Packers Need a Head Coach that can Reach Aaron Rodgers

The Green Bay Packers made a decisive move by letting go of head coach Mike McCarthy after the loss to the Arizona Cardinals but now the real work begins finding his successor.

As important as the decision to let McCarthy go was, it pales in comparison to what comes next for Mark Murphy and Brian Gutekunst.

They need to nail this next hire because if not, it's possible that the Packers will wreck the last chance they have at a Super Bowl with Aaron Rodgers.

Rodgers shouldn't have any input on who is hired, however, the Packers definitely need to take him into account when making the decision.

A defensive-minded head coach wouldn't be a bad move. Maybe it's necessary to fix a defense that has been the bane of Green Bay's existence for the last decade. 

Our own Aaron Nagler threw out of the possibility of the Chicago Bears Vic Fangio and maybe that wouldn't be a bad move. But still, the Packers need a coach with an offense that will excite Rodgers and make the game fun for him again.

Because Rodgers wasn't having fun this season and that was part of the problem.

Rodgers is a smart guy and this season, he just seemed stuck in a rut. He seemed bored of McCarthy's offense, frustrated with the gameplans and tired of the same old mistakes. Some of the mistakes were his, such as poor throws, bad timeouts and too much changing at the line of scrimmage, but at the same time, a coaches job is to get the best out of his players and McCarthy clearly didn't do that this season.

So now, the Packers have to find a coach who can or at least one that will build a staff that will help Rodgers transition into the final years of his career. He's not the same player he was, but he still is and can be one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL for the next five years.

Green Bay just has to find a way to get the best out of him and an exciting new offensive system seems like a great place to start. Whether the coach is young or old, as long as he has the intellect and the vision, Rodgers will respect him. He also has to have the stones to get in Aaron's grill when he's not playing the way he should.

There were many times this season when I wanted to see McCarthy do that, instead, he did nothing and in the process, he emasculated himself. He allowed the inmates to run the asylum and at the end of the day, it cost him his job.

Rodgers didn't quit and neither did the team, but they also didn't give him everything they had either. They knew McCarthy's job was on the line and they came out flat against one of the worst teams in pro football. That more than anything was the death knell.

McCarthy wasn't just fired because the Packers lost to the Cardinals. In my opinion, it had more to do with the fact that the team didn't appear willing to fight for its head coach. At the very least, the best player wasn't.

And that's a shame. But it also signaled the need for change. Rodgers needs someone that will inspire him again because right now he looks like he is enjoying his job about as much as anyone that works 8-5 and as long as that continues, Green Bay won't go anywhere, not as long as Rodgers is the quarterback. 

 

 

__________________________

Chris is a sports journalist from Montana and has been blogging about the Packers since 2011. Chris has been a staff writer for CheeseheadTV since 2017 and looks forward to the day when Aaron Rodgers wins his second Super Bowl. Follow him @thepackersguru

NFL Categories: 
-1 points
 

Comments (92)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
Lare's picture

December 06, 2018 at 01:02 pm

I think McCarthy would still have his job if he had completed the staff overhaul last offseason by bringing in a young talented OC (instead of Philbin) and anyone on the planet at ST (instead of Zook).

That said, I get a little concerned when people talk about hiring the best HC for one person. Rodgers will only be here for 4-5 more years so what do you do with his hand-picked coach when he leaves or gets injured?

Bottom line, get the best HC available that can run the team. Then, let him hire his staff to give the team the best chance to win.

7 points
9
2
jeremyjjbrown's picture

December 06, 2018 at 01:17 pm

Are you sure a young open minded offensive assistant would have come to Green Bay with MM calling the plays?

It's possible Philbin was the best of the coaches willing to do that.

3 points
5
2
Lare's picture

December 06, 2018 at 01:37 pm

Probably true with MM calling the plays. The only way the offense was going to improve is if MM would have stepped back and let the new OC run the offense.

-3 points
1
4
Leatherhead's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:24 pm

If you coach football, you want to win and get into bigger games. They work an incredible number of hours and put their product on the field and everybody can see.....And it's on film which is studied endlessly.

If you're offered a promotion you take it and do your best at whatever you're responsible for and hope it leads to a bigger game.

1 points
2
1
Barnacle's picture

December 07, 2018 at 03:59 am

JJ

Exactly, MM retained bad assistants, panicked during crunch time, consistatly wasted timeouts, played wrong players, wasted many hours of training camp and blamed players for bad “pad levels” after games for years.

Smart coaches would not want MM as a mentor. Blaming Rodgers for being uncoachable by MM is like blaming the Cleveland players for not winning under Hue Jackson’s coaching. Clearly they had good enough players to win some games, but an incompetent HC pulled losses from the jaws of victory.

I would not want Hue or MM on my resume and would take a lesser job with Belichek, Reid or Peyton or just about any other NFL HC except MM or Hue.

0 points
2
2
Leatherhead's picture

December 06, 2018 at 04:56 pm

The primary goal of Murphy, Gute, and whoever the next coach is will be transitioning to the post -Rodgers future. Just as McCarthy was hired to develop Rodgers and not squeeze another 4 or 5 years out Favre. It lasted two years.

