I’ll assume that’s going to happen this weekend.
But beyond that, if the Packers are going to take down the 49ers, here’s what’s going to need to happen for them to be able to do it.
- Another big game from Aaron Jones: It’s no coincidence at all that the Packers offense has been humming since a healthy Aaron Jones returned to the lineup. He’s over 100 yards in four consecutive weeks, and the offense simply looks like a completely different animal with him out there. If Jones is able to get his yards in again (even if it’s not over 100), the Packers are going to be in a good spot. They’re 18-1 all time when he touches the ball at least 20 times.
- Limiting Christian McCaffrey: Look, it’s not a state secret that Christian McCaffrey is the most valuable player the 49ers have. He’s going to get his touches, he’s going to get his yards. But as long as he’s not allowed to dictate the game, the Packers have a chance. Do I trust Joe Barry to put together a game plan to keep McCaffrey limited? No, not particularly, but it’s going to be a crucial part of winning this game.
- No turnovers: The Packers have to play nearly mistake-free football to win this game. They’ve been doing very well with avoiding turnovers over the last couple months, and that’s going to have to continue. You can’t spot a team like San Francisco additional opportunities to score.
- Ball control: This goes along with Aaron Jones needing another good day. The Packers need to keep their defense off the field (even more than they need to keep the 49ers offense off the field). Not only is their defense at a huge disadvantage because, well, it’s the Packers’ defense, but they also played like 90 snaps of football against Dallas. That can take a toll. Ball control is always a key to victory, but it is especially important this weekend for Green Bay.
- Jaire Alexander on the field for most of the game: Having Jaire Alexander makes a huge difference in the secondary. The Packers need him healthy enough to play and possibly make a difference, so hopefully that ankle is doing okay. His presence puts a little less pressure on the pass rush to get home. And yes, the pass rush does need to get home, but by having your best player in the secondary on the field, it’s not necessarily going to be a “get pressure or get torched” situation.
- Aggressive attitude: The Packers came out of the tunnel ready to make a statement in Dallas. Goodness knows they have plenty of motivation to do so this weekend as well. Once again no one is giving them a chance. For Matt LaFleur, he’s been taken to the woodshed by good buddy Kyle Shanahan in the playoffs twice now, not even counting their regular season meetings. The team needs to lean into their youthful energy and come out loose and ready to play an emotional football game.
- One takeaway, four stops: If the Packers can get one takeaway and four defensive drives that end in stops, I think they win the football game. That may be asking for a lot given the Packers’ defense and what the 49ers are capable of on offense, but that would give them a big potential advantage given how strong their offense has been of late, even against a couple tough defenses.
This is just a short list, too. It’s a tall order to take down the presumed favorite in the conference, but it can be done. The Packers are going to have to come out focused, motivated, and ready to go.
If they can pull off the upset here, there’s suddenly a very legitimate chance that this team, in what was supposed to be a rebuilding year, after playing some horrendously awful football in October, could make an appearance in a Super Bowl.
Wisconsin Beer of the Week
In my last visit to Woodman’s liquor store section, I was looking for some beers from Wisconsin breweries I do not frequently patronize. I came across a selection of beers from One Barrel Brewing Company, a small brewery based in Madison, Wisconsin, and have to admit that I was mostly attracted by the can designs. They had a number that were pretty humorous, and so I took a closer look, and the beers themselves actually sounded quite appealing as well.
The one I ended up picking out was Door County Trolly Red Cherry Lager. Here’s the description from the brewery:
“Brewed each summer as a nod to our friends who run the iconic Door County Trolley around Wisconsin’s finest peninsula. This mellow lager features additions of high-quality dark cherry juice, giving a gorgeous deep ruby hue and a lovely cherry flavor without cloying sweetness. Available all over the state in limited supply each Summer.”
Well, obviously it’s not currently summer, but there were a few six packs stashed on the shelves at Woodman’s, so I figured I’d give it a shot, and I”m glad I did–it’s good stuff!
The beer comes in at 4.8% ABV and is a smooth and easy drinker. While it is brewed with cherries, it tastes more like a red ale than a fruited beer. There is a hint of tart sweetness that you would expect of something with cherries in it, but it’s certainly not overpowering, and it adds to the beer rather than defining the beer, if that makes sense.
I haven’t had much other stuff from One Barrel before, but it seems to be becoming more readily available in my area and I have liked what I’ve had, so I’ll have to keep an eye out for more. If you’re in the Madison area, be sure to give them your support! We love our small breweries.
Top Moments of Packers/Cowboys Ass Kicking
HOW BOUT DEM COWBOYS?
I must say, while I predicted the Packers to win, I did not expect them to come out and absolutely destroy Dallas like they did. That’s the biggest ass kicking the Packers have handed out in a playoff game since the beatdown in Atlanta in the 2010-2011 playoffs, when they came in as the lowest seed and just obliterated the top-ranked Falcons.
It was an incredible evening of football, and once again a brilliant performance by Jordan Love, who would have had a perfect rating if not for having to go back into the game and throw one (incomplete) pass when Joe Barry’s prevent defense made things just a little too interesting.
Here are some of my favorite moments from the evening:
- Jordan Love’s finest football play yet: It wasn’t Jordan Love’s most eye popping throw or even the most important play he’s made as a starting quarterback. But his touchdown pass to Dontayvion Wicks in the second quarter showed just how far he’s come as a field general. Before the play, he noticed the Cowboys showing signs of blitz and called an audible. He did this while the clock was winding down, and still got the snap off in time. With the pass rush coming in his face and knowing he was going to be hit, he delivered a perfect touchdown strike to Wicks behind the Dallas secondary in the middle of the field. That showed the maturation Love has undergone throughout the course of this year, and was just one of many examples of him having turned into a seemingly unflappable quarterback.
- Shades of Tramon Williams: I know I’m far from the only person to make this connection, but it was hard not to see Tramon Williams streaking down the sideline in Atlanta when Darnell Savage picked off Dak Prescott and took it to the house late in the first half. When that happened, I finally felt comfortable in the idea that the Packers really were going to win this one, and win big.
- Musgrave wide open: I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a player as wide open as Luke Musgrave was on his deep touchdown in the second half. There wasn’t a player within visibility on the game camera, and when you catch the all-22 footage, the closest player is 15 or 20 yards away at the time Love lets go of the ball. Great play design by Matt LaFleur, but also a HUGE botched coverage by the Cowboys.
- The brothers rooting for different teams: The FOX cameras catching those two little boys wearing different jerseys (one Packers, one Cowboys) and having COMPLETELY different reactions… that was so perfect.
- Greg Olsen referencing the turkey leg snub: At one point in the game, the announcers were talking about how the Thanksgiving Day game against the Lions seemed to be the turning point for the Packers. Greg Olsen then made a joke saying that their snub of Love and the missing turkey leg giveaway could have been his driving motivation on this all pro stretch he’s on. It was hilarious to hear this actually come out of Olsen’s mouth, given it’s something many of us fans have been joking about for weeks now.
- Jerry Jones getting mad: Who doesn’t love a good box suite shot of Jerry Jones looking murderous? I really don’t find very many reasons to hate or even dislike the Cowboys these days, but as long as Jerry Jones is alive and is the owner of this football team, it’s impossible not to get some schadenfreude out of seeing them underperform. The man sold his soul for three Super Bowls in the 90s, and now we all get to collectively laugh at him every time the Cowboys flame out of the postseason.
