Yes, it's time for Aaron Rodgers to put up or shut up

It's time for a franchise quarterback to start showing a return on said franchise's considerable investment. 

This, from Mike Tanier over at Bleacher Report, is spot on. 

"The next few weeks are a chance for Rodgers to live up to his reputation after a few too many seasons of coasting on it.

Now, there are two schools of thought when it comes to Rodgers, just as there are two schools of thought about every other NFL quarterback:

The pro-Rodgers argument: He has been the league's best pure passer and playmaker since 2011, and he has only looked ordinary for long stretches of the last three to five seasons because of stale game plans and weak supporting casts.

The anti-Rodgers argument: His accuracy and big-play capability decline incrementally each year, but he has tuned out coaches and ignored open receivers for so long and has such a huge salary and gift for passive-aggressive blame deflection that no one in Green Bay has the authority or courage to force him to adjust.

The truth about every quarterback always rests somewhere between the capes and the critics."

I found this to be particularly spot on:

"That doesn't mean Rodgers must do everything single-handedly. Just the opposite: He must evolve the way the best-of-the-best are supposed to late in their careers. Brady replaced Randy Moss rocketry with a much more surgical approach. Peyton Manning changed teams and coaches at age 36 with his trademark professionalism and reached two Super Bowls. John Elway settled into a run-oriented system at age 36 and won two Super Bowls. They all met new coaches, weapons and realities about their declining skills halfway by learning to thrive in new systems or environments. 

...but if Rodgers can't take this Packers team to the Super Bowl, it really means the next thing that must soon change in Green Bay is the quarterback. And it will all be because the quarterback himself refuses to change."

 

And before you grumble about the "lack of weapons" for Rodgers, read the whole thing. Mike addresses it.

Look, I love Aaron Rodgers. He's a generational talent that set an impossibly high standard for himself with brilliant play for long stretches of his career. But he has not only not approached those lofty heights this year, he hasn't really approached the heights one would expect (outside of the odd game against weaker competition) of any franchise quarterback with legitimate asspirations of putting another championship on his resume. 

The Packers franchise went all in on Rodgers both with the contract they gave him (At the time he signed his current deal, Rodgers was the highest paid player in the history of the league) and by reshaping the entire roster and coaching staff so that he dosen't have to be Superman every week. 

They may not need him to don the cape for a possible run, but they do need him to leave his Fortress of Solitude and join the Super Friends. (The old heads will get it) if this team wants to have a legitimate shot at another Lombardi. 

Can he? I have no doubt. Will he? I can't wait to find out. 

 

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.

__________________________

23 points
 

Comments (86)

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

January 09, 2020 at 10:13 am

I just read that one too. He's correct. I am expecting Rodgers to step up big time. He's got to know he has no guarantees of another #2 seed in the playoffs.

13 points
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pacman's picture

January 09, 2020 at 10:13 am

This will be the perfect game to find out - Seattle with the weak run defense and where there is no more freedom to say 'just let me try it again for another week'

I will only modify your last line slightly - "I am nervous to find out".

9 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 09, 2020 at 10:25 am

He can pick apart their zone if the WRs get there on time and make the correct read. They all have to pay attention. Get the ball out and make the catch. Fundamentals.

5 points
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croatpackfan's picture

January 10, 2020 at 02:01 am

"...if the WRs get there on time..."

"He can pick apart their zone if" his throws will be on spot to open receivers, not behind them, or to much in front of them or to short down field.

I agree there is few drops which I will sign to WRs and TEs but 90% of "drops" are the ball behind or ball overthrown or under thrown. That is what really bothers me and makes me nervous.

It is also interesting that all the throws Aaron made in the last second, or already with defender on him is throws we remember as Signature Aaron's throws.

So, when his throws follows his "muscle memory" all those balls are perfect to catch. When he are trying to overthink the throws, he misses.

2 points
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Christian Roussel's picture

January 09, 2020 at 10:26 am

While i agree with most of what is said here, and the fact that AR12 needs to pick up his game, the Super Bowl thing is a little to much. The 49ers have a much better squad than the Packers and to say that he needs to shut up if they eventually lose to San Francisco is putting to much blame on QB1 shoulders. But yes, since the contract he hasn't played to the expected level. Like Ben in Pittsburgh, like Matt Ryan, and Matthew Stafford, and Kirk Cousins and Derek Carr, and Nick Foles, and many others.