We'll be taking a QB in the first round this year. Rodgers will be our QB until they think the new guy is ready.

-7 points
3
10
Leatherhead's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:49 pm

Rodgers may not be here 4-5 more years. Favre only lasted two years with the new coach, and the parting was.........unpleasant. But it was time for the new guy to get on the field.

Don't be surprised if we take a QB in the first round. Hire an HC that can develop the new guy and hope the old guy has another year or two in him.

1 points
3
2
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:12 pm

I've been saying this for almost a year now. Aaron Rodgers will not play here for 5 years. I predict he's either traded or retires in two more years. I projected Boyle to be the heir apparent in two more years but that now changes with MM being fired and a soon to be new head coach to be named. Most likely you are correct Old School. They will use one of those first rounders unfortunately on a qb. They have no choice because it's almost panic time the way Rodgers is playing and behaving. They only way they don't draft a qb in the first round is if the new head coach is impressed with Boyle as much as many of us are. I still have high hopes for him.

-1 points
3
4
Since'61's picture

December 06, 2018 at 01:37 pm

Rodgers needs a coach who will coach him. He has stated repeatedly that he wants to be coached. Maybe that means bringing Van Pelt back as the OC regardless of who is hired as the HC.

Also, it's a mistake to leave Rodgers out of the process. The Packers should at least discuss with him the type of coach they are thinking of hiring, unless they are thinking of trading Rodgers. But if not and Rodgers is unhappy The Packers have much bigger problems than they have now.

Since Rodgers is the only player they have and they invested a king's ransom in his salary, Rodgers is basically the guy who determines if they win or lose. If they hire a coach who has a different philosophy than Rodgers that would be a disaster.

Rodgers could walk or just decide to continue to throw passes away. What happens then? This is the problem when you have only one player who can win games for the team and when you have paid him a king's ransom. Cap wise the Packers are on the hook for the next 2-3 seasons so they need an HC who can work and build off of Rodgers skills. If not what was the point of firing McCarthy?

It will be interesting to see how the Packers handle this. I do hope they stay away from McDaniels and/or Harbaugh. McDanielsb because of his time and Denver and his last minute walk away from Indy.
Harbaugh because no NFL coach who has a Super Bowl has ever gone to another team and won another Super Bowl.

I'm confident the Packers have their list. I hope that Gute gets to make the decision after bouncing it off of Rodgers and that Murphy supports the choice. Beyond that the sooner the better so that the new HC is in place and contribute to off season personnel moves, FA signings and the draft process.
Thanks, Since '61

2 points
7
5
Leatherhead's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:42 pm

Rodgers is the only guy we have? Seriously? We couldn't have won any games with somebody else?

We have two solid guys at RB. We have a future HOF guy at TE. One of the top WRs in the league and a couple of promising rookies. Footballoutsiders rates our line near the top and PFF has four of our linemen as above average at their position.

That's just on offense.

If we had played this whole season with an average QB .....how much worse could it be?

-2 points
2.5
4.5
Oppy's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:56 pm

I have a great deal of respect for Since '61, but I tend to agree to some extent that the offense has more talent on it that just Aaron Rodgers. I agree about the running backs with Aaron Jones being quite a bit more than just solid, I believe Adams is without question top 10 and makes a case for top 5 , the WR corps as a whole (with a healthy Alison) is above average. While Graham isn't a bonafide pro bowler any longer, I think He, Lewis, and Tonyan are a decent group.

However, I have to assume your rankings of the OL are outdated, perhaps from before the season? Yes, Bakh it a stud, Taylor is good-not-great, Linsley is a plus-rated center. Bulaga has been a very good stalwart at RT over his career, but his injuries have caught up to him and although he's been a warrior, he's not playing very well in 2018. RG is in shambles. The right side of the OL needs rebuilt and in a hurry.

0 points
2
2
Since'61's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:44 pm

Oppy - yes we have Adams, Jones and Bak. Linsley is good but not great.
Defense double Adams and key on Jones. That leaves Aaron with no place to go with the ball.

When I talk about players I'm talking about players who can carry the team, who can win games and/or force the defense to react or adjust how they play to stop them. After Adams we don't have any serious threats. Jones is a good RB but he can't carry the offense when the passing game gets shut down. MVS and EQ are rookies and need time to develop into genuine NFL starters if that ever happens. Graham has been either bad or injured. He has not been much of a factor.

We know Crosby has cost us at 2-3 games. So that is why I'm saying this team needs better players. I posted a few days ago:

Keep Rodgers, Adams,Bak, Linsley, Jones and maybe Tonyan on offense and we could chuck everyone else on the offense. The rest of them are replaceable. Thanks, Since '61

-2 points
1
3
Since'61's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:01 pm

Old School - who on this offense scares a defense? Who can carry the offense besides Aaron Rodgers? Two solid RBs, I agree. But neither is going to win a game for you or carry the offense if Rodgers goes down. Does either one scare opposing defenses? We're not talking about LeVeon Bell here or Gale Sayers or Jim Brown. Neither one is a game breaker.

