*Semi-official Green Bay Packers Super Bowl Champs thread (1 Viewer)

[sho nuff]

Ok...we had the off-season thread..but I could not find a real one for in the season.

I will do my best to keep this to nothing but football talk and not respond to anything personal about me as to make this a worthwhile thread.

Packers sitting at 5-4 (and man that Tampa loss really stings right now) after the big win against Dallas.

2 questions I have for Packer fans after yesterday's game...

1. After yesterday and if we see this same style of defense the rest of the year...if McCarthy does get the boot, and he should...do we keep Capers and the 3-4? Defense has been good against the run all year, and if they play aggressive and get the pass rush, it can be good against the pass too.

2. After seeing the D yesterday...and if they stick to the 3-4...what to do with Kampman? Jones looked better in coverage...and with Matthews being the blitzing OLB more now, is there room for Kampman on this team if they stay a 3-4. Or do we find a way to go to a 4-3...keep Kampman and play Matthews, Hawk, Barnett at LB?

If getting rid of Kampman is the option...I hope they can talk to him...sign him now or tag him and tell him we will let you go nearly anywhere you want, just not to Minnesota.

 

[Go Pack]

The Packers will probably win just enough games that McCarthy gets to stay, but I have definitely had enough of him. I was also wondering if they would retain Capers and the 3-4 in the event of a head coaching change. I am still not convinced that they would not be better off in a 4-3 Jenkins/Kampman at DE Pickett/Raji at DT and then Matthews/Barnett/Hawk or Chillar at LB. The only real personnel move they made that was 3-4 focused was Matthews, but I would think that he could play in a 4-3.

If they stick with the 3-4 they may as well tag and trade Kampman to a 4-3 team for a decent pick. With that pick and all their early picks they had better address the OL early and often. Some secondary help and a RB would also be good additions. The front 7 on defense and QB/WR/TE look to be in good shape for the near future.

 

[sho nuff]

The Packers will probably win just enough games that McCarthy gets to stay, but I have definitely had enough of him. I was also wondering if they would retain Capers and the 3-4 in the event of a head coaching change. I am still not convinced that they would not be better off in a 4-3 Jenkins/Kampman at DE Pickett/Raji at DT and then Matthews/Barnett/Hawk or Chillar at LB. The only real personnel move they made that was 3-4 focused was Matthews, but I would think that he could play in a 4-3.If they stick with the 3-4 they may as well tag and trade Kampman to a 4-3 team for a decent pick. With that pick and all their early picks they had better address the OL early and often. Some secondary help and a RB would also be good additions. The front 7 on defense and QB/WR/TE look to be in good shape for the near future.

I agree on addressing the OL in their picks...though...I keep getting wowed by CJ Spiller and dreaming of what he could do as a complimentary back to Grant.Also...hindsight is always 20/20...but how good would it look to have Oher right now...and then hope that one of the big DTs falls to them in the draft this year? (Suh, Cody, and last year I would have said McCoy out of Oklahoma but I have not heard/seen anything about him this year) Especially the way Pickett and Jenkins have played this year.

 

[VTjkru]

Ok...we had the off-season thread..but I could not find a real one for in the season.I will do my best to keep this to nothing but football talk and not respond to anything personal about me as to make this a worthwhile thread.Packers sitting at 5-4 (and man that Tampa loss really stings right now) after the big win against Dallas. 2 questions I have for Packer fans after yesterday's game...1. After yesterday and if we see this same style of defense the rest of the year...if McCarthy does get the boot, and he should...do we keep Capers and the 3-4? Defense has been good against the run all year, and if they play aggressive and get the pass rush, it can be good against the pass too.2. After seeing the D yesterday...and if they stick to the 3-4...what to do with Kampman? Jones looked better in coverage...and with Matthews being the blitzing OLB more now, is there room for Kampman on this team if they stay a 3-4. Or do we find a way to go to a 4-3...keep Kampman and play Matthews, Hawk, Barnett at LB?If getting rid of Kampman is the option...I hope they can talk to him...sign him now or tag him and tell him we will let you go nearly anywhere you want, just not to Minnesota.

1. Yes keep Capers and the 3-4. He's proven and the defense has been playing well. If anyone thought there wouldnt be lapses in execution or that it would be a seamless transition was kidding themselves. If the team can play this well on defense without having all the pieces there and only a couple of months in, just imagine how it will be after a year or two.2. If Kampman continues to trend the way he has, then tag him and then ship him off.