- Everything Aaron Jones: As I said on Twitter a few weeks ago, it feels like Aaron Jones has entered the Donald Driver tier of universally beloved longtime Packers. Seriously, how could anyone NOT love this guy? Here’s to hoping he’s back in the green and gold next year and ultimately retires a Packer. He’s shown no signs of slowing down, and is the lifeblood of this Packer team, both in terms of his offensive contributions and in his leadership.
- Keeping homefield advantage: The Packers remain undefeated all time when playing at AT&T Stadium. Very nice of the Cowboys to allow the Packers to maintain the advantage of playing in their second home.
Around the NFC North
As always, it’s time to go around the NFC North.
- The CHICAGO BEARS indeed seem to be sticking with head coach Matt Eberflus, despite there being one of the best markets for high-quality coaches in memory. With Caleb Williams having officially declared for the draft, the Bears now also must choose whether they will draft Williams, stick with Justin Fields, or both. The Bears have made a habit out of drafting a quarterback only to fire their coach a year later, thus destroying the quarterback’s early continuity and confidence and starting the pattern over a couple years later. Perhaps that cycle will continue with Williams.
- The DETROIT LIONS won their first playoff game in more than 30 years and got to do it in front of their hometown crowd. It was pretty impressive seeing the way the Ford Field audience responded to their team, and now they get another playoff game this weekend. But it was also really disappointing to see Lions fans booing Matthew Stafford and, even weirder, his family. Stafford gave everything he had physically and emotionally to that city for over a decade, the team mutually agrees to find a trade partner, and that’s how Lions fans repay him? Just really sad, pathetic stuff from that fanbase.
- The MINNESOTA VIKINGS have been pretty quiet since their season ended. There are no major coaching changes that will happen, no major front office adjustments. The biggest decisions will come later in the offseason, specifically with regard to the quarterback position. But it’s hard to imagine the team is watching these playoffs and thinking they can tread water at quarterback. Either they bring back Cousins or they’re going to have to make a big move to move up the draft board.
THIS or THAT in Mr. Backes’s room: Week 20 Update
As I’ve done the last several weeks, I’m going to give a quick update as to the latest THIS or THAT polls in my classroom. With a couple snow days and MLK day, it’s a light selection this week.
Without further ado:
- Sleeping with no socks defeated the sickos who like sleeping with socks
- Playoff football defeated playoff baseball
If you have additional THIS or THAT prompts you’d like to poll my high schoolers with, give your ideas in the comments! I’ve pulled a few from the comments so far.
Predictions for Packers vs. 49ers and the Divisional Round
It’s the best weekend in football, and I’m very excited to see what happens in these games this weekend. I’m particularly looking forward to BIlls/Chiefs in Buffalo, a matchup that has turned into quite a rivalry over the last several years.
When it comes to the Packers, I’m just looking forward to the opportunity to see this fun team play one more game this season. Because unfortunately, I’m of the belief that it truly is just one more game.
I talked in depth about the game above, so you know what I think the Packers need to do to be able to win. But the deck is stacked against them in a big way. This is a talented, seasoned, hard-nosed football team that is coming off a bye, and the Packers have to play them on the road on a short week in potential bad weather.
It has been a fun ride to this year, and no matter what happens on Saturday, this team has exceeded expectations and I can’t wait to see what happens in 2024.
But if the Packers somehow do pull off the upset… I’m officially on the Super Bowl hype train, baby.
49ers 35, Packers 24
LAST WEEK: 4-2
SEASON TO DATE: 168-109
THIS WEEK’S PICKS:
BILLS over Chiefs
RAVENS over Texans
49ERS over Packers
LIONS over Buccaneers
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
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Tim Backes is a lifelong Packer fan and a contributor to CheeseheadTV. Follow him on Twitter @timbackes for his Packer takes, random musings and Untappd beer check-ins.
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Comments (106)
NickPerry
January 18, 2024 at 06:36 am
"Everything Aaron Jones: As I said on Twitter a few weeks ago, it feels like Aaron Jones has entered the Donald Driver tier of universally beloved longtime Packers. Seriously, how could anyone NOT love this guy? Here’s to hoping he’s back in the green and gold next year and ultimately retires a Packer. He’s shown no signs of slowing down, and is the lifeblood of this Packer team, both in terms of his offensive contributions and in his leadership."
Couldn't agree more Tim... I know he has a hellacious cap number next year but IMO you extend him and make it work. I understand "It's a Business" but God Damn, sometimes you just have to do what is RIGHT. Keeping Jones, making it work is the RIGHT thing. Not to mention the dude is still pretty damn good...GREAT!
Aaron Jones has been one of my favorite Packer players ever. There's no ego, no ME first in Aaron Jones. When it was Jamal Williams sharing duties he was always the first to congratulate him for a nice play or a TD. The same can be said about AJ Dillon. Jones just wants to WIN, whether it's him or someone else scoring the winning TD it doesn't matter...TEAM first! He's all about team., community, family, and the Packers!
Watching Jones run this past weekend could have made a partially blind man see the difference between him and ANY other RB they put in the game. I know everyone slows down, NO ONE beats father time. Driver didn't and neither will Jones. But like Driver, Jones need to slow down in Green and Gold...PERIOD.
#F**K the 49ers!
GO PACK GO!
Win or lose this has been the best season to be a Packers fan since the 2010 season...For ME that is...
pantz_bURp
January 18, 2024 at 07:54 am
Me as well Nick, for all the right reasons...
HawkPacker
January 18, 2024 at 09:27 am
Totally agree with everything you said Nick. I am starting to feel much the same about Jordan Love too. Such a class guy.
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 07:06 am
For Jone to have a good game we know what has to happen. I think it will because the O-line is just getting into their groove. If, like last Sunday, they don't get it going on the first drive or two, they need to stick with it and maybe just pass it to Jones and let him cook. He AND Wilson need their touches this weekend.
Lots of people here have been down on Dillan, but I'd love to see him in there bashing and tiring out the 9ers front for Jones even if he gets few yards.
When did Door Co. get a trolly? Bet that would be fun. Sounds like an excuse to make some plans.
Razer
January 18, 2024 at 07:52 am
...For Jones to have a good game we know what has to happen. I think it will because the O-line is just getting into their groove...
Our O-line has been a surprise. Between Bosa and Chase Young our two tackles will have the challenge of their young careers. Pressure makes diamonds boys. I am hoping that the middle of the line can play well - it has been our jelly filling for too many games. A good performance and we have a chance - a good chance.
HawkPacker
January 18, 2024 at 09:28 am
And now Armstead is back as well......
HarryHodag
January 18, 2024 at 07:07 am
I've been on a high during most of the Packers season. How refreshing to see young players giving it their all and improving each week.
But I fear it will end this Saturday .
Like Aaron Rodgers who owned the Bears, Kyle Shanahan owns Matt LaFleur. Shanahan is always the Donner Pass when MLF tries to go west. While the Cowboys have good players the 49'ers have A LOT of good players. It will be a tussle, but I have to say I think the 49'ers will prevail.
pantz_bURp
January 18, 2024 at 07:55 am
I hear ya Harry. I just want to see them play fast and physical. The outcome will be the outcome. Whatever happens, I am excited and appreciate this team.
