Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - Grin and Bear It
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
Well, that was fun, wasn't it? As enjoyable as it was, I'm going to stay grounded. After all, regardless of what clueless Bears fans thought, Chicago is a bad team with a mediocre quarterback. The Packers dominated on both lines of scrimmage and that's not going to happen against some better opponents. The best thing to take out of this game is the knowledge that Jordan Love is not going to be a bad quarterback. How good we'll find out in a few years, but if he can keep improving along with the rest of this very young team being built around him, the Packers will be fine.
Young and Hungry - I'm loving the vibe this team gave off in their first game. The exuberance of youth was all over the field, especially on the defensive side. If the Packers can work on the safety position before next season, this defense could be special.
Slaton Penalty - That was pretty ridiculous. All Slaton did was put himself between Jaire and 5-6 Bears looking to go after Alexander. None of them got a penalty, just the semi-invisible DJ Moore as players were returning to the field. BTW, Alexander baited Moore by giving him a little bump and Moore reacted with the shove that landed him a penalty.
Justin Fields - Bears mishandling of the QB position continues on...
The Bears traded Bryce Young for 2 receptions 25 yards 😭
— Daire Carragher (@DaireCarragher) September 10, 2023
Rushin' Rashan - Gary had five pressure in 10 pass rush snaps. 50% pressure rate? That's pretty, pretty, pretty good.
Got a Passing Jones - For several years, I've been calling in this space for using Aaron Jones more in the passing game. Get him the ball in space and big things happen.
Speaking of Jones - Had to laugh at LaFleur's reason for why Jones didn't run the ball in the first half after the first series: "Our offense couldn't get to a rhythm" (paraphrasing), Well maybe if you had worked Jones in you would have achieved said rhythm, Matt.
Two for One - I don't know if I've ever seen anyone get two penalties trying to get off the field as Enagbare did. Too many men on the field sure, but offsides as well because he crossed the LOS as he was running off? I'd guess others have done the same but not get caught. That ref was really paying attention.
Snap Counts - Some interesting things looking at the snap counts for this game:
First, I absolutely love the distribution of snaps across the defensive line. Slaton 40, Clark 38, Wooden 36, Wyatt 30, Brooks, 28. All five were heavily involved, keeping everyone fresh. We haven't seen that in Green Bay in a long time.Great that they have enough confidence in the rookies to do that. By the way, Slaton also had 8 special teams snaps. What a workhorse!
Second, the use of starters on special teams: Deguara 14, Musgrave 11, Slaton 8, Walker 6, Enagbare 8, Douglas 10, Savage 10, Nixon 11, Alexander 3. What? Jaire on ST?
Ugh - Finally, I want to extend best wishes out to Aaron Rodgers, What a gut punch for the Jets and Rodgers, who felt like everything was going his way and life was beautiful. I've been telling all my Jets fan friends that they were a legitimate Super Bowl team because of the defense and Rodgers was some incredible icing on the cake. Now, who knows...
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"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of many hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He is also a recovering Mason Crosby truther. Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP.
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Comments (121)
Savage57
September 13, 2023 at 06:15 am
It was as auspicious of a start to the season as any reasonable fan could have hoped for.
The vigor of the defense was what jumped off the screen for me. It comes with some downside in the form of post-whistle exuberance, and finding the balance between that five seconds of hair-on-fire intensity and the whistle ending it is going to be a challenge for the Packers coaching staff.
Jordan Love showed his mettle, but all credit to his line. They kept him clean, and in return he delivered. But there are going to be games where he gets dirtied up, and how he responds to those will give us a more accurate measure of the sand QB1 possesses.
One other thing I thought was notable. The sound the ball made when Carlson kicked his FG that would have been good from 70 yards out. It reminded me of the sound McIlroy's driver makes when he pure's it.
TKWorldWide
September 13, 2023 at 06:35 am
Why would he hit a football with his driver? 😉
TKWorldWide
September 13, 2023 at 09:17 am
Lighten up, Francis.
TheKanataThrilla
September 13, 2023 at 06:55 am
Maybe a few others can sit under the goalposts with Quay before the game? Seems to have worked for him.
I am wondering about our upcoming game in Denver with Carlson. It would be perfect if before half or if the game is out of reach that he has a shot at a 70 yarder for the FG record.
robin_hood
September 13, 2023 at 06:26 am
A little off-topic, but when you watch a replay game on NFL+, do you still get the commercials?
On the European alternative we have them and I'm wondering about taking out an NFL+ subscription with a VPN.
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 07:00 am
You may miss some of the football but you'll always have the commercials. That's how they create the salary cap. Record it and buzz through.
robin_hood
September 13, 2023 at 07:29 am
Aren't NFL+ a streaming app?
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 09:46 am
“NFL+ and NFL+ Premium subscribers will not see ads in on-demand videos, including game replays. There will be ads during other content available in NFL+ and NFL+ Premium. For example, during live game broadcasts, users will see advertising consistent with the television broadcast.” NFL.com
robin_hood
September 13, 2023 at 10:46 am
Thanks a lot ! Go Pack Go !