 

[CentralPA]

Dear Packer fans,

Thanks for the Cowboy beat down.

Sincerely,

Frustrated Eagles fan

 

[CletiusMaximus]

1. After yesterday and if we see this same style of defense the rest of the year...if McCarthy does get the boot, and he should...do we keep Capers and the 3-4? Defense has been good against the run all year, and if they play aggressive and get the pass rush, it can be good against the pass too.2. After seeing the D yesterday...and if they stick to the 3-4...what to do with Kampman? Jones looked better in coverage...and with Matthews being the blitzing OLB more now, is there room for Kampman on this team if they stay a 3-4. Or do we find a way to go to a 4-3...keep Kampman and play Matthews, Hawk, Barnett at LB?If getting rid of Kampman is the option...I hope they can talk to him...sign him now or tag him and tell him we will let you go nearly anywhere you want, just not to Minnesota.

I think the defense will be fine and would not want to switch back to a 4-3 after one season. We all knew it would take at least a half season for them to get into it and they probably won't fully get it until next year (that is Bedard's opinion from covering the Dolphins during their transition a few years ago - he says it took Jayson Taylor a full year before he got it, which was when he won the defensive MVP award). The ice under McCarthy's feet is still pretty strong in my opinion, but there are cracks.As for the cap and trade - how does that work? Wouldn't that mean any team wanting to trade for him would have to either re-negotiate a contract or pay him a top 5 OLB salary? And he would always have the option of simply staying with the Packers and having that huge salary. Personally, I think Kampman still has a good chance to be a success with this defense and I hope he gets an extension this season.

 

[harryhood]

Is this where I can come and rant about McCarthy not utilizing Grant more in this offense? You guys just said Bon Voyage to one QB who tried to do it all himself, haha.

But seriously, I have kept up with the Packers a lot this year(mainly due in part to marrying into a family where one of my BIL's used to work for The Pack), and I cant see much of a reason why they don't involve him more. He is definitely not a breakaway back and you have a very good QB on the rise so I can kind of understand it, but can any homer tell me why he gets 1 chance AT BEST, to punch it in on a "goal-to-go" series before they abandon it for 2 straight pass plays inside the 3 yard line?

Kuhn, Rodgers sneak/bootleg, 4 wide slants. They try it all and rarely give this guy more than one opportunity in a row.

He ran hard yesterday against a defense that has been playing very well of late. My selfish needs aside, I think if you fed him 8 more times in a game you could.

1)keep your defense off the field

2)keep your franchise QB upright

3)control the clock and set up those pretty PA passes to Jennings we saw a lot of last year.

 

[sho nuff]

1. After yesterday and if we see this same style of defense the rest of the year...if McCarthy does get the boot, and he should...do we keep Capers and the 3-4? Defense has been good against the run all year, and if they play aggressive and get the pass rush, it can be good against the pass too.2. After seeing the D yesterday...and if they stick to the 3-4...what to do with Kampman? Jones looked better in coverage...and with Matthews being the blitzing OLB more now, is there room for Kampman on this team if they stay a 3-4. Or do we find a way to go to a 4-3...keep Kampman and play Matthews, Hawk, Barnett at LB?If getting rid of Kampman is the option...I hope they can talk to him...sign him now or tag him and tell him we will let you go nearly anywhere you want, just not to Minnesota.

I think the defense will be fine and would not want to switch back to a 4-3 after one season. We all knew it would take at least a half season for them to get into it and they probably won't fully get it until next year (that is Bedard's opinion from covering the Dolphins during their transition a few years ago - he says it took Jayson Taylor a full year before he got it, which was when he won the defensive MVP award). The ice under McCarthy's feet is still pretty strong in my opinion, but there are cracks.As for the cap and trade - how does that work? Wouldn't that mean any team wanting to trade for him would have to either re-negotiate a contract or pay him a top 5 OLB salary? And he would always have the option of simply staying with the Packers and having that huge salary. Personally, I think Kampman still has a good chance to be a success with this defense and I hope he gets an extension this season.

I hope the ice under McCarthy's feet is not too thick.This is why I ask about the 3-4...do we keep a DC and hamstring a new head coach (if McCarthy is fired) by already having the DC in place. I generally don't like doing this...but would love to see Capers stay if he keeps up like he did last night. I also don't want to see Capers as head coach.On the cap and trade...I really am not sure exactly how it would work...but have heard it discussed very briefly in the past as a possiblity for players.