Razer
January 18, 2024 at 08:01 am
...I've been on a high during most of the Packers season...
As I was scrolling through the comments, I read your first line as "I've been high during most of the Packers season". Double take got me back on track. You are right about the Kyle Shanahan thing. I think that he may be the best HC in the whole league. LaFleur knows that he has to out-plan that staff so I expect a good game plan. Do we have the horses to win our one on ones becomes the next question. On offense YES, on defense MAYBE. I just want to see a toe-to-toe match.
CasuallyObsessed
January 18, 2024 at 01:06 pm
I would say that it really hasn't been Shanahan. Look at the way we've shot ourselves in the foot the last few times. The 49ers didn't even get an offensive touchdown last time we met in the playoffs. This time, despite cmc and Samuel, I think we have the better offense. We have a much improved special teams. As long as the defense doesn't completely fold we have a very real chance! If the 49ers are rusty from a 2 week vacation and even slightly look past us. The game is ours.
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 01:22 pm
I think the rust might help on the first couple possessions. That will be all the Packers need to get a fast start.
It might really help if the 9ers receive the ball to start the game.
barutanseijin
January 18, 2024 at 07:55 pm
Don’t believe the hype.
Shananahan is 3-2 against Lafleur. If the Packers win this one, they’ll be even. Moreover, consider the most recent games , both in 2021. The Packers won in California. OK, they lost that disaster of a divisional round game in Wisconsin, but was that really on Lafleur? Even if he is as big a dope as some of you guys say he is, i rather doubt his game plan had the QB throwing to a well covered Davante Adams. That was on the QB/Passing game coordinator/OC. And even if you say he should have done something about a rogue QB, he wasn’t in a position to sit the stupid prick. Rodgers knew that and took full advantage of his fame. It just goes to show how the so-called smartest guy in the room was lacking in football sense.
mrtundra
January 18, 2024 at 07:31 am
Packers 24 SF 20. GO PACK, GO!!!
murf7777
January 18, 2024 at 08:45 am
Love your optimism…..I agree that I think we are going to have to keep them 20 or under to win this game. I have it 20-17 Packers. We will have to stop McCaffrey from running and catching over 100 yards and get a couple of TO’s without us turning the ball over.
Not going to be easy, neither did anyone think it was going to be at Dallas and we kicked their A**. So, you never know, that’s why they play the game.
Leatherhead
January 18, 2024 at 11:00 am
We're going to have to hold SF, at home, to 20 or less? A tall order, but two teams did exactly that, Baltimore and Cincinnati. 8 turnovers for SF in those two games. In fact, every time that SF turned it over more than twice, they lost. In games where they don't have a turnover, they are 8-0.
McCaffrey averages well over 100 total yards per game. I'm not as concerned about his yardage as I am about keeping him out of the endzone, because he's scored 21 of them this year. Samuel has 12, and Aiyuk and Kittle have 13 between them.
I do think it's a "pick your poison" situation on defense, but if we're playing with a lead there'll be more pressure on SF. They do make mistakes. 31 points beats them every time, so I really think the key is to keep offensive pressure on them and hope they can't keep up.
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 12:22 pm
Another key, don't you think will be special teams? Flip field position, don't give up too much.
stockholder
January 18, 2024 at 07:33 am
The Packers got to this game because of MLF. Not Gute!
So let's just stop the " pledge of Allegiance" to Gutey.
Let's also stop the treating of Rodgers like Rubbish now too.
The talk has reversed on MLF. His coaching got them here.
And Barry has been given new Life.
The 49ers are not the Boogyman.
The Rams know that only too well.
And MLF- only needs to give a shout out to his brother Mike.
Yes, Mike has faced the 49ers and knows the rivalry.
As long as the packers "keep fighting”, they can Win.
They’ve done that up to now. And stayed in Control.
pantz_bURp
January 18, 2024 at 07:57 am
Okay, Stock as long as you can try to:
"So let's just stop the " pledge of Allegiance" to Gutey"(please insert Rodgers). :)
stockholder
January 18, 2024 at 08:06 am
I'm just saying stop the Inquisition.
Be Positive and move forward.
pantz_bURp
January 18, 2024 at 08:14 am
Now I can agree with that Stock...be positive and move forward.
Forward, with the current players and front office at this moment before a big game. All the speculation regarding who gets not enough credit or blame I am sure will follow in the off-season
Go TEAM Go!
*I do sincerely appreciate your passion regarding the Packers Stock and am glad you are a diehard fan!
packer132
January 18, 2024 at 08:41 am
Be positive and move forward? Are you kidding? Most of the Packer fans were positive before the season and even during the rough games early in the year (EXCEPT for you). You have bashed Love and Gute since your man Crush Rodgers left. Who do you think drafted all these good young players, LaFleur? Gute has 11 draft picks from 2023 and 9 picks from 2022 STILL on the roster for this weekend. Add in his picks of Gary, Savage, Jenkins (no sacks allowed again), Love, Mcduffie, Slaton, Myers. Gute also brought in 6 free agents in 2023 and 5 in 2022 that are on the team for the 49 er game. Its obvious you can't give the GM credit, but I do along with the rest of Packer nation. I am positive and always have been, win or lose this weekend.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 08:42 am
You can't stop the Inquisition....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUMkcBctE7c
LLCHESTY
January 18, 2024 at 01:59 pm
No one 3xpects the Spanish Inquisition!
https://youtu.be/Cj8n4MfhjUc?si=hdSE4Oo41CE8c6M4
Coldworld
January 18, 2024 at 08:12 am
The Packers got to this game mostly due to Love and a young group of receivers and TEs, all of whom Gute picked. One could argue that Zach Tom also played an outsize part, along with 2 7th round gems, Walker and Valentine. I should perhaps mention LVN getting sacks and the continued impact plays by Brooks. All Gute picks. They were ably assisted by Aaron Jones having the purplest patch of his career it’s true.
However good LaFleur’s game plans may have been, are you seriously arguing that he or anyone could have us contending without that long list of massively over performing rookies and second year players?
Gute’s hit a home run, several by the look of it, the biggest of which appears to be Love, a pick you’ve long said would define Gute (straight to hell in your view).
Gute might very well have had a generational draft this year, and a generational pick in 2020. Gute should legitimately in contention for personnel executive of the year for giving us the pieces we’ve seen get us here. You still can’t face that reality, but you will have to eventually. this is one hell of an exciting roster now and for the future. A roster Gute built. One that might be even more impressive with certain coaching changes.
The Rams aren’t playing this week. The 49ers are. Let’s see if LaFleur and his team can win the coaching battle. So far it’s not been in their favor. Regardless, I’d rather have our roster for the next few years than theirs. I’d rather have Love over Purdy too, a man you’ve told us Love can’t hold a candle to.
Thank you Gute for giving us youth that has talent to be excited about so rapidly after the old, slow and jaded group of 2022. He’ll, even the D flashes if Barry stays out of its way. Love is a Gute thing.
Leatherhead
January 18, 2024 at 08:42 am
""""are you seriously arguing that he or anyone could have us contending without that long list of massively over performing rookies and second year players?"""