WestCoastPackerBacker
September 13, 2023 at 04:09 pm
From their site, with NFL+ you get
Full, condensed and all-22 coaches film replays, all ad-free
The full replay are ready shortly after the games; the condensed take a little longer but don't include replays and time outs and half time, so you can watch a full game (plays only) in about 40 minutes. It was affordable as an annual rate, and I did it last year, but it is $14.99 a month now.
greengold
September 13, 2023 at 06:28 am
That DL rotation… WOW. The Packers have needed this level of talent on its DL for more than a decade, where there’s a continuity of high level play. We saw that. Finally. I believe Gutekunst will continue to load this position for years, as the positive effect on the rest of the D was noticeable.
Before getting away from the subject, I just want to tip my hat to TJ Slaton. We’re fortunate to have him, and he was a complete steal from the 2021 NFL Draft’s 5th Round. Nice work by Gutekunst there too.
Rashan Gary is phenomenal. I’m really looking forward to seeing his regular return to full-time action at OLB - in good time. While limiting his snaps isn’t easy, it’s smart.
Speaking of smart, why are fans able to see improvements the team can make in coaching & decision making, but Matt LaFleur cannot?
Feeding your best player on the team, Aaron Jones regularly? Handing the ball off to AJ Dillon from under C with a full head of steam? Changing out Myers for a more effective run blocker?
??? C’mon, man!!! Get your shit together. You did a commendable job with most of it, but your gotta get all of it together. You are the HC. Those should be very easy changes you can make to help your own team win more games.
AJ Dillon is an AUTOMATIC 4-5 yds, when you put him into a position for success. DO IT, MATT! No more crazy pitch outs, or handing off from shotgun. FFS!
And, find a C who can do more than pass blocking. We need a mauler who can pass pro. Brian Gutekunst should be on this hard too. Get it fixed, and this team can ROLL!!!
Do you really want to lose games, because you failed to adjust, Matt LaFleur? I want for you to succeed! Get these points addressed.
Aaron Rodgers being out for the season? Can you say “flex?”
The irony of our Packers possibly being flexed into a prime time spot vacated by the Jets? I’m here for all of that.
GregC
September 13, 2023 at 06:50 am
Karl Brooks and Colby Wooden looked good in the preseason, but I still didn't really believe they could hold their own in a regular season game. It was just the Bears, but so far so good. I'm used to rookie D-linemen being non-factors in Green Bay. Even Devonte Wyatt, a first-round pick, did not get much playing time until later in his rookie season. Maybe the coaches have changed their ways, and maybe Brooks and Wooden really are that good. Maybe both.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 07:36 am
Brooks has some work to do in the run game, but he’s certainly a threat.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 08:32 am
I hope the coaching brain trust realized they greatly hampered Wyatt's development last year by giving Lowery snaps the rookie should have had. And by keeping Wyatt mostly an afterthought in the rotation. This year, all 5 are contributing and rotating.
Montgomery has the best DL talent he has had in Green Bay. He has this group running stunts (half the pass rush snaps on Sunday!). This is a young, talented, athletic, quick group (Kenny is only 27). I think Montgomery knows all 5 have to play. And so far, Barry does too. That's a goodie.
.
Montgomery should have a weekly game plan objective: wear down the OL with his guys rotating all game. Rebrovich can join in the rotational fun with RG, Preston, Enagbare, Hollins, and Hercules.
PeteK
September 13, 2023 at 09:18 am
Wyatt looked terrible early on last season. Instead of throwing him into something he wasn't ready for; they gave him time. Great coaching move.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 09:50 am
I don't know about that Pete. How do you get better and ready if you don't play your #1 pick...taking rotational snaps from the "dominating" Dean Lowry?
The great coaching move keeping Wyatt on the bench until the last few games while they were being gashed on the ground to the point of defending the fewest 3rd downs in the NFL! What was the risk playing Wyatt by week 3 or 4?
When he did finally get meaningful snaps the last few games, he showed he belonged. I am confident he would have shown the same by week 3 or 4 if he had played.
PeteK
September 13, 2023 at 10:18 am
Preseason he looked like he was on roller skates going backward. College stars can lose confidence quickly and the NFL is not a good environment for getting it back. Fortunately, he looks to be the real deal now.
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:11 pm
that's the bottom line and thanks for pointing it out PK.
It's all about today and tomorrow, yesterday doesn't matter anymore.
GPG!
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 10:51 am
Initially maybe, but what was clear later, when it was forced on them, was that he was already a notable upgrade over Lowry.
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 10:03 am
The coaches have no choice. The commitment has been made to the youth on this team. I'm all for it. Let them learn on the job and see what we have.
I have to say, It's kind of nice going under the radar for a switch. I think this team is going to be fun to watch. Frustrating at times, but entertaining for sure. GPG!!
HawkPacker
September 13, 2023 at 11:42 am
I believe the coaches did not have a choice to play them as they took the place of two veterans. They are exciting to watch. I can't remember the last time the whole team was exciting to watch. It is great to see them all grow together!
WestCoastPackerBacker
September 13, 2023 at 04:15 pm
I think unless you are attending daily practices you are not seeing what the coaches are seeing that leads to their decision on who to start. Not every offensive line guy is going to be all pro. We've certainly seen worse. They say they want the "best 5" and unless you are there every day, you can't see their concerns as to why they are not moving Tom to Center and playing someone else at RT.
Its great to question why they stopped using Jones so much, but his entire career he has done well by not being overused. Overuse him at this stage in his career and I think you're asking for trouble. He can't do it all for the entire season.
TKWorldWide
September 13, 2023 at 06:33 am
I too love 33 in space, but occasionally his hands are a little bit unreliable.
I hope his hammy is ok! His value to the offense is ENORMOUS!
