Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - Dismember the Titans!
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
Well, that was fun, wasn't it? I have to admit to being really worried about this game - mostly if the Packers could score enough points. I could not have foreseen how poised, efficient and mistake-free Malik Willis would be against what I considered to be a much a better defense than what he faced in the Colts game. Imagine being the Titans' GM and head coach knowing you didn't think Willis was worthy of even a practice squad spot on your team. It's gotta hurt.
I want Jodan Love back in the worst way, but I can't lie - I'm going to miss Willis' ability to scramble out of trouble.
The Screen Pass - Based on how below average the Packers have been running screens to running backs, perhaps the successful screen play we saw in this game is deserving to be memorialized as "The Screen Pass." I've written about screen passes a lot in this space, mostly because I still look back fondly to High School freshman football, where I earned the unimaginative but appropriate nickname "Mr. Screen." It seems I was really good at one thing (and pretty much only one thing) as a left tackle and that was getting downfield and wiping out linebackers or defensive backs with cut blocks (yes, still very legal way back then). Anyway, watching the Packers try to run screen plays the last few years, I felt it was the timing that was always off. In most cases, the linemen would release too soon. One of the reasons why I think this play worked so well was the added twist of the post-snap misdirection. That forced the linemen to stay a bit longer and also the misdirection drew Titans defenders to the wrong side of the field. It was a nice little twist added to the usual staid old screen pass to the running back.
The penalties - From the second quarter on, every time the Packers offense had a big play, I refused to let myself be happy until I could confirm there were no flags. I sat there stone-faced until I was absolutely sure and then I let out a yeah! Dear Packers, I don't want to live this way. I want to live in the moment and celebrate as soon as my team does something good. Please fix this penalties problem. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
And now for something completely different , The Larch... I mean, the defense.
I have to admit things didn't look good for the Packers defense on the Titans' first drive of the game. They had obviously pinpointed a weakness in the Packers' defense (linebackers in coverage) and it was working beautifully. Four of their five completed passes on that drive went to tight ends working over the linebackers. If this was 2023, we likely would have seen this scenario repeated ad nauseam, but alas, this is 2024 and we now MAKE ADJUSTMENTS! And we make them quickly, and they work. Amazing!
Two-score lead - If you watched the Jets game last Thursday night, you saw what looked like a tense exchange between Aaron Rodgers and Robert Saleh. It turns out that Rodgers yelled "two-score lead" in Saleh's face after the Jets had scored a touchdown. Seems Saleh talks a lot about giving the defense a two-score lead so he can turn up the heat and more aggressively attack on defense. I think you saw it with Jeff Hafley where he seriously turned up the heat on Will Levis with the Packers holding a two score lead.
Van Ness - I see one main issue with Lukas Van Ness, and that is balance. He's fast, he's physical, he's aggressive, but he's on the ground way too often, usually because he's been knocked off balance. Maybe he's flying around too fast for his own good where his momentum can cause him to lose his balance when hit a certain way? I'm really not sure what is going on, or what the fix is, but I do see him picking himself up off the ground way too often.
For the podcast complainers - For those of you who have been complaining about some things here moving to podcasts, I get it. I'd rather read a good article than listen to it as a podcast. But in the year 2024, we are in the minority and this site wouldn't survive without the podcasts. Why? Because YouTube streams and podcasts are the only things that brings in any significant revenue and hosting this site is not inexpensive. The articles will always be here, that's not going away, but we have to create audio/video content to earn advertising revenue and pay our bills. It's just a fact of life in the year 2024.
Go Pack Go
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"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of various hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He's a lifetime Packers fan living in the land of the Giants (and Jets). Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP.
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Comments (125)
jaxpackfan
September 25, 2024 at 06:30 am
Good read, as usual. And, thanks for the explanation regarding the podcasts. I will stop complaining.
NickPerry
September 25, 2024 at 06:38 am
"For the podcast complainers - For those of you who have been complaining about some things here moving to podcasts, I get it. I'd rather read a good article than listen to it as a podcast."
I'm not sure what you're talking about Al, but I've been really busy this last month or two. I'm GUESSING you're talking about "Gut Reactions" on Sundays although I didn't look at that as a Podcast really. People don't like the video of Gut Reactions and just want the bullet points to be brought back. Personally I'm in that group as well. I've been here for years and years and always enjoyed those pieces by Nags. You can see by the number of comments have gone WAY down each Sunday on Gut Reactions. I remember some Sundays with 200 comments. People don't want to watch a video...Just my 2 cents worth.
...I mean I get WHY you have Podcasts...Just not for Gut Reactions. Somethings are better left alone.
JerseyAl
September 25, 2024 at 06:56 am
Yes gut reactions, but Aaron has just too many balls to juggle during and after games now. With Gut reactions on Youtube, you can join in the conversation live, and a ton of people love that. So we're actually pleasing a larger audience.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 07:46 am
In other words Nagler’s videos are now the driver of traffic and thus income. I appreciate the candid admission. It’s not for me: I actually watch him less now he out there more and no longer come here after games. I personally don’t want to chat live or watch, I want to see a take and people’s comments in a digestible way that can fit around my activities.
Unless I’m the only one, or the written content is now merely the filler and we that seek that therefore essentially commercially unimportant, I would suggest a similar piece by someone else to the old gut reactions and the Good the Bad and the Ugly. It could well be that ALLGBP and Nagler vision antecedents never were as compatible in vision or ambition. One I like and regularly frequent, the other I can pass on and ever more frequently do.
Just my take. If the money is from the podcasts, I understand. For him it’s a living. For me it’s a choice. One I’m willing to be candid about because it’s always dangerous to mess with the long standing users, unless you are really sure of the primacy of the economics.