Are you seriously arguing that the coaching had nothing to do with getting the rookies and second year players to over perform? It just happened in a vacuum? And Love.....he got no good coaching over the last three years?
It might be more impressive with certain coaching changes. Or worse. Maybe Barry and Steno and Butkus and LaFleur did a better job than you think. Maybe we've got some good coaches on that staff.
Coldworld
January 18, 2024 at 09:44 am
Maybe, maybe not. Maybe Gute did a better job than you think, but then you think everyone who is incumbent is great and all things are rosy, including Barry, as you constantly argue. Maybe Love’s role in this and the talent and bonding between players has a bigger role than you give it credit. I think so.
murf7777
January 18, 2024 at 08:53 am
You just can’t help yourself not giving Mlf the credit he so deserves. Who do you think motivated and trained these over achieving young talent? Time to admit you’ve been wrong.
Coldworld
January 18, 2024 at 09:41 am
I don’t believe in Barry’s retentions. I don’t believe in LaFleur as a Head Coach. Nothing has changed recently with respect to those issues.
As an OC, he’s looked very much improved. He certainly had Quinn bamboozled. I don’t put too much stock in the games versus the Bears and Vikings, but that’s because I didn’t buy their Ds against a real offense anyway, but perhaps. This will be a real test of LaFleur playing a mentor in the same system essentially and a good roster.
The bottom line though is I don’t see that as relevant to LaFleur the HC. STenovich essentially admitted that LaFleur was not running the O previously, perhaps much less so than most of us thought likely. Yet he was a willing and vocal advocate for that. I find that troubling. It at least makes it clearer who was responsible for prior seasons. Rodgers and presumably Murphy empowering him unless you think LaFleur is even weaker than I do.
Perhaps that can be a springboard to enable him to assert himself, but that will be shown by his actions post season. Right now the play of Jones is freakish by his standards, Love is far beyond expectations and the talent level of the TEs and WRs Gute assembled seems to me to be carrying us along for this ride more than anything.
So yes, I maintain my opinion and I’m not shy of saying so. With a few more reasons than I ever see you articulate for your praise of LaFleur, Barry and co.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 09:43 am
Nick Bosa's comment on Love: he's doing what he's been coached to do. And says that ARod wasn't anymore.
Coldworld
January 18, 2024 at 10:06 am
Stenavich was just asked about that directly. His comments illustrate that Rodgers was almost entirely in control. Far beyond what most of us thought, certainly that I did.
That raises questions about the “solution” Murphy presided over, and even more do the pre 2022 extension. It also raises character and confidence questions about LaFleur due to his willingness to accept essentially control by Rodgers.
It doesn’t of course speak to his staffing personnel decisions or non offensive matters, unless there is more to come out. It does exonerate him from a lot of tactical questions on offense though. It also probably means his wins loss record is indeed not all due to him.
Here are Stenavich’s key statements:
“There definitely is a value to that, because half of the time when you get done with a drive sometimes, in past years, you’re just trying to figure out what play was called.”
“With Aaron, he would see stuff and make checks and all that that you didn’t exactly know what was happening at the time.”
“We’re all kinda on the same page and going. Not to say that way wasn’t good because we had great results with it, but this is nice because at least you can kind of build an offense around it. Build plays off of plays, as the game progresses, hey we did this, now we’re going to do this, now we’re going to do this.”
“I think our communication on the sideline has been better, just from that aspect,” he said. “That is a huge advantage this year.”
A pretty bizarre way to run a team.
barutanseijin
January 18, 2024 at 08:16 pm
Stenavich said the same. The guy went rogue.
Bitternotsour
January 18, 2024 at 10:00 am
My assessment of LaFleur was based on bending his knee to Rodgers. I didn't believe he had the requisite spine to be a leader, he came off as weak (and often clueless.) My view is changing. Jordan Love is the reason my view is evolving. Love seems to genuinely embrace LaFleur, and this young team seems to see LaFleur as their guy. Preston Smith coming to Barry's defense also affected me.
I have no idea how the game will go this weekend, on paper the 49'ers have better talent (drawn from their seriously higher draft picks) and a better coach. But, I believe LaFleur is here to stay, and Barry may be too. I live in the real world. Getting to the playoffs, and destroying the Cowboys has bought a lot of good will.
stockholder
January 18, 2024 at 10:00 am
The packers would have got there with Rodgers.
had Gutey drafted Right players for him, like Love.
And that goes for the LOVE pick!
Regardless It's No fault of Loves.
He done his best, And thats all you can ask of any packer.
Including Rodgers.
(Nobody in the NFL thought Rodgers is or was washed up.)
Exec of the year is ridicules. - Trading Douglass was Asinine.
And I maintain that Gute and Murphy were ready to reprimand
him, if they didn't blow out the vikings.
The Roster build wasn't a stroke of genius. AS any draft Guru stated.
It was about what he had, and getting younger.
You ate crow with MLF doing well. Like most here.
It's now a matter of just how far these players want to go.
Coldworld
January 18, 2024 at 10:12 am
The Packers didn’t get there with Rodgers despite good rosters. Rodgers and this group functioning as they do with Love is just preposterous. Especially after Stenavich’s insights.
stockholder
January 18, 2024 at 10:28 am
Good- A DL with a Reed and Lowrey?
Walker getting kicked out of the big game.
Rodgers Stated 2 players away.
I for years said TE, DL, ILB.
All which led to down votes.
Yet here we are with a Defense Line almost last.
And a Safety problem that never improved.
And a OL that was in turmoil until lately.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 01:01 pm
"Walker getting kicked out of the big game."
Really? Three 13-win regular seasons with two 1-seeds and you're going to hold up two journeyman DL and a rookie player on an 8-9 team play-in game?
Bitternotsour
January 18, 2024 at 10:40 am
There was a metastasizing cancer on the team and it wore the number 12. He had the hallmarks of all narcissists, a view of themselves as infallible. He thought himself smarter than the coach, the GM, hell, smarter than immunologists, and virologists. Kimmel was right, he'd gone and assumed the G on the side of his helmet stood for genius. That's not "carrying the G"
That Murphy doubled down on that guy is really disturbing.
There was only one way for the team to get well, and it was cutting out the cancer.
Bitternotsour
January 18, 2024 at 10:41 am
Greg Jennings and his sister called it. We all lambasted them, they were unfortunately right.
stockholder
January 18, 2024 at 11:13 am
No, you only have to look at 2017 and that roster.
Jared Cook - Solution Bennett / Graham??
Nick Perry - Peppers? King?
All would not be resigned.
Rodgers - broke his collar bone.
Injuries wear players down.
The first thing to player happiness- is safety.
This team was on his shoulders.
Not new faces.
barutanseijin
January 18, 2024 at 08:18 pm
Aaron Rodgers, the man of 10,000 excuses.
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 11:42 am
"I'm just saying stop the Inquisition.
Be Positive and move forward."
Well, the above lasted for about 2 hours! It is actually funny.
LLCHESTY
January 18, 2024 at 02:05 pm
"You ate crow with MLF doing well."
Just like you should be doing with Gutey.
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 12:13 pm
The 2023 draft may end up being Gutey's best during his tenure...at a time when the Team needed it most. Rookie contributions galore from the class! I cannot recall a more impactful class in terms of quantity.