Since'61
September 13, 2023 at 06:44 am
Al great job as usual. As for the Safeties I thought that Savage had a good gambit Ford has a long way to go. It might not hurt if the Packers can still sign a vet Safety to play along side Savage. Ford needs time to develop.
The Bears continuing futility at QB is really just unbelievable. Their OL is not much help either.
Keep Gary on a snap count for now. Were not playing against any elite QBs for a while yet. Bring him back slowly we can't afford to lose him again.
Aaron Jones is the Man. Get him the ball and the offense will be fine.
STs were solid so using some of the starters is obviously the way to go.
I too wish Rodgers well. He has probably played his last snap in the NFL. Tough way to end his HOF career. He has been an All-Time great player and a great Packer while he was in Green Bay. He gave us many, many, many more good moments than bad. The league is less without him on the field. Tough loss for the Jets and their fans.
As for the Packers, on to Atlanta and Go Pack Go!. Thanks, Since '61
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 07:08 am
Won't hurt to snap count or continue to snap count Jones too. We're better with him out there and it helps open everything else up, but I'd love him fresh all season.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 07:39 am
I am leery of playing Jones if there is any issue with his hammy. It’s not really like Doubs going out for a few key passes. A RB needs snaps and can’t hold back. I’d rather see us activate Wilson and hope he can do something than risk Jones aggravating his hammy unless it really was just a very minor tweak.
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 08:09 am
I agree: if his injury is such that they need to snap count him, I'd just sit him. I'm encouraged that they say he could've finished the game if needed, but I question whether that's true or just machismo.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 08:54 am
Tis the reason for the 3 on the 53. Long season. Hopefully Wilson is up on Sunday. Let's see how he runs behind the starting 5.
BradHTX
September 13, 2023 at 07:56 am
All due respect, Since’61…
“Ford needs time to develop.”
Rudy Ford is in his seventh season, on his fourth team. There is no further development, he is what he is at this point: a solid STer whom you can play on defense as an acceptable backup but subpar starting safety. He’s a little bit more than a JAG, but he is not someone the Packers should be counting on; replacing him as a starter should be Priority One for the off-season, if not sooner.
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 08:12 am
Going into the season it was clear that the Packers would be needing to "hide" at least one of their safeties on a week-to-week basis. Owens, Ford--those guys are what they are. I had a little hope for Moore (now gone) who had flashed at S before being moved to CB. Good teams are going to expose those guys.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 09:00 am
Unless Ford improves markedly, I don’t see that AJJ would be notably worse as a tackler and perhaps better in coverage. If that is true, play the rookie. Yes, Ford is a ST contributor and do is Owens, but that shouldn’t justify activating both where that means one is a starter and there is a guy with the potential to be better on D with playing time.
Since'61
September 13, 2023 at 09:17 am
Agree Coldworld. I'd rather see AJJ given a shot rather than taking chances with Ford. Let Ford do his St thing and give AJJ a shot.Thanks, Since '61
greengold
September 13, 2023 at 09:37 am
Great point on Rudy Ford, Brad. He was such a different player in college. He was both exceptional in run stop and as a ballhawk. Hoping he comes around after all this time may be futile.
The Packers could stand to make trades for both a solid C and a quality Safety with all the draft capital we have next season. Are we really going to need 11 picks in 2024?
Since'61
September 13, 2023 at 09:56 am
Brad I totally agree with you. As I've posted previously I don't know if any of the current safeties will be with the team for 2024 with the exception of AJJ. Ford and the rest just do not appear to be capable of playing at the level of an NFL starting Safety. Possibly will Savage will evolve into a decent player as the season goes on. Ford should be left to do his thing on STs and provide depth at Safety if needed.
I would prefer that the Packers give AJJ a shot rather. than continue with Ford. Thanks, Since '61
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 08:57 am
I have seen enough of Ford in the Preseason and Sunday to view him as a ST back up. I'd start the rookie Johnson. Develop him instead. Ford has already developed....into a backup at best.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 09:04 am
Didn’t read this before I posted, sorry. Obviously I agree. I think the issue is that Bissacia wanted a bunch of “safeties” active, but that’s a step too far for me when it means not developing a potentially better starter.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 09:33 am
I thought I read AJJ was on the injured report as questionable or was dinged up? I would think he would be a key add to the STs...especially on coverage teams as he has been playing in space, following the ball on the move his entire football career.
He'd be the usual rookie risk at S...but a S with CB skills and training is intriguing. He was around the ball all the time during his preseason snaps.
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:21 pm
Let's not forget that DLeavit is still on the team. Weakest of the safeties and way over rated ST's player last year. Can't opine about his ST play this year, as he was unnoticed by this cheesehead.
We need to either trade for a vet or others' practice squad talent. Sitting idle is not acceptable.
Play the rookie then scour the planet for immediate help at safety.
Please gutey!
Watching the jets and other good defenses safety play really shows how weak our position group is. Night and day difference.
Strong play by safeties allows other defensive playmakers to take a few more risks and make a few more splash plays.
Splash plays, for or against, are usually the difference between winning and losing.
GPG!
PeteK
September 13, 2023 at 09:25 am
I say let's pump the breaks on this. It's early let the rookie ease in because if we rush him and it doesn't workout, we'll have two safeties with no confidence.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 09:35 am
Let's pump the brakes on Ford instead.
