Healing As A Packers Fan
It's been a week since the Packers were unceremoniously dumped from a very promising playoff run... but the sting is still fresh. So what should we do?
By BruceIrons
Just a week ago, we felt certain that this was the Packers year.
The Packers had overcome so much throughout the season - losing players to injury, facing a tough schedule, and no shortage of off-field drama - but still found a way to win 13 games (again) and secure the #1 seed (again).
Then, with a playoff bye, the Packer activated nearly every injured player on the team. They had the strongest roster in the field. They accomplished the most in the season. This year, that started with such turmoil and uncertainty, was clearly going to end with a Lombardi trophy and silence all the critics.
The weather even cooperated in the playoffs, dropping to single digit windchills and dumping second-half snow on a warm weather team with an injured quarterback that had never even thrown a pass in the cold.
And the defense finally dominated a playoff game. They brought attitude and energy and shut down the opposition.
But it wasn't enough.
There's plenty of ways to explain it, plenty of plays that could have been the difference in the game. I won't rehash them and analyze them anymore. That's been done enough. We've been hurt enough.
Now, it's time to heal.
We should be good at this by now, we've had enough practice. So why is it still so hard? Why does it hurt just as much every time it happens?
Because we see ourselves as more than spectators.
We put a lot of time, energy, and emotion into watching, studying, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers.
And when it doesn't work out, it hurts.
So what can we do?
Let go.
We don't have any control over this. We can't control the outcome. We have to remind ourselves that football is just our entertainment. It's like a movie. We get to watch, but we can't control the outcome.
But, unlike movies, we can't always have a happy ending. No team can. There are 31 teams trying to stop our Green Bay Packers and we have to remember that the odds of winning the Super Bowl, even for the favorite, are low.
We can't hinge our happiness as fans on titles.
Mike Holmgren often reminded his players to enjoy the journey. That's what we have to do.
I'm going to hold on to a lot of great memories from this season.
I'm going to remember September, when the Packers came out stale. Facing doubts, they slowly gained momentum and then rattled off 7 wins in a row.
Along the way, we got to see an amazing last second win at San Francisco, a thrilling back-and-forth overtime comeback at Cincinnati, and then, on a short week, they travelled west, missing what seemed like half the roster, and upset the last remaining undefeated team with an incredible last-gasp interception in the end zone.
That was the game where Rasul Douglas etched his name into Packers lore and started an incredible journey from practice squad cast-off to Pro Bowl caliber corner. De'Vondre Campbell went one better. He joined the team in the final death rattle of free agency, then become the Packers first All Pro inside linebacker in most of our lifetimes. Randall Cobb took a different route, joining the team via a late trade to come play with his friends again. I'll never forget the misty-eyed look on his face when he came back to take the field as a Packer again.
I'll remember AJ Dillon plowing through the Vikings for 2 touchdowns, pushing and carrying multiple defenders across the goal line. I'll remember Allen Lazard falling down to double-catch a touchdown before taking a bow in Detroit. I'll remember Rasul Douglas running a pick back to the end zone while Justin Fields shook his head. I'll remember Josiah Deguara slicing through the Lions defense. I'll remember Davante Adams elevating between three defenders, spinning 360 degrees in the air, seeming to float while he effortlessly grabbed the ball, and set up a game winning field goal. I'll remember a ton of amazing throws by Aaron Rodgers, but more than anything, I'll probably remember him spiking the ball and punching the air, fully confident in knowing that Mason Crosby was going to win the game.
Those are incredible stories and fantastic memories.
A lot of teams don't give their fans that many great memories in one season.
We are lucky.
And we got to spank the Bears a couple times to sweep them for the third year in a row!
Were there bad memories, too?
Sure, there always are.
But like any successful and rewarding relationship, we have to remember the good times and forget about the bad.
That's what I'm trying to do.
I hope you do, too.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
Bruce Irons has played, coached, and studied football for decades. Best-selling author of books such as A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Draft, A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Salary Cap, and A Fan's Guide To NFL Free Agency Hits And Misses, Bruce contributes to CheeseHeadTV and PackersForTheWin.com.
Follow Bruce Irons on Twitter at @BruceIronsNFL.
__________________________
Comments (137)
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 09:17 am
To heal takes time and done evidence that the team has learned from the experience. Right now it’s too soon and nothing to suggest they aren’t going to compound their errors.
Bearmeat
January 30, 2022 at 11:49 am
And by that, do you mean bringing back 12?
If so, I 100% agree. We need a full rebuild.
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 12:11 pm
A big chunk of that rebuild is already underway.
Johnblood27
January 30, 2022 at 12:49 pm
the decision on 12 is certainly a big part.
For healing my first thought is getting rid of Drayton and hiring a competent outsider as ST coach.
That is 1st item on priority list for healing.
bjkdad44
January 30, 2022 at 01:58 pm
Maybe not a full one!
Bure9620
January 30, 2022 at 03:11 pm
The ultimate error would be extending Aaron Rodgers, if this is done they have not learned from their errors.
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 06:38 pm
It tells you the people in charge are more concerned with winning 10 games for each of the next couple years--getting a division title or two--and keeping their jobs than they are at trying to find a way to be a SB contender again.
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 06:46 pm
Keeping Adams too would be even more telling. Mortgage the future for another last dance with key pieces missing and a lot of youth.
Swisch
January 31, 2022 at 10:56 am
It would help the healing if management said something like: "There have been a lot of great moments for the Packers with Aaron Rodgers over the years, but it's time to move on."
Please, just let it end as gracefully as possible.
I can't help but wonder how much the arrogance of Rodgers has infected this Packers team in recent seasons.
It seems everyone from the GM to the ball boy is afraid to sneeze without offending him.
I'm tired of all the concern about how this or that decision is going to affect the mood of our egotistical quarterback.
That's no way to win a Super Bowl, or even to enjoy the regular season.
P.S. If our management doesn't get this by now, I'm concerned about the competency of our management.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
January 30, 2022 at 12:16 pm
Agreed Swisch!
Tundraboy
January 30, 2022 at 07:20 pm
Agree as well.
Gopack12
January 30, 2022 at 12:16 pm
Thankfully our front office is a lot smarter than you. They have clearly stated that their number one priority is to extend Rogers and keep him in Green Bay for the remainder of his career. This gives the Packers the best chance to win and keeps us in contention for the Super Bowl title for the for seeable future. If he goes to to Denver they become an instant Super Bowl favorite and the Packers chances to even make the playoffs become remote at best. And this is what you geniuses want. I love the fact that some of you folks said it was literally impossible for the Packers to resign Rogers from a salary cap perspective, it’s become obvious Russ Ball disagrees with you.
