Packers vs. Raiders - First Impressions

After what I thought was a shaky performance against the Browns, I thought Aaron Ripkowski looked a lot more assignment sure and made some really nice blocks on the first TD drive.

After a solid performance last week, I was most interested to see how Jason Spriggs would do against Khalil Mack. He found out quickly there's a big difference between Mack and the Browns' DEs.
 
Packers starting OL was dominant the first series with Lacy carrying the load. That was a "run the clock and secure the win in the 4th quarter" type of drive.
 
Speaking of dropoffs, as Jason Hirschorn understated on twitter, the drop off from Brett Hundley to Joe Callahan is quite noticeable."
 
Mike McCarthy was noticeably angry with John Crockett when he fell down on a screen pass that looked like it should have gone for big yardage. Thought it was pretty unusual for a preseason game to see a coach with some harsh words for his player.
 
In general, McCarthy seemed very animated and intense the entire game. I think he's trying hard to set a tone of toughness for this team, something I've criticized him for not doing in the past.
 
I have to say, the Packers LB corps is showing a lot more speed and athleticism than they have in many years.  Hell, the entire defense is faster. Has obviously been an emphasis with draft choices...
 
Blake Martinez showed why the Packers' coaches have been raving about him. Never out of position, diagnoses the play and takes good angles. Needs to improve on finishing tackles, but still, he's impressive.
 
Trevor Davis returning punts nullifies defenders' angles. They think they have the right approach angle and then he is past them. Want to see him get a chance or two on a reverse or end-around.
 
Kyle Murphy did well in his first live NFL action. He  was my "sleeper" OT in this draft class and I believe he can be starter material down the road.
 
Geronimooooooooo has been my camp fave. but I'm starting to feel the same way about Kentrell Brice. 
 
Carl Bradford looked like a football player tonight. First time I've said those words.
 
Abbrederis has made this team - besides his stellar play at WR, seems he's the #1punt returner now.
 
Kentrell Brice continues to impress me. He had a ton of tackles in college and you can see why. Diagnoses well, is aggressive to the ball carrier, hits hard and wraps up. Could be the surprise of camp, up there with Geronimooooooooooooo.
 
Starting a conspiracy theory; #Packers are trying not to let Geronimo show much in games so they can get him onto the Practice Squad. Thoughts?
 
Prediction: Jeff Janis will be placed on IR and likely sit the whole year. Helps them hold on to aWR who is likely better than him. They will find someone else to be a gunner.

 

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"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

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Comments (104)

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

August 18, 2016 at 10:11 pm

From what little I saw tonight, having Hundley as QB2 will make us a much better and more dangerous team. Hope he is ok.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:26 pm

Initial thoughts on tonight's game.

The difference between Hundley and Callahan is very noticeable. Hundley is by far the better player. That being said Callahan is fun to watch. He is an escape artist.

Crockett picked up his game this week. He ran hard and decisive. Much better this week.
Burks is just a different kind of RB. He has the speedy to be a really nice change of pace RB.

Backman really has improved from last year.

I really am liking what I am seeing from Martinez and Dean Lowry. Lowry seems to get a lot of push into the backfield and is always hustling to the ball. Martinez I think has locked down on of the starting ILB spots.

Also at ILB I continue to be impressed with Bradford. He is much improved this year. I still like Thomas too.

I think it's going to be tough to cut Brice. He is always around the ball. He is physical and has really good speed.

Does Mortel have a lead over Masthay? He has punted really well in these 2 games.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:23 pm

What exactly did Backman do to earn your praise? I may have to watch the game again - you certainly could be accurate. I saw Backman on a scramble he broke off his route and came back to the QB and caught a nice pass, getting his feet in bounds. Nice play. I saw Perillo throw a nice block.

I agree with all of the rest of your post, RC.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:48 am

I watched Backman in the scrimmage, last week and this week. Comparing to last year his overall game is better. He is running better routes, his blocking is better and he has caught everything his way.

That come back pass he had last night was a really nice play.

I don't know if he will be the #3 over Perillo or not, but I like what I have seen from him.

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Ibleedgreenmore's picture

August 19, 2016 at 11:01 am

Man what you said, there is talent top to bottom on this team. The hard work is in the next week the cuts are going to be very painful.

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WinUSA's picture

August 19, 2016 at 03:16 pm

I have been flabbergasted at some of the booming kicks Mortel has blasted...and last week his angling out of bounds was like the OLD Masthay against the Jets a few years back.

