Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
Coaching Carousel - Phew! Is your head spinnning yet? Let's review.
Nathanial Hackett - New Denver HC.
Luke Getsy - New Bears OC
Adam Stenovich - Promoted to Packers OC
Jason Vrable - Promoted to Packers WR/Passing Game Coordinator
Luke Butkus - Promoted to Packers OL Coach
Ryan Mahaffey - Promoted to Packers Asst OL Coach
Connor Lewis - Promoted to Packers Asst QB Coach
Justin Outten - Expected to leave for Denver OC job
Mo Drayton - Mercifully relieved of his duties
In Demand - Remember the days when Packers assistant coaches couldn't get a sniff from opposing teams? Wasn't that long ago.
Next Hire - So currently there is no QB coach. I imagine before making that hire, LaFleur would love to know which quarterback he will be working with.
WR - It blows my mind thinking about how empty the Packers' WR room could be once free agency rolls around. Probably blowing Rodgers' mind also.
Huh? - I wasn't happy with LaFleur's comment that he would need to "study the rest of the teams in the league to see how many starters play on special teams." He can't make his own decision on how he should handle that?
Cobby - Many Packers fans were sure Randall Cobb would be the missing piece for a Packers Super Bowl run. Well, he certainly was misisng from Aaron Rodgers' field of viison in the 49ers game. This despite the Packers' QB forcing a Cobb return onto GM Brian Gutekunst. Needless to say, the players Gutey brought in on his own, DeVondre Campbell, Rasul Douglas, etc, had a much bigger impact on this team. Maybe the QB is not the smartest GM in the room.
Campbell Soup - No one could have known it, not even Gutey, but Campbell was the missing ingredient that helped Joe Barry cook up a hearty defensive soup. Campbell showed the agressiveness and "want to" that's been lacking at the Packers ILB position for quite some time. I hope the organization has learned something here.
Special Teams - Does Brian Flores know anything about special teams?
New Kicks - The Packers will look very different next year - will that include a new and cheaper placekicker after a down year for Mason Crosby?
Cold Hearted - As romantic a story as we all like to think it is, Lambeau Field in January cold weather just doesn't seem to be much of an advantage for the Packers. It's the same temperature for both teams and damn if Rodgers didn't have a little bit of that uncomfortable really cold Brett Favre look in that fourth quarter.
Invisible Deguara - I wrote previously how Rodgers ignored a wide-open Deguara all game long against the 49ers. When you blanket cover Adams, there's going to be a weakness in your coverage somewhere. Covering the tight end is where that weakness was and it was likely a deliberate and smart choice by the 49ers.For your viewing pleasure, here is an interesting video someone did on Rodgers ignoring open receivers in that game. You'll see that it's often Deguara that is wide open. And before anyone says it was a trust thing, some of these were before Deguara dropped that low pass from Rodgers.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of many hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He is also a recovering Mason Crosby truther. Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP.
__________________________
Comments (122)
nygary
February 02, 2022 at 06:26 am
Rodgers needs to go. While we can get several high draft picks for him the pack should make a trade. The bull shit he brings to the table all year is just so annoying. Give the d-line help and add another middle linebacker and the D should become a top 10 defense.
Guam
February 02, 2022 at 07:36 am
I find myself rooting for Stafford and the Rams to win the Super Bowl, not because I particularly care for either one, but because that would make the second year in a row that a "rent-a-quarterback" would win the Super Bowl. That could only drive up the market for Rodgers and give the Packers a bigger haul in a trade that has to happen. Go Rams Go........
Barnacle
February 02, 2022 at 08:01 am
So we are going to wait until our diva decides if he will play for us next year before hiring a QB coach. I wish our management would quit rebuffing trade interest and get what we can and move on.
Rodgers has recently displayed better behavior than Jeff George, but not much.
dobber
February 02, 2022 at 08:59 am
Teams can't actually trade until the start of the league year in March. Certainly teams can negotiate well ahead of the deadline, but they can't officially do anything until then. For all we know, the Packers have been fielding calls on ARod (I'd be surprised if there has been zero talk with other teams at this point), but until the SB, teams usually are pretty tight-lipped and open talk is minimal.
With that in mind, there's not much to worry about so long as ARod sticks to his timeframe for announcing whether he's planning to play (hint: of course he is).
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 09:53 am
I believe there's also a small window in the new league of March 16 to franchise and trade Adams.
Coldworld
February 02, 2022 at 10:49 am
There is about a week before the start of the league year after the deadline for tagging. That period includes the few days where teams can talk to UFAs unofficially before the new league year and the start of free agency.
This year the tag must be imposed by March 8. Unofficial contact is allowed on March 14 and free agency starts on the 16. Teams much be under the cap ceiling by the 16th.
Once tagged, the full salary counts against the cap immediately until the player is traded officially or signs a new long term contract (if not agreed by mid June, the tag contract is fixed for the year and cannot be altered).
dobber
February 02, 2022 at 12:53 pm
"Once tagged, the full salary counts against the cap immediately"
The tag represents a 2022 contract, so the tag value doesn't kick in until the first day of the new league year in March. They can tag him as early as Feb. 22.
Thegreatreynoldo
February 03, 2022 at 04:59 am
True, but clarity is being lost, I fear. The tag will count against the Packers under the Rule of 51 the instant the new league year begins.
By that I mean there is no window available so that the amount of the franchise tag does not count against the Packers. Adams' cap number for the Packers in 2022 is zero. If he is tagged it will be about $20M. They have to be $20M under the 208M limit in order to tag him.
In other words, the Packers cannot tag Adams between Feb 22 and March 8, not have the amount count against them and trade him to some other team for draft picks between March 9 and 15th for example. You can't trade any player and you can't trade a team's rights under a franchise tag.
I don't believe there is a window.
Coldworld
February 03, 2022 at 07:55 am
That’s more information than I cared to type out more adeptly explained than I could have. I just boiled it down to the result in practice.
dobber
February 03, 2022 at 08:01 am
...because the player must sign the franchise tag contract (or any contract) before he can be traded. Correct?
Stands to reason, because if such a window existed, I think it would be exploited by teams regularly.
greengold
February 03, 2022 at 10:37 pm
What an awesome reply & relay of info. Thanks, TGR!