9 points
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porupack's picture

January 09, 2020 at 10:34 am

I don't think they said he had to win the superbowl to quiet the doubters, but just elevate significantly which gives them a chance at the superbowl or championship to his resume. That's how I read it anyway.

2 points
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Christian Roussel's picture

January 09, 2020 at 10:54 am

When you go to the Bleacher Report Packers page, the subtitle is this : If Rodgers can't take this Packers to the SB, the next thing that must change in Green Bay is the QB

2 points
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Lare's picture

January 09, 2020 at 01:21 pm

Another in a long line of anti-Rodgers articles over the past year.

Click bait

3 points
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BoCallahan's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:50 pm

I don’t read Bleacher Report anymore. I can’t stand their political bias. I removed their app.

0 points
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jeremyjjbrown's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:11 am

He said it. It's a 13-3 team even with his mediocre play. He has a huge salary.

If Rodgers ups his play and they still can't get to the Super Bowl then so be it. But if he continues to be a middle performer on the team then they should draft a QB.

2 points
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dblbogey's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:28 pm

I'm afraid Rodgers will be here at least 3 more years, due to the cap consequences of his contract.

-2 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 15, 2020 at 11:28 am

You can always callback Mccarthy's guy, Callahan.

0 points
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pacman's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:51 am

With this D and RB's and now reasonable return team, the only piece missing is the passing game. Of course if you play a great team you might not win. But this article applies to this game against Seattle. Let's leave the commentary for what the Packers have to do after this week until next week.

We need to be 1-0 this week.

4 points
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splitpea1's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:14 am

That's pretty much what I would say, too. Rodgers definitely needs a solid performance (and win) against Seattle at home, but if the Packers end up having to play San Francisco....that's a tall order to pull off a win there. As important as the quarterback position is, it's still a team game, and it's going to take a total team effort to beat the top seeds.

4 points
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porupack's picture

January 09, 2020 at 10:31 am

Wow. Quite the headline and hard hitting statement.

Thanks for redistributing. Its nice that it contrast the 2 views, and makes no apologies that 'now is the time'.

I tended to be in Rodger's defense most of last 2 years, but, yep, I agree. This next game(s) is his chance to make it clear where he is at; show what he will do as long as his supporting cast gives him a reasonable chance with no egregious gaffes or no-show.

3 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 09, 2020 at 12:26 pm

The guy came back from a snapped collar bone and played last year with a fissure in his kneecap. Pack 30-seasquawks 17.

1 points
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Tundraboy's picture

January 09, 2020 at 09:05 pm

Totally agree with your point. I got to think though that Rodgers is as pissed about losing to Seattle as we are. We'll see.

0 points
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Cheesey51's picture

January 10, 2020 at 07:00 am

I agree.
This statement js harsh yet "It's the fact jack", AR has been off his game the past weeks . He needs to step it up.
The team and especially the defense, stood up to the vikings in the glass house. Now it is time for AR to bring his game. He'll prove he can take advantage of what the Hawks offer him.

0 points
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Michael Hughes's picture

January 09, 2020 at 10:52 am

Another counter arguement...

When you use virtually all your defence and basically ignore skill players entirely then maybe its the job of the defence to win the game and the quarterback to not lose it.

Isn't this exactly what has happened? For the whining, the 4 interceptions one of which was basically a punt with no downside is a huge part of why we ended up with a bye.

It's not pretty but maybe that's how you win.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 09, 2020 at 12:29 pm

Two of the picks came off receiver's failed catches. Do not turn the ball over and keep the opponent deep in their territory.

1 points
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Cubbygold's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:07 pm

Green Bay has the highest paid offense in the NFL. #1 out of 32

Your narrative could ring true for some, but not this team. Nobody spends more on offense than Green Bay, it's on the offense to win games.

3 points
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JohnnyLogan's picture

January 09, 2020 at 07:04 pm

Great QB, two great tackles, a top-five WR and a bum at TE. That's it. That's who is getting paid on the offense. Practice squad WRs are what is offense this team back.

0 points
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Cubbygold's picture

January 10, 2020 at 05:26 am

Doesn't matter. Finite resources, just like every team. This offense has been given the biggest budget of any, the responsibility is theirs.

