Instead, I’ll be focusing on where the Packers stand, as a team, as they begin the final assault on the 2010 NFL season. Some things from the Niners [...]]]> Since the Green Bay Packers’ 34-16 win over the San Francisco 49ers ended, oh, roughly 30 hours ago, this recap won’t be about the particulars of that one.

Instead, I’ll be focusing on where the Packers stand, as a team, as they begin the final assault on the 2010 NFL season. Some things from the Niners game will be included in there, of course.

(Note: In case you weren’t sure, I was at the game Sunday and was just too busy to write anything until I returned home from Titletown.)

The Packers, three-quarters of the way through the season, stand as a team with twice as many wins as losses. But there certainly aren’t twice as many things to like about this team as there are concerns.

Since you already think I’m taking a trip to Negativeville with that last graph, I’ll just continue on (but, dont’ worry – we’ll head back to Postivetown soon enough).

First, I do not like the way this team has been starting games recently. Against both Minnesota and San Francisco, the Packers basically air-mailed in the first 15-plus minutes of the contest. Things weren’t as bad against Atlanta, but still, the team had a shot to grab the momentum early and failed. With a tough final four games, against some elite competition, the Packers must correct this. Wait too long to get going against Mr. Brady and, well, don’t even bother trying to kick it up a notch.

Consider the circumstances Sunday. At home. Against a bad team. Coming off a crucial loss. Throwback Sunday. Should have been more than enough for the team to come out firing. It wasn’t. Even when the Packers got going in the second quarter, they continued to let the Niners back in the contest. Green Bay’s superior talent level ultimately overwhelmed San Francisco, as you’d expect, but what happens when the talent levels are equal?

Secondly, I’m starting to have some real concerns about certain aspects of this defense. The pass rush is really vanishing for stretches. Clay Matthews has been a fairly hefty non-factor over the past three weeks, perhaps being affected by his shin injury that’s caused him to sit out Wednesday and Thursday practices recently. Cullen Jenkins is out a couple of weeks now (calf), which only furthers my worry.

And, as I saw firsthand at Lambeau Field on Sunday, this secondary isn’t nearly as good without that pressure. I know, what secondary isn’t, right? Still, the Niners receivers got behind the secondary on numerous occasions, only being done in by quarterback Troy Smith’s complete lack of accuracy. A better quarterback – say, a Brady, Eli Manning or Jay Cutler – hits a lot of those throws. Dom Capers has done wonderful things with such a depleted group. He needs to dig into his bag of tricks one more time, though. Can he do it?

Lastly, I know I’m not breaking any new ground here, but again, being at the game up-close, I saw just how horrendous this special teams group really is. Good God almighty are they bad.

The lanes allowed on returns are not only vast and wide, but also quickly developing. I began to worry about every kickoff coverage within about two seconds of the returner getting the ball. Tim Masthay was terrible yet again, also. Yeah, the bad weather played a part, but…um…three of the last four games are in bad weather. So, there’s that. And it was nice to see Mason Crosby revert back to his unreliable ways, missing a short field goal. This unit could very well cost the Packers another big game, I’m sad to say.

Now, let’s turn this train back to Positivetown, shall we?

First, you’ve got to love the way Aaron Rodgers is playing. Five games in a row without a pick is nothing short of astounding, especially in today’s NFL. His confidence is higher than I’ve ever seen it before and he continues to hit almost every big throw he has to hit. After a rough start – okay, a really rough start – to the 2010 season, Rodgers has emerged as a viable MVP candidate 12 games in. As the old saying goes, when you’ve got a quarterback, you’ve got a chance.

Then there’s that Jennings guy he’s got at his disposal. Ever since Greg Jennings blew up on the sidelines at Washington, he’s been unstoppable. Granted, I don’t watch every NFL game every week, but I don’t need to – no receiver in football has been better than No. 85 over the past seven weeks. He’s simply beating every corner that lines up against him. His route-running, always top-notch, seems to have hit another level.

The rest of the receiving group has improved, as well. The drops still happen more than they should, but overall, this group is rounding into form nicely. The passing attack will give this team a chance in any game it plays.

Okay, I know some might kill me for this because it was only one game, but James Starks has me excited. He’s the perfect runner for this scheme – a straight-line runner who hits the hole, looks for his cut and goes. That’s what Ryan Grant was and Brandon Jackson – as much as I like him – will never be. Starks’ presence, as we saw Sunday, allowed Jackson to move back to the role he plays best: pass-catcher, blitz buster and occasional rusher.

And while you might think I’m completely down on the defense, I’m not. The group is still doing well on third downs, for the most part, and continues to take away the run for long stretches (outside of the Atlanta game, of course). Players like Tramon Williams (another outstanding showing Sunday) and B.J. Raji are still going strong.

But, mostly, it’s the offense that has me feeling good going into the final stretch. And that’s okay, because when I wrote the season preview for this site, I said it would be the offense leading the way. The defense carried this team through the first half, which was great but never really part of the plan. This team was always designed to be powered by the offense. That’s happening now, so it’s okay if the defense declines slightly (which it likely will, because now is the time when all those injuries start to hurt).