Been insanely immersed in work and haven’t been around much, but, just hoping for the best.
KurtMc
February 02, 2022 at 07:16 am
Great clip and breakdown. QB12 needs to find a new start elsewhere. A MVP QB would take what the D gives and move the chains. Excellent point on coaches. Either they didn’t see the check downs open OR Rogers is too damn stubborn and smarter than everyone else looking for the long ball.
A total failure of the entire Offense organization, including the coaches.
Another hungry QB with a great running game, decent WR’s will do fine.
GPG
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 08:08 am
...QB12 needs to find a new start elsewhere...
For both our sakes, I think that this is true. Rodgers still has lots left in the tank and he needs to find a team and coach that embraces his downfield preference. There is nothing wrong with this - it is what it is.
mnbadger
February 02, 2022 at 12:36 pm
it shouldn't have been allowed to be about his preference! My preference would be to have a unicorn, but I'lll take my retriever because he's right here in front of me and willing to serve. GPG
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 08:19 am
I had a prop bet on Deguara having a big game. Just a Fans game plan, mind you. LaFleur had him schemed open etc, etc. Rodgers froze in another big moment and best he move on.
dobber
February 02, 2022 at 09:00 am
It just shows you that it looks like even a less talented QB who works his progressions should be able to find targets and move the chains in this offense.
Bitternotsour
February 02, 2022 at 11:30 am
it's time to Let Love In.
BirdDogUni
February 02, 2022 at 11:45 am
It seems to me I remember a young guy who played a little bit in pre-season who found a couple open guys, checked it down a couple times... Think his name was Jordan Love?
He also had a couple hole shots that were awesome too... Just saying
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 06:52 pm
It was all there for the taking.
13TimeChamps
February 02, 2022 at 09:45 am
Should coaches have to point out to a multiple MVP, 17 year veteran that there are wide open check down opportunities that he should be throwing to, to keep moving the chains? Especially in such a tight game where 1st downs are so critical. That's something you would expect with a young, inexperienced QB still learning to go through his progressions.
stockholder
February 02, 2022 at 07:29 am
The Coaching Carousel - Is this going to be the next excuse if we don’t get 13 wins? I hope not. With all the great players that have played in Green Bay. Seems they could find one guy that wants to coach here. Wrs- The Room maybe empty. — Everyone of the WRS have been hurt. Except Adams. I can understand why Rodgers wants him back. Doubt any of them are worth the money. MLF comment- Let it go. It’s about what works. And Nobody wants to play on Special Teams. But had too. (Example St. Brown.) Cobby - If that cap hit of 9 mil. Is right. Thanks but No thanks. Campbell Soup to nuts. - 10 mil says he moves on. Crosby didn’t change his holder. Give him another year. Cold hearted. = He called of his marriage. He’s a complicated fellow. Football is his Life. He’ll come back. Deguara- drops passes. I wouldn’t throw to him either, if I was having a bad Day. We all know when Rodgers is on. And when he’s off, he has to trust someone.
ironman3169
February 02, 2022 at 10:30 am
I really hate reading your comments.
stockholder
February 02, 2022 at 12:03 pm
Then don't read them.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 07:00 pm
The first guy I sign is Campbell. This is a guy that played at an ALL PRO level and fills the middle. Savage is a guy I would move in a trade. Adams is on to Greener pastures. MVS on a basic deal or so long. Deguara is under-utilized and nobody goes to the frozen tundra to catch a low and away pitch. Hell, no knee pads, hip pads etc.
greengold
February 03, 2022 at 10:40 pm
Proper.
Johnblood27
February 02, 2022 at 07:36 am
Step one - Fire Drayton... check
now other steps can be made.
I am also tired of the coaching carousel. It is time for coaches to have contracts that they are forced to live up to. This musical chair routine for minimal advancement is only harmful to the fans who root for one team. I get the career advancement thing, however one or two years with a system/team cannot be great for skill/knowledge development for the coaches and it is simply a crapshoot by the hiring team that the coach is ready for a step up and more responsibility. Make them stay for 3-5 years so the team can get some consistency. If the coach is not working out and needs to be relieved, they should get all of their contract paid, it should be a 2-way street.
dobber
February 02, 2022 at 09:05 am
"It is time for coaches to have contracts that they are forced to live up to."
Isn't this the same consideration you would want? That if you can move up in the world, you don't want your employer to be able to stop you? I don't think there's anything unreasonable about that.
" If the coach is not working out and needs to be relieved, they should get all of their contract paid, "
In the real world there are 'severance packages' for problem employees, but it's often dependent on the type of dismissal. If you're firing someone for cause or for gross incompetence, you don't often have to give them extra money to go.
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 07:39 am
I watched the "open TE" video and not sure that I buy what he is selling. Yes, Rodgers did not play well but our O-line was beat most of the game, our run game didn't threaten anyone and the 49ers played our offense the same way that all good defenses play Rodgers. QB and coaches didn't/couldn't do anything to overcome the standard gameplan against Rodgers. I would argue that the Packers do not have enough speed/playmakers on offense.
The game might have been different if we had our grade A O-line and if we weren't so Adams concentric. But more than anything, Rodgers needed to embrace an offense that uses more than a favorite WR. He was defensed the same way that he has lost all the other big games. So will things change if Rodgers comes back?
Roadrunner23
February 02, 2022 at 07:47 am
MLF needs to be better at making halftime adjustments 🤔
dobber
February 02, 2022 at 09:09 am
I think the fact that they didn't have MVS available was a problem. He's burned the Niners the last couple times they played, and with the injuries the Niners had on the back end, he would've been a problem for them.
The Niners did the same thing to the Packers as they did to the Doughboys and the Rams...it's just that the Rams found a way to overcome it. Bottom line is that the Niners came into the playoffs playing their best ball and were exactly the kind of team (like the Packers in 2010) that rolls into the SB...didn't quite make it, but were damn close. It doesn't excuse the Packers for dropping a divisional round game that was there to be had, but the Niners were the hot team.