0 points
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4zone's picture

January 10, 2020 at 08:19 am

Brett had a similar issue throughout his career. He kept trying to fit the football in between multiple defenders and ended up throwing way more interceptions than necessary. I thought as his career came nearer the end, he would dial it back for a more finesse approach but it never happened. It would have been something to watch.

AR can be a surgeon with a hurry up, quick strike passing game. He could totally dismantle defenses if he could just learn to get rid of the ball much quicker instead of going for home runs way too often.

Brett is done now, AR still has time. Will he adapt, or will he ride an old pony all the way to the barn?

5 points
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Tundraboy's picture

January 09, 2020 at 09:12 pm

Yep

0 points
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CAG123's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:02 am

If Rodgers can play at the level of Alex Smith from 2012-2017 I’d be satisfied he was accurate, efficient and didn’t turn the ball over Rodgers has the ability to do all and still pass for 4000 yards and 24-28 TDs.

1 points
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Tundraboy's picture

January 09, 2020 at 09:17 pm

Don't mention Smith's name in comparison to Aaron. Or maybe someone should.

0 points
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Lare's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:14 am

IMO, every Packers player has to do his part to win these games in the playoffs. That includes Rodgers making accurate passes, receivers catching the ball, kickers making good kicks, OL making good blocks, coaches calling correct plays, everyone holding on to the football and players not making stupid mistakes. Yes, the QB's job is really important because he handles the ball so much, but if he does his job correctly and many others screw up they'll lose the game in spite of his performance.

7 points
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murf7777's picture

January 09, 2020 at 12:16 pm

Lare.... you’re right on the money, it takes all players and coaches, not just the QB. I think many times they get too much credit and blame.

4 points
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Cubbygold's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:10 pm

Very true. Games are won and lost in many ways, some even on special teams... think GB may have been on the wrong end of one of those a few years ago, can't put my finger on it though...

2 wins to the Super Bowl, every play matters

1 points
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stockholder's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:18 am

Give the guy some space. The higher the top the longer the drop. His article wasn't about anything else. Replace RODGERS? Like All -pro Qbs grow on trees? Bleacher Report isn't a reliable source. Their full of assumptions and debates. Attacking Rodgers is attacking the packers. Defense wins championships. Now what does defense have to do with Rodgers?

2 points
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Chevy572rat's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:16 pm

Bleacher Report ?? Really ?? Not who I look to for ANY THING !!! A JOKE !!!!!

3 points
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Oppy's picture

January 09, 2020 at 07:29 pm

“Attacking Rodgers is attacking the packers”

Never has a statement been so wrong.

0 points
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Houndog's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:25 am

Maybe Rodgers should get Danica out running routes on his days off.
If he can get back to the point where he can hit a target that small, he should have less trouble getting the ball to NFL receivers.

3 points
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Packer_Fan's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:50 am

Time to knock off this chip on his shoulder. I don't need a monster game, just that he plays well and leads the Pack to the Super bowl

4 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

January 09, 2020 at 01:33 pm

Rodgers has no justification to have a chip on his shoulder anymore. The 'chip' and 'trust' things are what aging QB's say to fans who still believe he is the early version of himself still.

Manning and Elway are used as examples of adapting and accepting a different way to play and success came quick for both in doing so. Rodgers has not adapted in any total dedicated manner and it is apparent if one removes the glasses. The longer Rodgers takes to assimilate to a newer him the more likely the SB win fades away for GB.

This opportunity this season however 'ugly' it has been is the last chance we'll see with a larger part of the old Rodgers playing on the field. The future chances of an SB will not require sun glasses if Rodgers fails to accept what he must do, accept what he isn't anymore completely.

0 points
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2
Razer's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:55 am

I don't doubt that Rodgers can do it. His diminished form and bad throwing habits aside, there are few better at hitting the target when needed. My apprehension going into these playoffs is the lack of complete game consistency. To eke out wins against average opponents with a couple of quarters of efficient play doesn't instill much confidence. At this stage in his career, Rodgers needs to demonstrate a command of this offense and willingness to employ all means of controlling the clock.

A complete game this Sunday would put the remaining teams on notice that the best quarterback in the league is alive and well.

6 points
8
2
Cubbygold's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:14 pm

I hope that the magnitude of each play resonates with him more in the playoffs, and that leads him to converting more frequently. Maybe in the regular season there were too many deep throws on 3rd and 2, where in the playoffs he'll feel more compelled to just move the chains.

