Finley Set To Repeat Big Game Vs. Bears?

Matt Bowen of the National Football Post looks at how the Packers tight end could very well repeat the big day he had against the Bears in Week Three.

Be sure to check out Matt Bowen's post over at National Football Post today. He and I were chatting yesterday about what matchups the Packers will look to exploit against the Bears on Christmas night. Obviously, Jermichael Finley will most likely once again be a major component in what the Packers want to do on offense, much like he was back in Week Three when he caught seven passes for 85 yards and scored three touchdowns.

While the Bears are known for running Lovie Smith's beloved Tampa 2 defense, they have actually used less and less of it the last couple of years. Here's a sampling of how Bowen sees them defending the Packers:

The Bears have shown more Cover 1 and Under 10 (FS rolls down to weak side) in their game plans this season. The issue here is the safety position in Chicago. Craig Steltz has played some good football the last two weeks, but when we talk about the size, speed and route running ability of Finley, this is a matchup that favors Green Bay. Look for situations when the Packers remove Finley from the core of the formation (think backside X receiver, in the slot, bunch, etc). Working vs. press or off-man, Finely should be able to get vertical in the route tree and crate separation on inside breaking routes vs. Steltz. And you could see Lovie put free safety Brandon Meriweather over Finley if he produces early.

Make sure to read the whole thing. As usual, Matt has some great insights into the X's & O's.

 

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Comments (14)

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CSS's picture

December 21, 2011 at 10:02 am

I have a question regarding how they employ personnel in this game when they're so shorthanded on the offensive line. No doubt Finley is a mismatch against Cover-2, but how often will the Packers need 2 TE sets against pretty good Bears ends?

We're going to see fewer 3 receiver sets if they intend on going max pass-pro along with running Finley over the middle to challenge cover-2, right? He needs to release right away in order to beat the linebackers, so he doesn't even really have time to chip.

Will be really interesting to see what personnel McCarthy employs in this game. Finley's a weapon against their core defense, but you can't leave either Tackle on an island. Expect some designed roles to the right as well.

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PackerAaron's picture

December 21, 2011 at 10:07 am

Brought up that very thing when talking with Matt - but you know Mike. He'll run it some and, yes, use come 22 personnel (2 backs, 2 tight ends) - but he'll let Newhouse go up against Peppers one-on-one way more than you or I ever would.

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CSS's picture

December 21, 2011 at 10:10 am

You've got to think, despite McCarthy's stubborn nature, he will include more designed roll-outs with max pro in front of his face so he can see the rush. I know you hate taking away the back quarter of the field, but committing to the running game early right over Idonije and Peppers nose will help both play-action success and mitigation of the pass rush.

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CSS's picture

December 21, 2011 at 10:25 am

Let me backtrack on that. With cover-2 Rodgers will have a lot of chances to break contain and run for yardage against only a 4 man rush. Not that I want him to get killed (good decision making is a must), but defenses moving forward are going to have 7 guys with their backs to the line of scrimmage.

Nice to see a healthy mix from McCarthy to keep defenses guessing. I'm betting Rodgers gets a lot of running opportunities the remainder of the year after that Chiefs loss.

Here's to hoping he does so wisely.

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RockinRodgers's picture

December 21, 2011 at 10:13 am

How much does Finley or Rodgers play if the 49ers lose on Saturday?

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PackerAaron's picture

December 21, 2011 at 10:34 am

I think you'll see them for at least the first half, if not more. If they get up big early, they'll def be pulled though.

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FITZCORE1252's EVO's picture

December 21, 2011 at 10:16 am

Well, I hope Matt is right. I've had a couple days to cool down, and now I need him to produce... First round of my fantasy playoffs, and he's my guy! Oh, and the Packers need to win too.

GBP 4 LIFE

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jack in jersey city's picture

December 21, 2011 at 12:24 pm

fyi- i just saw this posted on twitter:

During an interview on WTSO/Madison this morning, @waynelarrivee said he doesn't expect #Packers OT Chad Clifton to return this season.

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PackerAaron's picture

December 21, 2011 at 12:26 pm

That's just, like, his opinion, man...

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PackerAaron's picture

December 21, 2011 at 12:49 pm

Also, Clifton was back at practice today.

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ibleedgrnngold's picture

December 21, 2011 at 01:27 pm

perhaps wayne left out a critical qualifier....regular* season

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MarkinMadison's picture

December 21, 2011 at 01:39 pm

That's the best news I've heard in a while.

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jack in jersey city's picture

December 21, 2011 at 01:42 pm

ok. i didn't know if wayne had some inside info that we weren't aware of. i also heard gary ellerson saying the same thing on "the big show" last week. i hope they are both wrong! good to see cliffy doing some drills in practice today.

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CincyPackFan's picture

December 21, 2011 at 04:04 pm

Ryan Grant is ready for a great game. He was last week, he just didn't GET THE BALL! i hope that changes this week. he excels on grass, in late-season muck.

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