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 10:14 am
One big difference was Rams RT Havenstein did a good job blocking Bosa in their championship game. Also, after Higbee was injured Stafford found Blanton for 5 receptions, a TE who caught 4 passes during the regular season.
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 12:26 pm
So you are saying that Stafford knows how to use a TE :o)
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 03:51 pm
Maybe Rodgers is having vision problems and he should wear a pair of lg black rimmed glasses.
BirdDogUni
February 02, 2022 at 06:59 pm
Devante Vision... *It's a thing...
I saw it on the interwebs...
PhantomII
February 02, 2022 at 10:11 pm
AR takes the clock to zero, which rests the defense the maximum amount without calling a time-out. SF rotates their DL a lot, which also means they may not be highly conditioned, yet we do not no huddle in our own stadium and not allow them to rotate.
AR did what he has done in ALL playoff games....he gets pressured a little, gets rattled and wilts. If any QB can learn anything from T. Brady, it is just move the chains. Should a Coach call out "MISSED" open receivers to him...HELL YES...EVERY TIME IF THATS WHAT IT TAKES. Our Defense played their asses off. ST caused a 40 Yd plus return which was later 3 pts. A blocked 3 points for Crosby and the sin of sins blocked punt for SF only score. I believe any slightly above average QB would have faired better than our MVP. AR apparently needs a 4-6 second OL and a top 3 Defense and a ST that does not make a gaffe in order to function effectively in playoff games. I did not see Cobb prioritized. Lazard was catching the ball really well recently. I will say ML is horrid at adjusting in game with Adams doubled up and I do not remember Adams in motion and hitting the edges rolling.
Coldworld
February 02, 2022 at 11:01 am
I said before the game that we’d miss MVS, but we left a lot of open receivers untargeted too. It doesn’t matter how a receiver gets open. Go watch the film, there’s more points than needed out there.
The sad fact is that good teams have a recipe for defending Rodgers and Adams and it works all too well because the rest of our O dries up. We’ve seen it 3 times in a row in January. Neither LaFleur nor Rodgers seem able to overcome that. Both are culpable.
greengold
February 03, 2022 at 11:06 pm
The OL circus display is on MLF. STs circus is also on MLF.
Rodgers garbage is on Rodgers and needs to go. 11 years of big talk, and bigger drama. He’s an awful game manager with tunnel vision on what he wants only, anyone else be damned.
Get him outta here.
Love conquers all.
Roadrunner23
February 02, 2022 at 07:42 am
Well said on all points Al!
There is a MATRIX of things that will take place this off-season:
-Will the Packers finally hire a proven Special Teams Coach?
-Will Campbell be resigned
- Interesting they named a QB Assistant Coach without naming an actual QB coach, hmmm 🤔 waiting to see which QB will be here perhaps?
-Interesting they protected JJ Molson the Kicker on the Practice Squad all season 🤔 hmm
-Interesting that Hackett didn’t consider Getsy as his OC
-Now that the Bronco’s are going to have a new owner and are being sued for discrimination Will this kill the Aaron Rodgers trade?
-The Packers OL and RB are in great shape, the rest of the Offense is in a state of flux QB, TE, WR 🤔 hmm could they be going to a more run based Offense?
-Do the Packers franchise Adams?
-Do they extend Rodgers
The Domino’s will start falling in about 3 weeks!
Get your popcorn 🍿 ready!
jurp
February 02, 2022 at 08:49 am
I think the Broncos ownership change and the lawsuit may actually HELP us by forcing a trade for AR. As a Bronco, AR would bring excitement and hope for the future to the fans, help to cushion Hackett's first year or two as coach (ideally), and distract from the lawsuit.
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 10:17 am
Absolutely , and makes them an instant contender, especially if they also take Adams.
greengold
February 03, 2022 at 11:10 pm
For a Division Title. Nothing more. Sorry, Pete, but I just can’t see him changing his ways, and he’s not getting any younger.
WestCoastPackerBacker
February 02, 2022 at 11:02 am
I would hope the allegations in that lawsuit, if anywhere near the truth, would keep Rodgers from wanting anything to do with the Broncos. And why would Adams want to go to an organization facing those kind of allegations of discrimination?
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 03:53 pm
New ownership will be in place soon along with a completely new organizational makeup. Unless you're referring to the new Flores lawsuit.
croatpackfan
February 02, 2022 at 07:52 am
Nice overview Al, as always.
Regarding video and answer on the question asked by author, what we think (so basically what I think) I can give you my opinion. Is it written in the stone? No. Is it absolute truth? Very likely not! But I believe there is some important truth somewhere in my opinion.
Last 3 post seasons losses was product of all 3 phases in the Packers execution, except the last one, where we can say, if Packers won that last game it would be won by D, which played whole game absolutely on the SB level. Even if you take in the consideration that they played a lot of time in the 4 Q (because of many 3 and outs!). D allowed only 6 points to the opponent and no TD.
Special teams surrounded 7 points and cost Packers 3 on the offensive side of their play (block FG). SO ST mark out of 10 is 0!
Offense scored 7 points! For the divisional round game not "not enough", but unbelievably shocking. O mark out of 10 is 2! So lets say what's went wrong. As you noticed Aaron Rodgers was not playing for the team (avoiding throws to open catchers - WR, RB or TE), but for one player only - Davante Adams. That is truth, because only other player on the team that got more than 1 throw in his direction was Aaron Jones. You said that offense did not help Aaron Rodgers? Well, I thought he is HOF, maybe the best QB ever (by the claim of the author of the video). Do he really need a help? He is super human! I do not remember that Superman needed any help from others in his fights. But, I agree that picture made around AR is false. No one is super human. Not even Chuck Norris (pssst do not tell him I wrote this). So, he need help from his team mates. What help? He ignored them the whole f*cking game. And Packers scored TD in their first possession. At the time when AJ Dillon was pounding through SF D like the knife through salami. Where was AJ later in the game (before injury)? AR got everything in his hands and throws. And there is one thing you can find in those throws - Father Time started to have affect on him. We must not exclude his 2 repaired collarbones. You have to understand that healed injury can, and very often affect previously capable actions reducing efficacy of those actions. His muscle memory is not adapted to the "new normality". I believe he knows that, but he ignores it.