Yes, Adams is a top WR but teams double up n him because we have no other serious threats. MVS and Eq are still learning how to play and run their routes. They have not really added much over the last few games. Graham is either hurt or a non-factor. He may be a future HOFer but he hasn't played at that level for the Packers this season. Not even close, he looks lost out there half the time.

I don't how or what Footoutsiders or PFF are watching or using to evaluate our OL but except for Bak the OL has been very weak this season and they are getting worse as the season wears on. Rodgers gets way too much pressure up the middle and often so quickly he has no chance to look downfield. The play of both of our guards in pass pro has been very weak. I don't need PFF or any site to tell me that you just need to watch the games. Watch them play their footwork has been terrible.

Who on defense besides Alexander does a defense need to be concerned about? Maybe Clark. Sometimes Daniels. that's really about it.

If we played this season with an average QB we would have one win against Buffalo. Maybe Miami. 2 wins at the most. This team would have been a 4-10 since the 2014 season without Aaron Rodgers. And even in 2014 we only made the playoffs because Rodgers carried the team there one leg.

The problem is that he has carried a weak roster for so long that now we're in a season when he can't do it again and everything is his fault. when the reality is that this team does not even have one Pro-bowl player. Maybe Clark. And even if so, you can't win many games with one good player on offense and one on defense. This team is just not that good. Gute knows it and this is why he will continue chucking players who can't get it done. The question is how long will it take him to make the rest of the roster competitive again? Thanks, Since '61

1 points
4
3
Leatherhead's picture

December 07, 2018 at 12:42 pm

Since 61.....who scares anybody on the Vikings, or Lions or Bears on offense?

The people who study the film, frame by frame, and use objective grading systems disagree with you on the line, and so do I.

Here's the thing: We're 8th in passing offense. 8th. How does that happen if it's nothing but Rodgers and Adams behind a bad line and with a bad HC? How do we have one of the highest rushing averages in the league with two solid backs behind a bad line?

Who are you comparing Graham to? He's 7th among TEs in yardage. 7th. He's 8th in yards/catch. He's 5th in catches.

I think that your position that there is no talent on this offense that you can win a game with other than Rodgers is just flat out contradicted by the facts. Frankly, it reminds me of when people said we couldn't win without Favre, that he alone was worth 7 wins or whatever, and then we went 4-12 when injuries struck at RB and WR.

I'll say this: If Aaron Rodgers retired from football at the end of the season, or died, or was abducted by aliens, or whatever...... there is absolutely no reason we couldn't put an above average offense on the field next year.

Teams win. Not QBs. Not HCs.

1 points
2
1
Since'61's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:31 pm

The packers rank 16th in points scored at 23.4 per game. Points are the only stat that matters. It wouldn't matter if we were 1st in passing or 32nd in passing if we were scoring points and winning our games.

You didn't mention that we are ranked 26th in the league in 3rd down conversions. That seriously mitigates the other stats and rankings you mentioned.

I have repeatedly posted in this thread that we have Rodgers, Adams, and Jones as our weapons and not much else. Jones and Adams account for 40% of the yards gained by our offense. The rest of the yards gained are shared by 13 other players. Pretty much prove my point about the talent after Rodgers, Jones and Adams.

BTW, be sure to bring Hundley back to run that above average offense next year. See how above average it becomes when the QB cannot complete a pass. Or better yet let Kizer start. See how far the offense with a QB who fumbles the ball when hit and then throws a pick to a defender when he is about to be sacked. But everything is Rodgers fault because he holds the ball too long.

Check the records of the Rams, Saints, Chiefs, Pats, Texans, Chargers, Steelers, and then check how their QBs are playing. After that check how the 49ers, Redskins and Jags are doing without their starting QBs. Yes, teams win not just QBs but the teams that win are winning with good to great QB play.

As for our team we have won 4 games this season. That doesn't speak well of the team or the QB play. Case closed. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
2
1
Packerpasty's picture

December 07, 2018 at 05:17 pm

they rate that line near the top???? holy wah...

0 points
0
0
Slim11's picture

December 08, 2018 at 09:08 pm

The Packers need a coach whom Rodgers will respect. That doesn’t mean a coach Rodgers will like. There’s a big difference.

IMO, Rodgers doesn’t have 4-5 years. I think it’s closer to 2-3 years. As much as he wants too, I don’t see Rodgers lasting until he’s 40.

That said, he’ll need a HC/OC who has experience as a QB and/or an OC. I don’t want the Packers to hire an OC who’s an “up and coming young guy.” That person won’t command the respect from Rodgers a veteran OC will. There’s one such person available...Gary Kubiak.

The next HC in Green Bay needs to look closely at Kubiak as OC. He has experience as a QB (which Rodgers is said to like), has coached other veteran QBs (Elway and P. Manning as a QB coach/OC/HC) and has won two Super Bowls. Rodgers says he wants to be coached hard. Kubiak’s the one to do it.

