Cory's Corner: Brett Hundley needs to spin clichés

I detest clichés. They are lowest form of communication. Cookie cutter phrases like “One game at a time” or “We just made plays today” make me roll my eyes.

However, clichés can also serve a purpose. Enter Brett Hundley, who is starting his first game as a pro on Sunday. And instead of embracing the doom and gloom from many after Aaron Rodgers went down, Hundley came out with a little venom.

“Obviously, you guys do your job, media filming everything, but we’re not 100 percent interested in your guys’ opinion because we know what we have to do on Sunday,” said Hundley. “So the outside opinion, we’re not worried about it. We have to do what we do and that’s win football games. And that’s what we’ve been doing, even when 12 was here. The first thing we don’t do is go to social media and see what you guys think.”

Don’t say that. Say something like, “I can understand why many fans and media may feel that the season is over because Aaron Rodgers was exceptional. But we have a locker room full of guys ready to prove people wrong.”

It’s not wise to make enemies with the Packers media before even taking a snap. And as Hundley was chewing gum, I found that it was odd that he opted to use Rodgers’ number instead of his name.

He did drop Rodgers’ name for comparison’s sake. “I’m  different than Aaron,” Hundley said. “I’m not Aaron Rodgers. So there’s a lot of things that we do differently.”

That’s an important piece to remember. While Hundley can throw on the run and throw a nice ball, can he own a huddle? Can he consistently move the chains on third down and can he produce touchdowns inside the red zone? Those are the things that matter and if he does those three things, the Packers will be fine.

Remember that the media is a mouthpiece for the fans. Losing the best passer in the league is still a shock to many people. No sense in getting upset about outside noise. Instead use Rodgers as an example. He took being drafted at No. 24 as a slight his entire career and that is why he will be a first ballot Hall of Famer.

Rodgers has been compared as the Michael Jordan of football and not coincidentally, Jordan used defeat as fuel. “I have missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I have lost almost 300 games. On 26 occasions I have been entrusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. And I have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” That doesn’t sound like a quote from a six-time NBA champ who was also a five-time MVP.

By saying what Hundley said, he doesn’t give himself wiggle room. If he fails in his first couple starts, he won’t be given as long of a rope as Martellus Bennett has been for dropping passes.

Be human. Don’t criticize before you even take a snap. Be loquacious. Be open that you will likely make mistakes but you have an offense and defense that is more than willing to make up for those things.

Hundley has said that he has made a lot of growth ever since college where set UCLA career records for touchdowns, total offense and completions. His 40 UCLA starts are second only to former first rounder Cade McNown. Hundley, was a fifth rounder in 2015 drafted behind Garrett Grayson and Sean Mannion, has plenty to prove after learning for three offseasons behind coach Mike McCarthy and Rodgers.

“I want to be one of the greatest to play this game,” Hundley said. “But there’s a lot of growth to do. It was a blessing in disguise to be behind 12 for this long. I’ve been preparing every week for three years now, I feel ready.”

Those are impressive goals. Just remember to keep spinning the negative into a positive.

 

 

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Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn

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Comments (34)

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carusotrap's picture

October 21, 2017 at 06:26 am

Uh oh. Did the media get its feelings hurt because Brett Hundley didn't genuflect quite low enough for its taste?

Good for him. Yeah...you were going to be nice to him until he demonstrated he has a pair, but now it's gloves off? Please.

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Tundraboy's picture

October 21, 2017 at 06:57 am

Be yourself. Good for Brett.

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TKWorldWide's picture

October 21, 2017 at 07:18 am

Give 110% and let the chips fall where they may.
Next man up.
Injuries are no excuse.
Just happy to be there and help the team win.
Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes it rains.

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Johnblood27's picture

October 21, 2017 at 10:52 am

Thanks for this, Meat!

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dblbogey's picture

October 21, 2017 at 11:58 am

And focus on your pad level.

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4thand1's picture

October 21, 2017 at 08:02 am

MM, "I have to do a better job". He seems to say that a lot, hmmmmmmmm. I hope Brett 2.0 rips it up and in the next 8 weeks we have a qb controversy. What are you saying Corey, the Packer media will ask some tough questions?

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TarynsEyes's picture

October 21, 2017 at 08:03 am

A distaste for social media.....how quaint!

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mrtundra's picture

October 21, 2017 at 08:35 am

Huntley is going to have to dig deep down inside himself and come up with a victory. He'll have to make the most of it as the new number one QB. I just hope that if things go south, he won't be beside himself on the sideline, eating his heart out. Just put one foot in front of the other and do the job, Brett. You'll be fine!

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Johnblood27's picture

October 21, 2017 at 10:53 am

Maybe Brinkley can help him out...

spelling matters... words, they mean things...

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Jordan's picture

October 21, 2017 at 08:39 am

I wouldn't read too much in to whatever he said in an interview.

Bottom line is he's nervous. This is Hundley's big chance to show he can start somewhere in the league. Lots of teams need a (better) starting QB. I'm sure he wants to get traded next year and make some big bucks (millions) instead of the $705,000 that he's scheduled to make.