So, as this team heads into the final month of games at 8-4, I’d say I’m cautiously optimistic. I see things that can bring this team down and things that are good enough to guide the Packers through some really tough games. With Green Bay currently a half-game out of the final playoff spot in the NFC, the margin for error here is thin. Really thin. The Packers have to win at least two of their final four games. Anything less won’t be enough, but in the end, I think they get it done.

Bring on the mountain. I’m ready to climb.

-Chris Lempesis

Tramon Williams isn’t going anywhere.

Williams inked a four-year extension Tuesday that will keep him in green and gold through the 2014 season. The total value of the deal is believed to be worth $33.074 million.

Thanks to some nifty reporting from both Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press [...]]]> Green Bay Packers fans, you can rest easy.

Tramon Williams isn’t going anywhere.

Williams inked a four-year extension Tuesday that will keep him in green and gold through the 2014 season. The total value of the deal is believed to be worth $33.074 million.

Thanks to some nifty reporting from both Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press Gazette and the great Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, we can already begin to break down the particulars of Williams’ deal. The first key piece of the pie is the $6 million signing bonus, which he will presumably be given immediately. That leaves roughly $27 million coming his way. Here’s how he’ll get it:

• 2010: Earns an additional $5 million, the prorated portion of the $14.4 million 2010 salary he now carries under the new deal.
• 2011: $4.5 million total ($1 million salary, $2.5 million roster bonus, $1 million workout bonus)
• 2012: $6.1 million total ($2.3 million salary, $2.8 million roster bonus, $1 million workout bonus)
• 2013: $7.2 million total ($5.9 million salary, $300,000 roster bonus, $1 million workout bonus)
• 2014 $8.2 million total ($6.9 million salary, $300,000 roster bonus, $1 million workout bonus)

If you do the math, it’s actually a $37 million contract, instead of $33 million. That likely stems from the workout bonuses, since Williams can earn that extra $4 million at his own discretion. Either way, it’s a good deal, both for him and the team.

It’s nice to see a player like Williams rewarded. He stands as a perfect example of how to make a name for yourself – and be properly paid – the right way. As early as preseason 2008, people like broadcaster Larry McCarren were saying that Williams could start for roughly half the teams in the league. Armed with such praise – and the fact that he’s only continued to grow since the start of ‘08 – it would have been easy for Williams to demand more playing time.

He never did, though, instead focusing on getting better. And this summer, when Williams was reportedly upset about receiving an RFA tender instead of a new deal, it would have been easy for him to sit out in the hopes of forcing the team’s hand. Oh, I suppose he could have then come back, only to fake an injury/pair of injuries so he could get paid for almost no work, too (Mike McKenzie, cough, Atari Bigby, cough, cough). Again, he did not do this.

He simply set his mind to proving his true value on the field. He’s done that – and then some, becoming an All-Pro level talent this season, unquestionably the team’s No. 1 corner. And with this new deal done, he’s likely to stay in that role for quite some time to come. Great story all around and a lesson to other players: If you are good, you will be paid. Period.

Of course, there is now the question of what fallout, if any, comes from the extension. After all, there’s only so much money to go around and when one player gets paid, that likely means another player will not. And that’s a good thing, most of the time. As former Dallas Cowboys safety Darren Woodson said in the book, “Boys Will Be Boys”, you have to reward some players, but not all players. It sets a bad precedent. We need look no further than our old pal Mike Sherman for a lesson in how bad said precedent can be.

The list of Packers with deals set to expire after this season is rather low, which is a good thing. James Jones, Brandon Jackson, Mason Crosby and Desmond Bishop will all see their rookie contracts end. There were rumors awhile back that the team has approached Bishop about a new deal. If that happens – and I think it will – that means either Nick Barnett or A.J. Hawk will no longer be around come 2011 (my early vote goes to Barnett being gone, but we can talk about that down the road).

With the new CBA in flux, to say the least, it’s unknown how the restricted/unrestricted rules will shake out (currently a factor for players still in their rookie deals). Jackson and Crosby won’t cost much, so they should be back. Jones may end up asking for a fat new deal, but either way, I’d expect him back, as well.

The one player who likely loses out the most now? Cullen Jenkins. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s highly unlikely Jenkins is back with the team next season. The fact that Jenkins – in the final  year of a four-year, $16 million contract signed in 2007 – hasn’t gotten more attention from the team has puzzled both fans and Jenkins himself. The reasons are simple, though: Jenkins has been injury prone and/or faded down the stretch in each of the past four seasons. Why hand over big money to a player like that?

Also, the Packers already have two big-money d-linemen in Ryan Pickett and B.J. Raji. Then factor in Mike Neal’s return next year from injury. And don’t forget about Johnny Jolly’s return. Yes, he’s a yutz, but after serving a one-year suspension, he’ll come at a very low rate and will be ridiculously motivated to get a new contract. Throw in C.J. Wilson, a project who has shown some real flashes at times, and you already have five linemen.

To pay a 3-4 end like Jenkins big money to be the sixth makes little sense, especially when he can move back to a 4-3 defense and make even more money along the way. I’ve long suspected Jenkins would not be back in 2011 – Tuesday’s events simply confirmed it.