1 points
1
0
TarynsEyes's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:04 pm

The moment this new HC gets in the grill of Rodgers for whatever reason...the fan/media base will likely crucify the HC because Rodgers can do no wrong.
A HC willing to come to GB knowing that will make the search even harder.
If Rodgers fails to adapt to a new offense,will it be because of his dislike of it or his defiance of being told how to play...Rodgers flips a coin weekly.
A monster has been created,possibly, to a level that gets fixed after the new Favre has left the building....possibly.

5 points
11
6
Lare's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:26 pm

A coach doesn't always need to "get in the grill" of players in order to get them to perform and do their jobs. A head coach deals with around 100 players & coaches on a daily basis, and good ones know how to deal with each one in a way that gets them to perform at a high level.

I don't know Rodgers personally, but I'm guessing he isn't the "monster" that many fans and the media (that also don't know him personally) depict him as. I would bet that Rodgers will be 100% supportive of a new offense that has a good chance of being productive. That is something he hasn't had in Green Bay in a while.

0 points
4
4
TarynsEyes's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:39 pm

McDaniels got in Brady's grill for all to see in a game and afterwards they worked together as if nothing happened.
I truly do not believe Rodgers will do same...he is vengeful...not as overt as some would be, but covertly fierce....IMO.

1 points
6
5
holmesmd's picture

December 06, 2018 at 09:54 pm

Wow, did you guys date or something?!;) LoL. Complete opinionated conjecture but speaking a bit less convicted would allow it to not sound like you are presenting “fact”. You’re not. Prognostication and prediction are often errant & games of those whom have developed a steady appetite for humility.;) I attempted to channel you there:P LoL

0 points
1
1
Guam's picture

December 06, 2018 at 03:26 pm

Good point Lare. There are lots of different ways to motivate people and "getting in their grill" is one of the poorer ones. Most people don't respond well to aggression and confrontation. You can be very demanding without being confrontational.

Rodgers is a bright guy and wants to succeed. If he is treated fairly and respectfully, I suspect he will respond quite positively. He just needs someone with better offensive concepts that will help him win.

0 points
3
3
Oppy's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:04 pm

Rodgers is extremely talented, brilliant, and charasmatic.

He also seems somewhat emotionally fragile and peculiar. And, I think, has become a diva with great PR skills.

I don't think things go well if a coach comes in and takes away the carte blanche power at he LOS that Rodgers has enjoyed for most of the last 6 seasons. IMO, that's exactly what needs to happen, though. The single biggest mistake MM made in his tenure with the Packers was giving too much control of the offense to his QB... and his QB was more than happy to let the fans and media skewer MM for poor play calling. (IMO).

3 points
4
1
cuervo's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:28 pm

"A monster has been created,possibly, to a level that gets fixed after the new Favre has left the building....possibly."

I think you may be correct, once Rodgers has his own dressing room and his own personal media day like the past Diva, we'll know the shark has been jumped.

2 points
4
2
mamasboy's picture

December 06, 2018 at 05:10 pm

I don't think as much of the fan/media base would be as upset to see someone get in his grill as you think. If Rogers continues to trend towards Jay Cutler style of on field motivational techniques (without winning), most would be gleeful to see that happen.

2 points
2
0
Packerpasty's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:19 pm

lets all dump on Rodgers...now all of a sudden McCarthy went from "he's gotta go with that stale game plan" to everyones best buddy...and Rodgers is the villain...just like jumping on another teams bandwagon...well Rodgers is here, he had a bad year...lets not forget his many many good years, probably making his HC look much better than he was in the process...McCarthy's a great guy...yippie, good for him, he won't be out of work for long, go put that old style west coast offense in place in Cleveland see how that young gun likes that....

-1 points
3
4
Packerpasty's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:21 pm

oh, and take your plastic play cards with you..hope the next coach actually makes in game adjustments not stare befuddled at a placard..

-2 points
3
5
Oppy's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:07 pm

Have you watched football lately? Most NFL HC's have cards similar play cards. It's called "being organized".

4 points
7
3
Demon's picture

December 07, 2018 at 10:09 am

Yeah but most head coaches have something other that whats on special at every restaurant in town on it.

I agree with the above poster that everyones making AR out as the villain because poor Mcmuffin got canned . BOO HOO!! AR wants to win and hes smart enough to know he wasnt going to get anywhere with MM. Remember this is the guy who thought Capers, Slocum, Zook and Moss were good coaches.

Just like last year when everone crucified Randall for speaking the truth. There was no accountability in Green Bay. The same stupid players who were making mistakes were trotted out week after week.

At least Gutes trying to clean up the TT ,MM mess and restore respectability.

-2 points
1
3
TKWorldWide's picture

December 07, 2018 at 05:55 am

Agreed, and I think the “12 can do no wrong” idea is fading, too.

1 points
2
1
badaxed's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:43 am

That "train has left the station". Same track same direction.

0 points
0
0
Johnblood27's picture

December 07, 2018 at 10:21 am

are you saying that we have "crossed the rubicon"?