Spiker
January 30, 2022 at 12:24 pm
I would say that they are saying they want the ego back so he doesn't go all over social media to bark about how badly he is mistreated. I realize we won't win as much but we sure as hell don't win in the playoffs with him, too damned focused on his buddy Adams and not looking and taking what's there. Retaining that asshat is not going to be good for the team.
jurp
January 30, 2022 at 05:24 pm
I gave up on the Brewers when MLB cancelled the World Series; this was made much easier due to the rent-a-player nature of baseball and the fact that ice fishing contains more action than the average MLB game. I will take a break from the Packers if we re-sign Rodgers; I'm sick to death of heartbreak in January.
In "nice story" news, the Bengals are in the Super Bowl; as a passive Bengals fan since the 1980s, I finally have a reason to watch the game.
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 05:41 pm
I would wait to see how much damage they do to the cap. I can stomach a season based on denial of reality, but not one that costs us the ability to recover for 3 years. Which I fear retaining Rodgers and Adams will inevitably do. In that scenario I’d lose faith in the FO completely, particularly LaFleur and his Champion Murphy. Gute has said nothing at this point.
Swisch
January 30, 2022 at 05:56 pm
I like it when teams from the cities of the Rust Belt like Cincinnati make good, and when teams that have been down for a long time like Cincinnati make good.
What an absolute stunner!
How did the Bengals hold the Chiefs to three points in the second half and overtime?
Football is great!
ironman3169
January 31, 2022 at 03:56 am
Have you not noticed that 12 is a shrinking violet in the face of the biggest games? Sure, go to Denver!
Now they can make the playoffs every year and fail horribly because their supposed great offense can’t put up points!
Starrbrite
January 30, 2022 at 01:01 pm
Well Swisch, as you know, we disagree on this. But it appears the majority definitely agrees with you.
Swisch
January 30, 2022 at 04:40 pm
I'm glad to get different opinions for fun discussions, Starrbrite.
These questions about football don't usually have a right or wrong answer. It's not 2+2=4.
***
P.S. With Tom Brady now retired, I still consider Bart Starr the greatest of all time at quarterback.
I wonder how long Brady would have lasted in the 1960s without all of the rules protecting quarterbacks, and Butkus and Huff and Deacon Jones coming to crumple him.
See, there I go again with the debating; I can hardly help myself ;-).
***
Have a good Sunday.
bjkdad44
January 30, 2022 at 02:00 pm
Bingo!
BirdDogUni
January 30, 2022 at 09:51 am
What do we do? Immerse ourselves in the off-season... Look forward to seeing what the FO does in regards to the roster. Predict whether or not AR/DA get traded... Scour NFL Draft sites and see who the Packers might draft this spring...
Should we still be playing at Lambeau today? No doubt, but we're not, so remember it's only a game and move on.
Go Pack Go!
BruceIrons
January 30, 2022 at 10:59 am
There's going to be a lot going on this offseason for sure. I'm excited for the draft, but I have no idea what positions they're going to need, yet.
BirdDogUni
January 30, 2022 at 12:09 pm
Bruce - You know as well as I do it all depends on who the FO retains, who we let walk, who we trade, who we sign as FAs, and who we draft.
I just pray Gutey sheds the dead wood and finds some mighty Oaks... ; ) (Hard woods are the best woods...) ; )
Just remember the Packers usually draft for the future.
Obvious needs are (In no particular order) : SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR, DL, OL (always), WRs, ILBer, OLBer, Safety, Kicker, and SPECIAL TEAMS ASSISTANT COACHES! ; P
croatpackfan
January 30, 2022 at 01:46 pm
They already have kicker on ST, pardon, on a future contract.
BirdDogUni
January 31, 2022 at 10:26 pm
Yeah, I still want them to bring in the best UDFA Kicker they can find for competition...
Competition is the name of the game brother...
BirdDogUni
January 30, 2022 at 01:21 pm
People who know me, know I love the Draft... ; )
Your score is: 53009 (GRADE: A+)
Your Picks:
Round 1 Pick 32: Devin Lloyd, ILB/OLB, Utah (A+)
Round 2 Pick 32: Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia (A+)
Round 3 Pick 32: Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M (A+)
Round 4 Pick 32: Brandon Smith, ILB/OLB, Penn State (A+)
Round 4 Pick 34 (COMP): Storm Duck, CB, North Carolina (A+)
Round 5 Pick 32: Keytaon Thompson, WR, Virginia (A+)
Round 7 Pick 7: Reggie Roberson Jr., WR, SMU (A+)
Round 7 Pick 32: Joshua Williams, CB, Fayetteville State (A+)
Round 7 Pick 38 (COMP): Trae Barry, TE, Boston College (A+)
Go Gutey Go!
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 03:00 pm
Gotta love a guy with the name Storm Duck...
BirdDogUni
January 30, 2022 at 01:42 pm
28. Jahan Dotson WR, Penn State
59. David Bell WR, Purdue
92. Abraham Lucas OT, Washington State
128. Tyler Badie RB, Missouri
137. Isaiah Thomas EDGE, Oklahoma
169. Ali Gaye EDGE, LSU
224. Thomas Booker IDL, Stanford
245. Storm Duck CB, North Carolina
255. Velus Jones Jr. WR, Tennessee
stockholder
January 30, 2022 at 09:51 am
LIFE GOES ON. I’m not a spoiled sport. But Damn. We have the worst Special Teams in the NFL. You knew it was going to happen. Nothing was ever done to change that direction. They’ve been a nightmare; since Trever Davis was traded. And when we look back to pick up the pieces. You have to question managements qualifications to fix it. But move on. These aren’t the droids your looking for. Boy- doesn’t that fit. Persuasive thinking? G Force ? I feel cheated. And who’s the villain. A QB who has given us nothing but great memories over the years. Were we gypped? No. But lets stop the popularity contest when it comes to the future. If they aren’t on the field, their not worth the money. If they want to be asinine in their demands. They don’t belong in Green Bay. If they can’t fix whats been wrong. They don’t deserve to work here.
Lphill
January 30, 2022 at 02:02 pm
Don’t you get it Stock ? some homer’s here get alerts on their phones when Schefter has a Rodgers comment then they run with it and hope for their savior Jordan Love .
dobber
January 31, 2022 at 10:32 am
There's nothing more "homer" than begging to maintain the status quo.
gbPACKERS1985
January 30, 2022 at 10:01 am
Great article. Right before seeing this I was telling my Packer buddies I was happy that we get to share the highs and lows together. It hurts. But I'll never stop caring.
BruceIrons
January 30, 2022 at 11:01 am
This season had quite a story. I didn't like the ending, but I can't deny it was entertaining.