This is his big chance to prove himself to other teams. He's got at least 7 games to show what he's got.

Packers obviously want him to do well not only so the team will win, but also so he has good trade value.

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Lphill's picture

October 21, 2017 at 08:54 am

I like it I think his message was that the season is not over , it shows he has faith in himself and his team , he talks the talk now we will see if he walks the walk .

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Steven Norris's picture

October 21, 2017 at 09:06 am

Pretty pretentious for the writer to claim the "media is a mouthpiece for the fans". That's insultingly WRONG. The media is a mouthpiece for ITSELF and it's own agendas; from generating clickbait material to creating drama where none previously existed...please STOP. As for Hundley aka #Hundawg, I'm proud of his defiance to humble himself to The Media clowns. The media is at it's BEST when simply doing it's job of REPORTING the info that's given from the coaches & players. It's at it's WORST, when butthurt sets in because the former stands up to them and reminds them of how little, if at all, their opinions matter in the locker room, and ultimately, on the field.

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CoryJennerjohn's picture

October 21, 2017 at 10:06 am

Steven, you're confused. If what you claim is true, then media outlets produce content for other media, without any consumers whatsoever -- and we both know that isn't true.

This is about perception. He can think that. Heck, most athletes should think that in order to maintain focus and succeed. However, don't say it. That comes across as negative before even getting a chance to start. It's in his best interest to turn negativity into a positive. That's leadership.

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Johnblood27's picture

October 21, 2017 at 10:56 am

It is you who are confused my poor Cory.

You do need a reality check.

There is a very different, very real, media world out there doing exactly as described above.

Maybe it doesn't look and feel that way blogging from Mom's basement.

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CoryJennerjohn's picture

October 21, 2017 at 11:11 am

Negative John. I've got more media experience than you think.

Your thoughts are humorous though.

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dblbogey's picture

October 21, 2017 at 12:03 pm

Now you've gone right to condescending. Sorry, you are pretty irrelevant, despite your vast "experience".

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CoryJennerjohn's picture

October 21, 2017 at 12:06 pm

How so? I literally laughed.

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croatpackfan's picture

October 21, 2017 at 12:49 pm

This discussion went to type of discussion: My dad has bigger than yours dad!"

Yes, Cory, people needs media, but, media needs people, too...

And, I think Brett Hundley did nothing wrong by gently telling you that media spitting on him from the moment Aaron left the game. Look at media titles only: "Packer are done. No help for Packers. Hundley will have huge problems. Hundley can not replace Aaron." etc.

Than, media came to his locker room and ask him did he prepare for future in which he will be loser. And he told you the truth. The truth is that not you and neither other reporters knows qualified information to be able to make qualified conclusion. Last time I checked with myself, telling the truth is all but rude.

What I consider rude is that media start to bully Hundley, and found themselves (including you) offended when he told you simple truth and defended himself.

Why do you not comment on Mike McCarthy several media calling, from last few press conferences (to remind you MM asked several times several reporters were they present at the conference, as he already answered on asked question!)

How rude is to ask one person same question (just change the words, but meaning stays) several times in the row looking for confirmation your/media thesis that Packers are done... Media is that rude, that Mike McCarthy had to remind you (media) that he is highly successful NFL coach.

And regarding conclusions, to remind you when we all thought D. Randall gave TD to opponent, media crucified Randall just to learn week later that it was mistake (and assignment) of Kentrell Brice.

Only improperly behavior in Brett Hundley's statements was chewing the gum while he was talking to media...

Sorry, I'm with Brett in this little clash...

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CoryJennerjohn's picture

October 21, 2017 at 01:09 pm

That's fair Croat. I just don't think he gained anything by saying that.

When McCarthy snapped at the media, that was warranted. That was a flimsy question.

But clearly Hundley knew the negativity surrounding him and Rodgers' injury and that's why he got so upset. But what I wanted to hear him say was how the attitude gets changed moving forward.

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Since'61's picture

October 22, 2017 at 10:55 am

Croat - an excellent post. Hundley did nothing wrong. He was honest and correct in his response to the media. The media, such as it is in Green Bay, throws their little softball questions to MM, TT, Capers and the players but they don't want the real honest, factual answers, which is what Hundley gave them. They give time to the media because it is mandated by the league not because the media has earned it or deserve it. Most of these guys would prefer to never speak with the media, it just not their gig.
The other problem with the media and why they often ask and repeat stupid questions is because they usually don't know what they are watching or what they are talking about. It has been an on going and increasing problem with all aspects of the media in the U.S. Actual reporting is out, getting ratings and creating controversy for profits is what the media is about. Thanks, Since '61

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EdsLaces's picture

October 21, 2017 at 10:40 am

We just need to focus on fundamentals.

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Johnblood27's picture

October 21, 2017 at 10:57 am

We'll get that cleaned up.

Pad level...