0 points
0
0
stockholder's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:13 pm

Forget that. You can't teach an old dog new tricks. He says nothing is wrong with him. The change must happen at the offensive line first. He won't admit anything until he is given more time. He won't play like Arron until he is given more time. He Won't, he won't, he won't. His excuses are time. As long as the two minute drill works. Arron will not accept coaching. He needs new friends. Friends on that offensive line, that say," Arron we got your back." Players that want more than just making a buck. Friends that he can be grateful for.

-3 points
1
4
holmesmd's picture

December 06, 2018 at 09:58 pm

I just flashed back to seeing a presser of Frank Winters!!:P LoL. Well done sir, well done!

1 points
1
0
Johnblood27's picture

December 07, 2018 at 10:22 am

ah yes!

The ol' bag-o-donuts!

1 points
1
0
Packer_Fan's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:20 pm

I don't think the Pack are that far away. A new coach that system is a better fit for the talent. A renewed Rodgers. Getting some talent for the OL and depth. And another draft, and the Pack will be right back in the hunt. But this year highlighted some of the weaknesses that need to be corrected.

3 points
4
1
TarynsEyes's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:23 pm

" I don't think the Pack are that far away."

Depends on the map scale....one inch can equal...really far!

2 points
4
2
holmesmd's picture

December 06, 2018 at 10:01 pm

Come on Taryn! Couldn’t 1 inch also equal really short?!;) Haha. Are you ever optimistic or hopeful about anything? I’m just wondering. You seem to struggle with the concept of optimism....just sayin

-1 points
1
2
Leatherhead's picture

December 06, 2018 at 05:07 pm

We're not far away. If a new coach and new personnel result in better play from the QB position.

Better special teams play alone would have us 8-4 instead of 4-7-1.

1 points
2
1
Since'61's picture

December 06, 2018 at 02:44 pm

Aaron Nagler - I just heard your interview with WFAN - NY. You did an excellent job. Congratulations.

If is actually true that the Packers offense is not much more than Rodgers makes his first read and if it’s not there he is supposed to break contain and make a play that’s pretty ridiculous. It also explains Rodgers frustration, the throwaways and the misuse of timeouts.

I
As I have posted it has looked to me like Rodgers has needed some help out there and now I know why. The offensive system needs to be better than one read, or break contain and make a play. Once again I enjoyed hearing your interview. Nice job. Thanks, Since ‘61

-1 points
4
5
jww061356's picture

December 06, 2018 at 03:01 pm

I think the new HC has to be a guy that doesn't have to get in somebody's grill; he has to command respect from the get go. Bring in a defensive minded coach and bring back Alex Van Pelt. He has the pedigree to be an OC, and he and Rogers cooking in the kitchen to dream up new wrinkles could be fun. Hire a defensive minded Coach(Fangio) who knows how to put a D together and can also tell the O what their weaknesses are(he has exploited them at nearly every meeting). Not to mention a little addition by subtraction within the division. He could be the next Zimmer, and that might not be so bad. With cap room and another FA offseason and draft, we could add 3-4 pieces on each side of the ball and be on our way to being a legitimate contender again.

-3 points
0
3
croatpackfan's picture

December 06, 2018 at 03:27 pm

Packers (NOT AARON RODGERS) needs excellent HC, because talent is there. Aaron Rodgers need that HC who will kick him in his ass for every missed throw or wrongly changed play and remind him that he is jack ass who'll receive 110 mil $ from the Packers and who need to earn that money, not to be entertained...

Sorry guys, I really do not care to lick Aaron's ass. Packers paid him. He needs to deliver the best for that money, not tpo play bored Diva...

1 points
10
9
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 06, 2018 at 03:42 pm

Croat, you had me at Packers. One of your best.

Dash

4 points
4
0
Since'61's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:44 pm

Croat - the Packers talent includes Rodgers, Adams, Bak, Jones and Linsley on offense. After that there is not much. MVS and EQ may evolve but they may not or they may even regress. We can't count them as talent yet.

Ondefense there is Daniels, Clark, Martinez, and Alexander. King when he is not hurt. After that not much again. Plenty of inconsistent players who show flashes now and again.

We could replace everyone but the nine players I have listed and it wouldn't matter. This team is just not that good.

Special teams keep Scott. That gives us 10 keepers out of 53. I like Crosby but he has cost us at least 2 and more like 3 games this season. If we can find another kicker we should move on from Crosby as well.

Whether we like it or not this team needs a lot of work. We have 5 players left from the 34 players drafted from 2012 - 2015 drafts. That 5 players left out of 4 drafts. Bak, Adams, Linsley, Daniels and Ryan. 6 if you want to count Perry but since he never plays I can't count him.

Those 4 terrible drafts have killed this team. We should have at least 10-12 starters from those drafts. We are left with the 5 players I listed and Aaron Rodgers. After that we are depending on the 2016, 2017 and 2018 drafts. We have some good players in those drafts but except for Clark, Martinez, Alexander and Jones the others are either hurt or still developing.