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:23 pm
At safety, I'm pumping hard on the disc brakes of that Ford, if that's what you mean. Well done!
GPG!
snowdog
September 13, 2023 at 05:12 pm
As I remember , Ford has been recalled three times
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 11:07 am
They now need to give Ford a chance to rebound anyway, at least for a week or two. Every player can have a bad game. However, if he does not, then we need to find better.
As to your point, that very much depends on the individual. Some thrive on being thrown in, some do not. I have no idea about AJJ’s personality, so I can’t comment, however, he did struggle in camp and then overcome that, which suggests some resilience.
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 10:06 am
Well said as always Since '61.
TKWorldWide
September 13, 2023 at 10:36 am
He is the rising tide, we are the boats!
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 10:45 am
lol. Fact !!
ReaganRulz
September 13, 2023 at 06:45 am
Speaking of Chicago fans…listening to AM670 was comical after the game. The Bear commentators (if you want to call them that) constantly said that the Packers are a mediocre team that the Bears should have beat. They did acknowledge that the Bears played poorly, but kept stating that the Packers are average at best. Time will tell, but I watched a bunch of guys flying around with energy and making plays for the GBPs!!
greengold
September 13, 2023 at 07:02 am
It was some fun listening, for sure. Lol
CheesedDeadHead
September 13, 2023 at 07:42 am
I think back to the study Al mentioned this summer that the Bears fans are 29th smartest (or 4th dumbest) in football…
greengold
September 13, 2023 at 07:57 am
Lolz!!! “Or, if you prefer, the 4th dumbest…!”
Nice of you to offer options there, CDH!
BradHTX
September 13, 2023 at 07:46 am
“Chicago is a bad team with a [mediocre] BAD quarterback.”
Fixed that for you, Al.
Leatherhead
September 13, 2023 at 10:20 am
Except his QB rating was higher than Rodgers last season.
CheesedDeadHead
September 13, 2023 at 10:45 am
I think that says more about Rodgers performance in 2022 than Fields performance.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 10:58 am
I think that it has a great deal to do with the value PFF puts on QB yards, particularly on designed plays. With a guy like Fields, the rating becomes less of a QB measure than one for a weapon. PFF has a point, one can’t ignore the fact that he gets yards on the ground at the rate he does, but does that make him a viable QB for an NFL team? Last season’s draft order would suggest not, as would last Sunday.
Leatherhead
September 13, 2023 at 12:23 pm
3300 yards and 25 TDs counts the same, run or pass, so I like the QBR over the passer rating.
The Bears could/should put a better offense around him. He is not the problem.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 12:58 pm
We probably disagree on his value. I think he’s more a Taysom Hill masquerading as a starter. He’s a weapon, but not a QB and playing him as one means they do not have a starting caliber QB.
Leatherhead
September 13, 2023 at 10:12 pm
OK, I had to look it up. Taysom Hill has never had a season where he had as many yards or TDs as Fields had last year, not even close. And Hill plays a multitude of positions, whereas Fields only plays one.
A lot of NFL scouts think/thought Fields was an NFL QB, and if a smart fella put an offense around him he'd have a pretty good team.
If it were me, I'd put a RB-centric offense in and get some help for Roschon Johnson (wanted him in the draft.) I'd get blockers. I'd grind sausage the Old Chicago way, until Fields started learning how to beat people with his arm. He has targets, but he has no time.
I don't know if anybody noticed....but on all the big throws that the Packers had (remember we only completed 15), Love was able to release the ball untouched. The two TDs to Love. The Musgrave heave. The cross field toss to Jones. The toss over the middle to Jones. A couple of other ones, too, but THE POINT is that the big completions we had all started with Love being well protected.
You cannot throw the football if you cannot protect your QB, and the Bears could not protect him on Sunday. The Packers did protect their QB, andhe completed several big passes.
And that's why I'm so optimistic about this Sunday, because I think the same situation applies. If Love is protected, we're going to score too many points for Atlanta, who only managed 24 against Carolna. Unless we beat ourselves with turnovers, we should beat these guys by at least 10. If Atlanta doesn't "bring it", they could get stomped. IF we can get some points on the board early and put them in catch-up mode, I think they're not ready to play that way with us.
Very optimistic on the 2-0.
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:30 pm
the cubs fans may be right, the packers may very well be a mediocre team.
I was thinking 8-9 or 7-10 and haven't really moved off that so I'd agree.
Yes, mediocre.
But never forget the ass-whooping our mediocre team put on the cubs dreadful team!
Qb, both lines, wr's, rb's, etc, coaching, gm, dreadful ass-whooping.
They have to look way up to see the bottoms of our mediocre team's shoes!
I frick'n love it!
GPG!
stockholder
September 13, 2023 at 06:48 am
Don’t blame the fans if the Bears still Suck.
Blame the Front Office.
Working on the safety position starts with change.
I was impressed with Savage. And saw praise from MLF.
But he was closer to the LOS.
So does Barry have him in the wrong position?
How could you hurt the Defense if he plays SS?
If Alexander can be on STs. Why can’t he play FS?
Leaving Stokes to play CB when he comes back.
What I liked about this game was the DL.
Finally since 2010. There’s upside.
Gary needs a new contract. A reasonable one.
I agree on Jones.
Now how do you keep Dillion from falling Down?
AJ Hawk per The Pat McAfee Show = Rodgers will be back!
They showed the injury in slow motion.