Probably not, but would be nice to see.

2 points
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Tundraboy's picture

January 09, 2020 at 09:20 pm

Yes.

And especially this.

"Rodgers needs to demonstrate a command of this offense and willingness to employ all means of controlling the clock."

3 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:56 am

The article makes some good points but, but with blinders on.

It reads like the only path to the SB is via the passing game and the QB not making any mistakes. How about the coaching, game plan, play calling, run game, defense, STs?

Would the Packers have won the ‘97 SB with Favre in his prime without Desmond Howard and the STs...Reggie and Schumer’s #1 D? No, I do not think so.

The Packers has finally developed a very potent run game and it seems Rodgers IS doing his job and listening to his coaches. The D is not nearly as good as the ‘96 bunch....but they are better than they have been in 8 years. And the STs are showing life at the right time.

So if the Packers get back to a SB with hearty contributions from the D and STs, is the next article “why didn’t #12 carry the team more”?

8 points
10
2
Chevy572rat's picture

January 09, 2020 at 05:00 pm

The agenda this season for alot of sports shows and alot of so called EXPERTS has been to make Aaron Rodgers the reason for what's NOT gone right and for giving him NO CREDIT for what did work. Could he have played better this year, absolutely, along with every other QB and every other player and coach on the Packers team. Saying a Super Bowl depends on AR, and AR alone from Bleach Report, is a crock of crap !!!!!!

4 points
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4zone's picture

January 10, 2020 at 08:22 am

This is a more balanced team, finally, yet AR still has to be more effective with the opportunities he has. His game right now is substandard for him and he needs to find his 'groove' again. Maybe its because he's not passing as much as normal, who knows.

0 points
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Doug_In_Sandpoint's picture

January 09, 2020 at 12:01 pm

I think I’d make it known that if he doesn’t up his game, we’re trading him to Dallas.

10 points
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JesseL's picture

January 09, 2020 at 08:48 pm

This might be my favorite comment ever.

1 points
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oceanstrength's picture

January 09, 2020 at 12:04 pm

Really outstanding analysis!!!!

-3 points
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Bearmeat's picture

January 09, 2020 at 12:37 pm

0 points
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mnbadger's picture

January 09, 2020 at 12:58 pm

One reason ar is paid so much is he carries the pressure for every player and position group. All outcomes are viewed through the lens of how well he played. That takes the pressure of the younger guys so they can focus on the task at hand. That's invaluable.

0 points
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4
Lphill's picture

January 09, 2020 at 01:44 pm

One game at a time , yes this is the big stage now for Rodgers , he has to do his part , just like the defense and special teams, this is also a revenge game for all the heartbreak the Seahawks have caused.

2 points
3
1
TXCHEESE's picture

January 09, 2020 at 01:49 pm

Time for the entire team to put up or shut up. This is one of the healthiest, if not the healthiest teams to enter these playoffs. They either do or don't, but no excuses. If the Packers just play within themselves and not turn the ball over, they will win.

9 points
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Cheesey51's picture

January 10, 2020 at 07:08 am

Carry The G

0 points
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Minniman's picture

January 09, 2020 at 02:27 pm

I couldn't find any supporting salary numbers for the Elway Broncos of the 90's but the 20-teens Manning Broncos were an outstanding defense with an Offense only missing a QB - and the 7 starting QB's the preceded Peyton were first contract draftees (i.e. cheap)....... the point being that the team was only missing 1 piece, the QB.

There was an interesting piece written at the time of Rodgers' new 2018 deal which basically said that the yearly number is above the % threshold for any one player on the 53 man roster of a Superbowl contending team.

I personally think that it's too early to jump on the Rodgers-bashing bandwagon (he's too good a player) but the financials are going to be his biggest enemy over the coming years - this coming year's draft and FA will be critical to the back half of Rodgers' current tenure at GB, I wonder if a restructure might be on the cards (like Manning did in his final 2 years)?

0 points
1
1
Cubbygold's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:22 pm

Here you go...

https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/02/nfl-quarterback-salaries-salary-cap-kir...

And yes, next year looks good but the following two years would crush the team as it currently stands. BAL and KC would both be favored over any NFC team in the super bowl, having rookie QB deals is a major factor.