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 08:16 am
"I would suggest a similar piece by someone else to the old gut reactions and the Good the Bad and the Ugly. "
Agreed. There are several good and entertaining writers here. They could easily generate a "takeaways" or "decompression" article post game. If not the staff, why not ask a regular to "guest spot" each week?
We understand the economics of running the site. There's a very loyal and broad contingent of site followers here, and most are following the articles and the print. Nags can do his thing, but the readership has created a demand for something, and we hope that management can respond.
jurp
September 25, 2024 at 08:34 am
To your point, and as I've posted before, there are apps that turn speech into text, so it's actually fairly simple to dictate a list for the Gut Reactions and have it fairly quickly become publishable on this site. Same with the Good, bad, and Ugly post.
"it’s always dangerous to mess with the long standing users, unless you are really sure of the primacy of the economics."
Absolutely 100% correct. Judging by the rapidly declining comments on most posts, including the podcasts/videos, the rot may have already set in, although comments do not necessarily equate to clicks.
NickPerry
September 25, 2024 at 04:15 pm
That's why i love this site...Al took the time to explain...
Thanks Al... I won't stand in the way of progress.
WestCoastPackerBacker
September 25, 2024 at 05:49 pm
Yeah thanks for the explanation Al. I can appreciate the reasons. But I just don't want to watch a gut reactions. Just doesn't work for me. Wish he could do both. A quick written article followed by a discussion?
I don't know what kind of traffic you're pulling in on the video gut reactions, but I wish there was a way to bring back the written one. Sometimes they were very short. Nags is just way different on a video than in articles.
GregC
September 25, 2024 at 06:59 am
It's mainly Gut Reactions that people complain about, but some have complained that there is too much video content in general, which makes them less likely to visit the site. It doesn't bother me because there is still a lot of written content here--at least an article per day, and usually more like three or four.
JerseyAl
September 25, 2024 at 07:01 am
Exactly. As long as I'm around, you'll always have at least 2-3 articles a day.
LambeauPlain
September 25, 2024 at 08:21 am
Thank you, Sir!
ottscay
September 25, 2024 at 11:07 am
I will always support this site, and I don't resent the need to chase revenue from audio/video viewers, but I am never going to consume those things, as I personally have zero interest in them.
On the other hand, changing Gut Reactions IS going to create resentment, because it's removing hugely popular content from the fans who supported the site the last decade, and a popular form of fan social interaction on the site. I know it's literally how I trained my browsing habits to come to CHTV after every game, a habit that is now rapidly fading. Removing content like this is far more corrosive than adding new video/podcast-only content, and economic explanations won't alter that, no matter how reasonable. I would strongly recommend sticking with adding new content for A/V visitors rather than transitioning existing content.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 11:45 am
Since you are behind the scenes in some aspect of this site, please look into the speech to text thing. Those complaining about "too many videos" would be happy with just as many videos if they were also converted into text and posted here. Even if that part came out later. It's no exaggeration that we can read in 2 minutes what takes 20-40 in a video. That extra time simply isn't available for a lot of GB fans.
PeteK
September 25, 2024 at 11:26 am
I do enjoy the Packers Playbook video breakdowns, I guess its the ex football coach in me. :)
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 11:48 am
Film analysis is THE main thing I come here for! Especially wrt line play, I just don't have the background to be able to understand what's going on there without some help. So I'm not against videos, and that stuff can't be translated to text.
It's the rest of the stuff that can be read, and I understand the push against that disappearing from view.
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 01:09 pm
I like the combination of the plays with written explanations like Dusty used to do with the Passing Chronicles and even Al last week with A Dusty video. Dusty gives the written play call and breaks it all down with diagrams then shows the actual play on the field. If I go over them enough, I can see them happening during the game. Unfortunately, I STILL can't remember the exact play calls all the way down to the blocking assignments. Maybe I got a C or a D in the class. Gives me a deep respect for these youngsters playing the game and learning this stuff as they go.
LambeauPlain
September 25, 2024 at 07:23 am
I am with you regarding Gut Reactions, Nick. Comments to a site piece indicate interest (if comments are allowed). Gut Reactions will likely join most of the other podcasts on CHTV...most not listened to.
Showing my ignorance about the value of podcasts...but if few listen to them, how is the revenue generated? If few listeners are clicking on the audio, how does advertiser benefit?
Maybe the ears will replace the eyes in absorbing information and knowledge, but I doubt audio books are dominating hard copy or electronic books.
Probably for a simple reason...most people read and comprehend much faster by reading than by listening. And when a podcast is mostly verbal with little visual (as in You Tube videos), the listening experience is far less interesting.
JerseyAl
September 25, 2024 at 07:38 am
"Showing my ignorance about the value of podcasts...but if few listen to them, how is the revenue generated? If few listeners are clicking on the audio, how does advertiser benefit?"
I doubt you're ignorant, but maybe just "under-informed"? Thousands of people listen to our shows on youtube. For example, Aaron and Andy Herman's "let's talk football" show from yesterday already has over 11,000 views in just 24 hours.
There's a whole other content world out there that you are just not familiar with. And that's where the advertisers and sponsors want to be.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 07:51 am
The thing is, does it have to be either/or? It’s great that you have so many views. I don’t think anyone here is upset by that, but that seems to me a different window not one that needs to be exclusive, as it seems to be perceived from your comments.
Guam
September 25, 2024 at 08:24 am
"The thing is does it have to be either/or?
Cookie for ColdWorld!
Most folks under 50 watch podcasts - most folks over 50 prefer the written word. I understand time constraints and workload, but when you opt to do only one or the other you are, by definition, excluding a substantial chunk of the marketplace. There are much larger advertising revenue streams from podcasts, but I suspect most donations are from the older written crowd.