TarynsEyes
January 30, 2022 at 10:03 am
Heal? BruceIrons, are you implying that you and others have been emotionally scarred by the loss, and have sitting in a safe space waiting to come out with hopes that the others won't laugh at you all because of the loss. This healing is a joke, right?
Here's a clue. Don't be led by your expectations to such a high degree that when it doesn't materialize your feet can't still touch the ground of 'reality' and life will go on an hour after such a loss.
BruceIrons
January 30, 2022 at 11:04 am
I wouldn't say I was scarred, but I was sad when we lost. Maybe that's the price of optimism, but getting over it and focusing on the good times feels like a better option for me than constantly expecting disappointment.
TarynsEyes
January 30, 2022 at 11:42 am
I said keep expectations in check, not constantly expecting disappointment, as you blatantly and wrongly stated in retort. I also didn't say ignore the good times, but I am saying don't dwell on the loss, any loss, which is what you are doing with the need to HEAL. Needing time to HEAL isn't being optimistic, but self-pitying.
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 04:57 pm
One can enjoy the good times, but if those past glories become the frame for one’s future expectations then the outlook is decidedly stormy.
BAMABADGER
January 30, 2022 at 10:07 pm
Tarynes, glad to see your back. Enjoy your comments.
Spock
January 30, 2022 at 02:02 pm
Taryn, One of the rare times I completely agree with you. :) I've had to "heal" after approximately 17 surgeries and have learned to just enjoy watching the games without any need to "Heal". When they are over I'm fine. Perhaps the use of the word "Heal" was over the top for this article. I love my team when they are playing but life goes on when they are not. I used to get upset at a Packers loss and be really happy after a win; now I've got enough other things to occupy me and don't let a GAME bother me.
cinpackback
January 30, 2022 at 10:17 am
The pain is always worse when something bad happens that you know could have been prevented. Yes, WE fans can’t prevent all the miscues and attitude issues- but we can be angry before we jump to grief and acceptance. I’ll hold onto being pissed off for awhile, thank you.
BruceIrons
January 30, 2022 at 11:05 am
To each his own :)
Rick5952
January 30, 2022 at 10:44 am
I am disappointed and pissed off to. But in the scheme of things it’s still just a football game.
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 12:14 pm
Yup. If we're still angry, frustrated, and disappointed about this, then we should count our blessings that we have llves where this trumps a lot of our other problems.
jurp
January 30, 2022 at 05:26 pm
Exactly. Talk about First World Problems...
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 05:44 pm
Come here to get away from those. That’s what sports for: the modern opiate for the masses.
Johnblood27
January 31, 2022 at 07:05 am
You all obviously did not lose as much money as I did on the outcome of the game...
The new NFL is ALL about the betting. Sport is gone, true competition is gone, the team in black and white dictate the tenor of each game and the players wait in the wings as the NFL stooges dictate the terms of the removal of money from the "fans" pockets in new and exciting ways.
Welcome to the dark side!
NickPerry
January 30, 2022 at 10:46 am
I've been lucky, I've been able to watch the Packers and vaguely remember the Vince Lombardi teams. Stick with AND still cheer on those teams in the 70's, the Lynn Lickey teams with JJ Jefferson, James Lofton, and Paul Coffman, and of course the 1992 season when a new era of Green Bay Packers football started and has last 30 years! So yes, I'll always have all those memories right up to and including this season.
BUT... At the same time this loss devastated me as a fan. I didn't watch last Sundays games because, well frankly, I didn't give a damn. I have my DVR set up to record but to be honest I just don't feel like watching football and this is from a guy who normally gets depressed when the football season is over, and not just the Packers.
It was another gut wrenching loss where the Packers were outcoached and Aaron Rodgers didn't deliver. When you KNOW you had the superior team (Yes, Superior team) and STILL lost, it just sucks a little more. On top of that the future is pretty murky too, which just seems to make it all the worse. I mean do we want to be the Saints after next year and then get NOTHING for Rodgers should he stay.
I'll begin to heal when Rodgers is traded and not a second before...Go Pack Go!
# Make it happen Gute!
BruceIrons
January 30, 2022 at 11:09 am
Having the better team and losing stings worse, but that's the nature of football. It's so complex and random that a single-elimination tournament is almost unfair. But that's also the nature of football. It's part of what draws me to it.
I think the Packers had the best team in the league two years in a row and didn't even make the Super Bowl either year.
Football is dramatic, ironic reality television at its best and worst.
Johnblood27
January 30, 2022 at 01:04 pm
Bruce, in your comment is the heart of the conflict between the folks here at CHTV concerning AR12.
Your assertion that the "best" team doesnt always win is a tru-ism.
All the angst about keeping AR12 implies that the GBP are the best version with him.
If the "best" team doesn't always win, why fear the loss of AR12?
The league will still schedule games to include the GBP and there is the chance we all hope for.
Just play the games to the best of your ability each time out. In 2010 the GBP just sneaked into the playoffs, then won it all. That is the best you can hope for.
In 1996 GBP went wire to wire with the top offense and the top defense and won it all. Those years are generational at best.
In 1997 the GBP were once again the best team in football, however between the HC losing focus and some players losing their nerve coupled with an absolutely phenomenal game plan by the opponent they lost a SB they should have won.
The following years were a steady diet of Championship caliber teams for the most part with seasons ending in heartbreak. This has become the GBP DNA unfortunately.
I feel it is going to take the addition of a generational leader with passion and fire for the game of football, winning above all and love of the GBP as a professional home. If that player comes along MAYBE the DNA can be changed. AR12 isn't that player.
PeteK
January 30, 2022 at 11:29 am
I understand, but I enjoy watching football without the stress especially Mahomes ,who is fantastic.
jurp
January 30, 2022 at 05:29 pm
Not too fantastic this afternoon, unfortunately for Chiefs fans. :)
TarynsEyes
January 30, 2022 at 11:46 am
Stop crying, I can't watch the other games because the Packers lost. Boo-Hoo! You should be watching because that's where you see all the weaknesses that undid the Packers.
NickPerry
January 30, 2022 at 12:07 pm
LOL...I don't need to watch todays games to see all the weaknesses that undid the Packers. I KNOW what weaknesses undid the Packers. It's not rocket science. Besides, why the hell do you care what I watch or not or if I;m bummed or not? If you don't like my comments move on. Just like I do 99.9 % of the time with yours.
TarynsEyes
January 30, 2022 at 01:16 pm
" If you don't like my comments move on. Just like I do 99.9 % of the time with yours."
And yet, here you are.
I don't care what you watch, but when you place it in the comment section you are expecting/hoping for a reply and likes. You, who say skip over the comments only say so when another calls you out for crying, which is basically what you do most of the time in your comments, but I'll continue to read them just to laugh.