-Chris Lempesis

So, instead of simply griping about it, I’ve decided to go a different [...]]]> We all know the Green Bay Packers are a beat-up bunch. It’s something we at OBOD have tried to steer away from as much as possible because, well, we don’t like making excuses about our team. We’re just so un-Vikings fan-ish that way.

So, instead of simply griping about it, I’ve decided to go a different way. I’m going to rank the nine key players currently on the team’s injured reserve list (sadly, I left Josh Bell out). This is not a ranking of their skills, but rather their overall importance. For example, the No. 1 player listed is the player I’d most like to see healthy. I’ll also take some guesses on where each player’s future with the team stands.

Everyone good? Okay, here we go. As always, enjoy.

1. Jermichael Finley, tight end (knee) - There is simply no bigger reason for the offensive struggles over the past month than the absence of No. 88. Granted, the offense wasn’t looking elite before Finley’s injury, but with him out, the field has definitely shrunk for the rest of Green Bay’s pass catchers. It’s clear the offense never had much of a plan B in the event of a Finley injury. And, most damning, Aaron Rodgers still seems lost much of the time minus his top read. Finley’s stats, projected over a full season: 84 catches, 1,204 yards, four touchdowns. He likely won’t get that fat new contract now, but should be hungrier than ever come next year.
2. Ryan Grant, running back (ankle) - It took all of about three seconds for us to downplay Grant’s importance upon hearing he was lost for the year. Eight games later, I’d like to take back much of what I said. That’s not meant to be a shot at Brandon Jackson or John Kuhn because, actually, those two have been pretty okay. But, either alone or combined, they do not bring the same threat Grant did. Grant, while certainly not an elite back, at least gave opponents something to think about when gameplanning for Green Bay’s offense. He was at least a threat to break the century mark every week. With him gone, Mike McCarthy has been allowed to fully explore the dark side of his “shotgun, five-wide” philosophy. Not a good thing. With such a big salary for next year (he could earn as much as $6 million in salary and various bonuses), you have to wonder if cheaper options won’t be explored by the team.
3. Mike Neal, defensive end (shoulder) - At first, you might snicker seeing Neal this high on the list. Don’t. Despite only playing two games before seeing his season end, Neal showed some flashes of serious potential. Stout and strong enough to play the run - and quick enough to get to the passer - Neal would have been a key cog on the d-line. His presence would have given Green Bay three dual-threat linemen (Neal, B.J. Raji and Cullen Jenkins). It also would have allowed Dom Capers to do a whole lot more mixing-and-matching, depending on the situation. In 2011: Neal, Raji, Jenkins (he’ll be re-signed, fear not), Ryan Pickett and Johnny Jolly (starting to think he’ll be back). Yes, please.
4. Nick Barnett, inside linebacker (wrist) – The emergence of Desmond Bishop and the improvement of A.J. Hawk knock Barnett a little further down the list than originally thought at the time of his injury. Still, you know those times Hawk goes too high on a tackle or gets caught out of position in coverage? Yeah, those are the times you wish Barnett was still around. And his leadership is still sort of missed, as well, though that void has been filled somewhat filled by committee (Charles Woodson, Clay Matthews, etc.). Hawk is likely gone after this season, so even with a salary approaching the $6 million range, Barnett should return.
5. Morgan Burnett, safety (knee) - Solid, if unspectacular, for the two games he played before getting hurt, it’s highly likely Burnett would just be taking his game up a notch about now. Remember, Burnett has “big-time playmaker” written all over him. Luckily, Charlie Peprah’s emergence and the impending return of Atari Bigby (could happen this week) have made up for Burnett’s loss. With Burnett solidly in the fold for the foreseeable future, it’s likely that either Bigby or Peprah will not be back come 2011.
6. Brad Jones, outside linebacker (shoulder) - Jones played his best game of the season, hands down, in the win over Minnesota. With the luck the Packers have had this year with injuries, it’s darkly fitting that his shoulder injury – problematic since camp – would flair up so bad he’d have to have surgery immediately afterwards. Jones did not provide much pressure opposite Matthews, definitely disappointing. He was good against the run, though, and his pass rushing looked to be improving before he got hurt. Finding a more proven pass rushing commodity to play opposite Matthews – thus keeping Jones in a more limited role – is definitely a possibility in the offseason.
7. Derrick Martin, safety (knee) - As we all know, Martin brings limited value as an actual safety. His true value came as Green Bay’s best special teams player. With the Packers giving up at least one big return in each of the past four games, you can see why he’s been missed. Coming off such a severe injury, his return to the team next season seems in doubt, especially when you consider Green Bay’s considerable depth at the position.
8. Justin Harrell, defensive end (knee) - Harrell would have been a key member of the rotation along the d-line as he turned in a very solid training camp. Of course, we all know what happened next, don’t we? Harrell, as always, was bitten by the injury bug, less than two quarters into the season. Harrell deserves a great deal of credit for continuing to work his way back from injury. Unfortunately, it’s just never going to happen for him in the NFL. The Packers have given him four years. They can give him no more.
9. Brady Poppinga (knee), outside linebacker – Buried on the depth chart to start the season, injuries forced Poppinga into a key role, only he didn’t last long in said role. He showed a bit more potential in the 3-4 than he did last season (example: his huge overtime sack of Donovan McNabb in the Washington game). But when you consider that he’s due over $2 million next season, it becomes clear Poppinga has probably played his last down for the Packers.