 

[sho nuff]

Is this where I can come and rant about McCarthy not utilizing Grant more in this offense? You guys just said Bon Voyage to one QB who tried to do it all himself, haha.But seriously, I have kept up with the Packers a lot this year(mainly due in part to marrying into a family where one of my BIL's used to work for The Pack), and I cant see much of a reason why they don't involve him more. He is definitely not a breakaway back and you have a very good QB on the rise so I can kind of understand it, but can any homer tell me why he gets 1 chance AT BEST, to punch it in on a "goal-to-go" series before they abandon it for 2 straight pass plays inside the 3 yard line?Kuhn, Rodgers sneak/bootleg, 4 wide slants. They try it all and rarely give this guy more than one opportunity in a row. He ran hard yesterday against a defense that has been playing very well of late. My selfish needs aside, I think if you fed him 8 more times in a game you could.1)keep your defense off the field2)keep your franchise QB upright3)control the clock and set up those pretty PA passes to Jennings we saw a lot of last year.

One of the many reasons many Packer fans have soured on McCarthy.He talks like he wants to be a smashmouth coach...but never shows it.

 

[sho nuff]

Interesting comments from McCarthy.

# On Nelson challenge, it was a time clock issue. It was close. They started the 40-second clock. Didn't feel he would be able to get the playcall. Tough to tell the spot. McCarthy said it makes a difference. Needed to take a timeout. "In hindsight, you probably don't want to do that."

# On third challenge: "I made a mistake." Was supposed to get a 15-yard penalty.

I guess if you feel you are going to use a TO...the red flag is not bad...but he lost a challenge and should have cost him that penalty later.

Also noted in there that Jennings had a "knee contusion" but would likely only miss practice time.

 

[Literary Reference]

re: Grant

They don't choose good times to run.

Pass on first down... as noted during the game, Rodgers's rating is worst on 1st down and he's taken the most (or at least many) sacks. On 1st down? That's terrible.

So now if Rodgers wasn't sacked and they have the luxury of being in only 2nd and 10, Grant gets to run for 3 or 5 yards (if it's more than this I'm looking for penalty flags)

Then it's 3rd and 5 or more, another pass. If they convert they'll probably pass on first down again.

There have been many times I wanted to see Grant get more runs. When he does, it often seems to be at times when it's not the best option for down and distance.

 

[Kitrick Taylor]

I think McCarthy remains on thin ice. Yesterday was the first real changes in game plan to accommodate an inept offensive line, and a sorry pass rush. I am not going to pretend I know more about coaching and football than McCarthy and Capers, but its been so blatantly obvious something had to change, and it didn't for weeks. Same kind of thing happened in 2008. I am not sure what record the Packers will need for McCarthy to keep his job, but I am certain that he needs to keep this team from reverting back to the same form that cost them 4 games this year.

As for Capers, I am impressed by our improved run defense. I am not so convinced he's such a great coach that if a new coach (Cowher, Gruden etc) wanted to bring in his own guy I would oppose it. My preference would be to stay with the 3/4.

Kampmann will be franchised at the end of the season. That means the Packers are guaranteeing him the average of the top 5 OLBs. They will trade him to a 4/3 team in need of a DE though. I'd expect a 2nd rounder in return.

 

[Man in the yellow hat]

Bump.

Everything changed for that defense yesterday. The D is really starting to gel, and now they lose two key players.

Al Harris and Aaron Kampan are likely both done for the year with torn ACLs.

http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/70766802.html

Any time Jarret Bush sees the field, bad things happen. It happened Sunday, it'll happen again.

This also puts the rookie Brandon Underwood into the lineup more regularly. He's shown some potential.

Brad Jones has played well the last few weeks filling in for Kampan. He's a natural 3-4 olb, and I believe he will do well.

 

[sho nuff]

Capers had a quote where they might not play dime as often (wondering if its to limit how much Underwood and Bush are both out there at the same time).

Id like to see Underwood get put in there instead of Bush at times.

Thing I took away from yesterday....Grant and the Oline stepped up and played much better. Grant ran harder and seemed to hit the holes quicker than last year and much of this year. Was nice to see.

On one of his long runs we saw the potential of Quinn Johnson at FB...went through the hole and the first wave was blocked well...he kept going and laid a nice block on Patrick Willis to help spring Grant for the big gain.

Losing Harris hurts big time though...Kampman...while it hurts, he was a liability in coverage.

The secondary cannot afford any other injuries right now.

 

[Literary Reference]

Brad Jones has played okay. Obviously you don't want rookies and inexperienced guys having to play this defense (if we are still using Pitt. as the benchmark) but at least he looks competent.