Maybe "Gut Reactions" could be done both ways (and not necessarily both done by Nagler) to appeal to both market segments.
Bitternotsour
September 25, 2024 at 09:37 am
I'm an old. The articles here are less a draw than the message boards for me. If you look at the commenters you get a sense of why the podcasts are so critical to the site's survival, because we have like 40 active posters who kick it around, and they have thousands checking in on the pods. Add to that the non-stop bitching about pop-ups and well, there's not too much money in digital print. We are the dinosaurs. If I didn't detest the oligarchic south african fascist and the site formerly known as Twitter, I guess I could have a similar back and forth on that platform. I'm playing around on Reddit, but prefer it for r/Gunners than football at this point. r/GreenBayPackers has 400,000 plus members so there's a discussion going on most of the time. Nonetheless, there are people here I'd truly miss if the print side went down.
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 10:43 am
We are dinosaurs. Watch out with your political comments. Remember how much trouble I got in before the Brazil game when I thought I was just trying to be funny.
Gman1976
September 25, 2024 at 05:04 pm
A "fascist?!" Calling someone who believes in free speech and who has fought much of the modern censorship of the the left is slander. I don't know what you have been taught nor read, but fascists have historically censored others and promoted violence against others. The WW2 German Nazis (national socialists) are a prime example.
The_Justicar
September 25, 2024 at 05:08 pm
I have come to embrace some podcasts but prefer the written word. However, while I read while at home or chilling somewhere…when jogging or driving I’ll listen to podcasts so i utilize both formats.
Since I started with the written gut reactions….i Miss it. Don’t listen to the pod. But I listen to Andy’s podcast all the time.
crayzpackfan
September 25, 2024 at 09:30 am
Cold - I agree with your take 100 percent it shouldn't be either/or. I think the heads at CHTV though don't want their website to compete directly against itself by pulling viewers away from the video/YouTube/podcast stuff to this site where they can read and comment. I'm sure they are doing the math behind the scenes. It is likely your wishes along with many, many others here won't be realized.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 05:12 pm
The impression I get is that neither Al nor those commenting see much overlap post game. Let Nagler keep his bylines by all means—it was the timeliness and ability to track comments silently and at one’s convenience that brought us in I suspect, not Nagler so much. Let another write the equivalent of the 2 pieces—which Nagler had been trying to drop for at least 2 seasons when he obviously wasn’t so busy it turned out. I figured he’d pass the baton.
Sorry, but it seems as much hubris as economic sense to turn your back on a segment of your audience that is additional to those of post game pod casts and separate from it. It’s also, as has been pointed out, largely made up of the people whose clicks CHTV to a point where he can sit in front of a camera regularly.
LambeauPlain
September 25, 2024 at 08:50 am
And there are a whole lot of content worlds out there I am familiar with and choose to abandon because they do not interest me.
Grandfathered
September 25, 2024 at 07:18 pm
In the past I had not listened to podcasts, but I started doing so this Spring and I went from 1 per month to 1 or more per week. I found you have to try them a few times before you can decide whether you like them. And having one on in the background while doing other things is nice. I stained my deck to Nagler, Perri and Maggie this summer.
Grandfathered
September 25, 2024 at 07:37 pm
Al, you have good enough writers to add a feature. Let Aaron do his audio " Gut Reactions" you could have someone write "First Reads".
Ferrari-Driver
September 25, 2024 at 10:40 pm
Al, love your articles and I will add a comment about the addition of Andy Herman to your website. For some time now, I make it a point to view his podcasts and I am truly impressed with his finished products. Like many here, I cover a written article much quicker than I do listening to the same information being spoken. I will admit that you and Andy have become my two favorites among a large group of talented contributors on Cheesehead TV. I hope all of you stick around.
Tater
September 25, 2024 at 10:47 am
I’m a grumpy old man.
I don’t like the way things are now compared to how they used to be.
I don’t like podcasts.
In my day we had newspapers.
You had to wait until the next morning to read Gut Reactions.
And we liked it.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 12:00 pm
"And there we were, our feet nailed to our skis with our hair on fire! We didn't need any "safety equipment," lol.
Tundraboy
September 25, 2024 at 01:57 pm
I agree here. I understand the reasons, but one segment, much like what Al excels at in writing wouldn't hurt or dilute anything.
And I will say one thing, to me "Gut"reactions by definition implies instant gratification and we have spoken!
Doug_In_Sandpoint
September 25, 2024 at 04:25 pm
Just one more take from a guy who has been here for a while. One of the huge reasons I am a daily consumer of CHTV is the comments section. I watch a bunch of Aaron's videos, but usually not live as my schedule doesn't always work that way. I'd bet that he videos don't get the comments that the written articles do.
I believe that the written Gut Reactions was so popular (and therefore so missed) because it was posted just after the end of the game. We all had our own opinions that we added immediately so it wasn't just Aaron's bullets. We had just witnessed the game and were hot to share our takes. Gut reactions formed the narrative for the rest of the week like cooling lava.
And we all enjoyed FartsAfterWins.
What if you just put up a post called "Fan Reactions" immediately after the game? No content needed at all. Just let us throw out our opinions while the game is fresh in our beer-addled brains.
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 07:01 am
I have to (again) give Myers his due on that screen pass. He made an excellent downfield block. Another thing to point out is that Wilson helped his blockers get set up by going the right directions and cutting at the right time. I think this is something that can't be taught. A back just has a feel for it or he doesn't.
Sorry, Al. I haven't complained, but I don't do any of the audio stuff because I follow CHTV while I'm working. I'll keep supporting how I can by buying the draft guide and stuff. Pluss, there seems to be no shortage of adds on these pages.