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Spock's picture

October 21, 2017 at 12:03 pm

Cory, Now you want to tell the player what he should say to fit your notion of what a player should say about the media?! How absolutely pathetic. Hundley's words seemed fine to me; it's YOU who had the problem with it. Somehow I don't think others in the media got your take that he was "making enemies of the media". Sheesh, you're coming across as someone who is "a legend in their own mind" with this type of drivel. Did someone pee in your cereal this morning? This was a perfectly innocent comment that you are trying to turn into something else (click bait?). The whole premise of this, um, story is ridiculous.

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CoryJennerjohn's picture

October 21, 2017 at 12:06 pm

I disagree Spock. It's leadership. Spin negativity into positivity.

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Spock's picture

October 21, 2017 at 01:54 pm

Cory, and I disagree with you. He WAS showing leadership. I don't get where you get this "negativity" from his statement. Honestly, I don't. He said he's not Rodgers but the team will continue to pursue their goals. Your take is IMHO totally in your mind. Sorry, I'm standing by what I said. I think, in this instance, you are completely off the mark.

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Spock's picture

October 21, 2017 at 03:39 pm

Okay, Cory, I wasn't going to comment further but I'm having a "bad back day" and it tends to make me feisty (David Banner, "Don't get me angry. You won't like me when I'm angry." Shirt starts to rip as he begins to turn green and into The Hulk, LOL). Normally, I read your stuff and without even looking at the tag line I'm thinking, "Oh, It's Cory doing his 'if Skip Bayless was a Packer fan what would he write to get clicks" kind of thing, but this article you actually seem to believe what you are spouting and it's kind of shocking. You write well but seem to be the Howard Stern shock jock on this site. Nothing wrong with that if that's your gig. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if Hundley has a bad performance (I don't expect that) I could see you having an article here on Monday with the title, "Packers need to sign:" and then something like a) Kapernick, b) Romo, or c) Brett Favre. :). I'm teasing a bit, but not by much. You do a nice job of "generating discussion" here and you've even got me multiple posting on this article, LOL. I come to this site to learn about the Packers and football, IMHO I don't get that from your articles and it is why you are my least favorite contributor here. That's okay it's a free site and I should be happy to read anything about the Packers here. I know you aren't going away anytime soon so I guess I could always choose not to read your articles, but, hey, it's like watching a train wreck: you want to look away but you just can't. :).
Anyways, just a readers opinion. Peace out.

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PETER MAIZ's picture

October 21, 2017 at 12:58 pm

Hundley said that he's different than Rodgers? The next couple of games will give us an idea of what "different" means. If he is suggesting he's on par with Mr. Rodgers, I'd say he's hallucinating.

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Jordan's picture

October 22, 2017 at 09:14 am

If you go back to the 2008 season, you'll remember that Rodgers often had the deer in the headlights look.

I would expect Hundley to show his deer in the headlights look often today. It just comes with the territory for a "newish" guy. Hundley looked ok. He just needs to play faster (easier said than done).

Hundley knows he has dead end career in GB. He doesn't want to be a career backup. Nothing wrong with that.

I hope Hundley lights it up and the Packers win every game.....and they trade him for a first round pick after the season.

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marpag1's picture

October 21, 2017 at 06:32 pm

This is the author who recently insisted that McCarthy needed to spill his guts to the media by sharing all of the details of the Damarious Randall benching. I suspect that he is not a real expert on how NFL coaches and players should address the media.

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Since'61's picture

October 22, 2017 at 10:40 am

It's OK Marpag, the Green Bay media is not a real media anyway. Thanks, Since '61

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Since'61's picture

October 22, 2017 at 10:39 am

I love the comment about Hundley doesn't want to upset the Green Bay media as if the Green Bay Media is actually a real media. They consistently throw softball, actually "pinky ball" questions at MM, Capers, TT and the players and now Cory is concerned the media will be upset with Hundley for being honest with them.

Try the New York media if you want to see a media upset with a player or coach or manager. At least the NY media asks real hardball questions and they don't stop until they get an answer whether it's the print, radio or TV reporters. They just keep pounding away. In the end Hundley is right, the Packers don't care and shouldn't care what the media does or says. This idea that the media is the voice of the fan is ridiculous. Just go to a game and listen to the applause or boos and that's where you will find the voice of the fan.

Over the years, especially the last 25 - 30 years I find that the media doesn't know what they are watching and usually doesn't know what they are talking about. As a result I rarely watch any of the pre-game circuses or read any of the alleged pundits predictions. I just watch the games usually with the sound off or very low and I can figure out the rest myself.

The media has become superfluous in it's insignificance. Thanks, Since '61

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Finwiz's picture

October 22, 2017 at 10:55 am

Excellent post Since '61,

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Since'61's picture

October 22, 2017 at 01:51 pm

Thanks Fin! Since '61

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Since'61's picture

October 22, 2017 at 01:56 pm

Jonathan - very accurate post. These forums provide a great outlet for people to make their comments. Whether it is sports, economics, gov't, etc. ,we can all see what's going on. The media should be reporting and providing facts not spinning everything to support their own agendas. Thanks, Since '61

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