Not even to complain on OL - make complete mess of the OL which was stout at least all season, putting Turner on the LT he showed he can not play and keep Kelly on the RT is stupidity on special level! If you have Turner back, play him at his position! If you do not have options at LT, play the guy who played well whole season at the LT. You are playing against one of the top 5 DL. Do not change what worked well in the past!
Also there is the issue with "confidence"! You have one failure and you'll see no more ball from AR. That habit become stronger and stronger by time. What is the result in that? Well, WR and TE knows for the habit. So why do they bother themselves to run routes and be available when they will not get the ball anyhow. That is something that ruins team chemistry and the result of that is what you got in the last post season game this year!
Do you see some trends here. Last season NFCCG what D coordinator from Bucs did? He put away favorite target of AR (1st down double coverage, 2nd and 3rd down triple coverage) leaving a lot of open receivers in the end zone, on the line or near the end zone (one very obvious was 3rd down open Lazard 1 yard in front of end zone, alone like unwanted kid! This year SF DC shut down the favorite target for the most of the game. People in NFL already knows how "clever and intelligent" person like AR handle the pressure - goes only to favorite target!
Also, it is worth mentioning that, by admission of MLF, game planning includes actively AR. Some of those plays might be called by side line, but that was AR ideas incorporated in game plan.
I say completely confident that only God (if he is interested in) can help Packers if they renew AR contract and sign DA by pushing the cap money further in the time. That kind of act will cripple Packers after AR will be out. Packers will be with reduced cap for long period by not having the balls (not guts) to make necessary changes and starting partial rebuilding to go back on the track of winning.
If they brought back AR I will surely hope that I am completely wrong.
mrtundra
February 02, 2022 at 08:04 am
Regarding the how empty the WR room could be after FA: Maybe it wouldn't be so empty had ARod thrown to any WR, not named Davante, when they were open and when Davante was not. Lazard, ESB, MVS, Cobb have all been mentioned as being lost to FA or a trade, at some point this off season. Hardly any of them were thrown to in the SF game. That leaves our WR room with Amari Rodgers, a few TEs, plus our RBs, who can act as receivers. Don't forget that Davante still needs to be re-signed/extended, or he will also leave via FA, as well.
As for Crosby staying with the Packers: It's time to move on. Crosby's woes were definitely affected by the Long Snapper and the holder, this season. He even struggled kicking the ball out of the end zone on kick offs. We also need a bigger guy at LS, who can block and who can hike the ball to the correct side of the holder. At the holder position. I think we need to get our back up QB to hold for our kicker, like they used to do when Favre was our QB and Doug Pederson held the ball for our kicker.
SanLobo
February 02, 2022 at 08:05 am
I agree, brutal cold in Lambeau does not seem to give GB an advantage and our record in temps in the teens tends to bear that out.
When I served in Alaska we looked at the impact of extreme cold on both equipment and people. There are physiological changes that make it harder for humans to execute fine motor skills. Everything gets harder in the extreme cold and any offense is going to struggle in those conditions but especially the more complex ones.
While there is no place more fun for a fan than Lambeau, I’m not convinced it gives the Packers any real advantage when the temps drop below 20 degrees.
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 08:18 am
I agree with your comments. The thing that gets me is that a real turf, cold weather team is usually a physical team - a grinder team. We are finesse team without the speed of a finesse team. What is the advantage in playing our downfield passing game in an environment that begs for Ryan Grant, Eddie Lacy or AJ Dillon.
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 10:21 am
It especially hampers older QBs not named Brady.
croatpackfan
February 02, 2022 at 10:47 am
Pete, 1000 upvotes for your claim...
Johnblood27
February 03, 2022 at 08:51 am
and it helps QB named Kaepernick
HarryHodag
February 02, 2022 at 08:55 am
Lots of changes for next year. I was listening to some dopes on sport talk radio yesterday talking about Mason Crosby, saying the Packers would need to use a draft pick on a new kicker. The 'experts' forgot(heavy sigh) that the Packers have had a kicker on the practice squad all season, J.J. Molson. Some folks said he did well from what they saw.
On Rodgers: he got the team to where they were, but literally lost his cool(in the cold) at Lambeau. Wide open receivers all over but he kept trying to drill the ball to Adams. That relationship might well have become toxic to the team. But there's a pretty good chance most of the current crop of receivers could be gone via cuts or free agency. Not difficult to see what the priorities are in the draft. And Aaron, that is a rebuild.
Duneslick
February 02, 2022 at 12:30 pm
You notice that almost every time he stopped the film the receiver he thought he should throw to was not looking at rodgers for the pass yet. Also he mentioned that the biggest failure of the game was receivers not getting open. I do think they should trade rodgers and not sign adams because of the salary cap implications this year and in the future. They simply will not be near as good of a team next year if they keep them and trading rodgers will shorten the time until they rebuild back to a playoff team
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 01:08 pm
...You notice that almost every time he stopped the film the receiver he thought he should throw to was not looking at rodgers for the pass yet....
Thank you. Either the guy wasn't looking for the pass and/or the defense was already closing the gap. We have a fairly slow set of WR and TEs. Checking down to someone 2 yards off the line of scrimmage within 2 seconds of the snap isn't/shouldn't be the play - especially if the guy isn't going to make the defender miss.
Thegreatreynoldo
February 03, 2022 at 05:18 am
I agree that this narrative that AR has Adams-vision is overblown, while also agreeing that the phenomenon exists.
SanLobo
February 03, 2022 at 01:14 pm
Thanks TGR. Rodgers clearly favors Adams, and he has said as much on multiple occasions. But I agree the narrative that he has Adams vision and just doesn’t throw to wide open receivers is overblown. I’ve gone back a looked at some past plays with “wide open” receivers and lots of factors come into play. Receivers may be open, but Rodgers cannot see them as he is running the opposite direction because of pressure. Or a reviewer is open, but there are two lineman in his face and there is a significant likelihood the pass will be blocked. Or sometimes the receiver is only open for a moment and there’s no way the ball can get there before a defender closes. All that said, he blew that 3d down in the 9ers game throwing to Adams. But the narrative is a bit overblown.