Nothing escapes the camera. The tear was obvious.- ugh
So if Soccer got rid of turf, for grass. Why can’t the NFL?
TheKanataThrilla
September 13, 2023 at 07:07 am
When it comes to the slow motion I thought that Aaron may have had the wrong cleats on? Perhaps because of the rain. It looked like his left foot cleat was almost dug into the turf when the hit came which may have exacerbated the injury.
No doubt that the league needs to figure out a safe playing surface that can also be multi-purpose for the venue. Is that even possible, I am not sure? Detroit is known to be one of the worst surfaces and unfortunately we have to play there once a year.
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 07:10 am
Only have to play in Detroit once, unless it's the playoffs (heaven forbid).
TheKanataThrilla
September 13, 2023 at 07:12 am
Brain fart. Yes once a year. Thanks I corrected my post.
jannesbjornson
September 13, 2023 at 09:37 am
Gary and Stokes were taken out by the Detroit surface last November. Cost the Pack a chance to make the playoffs.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 11:15 am
NY just modernized their surface to the “next generation” of artificial surfaces. Supposedly it’s got a lot more give than the prior one, despite remaining artificial. I’m not sure the surface was to blame (and I think artificial surfaces should be replaced): that looks to me like the weight pinning the foot if anything. It’s also something that’s probably happened many many times to Rodgers over his career. This time was just the one. It could be age, it could be just very unlucky physics, and one can’t rule out the surface contributing, who knows?
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:34 pm
I agree about the surface causing injuries to two of our badly needed defensive players, but us missing the playoffs was caused by that PLUS at least a half dozen other issues.
Fortunately, there's a plan in place to erase the others and it looks like it's working!
GPG!
stockholder
September 13, 2023 at 07:13 am
HE HAD SOME CALF/? ISSUE THIS training camp.
A specialist said," that is the first warning sign" -
For it to tear.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 08:36 am
A calf strain may be, indeed usually is, completely unrelated to the Achilles. However, persistent unexplained calf muscle discomfort is a flag that suggests that the symptom may in fact be caused by a tear in the Achilles, which connects to that muscle. It’s a sign that an MRI may be needed. I suppose both Rodgers trainers and the Jets medical staff may be incompetent, but otherwise the likelihood is the calf strain was just that.
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 09:02 am
Teams do MRIs like they're throwaways...it's one of the first things they do for any kind of meaningful soft-tissue injury, and even moreso for key players. I don't know if they ever did an MRI on ARod's calf--if only to assess the severity of the injury--but I'd be surprised if they didn't.
As someone who regularly pulls calf muscles, I've rarely had one that comes anywhere near the Achilles.
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 10:15 am
I heard that as well SH. He said a weakened calf can cause undue stress on the achilles.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 11:23 am
Yes, it can, since the body compensates naturally to maintain function. However, because it can be doesn’t mean it is, and it generally is not by some margin. It’s like saying your car won’t start because it’s seized. Maybe, but it’s unlikely.
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 12:46 pm
I don't think anyone said it definitively was the calf issue that caused the injury. It was only pointed to as a possible contributor. The Doctor didn't say it was highly likely or unlikely.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 01:41 pm
If there is only a possible correlation at best, not a strong one, then it is largely pointless to cite it.
MainePackFan
September 14, 2023 at 06:09 am
I've seen different 3 specialists mention it, so I guess that would indicate there is a fairly strong correlation. It doesn't change anything, which makes the whole discussion a moot point : )
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 07:41 am
"Gary needs a new contract. A reasonable one."
The market will dictate that.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 07:55 am
Why would you want Alexander at S? He’s one of the few true shut down corners in the league. If I had to move a guy he’d be last on my list.
Rodgers has a full rupture. That’s an injury that takes about 6 months to basically heal and then has a very long lag to get to the point where near full elasticity and thus movement and durability return.
The average time is 340 days for a return to practice after a rupture in the NFL. However, studies have shown a significant decline in post return athletic capability and durability (re-injury and susceptibility to injuries in associated tissue) for a similar period after return. That data is based on athletes with median ages a decade or more younger than Rodgers as well.
I am sure he will want to come back. He may well try, but it’s going to be a long and difficult path. There’s no way to sugar coat this for a 40 year old athlete. He is unlikely to be back to his pre-injury condition by the start of next season. How that affects the Jets’ moves is impossible to know.
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 08:07 am
For someone like ARod whose mobility has diminished over the years and who isn't really a runner (or have a play style that requires him to run hard), I think his potential to return by the start of 2024 isn't terrible. I'd argue that this might put yet another 'chip' on his shoulder to play. I think the biggest issue will be with confidence in his plant and how that impacts his ability to generate drive on the ball from his lower body.
If he does try to return, it could create a real mess if Wilson plays at least adequately.
"Why would you want Alexander at S? He’s one of the few true shut down corners in the league."
Do you really need to ask?
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 08:24 am
You are right that QB isn’t a running position, but it does require sudden movement to play, and also involves the risk of being taken down on the “back foot”, with additional weight/force on the affected area.
He would likely be able to perform in a sandbox by then, but how much use is that? How effective would he be deprived of his ability to buy time and how durable when hit? Those are the questions he and the Jets have to face.
Brady and Manning managed ok later on with minimal mobility, but behind lines that were vastly better than that the Jets currently have and built over time. The saddest thing to see would be a hobbled Rodgers. He may come to agree with that, or the Jets might.