I do hope his 2024 draft will be even better.
Cheesemaker
January 18, 2024 at 09:27 pm
Solid summary. Your balanced, insightful comments are why I bother checking in.
TXCHEESE
January 18, 2024 at 08:37 am
Dude! Who do you think drafted this team and brought in the key free agents P. Smith, D. Campbell? Gute did! Last but certainly not least, who do you think traded a $50MM diva QB away that could not get his team over the hump, and gave his 1st round selection the chance to do what he's been doing. I agree that MLF has done a really good job of bringing these guys, particularly Love along. Maybe it would have worked out in the past if the previous QB would have taken a little coaching.
The only major fault I find with Gute, is keeping QB12 1 year too long, and they may have been on MM and not Gute.
murf7777
January 18, 2024 at 09:01 am
Blaming Gute for signing a QB who just came off back to back MVP’s, a future 1st time HOF, isn’t a major fault IMO. Seems to me that most, if not all GM’s would’ve kept said QB over starting a QB without experience.
With the benefit of hindsight, yes, trading him the year before would’ve been the right move.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 09:40 am
I think that's a great point: however the dynamics worked that ended up with that huge contract, give Gute and the Packers' brass (because it couldn't have happened without Murphy's blessing) credit for getting out from under it once they realized the situation was truly untenable.
barutanseijin
January 18, 2024 at 08:12 pm
Just for you, stocky ol’ pal:
Rodgers sucked in that last game vs SF. He was the reason they lost, not the defense, not even special teams, as bad as they were. Again, he was terrible with a capital T, and was why they lost. It’s too bad Gutekunst didn’t ship his ass out the next day because he just continued doing the same things that didn’t work the next season.
The scouting reports when he came out dinged him for being difficult to coach & arrogant. The scouts were right and those flaws were his downfall time and time again.
stockholder
January 18, 2024 at 09:00 pm
Ok - Rodgers wasn't super-man.
But he didn't throw a INT either.
Stats were even and they won 13-10.
Seems I remember a lot of pressure,
and a fumble by a TE. And a FG call.
Rodgers did have permission to call plays.
Rodgers will always be a legend.
Being arrogant won't keep him out of the HOF.
Every HOF is full of them.
Razer
January 18, 2024 at 07:44 am
If this season has taught me anything - it is that you don't count these guys out. I would have never expected the blowout in Dallas but the coaches drew up a great plan and the boys made it happen. As Tim mentions, Shanahan has been outmatching LaFleur since he became our HC. I doubt LaFleur likes to get his hair tussled so our coach should be fired up for this. I don't doubt that Matt has been thinking about ways to slay this dragon for some time now. The plan should be good.
As I see it we lead with Aaron Jones and follow with Love. Jones brings them in and Love takes them out. I am hoping that our TEs are a major factor both blocking and in the underneath/middle of the field routes. Beyond that I only ask that our defense plays them tough. Make Purdy and McCaffery work for every yard. Settling for field goals and getting off the field on 3rd downs would be win/win. Regardless of outcome, leave it on the field and keep your heads up boys.
Go Packers
barutanseijin
January 18, 2024 at 08:23 pm
I’m not seeing this total dominance you talk about in the Packers record vs Shamahan. What’ are you basing that on?
SicSemperTyrannis
January 18, 2024 at 07:45 am
I make no predictions about this game, I just hope to see GB show up and play well. Preferably from the opening drive and for 60 minutes, with no injuries.
There are some 14 players in the questionable category. Cox will need to play at outside LB; MLF is going to be wishing he had played him more. LVN and #52 both need their best games.
GPG!
Razer
January 18, 2024 at 08:11 am
...I just hope to see GB show up and play well...
After the Giants/Tampa Bay/Carolina stretch I reset my expectation to exactly your line. The Dallas game was about one team showing up and play well and another, the favourite, failing to do either.
I agree on the Rashan Gary and Van Ness needing to step up. Clark and Preston Smith need a few more contributors this weekend. Unfortunately, Kevin Greene isn't around to whisper "it is time" to Gary.
jont
January 18, 2024 at 08:52 am
"...I just hope to see GB show up and play well..."
IMO, we are past this, with all due respect. The Packers are good; they've grown and are now playing like a solid team. They'll lose a few games to be sure, but we can expect them to make a good showing every time.
barutanseijin
January 18, 2024 at 08:24 pm
Hey, Zombo was a rookie in 2010 and look where they got that year.
Turophile
January 18, 2024 at 07:52 am
Regarding the headline 'Taking on the Boogeyman'.
We call Love 'Baba Yaga'. "He's not exactly the Boogeyman, he's the one you send to kill the Boogeyman." "He is a man of focus, commitment and sheer will."
"I once saw him kill another team with a Melton.......a fxxxxx Melton ! " (Courtesy of John Wick 1)
Razer
January 18, 2024 at 08:13 am
..."I once saw him kill another team with a Melton.......a fxxxxx Melton ! "...
Too funny. Maybe beat them with a Reed just for good measure.
MytQ
January 18, 2024 at 01:14 pm
💯 Just watched that one before the Dallas game. May have to watch Wick 2 to prepare for the Niners.
calabasa
January 18, 2024 at 08:02 am
I feel like in this game we need to assume the identity of the Bears when they play us. Scrappy, fight for every yard and cause a few fluky turnovers. If mother nature helps out with something to knock the Niners out of rhythm, I think we stand a very good chance of winning.
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 08:04 am
"The Packers need to keep their defense off the field..."
Agree Tim. Same objective to control the clock with chain moving scoring drives. The concerning matchup is Packer D vs Niner O. I have optimism for the Packer Offense but if they struggle just a bit...
I was concerned when Matt shared his approval of Joe Barry's D this week. Things like "I couldn't be happier..." after his D gave up 500 yards, 32 points, had to defend 89 plays and 31 minutes of the game. That performance makes the HC happy?
The two turnovers certainly made all of us happy...and without them, last Sunday could have been an entirely different game. Turnovers are the great equalizer for all defenses but to rely on them to provide a winning performance is very dangerous. Sounds like ML may be plowing the ground to plant Barry Ball again next season. SMH.
Matt also said "I know Joe very well and knew he could come in here and fix this thing." What? Fix the Pettine D? Barry Ball is an improvement over Mike P? Another SMH.
I do give huge credit to ML and staff for the growth of their new Field General and his young Offense. They do need to throw a few wrinkles at the Niners...maybe off of more 12 or 22 personnel looks with the IOC.
I do feel the WR corps has future potential with Love to approximate the heady days of Rodgers & Jordy, Cobb, Driver, Jennings, Jones.
Love & Reed, Doubs, Watson, Wicks, Melton and Heath could be as good a group. And this time with two TEs that can produce.
Future is bright. Are you entertained? Are you not entertained?
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 08:23 am
"I do feel the WR corps has future potential with Love to approximate the heady days of Rodgers & Jordy, Cobb, Driver, Jennings, Jones."