The Packers need an HC that can work with younger players and build a team for probably the 2020/2021 seasons. Maybe 2019 if everything breaks right during this offseason. Aaron Rodgers need an HC or an OC that will work with him and coach him as a partner. Like it or not this team is in a partnership with Aaron Rodgers for at least the next 2-3 seasons. For two reasons, first he is their only hope to win another SB in the near to mid-term future assuming we get some players around him. Secondly they are paying him too much money to not have him involved with the process of building the offense.

Rodgers is not the first QB or player to evolve into a prima Dona in the NFL. Most of the great QBs have gone down that trail. Joe Montana, Johnny U, Joe Namath, Dan Marino, John Elway, Brett Favre, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees to name just a few. These guys reach a point where they run the offense. It becomes their team. Why? Because you cannot play without them, never mind try to win without them. Any of these guys go down their team is done for the season and maybe longer. It's part of the game. It is what this league has allowed to happen with their rule changes and having playing defense become illegal. This is a QBs league and they know it. They are the kings on the field. They are partners with the coaches and the management. That's reality. The game has become entertainment and the QBs are the mega stars. Not anyone's fault. Not better or worse than the past. Just the way it is. No Rodgers, no Packers. At least not until you find another Rodgers or Favre or Starr or Unitas or Montana or whoever. Except for a few seasons with Lynn Dickey the Packers wandered the NFL wilderness from 1970 to 1992. They traded for Brett Favre and became relevant again. There is no guarantee that we are not returning to that wilderness again, especially once Rodgers leaves for whatever reason. Thanks, Since '61

2 points
6
4
croatpackfan's picture

December 07, 2018 at 05:27 am

Since, generally speaking, I can agree with what you wrote. But I do not know any NFL Franchise that have much more talent on the both side of the ball (when we are talking about AllL-Pro level of talent!) . And I agree with you that Packers need pro-bowl level at OLB and at S. ILB would be OK with very good player as Blake Martinez is. Regarding offensive side of the ball Packers desperately needs high talented TE (level of Hunter Henry, Reed and similar) and at least very good RG and very good RT. I believe Brian is not in that category any more.

I also almost always up-voting your posts because you are looking into tomorrow. I truly believe it is the best and only corect way.

Regarding Aaron, I agree that he is not the first who is acting like Diva. But that is not the argument to let him continue with "Diva-ing". My largest criticism on Mike McCarthy was that he did not recognize the moment when Aaron started to play Diva and not stopped that immediately.

And I strongly believe that HC who will be able to stop it clearly and decisively will turn back to us Aaron we knew and we love...

2 points
3
1
Packerpasty's picture

December 07, 2018 at 09:10 am

once again a well thought out comment from "Since '61"....thumbs up.

0 points
2
2
TKWorldWide's picture

December 07, 2018 at 09:12 pm

@61: As usual, lots and lots of good points, but, hasn’t the game ALWAYS been entertainment?
Or do you mean, the rules favoring offense has been an attempt to appeal to the casual fan, who, for whatever reason, prefers 41-38 shootouts over a 14-10 game?

0 points
0
0
JohnnyLogan's picture

December 06, 2018 at 03:36 pm

Error message

1 points
1
0
packerbackerjim's picture

December 06, 2018 at 03:54 pm

T.J. Housemandzadeh speculated Rodgers would be intrigued by the prospect of working with McDaniels, referencing Brady’s comment Rodgers would throw for 7000 yards were he to work in the Patriot system. Almost as if he could pick up the gauntlet which was thrown. Interesting!

1 points
1
0
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 06, 2018 at 04:16 pm

If this comes down to finding a head coach who Rodgers respects and admires than there's only one choice. It's of course Ted Tedford. If Ted agrees to this we need to do this ASAP. We need Rodgers happy and smiling. I don't know much about him nor do I care if he's even the most qualified. This next pick we need to make sure that Aaron Rodgers loves and gets along with him. Any other head coach is rolling the dice. I would be ok with Aaron and Ted working side by side in perfect harmony. We can't afford another mistake. Murphy, go get Ted Tedford!!

0 points
1
1
TarynsEyes's picture

December 06, 2018 at 04:30 pm

So " In TT We Trust " may be a thing again?

1 points
2
1
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 06, 2018 at 04:44 pm

Absolutely. I know Archie would be thrilled to see that come back. Win WIN.

1 points
1
0
Fire_Gute's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:08 pm

Wasn't his name Jeff Tedford?

1 points
1
0
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:16 pm

You are correct. Must have still had Ted Thompson on my mind. I blame Archie as he's still screaming about him. Yes, it's Jeff Tedford not Ted Tedford.

0 points
0
0
LeotisHarris's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:03 pm

Do you think he'd be willing to change his name from Jeff to Ted? We're all about change at 1265 these days.

1 points
2
1
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 06, 2018 at 09:00 pm

Only if Aaron would be willing to change his name to Humble.

1 points
2
1
dobber's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:37 am

Since he's been playing more like Fred Rodgers recently, I think he might go for it.

3 points
3
0
Demon's picture

December 07, 2018 at 12:20 pm

Wth is Ted Tedford? Isnt it Jeff Tedford? HC of the Fresno State Bulldogs.