What do you think of my rankings? As always, comment baby, comment!

-Chris Lempesis

Wednesday, we learned that outside linebacker Brad Jones’ season is indeed over. Jones has been placed on injured reserve and will undergo surgery on his damaged shoulder. The injury initially occurred in camp and was apparently significantly re-injured in Sunday night’s win [...]]]> Okay, now we can say the Green Bay Packers’ defense is devastated by injury.

Wednesday, we learned that outside linebacker Brad Jones’ season is indeed over. Jones has been placed on injured reserve and will undergo surgery on his damaged shoulder. The injury initially occurred in camp and was apparently significantly re-injured in Sunday night’s win over Minnesota.

Jones is the 10th Packer to go on I.R. this season. Six of those players – Jones, Nick Barnett, Morgan Burnett, Mike Neal, Brady Poppinga and Justin Harrell – were expected to be at least somewhat significant contributors for that unit in 2010. And don’t forget Brandon Chillar, Cullen Jenkins, Ryan Pickett, Clay Matthews – my God this list is long – Nick Collins and Charles Woodson. Every single one of those players has either missed time, will miss time or been at least semi-affected by injury.

Oh, by the way – Al Harris and Atari Bigby still haven’t been activated from the PUP list yet. With the Packers quickly signing (or claiming off waivers) four defensive players this week – three linebackers and a defensive tackle – you have to wonder just where those two are at in the recovery process. I have a bad feeling that it could be awhile until either of those two are on the 53-man roster. Like, “after the bye week” bad.

Yet, through all of this, defensive coordinator Dom Capers has somehow, someway, managed to keep Green Bay in the middle of the pack (no pun intended) on that side of the ball. The Packers are tied with New England for 16th with 136 points allowed, 19.4 per game. Green Bay is also 18th in total yards per game allowed (338.4). Now, I can’t say I’ve studied the numbers/performance of every defense he’s ever led, but one has to think this seven-game stretch is one of the best coaching jobs he’s ever turned in.

Here’s the thing, though: I’m not sure Capers can keep this up much longer. That’s not to question his smarts, because we know he has those in abundance. I’m not sure any defensive mind could keep this up. The depth is just so paper-thin. And, who knows if the injuries will ever stop for the defense? What happens if a crucial piece – say Matthews, Tramon Williams, Collins or Woodson – gets hit with a season-ender?

But, as always, I’m not going to paint a picture of a totally baren landscape. There’s hope for this defense – and it lies in an unexpected place.

The other side of the ball.

After seven games of fits, starts, heat, cool, north and south, the time for Green Bay’s offense to become the monster we all thought it could is now. That group simply can not turn in any more uneven performances if the Packers are to make this season a special one.

The biggest thing that must now happen is an honest-to-God dedication to dominating the time of possession. Seven games in, the Packers stand just 17th in average T.O.P. at 30:06 per game. The New York Giants lead the league in this category at 33:23 per game. Doesn’t seem like much, on the surface, but as we’ve learned this season, 3:17 can be a lifetime, especially if you’re playing with a battered defense. Imagine an extra three minutes-plus in Green Bay’s favor against Miami. Or Washington.

In order to boost those T.O.P. numbers, a re-tooling of Mike McCarthy’s approach to gameplanning is in order. Stubborn as he is, you might think this impossible. But, actually, it’s not. McCarthy took some fairly major steps in this direction against the Vikings, showing more dedication to the run game than at any previous point this season. In his Wednesday presser, McCarthy hinted that we’ll see more Brandon Jackson this Sunday against the New York Jets.

Whether it works this week or not, it’s something he needs to go with the rest of the way. Jackson has shown some flashes of real potential. He won’t likely overwhelm anyone with his size, speed or toughness, but has just enough of each quality to make him intriguing (and his vision’s not bad, either). Like all backs, he’ll only get better as the carries pile up. And Bryan Bulaga’s emergence at right tackle gives Green Bay a solid side of the line to rush off of as Bulaga and Josh Sitton are both quick, tough and nasty run blockers.

The passing game, Mike Mac’s pride and joy, must also be re-worked. Simply put, this team continues to chase the home run ball far more often than is necessary. It’s killing drives and causing turnovers. Considering how far Aaron Rodgers and his receivers appear to be off in the chemistry department, it’s surprising how many deep shots this offense continues to take. Those are low-percentage throws and do nothing to get things back in-synch. If you were a basketball player, would you continue to chuck threes up on a cold shooting night? You’d try for as many layups as possible to get yourself back into a rhythm, right?

For the Packers, these layups consist of  throws within the six-to-15 yard range. This offense lived there during last season’s 7-1 finish to the regular season. And when things were looking bleak in the wild card game, how did the offense get itself back on track? Exactly.

Somewhere between the wild card loss and the start of the 2010 season, the Packers became convinced that a passing attack can only be considered great if it goes shotgun, five-wide and racks up 25 yards on every dropback. That just isn’t true (see: the San Francisco 49ers of the 1980s). Look at golf, for example. Any pro can step up to the tee and crush it. The great ones separate themselves through the short game.