I think they've already reached that plateau, and with these TEs will surpass any receiving group we've seen the Packers field,
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 08:51 am
The TEs could be the best since Chewy and Jackson...with many more years together too!
murf7777
January 18, 2024 at 09:15 am
“ after his D gave up 500 yards, 32 points, had to defend 89 plays and 31 minutes of the game. That performance makes the HC happy?“
Let’s keep in mind that in the 4th Quarter, before they started playing prevent defense and backed off on offense, while up by 32 points only gave up 294 yards and held them to 16. . You could argue not to play the prevent and take some of the starters off the field, but they certainly could’ve held Dallas well below the 500 yards if they kept playing like the first 3+ quarters. Of course, the other side of the argument, is how would’ve the fan base felt if Love got injured during that series he played Clifford?
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 12:03 pm
Many here recognized the Packers have invested heavily in Defense and Barry has been given a talented roster that has been under-utilized, synergies not exploited.
I was very pleased when Barry decided to be aggressive to pressure Dallas and Dak in the first half. It worked. Why did he change it back to Barry Ball in the second half?
With a lead, he instinctively returns to his old, 5 year old prevent, soft D, rushing just 4, giving up yards...first downs...field position...and scores. It routinely keeps the Defense on the field, getting gassed when they need a stop late in the game.
If you trust Joe Barry late in the game with a one score lead to get a stop...good for you, Murph. I do not.
I believe a change to a proven, successful DC would be as transformative for the Packers as Love has been leading the O and executing the IOC concept Matt is finally getting to run playbook cover to cover.
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 12:31 pm
They might have scored a bit too fast on us, but really it was against backups. The score was 48-16! I can handle giving them garbage points with the starters resting. Might be the starting O was getting rested too soon. They could have tried for a few more first downs, but it worked out in the end.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 01:05 pm
I mean, really, who'da thunk that a bunch of special teamers and #2s wouldn't be able to cover Lamb and Ferguson and all those guys?
barutanseijin
January 18, 2024 at 08:31 pm
What do want to see in a defense? I think Lafleur’s goal in the second half was to put the team in the best position for a game vs the No. 1 seed. That meant spelling starters, avoiding injuries and if possible, eating clock. All very reasonable. Scoring style points in extended garbage time is nice, but not the first priority.
Guam
January 18, 2024 at 08:05 am
I love Aaron Jones and hope he is a Packer next year and beyond, however I don't think Jones will sustain his recent string of 100 yard games or even have a good game this week against the 49ers. The SF DL is probably the best in the league and much better than the Dallas front the Packers faced last week. I think our young OL is going to struggle opening holes against that front four.
Conversely, I think SF's secondary is a bit slow and if the OL can give Love even a bit of time, the Packer receiving corps could give SF's secondary fits. I think the OL and Jordan Love are going to be the keys for the Packer offense next Saturday.
Will Joe Barry's scheme slow down the SF offense? IDK.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 08:49 am
I keep coming back to the point that if SF's secondary is its weak link, they do an awful good job of hiding that weakness.
Guam
January 18, 2024 at 09:23 am
They hide it because they rush the passer so damn well. It is hard to run deep routes against them. Their secondary isn't bad, but I think the Packer's group of burners can cause them problems if Love can get a bit of time. Thankfully Watson is returning to good health. Between Watson, Melton and Reed, the Packers have some serious speed.
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 12:19 pm
Pressure D up front is a DBs best friend.
jannesbjornson
January 18, 2024 at 11:36 am
The O line will have to move faster and punch harder. LaFleur needs a steady dose of mis-direction and counter plays to work over the front seven. Fred Warner has to be controlled. They should target Burks in the running game and iso him. The play action fake to A.Jones and let him drift to the flats. Love is delivering fire balls, so he should be able to dissect the zones with slants and crosses. Seven one picks occupying spots on this defense, they have to deliver.
Leatherhead
January 18, 2024 at 08:11 am
Regardless of what happens, this has been a great season in my opinion. Big answers about Love being able to play, big answers about LaFleur's ability to win without Rodgers. We have a 4-2 division record and we beat all of our division rivals on their home fields. We made the playoffs, we beat the big, bad Cowboys like a rented mule.
Get ahead and make them play catch up. Put pressure on them. They do turn the ball over. Their defense isn't any better than the Packers defense (and I know that everybody knows how horrible our defense is) with the notable exception of interceptions, where SF has many and the Packers have few. They're comparable to Dallas' defense (which, again, was much better than ours. Lots of people said so)
If we protect Love, we're going to move the ball and score points. We have a real shot to win this game, but if we don't, I'm still really happy with this season, and next year is going to be even better.
Razer
January 18, 2024 at 08:22 am
Well said. As much as we cite schemes and plays, this will boil down to stepping up to the challenge. Down the stretch our coaches have done a good job of tuning up these guys - now is the time to demonstrate that the game isn't too big for the player. We are just young and crazy enough to beat the guy across line from us.
Coldworld
January 18, 2024 at 08:35 am
We have speed. Reed, Watson and Melton are all sub 4.4 types. That’s faster than Zay Flowers who ran circles around the 49ers secondary in Baltimore’s win. All can play and thrive in motion too, which is what the much smaller Flowers did repeatedly. It’s not just the deep pass threat.
We have the offensive pieces to attack their weakness and avoid their one true gem in the backfield (Charvarius Ward), if we can win in the trenches and if our D can hold up and return possession often enough. LaFleur has the tools if Butkus and Barry do their part. That’s quite a challenge for both, of course.
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 08:53 am
Dittos, LH!
Brockrice99
January 18, 2024 at 08:13 am
2 Big things that I think will really go a long ways in decide this game is: 1. Can the packers block the 4 that San Fran is going to rush. They do a very good job at rushing 4 and getting home with that 4. If the OL can hold up and force San Fran to bring more pressure, that should open up more space in the passing game. 2. Defensively, we need to get pressure. Rashan Gary, Kenny Clark, Preston Smith, etc, need to get to the Quarterback. When Purdy faces pressure he can get a little flustered, if he can sit back with no pressure and have time to let Deebo, Kittle, and Aiyuk get open, then it will be a long day for the defense.
TXCHEESE
January 18, 2024 at 08:45 am
Definitely need to pass out of some 2 TE sets to keep the pass rush at bay. Hopefully the run game can keep GB in 2 and 3 and manageable yardage. The D just needs to stay aggressive. They did an excellent job of switching coverages post snap...confusing the hell out of Stat Prescott and his merry band of pro bowl receivers.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 08:55 am
You forgot "tackle". These weapons for SF are great in the open field, play physical, and make yards after contact. They're going to get their catches. McCaffrey's going to get his touches. They need to limit the yards after contact.
Leatherhead
January 18, 2024 at 11:09 am
Yeah, I think that's a real defensive key. We may not be able to prevent the completion, but we can't allow them to run after they catch it. It needs to be a catch, followed by an instantaneous hit that drives them into the ground.
McCaffrey, Aiyuk, Samuel, Kittle. If you could cause one of those guys to have a poor game, who would it be? McCaffrey averages about 6.0 yards/touch, and Aiyuk averages almost 18.0.
LLCHESTY
January 18, 2024 at 02:10 pm
Yes and one gets 25 touches and the other about 4. Mike Wahle just said today everything the 49ers do starts with their run game. I trust him way more than you.
Bitternotsour
January 18, 2024 at 10:32 pm
I'm writing that down, tackling is important.