PearlyBakerBest
January 30, 2022 at 03:23 pm
Why don’t you let people be fans the way they want to, as you insist they let you do, instead of being an asshole all the time?
Bearmeat
January 30, 2022 at 03:21 pm
NP,
I "Fredo'd" Taryn years ago. Don't read her. You'll be happier.
NickPerry
January 31, 2022 at 06:30 am
Thanks BM, normally I don't. Hell, you know m, I'm a homer to the 10th degree, normally very positive. I do know her comments are normally on the negative side and usually don't bite...Shame on me this time.
See ya around draft time, hopefully it's going t be one with a TON of picks and the looks of a bright future.
Hematite
January 30, 2022 at 12:05 pm
I agree wholeheartedly, 12 has got to go!!!
Tundraboy
January 30, 2022 at 07:28 pm
I'm with you NP. Could be because we go back to the Glory years because it is harder, but I'm all for keeping the D and running game intact and let the rest take care of itself. Lots of picks and who knows what's possible.
NickPerry
January 31, 2022 at 06:32 am
Thanks TB, I'm with you. Lots of picks and a bright future.
Packers0808
January 30, 2022 at 10:54 am
Watch the next 3 games. Wish. Wait! not much else to do at this point!
BruceIrons
January 30, 2022 at 11:09 am
That sounds like a healthy attitude. I'm going to try it.
Spanky65
January 30, 2022 at 10:55 am
How can we move forward when the one individual who not only
cost us he game but the whole season (THE SPECIAL TEAM COACH)
is still on the Coaching Staff !
This guy should have been fired when all these problems started
to show its ugly head in the latter part of the season or at least
right after last week loss
jannesbjornson
January 30, 2022 at 11:06 am
Knowing the Brain Trust, they may Promote the guy. Most of the Fans haven't Sobered up from the 2014 debacle much less the past two Home field Fails. Life is suffering, so says the Buddha.
jhtobias
January 30, 2022 at 11:11 am
Healing as a Packer fan great Title. I'm 48 so I do remember growing up in the 80s not really the the mid 70s and well to sum it up 8 and 8 was a big success.
Even saying that those of you who have only experienced Favre then rodgers with a year or two bump in the road cherish this regardless of super bowl short falls the other option is dreadful.
With that being said it is a no win situation. They keep rodgers and all the financial implications involved a couple super bowl wins is all that will be acceptable. If they move on 99 percent shot 8 and 9 is to follow unless jordan love is part 3 of a hall fame
Personally they have gone as far as they can with aaron sometimes ripping the band aide off is better.
Packers0808
January 30, 2022 at 02:17 pm
Am 77 years old and many ups and downs over the years> Seen many come and go over the years and with the last QB's we have had has been pretty sweet ride. Enjoy what you can, you never know what holds!
Qoojo
January 30, 2022 at 11:31 am
It's not as hard to heal this year. Month of december showed that the packers were quite vulnerable. One and done. Offense/AR never showed up for the game. Special teams was very poor all year. I really thought they had a good shot this year, because it seemed the defense improved enough.
The playoffs provided a lot of clarity for me with the AR no show for the game. While AR might play for a few more years, I hope they can trade him for some decent draft capital to help retool. I wouldn't mind seeing another high QB draft pick.
If AR goes, maybe the packers will find out that they have couple more WRs, now that the WRs don't need to spend 2-3 years trying to get into the trust zone of AR.
splitpea1
January 30, 2022 at 12:20 pm
Que sera, sera....the best approach to take by fans of all sports teams.
What do we do? Look forward to some rebuilding--and I hope that's what the front office decides to do because there's never been a better opportunity. Personally, I'm not real interested in seeing Rodgers dice up the Bears and Lions for literally the 30th time. Just move on and embrace the future.
Right now the front office has a lot on their plate: like breakfast, lunch, and dinner all at the same time. Coaching departures, impending free agents, what to do with AR, the special teams conundrum (a certain individual hasn't been relieved of his duties yet, is something funky going on?)....that's a lot to wade through. No point in even thinking about the draft until these things are resolved.
jannesbjornson
January 30, 2022 at 01:05 pm
Maybe they should go on a diet? They helped make the mess.
Spock
January 30, 2022 at 02:10 pm
Dad joke: "I was thinking of going on a diet, but I've got a lot on my plate right now." :)
jannesbjornson
January 30, 2022 at 02:36 pm
Like Louie said on his Johnny Carson Show debut: "Listen, I can't stay long, I'm between meals"
jh9
January 30, 2022 at 03:34 pm
Ever since I saw Aaron Rodgers light up the Falcons in Atlanta in the 2010 playoffs, I’ve been a full-throated Aaron Rodgers believer. Over these past twelve years, any failures the Packers had I blamed Dom Capers, Mike McCarthy, Ted Thompson, even Mark Murphy. However, the loss to the 49ers in this year’s playoff game hurt the most because it made me realize my belief in Aaron Rodgers was over.
Yes, the special teams breakdowns were horrible. And yes, a case could be made for this loss to be blamed on that. But Aaron Rodgers had two late 4th quarter opportunities to lead the offense to score, and he failed. Both drives were three and out. What I saw when I watched those two drives wasn’t a failure of play calls, design, or blocking. I saw Aaron Rodgers give up. And the very last play when he threw a “Hail Mary” pass to Adams said it all. Allen Lazard was wide open - by at least ten yards from any defender - and Rodgers threw into double coverage on Adams.
I suppose one could say Rodgers didn’t see Lazard, and maybe that is true. But, here’s the thing… Rodgers gets paid tens of millions of dollars a year to make that play. On the biggest stage at the most pressure packed moment, that is his job. And he failed, and I no longer trust him to lead this team. I agree with other fans who say it’s time to rip off the band aid.
bjkdad44
January 30, 2022 at 02:14 pm
I’m in 100% agreement
Tundraboy
January 30, 2022 at 07:37 pm
Yes ,what happened to the 2010 Rodgers, the one who took no prisoners? After this year I no longer delude myself into thinking it will ever change. Two straight years of having it all in front of him, so even if he ever has another opportunity I won't feel bad if it's not with us. Three and outs, hero ball , forcing the issue and not even trying for the first down and all the tunnel vision will be what I remember. I watch Burrow and see a young QB who gets that!
Oppy
January 30, 2022 at 10:52 pm
Exact same Rodgers with the exact same failure in last year's NFC championship game- in the 4th Q, the defense gives him two turnovers that the offense squandered with 3 and outs. In a row.
Go back and watch games from the past 6 years- watch the games, ignore the talking heads- and you'll find many ignored, open WRs and many poorly placed passes.
Bearmeat
January 30, 2022 at 03:24 pm
I'll be honest: It was very hard for me to follow the Packers this year.