JerseyAl
September 25, 2024 at 07:08 am
Unfortunately, ads on the site bring in a fraction of what youtube ads bring and sponsors are only interested in video content now. Unfortunate, but that's just the way it is. We have had to adapt to be able to stay relevant and keep CheeseheadTV alive and well.
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 07:12 am
No problem. Keep her going.
Thanks, Al!!!
LambeauPlain
September 25, 2024 at 07:58 am
That's a bingo on Myers! I have been critical of his run blocking but he did his job with excellent timing and execution on the play opening door #1 on the play.
Another shout out to Rhyan who trailed Myers perfectly and opened door #2.
Then here comes Wilson, who has a unique skillset of crazy good patience seeing his blocks ahead but then cutting behind them in a flash. In fact on that play he darted behind 3 blocks 0n his trip to the end zone.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 01:49 pm
I hope this stuff is not mothballed when JL10 comes back. We needed it last season, we need it this season, we'll need it next season ...
Keeping opposing defenses with NO idea what's coming seems like a good game plan to me!
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 08:18 am
Well noted. As much as people have gotten after him, "Contract Year" Myers has been quietly good this season.
That was a beautiful play. Well-blocked downfield, and Wilson did what he needed to do--he made the first guy miss and he followed his blocks. I could watch that play over and over.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 01:51 pm
Hopefully we'll see it again - in the Superbowl!
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 01:39 pm
An interesting comment from Mr Mike Wahle: when asked if Josh Myers has improved, he said let's wait for a larger sample size.
As much as Josh Jacobs has been earning his keep, Sunday's game will be Aaron Jones' first game against the Pack and will be very challenging for a bunch of other reasons too ...
GPG!
GregC
September 25, 2024 at 07:03 am
I love screen passes--I mean when the Packers run them and they actually work, which is not that often. It's funny that national TV announcers will still say that the Packers are a good screen team. That must be in their notes when they prepare to call a Packer game. I don't think the Packers have been a good screen team since the days of Mike Holmgren. You are right about the misdirection being important to that play. Also, it was a nice throw by Malik Willis. Screen passes are more difficult than they look.
Cheezehead72
September 25, 2024 at 07:14 am
Favre was a master at the screen as he had the guts to sit there and take the hit. I believe Rodgers did not like the screen as there was always the chance of him getting hit so we decreased using them and of course were not that good.
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 08:20 am
"It's funny that national TV announcers will still say that the Packers are a good screen team. "
I cringe every time I hear that, too.
When you re-watch the play, you have to give props to Willis who had a DE bearing down on him and he still had the presence to deliver the ball so Wilson could make a play.
jannesbjornson
September 25, 2024 at 08:49 am
Walker's minimal chip on the DE didn't do Willis any favors. He needs to engage longer, then release. The two-way motions helped split the defenders into two zones. A perfectly designed play.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 01:40 pm
Timing!
Cheezehead72
September 25, 2024 at 07:09 am
Looking forward to the game on Sunday. This will be a good game. The one issue I have is it is our day to watch the grandkids. That means I will not be able to watch the game completely and because it is not being televised in my area then I will not be able to record it. But grandkids come first and I will have it on my computer and watch as I can. Good thing is they will be taking a nap during the game.
Ok offensively we need to run the ball. Being that the Vikings blitz a lot the Packers need to run Jacobs up the middle and Wilson on the outside with misdirection and screens. Now they can change up with using the RBs differenly at times. When passing they will need to get Love or Willis out of the pocket.
Defense the front four must get pressure on Darnold so the remaining seven can cover. I am concerned about the tackling. Jones might have a big day. They also need to watch the middle crossing routes. I bet the Vikings will use crossing routes a lot.
My pick for this week is a tough one. I say the Packers win a close one so I take the Vikings and the points. So the Packers win by one or two.
As for the pod cast. I do not watch or listen to them. I want to read an article. I am old school. I get more out of reading an article than watching a pod cast. I would be good with half each.
TKWorldWide
September 25, 2024 at 07:12 am
Well done, Al, thanks! I always look forward to Confessions.
Plus, you had me at Monty Python. Big fan. Going out to jog now. I hope I don’t cross paths with that rabbit; he’s dynamite.
greengold
September 25, 2024 at 09:19 am
Are we wreckin' the sketch?
TKWorldWide
September 25, 2024 at 09:37 am
LOL
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 09:26 am
We can't risk another frontal assault...
TKWorldWide
September 25, 2024 at 09:37 am
Double LOL
Packers0808
September 25, 2024 at 07:39 am
I have never watched a podcast on here and never will, so I have no need to complain. I just don't like podcasts and never no matter the subject. Being 80 years old and set in ways I am sure the reason. But on another note that screen pass being an old coach was a thing of beauty. Can't think of seeing a thing wrong with that execution, but imagine someone did. Enjoy your comments, Al.
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 08:22 am
Podcasts are often vanity fairs, and I get it: the regular viewers are often entertained by the personalities. I often find them to be droll and self-aggradizing chuckleheads mugging for the camera.
PackAttackJack
September 25, 2024 at 10:20 am
I agree. I would be somewhat more likely to take a look at them if the info provided was properly edited. Nagler tends to take 8-10 minutes of material and stretch it out to 25 minutes. Say what you gotta say and be done with it.
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 12:35 pm
This is why the talk-to-text app wouldn't be terribly helpful here for "Gut Reactions"
Packers0808
September 25, 2024 at 11:58 am
Exactly, to me they waste their time and mine talking in circles.
RCPackerFan
September 25, 2024 at 07:43 am
The Screen Pass -
It was great to see them finally have a successful screen. And when I say successful, I mean Wilson almost had to do no juking or anything. He caught it made a bit of a move an essentially ran straight forward 30+ yards. it was amazing.