Peyton is an example of a team managing their cap in a way that is 'going all in' on a few remaining years on a player, pushing salaries out while hitting on rookie draft picks. Gute will need to decide if thats the gameplan for GB, right now I think it will be. For example, you could see both smiths sign extensions next year, deferring cap hits into 2023 and 2024.

1 points
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Minniman's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:41 pm

Thanks for that Cubbygold - and I agree, the Broncos went all-in on Manning knowing that a veteran QB was their only missing piece.

Having made my point above I still don't think that the Packers should rush to move forward from Rodgers without a succession plan - I'd at least see what a second MLF led season looked like before considering options like that.

2 points
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Cubbygold's picture

January 09, 2020 at 05:09 pm

No problem.

It'll be interesting to see which route they choose. I agree that this is not a team that should be starting fresh. They've got a young core that can support Rodgers, and if he really wants to win he can pull a Brady and make adjustments to his pay.

I'm a big proponent of teams 'going for it' and would gladly take sub .500 years in 2024-2026 to restock the roster after Rodgers is gone. I wonder if Packers leadership has the same mindset though, always tough on financials to go through a winning drought.

2 points
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Leatherhead's picture

January 09, 2020 at 02:34 pm

Statistically, Rodgers is one of the all time great QBs in league history. He’s still playing very well. If given protection, he’ll almost certainly protect the ball and run the offense.

I think it always comes down to leadership, and we’re about to see him lead this team to a win. Or not. We are going to find out.

2 points
4
2
Montana's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:23 pm

I think this article is fair overall and I agree with the analogy on Rogers as being somewhere between "cape and critic."

I agree with Stockholder too that defense wins championships..... and we haven't had a top ten defense since winning the show in 2010.

Someone else made a case that every player must do their job to be successful and win the SB....I would add that this goes for the front office top to bottom as well.

The Packers are a far different team this year under MLF; new schemes, new philosophy, new positive culture which all I think has contributed to winning differently. Rogers QBR is 14th in the league this year and his timing and completion percentage are far less that in the past. Some of this is timing, different receiving core from his record years, but we run way more too...I'm ok with that.

I think Rogers though would say honestly that his QBR should be better and that's on him even with an average receiving core. I have been waiting for Rogers to have a complete game all year, and by his own admission, he said the same in an interview not more than three weeks ago. Rogers still has it in him and I believe he'll rise to that former magic this weekend.....

5 points
5
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Since'61's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:29 pm

Another Bleacher Report article that proves they are nothing more than a click bait manufacturer. Why does anyone who knows or cares anything abut sports waste their time reading their articles and more importantly how can anyone over 8 years old take them seriously???
They are perfect for the fans who have no idea what they are watching, e.g., 8 year olds.

Stating that it is up to Rodgers to take this team to the SB is to say that you have not watched a single Packers game this season. Regardless of how well or how poorly Rodgers has played this season the Packers have won games primarily because of their defense and because of Aaron Jones. Just look at the last 2 games of the season. Rodgers played very well against the Vikings but the Packers still won because their defense was dominant in that game. Then Rodgers played poorly against the Lions, especially in the first half, but the Packers still won because their defense held the Lions to only 3 points in the second half enabling the Packers offense to come back and win the game.

There is no doubt that Rodgers ball security and playing smart helps to win games and will help to win playoff games. But unless something significant changes the Packers need to get the ball to Aaron Jones on offense and they need their defense to continue playing as it has all season if they are going to even get to the SB, never mind win it. Will Rodgers playing well help? Absolutely! Can Rodgers have a big game? Absolutely again! But the difference will be the defense holding opponents to 20 points or less. Why? Because no matter how well Rodgers plays I'm not very confident that this offense can score more than 24-28 points against playoff level defense. They may do it against Seattle at home. Yes, they could reach the low 30s although the weather is likely to preclude that from happening. Next round against either the SF or Minn defenses, probably not, especially on the road against SF. If we make it to the SB against either the Ravens (most likely) or the Chiefs, probably not.