After all the chatter about how much Kampman sucks in the 3-4, over six weeks of games his absence will be felt.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Its obviously painful to lose two all-pro defenders. This is where the depth of a roster is really tested. Kampman is a great player and I was looking forward to seeing him grow into his role in the 3-4. It will be very interesting to see what happens with him next summer. Luckily, OLB is a very deep position on this team and one could imagine Chillar moving outside, or using Poppinga or Jones. Harris is a much greater concern given the extensive use of nickel and dime packages and the players who are implicated by this injury. Hindsight can be brutal, but this really puts a spotlight on the decision to IR Pat Lee in favor of someone like Giacomini. Lee would have missed the first 5-6 weeks or so, but is reportedly now healthy. Its hard to understand how Breno made the 53, again with the benefit of hindsight.

 

[hauser42]

I did not think Kampy would be back next year but now the Pack might not want to franchise him for a possible trade. They need to make sure they can make a move and not get stuck with him. He just doesnt fit well into the scheme. Brad Jones should be given first shot at replacing him.

Harris is a loss for this year, but he has been showing his age more and more. Harris can be replaced by Williams and I think he will do fine and maybe better than Harris in this scheme. Real issue is the nickel back which, I say give Underwood first shot. Bush has never shown much, besides yellow flags on specail teams and giving up TDs.

TT will be looking for a Vet. CB in free agency to help out this year.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

So, does anyone know anything about this guy?

Tom Silverstein, of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, reports the Green Bay Packers have signed free-agent CB Josh Bell (Broncos). Bell signed a two-year deal, but financial terms were not disclosed. He will be at the team's practice Tuesday, Nov. 24, according to Bell's agent, Fred Lyles.

 

[sho nuff]

So, does anyone know anything about this guy?

Tom Silverstein, of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, reports the Green Bay Packers have signed free-agent CB Josh Bell (Broncos). Bell signed a two-year deal, but financial terms were not disclosed. He will be at the team's practice Tuesday, Nov. 24, according to Bell's agent, Fred Lyles.

Just the blurbs that he played a bit last year as a rookie when Champ got hurt in Denver.Got hurt himself in camp or preseason and was given an injury settlement and cut. Not a real big guy...but if he can learn quick and get Jarrett Bush off of the field...Im fine with that.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Brandon Chillar signed to 4 year contract extension

One of Ted Thompson's great free agent signings is extended to keep the #1 defense intact.

btw - anyone who has been to a game lately cannot help but notice that the young guys have really brought some nasty swagger to this defense - not seen since Wayne Simmons left. I'm talking about Jolly, Jenkins, Raji and Chillar. Jenkins and Raji were having a blast with the Bears yesterday, and one of the highlights of the Ravens game for me was seeing Jolly and Jenkins smack with Mason and Rice for about five minutes straight during one of the replay reviews. These guys do not back down. Chillar brings that same attitude - absolutely love this guy.

 

[sho nuff]

Brandon Chillar signed to 4 year contract extension

One of Ted Thompson's great free agent signings is extended to keep the #1 defense intact.

Love it too. Even as a backup he has a ton of value...especially with Hawk being in the last year of his contract. Though, Hawk has actually been playing pretty well lately and IMO if it keeps up like this, they have to keep him.Next up, have to sign Nick Collins. The guy has earned it. They have the options mentioned in several articles now to franchise him or without a new CBA he would only be a restricted free agent. But they have the money. Give the guy his $$$.

 

[sho nuff]

And Dom Capers has proven he was a great hire for this team.

All of the talk about how they did not have the personnel to run the 3-4 and how much they would struggle has sure quieted down.

Its still a work in progress and a favorable schedule has helped them to their lofty ranking...but it is a top 10 defense even if you factor in schedule IMO.

The thing I love seeing is how creative they get in packages and how aggressive they can be.

The 1-5-5 psycho was great against the Bears...the Big Okie against the Rams...

The crossing blitzes with Hawk and Barnett...and knowing when to dial up pressure (the big blitz by Tramon that led to the bad throw by Cutler which Collins picked off).

Last year, IMO, the Packers would have found a way to lose this Bears game. The D was no able to step up last year to make up for when the offense was sputtering. This year, the D has stepped up when the offense does not (most of the time). Its nice to see.