The penalties -
These definitely need to be cleaned up. Some of the calls seemed to be ticky tacky. But they need to clean them up. Also they need to clean up the pre snap stuff.
"but alas, this is 2024 and we now MAKE ADJUSTMENTS! And we make them quickly, and they work. Amazing!"
That is one big thing that I have seen from Hafley so far, is that is is able/willing to make adjustments. Its been a while since we have had a DC that can change things on the fly.
Two-score lead -
When we got to the 4th quarter with the 2 score lead it was a different game for the defense. They just said attack and they attacked. It was so damn beautiful.
For the podcast complainers -
I love listening to stuff. I like the written pieces, but having stuff in podcast/youtube video formats, is great. I can listen to it while working or whatever. Just keep doing what you are doing. Great website!
Go Pack Go!
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 07:55 am
Beautifully blocked, but watch how Wilson reads them and changes speed and angle to capitalize on them. Thats what makes it look so easy. A very impressive piece of play by all concerned.
PackEyedOptimist
September 25, 2024 at 07:48 am
Lots of good stuff here, Al.
I'll start with the podcast topic: I almost never watch ANY podcasts of ANYTHING; however, everyone I know who is under age 50 (I'm almost 70) watches them A LOT. Folks, keep in mind, if you're here reading and commenting on the articles, you're probably over 50 and you are someone who likes to read/write. Don't be misled by your self-imposed bubble.
Luckily, other readers kicked in with their own bullet points after this last game--I hope that continues!
VanNess: I think he's a berserker type; he flies around like the Tasmanian devil. That's why he isn't good with techniques and why he is on the ground a lot. It's okay to have one guy like him, but that's all a defense can support before it falls apart. I also think it may limit his ability to become a starter, as team's will game-plan to expose a guy like that.
Screens: They take a lot of practice, so if you want a complex offense, I think it's hard to fit in enough practice time. Hopefully, if the OL and skill positions spend enough years together, they will get in enough practice to always have a few GOOD screens in their back pocket.
Love/Willis. Against the Vikings good defensive line, I'd only start Love if he is truly 100%, and I think that's very unlikely. Willis has earned enough confidence to keep starting until Love is TRULY healthy, or until Willis has a bad game. I'd personally dress Love to be ready in case things just aren't working out for Willis in this game, or in case he gets injured, as it's an important game, so we'd rather not have Clifford play in it at all.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 08:04 am
I watch podcasts. But I like them short pithy and information rich. I don’t watch “chats on camera”. I’m not a fan of what I see as radio on TV.
I also don’t watch them post game because that’s not conducive to real life for me, and I think that is the source of difference here—unless Al, TGR or others suddenly need camera love.
By the time I get around to that, there’s more in depth or pithy content out there if I want it. I will likely check out the Dusty and Kuhn piece today.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 01:57 pm
Yes, the goal with JL10 is to have him at peak performance for at least a decade. Let him heal, and fortunately we're not in dire straights while he does.
stockholder
September 25, 2024 at 07:58 am
The best things in Life are Free.
If it's not in writing it's hear say.
Now that we have the screen pass working.
Where is the shovel pass.?
Speaking of missing Love -
Rodgers never looked better.
So does Willis have a chance to make 55 mil now?
I'm waiting for the toxic environment to start.
We can always use more draft picks.
Gute drafted Lbs-
And yet it's still a problem.
Packers0808
September 25, 2024 at 08:14 am
Yup against low ranking teams.
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 08:26 am
"So does Willis have a chance to make 55 mil now?"
If some GM thinks he can be a quality QB and is willing to offer up appropriate capital this offseason, I'm all for taking it.
"Speaking of missing Love -
Rodgers never looked better."
Who?
Since'61
September 25, 2024 at 09:49 am
Cookie for Dobber! Thanks, Since '61
crayzpackfan
September 25, 2024 at 09:41 am
"Now that we have the screen pass working.
Where is the shuttle pass.?"
Isn't it a shovel pass?
stockholder
September 25, 2024 at 11:40 am
yes It is
correction made for you..
jannesbjornson
September 25, 2024 at 12:59 pm
A high risk play. Most teams can't even execute a draw play anymore. They work the outside. Harrison and Bullard will be hard to control inside. Greenlaw and Van Ginkel are holding court on the edge. Another Badger LB he didn't draft. Blake Cashman added. Flores basically told the GM to dump all the slugs you drafted and get me Players. Nine veterans brought onboard by the shipwrecked sailors from the prairie. Pettine is running the Edge guys.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 01:59 pm
Hey, if there's no rule against throwing from the shuttle bus ;)
tobinrote
September 25, 2024 at 08:05 am
you also have to like the way E Wilson read his blockers just right. we have found ourselves a very nice rb in him, one i would like to see get a whole lot more snaps.
Major Snafu
September 25, 2024 at 08:12 am
Thanks Al, we appreciate your efforts. Those of us still here on this site have noticed a major drop in participation due to the pidcasts format. Hopefully it doesnt kill this site.
My only comparison is there was a popular nfl website that all of a sudden dropped comments. It was a fun place to yo read comments, artcles by analysts etc.
Everything changed. I quit and suspect thousands of others did leaving the analyst to talk to themseves I guess.
Never went back. Podcasts arent that great for some people is all.
JerseyAl
September 25, 2024 at 09:47 am
You get several articles every day here, all open to comments. The existence of podcasts has not changed that and it won't.
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 10:58 am
I didn't think this was going to be such a big deal. You must have developed a great backbone being the "Screen Man".
Thanks again.
LeotisHarris
September 25, 2024 at 08:44 am
Thanks, Al. Going forward, you will always be Mr. Screen to me.