Getting back to that 7-1 mindset puts the ball in the hands of your playmakers quicker, thus allowing them to do what they do quicker. This approach makes for plays that, while not as sexy as the home run ball (something Rodgers seems way too preoccupied with, anyways), can be run in higher quantity. More plays equals more time of possession and a tired opposing defense.

By re-dedicating themselves to the little things – more handoffs here and more seven-yard throws there – the Packers can fully utilize the considerable talent they have on offense, even without Jermichael Finley and Ryan Grant.

For a defense that becomes exponentially less considerable in the talent department seemingly by the day, it’s the least they can do.

-Chris Lempesis

For part two, it’s time to look at the tough guys on defense (and those wimps on special teams…I kid, I kid).

Front seven - Yeah, that’s right. We’re going a different way on this one. It seems ridiculous to compare the respective defensive lines/linebacking corps for the [...]]]> Okay, so we’ve covered the pretty boys on offense.

For part two, it’s time to look at the tough guys on defense (and those wimps on special teams…I kid, I kid).

Front seven - Yeah, that’s right. We’re going a different way on this one. It seems ridiculous to compare the respective defensive lines/linebacking corps for the teams because, really, they’re asked to do different things. So, instead, we’ll just give an overview of the two groups and then decide who’s got the edge.

The Green Bay Packers, obviously, run a 3-4 scheme. So far, so good for the front seven in that group. The run defense, while perhaps not operating at a No. 1-level, has been more than sound. The 5.3 yards per carry allowed is completely misleading, as most of those yards came from Michael Vick’s showing in week one (against a defense that had not prepared for him).

The linebackers have been quick to the ball, like last season, and the trio of Cullen Jenkins, B.J. Raji and Ryan Pickett has been very good. That should continue, though Mike Neal’s presence will be required on the line at some point so those three can avoid hitting empty on the tank. He’s unlikely to play in this one, though, due to his rib injury.

The pass rush generated from this group has been outstanding, as Green Bay led the NFL in sacks coming into the weekend (10). Most of this stems from Clay Matthews hitting beast mode, of course, but it’s not just him. Raji and Jenkins have also been strong in this area. Matthews should have a field day with this weak Chicago line, but at some point, another linebacker is going to have to step it up.

For the Bears, it’s the same old Cover 2 scheme that they’ve always run. If you don’t know, in this scheme, most of the pressure is generated from the front four, while the linebackers are mainly asked to play the run and drop in coverage. The run defense has been, in a word, sterling. Chicago had the NFL’s top-ranked run defense through two games, allowing just 1.4 yards per carry (with a long of eight. Eight!). Brian Urlacher is healthy and playing near his old level, with running mate Lance Briggs continuing to be the league’s most underrated linebacker.

The Bears’ pass rush has not been as effective, recording just two sacks so far. Julius Peppers, the team’s big-name offseason acquisition, has just one, although he also knocked Detroit’s Matthew Stafford out in week one with a shoulder injury. Look for him to show up in a big way here, as it’s a nationally-televised night game (his specialty). Tommie Harris is a very good d-tackle and Mark Anderson is an end who knows how to get to the quarterback.

In the end, though, I think Green Bay is better in more front-seven facets than is Chicago. Edge: Packers

Secondary - Okay, I’m keeping this one real short. For Green Bay: Charles Woodson, Tramon Williams, Nick Collins and Morgan Burnett.

For Chicago: Zackary Bowman, Danieal Manning, Chris Harris and Charles Tillman.

Who would you rather have? Edge: Packers

Special Teams - The biggest area of surprise for the 2010 Packers so far. The coverage units have been fantastic, as has kick returner Jordy Nelson and kicker Mason Crosby. Punter Tim Masthay has been just okay, but even he hasn’t been terrible. Williams hasn’t made any mistakes as a punt returner, but at some point, you’d like to see him break one.

The Bears have two really good returners in Johnny Knox and the always-fearsome Devin Hester. Kicker Robbie Gould has been his usual sturdy self and punter Brad Maynard is one of the best in the business. While I like what I’ve seen from Green Bay in this department, Chicago has been better for longer and could definitely take advantage of the Packers here. Edge: Bears

While the Packers take six out of eight categories overall, this game will still be close. The Bears are at home and desperately want to serve notice that they are a team you need to take seriously. Plus, Lovie Smith’s teams always battle Green Bay until the end. I said the Packers would win, 27-24, and I’m sticking to that, mainly because of their overall edge in talent.

But expect a nailbiter, folks. See you after the game.

-Chris Lempesis

Tuesday, it seemed as though the Green Bay Packers might have found a solution to their return man quandary.

Former All-Pro returner Clifton Smith, recently released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was in [...]]]> (Note: Last season, I called this post the “Wednesday Wrap-up.” We’re going with the new name because, well, it’s just more fun, isn’t it?)

Tuesday, it seemed as though the Green Bay Packers might have found a solution to their return man quandary.

Former All-Pro returner Clifton Smith, recently released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was in town and appeared to be considering signing with the team. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out as Smith ultimately signed with the Miami Dolphins.