 

[Michael Fox Fan]

And Dom Capers has proven he was a great hire for this team.All of the talk about how they did not have the personnel to run the 3-4 and how much they would struggle has sure quieted down.Its still a work in progress and a favorable schedule has helped them to their lofty ranking...but it is a top 10 defense even if you factor in schedule IMO.The thing I love seeing is how creative they get in packages and how aggressive they can be.The 1-5-5 psycho was great against the Bears...the Big Okie against the Rams...The crossing blitzes with Hawk and Barnett...and knowing when to dial up pressure (the big blitz by Tramon that led to the bad throw by Cutler which Collins picked off).Last year, IMO, the Packers would have found a way to lose this Bears game. The D was no able to step up last year to make up for when the offense was sputtering. This year, the D has stepped up when the offense does not (most of the time). Its nice to see.

Dom Capers is an awesome defensive coordinator, one of the best in the league. Eventually he will leave to be a head coach again, even though it will be a horrible mistake. We are lucky to have him.

 

[sho nuff]

And Dom Capers has proven he was a great hire for this team.All of the talk about how they did not have the personnel to run the 3-4 and how much they would struggle has sure quieted down.Its still a work in progress and a favorable schedule has helped them to their lofty ranking...but it is a top 10 defense even if you factor in schedule IMO.The thing I love seeing is how creative they get in packages and how aggressive they can be.The 1-5-5 psycho was great against the Bears...the Big Okie against the Rams...The crossing blitzes with Hawk and Barnett...and knowing when to dial up pressure (the big blitz by Tramon that led to the bad throw by Cutler which Collins picked off).Last year, IMO, the Packers would have found a way to lose this Bears game. The D was no able to step up last year to make up for when the offense was sputtering. This year, the D has stepped up when the offense does not (most of the time). Its nice to see.

Dom Capers is an awesome defensive coordinator, one of the best in the league. Eventually he will leave to be a head coach again, even though it will be a horrible mistake. We are lucky to have him.

Agreed...seems like a guy who is best fit as a coordinator and not a HC. (like Ray Rhodes was as well...and Gregg Williams)

 

[Michael Fox Fan]

And Dom Capers has proven he was a great hire for this team.All of the talk about how they did not have the personnel to run the 3-4 and how much they would struggle has sure quieted down.Its still a work in progress and a favorable schedule has helped them to their lofty ranking...but it is a top 10 defense even if you factor in schedule IMO.The thing I love seeing is how creative they get in packages and how aggressive they can be.The 1-5-5 psycho was great against the Bears...the Big Okie against the Rams...The crossing blitzes with Hawk and Barnett...and knowing when to dial up pressure (the big blitz by Tramon that led to the bad throw by Cutler which Collins picked off).Last year, IMO, the Packers would have found a way to lose this Bears game. The D was no able to step up last year to make up for when the offense was sputtering. This year, the D has stepped up when the offense does not (most of the time). Its nice to see.

Dom Capers is an awesome defensive coordinator, one of the best in the league. Eventually he will leave to be a head coach again, even though it will be a horrible mistake. We are lucky to have him.

Agreed...seems like a guy who is best fit as a coordinator and not a HC. (like Ray Rhodes was as well...and Gregg Williams)

LOL, those are the first two names that popped into my head too!

 

[Mookie Blaylock]

So what's going to happen in Pittsburgh this weekend, fellas? Is Rogers going to go off? Are they going to stick with the run? Is the defense going to continue the stellar play?

 

[sho nuff]

And Dom Capers has proven he was a great hire for this team.All of the talk about how they did not have the personnel to run the 3-4 and how much they would struggle has sure quieted down.Its still a work in progress and a favorable schedule has helped them to their lofty ranking...but it is a top 10 defense even if you factor in schedule IMO.The thing I love seeing is how creative they get in packages and how aggressive they can be.The 1-5-5 psycho was great against the Bears...the Big Okie against the Rams...The crossing blitzes with Hawk and Barnett...and knowing when to dial up pressure (the big blitz by Tramon that led to the bad throw by Cutler which Collins picked off).Last year, IMO, the Packers would have found a way to lose this Bears game. The D was no able to step up last year to make up for when the offense was sputtering. This year, the D has stepped up when the offense does not (most of the time). Its nice to see.

Dom Capers is an awesome defensive coordinator, one of the best in the league. Eventually he will leave to be a head coach again, even though it will be a horrible mistake. We are lucky to have him.

Agreed...seems like a guy who is best fit as a coordinator and not a HC. (like Ray Rhodes was as well...and Gregg Williams)

LOL, those are the first two names that popped into my head too!