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Since'61's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:28 pm

I thought that the Packers opening drive was pretty impressive. It was great to see the starting offense (minus Rodgers) convert a few third and short on the drive. When Hundley was injured I just kept thinking, "thank God Rodgers was not in there". In any case I hope that it's nothing serious for Hundley. He was playing really well when he had to come out of the game. For the second week in a row the Packers defense did not give up an offensive TD. Yes, I realize they gave up a TD last week on a Browns possession that began on the Green Bay 10 yard line but it was not the defense fault. In any case the defense is looking strong even after the starters come out. Burk looked again at RB and I thought that Bradford had another solid game. It's looking like Abby for punt returns and Davis for KO returns. Unless there is an injury it looks to me like Janis goes to IR. Except for Hundley, I don't think that any other Packers were injured. Go Pack Go! Thanks, Since '61

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Gianich's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:30 pm

Brice was good and I've loved him but Banjo played solid with the 1s. Bradford and Mortell were awesome tonight. Crocket is the #3 RB for sure. That defense is stout! 3 points to the raider 1s for an entire half even without pep and clay.

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jeremyjjbrown's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:31 pm

There are going to be a lot of tough choices at cut downs. I don't envy Ted on his task.

It was nice to see Mortell hold. That's a great sign for his chances.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:34 pm

"It was nice to see Mortell hold. That's a great sign for his chances."

I thought the same thing. I figured the moment we see the new kid holding for Crosby is when things get serious. Not a good sign for Masthay - especially if Crosby keeps drilling field goals.

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jeremyjjbrown's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:36 am

Holding might be more imporant than punting. Especially with Crosby's history of yips.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:49 am

I could be wrong, but hasn't Mortell been holding? Alternating with Masthay?

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TarynsEyes's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:34 pm

Give Callahan the same learning time as Hundley and he surpasses him.

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Chad Lundberg's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:40 pm

No

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Oppy's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:04 pm

I don't think Callahan has anywhere near the arm talent of Hundley.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:32 pm

I agree @Oppy. Taryn, you're reaching on this one. Callahan does have some damn good pocket awareness and movement though.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:50 am

Hundley is far and away the better QB.

But Callahan really is fun to watch. He needs to try and develop a stronger arm, but he is elusive.

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lucky953's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:39 am

We'll see. Callahan needs to keep his eyes downfield. I was very disappointed with his willingness to throw downfield. A lot of dinking that didn't move the chains. Couldn't see the coverage, but I don't think the Raiders secondary, especially their 2nd and 3s is That good.

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SpudRapids's picture

August 19, 2016 at 11:38 am

Callahan simply doesn't have the arm strength to push throws downfield. It's evident on his overthrows. It's like a golfer swinging too hard to try to get a longer drive, you lose accuracy and spray. Callahan had some guys open and saw them but sailed the ball because he didn't have the arm strength. Compare that to Hundley and the eye test shows the arm talent is a mile apart. Hundley's slant to Cook looked crisp, fast and accurate. I don't see how Callahan could pass Hundley on physical gifts alone.

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Slim11's picture

August 20, 2016 at 11:34 am

I doubt it. Callahan might become a #2 some day but that will require a lot of work and a couple of seasons on the PS.

His arm strength was good in college. I haven't thrown a football in a long time but isn't the NFL football wider/fatter around the middle than the college ball? It was when I was in college. This seemingly small difference might be enough to cause problems for a rookie QB in the NFL. Bart Star said he noticed the difference his rookie season in 1956.

Hundley does seem to have the better physical tools. Hundley also had a full season on the team. One would expect him to perform better than Callahan. I look forward to seeing Callahan next year and expect noticeable improvement.

GO PACK GO!

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dobber's picture

August 21, 2016 at 07:37 pm

Callahan's ceiling is somewhere around Matt Flynn (when his elbow wasn't bothering him) territory. I called him B.J. Coleman at one point, but I like his makeup better than that. He hasn't looked overwhelmed by where he is.

Hundley has starter potential. We've likened him to an Aaron Brooks, and I don't think he's done anything to say that's an overestimation.

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EdsLaces's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:34 pm

Martinez and Carl stood out for sure. As a whole this game was quite impressive my only question is ....when is Clark going to show up to the party?

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:17 pm

Clark played well, IMO.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:19 pm

Double post. So... DL stuffed Oakland all night. Shut down the run game. That is what Clark is supposed to do. I had some reservations about Clark too - he was far from my draft crush. We just see this completely differently.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:29 pm

I don't remember Clark making any plays this game (I did miss a few plays this game), but he definitely has some good plays against the Browns. My favorite that might not be the most popular is the play Martinez came flying in and forced RG3 to throw the ball away on a screen play. Clark was all over that RB. That play would have been dead even if Martinez hadn't got that.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:57 pm

Murry 6 carries, 19 yards
Jones: 2 carries, 3 yards
Owalawa: 2 for 14 yds
Washington 5 for 8
Atkinson 3 for 3 yards
Derek Carr 1 for -1
Carries: 19 carries, 46 yards rushing, 2.4 yds/carry.