Creative, professional podcasts are a joy to listen to/watch. Skilled podcasters are clear and articulate in their messaging and have chemistry with their regular guests. They understand the medium and use its strengths to their advantage, understanding their the audience is relying on how information is presented. When done' with skill, the audience doesn't want the conversation to stop. Here. Andy Herman and Mike Wahle provide that experience.
Podcasts lose eyes and ears quickly when the host makes it all about them. They lose them even faster when the visuals are distracting or unpleasant and the messaging disjointed.
So ends the Epistle of Leotis. Go forth and be happy, then.
MooPack
September 25, 2024 at 09:12 am
“ Andy Herman and Mike Wahle provide that experience.”
Agree. The only ones I will watch are Herman and Wahle.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 05:30 pm
I will watch a few, but here it’s Herman and I will watch Dusty and Kuhn too. Wahle and a few others do good, focused, informative things with video that is not just a talking head but part of the content. I listen to Herman’s not watch, typically. I appreciate him giving us the option, for practical accessibility reasons.
greengold
September 25, 2024 at 09:53 am
I find "Confessions of Polluted Screen Time," to be concise. to the point, apprpos. Loaded with double & triple entendres.
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 12:38 pm
Second Leotis, Chapter 2, Verse 12
TKWorldWide
September 25, 2024 at 01:11 pm
As easy as counting “One, two, five!”
“Three, sir!”
“Three!”
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 02:02 pm
Where's Brother Maynard when you need him?
dobber
September 25, 2024 at 02:45 pm
Apparently in an extensive supporting clergical caravan that has been following off-camera for the preceding hour of screen time.
LambeauPlain
September 25, 2024 at 09:00 am
Lots of comments today! Ironically, many written about "podcasts".
TKWorldWide
September 25, 2024 at 01:13 pm
Yes!
I just recorded a podcast ABOUT podcasts, but no one listened to it.
I thought I’d captured the magic of “The Coffee Table Book about Coffee Tables.”
I was mistaken.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 05:42 pm
Can’t prop up a coffee or hold a door open with a pod cast.
greengold
September 25, 2024 at 09:02 am
The misdirection is, in and of itself, misdirection. Chef's kiss.
btw, Al, you guys do whatever you need to do to keep this MF cooking with gas. Thank you for all of you & yours' collective CHTV efforts to provide this gem.
Time to buy more CHTV gear...
Screens. They’ve evolved, and continue to with LaFleur leading the way. At one time, a powerful play. Trending showed them to diminish in effectiveness over the last few decades, as defenses/players became more adept at sniffing them out. LaFleur’ & others have recently been showing some magic with them in new play designs. Having the maulers, the destroyers up front helps to make them effective, and I believe we are in need of more help there, especially at LT.
—
Penalties. Again, we are in need of more help there, especially at LT. Despite Walker’s penalties, and a couple missed blocks, he still allowed just one QB pressure and zero sacks. Maybe Walker is able to improve to make penalties a non-factor. Veteran LG Elgton Jenkins had two penalties. Let’s clean it up, gentlemen.
—
The D. 7 picks in 2024 after Game 3, after having just 7 total for the entire 2023 season… We should have WAY more, but this is an improvement
8 sacks v. TEN??? I’m freaking loving the pressure we are seeing from Hafley’s D.
To Al’s point, I’d love to see our LBs working more on their coverage skills, taking practice reps with the DBs…
It is still early, but the Packers D currently ranks #6 in 3rd Down D, #10 in Rushing D and #12 in Scoring D. Still have work to do, as our Overall D ranks #20, Passing D ranks #22, and our Red Zone D ranks #21.
FYI: Packers D ranks #16 in Sacks with 48, #31 in DEF INT with 7, #19 in Points Allowed and #12 in PA/G at 19.3.
—
Two Score Lead? More. More. More. Great song, btw.
—
Van Ness finding the turf on occasion? That’s just the physics of a huge amount of mass/power being shoved off course. I agree with what Gregg alluded to in his “Tasmanian Devil,” referrence. While I'd rather he's upright and plowing down ball carriers & QBs constantly, I'll take that energy which provides pressure like that all day. Van Ness and the rest of this D is learning with every game played, and I expect he will continue his noticeable improvement from 2023.
PackEyedOptimist
September 25, 2024 at 11:05 am
When did I become "Gregg?" :-D
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 02:05 pm
We will call you George
greengold
September 26, 2024 at 12:50 pm
lolz.
You actually read this..?
barutanseijin
September 25, 2024 at 04:24 pm
Pad level!
NFLfan
September 25, 2024 at 09:07 am
The demographic that prefers the written pieces on this site are likely in the 60+ age range. I base this on the many references to lengthy careers, upper management positions, 'long--term Packer fan', grandkids, etc. There is a bit of rigidity of opinion in this group as well.
I prefer written articles too but social media marches on and advertising recognizes the younger generation is the market which holds the most power. (And, they grew up with the podcast medium)
i expect downvotes-that's fine.
Bitternotsour
September 25, 2024 at 09:46 am
I don't think there's any denying the age of the posters. these are the discussions we might have on barstools, in a different era, and there is a lot of retiree energy on this site. people set in their ways and beliefs. that's what works for me.
downvotes are emojis - they don't mean anything other than someone bothered to read your post.
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 11:07 am
I use the upvote to mark the posts I've read so I can quickly go through at a later time to find additions to the conversations. It really hasn't anything to do with like or dislike or if I join in the conversation.
GregC
September 25, 2024 at 09:44 am
There are so many things in Al's articles that I completely agree with, so I never comment on them. He says it better than I could say it. I just want to acknowledge that.
As for the podcast thing, I don't think there's much for us to complain about. All we have to do is ignore the videos if we're not interested in them. There are still plenty of articles here. I like the videos with Andy and Aaron exchanging their impressions after games. Andy can be long-winded, but that format keeps him on point. I think he and Aaron both have solid football minds and are better-informed than I am, so I appreciate their takes.
greengold
September 25, 2024 at 10:06 am
Yeah. To all of this. Different strokes for different folks. They're making it all work. I like both the articles and the podcasts here.