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 10:19 am
Good point dobber. Tend to agree, but that chip will disappear quick if it he is still behind that sieve of a o-line.
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 08:19 am
As they say in the steel business, "keep it elevated and get back to work."
PeteK
September 13, 2023 at 09:40 am
It was sad to see. Especially for Jet fans who deserve better, but in the end they beat a very good team. The agony and the ecstasy.
stockholder
September 13, 2023 at 12:11 pm
Why Move Alexander?
!. So Stokes can play CB.
And thats if he becomes Good.
2. Alexander can Fly.
He has the closing speed for it.
Knows the system. Still Tackles.
And Let's not forget, we have moved
Butler, Nick Collins, and Tried to move
Traman Williams.
Why force someone out like Casey Hayward,
Why Let a Micheal Hyde go to Buffalo.
If Savage can Move in.
Alexander could be just the ticket.
The Safeties are not the hitters they used to be.
It's help over the top. To many picks failed.(Josh Jones)?
And Randall was moved to CB until the Browns
moved him back.
jannesbjornson
September 13, 2023 at 01:52 pm
He's a shut-dow CB w/ All Pro honors. The best cover guy in the backend. If anyone goes to the free safety spot it would be Stokes with his speed and range. Nixon could also go to the deep spot. He has Instincts. They didn't even offer a contract to Hyde. That was on Low-ball & Co. The Hayward deal was a result of a stale defensive scheme. Butler and Collin are thicker guys
who could put on the hits.
jannesbjornson
September 13, 2023 at 09:50 am
The reason they were at least looking into Jonathon Taylor. A.Jones is not the bell cow guy to take abuse for 17 games. Keep him in space.
croatpackfan
September 13, 2023 at 07:11 am
I read and heard on different podcast that first half was not so good for offense. Hmmm...
My impression is that, as it is first game of season, MLF decided to test Bears D with pretty basic play call to see what kind of defense Bears fielded. After 1st half, he adjusted and we saw glimpse of Packers playbook. Inovative, with QB who is completely in and respects play calls.
Jordan Love learned how to manipulate defense with his eyes and body position, opening passing lines for his team mates and delivers darts after darts. That was wow moment I enjoyed a lot. That miss on Musgrave is still somewhat unsolved whose mistake it was. If Musgrave continue to run and catch the ball in movement towards end zone it will be walk of TD. The question is does that play was designed for TE just to catch the ball for 1st down or Musgrave did not run right route.
Similar situation happened in the second half, where Musgrave was waiting for the throw and than backpedaling to catch the pass. If he was positioned himself face to the end zone it wss another walk off TD.
It would be nice if Packers will solve those "misunderstandings" between Jordan and Luke "Skywalker"...
Regarding FPQB, I must say that it is pitty that his positive vibes and excitement finished with hard injury. Me does not like to see any player that finish season, no matter when, with that kind of similar, season ending, injury. What I learned about FPQB is that he will probably try to play another season, after heals. But, if Jets will not repair their OL, it might be that he decide to retire. Pitty!
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 08:01 am
The first half was cautious, which isn’t surprising. We also struggled mightily run blocking between the tackles, which is where we were trying to establish. We also had key drops. Pretty much what I was expecting in fact, given the amount of inexperience playing together for the first time with the added wrinkle the enforced changes at WR. The second half saw more Jones and tactical adjustments, as well as more ambition.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 09:29 am
Meanwhile, Chicago was reckless...filled with hubris before the home crowd...getting stuffed on 3rd down and again on 4th on its first drive.
That was a huge tone setter for the Packers D STUFFING THE RUN for consecutive no gains.
PeteK
September 13, 2023 at 09:48 am
Especially Myers, who missed some key blocks. It's early and he should develop, or coaches will not expect difficult blks from him. Meanwhile Tom is a bulldozer on the down blks.
10ve 💚
September 13, 2023 at 08:06 am
Good point on Musgrave, Croat.
Musgrave should run to where the ball is supposed to be and then look back to make the catch. Unfortunately he seems to be turning around to watch the ball, in the process getting out-ot-step. But these are coachable things, so I have great hopes for him.
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 08:14 am
I can't help but wonder if Musgrave was thrown off a bit by just how wide open he was.
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 08:46 am
I don’t think that, from what I’ve seen, Musgrave has any experience catching over the shoulder, which is neither natural nor easy. He’s going to have to learn that.
Watson had the same issue to a considerable extent. They probably never had the QBs to do it and were able to get open and wait for an easier ball to reach them or run across the field and then head up it. Certainly that was true of Watson in college. It’s no accident that he’s a lot more comfortable catching deep crossers.
It’s a skill that can be learned. It’s exciting to have a TE who needs to—that’s freakish in its own right.
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 07:18 am
"Young and Hungry - I'm loving the vibe this team gave off in their first game."
The Bears were young and hungry too. Maybe we have a little more talent and better coaching. We just don't want to set the bar at the Bears' level.
Keep rotating that D-line and bringing the youngsters up to NFL speed. Wouldn't it be a luxury to be able to keep Gary on a snap count 1/2 the season?
I'll give Myers a break today. Got sick to my stomach talking about it yesterday. I think it can be fixed with people we have, but will it?
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 10:04 am
At the risk of sending you to the medicine cabinet, my concern is Myers may be Newman 2.0. Both seem to be "hope and change" players. Coaches hope they will change for the better. Neither have to date.