1. Must tackle given opportunity
2. Must finish offensive drives with touchdowns
2a. Limiting touchdowns by 49ers is good
3. Turnovers by our offense would be bad
4. Getting turnovers on defensive side, good
I think I saw something somewhere on the board about control of the line of scrimmage, but I can't really remember the specifics. Can someone help me out?
RCPackerFan
January 18, 2024 at 08:44 am
Keys to the game:
As always win the trenches - This is pretty much the key to every game. But even more important in this game. Love needs time to throw and they need holes for Jones. On defense they have to stop the run, no lose contain, and get pressure on Purdy. Not an easy task but to win they need to.
Jones - We need a big game from Jones. It will be tough with one of the best pairs of ILB's in the league, but we need him to be a huge factor in this game.
Win the turnover battle - The Packers have not had a lot of turnovers this season. For interceptions they were 2nd to last in the league. However last week they had 2 crucial ones. We need to win the turnover battle and we need to not have any ourselves.
Aggressive attitude - I want to see them keep the aggressive attitude in all phases of the game. On offense I want to see them open up the game. Throw everything they have against them. I want them to be aggressive but under control. Can't take unnecessary risks. Defensively I want them to be more aggressive with the blitz this game. Whether its run blitzes or if its against the Purdy, they need to play on other side of the LOS.
Holding 49ers to 20 or less - In all of the 49ers wins they have averaged 33 points per game. In their 5 losses they averaged 18 points. Purdy put up some big numbers this year. He threw for 4280 yards, 31 TD"s and 11 interceptions. McCaffrey ran for 1459 yards, 14 TD's and added 564 receiving yards and 7 TD's. Aiyuk had 1342 yards, 7 TD's. Kittle had 1020 yards, 6 TD's. Samuel caught 892 yards and 7 TD's, and he ran for 225 yards and 5 TD's. This is an explosive offense with a lot of playmakers and a good scheme. There is a lot of eye candy in this offense, meaning they try to get you look this way and go the other way with it.
Beating the 49ers won't be easy. They are a very good team. But they aren't unbeatable. They lost 3 games in the middle of the season and they got whooped by the Ravens. If Green Bay plays up to their ability, they can win this game! No one picked GB to beat Dallas. No one is picking GB against the 49ers from what I have seen. Dallas and 49ers ranked about the same both offensively and defensively. Don't be surprised if we surprise some more people this week!
LeotisHarris
January 18, 2024 at 08:53 am
Adding to the praise for Aaron Jones, he did a stellar job in pass protection against the Cowboys. There were two or three times he was there to help take on Parsons that converted a sack into a hurry. Love the guy's heart!
San Francisco has every right to feel confident going into this game. We are certainly the underdog given their star-powered lineup, homefield advantage, extra week of rest, and overhyped head coach. Still, I don't think another surprise victory is out of the question. Play well. Play smart. Go Pack!
jont
January 18, 2024 at 09:00 am
For predictions, last week the only one I got wrong was about the team I know best. Oh, well.
This week I confidently predict Bills, Ravens, and Bucs as winners along with a 20-19 victory for Green Bay in a surprisingly defense oriented game.
J-Rome
January 18, 2024 at 09:05 am
I too, think this game will likely be the end of the line for the Packers this year. But, a kick return, a couple turnovers, and who knows? The Cowboys didn't match up well against the Packers, they weren't good at defending all the things the packers offense does well. I think they also took Dallas by surprise a little bit. I don't think that happens with San Francisco. If the Packers can get those turnovers or other big plays early though, they'll be in the game and have a shot. The coaches know each other well, so this is also a chance to see how LaFleur has grown as a playcaller. I hope we shock the world again!
Cubbygold
January 18, 2024 at 09:14 am
Just a few comments:
- This could potentially be the last game of Jordan Love's career where the expectation isn't to win. This team has outperformed so much this year, and accomplished every reasonable goal. But if they win this game and beat this SF team, the expectations are to go win the next two games. And if they lose this game, the expectation is that they are a 10+ win team next year. So I'm going to enjoy this stress free game, because this team is a winner and the expectations of that will follow soon. I'm going to enjoy the underdog role while it lasts.
- There's a world where we're watching this same matchup - MLF vs. Shanahan - twenty years from now and the announcers talk about this being one of the most storied coaching rivalries in NFL history. These guys are good, they're young and they lead great organizations. This will be just another chapter in what I hope ends up being an entertaining show for years to come.
- Pack played excellent in Dallas. How different would the game have been if not for that early PI penalty to give GB their first 1st down? How different would the game have been if Lamb didn't choke and simply catches a few easy early passes? GB did great, not trying to take anything away from them, but that game is different if Dallas doesn't assist GB in getting a large early lead. I don't expect SF will do that, and so my hope is that this team comes out with even more fire and a strong game plan to get the team rolling early.
TheBigCat
January 18, 2024 at 09:16 am
Tim:
1. Growing up in western WI, I always felt the Vikings were the Packers' biggest rival; until Sunday's game w/ the Cowboys. We were so pumped at the close of that game we were having celebration shots of Fireball; never did that after a win over the Vikings (just had the satisfaction Packers were better)
2. Tried a "schwartzbier" at our local German restaurant this week; VERY smooth and drinkable. So I picked a six-pack of Sinistor Black Ale (10 Barrel Brewing). Equally smooth and drinkable.
3. Feeling good about upcoming game w/ 49ers. After the last three games, if the Packers play and coach to their potential any thing is possible. The Packers are nobody's underdog.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 09:22 am
SF is just an outstanding team. Playmakers on both sides of the ball, and in both the passing game and run game. They take care of the football. Extremely well coached. Defensive front 7 dictates play. They play fast and physical...I think way moreso than Dallas. This is just a very difficult matchup for the Packers, although they've started to show an ability to embrace some physicality this season, more than in the past when they've wilted against really physical teams.
The defense needs to control the LOS, limit chunk plays, and tackle. Much like what they did against Dallas, they have to force SF to earn every yard and string together long drives to score. When SF has lost, McCaffrey wasn't allowed to break 10 and 20 yard runs. I might be crashing the inside gaps with regularity on early downs and trying to stop 23 before he gets going. Be good in the red zone, force 3s over 7s.
The Packers need more of what they did against Dallas: be unpredictable on offense and take care of the football. Move the chains, don't abandon the run game. Get 33 the ball in space. Take shots downfield when they're there. Love has been so good on third down...that needs to continue. Finish drives: 7s not 3s. I think SF will be juiced to play on Saturday and the Packers can't let SF's shots at and slightly after the whistle get in their heads. Weather the storm early and don't get snowballed. They'll have to deliver a couple shots, too.
Tim's comment about winning the TO battle and forcing a few stops fits. If this game says close, I think possessions will come at a premium, and four punts might be hard to come by. But I agree that one TO and four punts likely means a close slugfest.
HawkPacker
January 18, 2024 at 09:23 am
'Jerry Jones getting mad: '
The thing I noticed when I looked at Jerry in his box is that when the Cowboys were getting their a$$es kicked, the guys around him were pretty quiet like they were afraid to say anything as they were worried they may say the wrong thing. I don't have any ill will about Jerry other than he seems to get his way all the time with the media, game officials, etc. Just like he is owed something.
The other thing I do not like is the way Tom Landry was kicked aside when Jones took over. I feel he was disrespected in the manner that he was let go. Up to that point, I had a lot of respect for the cowboys being a class organization and the same for Landry.