Whether Bleacher Report is aware or not (and they are not aware as this mindless article proves) the defense is the key to the 2019 Packers winning the SB. Rodgers is still a factor and a considerable one, but to write that Rodgers must take this team to the SB is just not to understand what the 2019 Packers are all about and it has not been about Aaron Rodgers since the 8-0 run in 2016. I'm still fine if the ball is in Rodgers' hands on the last possession of the game and we need an FG or a TD to win, but I also realize that if we are in that position it will be because our defense has kept the score close throughout the game. Time to chuck Bleacher Report. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
4
3
jannes bjornson's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:21 pm

I thought BR was the name of a tailgate party group. Five sheets to the wind at gametime...

1 points
1
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GilbertBurger's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:40 pm

Please oh please - just get the GD ball out of your hand fast Aaron and let the rest take care of itself.

7 points
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Swisch's picture

January 09, 2020 at 03:56 pm

I've been tough on Rodgers this season, but as one really rooting for him.
In his defense, it's difficult to adapt. However, he has to make a sincere effort against the Seahawks to get the running game going, and to take the short passes.
To go with a star running back in Jones as both a runner and receiver, Rodgers has a superstar in Davante; in addition, Williams and Lazard and Lewis have shown themselves as true football players determined and dependable.
Right there, in those five guys, is enough in the running game and passing game to beat the Seahawks -- if they are utilized well.
Plus, I'm hopeful another guy or two on offense may step up. Try MVS on a deep crossing route or jet sweep; or Tonyan over the middle; or someone else somewhere else.
In general for any playoff game, don't celebrate too much in the good times and try to add to the lead; don't panic in the bad times and try to minimize the damage.
It's up to Rodgers as team leader to set the tone of playing hard and smart and calm all the way to the end. It's up to him to set an example of selfless teamwork by working the short game (although I'd let him have a little leeway for his personal preferences every so often).
I excited about seeing what Rodgers does this Sunday; I'm nervous about him; but I'm also rooting for him as a player and a person.
I think it's important for Aaron Rodgers to know that there's most probably a huge majority of Packers fans who really care about Aaron Rodgers. He's one of our guys for all time.
We don't expect him to be perfect; we're just hoping he buys into the game plan for the good of the team, including himself.

7 points
7
0
Packers0808's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:20 pm

Keep old cement shoes Graham on the bench on 97% of the plays!

3 points
4
1
Swisch's picture

January 09, 2020 at 07:38 pm

Not giving up on Graham and Allison completely, but would feature Lewis and Tonyan ahead of Graham, and feature Lazard, Kumerow, and MVS ahead of Allison. Also thinking about Ervin and Vitale as potential contributors, and open to others the coaching staff may have a hunch about.

0 points
0
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fastmoving's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:45 pm

he has more help than any other QB in the NFL, just sayin...…
From the D and even more from his O-line, RB and his often open receivers. for what more can you ask????
I think his only checkdown is DA and if he is covered…...just take the sack

-4 points
1
5
flackcatcher's picture

January 09, 2020 at 06:19 pm

I have been equally hard on him since 2018 for not following the game plan (one he help put together) and free lancing way to often. What is maddening is when he is discipline and plays within the scheme (McCarthy or now MLF) he is lethal to opposing defenses on the field even at his advanced football age. We all know how this goes to win. Play inside the offensive scheme, don't play hero ball, and give A. Jones and Williams the ball. (Run the ball. Run to daylight. Run to victory...) Let the Packer offensive line work and it will all open up for him. Above all, give this stout defense a chance to tilt the field in the Packers favor. It's all there for the taking if, IF, Rodgers gives his team the chance to do so...

2 points
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Swisch's picture

January 09, 2020 at 07:04 pm

Rodgers did a good job in the second game against the Vikings of sticking with the game plan of working the short game, even with a slow start. Behind our QB, the Packers didn't panic, and we finished strong with a big win.
So watch that tape, and the games against the Cowboys and Chiefs.
You're right, flackcatcher, we've seen it work. It can be beautiful, and oh so satisfying, and highly effective.

2 points
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Tundraboy's picture

January 09, 2020 at 09:29 pm

A thousand likes! Well said.

1 points
1
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:12 pm

If they stack the box, i would assume AR checks to a passing play in lieu of a run into a cement wall a' la MucCarthy
during the second half of the sea-needle debacle. Rodgers was the good soldier in that game and followed the plan.
Where did that go. Of course, the first read is to Adams. THe second may go to A.Jones or the dump toGraham because the guy has sure hands vs. Tonyan's drops. MVS is a guy you cannot count on as well as Gmo. 50/50 guys can't be your Game Plan in the Playoffs. Kumerow should have a good game. He had the flu @ Detroit.
Ervin can run the LBs sideways and the counter with Williams should keep Seattle's D line off guard. Will LaFleur spring Sternberger free on a seam route, or will he keep away from rookies? Get the water hot.