I thought of another similar one...though, he never got the chance to be a head coach. Jim Bates. So much talk that the Packers should have hired him instead of McCarthy back then. And since then, Bates had other opportunities to interview for HC spots I think. And yet, nobody has ever given him a chance (other than as an interim) to be a head coach. And I think he just got let go as DC again this year.Not ever coordinator simply has what it takes to be a HC.

 

[sho nuff]

So what's going to happen in Pittsburgh this weekend, fellas? Is Rogers going to go off? Are they going to stick with the run? Is the defense going to continue the stellar play?

On paper...with how each team is playing right now, the Packers should win this.But the Steelers are capable of being a very good team.I think GB keeps up the pressure D and if they can keep Big Ben from extending plays, they should win it IMn the other side...GB has to protect Rodgers...and he needs to see and feel the rush and get the ball out quick.Id like to see a similar plan to how they played against Baltimore.Run the ball enough to keep them honest...short passing game working...and take some shots when they can.Not sure who I read it from...but I agree with the point that in their red zone offense struggles...they almost need to just go to Finley as much as possible inside the 20. He presents so many matchup problems for teams when they put safeties and LBs on him that they have got to take advantage of that.

 

[Man in the yellow hat]

So what's going to happen in Pittsburgh this weekend, fellas? Is Rogers going to go off? Are they going to stick with the run? Is the defense going to continue the stellar play?

On paper...with how each team is playing right now, the Packers should win this.But the Steelers are capable of being a very good team.I think GB keeps up the pressure D and if they can keep Big Ben from extending plays, they should win it IMn the other side...GB has to protect Rodgers...and he needs to see and feel the rush and get the ball out quick.Id like to see a similar plan to how they played against Baltimore.Run the ball enough to keep them honest...short passing game working...and take some shots when they can.Not sure who I read it from...but I agree with the point that in their red zone offense struggles...they almost need to just go to Finley as much as possible inside the 20. He presents so many matchup problems for teams when they put safeties and LBs on him that they have got to take advantage of that.

The Steelers still scare me, especially at home. Green Bay has proven capable of shutting down the run game all season long, and it helps that Ward is still hurting a bit.But I just don't know about the Green Bay offense. They have not been on the same page all season long. It's hard to think this will be the week it all comes together. Add in a questionable kicking game, and this seems like a low scoring affair. Just my two cents.

 

[Mookie Blaylock]

So what's going to happen in Pittsburgh this weekend, fellas? Is Rogers going to go off? Are they going to stick with the run? Is the defense going to continue the stellar play?

On paper...with how each team is playing right now, the Packers should win this.But the Steelers are capable of being a very good team.I think GB keeps up the pressure D and if they can keep Big Ben from extending plays, they should win it IMn the other side...GB has to protect Rodgers...and he needs to see and feel the rush and get the ball out quick.Id like to see a similar plan to how they played against Baltimore.Run the ball enough to keep them honest...short passing game working...and take some shots when they can.Not sure who I read it from...but I agree with the point that in their red zone offense struggles...they almost need to just go to Finley as much as possible inside the 20. He presents so many matchup problems for teams when they put safeties and LBs on him that they have got to take advantage of that.

The Steelers still scare me, especially at home. Green Bay has proven capable of shutting down the run game all season long, and it helps that Ward is still hurting a bit.But I just don't know about the Green Bay offense. They have not been on the same page all season long. It's hard to think this will be the week it all comes together. Add in a questionable kicking game, and this seems like a low scoring affair. Just my two cents.

With the way the Pitt O-line is playing, I can see Raji and company really stirring it up on D. Couple that with the fact that Woodson just keeps on playing well and I see Pitt struggling to put up points. But as has already been pointed out, Pitt's back is against the wall and they are at home.

 

[harryhood]

But as has already been pointed out, Pitt's back is against the wall and they are at home.

This. Going with the Seahawks D over the Packers D as I see Pittsburgh having some success putting up points. Not a big fan of Grants prospects but I do think Rodgers, Driver, Jennings, Finely are going to be solid.I think Pitt wins this in a 24-21 type affair.

 

[Jeremy]

But as has already been pointed out, Pitt's back is against the wall and they are at home.

This. Going with the Seahawks D over the Packers D as I see Pittsburgh having some success putting up points. Not a big fan of Grants prospects but I do think Rodgers, Driver, Jennings, Finely are going to be solid.I think Pitt wins this in a 24-21 type affair.