Irish_Cheesehead
February 03, 2022 at 05:45 am
The ball is often thrown to a receiver before they look for the ball. Happens all the time when the QB and receiver are in sync.
Duneslick
February 02, 2022 at 12:30 pm
You notice that almost every time he stopped the film the receiver he thought he should throw to was not looking at rodgers for the pass yet. Also he mentioned that the biggest failure of the game was receivers not getting open. I do think they should trade rodgers and not sign adams because of the salary cap implications this year and in the future. They simply will not be near as good of a team next year if they keep them and trading rodgers will shorten the time until they rebuild back to a playoff team
dobber
February 03, 2022 at 08:10 am
"saying the Packers would need to use a draft pick on a new kicker."
Agreed on the silliness of this. Aside from Molson already being first in line to succeed Crosby, the math doesn't work out. 32 teams in the league and all of them have a kicker...and many a second on the PS (especially during covid). How many K are drafted each year? Maybe two? Kickers are mostly grown, not drafted.
jannesbjornson
February 03, 2022 at 08:05 pm
Pick up two or three Kickers and let the best man win the job. If Molson was outstanding he would have at least delivered the ball on kickoffs.
jurp
February 02, 2022 at 08:57 am
The Packers don't need a QB coach if The Choker is coming back, because he's simply the best QB ever and doesn't need any effing coaching; in fact, his intelligence is so far above everyone else's that he's teaching the Head Coach how to run the offense and the GM how to find players. The Assistant QB Coach is only there to get The Choker his coffee and dry cleaning. \sarc
As you can tell, I am SO sick of this bullshit...
Doing the same thing with the same Tool and expecting different results is, well, insane. And yes, I meant "tool" in both the standard and slang definitions.
stockholder
February 02, 2022 at 09:19 am
This doesn't look like professional writing to me. Go hug your bear and chill. There are other teams you can support.
jurp
February 02, 2022 at 09:43 am
Fail to recognize sarcasm, do you? The \sarc should've been a dead giveaway. Not a Surprise. given your history of. Posts with poor. Grammar. and terrible Punctuation.
And I don't own a bear, so I cannot hug one.
croatpackfan
February 02, 2022 at 10:51 am
I think you'll support other team next season. Sell them story how good AR is, when he choke again...
dobber
February 03, 2022 at 08:11 am
"The Packers don't need a QB coach if The Choker is coming back"
No...they'll need a marriage counselor.
greengold
February 03, 2022 at 11:16 pm
Style points awarded.
dobber
February 02, 2022 at 09:33 am
"Coaching Carousel " -- LaF needs to look at this as an opportunity. When you clear out this many people, you have that chance to reinvent what you do. Hopefully his moves change the dynamic around him in positive ways. Successful teams are always having assistants poached and replaced, but this is really the first significant overhaul on the offensive side of the ball. This is where we find out how good LaF really is.
"WR/Cobb" -- I feel for Cobb. He's by all accounts a decent guy. Still, ARod's pressure to bring him back put him at the center of this bizarre power struggle/rub it in your face play to appease the QB and eventually did nothing but show both that Cobb was released for a reason and that ARod doesn't use his tools. Cobb's a goner...they can't keep a guy who costs that much and makes that little impact. We'll see how they repopulate the WR room, but Lazard should definitely be back and management has an odd fascination with ESB, so I expect him to be back on a low money deal. MVS is the enigma who's living on the edge of value/cost. After that? I expect pass catchers,-- WR, TE, and RBs --to be numerous on the list of new Packers when the 2022 draft ends.
"Crosby" -- It's time to move on, and the cap certainly dictates that an expensive kicker is a luxury the Packers (especially in a rebuild) can't keep. I wouldn't be surprised, given Crosby's relationship with 12, if his plans depend on what happens to ARod. Wouldn't be surprised if he retires. Surefire Packer HOF'er.
"Deguara" -- Sorry, but I'm seeing a lot of Richard Rodgers in this guy, at least in the passing game. I'm hoping he's a better blocker and that he'll continue to grow as a receiver--last year's injury and abbreviated camp made this really his rookie year. With that in mind, people lose sight of the fact that RichRod was the Packers' second leading receiver in that ugly 2015 season in terms of catches and tied for the team lead in TDs and is still knocking around the league.
Coldworld
February 02, 2022 at 09:47 am
He’s faster than Rodgers and a lot better blocker. The fact remains that Rodgers did have great hands. But great hands and no targets equals no catches too while even bad NFL catchers catch one in two.
Coldworld
February 02, 2022 at 09:47 am
He’s faster than Rodgers and a lot better blocker. The fact remains that Rodgers did have great hands. But great hands and no targets equals no catches too while even bad NFL catchers catch one in two.
jeremyjjbrown
February 02, 2022 at 10:11 am
Yeah RR couldn't outrun anyone and wasn't nearly as versatile. Bad comparison.
Thegreatreynoldo
February 03, 2022 at 05:37 am
AR forced a lot of beautiful passes into very tight windows to Richard Rodgers in that 2015 year to which you allude. Nelson was injured, Cobb led the team and the league in drops (per McGinn) and Adams was dropping plenty of passes as well. Rodgers did manage 345 receiving yards in another season, but otherwise has remained in the league as a slow TE who can catch and is no longer a complete liability as a blocker.
LaFleur has his work cut out for him to get that illusion of complexity back. The OL didn't help him in that regard, with everyone having to chip before running a route. AR getting the ball out of his hand in a career shortest amount of time made the OL look better than it was. Bakh and Jenkins should improve the OL.
Turophile
February 02, 2022 at 12:30 pm
Very apt David Bowie quote for your headline, Al
Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes
Turn and face the strange
Ch-ch-changes
Don't want to be a richer man
Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes
Turn and face the strange
Ch-ch-changes
There's gonna have to be a different man
So many good talking points. I'd much rather see a team whose coaches are respected and in demand than one who no other team has any interest in, even though it's tough when they move on to higher things. Interestingly, I did look at the Packers pro-personnel guys and some of the scouts. The director and two co-directors of Pro Personnel have 14, 9 and 18 years with the Packers. Two of their scouts (Seale and Mock) have 26 and 25 years. Now there is continuity for you.