0 points
0
0
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 07, 2018 at 12:31 pm

You obviously read that it was a mistake. Yes it's Teff Jedford. Apologies to you White tornado for any inconvenience I may have caused you.

Dash

0 points
0
0
-1 points
0
1
4thand1's picture

December 06, 2018 at 05:09 pm

Just watched pardon the interuption. They were talking to Steve Young. They said philbin hasn't called a play in the NFL in over 20 years. WTF?

-1 points
0
1
LeotisHarris's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:27 pm

Did either Tony or Mike mention anything about the size of Philbin's balls, and whether or not he'd be handcuffed on Sunday? Asking for a friend.

Did Steve give any indication if he stills call Aaron to say goodnight? During the magical years, 12 had Tom Clements in his ear every day and Steve calling at night to tuck him in. If only we could return to that simpler time.

-1 points
1
2
dobber's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:38 am

As far as I know, he didn't call his own plays in Miami, and has never regularly called regular season plays in the NFL. His last gig as a playcaller was in college. We have no idea what he'll do...

0 points
0
0
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 07, 2018 at 11:18 am

The last time Philbin called a play was when he had hair. We're talking 30 plus years ago. I just wonder how not having hair now will influence how aggressive he gets with his calls. Generally speaking most bald men that I see are more conservative so I would expect a little more running against Atlanta.

0 points
1
1
LeotisHarris's picture

December 08, 2018 at 03:24 pm

Larry McCarren pointed out on a painful edition of the this week's television program formally known as The Mike McCarthy Show that Philbin's coaching roots are in the offensive line. The Rock was excited (I know, I know he *has* to say he's excited about Sunday) to see the Packers run the football.

I'm pulling for Joe. I hope he does well.

0 points
0
0
Packers0808's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:01 pm

The whole trouble here wasn't McCarthy, it was Rodgers who thinks he is player coach! He is the one who should have taken the lumps not McCarthy!

-2 points
4
6
sonomaca's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:16 pm

Well, Rodgers believes he’s the smartest guy in the league, and he might be right (Belichik excepted). They need a HC who can beat Rodgers at chess, or another other game you care to name.

1 points
1
0
Packerpasty's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:14 pm

you meant, "a whole lot of the trouble was McCarthy" didn't you....you should be thanking Rodgers for the wins he's brought the team in the last few years despite a stale worn out vertical bombs away game plan...

0 points
2
2
Fire_Gute's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:38 pm

Green Bays ineptitude is the result of a perfect storm brewing for years. Horrible drafting, completely neglecting talent on offense, stale and ineffictive scheme, terrible coaching, no one person is to blame or is without blame, Rodgers included. But Rodgers did not tank to get Mccarthy fired. He's so unbelievably concerned about his legacy he would not do that. He also didn't magically fall off some cliff. He's still a great QB and will be again.

There is very little talent on this offense. There are 3 + level players on this offense, Rodgers not included. Adams, Jones, and Bakh. Lindsey is a notch below. That's it. Everyone else is replacement level or incomplete. Rodgers knows this, and knows this team isn't talented or disciplined enough to go 10 plays down the field to score. When Bulaga is out, the right side of the line couldn't be any worse.

The offense also couldn't get into a rhythm because whenever something is working, Mccarthy would stop using whatever it was. He was incapable of making an adjustment to exploit a teams weakness. When the offense looked good, its because the gameplan going into the game was good,not because of what occurred in game or at halftime.

We are far away from being a good team right now. So were the rams 2 years ago. So were the bears last year. There is a ton of work to do, but this should be a GMs dream. Tons of cap space, 3 picks in the top 45, very few bad contracts left and the ability to get out of all of them. I know Rodgers makes a ton, but were not paying a RB, CB, S,MLB, can get out of paying either OLB. There's enough money to spend

1 points
4
3
Tundraboy's picture

December 06, 2018 at 06:56 pm

Thank you for making sense here today. Totally agree.

0 points
2
2
Since'61's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:09 pm

Great post. I've been saying the same thing. This team needs better players. You and I agree perfectly on what's left of the offense and it isn't much after Rodgers, Adams, Bak, Jones and Linsley. Chuck the rest and start over. That's where we are.

On defense keep Daniels, Clark, Alexander, Martinez and maybe King. Then the same thing. Chuck the rest and start over.

And the way Gute has been going I think he feels the same way. He is going to keep chucking guys until he makes this roster competitive at the NFL level. The only question is how long will it take? Thanks, Since '61

-1 points
3
4
Fire_Gute's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:37 pm

Id like them to keep king, but you can't count on him as a starter and he's not a nickel/slot guy so he's pretty much a number 4 at this point. Keep him because he's cheap, but he's plan b. And I certainly don't want to pay him if he has a breakout 3rd or 4th season, which could certainly happen.