This leaves the Packers with scant few options for what do to at that spot, good because the season is only a few days away (note the sarcasm).

During his even-more-testy-than-usual-press conference Sunday, Ted Thompson said the team likes the options it has. Monday, head coach Mike McCarthy shed some light on what those options are. We knew most of them already – Brandon Jackson and Jordy Nelson as possible kick returners and Tramon Williams as a possible punt returner – but the fourth option was an eye-opener, to say the least: Greg Jennings at punt returner.

Whoa.

Jennings hasn’t even returned a punt since his rookie season in 2006 – and even then he only returned five of them for a whopping 29 yards total. Since then, Jennings has, of course, developed into an elite receiver. Putting a player of his stature in a role that lends itself so easily to injury is almost unheard of, nowadays.

 To hear McCarthy tell it, Jennings and Williams may end up rotating at that spot, depending on the situation. Still, my guess is that Williams will handle the bulk of the duties there. He’s shown some flashes of potential in that role and, unlike Jennings, has recent experience there. The team may be trying to put on the aggressive sell here, but I just don’t see No. 85 returning that many punts. I’m not saying it won’t happen – it just won’t happen more than maybe once a game, if that. Imagine if he was to get injured doing such a thing. McCarthy would look unbelievably stupid.

Of course, he may not look that smart for putting the team’s No. 2 corner there, either, especially when you consider the apparent lack of depth at that position. That said, I don’t have as much of a problem with Williams doing it. He seems to actually want to fill that role and, let’s be honest, there isn’t really anyone else who can do it. To second Gene’s thoughts from a recent phone conversation, why the (expletive deleted) can’t Sam Shields learn how to field a punt?

Nelson on punt returns, you say? Well, let’s talk about him right now.

Simply put, I do not want to see Nelson in any sort of return role this season (even though I know we will). He’s got some potential, but ball security is far too often an issue with him. It never got much better as last season went on and I just don’t think he’s earned another shot there. Same goes with kick returns. Jackson should handle all of the duties there. He may or may not struggle with ball security at times this year, as well, but the Packers already know what they’ve got with Nelson there. And it’s not good. In this case, I’ll take the devil I don’t know.

In the end, this team whiffed on its decision to wait out Will Blackmon’s knee injury. The Packers were sure it would get better, even though every indication pointed towards the exact opposite. They waited and waited and by the time Blackmon’s knee proved to be too much to deal with, all other options were exhausted. Green Bay now has what it has. We just have to hope it’s enough.

Packers looking good on the health front (well, it IS week one)

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Almost everyone on the roster was a full-go Wednesday, including linebackers Clay Matthews (hamstring) and Brad Jones (shoulder) and defensive end Cullen Jenkins (calf). Nice to see three key members of the defense back and practicing, although I always figured they’d be ready for week one.

Corner Brandon Underwood (shoulder) was a limited participant, but McCarthy told reporters he’s moving along in the rehab. Harness or not, I have a feeling Underwood will play Sunday. And not just because I dislike Jarrett Bush so much.

Brady Poppinga (knee) did not practice, but it sounds like that was just a one-day thing and he should be back Thursday.

A (self-indulgent) look at the rest of the week for OBOD

Last season, we usually closed out game weeks with my NFL predictions and a “Breaking down Packers vs….” post. The picks will surely remain – you need something to laugh at, right? – and, as of now, the thinking is that the “Breaking down” post will also return, although likely in a different fashion than last season. Still working out the kinks on that.

You’ll see both of those before this week is out, along with some other assorted goodies thrown in there, especially if Gene ends up making his NFL season predictions. No promises on that, though, as even Adam and I have no idea what Gene’s going to do. And we don’t force him, either. Nobody puts Gene in a corner.

-Chris Lempesis

(One more game and it’s finally over.)

That changed Sunday.

The Packers got back to work on the practice field and there was some fairly significant news to come out of it. So, that being the case, we’ve decided to whip [...]]]> The Green Bay Packers had been very quiet since Thursday night’s preseason pounding of the Indianapolis Colts.

(One more game and it’s finally over.)

That changed Sunday.

The Packers got back to work on the practice field and there was some fairly significant news to come out of it. So, that being the case, we’ve decided to whip up a batch of training camp stew for you. Not a bad way to start off the week, right?

As always, the information in this report comes courtesy of the fine folks at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Green Bay Press Gazette and ESPN Milwaukee’s Jason Wilde.