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Packers0808's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:19 pm

Just exactly what I wrote about in a post earlier before this one came out! Hope Rodgers can play up to his contract and expectations of people in order for good sold wins!

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fastmoving's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:40 pm

This is a really good, fair take from BR. Maybe with a little bit too much goodwill for AR.

I like Naglers stuff a lot and that he looks at things from all sides. He is a smart, true Packers fan, but not a homer.

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ShooterMcGee's picture

January 09, 2020 at 04:53 pm

Hopefully while watching the Seahawks game we don't start wishing we had Russell Wilson instead.

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Leatherhead's picture

January 09, 2020 at 07:31 pm

I think our defense is going to play well. We’ve been pretty good at home on defense, although Wilson is probably the best we’ve faced.

Use a 5 man rush and keep him in the pocket.

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Swisch's picture

January 09, 2020 at 07:48 pm

With maybe, at times, a delayed blitzer or a spy.
I'm still not able to see the merits of a 3-man rush; other than that, let's mix things up on defense.
I'd like for Wilson not to know if we're going to play his receivers tight or loose on any given play.
Also, I'm reluctantly willing to risk giving up a deep ball at times. It's not the end of the world.
Play hard, play smart. play to the end; don't be too afraid of making mistakes; and be unpredictable.

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jannes bjornson's picture

January 09, 2020 at 11:19 pm

Philly took him down with the delayed safety blitz from Jenkins twice. Read him, get pressure from the middle and attack him fast if he stays home. Otherwise he will pick you apart with his accuaracy. He is having the MVP season.

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EddieLeeIvory's picture

January 09, 2020 at 06:45 pm

here's a trend I don't like.
for about 85 years, this franchise never lost a single home playoff game.
now we've lost to Vick, Culpepper, Eli, Eli & Kaepernick. 5 times, at home with this supposed cold-weather home field advantage.

Also, in the 00-01's, we have lost playoff games to Atlanta. 2 times.
to Arizona. 2 times.
to the NY Giants. 2 times.
to San Francisco. 2 times.
We already lost 1 time to Seattle and 1 time to Minny. Too many playoff losses....we were favored in most of them too.

1 points
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Oppy's picture

January 10, 2020 at 12:14 pm

It’s totally logical to expect that every time the packers get in the playoffs they should get to the super bowl.

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Oppy's picture

January 10, 2020 at 12:14 pm

It’s totally logical to expect that every time the packers get in the playoffs they should get to the super bowl.

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Oppy's picture

January 10, 2020 at 12:14 pm

It’s totally logical to expect that every time the packers get in the playoffs they should get to the super bowl.

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GLM's picture

January 09, 2020 at 07:57 pm

It all boils down to this....just win at home...after that, all bets are off. If we lose another home playoff game, I will be very disappointed. That being said, this team has already exceeded pre-season expectations.

1 points
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JesseL's picture

January 09, 2020 at 09:15 pm

This reads a little too much like an unnecessary ultimatum. While I agree with the general idea that Rodgers needs to play better, it's such a dramatically shallow "solution" to the "problem". Is his play a key factor? Yes, one of the most important ones. But it's a far cry from a "we need this or we'll have to do that" scenario.

Let's be honest, the fact that we are here, hosting a divisional playoff game with a new coach after going 13-3, is already way beyond what all but a select few ever anticipated. We have a lot that we can do in the offseason to come out firing for the next two years at least. I feel we'll be in the mix for the next two seasons if they play right, stay healthy and continue to grow familiar with their scheme and personnel.

I think we CAN and should beat Seattle and after that, there's always the chance for a run with momentum. It's a gut feeling, but also very achievable. In order to do that, every part of this team will need to come together. That includes Rodgers. I would love to see them take advantage of the situation we're in right now because I truly don't think they expected to be here in year one.

Yes, we need to draft a QB either way. No, we don't need to move on from Rodgers if he doesn't win this football game.

7 points
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Minniman's picture

January 10, 2020 at 12:22 am

"Yes, we need to draft a QB either way. No, we don't need to move on from Rodgers if he doesn't win this football game."