I do think that Crosby will be among the missing next year, along with Z.Smith, Cobb, Adams (unless tagged and retained), MVS, possibly Rodgers himself and numerous other more painful losses. What will really hurt is if the stellar bargain-price players of 2021 have to go. Losing Campbell and Douglas and P.Smith (who isn't cheap but did take a pay cut) are three guys who the Packers will really miss. I hope they can find a way to keep as many as possible. I'd also like to see RT Turner back. The return of Alexander next year, plus the play of Stokes and Douglas (if he is retained) make King's position on the team very shaky.
As you say the team will look rather different next year............even more so if Rodgers ends up elsewhere. Basically, you toss your tokens up in the air, see where they all land and attempt to read the future in how they fall. Your guess is as good as mine.
Coldworld
February 02, 2022 at 09:51 am
Since no one has picked up on your comment on LaFleur and his ST acumen, I will. LaFleur, is I believe, lacking knowledge, experience and perspective. LaFleur on Drayton a year ago. It is telling:
“I really think he can elevate our level of play in that area,” LaFleur said. “Guy that’s been here for a while now. Had the opportunity to interview him in the first go-around, was super impressed with him, I just didn’t know a whole lot around him. After being around him for two years now, I think it was just a matter of time before he got one of these other opportunities that presented itself outside of this building. Did not want to lose a guy like Mo Drayton.”
His predecessor, Mennenga had only one year of experience as a college STC at Vanderbilt, but had worked with Pettine not LaFleur. It suggests that LaFleur really doesn’t have a real knowledge of or understanding of what is required at STC.
Gute or Murphy, preferably both, need to make sure we hire an accomplished NFL STC, or we will be back in the same boat based on the above. I have a bad feeling that the delay in firing may have been due to LaFleur trying to hold on to him
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 10:37 am
I think that you point out another reality about overall coaching - beyond failures of this game. We need to face the fact that we are training a young, inexperienced head coach. LaFleur has made mistakes that have cost us games and also contribute to chronic weak spots on this team. LaFleur will need to step up his game if this team is to ever advance to the next level. His failure to control Rodgers needs to be addressed if they are going to bring back Rodgers
Guam
February 02, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Could any coach (not named Lombardi) have controlled Rodgers given Rodgers' age and experience at that point? Rodgers had just gotten a very experienced coach (MM) fired. What would make you believe LaFleur ever had a chance to control Rodgers?
One of the reasons I have been a big fan of trading Rodgers is to give MLF a chance to actually run his own offense which will never happen as long as Rodgers is QB1 in Green Bay. I am not sold on MLF as a head coach yet despite his gaudy regular season record, but I am also convinced MLF was handed a nearly intractable situation when he inherited Rodgers.
dobber
February 03, 2022 at 08:15 am
"Could any coach (not named Lombardi) have controlled Rodgers given Rodgers' age and experience at that point?"
I can think of a guy who coached the Packers in the 1990s who--in his prime--might have been able to engender enough respect from #12 to keep him in line.
Oppy
February 02, 2022 at 09:14 pm
Nobody in the NFL can control Rodgers.
stockholder
February 02, 2022 at 12:08 pm
I supported MM. You guys still aren't happy. You'll never be happy. MLF was a good hire.
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 12:19 pm
This not about being happy or supporting a horse. If Matt Lafleur wants to fashion a team that will win on the ground, in the cold and through a varied passing game THEN he needs to take control. If he isn't going to get Aaron Rodgers to play his system he needs to find someone who will. No doubt he is learning that and other lessons as these seasons roll bye. I too like LaFleur.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 07:54 pm
Tell Gutedkunst that idea, it may be novel to him? Lewis is OK for fill -in duty , but where was the TE drafted last year? Keep feeding the Sharks. Tonyan was always a WR in TEs clothing. He may be a fair-value signing due to his injury? Gotta spring for the real deal.
dobber
February 03, 2022 at 08:19 am
A Kittle-type TE would be a boon for this team. Blocks well, runs well. High-energy, tenacious, outstanding player (obviously).
jannesbjornson
February 03, 2022 at 08:07 pm
The guy loves football.
Grandfathered
February 03, 2022 at 09:00 pm
Matt "I like em" LaFleur, or MILF for short. He needs to take control and find a QB that fits his system. Love might be a guy who can make these outlet passes, and it should be a few years before he turns into a diva.
Coldworld
February 03, 2022 at 08:05 am
The jury is very much out on LaFleur in my view. Nice scheme but tactically naïf, suspect personnel management and, as yet, an inability to learn from past mistakes and adjust in games.
jannesbjornson
February 03, 2022 at 08:08 pm
Two years in a row leaves one a bit skeptical.
Guam
February 02, 2022 at 12:59 pm
CW: I would note that LaFleur wanted to hire Rizzi during his first attempt at hiring a special team's coach. That got shot down by Ball and Gute. What message do you suppose a young, first year coach took from that episode?
I am not absolving MLF of Mennenga and Drayton, but the FO is not clean in this matter either. And now I don't trust either one to hire a good special team's coach. They need an "all hands" meeting on what they want the Packer special teams to look like. Otherwise this history will repeat itself.
Coldworld
February 03, 2022 at 08:10 am
I heard that Gute lobbied for Rizzi, it was Murphy backing Ball.
That said, if a HC wants to win on the field he has to have the strength of personality and conviction to continue to fight off the field. If LaFleur was that easily cowed then we do have a problem.
There is a continuum between Rizzi and Drayton (whom LaFleur claimed he feared losing as a rising star this time last year). I’m not buying it on that level either.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 07:26 pm
They made sure LaFleur Didn't get His Guy, Rizzi, the first go round. LaFleur knows the business. The question is, do the the other two clowns from the ice rink committee.
BruceC1960
February 02, 2022 at 09:56 am
Good job as always Al. Can we conclude now that AR is not a cold weather QB to go along with struggles in FL and CA? Maybe he needs to go to the Colts?
A lot has been made about the Degaura drop. Should he have caught it, yes. Should the throw have been better, yes. However, I saw Kittle and Kupp both with big drops in the playoffs. The only difference is their QB didn’t phase them out after it happened.