With podcasts, I like seeing people's facial expressions when they're explaining certain aspects of a gametime situation, or a player's ability, a coach's decision, etc. The perfect block, blah, blah, blah.
Context. It hits different. Andy Herman... watching & listening to him explain something is very different from reading one of his articles. More info to gather. However, I get how written content is easier to access/reference.
To me, there's nothing to complain about with Al, Corey & Aaron leading the way on this together to keep the place Packers content rich.
Thank you, CHTV.
LambeauPlain
September 25, 2024 at 11:00 am
Hey, is that brown shoe polish on your nose? :-)
(sorry G&G, couldn't resist!)
greengold
September 25, 2024 at 11:04 am
I know...You are a child.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 05:56 pm
If he were he’d be chatting on podcasts
Since'61
September 25, 2024 at 10:03 am
It was 5 or more years ago when AL first wrote in one of his articles that CHTV was going to be doing more podcasts, and videos etc as part of CHTVs daily coverage of the Packers. I replied to Al that I understood it was a matter of revenue and of keeping CHTV a free site for us rather than a paid subscription site.
All that just makes sense for the site and for us who participate on the site.
I also mentioned in my response to Al that CHTV and Jersey Als ALLGBP before the merger had a strong community of solid posters who make excellent comments and who generate great discussions among ourselves. I said to Al that I hope the CHTV transition to other media does not hurt the community which has evolved over the years among the CHTV participants.
It seems that the participants are becoming divided between the different media approaches (written versus video/audio). However it also seems to me that the original community of posters is remaining together with the written articles. I hope that continues because for me that has always been the best part of the site.
AL I am happy to read that there will continue to be 2 or 3 written articles per day for the foreseeable future as I enjoy not only reading the articles but the ensuing comments and discussions. This has been my Packers site for 15 years now so I'm not going anywhere and I still believe that it is the best Packers site available. Thanks Al and Nags for everything that you do. Keep it coming and Go Pack Go! Thanks, Since '61
greengold
September 25, 2024 at 10:09 am
same
JerseyAl
September 25, 2024 at 12:51 pm
Here, folks, are the words of a true gentleman. Thank you so much for your 15 YEARS!?! of support.
Since'61
September 25, 2024 at 01:42 pm
Al, I appreciate your comment. I can only say that it has been my pleasure to be part of ALLGBP and then CHTV after the merger. Here's to keeping it going as a team/community of Staff, Writers, and Bloggers.
Thanks, Since '61
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 05:53 pm
I don’t object to podcast content unless it’s taking away something I do come here for. If it’s expanding content, why object? I don’t object to anything other than Gut Reactions & G, B & U on game days disappearing in written form. I don’t object to them being penned by A.N. Other or even Al’s friend Ed Wood. The point was to come here and see one persons reactions and then the reactions of others in turn.
My sense is that’s pretty much what everyone in the community is saying, unless I’m missing something. It’s not a general issue with pod casts , but a specific one about removal of particular content we all have been coming here for so long. Ultimately, it’s just feedback from a long time and regular clicker and commenter.
Starrbrite
September 25, 2024 at 10:09 am
Ah-yes, the screen pass—my favorite play.
I recall years ago on MNF, Howard Cosell raving about how the Starr coached team (and OC Bob Schnelker) had rejuvenated the screen pass. Lynn Dickey to Eddie Lee Ivery or Gerry Ellis—and sometimes Paul Coffman—it was poetry in motion.
I agree with Al, the past few years, the timing seems sloppy. Aaron Jones was good at it, but I believe Jacobs (and Wilson) can make this a signature play.
Stomp the Vikings—
Go Packers!!!
Spock
September 25, 2024 at 10:35 am
Guam,"The thing is does it have to be either/or?"
Dobber, "I would suggest a similar piece by someone else to the old gut reactions and the Good the Bad and the Ugly. " Agreed. There are several good and entertaining writers here. They could easily generate a "takeaways" or "decompression" article post game. If not the staff, why not ask a regular to "guest spot" each week?
Me (Spock): I agree with this idea. I really enjoy(ed) the quick "Gut Reactions" bullet points. Can we at least have some sort of "Post Game Bullet Points" written article, either separate or attached to Nagler's podcast? I don't always get the tv game here in AZ (case in point the last two games) and although I love to listen to Larry and Wayne it is helpful to have the input of those who have watched the game to start the discussion. Maybe someone can volunteer to post a "bullet point" comment as soon as they can? I think those of us who've stuck with you, Al, since you merged your old site into CHTV (I know I'm not alone in preferring your former site, but understand the finance angle) could get a small "loyalty" bone with this "compromise"?
Thanks for all the work you all do here at CHTV but I, too, am finding less and less interest in podcast material.
Leatherhead
September 25, 2024 at 10:52 am
I, too, remember the cross body cut block. It was an equalizer, because you could cut down a bigger guy or completely blast a smaller guy. You just have to be careful you don't catch that knee in the head.
VanNess. I'd agree on the losing balance/being on the ground thing. There are old DL, and there are bold DL, but there are no old, bold DL. He's going to have to dial it down a bit and stay on his feet more, because he's not very useful on the ground.
I like utilizing Willis' running ability. We could put him on the field for 2 point conversions, either at QB or RB. Halfback option. Jump pass. SHUFFLE PASS .
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 11:18 am
Could you see Willis getting in the game more often in a Saints' T. Hill type roll with even better speed and athleticism?
Starrbrite
September 25, 2024 at 11:44 am
I like it.