-2 points
1
3
Roadrunner23's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:01 pm

Im not a huge Jim Harbaugh fan,
but........Harbaugh is a fiery leader and the post game pressers would be entertaining to say the least!
He would be my choice

-1 points
2
3
holmesmd's picture

December 06, 2018 at 10:12 pm

Please God, no

-2 points
0
2
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 07, 2018 at 12:02 am

Yeah, that's not a bad choice nostradanus. We need a hard ass that's for sure. Someone who isn't afraid to tell another their faults. There's only a few. Rex Ryan, Jim Harbaugh, and possibly Don Rickles but Rickles might be too old at this point.

2 points
2
0
dobber's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:39 am

They could carry his urn up and down the sidelines.

1 points
1
0
LeotisHarris's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:45 am

I love that idea, doober. An Urn Carrier just for Rickles. Let's hear Joe Buck explain *that*!

2 points
2
0
Skip greenBayless's picture

December 07, 2018 at 11:41 am

Could you imagine Rodgers at a Dean Martin Roast with Rickles as one of the guests roasting Rodgers? Oh my God. Rodgers would probably deck him and walk off. Rickles would never survive today due to political correctness.

0 points
0
0
Packerpasty's picture

December 07, 2018 at 09:08 am

well he's leading a Michigan team that isn't in step with current high scoring collegiate football...he loved Bo, "grind it out, 3 yards and a cloud of dust"..granted his qb isn't setting the world on fire but not sure he's the guy to come back to the NFL in GB....

0 points
0
0
PAPackerbacker's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:04 pm

It's not all about who is the best coach for Rodgers. It's about who would be the best coach for the team. Rodgers gets paid handsomely to do what is best for the team not what is best for Rodgers. The Packers need a coach who commands respect from everyone on the team, including the other coaches, the starters, the back ups, and down to the practice squad players. Hiring a coach to make one player happy makes no sense at all. They need a coach who can communicate well and one who isn't afraid to call out players for poor performance. One who recognizes the immediate need for improvement and makes the changes necessary to get the job done and get the team fired up and ready to play 60 minutes of football. They need a motivator.

4 points
4
0
LambeauPlain's picture

December 07, 2018 at 11:43 am

Two thumbs up!

1 points
1
0
LeotisHarris's picture

December 06, 2018 at 07:31 pm

Cliche Count:

1. made a decisive move.
2. but now the real work begins.
3. pales in comparison.
4. need to nail this next hire.
5. has been the bane of ...existence.
6. threw out... the possibility
7. wouldn't be a bad move.
8. that was part of the problem.
9. stuck in a rut.
10. tired of the same old..
11. but at the same time.
12. seems like a great place to start.
13. has to have the stones.
14. allowed the inmates to run the asylum.
15.at the end of the day.
16. it cost him his job.
17. didn't give him everything they had.
18. job was on the line.
19. they came out flat.
20. that... was the death knell.
21 that's a shame.
22. won't go anywhere.

0 points
3
3
TKWorldWide's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:04 pm

Redacted.
Dwight Schrute taught me that word.

0 points
1
1
LeotisHarris's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:12 pm

FWIW I felt with all my heart you gave 110% in your comment on the aforementioned list.

Moving forward, I'm uncertain if I can handle you being both a TKstinator and a Redactor.

0 points
1
1
Johnblood27's picture

December 07, 2018 at 10:34 am

Thats a plethora of cliches...

1 points
1
0
Rebecca's picture

December 06, 2018 at 08:50 pm

I really like this. But having said that, I’m a diva!

2 points
3
1
4zone's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:10 am

We need to hire the guy who 'knows' how to fix this team. Not the one who 'thinks he knows'. And who can make it happen.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:40 am

The only distinction between the two at this point comes 3-5 years down the road.

1 points
1
0
Johnblood27's picture

December 07, 2018 at 10:35 am

at the standard pay rate and a 3-5 year window to determine success, where do I apply?

0 points
0
0
LambeauPlain's picture

December 07, 2018 at 11:41 am

If the primary objective of Murphy and Gute is to find a guy who can reach Rodgers, I expect it will fail the team.

I want a coach who can coach...the entire team, not just the offense.

For 13 years, MM was mostly a highly paid OC and the Defense and STs suffered as he mostly ignored these other two squads.

I want a communicator and teacher and leader who interacts with all the players and coaches on a regular basis. Manage the entire team and LEAD it.

And I am confident Rodgers will follow.

2 points
2
0
Southside's picture

December 07, 2018 at 03:07 pm

Something I have not heard discussed much. What kind of compensation would the Packers have to pay for a top NFL offensive coordinator if they wanted him for their head coach position? 1 or 2 first round drat picks plus a couple others? I have no idea. Your thoughts?

1 points
1
0
Ken's picture

December 07, 2018 at 08:15 pm

McCarthy said he did a complete "scrub" of the offense during the off season which gave me hope. I thought that meant more schemes to get receivers open like the Patriots (notice that Brady is throwing to open receivers most of the time?) . However, the result looked exactly the same as last year; receivers having to beat their man one on one; stop and go patterns; curl patterns. very little rub and pick routes; very little crossing routes; very little RB receiver routes. Stale. No wonder Rodgers was ticked off. Change in HC is really needed. Not sure if Philbin is more of the same bc he was involved with the scrubbing of the offense.

2 points
2
0