• Well, we have a winner in the left guard battle: Daryn Colledge. Head coach Mike McCarthy made the announcement after practice today and, really, it comes as no surprise. Colledge, despite getting a better-than-expected (at least in my mind) test from Bryan Bulaga, has been solid in camp for the most part. And with the offensive line, as a whole, playing so well, McCarthy clearly did not want to mess with that, even if it means rolling the dice with a player who has experienced an up-and-down career. The move also means Bulaga can fully heal up, as he’s been dealing with a hip flexor throughout camp.
• Still, even with Colledge winning the job, I don’t think his leash is all that long. Bulaga has shown he can play the position – and play it well – and my best guess is that McCarthy won’t be afraid to go to him at that spot if Colledge has a tough start to the season.
• The Al Harris saga continues. Sunday we found out that Harris is likely out for the season opener and the team is now faced with the decision to either put him on the 53-man roster or place him on the PUP list, making him unavailable until week seven. Quite honestly, I’ve been wrong so often on Harris that, at this point, I am not totally sure what the team should do with him.
• One thought, though: If he’s unavailable for the Philly game, don’t you then have to look at the schedule? Buffalo, Chicago, Detroit, Washington and Miami would be the five games he’d miss. How many of those teams have deep receiving corps? By my count, none. In that case, it seems to make sense to put him on the list and have him ready for Minnesota on Oct. 24. He’d surely be 100 percent by then. Again, just a thought.
•  Of course, that decision would be easier if Brandon Underwood wasn’t struggling with a shoulder injury. But he is, meaning Sam “My Guy” Shields is getting a look at the nickel spot. I like Shields, but as a nickel? Hopefully, Underwood’s shoulder isn’t that bad.
• Let’s break up the injury news and talk about punters. Tim Masthay outboomed (not sure if that’s a real word) Chris Bryan again Sunday and appears to have taken the lead in the battle there (remember, Masthay was better Thursday, as well). I thought Bryan had the job locked up after his nice start to camp. But Masthay’s gaining on him steadily. No clear winner yet, but I’d guess that will change by Friday morning. In fact, I’d say one of the last decisions the coaches make will be on this position.
• Back to the injury news that’s bad. Cullen Jenkins continues to miss time with his calf injury. He’s all but out for Thursday at Kansas City. Fortunately, though, he should be locked-and-loaded for Philly. And, really, isn’t that all that matters? Seriously, can you imagine the d-line without Jenkins? Scary thought.
• On the bright side, Brad Jones and Clay Matthews appear ready to return, possibly as soon as Thursday night. As much as I don’t want anyone of note to play in this game, I do think it’s important for those two to get a handful of snaps in to shake off the accumulated rust.
• Anyone else starting to worry about Will Blackmon’s knee injury that still isn’t up to par? Anyone else thinking Jason Cherry could crack the roster as a return guy if he turns in another good showing Thursday?
• Should I talk about Quinn Porter’s apparently serious ankle sprain or save it for an updated 53-man roster for Tuesday? I’ll save it, but I think Kregg Lumpkin should be happy about this news.

-Chris Lempesis

That could be especially true in this one, as the Green Bay Packers take on the Indianapolis Colts and some cat named Peyton at Lambeau Field tonight [...]]]> Well, the third preseason game is here. And, as Denny Green once famously informed us, this is the one that teams do not, in fact, play like it’s bull(expletive), bull(expletive)!

That could be especially true in this one, as the Green Bay Packers take on the Indianapolis Colts and some cat named Peyton at Lambeau Field tonight at 7 p.m. Lambeau Time on ESPN.

As usual in game No. 3, we should see the starters for each team play at least one half. That’ll be good, but here’s what I’d like to see from the entire team – starters, backups and guys who will be bagging groceries in a week:

Offense

• A clear-cut winner emerge in the Daryn Colledge/Bryan Bulaga battle at left guard. Of course, that doesn’t mean I want to see one player struggle more than the other (even I don’t dislike Colledge that much). Rather, I’d like to see one guy turn in a dominating performance and win the job outright. It’s time to get the starting five set.
• A lot of the running game in the first half, Brandon Jackson in particular. We all know what Ryan Grant can do and, while I think he should get a decent amount of carries, Jackson should be the main guy when the starters are in. He’s been good in the first two games, but it’s time for him to be tested against another team’s starters.
• Greg Jennings on the sidelines in sweats, please. Don’t need his back spasms getting any worse.
• Donald Driver, Jordy Nelson and James Jones make some plays in the first half. Those guys have been quiet in the first couple of games – Driver was out last Saturday, though – and it’d be nice to see them become involved.
• Jermichael Finley just keep doing what he’s been doing.
• A clear-cut winner emerge in the Quinn Porter-Kregg Lumpkin battle for the No. 3 running back spot. Both are injured and I’m not sure of either’s status. But at least one of them needs to suck it up and get through this – after all, an NFL job is on the line.
• Matt Flynn build on his nice showing from the Seattle game. These next two games are potentially huge for his future if he wants to be an NFL starter someday.
• Spencer Havner and/or Andrew Quarless make some big plays. The Pack are going to keep four tight ends, as much as that baffles me, so the bottom two might as well be good.
• Breno Giacomini finally add some “Steak” to all the “Sizzle” the coaches have sold us on with him for the entire offseason. His future in Green Bay depends on it.