Coldworld
February 02, 2022 at 10:56 am
It tends to be overlooked that catchers are helped by early and regular action in games. It’s harder to be out there untargeted and be fully effective when suddenly targeted, particularly in very cold conditions.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 07:45 pm
All I know from watching Pro Football @ Lambeau Field since 1960 is that Big TEs with big bodies and big mitts catch the ball more reliably than 4.3 light weights in the Arctic . Lewis with the fumble was a momentum breaker, but keep feeding him and Deguara and Davis. Dafney out of the backfield to move their LBs 1:1. Jones destroyed them on the wheel routes, but the Director wanted a Hollywood production. When Dillon went down, next man up is Taylor @ 225#. Why wasn't he used?
BAMABADGER
February 02, 2022 at 10:21 am
Thanks for the film breakdown of the AR debacle two weekends ago. Those play reviews amplify why AR will never be the GOAT. Time to move on.
13TimeChamps
February 02, 2022 at 10:32 am
Somewhat off topic, but....
I'm hearing, quite often, on this site posters wanting to tag Adams, then trade both he and Rodgers to the same team, with Denver seemingly the preferred destination. Without getting into the cap ramifications of doing a tag/trade, and how that could blow up in GBs face, what I wonder is...
After seeing GB secure the top seed in the playoffs the last two years...then seeing them losing both years because of Rodgers forcing the ball to Adams when he clearly had other options...would a new team really want that happening to them in the playoffs? With Denver specifically with Hackett there? It screams of more of the same to me.
It's hard to see Rodgers changing his stripes at this point in his career, but hopefully that will be another team's problem.
Trade AR12...it's time to move on and try something new. Let DA17 walk in FA, so some other team can pay him the 25-30 million he is seeking. As so many others have said before me...rip the bandage off.
croatpackfan
February 02, 2022 at 11:02 am
As we can not give Davante what he wants, I believe it would be fair to him to go and to get his future financially secure. It will be through respect for everything what he did for Packers. Looking long run this will be good for Packers, as they will show they respect their players and their contribution to team success.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 08:21 pm
He's gone. Just like the 49rs had to let Jerry Rice move on. `
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 12:08 pm
Denver would love that because of their recent mediocrity.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 09:05 pm
They will stay that way for a while.
Handsback
February 02, 2022 at 10:37 am
Coldworld and others have rightly pointed out that teams know how to defend Rodgers with a pass rush and umbrella coverage. He reverts to Adams and few others. Remember after the game he admitted he focused too much on Adams. So does that make him a bad QB? NO, but it calls into question his capability to make it to another SB since the teams that make it this far all have decent pass rush capabilities and DBs.
IMHO, Green Bay needs to TRAIN a QB to work with MLF's system. Run properly, they can do great things especially in the weather of Green Bay. Dillion and Jones make a formidable duo that can set up the pass. What doesn't work in Green Bay, esp. home games in the playoffs, is a passing attack that is looking downfield for that 10-15 yard completion. Takes too much time in the pocket against a decent pass rush, skill set degrades during cold temps ie. what works in a dome doesn't work as often in cold weather venues.
Will or can Rodgers change? History says no. Green Bay needs to trade maybe one of the best QB in NFL history so they can get the team they need and allow Rodgers another chance in a warmer climate.
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 11:18 am
...Green Bay needs to TRAIN a QB to work with MLF's system. Run properly, they can do great things especially in the weather of Green Bay. Dillion and Jones make a formidable duo that can set up the pass. What doesn't work in Green Bay, esp. home games in the playoffs, is a passing attack that is looking downfield for that 10-15 yard completion...
I will change Green Bay to LaFleur needs to train a QB... What if the coaching staff thought about tuning up the O-line to run over SF last weekend and that was not rec'd with enthusiasm by our QB? Putting in Nijman and moving Turner to RG beside Kelly might have been a solid line for pounding the ball - if you wanted to go that route. Or, you could just go with the downfield passing game behind a patchwork line and see if works. I doubt that anything focused on the run game could have gotten by Rodgers approval.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 08:59 pm
Not starting Nijman was an insult to his face after his journeyman's season of solid play. If I was his agent, I would request a trade. Stategically, unacceptable; synergetically unsound.
Dragon5
February 02, 2022 at 11:58 am
My wish for the divisional game was that we were the more physical team--wishful thinking alright.
Haven't seen mention Rodgers played much like year 1 in LaFleur's system; refused check downs. Why did he revert to this? I don't know how you can say it other than arrogance over moving the chains (winning), given Rodgers experience. Brady is the GOAT because of checkdowns, PERIOD....White, Burkhead, Lewis, Woodhead just off the top of my head; out of 22 years he had 3 years in his career where he was allowed to air it out with high octane aerial weapons...and has 7 'chips to show for it.
Sidenote: Washington Commanders? That's a PR fail. Washington Swamp has a nice ring to it lol.
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 12:09 pm
Washington Shitstormers
Coldworld
February 03, 2022 at 08:15 am
Washington Yawn
Coldworld
February 03, 2022 at 08:16 am
Washington Sniders
jurp
February 02, 2022 at 01:20 pm
Yeah, I agree that Commanders is lame, but I understand why they went with it - but there were so many other possibilities out there!
Going with the literal swamp motif: Washington Gators, Washington Water Moccasins (which I personally think would've been an awesome alliterative name), Washington Mosquitos.
Going with the figurative swamp motif: Washington Grifters, Washington Bribers, Washington Weasels (another great alliterative name), Washington Takers, D.C. Dumpster Fires, Washington Scammers, Washington Swindlers, and many, many more...
BirdDogUni
February 02, 2022 at 07:45 pm
There hasn't been a real Commander in D.C. since 1782...
SMH
BirdDogUni
February 02, 2022 at 10:01 pm
I see I have one loyal follower... : P
(Make that two...) Lol
Coldworld
February 03, 2022 at 08:18 am
Long live King George. To be fair though, DC was a healthier swamp then.
Packers0808
February 02, 2022 at 10:44 am
It seems what has happened Rodgers still has value, just none left in Green Bay. He has out done his welcome thinking he is the all that is needed. He AIN'T!