Bravo - well said!

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Rossonero's picture

January 10, 2020 at 07:01 am

While it's fair to say Rodgers should be playing better given the boatload of cash the Packers gave him, it's even more important that Rodgers adapt to his aging body.

He can still be a pocket passer and carve teams to shreds. Remember the 2nd half vs. the Bears in the 2018 opener?

What I worry about the most is will Pete Carroll outcoach Matt LaFleur in this game? Will LaFleur and Rodgers force more bombs even when it's not working?

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Genes1950's picture

January 10, 2020 at 07:21 am

Agree completely, but I think it's more. It's this year or done for #12. He's 2 games from a Superbowl. A poor performance by Aaron, IMO, mark's the end. The criticism would be loud, universal and devastating to any remaining confidence. On the other hand, any flashes of past winning greatness would bring the house down. It's there for the taking....Go-Pack-Go! Go-12-Go!

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Cartwright's picture

January 10, 2020 at 09:54 am

Got the feeling that over the bye week during practice Rodgers was heaving bombs downfield to his receivers just to get the timing down. One or two of those being hauled during the game should shut his critics up.

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AndrewInAtlanta's picture

January 10, 2020 at 04:14 pm

THIS

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Difer's picture

January 11, 2020 at 10:26 am

Since Rodgers shattered his right clavicle against the Vikings, he has lost a lot of his consistancy, most notably on short and intermediate throws to open receivers. The only chance the Packers have of beating the Seahawks is if Rodgers manages the offense according to MLF's game plan, and avoids turnovers and delay penalties.

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Philarod's picture

January 13, 2020 at 02:50 pm

I just saw this piece (piece of crap really), and realize that I'm writing with hindsight after the first playoff game...and win.

That said, my reaction is still the same as it would have been. What is with all the roasting of Rodgers on this site - a site that I'm fairly new to?! I realize that no player is beyond being criticized, and that quarterbacks are additionally scrutinized, but this is ludicrous.

I'll "say" what I've said many times before. For years, Rodgers (as close to singlehandedly as is possible in the NFL) has elevated at best, mediocre to average all-around teams to contender status for years. Think about it. Who else is more automatic on throws that have to be on-target, has the highest career passer rating despite playing in the elements - and with mostly pedestrian pieces (bad TEs, average RBs, okay receivers and predictable coaches. He has played well in nearly all playoff games, and has authored some of the most exciting plays ever...often while afterward watching STs or the D blow it later. He plays through injuries and pain that would sideline most, often carrying teams to heights unimaginable with any other QB in the NFL.

Hero ball?! What, is he Russell Westbrook refusing to pass to KD a few years back? Is "hero ball" the Hail Mary versus Detroit, where he actually scrambled left, into pressure, then scrambled right to give his plodding TE enough time to get under his one-in-a-million throw? Was it the two sensational..perhaps, even better, Hail Mary throws versus Arizona to the great Jeff Janis? Was it all the times that he had to escape pressure, and buy time, and then still have to fit the ball into ridiculously tiny windows to receivers that barely could get open - even with an extra 3-5 seconds?! Wasn't it "hero ball" when he came back on one leg to beat the Bears last year or the Lions in a must-win? Or was it "hero ball" when he threw that frozen rope while scrambling left and somehow, absurdly, got it into the hands of Jared Cook (terrific catch as well) to win the playoff game in Dallas?

What is it with so many GB fans, and with this writer? Yes, Rodgers can be stubborn and perceived as arrogant - most great athletes and coaches are. And sometimes, maybe he does try to extend plays, and it doesn't always work. (Although, I would think if you gave him almost any other supporting offensive cast of this year's playoff teams and beyond, he would not have to improvise as much.)

So after all this, including playing the position at the highest level many of us have ever seen, followed by a two-year hiatus from the playoffs (in large part due to his own injuries and not being able to elevate 6-10 talent into the playoffs...the nerve, he only did so 9 out of 11 seasons), he's being ripped for...what, exactly?! Having the nerve to only take this team to a 13-3 record - despite having (I suppose) a prime Walter Payton in the backfield, prime Gronk at TE, and (of course, prime) Rice, Moss and Fitzgerald at WR? With Lombardi coaching and the Bears' 1985 D.

What is wrong with so many pundits and fans here?!

1 points
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