They are still my favorite team (since childhood) and I still wanted them to win. But it was hard because 12 was a jerk and he choked, as I knew he was going to after the crap he pulled the last offseason. He didn't play like the MVP when it mattered AGAIN this year. What's worse? He did the same in 20 and 14. Ever since 2015, I've been on the "blow it up" bandwagon. TT, MM, and yes, ARod. He was broken by the debacle in Seattle and hasn't been the same since. The "trust" thing started then if you remember.
It's past time to move on from 12. As a matter of fact, it's the last exit ramp before years of mediocrity or worse. Yes, we'll win the NFCN with 12 next year. And we'll lose early in the playoffs. And it'll be worse in 23. And then he'll retire. And we'll be screwed, with no one to take the reigns, and no draft haul to ease the transition. Do you all remember the great Celtics teams of the 80s? Do you remember that same cast of characters in the early 90s? I do. It was sad to watch those older, broken-down has-beens of athletes watch their bodies be unable to keep up. That's what's in store for the Packers if we keep 12 and 17 et al this offseason. And I would strongly argue that those wanting to keep 12 are just afraid, or more Rodgers fans than Packers fans.
If you all remember, we had this exact same dilemma in the 08 offseason. BLF took many "Packers fans" with him. Both he, and they, got what they deserved in the 09 playoffs and 10 seasons. Love won't turn into ARod, but the right thing to do is just as clear now as it was then.
Yes. Healing looks like this: Ripping off the band-aid. I hope our management has the courage to do it. To risk 12 actually not choking in the playoffs (unlikely) and winning it all elsewhere, and to stare a (short) run of rebuilding before watching a long-time contender again.
Please don't be afraid: Murphy, Gutekunst, and MLF. Please.
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 05:36 pm
My mom is one person who never "forgave" the Packers for the Favre situation. She never became a Vikings or Jets fan, but nobody had more venom for TT and antipathy for ARod.
Bearmeat
January 31, 2022 at 07:29 am
It was her loss then. The last 10 years have had a lot of pain, but a lot of good memories too.
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 05:49 pm
To me it’s more akin to the addiction adage. No healing until you accept the problem and face it directly. Until you do things just repeat themselves.
Duneslick
January 30, 2022 at 12:13 pm
We have to heal after having so many good years when we had a team capable of going to the super bowl. We have been lucky. How about a reality check. You could be a lifelong lions fan and would not have to go through this.
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 12:19 pm
Read into this what you will...
https://www.profootballrumors.com/2022/01/packers-cautiously-optimistic-...
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 01:20 pm
To me it would be, if not merely tactical, quite the most idiotic and damaging approach to this year. I have zero belief that this coming roster will contend with Rodgers plus Adams and I am losing faith in the leadership vision or resolution of the leadership. While I see Murphy in this, I also believe LaFleur to be a major cause for concern, something only amplified by his tactical meltdown (again) and Drayton still not being addressed.
Healing for me will come when I see the packers make hard and comprehensible decisions and see a path not drenched in wishful thinking. Groundhog Day management is not something to inspire.
Bearmeat
January 30, 2022 at 06:30 pm
This had BETTER not happen.
BirdDogUni
January 31, 2022 at 11:14 pm
Well, what I read was, they're going to tag and trade DA to Denver for a 2nd round pick, and trade Rodgers to Denver for multiple 1st's and possibly more...
I'm down with that...
; )
Leatherhead
January 30, 2022 at 01:26 pm
What should we do? We should get up and start working harder. Life is 10% what happens and 90% what you do about it, and as far as the Packers are concerned, the 10% happened last weekend and now we're onto the 90%.
If it were me:
I'd trade Rodgers to Denver for Jeudy and this year's #9 and use the $20 million we'd save to get us closer to the cap limit
.
I'd release or trade Zsmith and Cobb for salary cap reasons.
I'd let Davante Adams leave and get a 3rd round compensatory pick for him.
I'd bring back the entire offensive line: Bakhtiari, Jenkins, Myers, Patrick, Turner, Runyon, Nijman, etc. And I'd try to add to it on Day 3.
I'd return our backfield of Jones, Dillon, Taylor and Hill.
I'd return Lazard and Amari Rodgers, Deguara, Lewis. I would consider returning MVS and EQ if the price was right. If Tonyan is healthy and affordable, I'd bring him back.
I'd return just about this entire VERY GOOD defense . King, of course, is gone. We could resign Douglas and Campbell, but they're going to have to be reasonable, and I think they have every reason to stay in Green Bay and get some guaranteed money.
I'd use the #9 pick on a very good DL. I'd use our #28 pick on a top TE.
Offensively, our weapons would include, Jones, Dillon, Jeudy, Lazard, Rodgers, and Deguara as our top 6 guys and we usually dress maybe 10 or 11 weapons, 2 QBs and the rest are offensive linemen. So we could flesh out the roster with guys we already have, like MVS and Daffney, or we could bring in a couple new guys. In any event, Jones, Dillon, and Jeudy will get over half of the plays every game. The rest will split about 20 opportunities.
So that's what I'd do.
Bearmeat
January 30, 2022 at 06:31 pm
Good stuff, LH. That said, I'd find a way to franchise and trade Davante - go to the KC bank if you need to to make it happen. The return on Davante would be a 1 at least. Way better than a 3 in 2023.
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 06:38 pm
Even a 2 in 2022 is better than a 3 in 2023.
Coldworld
January 30, 2022 at 06:57 pm
Now that’s wisdom. My problem is how do you clear the extra 20 million before mid March so 60 to 65 million in total (32 to 37 if Z is formally cut)? Sounds like mortgaging the future or letting go of blood we could use.
Leatherhead
January 31, 2022 at 09:19 am
That was my concern with the whole “tag and trade” scenario with Adams. I’m a fan of simplicity, so I wouldn’t go that way. We spent a second on Adams, got many good seasons from him, and we can still get a comp pick for him. That’s a win, and I’ll take it..
stockholder
January 30, 2022 at 07:31 pm
I agree with you on Adams. Watching the SF / LA game = he's to slow. I don't see how you pay 30 mil. to a WR just to win the division.
Oppy
January 30, 2022 at 10:57 pm
Adams is arguably the best WR in the entire game.
He's too slow? Yeah, Jerry Rice was slow too.
Tundraboy
January 30, 2022 at 07:42 pm
I'd be very happy with that plan.
Lphill
January 30, 2022 at 02:06 pm
I still can’t get over Rodgers having his punt blocked and returned for a TD and his field goal attempt blocked , and that fumble he lost and that first down catch he dropped , remember 13timesachump ?
jannesbjornson
January 30, 2022 at 02:54 pm
Brady was down 20 points and made the plays to revive his team. Rodgers quit.