Change happens but it is almost always incremental. And with Myers, he has stayed solid in pass blocking. But his run blocking has regressed. Almost timid doing it. Can he do it? Sure! Will he do it? He did at OSU and early as rookie until he got hurt. Since the injury he has been the worst of the 5 doing it now.
I get giddy thinking about Jenks and Tom zone blocking on run plays inside. They are hunters on the move. Always getting hats on guys.
Handsback
September 13, 2023 at 07:49 am
I know this will sound harsh, but as bad as Rodger's injury is....I'm glad it happened after being traded to the Jets. He may be able to come back from this but his career is probably over. He was a great passer and deserves to be in the HOF.
There is a lot of hope with Packer fans. Young team, talented, and decent depth. Again not getting my hopes up that they make the playoffs, but steady improvements will be great.
Just MHO
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 07:58 am
"Chicago is a bad team with a mediocre quarterback."
They still needed to go into Soldier field and take that game. I'll never look down on a division win...winning games on the road against inferior opponents is was good teams do. Is this a good team? Who really knows...but they were clearly the better team for three quarters on Sunday, and that was enough.
"The Packers dominated on both lines of scrimmage and that's not going to happen against some better opponents."
Frankly, that line play and its ability to dominate opposition is what makes most teams better.
Less likely to happen against Atlanta, who profiles as a mediocre team...so the tests are coming with increasing difficulty. Atlanta is better in the trenches and their game runs through their RBs. Ridder is meh...did very little at home v. Carolina on Sunday and showed little in limited action last year.. Carolina was actually the better team, but they gifted ATL 3 TOs and gave the game away. I feel better about this game (in ATL) than I did prior to Sunday.
"...Jones"
The offense needs to run through the RBs, and Jones needs to get 15+ touches per game. Even if Jones doesn't play on Sunday, Watson returning and Doubs a week healthier will give this offense a meaningfully different look.
The Bears jammed the inside run lanes against Dillon on Sunday and it worked. Dillon bouncing inside runs to the edge doesn't scare anyone. Some teams have the IOL to bully stacked boxes...the Packers don't. If Jones is out this week, they're going to run Dillon a lot, but they're going to need to try different things to break him loose.
"Snap counts"
The snap counts are skewed a little by playing the last 20+ minutes with a three score lead, but it seems to emphasize the fact that the Packers have a lot of faith in their 2s.
"Slaton penalty"
...seems all the more ridiculous when you watch the replay and you see a Bears OG crashing in as the first man in.
LeotisHarris
September 13, 2023 at 08:25 am
"They still needed to go into Soldier field and take that game. I'll never look down on a division win...winning games on the road against inferior opponents is was good teams do."
+1000 on this, dobber. Early Sunday afternoon I heard a faint sucking sound from the west, a sound that increased in volume and peaked shortly after three pm. It was then I realized the Minnesota NFL franchise had fallen short at home against Baker and the Mayfields. A home loss with the family of Minnesota legend Bad Grunt in attendance to blow the giant kazoo before the game; an adoring crowd sent home forlorn. Good try, Vikings. *chefskiss*
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 08:55 am
" It was then I realized the Minnesota NFL franchise had fallen short at home against Baker and the Mayfields. "
Sunday was just a feel-good day all around!
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 10:23 am
I got my Daily Double! Packers won, Ugly Purple lost.
What's not to "not like" about the MN Yikes? The Helga braids? The empty trophy case? That irritating horn (Sounds like a whale in heat)? Randy Moss doing a pretend moon and rubbing his butt on the Lambeau field goal posts? Classy.
Speaking of classy moons...after my sister and brother in law took their 3 kids to a Packers Yikes game in MN some years ago, after the game (Vikings won in a squeaker), crawling through traffic....a very plump female Yikes fan, seeing the car full of Green and Gold fans....gave them a very large moon. My brother in law said "all my kids were given a full anatomy lesson! Full display!" Classy.
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 01:25 pm
They make the rockin' world go 'round!
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:48 pm
I was in minneapolis on Sunday afternoon visiting with family.
I didn't pay any attention to if/where the queens were playing.
Then I noticed a stench in the air that typically blows north out of the iowa pig barns.
My son said that mysterious smell appears on about half the sundays, at the start of Fall, and ends 4 to 6 weeks before the super bowl for some reason?
GPG!
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 08:30 am
".but they were clearly the better team for three quarters on Sunday, and that was enough"
That's already a vast improvement, don't you agree?
Last season, with the exception of the Vikings (2nd game) and Dalas, we never showed up for more than a half. Even The Miami win was only a half and that after Tua was hurt.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 09:25 am
AJD was misused Sunday as he was too often last season. Taking handoffs standing still from the shotgun like a draw play into the center of the line where the weakest run blocker also resides. By the time AJD got going the run lanes were clogged with trash.
The handoff to AJD needs to be with his Quads and 247 lbs charging downhill. He has speed, once he's moving. Save the shotgun runs for AJ. Using AJD this way is mostly a wasted play. It was LAST YEAR too.
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 11:11 am
Don't you think the coaches can see this on replay too? We've been seeing this (as you say) for 2 seasons, why do they choose to ignore it?
Coldworld
September 13, 2023 at 11:27 am
I could ask why they ignore our issues run blocking between the tackles? Who knows? Yet when an issue persists and the results don’t change, the why question just looms larger and larger.
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 02:12 pm
"I could ask why they ignore our issues run blocking between the tackles?"