T7Steve
September 25, 2024 at 12:45 pm
Now that I think about it, what playmaker are you going to take off the field to put him in. Have to rethink this. All the others are fast and athletic too. Just might not have the arm. So, I guess we should protect him to back up Love in case he gets hurt again.
Leatherhead
September 25, 2024 at 03:37 pm
I like Willis, but there's nobody I want to take off the field to make room for him. I like the guys we have on the field, and I like having a healthy and capable backup. I think the Packers can go to the Super Bowl this year, and we have a lot of football yet. We all hope Love stays healthy but there's no guarantee that Willis won't be needed .
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 11:32 pm
Perhaps if we had injuries to certain players, his ability to run and speed would be worth it along with the ability to throw in a wild cat wrinkle or two, but I think we are stacked with options and? In Reed and Melton have two players that can carry the ball and are faster than Willis and offer a wider range of non QB options from any formation, never say never, but I don’t see it as likely as long as Love is fully mobile.
I.worryright
September 25, 2024 at 11:13 am
I'm one of those geezer types that prefer the written word. That being said, I watch Andy's podcast just about every day. He is very good at what he does, and I am grateful for his contributions.
splitpea1
September 25, 2024 at 11:18 am
Penalties: The main issue here is offensive holding, where we lead the league with eight. Walker is the second-most penalized offensive player in the league right now...Strangely enough, the seven teams who have the least penalties all have losing records...On the bright side, we have no defensive pass interference or pesky illegal contact calls against us, so that's a credit to the back end of our defense so far.
Podcasts: Anyone can easily create their own gut reactions with bullet points or any other format if they desire after the game, so it's really not that big of a deal. However, most other fan sites in every sport have some sort of text article that comes out immediately following a game, so I can understand the frustration.
GregC
September 25, 2024 at 12:37 pm
I've found the same thing when I've looked up the most penalized teams over the past several years. There is little to no correlation between wins and number of penalties. You would think there would be a fairly strong correlation, but there isn't. Maybe the teams that are stretching the rules are benefitting from that approach. So I don't get too concerned about penalties, although of course they are super annoying when they happen.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 11:28 pm
I’ve heard it argued that the key is the nature of the penalties. Aggressive teams often get both penalized and positive performances. Sloppy teams tend to be bad teams to start with, on the other hand. Unnecessary gifts of downs or yardage stack the odds against one. Ultimately, perhaps it’s not penalties per se but the nature of them that determines their impact on success?
Matt
September 25, 2024 at 11:42 am
Dear Al,
about podcast. We made a suggestion that would work for everybody. Make vdeos even to all the articles. Could be the same video posted in multiple articles. Let it run automatically when readers eter the article. No problem for us. We can do extra effort turning it off if it gives some money, no problem. But I think we are less ready to give up on the content we value. Don't change but add.
JerseyAl
September 25, 2024 at 12:56 pm
One thing for everyone to remember - this site is FREE! We don't ask you to pay for anything published on this site. We do what we have to do to keep it that way. You also have freedom of choice. You can choose to consume whatever content you like and ignore the rest. We can all be happy here.
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 06:01 pm
I think it’s more the frank airing of opinion and motivations than a lack of appreciation Al. Many of us have been around a long time and have become invested and would like to be here in this community not forced elsewhere if we want something similar to what was here. If coming here wasn’t an experience I appreciate, I wouldn’t waste the effort to give feedback. I’d rather be here, if it remains an option on game day.
greengold
September 26, 2024 at 01:06 pm
Exactly. Pick what you want to enjoy, and leave the rest to the others who visit. Pretty simple stuff, and, thank you for providing this FREE, stellar content, on a FREE, fully-dedicated & time-tested Green Bay Packers site. I cannot imagine bitching about a simple preference between written & spoken content for days on end...
IT. IS. ALL. HERE. Take what you want, and try to make life easier for those who provide this gem... I agree with Coldworld this is the best Packers site around. And, that's nothing but THE TRUTH, LP. Don't give me that brown-nosin' shit.
lolz.
Did You say FREE, or did I say FREE?
FREE.
(Hey, Sincey! - wink.) LOLOLOLOL
Packers0808
September 25, 2024 at 01:06 pm
A bit of topic but you know I was thinking of Willis today and you know the Packers could make a good winning QB in about two months and the Bears haven't made one in about a century.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 25, 2024 at 02:32 pm
That's because da Bares still suck ;)
Coldworld
September 25, 2024 at 06:08 pm
I think it was Bill Huber who pointed out that Willis is already in the NFL record books as a Packer as the fastest to score a running and passing TD after signing. Beating a Packers Hall of Famer no less, a record that stood for 99 years.
“Malik Willis threw and ran for a TD against his former team (Titans) just 27 days after being traded by them, the shortest duration for a player to do so all-time.
Previously, Red Dunn of the Chicago Cardinals threw and ran for a TD against the Milwaukee Badgers in October 1925 after being traded by them 34 days earlier.”
Citing Tony Holzman-Escareno of NFL Front office.
pantz_bURp
September 25, 2024 at 04:16 pm
My gut reaction is:
Wow....so many moving parts. Remember, it wasn't that long ago that we were wondering what #12 was going to say after coming out of his darkness retreat
All I am saying is that this forum has allowed a select minority to educate me on the finer points of the NFL game (THANK YOU!) while at the same time allowing me to help educate the vast majority with my football acumen. I did play high school football, so I got that going for me.
Peace and at the very least hug a tree for me,
Coach Pantz
***too the guy/gal that invented the #0, thanks for nothing.
greengold
September 26, 2024 at 01:18 pm
My gut reaction:
• Podcasts are fucking awesome
• Also, written articles
Bullet points piss me clean off. Is there a "Complaint Department?" I'm not seeing a button for that...