Oppy
January 30, 2022 at 11:04 pm
Rodgers didn't quit. This is a flawed narrative.
Rodgers desperately wants to win, and he will fight through to the end.
Rodgers' failure isn't quitting on his team; Rodgers' failure is failure to trust his team. Rodgers believes he is the only one who can win. Rodgers believes the coaches don't know what they're doing. Rodgers believes that because he's so talented, the only chance to win is throwing to Davante Adams in double coverage 30 yards downfield rather than to ESB in single coverage (coverage he's beaten, btw) or a Lazard who is WIDE OPEN 12 yards down field.
Rodgers wants to win, and never quits. The issue is that going into big games, Rodgers doesn't visualize the Packers winning the game; Rodgers visualizes Aaron Rodgers coming from behind and making the 40 yard touchdown pass to Davante Adams to win the game as the clock expires.
That's the problem with Aaron Rodgers.
dobber
January 30, 2022 at 05:39 pm
Just make your dumbass comments and don't go fishing for a slap-fight. What are you, 12?
13TimeChamps
January 31, 2022 at 09:19 am
Apparently I'm so deep in your head you can't make a comment without mentioning me.
You would think all the thumbs down you get would motivate you to move on to another topic. But that would require at least basic intelligence and common sense.
As far as the name calling, just keep reminding everyone what an immature little twit you are.
Bure9620
January 30, 2022 at 03:06 pm
Being so all in on Rodgers being back is quite disconcerting. This team needs to rip the Bad-Aid off. They are not winning a Super Bowl with Rodgers, time to rebuild. If they actually do an extension with Rodgers that will set this franchise back and it makes me wonder where the franchise would be going long term. Gute structured everything for an all in year in 2021. Fine. It was a fail. No more successful really than the Cowboys. This is why we're having to "heal." Z Smith, P. Smith, Cobb and likely King are all gone. I suspect they designate King as a post June 1 cut. Jaire is extended, these moves give them about $48 mil in cap relief. Then Rodgers will ultimately give them another $22 mil if traded or if he retired. Build off this. See what we have in Love. If he is terrible then draft a QB with all of the draft capital you have. The future is now.
davekenya
January 30, 2022 at 03:04 pm
Healing As A Packers Fan
I'd also add to not take the bait. 'Fan' is short for 'fanatic'. I'd say we should all care about the Packers, wish the team does well every game/year, and offer our armchair suggestions and opinions. BUT ... to get perspective. This is a game. Meant to be watched and enjoyed for entertainment. NOT to consume us with vitriol, angst, and other emotions that spill over into our lives the other 6 days of the week and off-season. Take a walk. Enjoy nature. Love your family. Watch GB football but appreciate your day-to-day life should NOT rise or fall based on how the team performs and whether GB wins a SB every year (as they should b/c no other team is trying to accomplish the exact same thing.) Appreciate and realize that so much about the outcome is out of our own control.
Alberta_Packer
January 30, 2022 at 03:38 pm
Being traumatized usually takes a while to recover from - although one may think that we (the fans) should be used to it by now - being the 3rd time that its happened in as many years. Also healing can generally not occur until there has been some type of closure. Being that the main perpetrator (#12) is still within our midst - the probability for retraumatization remains high - should he return - thus preventing any real chance for individual and collective healing.
Best to part ways - so #12 has a fresh audience to adore him. While, we the fans, are permitted the opportunity to learn to (J.) Love again.
Swisch
January 30, 2022 at 04:56 pm
Alberta_Packer, after all of the melodrama and heartbreak of the soap opera last season, thanks for giving all of us fans hope that one day we will indeed Love again.
What was it: "As the Spiral Turns" or "As the World Spirals" or something else?
Alberta_Packer
January 30, 2022 at 05:30 pm
"As The Football Spirals?"
I must admit to a guilty pleasure - enjoying somewhat the antics and missteps of A. Rodgers over the last 1+ years. In my younger years I was a fan of The Young and The Restless - particularly the smarmy, smug and superficially charming Victor Newman.
Rodgers brought me back to those enjoyable times - with his version of The Near Middle-Aged and The Restless. Nevertheless, I will try and move on - just like the FO - hopefully.
Johnblood27
January 31, 2022 at 07:20 am
more like "As the stomach turns".
The GBP need to excise the problem at General Hospital.
LeotisHarris
January 30, 2022 at 04:15 pm
For me, listening to more Grateful Dead helps. No exception with this most recent disappointment.
canadapacker
January 30, 2022 at 05:21 pm
Ok people - looks like Never Not Working is going to start his offseason. So if the supposedly best Quarterback in the NFL can play like absolutely CRAP in the second half - running around like he did at the start of the season - throwing the ball up - taking sacks and finally getting intercepted to lose the game. And at home. So maybe Reid will trade Mahomes for AR???
I am healed - lets get ready for next year - with AR, with Adams and with as many as we can bring back within the Cap. Go Pack
Oppy
January 30, 2022 at 11:10 pm
Newsflash, Mahomes is 26 years old and just entering the 4-6 year window which should probably be his prime as an NFL QB.
Aaron Rodgers is 38 years old and at an age where most QBs have already fallen off and those who make it to this point are at great risk to hit a sudden wall and completely fall off.
It happens, and it happens fast. By the time you realize it's happening, it's too late.
"Better to move on from a player a year too early than a year too late."
canadapacker
January 30, 2022 at 11:58 pm
Dont quote me TT - how many good guys are still playing for other teams because TT didnt recognize good guys from cheap less talented guys - Micah Hyde, Tretter, Casey Hayward, Jared Cook etc etc. You cant keep them all but you have to be careful on who you go and Hyde has never been replaced and neither was Hayward and we could have drafted in different roster areas. The thing is that even the best of the best - as you just pointed out can still have a bad game. As AR did - but that didnt lose us the game - ST lost us the game and AR didnt win it for us - but Jimmy didnt win it either and he didnt win it today. But AR did win 13 for the last 3 years. Do you really think Love will win more than 6. Which AR won his first year. I doubt it - Even #4 had 2 good years after leaving GB. AR has at least 3 good years left especially if the Oline continues to improve and protect him.
Oppy
January 31, 2022 at 11:57 am
You should probably check who I'm quoting before you attempt to finger wag me for doing so.
None of the players you just listed have anything to do with Aaron Rodgers, a 38 year old QB.
