After many years as Packer fans favorite whipping boy, Shawn Slocum has quietly brought the Packers' special teams back to respectability, and not just because of the well-executed fake field goal.
After giving up a kick return for a touchdown against Atlanta, the Packers now face the dangerous Devin Hester and the Chicago Bears in the NFC Championship game.
The decision to make Korey Hall and Atari Bigby inactive against the Falcons looms large as the Packers give up a 102-yard kickoff return to Eric Weems.
The Packers have limited Devin Hester and DeSean Jackson in back-to-back weeks. Now they must stop Eric Weems who set up the game winning field goal in their first meeting this season.
Bill Barnwell has broken down how much each team spent at each position group in '09. The Packers lead in one area and are dead last in another. Not surprisingly, it is reflected on the field.
Nose Tackle:
Ryan Pickett: B
Quieted doubts about his ability to fit the scheme. Was a first-rate run stuffer and more than held his own against constant double teams. Set to be a free agent, the team is currently in discussions with his agent to bring him back. A big (no pun intended) positive in the locker room.
B.J. Raji C+
Hampered by injury earlier in the year, Raji was never the difference maker the team was hoping it was getting. Extremely versatile, Raji did everything he was asked, including playing downfield in coverage. The problem was he didn’t do any one thing extremely well. It will be very interesting to see what an offseason spent in Dave Redding’s program will do for his conditioning.
Defensive End:
Cullen Jenkins B -
Feasted on inferior competition while disappearing against the better offensive lines the team faced. Allayed most fears about his ability to stand up to the down-after-down pounding the 3-4 end position requires. Supplied pressure on the quarterback, which is always a luxury from a 3-4 end.
Johnny Jolly B
By almost any measure, Jolly had an excellent season. The worry, of course, is how much of what was on display was the dreaded ‘contract year’ doing the motivation. Given his perceived attitude both on and off the field, it’s impossible not to color all examination of his play this year with that brush. That said, his play was superb across the board.
Jarius Wynn D +
Wynn (friend of the show, though maybe not after he sees his grade…) was pushed around in the run game and offered next to nothing on passing downs. Needs an offseason to define the mass he has. The bigger problem? Doesn’t seem to have a motor at all.
Michael Montogomery D –
Barely played. For a reason.
Justin Harrell I
The man fans love to hate who’s name isn’t Jarrett Bush.
On today's show, Andy discusses the Packers' decision to sign Andre Dillard. Plus, scouting reports for all the offensive players the Packers have brought in for top 30 visits. Don't miss it!