That is a bigger problem than AJD taking handoffs from shotgun. There is a reason why the Packers struggle running the ball between the tackles, and it's not where the ball is being handed off.
RCPackerFan
September 13, 2023 at 08:32 am
Young and Hungry -
This team is young. This team is hungry. This team has a lot to prove and they took the first step against the Bears. There will be a lot of learning experiences this year.
Slaton Penalty -
Just a crap penalty. The Bears started it, the Bears finished it, and yet the Packers got a penalty for it.
Justin Fields -
Somehow PFF gave Fields a higher grade then they gave Love.
Rushin' Rashan -
The great part about Gary is he is just coming back. He was limited and made an impact.
Got a Passing Jones -
The option route out of the backfield is exactly what I have been wanting to see for Jones for years. He is a matchup nightmare for defenses, and the Packers haven't taken advantage of it very much.
Speaking of Jones -
Ok, can we change things up. Stop giving Jones a series and then Dillon a series. Can we just have Jones get the bulk reps and sub in Dillon. When Jones isn't on the field the offense gets out of rhythm. Taking him off for entire series needs to change.
Ugh -
Have to feel for the Jets, and the Jets fans. They finally got a QB that could take them to the Super Bowl and that lasted 4 plays. Have to also feel for Rodgers. It sucks when a player gets injured, and its even worse when its a season ending injury.
But that being said, the Jets didn't do enough to put a better OL in front of him. They knew this was a weakness on the team in the offseason and they didn't do enough to improve it.
PeteK
September 13, 2023 at 09:59 am
I agree RC. However, in their defense, there weren't many good free agent lineman available this year and trading first round picks with us hurt their chances to draft one.
MainePackFan
September 13, 2023 at 10:42 am
True Pete. It didn't help that their aging LT missed almost all of the offseason, and their young RT is new to the position.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 10:32 am
All I see with PFF are their scores and I have no clue how they calculate it.
One key evaluation of a QB must be performance during money downs...Red Zone, goal line, 3 and 4th downs. Does PFF give more weight situational football? IDK.
Love outperformed Fields by a greater margin in these metrics than Watson would beat me in a 100 yd dash.
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 11:14 am
If I ran 100 yards they would have to call it something other than a "dash".
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:50 pm
He'd beat me if I was on a bike!
GPG!
Vachio
September 13, 2023 at 08:40 am
I was happy the Pack missed out on Chase Claypool before. My initial reaction when I heard the Packers had interest was to scream "NO!" at my PC screen. After seeing how he played this last game (and how many times he showed up in the defensive highlight reels), I am even happier Chicago "stole" him from GB.
dobber
September 13, 2023 at 08:57 am
Incredible athletic gifts, but seems to be missing the want-it part of the game.
Tater
September 13, 2023 at 08:47 am
Always love a Larry David reference.
Charvid
September 13, 2023 at 09:07 am
I can’t help but notice the marked contrast between the 2023 opener and those of the last couple of years. Yes, we were playing a woeful team, but we came out ready to play for the first time in a while. I can’t help but wonder if it’s just a coincidence that the drama level was down and the preparedness was significantly up.
T7Steve
September 13, 2023 at 09:20 am
Could be a combination of both, but I think if you get through preseason without a major setback, it diminishes the chances of injury too, and the guys get their game shape/legs faster.
Tater
September 13, 2023 at 09:21 am
Right or wrong, they also played their starters more in the pre-season.
blondy45
September 13, 2023 at 10:30 am
I totally agree Tater, just look at the Bengals for proof. Joe Burrows looked like a first year QB, not the highest paid one. He had no preseason minutes. That also effected the whole team especially his WR's! The NY Giants got SHUTOUT, because their Oline did not get to mesh in the preseason.
In the recent preseasons for the Pack, we were not ready for week one. This year we were much better with a very young team. The offense started out slowly but gained momentum. The Defense was stellar, from the first 4th down stop, to the continued pressure throughout the game. The Special teams were better than what we are used to watching. We were ready to go this year.
This was building block #1with a big NFC Central win. The youth showed excitement, the coaches had a plan, & the team gained both confidence & EXPERIENCE! I am looking forward to not listening to the national media harp on the Packer's lack of it. I also am very happy to see plays and schemes run as called for the most part. Keep growing on the EXPERIENCE of being a Packer's team unified! Go Pack Go, grow, grow, grow!
PeteK
September 13, 2023 at 10:14 am
The rotation of quality players at DL and OLB is very exciting and keeps these groups going strong throughout a long season. Also, with two beatable opponents coming up next, momentum could improve these groups going into the Detroit game. Their rookie RB looks scary good.
Via.Lombardi
September 13, 2023 at 10:18 am
It's no surprise Rodgers got hurt. He's had an injury every season for the past several seasons -- broken toe, broken calf, broken thumb -- so it was just a matter of when and not if. Perhaps he shouldn't have held onto the ball for so long.
LambeauPlain
September 13, 2023 at 10:43 am
For 18 years of NFL games, Rodgers has been surprisingly durable. Not #4 Iron Man durable...but he played without injuries and with them. I would never call him injury prone. And he works hard at his conditioning all year.
But, speaking with experience...when you approach 4 decades...the machine begins to break down. The $75 mil gamble was all in, chips shoved to center.
mnbadger
September 13, 2023 at 12:54 pm
you win some gambles and lose some.
I feel bad for jets players and fans, not so much for the rest owners.
GPG!