You are either too biased or too thick to understand the long term ramifications to this team if they attempt to hang on to the past instead of move forward to the future.
canadapacker
January 31, 2022 at 05:44 pm
Oppy then you must not have followed the Packers too much. That was always TT's mantra - better one year too soon than one year too late. Sometimes that is good - but there is always turn over in the team and always reasons not to renew a player if a younger player is ready to step up. But I didnt insult you like you just did me - I just said that TT made a bunch of mistakes - not only with letting some of our good guys go but with some of our draft picks and with his reluctance to sign free agents ( and Gute is willing to ). And AR as I pointed out has 3 years less on his body than others of the same age and other players played well - Manning retired at 40 and played all 18 years. I think and Brady has proven it - that you can play into the 40's and AR can also. Finally Love is not ready and may never be ready - so why are some people thinking that you give up a sure thing for a MAYBE.
Oppy
February 01, 2022 at 07:24 am
I say "There's a sucker born every minute", but that doesn't make it my quote. Go ahead, research the phrase "better a year to late, than a year too soon." in the context of the NFL. Ron Wolf used it, too, but it's not his quote. Bob Harlan has said it as well, but it's not his quote, either. It goes back a ways.
I'm glad you brought Manning up. Manning is the perfect example. He played well until he didn't. And when he didn't, he was not just less than a HoF QB, he was bad.
He retired at 39. When Peyton was 38, he looked like Peyton Manning. When he was 39, he was bad. Also, Big Ben comes to mind as well. That's how it happens. Tom Brady is the anomaly, not the rule.
Tom Brady's play at his age is anomalous, but so too is his willingness to work with the team salary-wise to do what's best to put together a winning team. He also trusts his team mates and works within the offense. Brady has no issues with working the short game with the intent to give the kicker the game winner.
The only sure thing about Rodgers at 38 is he is not the future of the Green Bay Packers. Period.
dobber
February 01, 2022 at 07:54 am
I think the Raiders were probably saying the same thing about Charles Woodson when they decided to let him walk (and before the Packers signed him). My guess is most GMs fall back on that one with their fingers crossed when they let a quality aging player walk...especially if they start lighting it up somewhere else that first year,
Anyway--this...
"The only sure thing about Rodgers at 38 is he is not the future of the Green Bay Packers. Period."
...is the key statement here, and that ARod doesn't want to be part of what it would take in GB to get him that chance ASAP. (To other GMs) Get your pocketbooks ready...
canadapacker
February 01, 2022 at 04:32 pm
Again you made my point - but you want to win - Peyton came back from serious neck injury late in his career and went to 2 superbowls - and yes at 39 he should have retired. Brett Favre stayed one year 2 long but he went to a division championships before he crashed. Both of these guys had way more tread on their tires than AR has. My point is - AR like Brady has a lot of tread left - his arm is still strong. He is still smart enough and quick enough to get out of the pocket - showed that last year. I dont think that home team is much of advantage for him as a dome might be. Be careful of what you wish for. Even if Love is the eventual answer what I doubt. I dont mind if AR goes elsewhere - but I am almost positive that with Love we will be last place in the Central. I think that if he gets P"Od he will pull a Favre and go to Minnie. And that could be their missing piece. He has at least 3 good years left if he wants.
Oppy
February 01, 2022 at 07:10 pm
I know exactly what I wish for. That's to find the QB of the future. We might get lucky and find that Love is the guy. It might take 3 years to find the right guy if he isn't it. And it might take another 3 years after that if that guy isn't it. What I am certain of is that to keep Rodgers in 2022 will mean letting valuable, talented, young players walk away from this team, and the supporting cast around Rodgers will be weaker than it was in many years. Rodgers is not getting better, he's getting older. We need to retain the young talent on this team, and work towards finding the QB of the future. The sooner we start trying QBs, the sooner we find the future.
Coach Cleve Steamer
January 30, 2022 at 05:57 pm
Like Dad says: “I’ll give you something to cry about!”
Johnblood27
January 31, 2022 at 07:22 am
Daddy spanked you a lot, eh?
hmmmmmmmm
Irish_Cheesehead
January 30, 2022 at 06:23 pm
It’s a game. Let’s look ahead to FA and the draft. It is what it is. No healing needed here.
ricky
January 30, 2022 at 07:27 pm
If it were just one loss, that would be acceptable. But this has been a litany of playoff failure since 2010. It's always something that gets in the way- and each time, you grit your teeth, you gird your loins, and you say, "Next year. That is when it'll all come together." And then it's another disappointment. The last two years, Rodgers got what he wanted: home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Not enough. Never enough. Just another disappointment. Because when push comes to shove, this team lacks something. Maybe it's that one player, like Brady, that simply wills his team to win. Perhaps it's the administration finally deciding to open up their wallets and pay their coaches a decent amount, rather than penny-pinching, year after year. Who knows?
PackFanatic99
January 30, 2022 at 07:50 pm
Well, I'm sure I'm in the minority here but I will not be watching 1 minute of NFL Playoff football after the Packers got knocked out. I just can't do it. I'm still so angry and frustrated. This was THE YEAR. This was the LAST DANCE. I could take it if they played well but lost, that would be tough but I could take it. 2020 loss to SF was OK because they were far and away the better team. We just had to have a better regular season and have home field advantage right? 2021 was much tougher because we DID have home field advantage. At least they played one very good game vs. the Rams. Vs. the Bucs they played OK, not horrible, not great. Had a chance to win at the end. Rodgers didn't make plays. Constantly only looked at Adams when in the red zone. The decision to kick a FG was the right one we stopped them 3 and out...oh wait an obvious holding penalty on King (in a game when they were not calling any holding penalties, but this grab of the shirt was way too obvious). VERY Frustrating.
Now fast forward to 2022 playoffs. WHen everything went to crap last off season, things got very ugly, and at one point there was a report that Rodgers DEFINITELY would retire and announce it Wednesday, I said all along, he'll be back. He and Gutey will patch things up. And they did. After the opening week debacle, they played well. Very well. Looked like a SB team at times but not many really convincing wins. Then they whipped the hapless Vikings and they looked like a SB team. But then the starters looked like crap vs. the lowly Lions in the last week. Did this mean anything? I was concerned.
Then the offense and Rodgers goes on to play one of the worst offensive games in Packers playoff history. One great drive and then poof. Nothing after that. A free TD at the end of the 1st half and between Rodger's slightly off target throw and Jones inexplicably stopping and running right at the defender, they turned a sure 7 points and probably a dagger into only a FG attempt. And the special teams screwed that up.
By now we've all seen 4 or 6 or 8 plays where Rodgers didn't read the D correctly, he targeted Adams only, did not even look at the others who turned out to be open. Rookie-like QB play if you ask me. Playing outside the proper strategy of the offense. Played scared some said. Played Hero Ball some said. In any event, the offense sucked for 3.5 quarters and again on their last drive and last 2 plays.