Razer
February 02, 2022 at 10:46 am
Thanks AL for giving us a forum to chew through these things. Don't like how it ended up this year but I enjoyed bantering with fellow Packer faithful. Keep up the good work and prompting us to share laughs and ideas.
PeteK
February 02, 2022 at 11:13 am
-Interesting that Niners left Adams single covered in the 1st quarter and then doubled him later, were they baiting Rodgers. Probably not.
- Initially it does seem strange that MLF would have to research ST personnel usage. However, he never coached ST and it means a more hands on approach on his part.
-If we can manage to trade Adams , I'm sure a non rookie WR will be coming back Ex. Denver Jeudy, I would even be happy with Hamler, who could be a duel threat WR.
-Sadly, that could have been a breakout game for Dequara. I don't think he has the dropsies because the TD drop earlier the season was a tough catch. However, I would want Fant in a trade with Denver or Mcbride from Colorado St who is a good receiver and BLOCKER.
jannesbjornson
February 02, 2022 at 09:13 pm
He's the HC, not the cheerleading committee. He has a guy in the booth to call the Game. He has to be the executor of the Game in Real Time. Side-stepping the obvious Sp team flaws early in this season was a Fail.
Three Phases of Football, every Play Matters.
albert999
February 02, 2022 at 12:21 pm
Unbelievable how he doesn’t see all of these if he’s so good and so,smart?
He should absolutely watch this video montage….but he won’t and I believe we should draft a new big time QB
albert999
February 02, 2022 at 12:32 pm
Great job Al
Alberta_Packer
February 02, 2022 at 12:33 pm
So far a little light housekeeping by the FO - before the heavy lifting (I'm assuming).
I cannot imagine how Gutekunst can convincingly rationalize the return of Rodgers - given his recent history of failures plus the onerous salary cap situation. This would be the very definition of throwing good money after bad. Yet, ironically, Rodgers can still be GBs best opportunity for another SB Championship - by sparking a re-tool - in trading him for draft picks +/ players +/prospects.
“In a chronically leaking boat, energy devoted to changing vessels is more productive than energy devoted to patching leaks.” —Warren Buffett
splitpea1
February 02, 2022 at 12:55 pm
Does Flores know something about special teams? Check out the formation and play he used to score a second quarter TD against the Eagles in 2019.
Huh?-- MLF should have been studying how other teams handle their special teams all season long. And he should have acquired more knowledge of them earlier in his tenure. It's hard to believe, and I would think unusual, that MLF and the rest of the organization haven't talked to or observed other coaches in this regard. A lot of coaches are pals, aren't they?
New kicks: Yes, it's time. Special teams is a great place to go all in on a rebuild. Mason has been a stellar Packer.
The video: AR takes the game plan, crumples it up and throws it in the wastebasket; no need for it when you've already decided you're mainly going to trusted favorites from the past. To hell with those new guys, right?
Alberta_Packer
February 02, 2022 at 02:21 pm
Well Flores certainly knows something about litigation. Unfortunately he may now be radioactive because of his challenge to the status quo.
splitpea1
February 02, 2022 at 03:04 pm
Yeah, I saw that.... To be honest, though, I would have been surprised if the Packers would even considered a special teams coach that really challenged the players; I think they're probably just looking for quiet competence and someone who won't potentially rock the boat.
Coldworld
February 03, 2022 at 08:20 am
If you are afraid of competence and independent ideas, you are not a leader to follow.
splitpea1
February 03, 2022 at 02:29 pm
Sounds good, but why tell me? The front office needs to know.
jannesbjornson
February 03, 2022 at 08:19 pm
Prepare the siege cannon.
greengold
February 03, 2022 at 07:43 am
All of this is pristine, Al, except for the video showing all the open WRs/TEs Aaron Rodgers ignored. Not that it’s not a great video, but… the pain. The pain is real, to the point I immediately deleted my recording after the game because of that stupidity displayed by Aaron Rodgers. We all saw it and know it, and it’s too soon… for me anyway. (Now, imagine a half-hearted LOL that slowly deflates like a balloon, returning to a sad face…)
What a complete cluster of an entire year.
Despite the QB drama fueled 2021 season disintegration, Gutekunst uncovered some real gems in Campbell and SUUUUL! Add in what I found to be evidence of incredible scouting under Gutekunst, namely at OL, along with clear positives in player development there under Stenavich. Many young players showed marked improvement, or surprising NFL caliber abilities to step in as rookies and take starting snaps.
That’s good scouting, and coaching. Hats off here to Joe Barry as well.
ST: that one a major head scratcher. Let’s not forget LaFleur wanted to hire the best in the business, only to be cut down in that choice by a cheap Mark Murphy, and another of his idiotic decisions. Now, LaFleur must find an answer, and 2020/2021 seasons (and so many more) prove STs indeed DO MATTER.
There’s always been 3 phases to the game of football: Offense, Defense and Special Teams. Champions are good-great in all three. Period.
Speaking of… thank you Mason Crosby! Commendable play for our Packers an understatement, but now it clearly is time to find a new kicker.
Did anybody deep down inside think Cobb was going to be any better than the last time he wore the green & gold? He was slowing down then, often injured, and what we saw this season was no surprise, as much as I love the guy. Randall, you should have gotten a ring or two in GB years ago… thank you too for your many great contributions as a Green Bay Packer.
I’m looking forward to what I think may be an exciting and surprisingly successful 2022 season. A man can dream…
Thanks for another great piece, Al.
pops2256
February 03, 2022 at 03:26 pm
Nobody has mentioned the poor coaching job done by Lafluer in the SF game. Priority one needed to be protect Rogers but Bosa and Armistade both had clean hits on him. It was a feast or famine game on offense. Either Rogers and Adams were going to have big day or Bosa and Armistade were going to have a big day. We know what happened and Lafluer didn't do what was necessary in a do or die game. He tampered with the O line and made it worse. He needed to go with the guys who won them 13 games during the season. I know that the O line situation was complex but the HC is being payed the big bucks to make sure he they have the right players on the field at all times. With two weeks to prepare he did nothing to bolster the special teams which allowed a blocked field and a blocked punt. Harsh inditement but I feel that although SF was really good GB had more talent overall and should have been able to win this one at home.