Defense

• Some pass rush from someone in the starting unit. I know, I know – Green Bay may once again be without its entire starting linebacking corps (A.J. Hawk, Brad Jones, Clay Matthews and Nick Barnett). And I know that it’s really, really hard to get pressure on the great Peyton Manning. But whoever may happen to be starting on defense, it’s imperative that some form of a pass rush gets established here, just so the team can be more sure in that area heading into Philly on Sept. 12.
• B.J. Raji get some real push up the middle. The big fella’s been solid, if unspectacular, during camp thus far. Let’s see a little spectacular tonight.
• Cullen Jenkins join Jennings on the sidelines in sweats, please. That ankle has to be ready for the games that count.
• Manning challenge Charles Woodson at least a couple of times, so we can see what really happens when two elite talents go right at each other.
• Pat Lee and Brandon Underwood be less terrible than they were last week. With Woodson returning, these guys will draw the nickel and dime spots, respectively, and should get a good test against a deep Colts receiving corps.
• Morgan Burnett do better. It’s time for him to start coming around a bit, rookie or not. And, even though it’s a game that doesn’t count, you know Manning will throw right at him.
• Someone emerge at d-line from the group of Justin Harrell, C.J. Wilson and Jarius Wynn. A key spot in the rotation is there for the taking, fellas.
• Sam Shields make some plays so he can shut all the doubters up. Come on, man – you’re “My Guy” for 2010 training camp. Don’t make me look silly.
• Two words: More Zombo!

Special Teams

• Mason Crosby keep doing what he’s been doing over the past 10 days.
• Everyone else be much, much, much better in every single area. That is all.

And, as usual, I’ll end this with the thing I’d like to see more than any of the rest: NO INJURIES!!

We’ll be back afterwards to wrap it all up. Enjoy the game, everyone.

-Chris Lempesis

Over the weekend, I was listening to a recent Bill Simmons podcast that he did with NFL Network’s Michael Lombardi. The two discussed Lombardi’s “Blue Chip Rankings” article he wrote for NFL.com. It’s a fascinating examination, if you [...]]]> (The Green Bay Packers were off on Sunday. As such, the “Training Camp Stew” will return Monday night.)

Over the weekend, I was listening to a recent Bill Simmons podcast that he did with NFL Network’s Michael Lombardi. The two discussed Lombardi’s “Blue Chip Rankings” article he wrote for NFL.com. It’s a fascinating examination, if you haven’t yet read it.

Afterwards, I decided to check out his rankings for myself, specifically to focus on where he ranked certain Packers players and the team, as a whole.

Some background: Lombardi ranked the best players at each position as “blue chip.” Second-tier players were given “red chip” status. He only put a certain amount of players in each position/category.

Some of Lombardi’s rankings made sense; he was certainly off on some others, though.

Where was Lombardi correct?

His overall idea that quarterbacks, offensive tackles, defensive ends and outside linebackers are the most important players on a team was spot-on.

In terms of specific Packers, he was correct to give Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Jermichael Finley and Charles Woodson “blue chip” status. It was also nice to see him give Cullen Jenkins “red chip” status as Jenkins is usually overlooked by national analysts. Giving Nick Collins “red chip” status was one I wasn’t sure on, but I ultimately decided to agree with Lombardi there. There’s still another level Collins can reach.

He’s correct in not listing any Green Bay o-linemen in either category. Obviously, he’s right in doing the same for the team’s specialists. And, for as much as I like head coach Mike McCarthy, he’s certainly not worthy of elite status yet – something Lombardi did not give him.

Okay, now it’s time for the fun part – the part where I say how wrong he was in certain spots.

While he’s correct on QBs, OTs, DEs and OLBs being the most important spots on the field, he should have included one more: cornerback. With the ever-increasing emphasis on passing in the NFL, you could argue that a top-flight corner is every bit as important as a defensive end or outside linebacker. This is especially true late in the season when front-seven players tend to wear down significantly.

As for specific Packers, he made two glaring omissions: No Ryan Grant or Donald Driver anywhere on the list. Really, Mike?

I’m not saying Grant should have been in the “blue chip” category, because ultimately I don’t think he is. Grant, however, is a pretty good back who puts up good numbers – and doesn’t fumble the ball – while playing in a pass-heavy offense. Seriously, he included Knowshon Moreno and Darren Sproles in the “red chip” category, but not Grant. Huh?

His mistake on Driver is perhaps even worse.

Driver consistently puts up 1,000-plus yards receiving every season. He stays healthy and has shown to be really good with two different, albeit fantastic, quarterbacks. Miles Austin (one good season) and Calvin Johnson (one great year and two solid ones) were both placed in the “blue chip” category, while Sidney Rice (one good year with you-know-who) was placed in the “red chip” category. I’m sorry, but Driver is better than Austin and Rice. Johnson’s a freak, sure, but for now, he’s still more sizzle than steak. Can’t say the same about Driver.

And, if you’re only going to base things on potential and not long-term production, why was Clay Matthews only listed in the “red chip” category? I guess Lombardi didn’t see how much of a part Matthews played in the defense’s turnaround last year. 

These last two names may put me in the “homer” category, but Ryan Pickett and Nick Barnett are both “red chip” players, in my mind. Not great, but certainly good – and very important – players.

Lombardi said, both in his article and the Simmons podcast, that he originally thought Green Bay would grade out higher, as a team (the Packers were just 15th in the team rankings, behind Denver and Carolina but above Tennessee). Well, if Lombardi had ranked things a bit more properly, the Packers would have. Seriously, he’s got the Redskins ranked higher, as a team.

Again, Lombardi was not completely off on his list. But some of his rankings just left me scratching my head.

What say you guys? Take a look at his rankings and give us your thoughts.

-Chris Lempesis