I wonder, though, why Pitt was unable to rise to the occassion after embarrassing losses to KC, then Oakland, and then losing a must win game last week against the lowly Browns. I respect and fear Pittsburgh too, because of who they are, but I wonder if it's really reasonable to feel that way.

 

[harryhood]

But as has already been pointed out, Pitt's back is against the wall and they are at home.

This. Going with the Seahawks D over the Packers D as I see Pittsburgh having some success putting up points. Not a big fan of Grants prospects but I do think Rodgers, Driver, Jennings, Finely are going to be solid.I think Pitt wins this in a 24-21 type affair.

I wonder, though, why Pitt was unable to rise to the occassion after embarrassing losses to KC, then Oakland, and then losing a must win game last week against the lowly Browns. I respect and fear Pittsburgh too, because of who they are, but I wonder if it's really reasonable to feel that way.

True - they have killed me in pools all year thinking the light switch will come on. For some reason they arent the same without Troy P. I cant see Rodgers struggling too much unless the weather is bad or his line decides to regress to first 5 week form. Just thinking the Steelers find a way to make the chase interesting. Maybe it's the home field.

 

[Godsbrother]

But as has already been pointed out, Pitt's back is against the wall and they are at home.

This. Going with the Seahawks D over the Packers D as I see Pittsburgh having some success putting up points. Not a big fan of Grants prospects but I do think Rodgers, Driver, Jennings, Finely are going to be solid.I think Pitt wins this in a 24-21 type affair.

I wonder, though, why Pitt was unable to rise to the occassion after embarrassing losses to KC, then Oakland, and then losing a must win game last week against the lowly Browns. I respect and fear Pittsburgh too, because of who they are, but I wonder if it's really reasonable to feel that way.

True - they have killed me in pools all year thinking the light switch will come on. For some reason they arent the same without Troy P. I cant see Rodgers struggling too much unless the weather is bad or his line decides to regress to first 5 week form. Just thinking the Steelers find a way to make the chase interesting. Maybe it's the home field.

The current forecast calls for temps in the mid 30's with a few snow showers -- nothing that should affect either team unless the snow is heavier than expected and the field/ball get wet.I agree on paper the Packers should win this one easily though this is the NFL and anything can happen. The Steelers front seven isn't quite the same without Aaron Smith but they're still pretty good. However they are going to need to bring some pressure because the secondary has been playing awful. It is hard to believe but Troy Polamalu still leads the team in interceptions and no Steelers cornerback has an interception this season. I expect really nice games from Rodgers and the WRs.The Steelers offensive line was horrible last week against Cleveland and Kemoeatu won't play which means Ramon Foster will likely get his second start. Center Justin Hartwig is also nursing an injury but is expected to start. If the o-line plays decent the Steelers offense has some weapons and can put up points.The Steelers special teams has been terrible though so has Packers so maybe that is a wash. I expect the Pack to win this game 27-17.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Hopefully, it won't come down to a 40+ yard field goal to win at Heinz Field.

 

[Mookie Blaylock]

But as has already been pointed out, Pitt's back is against the wall and they are at home.

This. Going with the Seahawks D over the Packers D as I see Pittsburgh having some success putting up points. Not a big fan of Grants prospects but I do think Rodgers, Driver, Jennings, Finely are going to be solid.

I think Pitt wins this in a 24-21 type affair.

I wonder, though, why Pitt was unable to rise to the occassion after embarrassing losses to KC, then Oakland, and then losing a must win game last week against the lowly Browns. I respect and fear Pittsburgh too, because of who they are, but I wonder if it's really reasonable to feel that way.

True - they have killed me in pools all year thinking the light switch will come on. For some reason they arent the same without Troy P. I cant see Rodgers struggling too much unless the weather is bad or his line decides to regress to first 5 week form. Just thinking the Steelers find a way to make the chase interesting. Maybe it's the home field.

The current forecast calls for temps in the mid 30's with a few snow showers -- nothing that should affect either team unless the snow is heavier than expected and the field/ball get wet.I agree on paper the Packers should win this one easily though this is the NFL and anything can happen.

I really think this is a bit of a stretch. They are playing well right now, but they've beaten (last 5) CHI, BAL, DET, SF and DAL after giving TB their first and possibly only W of the year. The Steelers are not playing well, admittedly, but are playing at home with a chance at the playoffs. I do not think this is an easy win for the Pack. To me this game depends nearly 100% on pressure. Whichever defense gets the most pressure on the opposing QB is likely to win this game (I know, going out on a limb there).

 

[Kuz]

Do you guys expect Woodson to cover Ward more this week or Holmes?