I'm done with it. No more NFL Football for me the rest of the playoffs. See you in August.
mrj007
January 30, 2022 at 07:57 pm
I would heal faster if ST coach was fired. 49ers and Bengals just have more “juice”. Packers suck in playoffs now. They don’t see capable of elevating their intensity when needed - play scared. I would also heal faster if Packers got some players for Rodgers. Love really sucks - so being worried for next year is real. But if you dump Rodgers- you should get something + cap $ to sign guys who can help the TEAM. Rodgers seems all for himself and I think teamwork is going to be needed to win playoff games. Not so much healing - just disappointed that a team with so much promise did nothing with it - mostly because they played like entitled little bitches instead of doing what they get paid for.
JerseyCheese
January 30, 2022 at 08:08 pm
It's not time to heal yet when the BENGALS are in the Super Bowl and the NFC Championship game is being played like this. No Brady, No Mahomes, this sould've been the Packers year. And the Packers beat both Bengals and whoever makes it from the NFC in the regular season...yea, Packers fans should STILL be upset.
JohnnyLogan
January 30, 2022 at 09:02 pm
Again no one mentions that this team has garbage receivers after Adams. OBJ was the difference for the Rams. Should have been a Packer. Gute blinked. He just doesn’t have an eye for WRs. Why for three years now can’t he see that Rodgers needs a legit #2 receiver? Huge fail on his part.
Gute completely overrates MVS and Lazard, two bottom barrel receivers. Next year, whether it’s Rodgers or Love, with this same receiver corps the same thing will happen. In crunch time it’s all Adams all the time.
Oppy
January 30, 2022 at 11:12 pm
Maybe Rodgers has legit #2 WRs and he just doesn't utilize them?
JohnnyLogan
January 31, 2022 at 12:57 am
He doesn't. Just look around the league at what other teams field. MVS can't run routes, he's simply "go long" and even the Packer staff admit he's mostly there to open the field. He's averaged about 2 catches per game in his career.
Lazard, despite being open that last play, is rarely open. Even the catches he makes he's closely covered. He's used mostly as a blocking back.
OJB is simply a far better player and it's not even close. Rodgers wanted him and would have been happy to have him. When he had Jordy and Jennings and Jones and Driver he spread the ball around. For the last three years he's had Adams and a bunch of jags.
jurp
January 31, 2022 at 07:34 am
Rodgers would not have thrown to anyone not named Adams during that last drive; hell, it takes two seasons before any WR can earn AR's trust - not nearly long enough for OBJ to get more than 2-3 targets a game - same as MVS, Lazard, etc.
When AR DOESN'T have Adams on the field, he spreads it around and we win; when he DOES have Adams, he has tunnel vision, and every OC in the league knows this.
Oppy
January 31, 2022 at 11:48 am
Unfortunately, every DC in the league knows it, too.
Oppy
January 31, 2022 at 11:47 am
Johnny, you're wrong about Lazard and the last three years.
Plenty of games where there's open WRs completely ignored by #12.
Don't listen to the talking heads, watch the film. They are there, waving their hands to a QB who isn't looking.
Archie
January 30, 2022 at 10:12 pm
Had we offered more than the bare minimum to OBJ, it might be us instead of the RAMS going to the SB. Just saying ...
Our #1 problem going forward is ST play. Which means we need a real ST coach, not an on-the-job trainee. MM is willing to pay $75 MM for a QB1/WR1 but not $1.5 MM for a top notch ST coach. What sense does than make? Sounds like penny-wise and pound foolish to me. Gutey should be in charge of all football operations, period.
jurp
January 31, 2022 at 07:30 am
You actually think that AR would've thrown the ball to OBJ more than once or twice a game, instead of to Adams, the only WR on the team? Having OBJ would've made absolutely no difference because it would've taken two seasons before AR would've trusted him.
You're spot on about the ST coach. I think there will be fan revolts if Drayton remains on the team much longer.
Oppy
January 31, 2022 at 11:51 am
How much did the Packers offer OBJ? I'm curious to know.
Also, how much could the Packers afford to offer OBJ?
ImaPayne
January 30, 2022 at 10:20 pm
If the Niners had played as well as they did today against the Pack it would have been a blow out game by them. They were flater then flat against the Pack and it wasnt our D that made them that way.
The next 6 weeks should get dam interesting around here. I read an article that the Pack cant keep Adams even if they tagged him because they are 50 mil over the cap right now. A lor of players would have to take less money and some impossible finances would have to take place and this writer said it aint happening.
The Pack have to shed 50 million in salary by Mar 16th, last day of the tag to apply. Wonder just who they will cut to get that down?
jurp
January 31, 2022 at 07:31 am
TGR, Coldworld and others have been saying this for the past several months or even longer. Glad you've decided to join the party.
BJPinAZ
January 31, 2022 at 06:53 am
Great perspective and a good reminder that the entertainment value, watching our team, is a reward in itself. My dad and I watch every game together, but this year was more special because he has cancer and going thru treatment. Things are promising and I think he’ll be okay, but it’s a reminder that the Pack, although engrained in our collective, and almost a religion for some, are just entertainment. Thankfully they’re exciting entertainment, and provide so many memorable moments year in and year out, but win or lose this year, I was happy to have my dad next to me, watching every down.
Spock
January 31, 2022 at 10:55 am
BJ, Best wishes for your father. My dad had cancer in his early sixties and lived to be 91. He passed away 6 years ago and I still miss talking Packers (and other things) with him. Glad you are having extra time with your father and happy for you.
Roadrunner23
January 31, 2022 at 07:31 am
Groundhog Day…the nightmare continues….
Brockrice99
January 31, 2022 at 08:32 am
I am trying my best to move on and do a little bit of Mock Drafting as I typically do this time of year. But all of my mocks are still in question on what happens with 12 (do we get more picks) if we tag and trade 17 (do we get more picks or players of need that we wouldn't need to draft). So my mocks are all over the place and it is a weird moving on for me.
BirdDogUni
January 31, 2022 at 11:34 pm
The trick is BPA to fit scheme... Doesn't matter if we get more picks via AR/DA... Go forward as if we don't have AR/DA and Love at QB... (Because that's probably going to be the way it is in reality. If we get players in a trade before the draft, it may change our strategy a bit, but not too much...
We are definitely going to need a WR no matter what NLT the 2nd round...
We definitely need a DT/OLBer/OL/TE/CB for sure... Maybe another Safety.
At least one more decent ILBer to replace Burks for sure.
Just have fun with it! (I do...) ; )
Goliath
January 31, 2022 at 08:43 am
Thanks for the advice. I have struggled since the draft with the situation with Rodgers. The offseason leaving the Packers (and their fans) with the uncertainty was troubling. The solution caused uncertainty all season long. And the worst? We cant say 'next year' because Rodgers is holding the team hostage.
This team needs to be about more than one player.