Houndog
January 18, 2024 at 10:06 am
Hawk,
I'm with you, I never liked the way Landry was treated. He was a huge part of building that team from the ground up, and was Mr. Cowboy for so many years. He deserved any and all the accolades he received. He deserved Better!
HawkPacker
January 18, 2024 at 09:25 am
'The CHICAGO BEARS'
My thoughts are that they will trade Fields and draft Caleb Williams and also select another WR. This may depend on what they can get for Fields.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 09:34 am
The problem with Fields in trade is that the acquiring team is going to have to make a big financial commitment to him--and everyone knows what he is--which will limit what teams will give in trade to a degree. I think the Bears will try to deal Fields, but might be surprised with his market. Recent deals for veteran QBs will signal teams to be wary.
HawkPacker
January 18, 2024 at 01:10 pm
I tend to agree with you dobber. However, one of the draft guru's from ESPN seems to think they will get a current year first rounder. Go figure!
RCPackerFan
January 18, 2024 at 10:16 am
If I'm the Bears. I keep Fields, draft Williams or Maye (whoever they feel is the best QB).
To me that would be the best situation. You draft the QB to be the future. But then you have the option to go with the best QB in the future. Fields is still young, and is entering his final year with the rookie contract. If he balls out, they have options. They could trade him and get a ton more for it. They could then trade the rookie QB. But by keeping FIelds they can allow the rookie QB the year to develop. They give him the ability to develop before being put on the field before he is ready. Now maybe he shows he is ready right away. But if he is ready, is it going to hurt to sit behind Fields for 1 year? I don't think so. Mahommes sat for a year and most said he was ready.
To me that is the way I would go.
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 12:37 pm
If the Bears don't address and succeed with their O-line, it won't matter who the QB is.
I'm betting the Bears screw this up somehow.
dobber
January 18, 2024 at 01:11 pm
This might be what you do. A rookie QB is cost-controlled. Let him acclimate a year with Fields taking most of the snaps...they're gambling then that Fields will perform in a way that boosts his value. Problem is, Fields will get hurt and miss some games. Buyer beware.
LambeauPlain
January 18, 2024 at 12:34 pm
Could be...it is the bares.
It is rare a rookie QB can start and play at a high level. Stroud is an obvious exception this year. And maybe Williams is a "can't miss" pick. And so was Trevor Lawrence on draft day. He has had a very bumpy road. And Lawrence may still be a top NFL QB, but the mantra that starting a rookie QB is risky and can greatly disrupt his development, confidence, and growth does have evidence.
The Packer approach has worked better as Rodgers and Love have/are displaying. Even Favre was a 3 stringer in Atlanta his rookie year and sat behind Majik in his second...until Don got hurt.
The bares HC is a good as gone if they trade Fields and he has to win with a rookie QB in 2024. It is possible but unlikely they would have a winning record.
Houndog
January 18, 2024 at 09:28 am
The Pack definitely has their work cut out for them on Saturday.
Do I think they'll win, No!
Do I think they can, Yes, but they'll need their "Best Game +" from every player AND COACH to win it.
Shanahan has had since halftime of the Cowboy's game to prepare, and in watching that he undoubtedly saw how Joe Barry's 'prevent' defense can often 'prevent' the Packers from winning. Even MLF seemed to finally notice when he brought Love and Jones back into the Cowboy's game.
IF the Packers have to lose I just want a few things to come of it:
1.) No serious injuries
2.) No Packers/Cowboys type blowout. A solid performance is all I ask, show them that we're nobody's whipping boys!
3.) An absolute, no questions asked, verdict, that this was Joe Barry's last game!
***Note to Tim***
Yes, the Savage and Tramon Williams interceptions were similar, some of the networks have even shown replays with the 'ghost' of Williams running alongside Savage.
Aaron Jones is the lifeblood of the offense and can be described in just four words: Team Guy, Team Leader! It's clear the 'kids' look up to him, he's the ultimate Packer and a "Pro's Pro". We need to find a way to keep him, forever! As I said in a post a few days ago, he has earned and deserves a shot at the Title.
NFLfan
January 18, 2024 at 09:35 am
I'm not as ebullient as some. I'm really missing Rasul right about now and I don't think Jones will be the same factor against SF. They have had time to figure out how to neutralize him.
I just hope to God Barry is booted because I'm tired of worrying about an inconsistent Defense. Yes, they have been good the last several games but Barry regresses the majority of the time. And, he is a drag on Love's efforts.
Hoping Savage and Jaire can do a repeat.
Swisch
January 18, 2024 at 09:57 am
I'm concerned about getting blown out by the 49ers, but then again, I felt that way about the Lions on Thanksgiving and the Chiefs on Sunday Night Football -- which both turned out wonderfully.
Let's hope the challenge of taking on a top team before a nationally televised audience gets our players motivated to go out on the field playing hard and smart with their fullest effort.
A little fear and a lot of enthusiasm can do wonders.
Then, no regrets.
***
We're all works in progress, and we all need to keep growing.
Whether it's LaFleur and Barry as coaches, or Love and Jones and Gary and Alexander as players, we're not expecting perfection, but hoping that they're learning from past mistakes and getting better and better and better with experience.
As long as they're with the Packers, I'm rooting for them to overcome and to excel. If they show real and sustainable improvement, I'm glad to put their failures in the past in order to celebrate how far they've come in the present. I want them to succeed and stay around.
This game against the 49ers is a big test for all the coaches and players, and it'll be exciting to watch how they respond.
My biggest bit of humble advice would be for them to remember that it's football, and to do what they would if they were playing in the backyard in one of those friendly neighborhood games that nonetheless becomes highly competitive and maybe even locally memorable: Have fun, fight all the way through, and savor the moment.
Then, no regrets.
cheesehead1
January 18, 2024 at 10:59 am
Hoping our O line continues its stellar play, no turnovers, and we need the best game from our D and a couple takeways. I know that’s alot to ask but whatever happens this team has surprised everyone. GPG.
Starrbrite
January 18, 2024 at 11:24 am
The 9’rs are to us what we are to the Cowboys.
Speaking of selling their soul for a SB; I don’t like John Lynch or Shanahans.
Shanahan is to LaFluer, like the friend we all have, who is a thorn in our side—under our skin. The friend that barely beats us at golf, or cards, or wins the door prize. The friend you pretend to love but would love to see mistakenly placed on the terrorist watch list and prohibited from entering the U.S..
In any case, I believe the 9’rs defense is much shakier than the experts report—we can score on these guys. Moreover, Love is better than Purdy and we’re gonna intercept him once or twice.
If we steal one/two possessions and Carlson makes all his kicks—we win.
Go Packers!!!
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 12:43 pm
Love and the kids will make it so Carlson can miss an extra point if he has to. He makes the youngsters shine.
Long as we stay confident, we may as well go BIG.
UdderApocowlipse
January 18, 2024 at 02:30 pm
I've read quite enough of this first seventh seeded team to win a playoff game distraction. It's certainly true, but this is the first year the playoffs have had seventh seeds. Sure enough, one of those teams won. Big deal. Don't let the damning with faint praise be a distraction.
T7Steve
January 18, 2024 at 02:36 pm
Started after the 2019 season I believe.