 

[Mookie Blaylock]

Do you guys expect Woodson to cover Ward more this week or Holmes?

I'd expect the Steelers to move their WRs around and expect the Packers to roll coverage to the strong side. Wouldn't surprise me to see Miller catch a bunch this weekend. That said, the Packer LBs seem to be finding their groove right now. Who knows? It's all...classified.

 

[sho nuff]

Do you guys expect Woodson to cover Ward more this week or Holmes?

I expect Woodson to move around quite a bit.Probably more on Ward with Williams being on Holmes (a bit speedier than Woodson at this point). But Woodson will also play near the line some, blitz some and so on.I would expect the Steelers to take some shots on Williams too after the PI calls left and right in the Balt. game.

 

[Kuz]

Do you guys expect Woodson to cover Ward more this week or Holmes?

I expect Woodson to move around quite a bit.Probably more on Ward with Williams being on Holmes (a bit speedier than Woodson at this point). But Woodson will also play near the line some, blitz some and so on.I would expect the Steelers to take some shots on Williams too after the PI calls left and right in the Balt. game.

Thanks.. I think Holmes has a chance then...

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Is there a **Semi-official Packers Off Season Thread?

I just got my invoice - damn! End zone seats went from $59 to $67 a game.

Its getting harder to justify the committment, considering the large-screen HD view from my couch and comparing that to a sitting on the cold, hard, aluminum bench for three hourse with a 2+ hour drive up and back.

 

[pack100]

Is there a **Semi-official Packers Off Season Thread?I just got my invoice - damn! End zone seats went from $59 to $67 a game.Its getting harder to justify the committment, considering the large-screen HD view from my couch and comparing that to a sitting on the cold, hard, aluminum bench for three hourse with a 2+ hour drive up and back.

I will take them from you.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Is there a **Semi-official Packers Off Season Thread?I just got my invoice - damn! End zone seats went from $59 to $67 a game.Its getting harder to justify the committment, considering the large-screen HD view from my couch and comparing that to a sitting on the cold, hard, aluminum bench for three hourse with a 2+ hour drive up and back.

Milwaukee?

 

[sho nuff]

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Source...llion-deal.html

Clifton back.

A bit much...but needed to protect Rodger's blind side.

 

[Sabertooth]

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Source...llion-deal.html

Clifton back.

A bit much...but needed to protect Rodger's blind side.

I agree. They had a pistol to their forehead there. They need him and they need to get his replacement into the fold as well. In other news I see Miami released Gibril Wilson and Jerry Porter. I'd like Green Bay to look at both these players. I think Porter would be a big upgrade over Brad Jones. Could go a long way towards avoiding those shootouts that were the Achilles heal this season.

 

[sho nuff]

Id like to see them go after Bodden or Lito Sheppard.

Not great...but guys with experience and would be better for the D than Jarrett Bush.

And if Harris is not back, you have an experienced guy to start or play Nickel with Tramon and Woodson.

 

[sho nuff]

Whats the chance GB now signs Tauscher too...and use Lang at LG...releasing Colledge and having Spitz and Lang battle for the LG spot...Spitz to backup Wells...Lang to backup Tauscher?

 

[Sweetness_34]

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Source...llion-deal.html

Clifton back.

A bit much...but needed to protect Rodger's blind side.

So the packers were forced to overpay for Clifton considering they now have to worry about the 2 best DEs in the league busting up their QB (Peppers and Allen), not to mention probably Vandenbosch would have 2 sacks per game on that GB OL without CLifton and Tauscher ....

Very nice!

 

[Chicago Hooligan]

That's not overpaying for a LT. I don't know how this deal breaks down per year, but he made over $8m last season.

 

[sho nuff]

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Source...llion-deal.html

Clifton back.

A bit much...but needed to protect Rodger's blind side.

So the packers were forced to overpay for Clifton considering they now have to worry about the 2 best DEs in the league busting up their QB (Peppers and Allen), not to mention probably Vandenbosch would have 2 sacks per game on that GB OL without CLifton and Tauscher ....

Very nice!

Shocking...on that other board you were convinced he was not coming back...that Danny boy would not let him out.All bashing the Packers for "who was going to protect Rodgers"...now you bash the signing.

2 best DEs in the league? Sorry...Peppers is not in the top 2.

And there is 7.5 guaranteed...not too much of an overpay...he may never see year 3 of this one.

But you are as predictable as ever.

When it looked like they may not get him...you bashed them...when they sign him...you bash them.

Typical sweetness.