Thought Clark and Guion both handled Oakland's OC, Hudson. Truth is I don't know how good Hudson is. I would agree that our pass rush did not seem all that great. I don't remember any highlight plays from Clark tonight, just grunt work done pretty well.

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EdsLaces's picture

August 19, 2016 at 07:17 am

I get that and I know what his job is, but as a first round pick I wanna see something good. At least him blow up a running back or something.

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croatpackfan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:24 am

Yeah, but some snaps were on Mike Pennels hands. He stuffed several runs of Raiders...

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croatpackfan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:24 am

Yeah, but some snaps were on Mike Pennels hands. He stuffed several runs of Raiders...

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lucky953's picture

August 19, 2016 at 02:19 pm

We have to ask: Are the linebackers making plays in the run game? Maybe Clark is keeping the OL from getting to them?

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NickPerry's picture

August 20, 2016 at 05:36 am

Bradford has played well in both games so far. The game seems to have definitely slowed down for him this year. I thought Clark did okay, better this week than last but he seems to be doing what he's supposed to and like TGR pointed out, the stats show it. The Raiders played their 1st team O-Linemen the whole first half and had over $100 Million dollars of Free Agents (Hudson, Penn, and Osemele) blocking the rookie. All in all not bad. Martinez is a stud so far and I'd imagine he'll just keep getting better and better. Barringtons weight loss seems to be for the better too. Seemed faster out there than I remember.

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Chad Lundberg's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:38 pm

sure is great to see Jersey Al's First Impressions again.

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Tundraboy's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:12 am

Ditto. Season is officially underway.

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Grandfathered's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:39 pm

Larry McCarran said that the coach would like to see someone take the 3rd running back and punting jobs "by the neck" and run away with it. Crokett came close to doing that, but it looks like the punting job is still up in the air. If anything, Mortell looked better. I don't count the block against Masthay.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:27 pm

Thought Burks looked good. Thought Crockett looked good, big, but slow. You're probably right - GB likes bigger guys who can take a pounding, even if they are slower guys.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:53 am

The #3 RB job really is becoming a good battle. Crockett had some good plays, but so did Burks. Combining last week and this week I think Burks was still better overall.

At the end of the day I think it will depend on what the coaches prefer. Do they want a RB similar to their 1 and 2 RB's, or do they want a guy who brings something different? Also special teams will be a huge factor.

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4thand1's picture

August 19, 2016 at 05:30 pm

The blocked punt was all on Gunter. Totally whiffed on his block.

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Oppy's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:41 pm

I'll see Al's comments on Bradford and raise him:

Based purely on preseason game play, Carl Bradford has shown more than any other Packers inside linebacker thus far.

Martinez doesn't look out of place, but his finishing tackles is not just something that needs tweaked- it is poor and needs serious attention.

Lowry really looks good at DE. Brian Price was blowing guys up, but he needs to work on his awareness- twice he drove his man into the QB's lap, but didn't have the awareness to disengage and tackle the RB deep in the backfield.

As I stated earlier this offseason.. Packers fans are going to be seeing much improved play at the nose now that Raji is gone. We're seeing it already from Guion, from Price, and my main man Pennel is a straight up beast. All three have more anchor than BJ Raji.

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Colin_C's picture

August 18, 2016 at 10:43 pm

Considering Oakland blew out Arizona last week 30 to 10, I was really impressed with our defense. Especially against the run, they were dominant. Bradford looked solid again, as did Brice. I also thought Adams had a couple of great catches. Good showing all around by the team!

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 19, 2016 at 12:00 am

Wow, I disagree with many of the comments above, and agree with a couple. Position battles:

STs: Is Slocum back? Really miss Janis as a gunner.

RB: Burks looked real good. Beautiful bounce to the right. Crockett's TD run was excellent, but he got caught from behind again (because Barclay didn't bother to hold his block one click longer but also because he isn't very quick). I think it depends on the type of RB one prefers in the #3.

ILB: Joe Thomas was excellent. Bradford had another strong outing, but had a penalty and one oops. Martinez looked good - clear why we drafted him.

OLB: Did we play any?

DL: Clark looked good - got washed out on 1 double team. Lowry looked pretty good. We looked stout all night.

DB: Brice looked solid, plays nice fundamentally, tackles. He is in the conversation for the 53. PS is a given.

FB: Rip's to lose. Couple of nice blocks; 1 rec, 1 drop. Alstevis looked like a DE.

TE: Saw Perillo throw a nice block. Backman caught one.

WR: Monty had a drop. Geronimo caught an 18 yd slant and drew a PI by doing a nice job of using his body to shield off the defender. Davis had a nice night, but as a PR. Nothing going on downfield more than 12 yards all night. Hard to judge the receivers. [Oops - Adams had a nice catch well downfield from Hundley - 31 yards I guess. I think that was off a scramble or roll out]

OL: Lots of pressure - again the QBs were getting pressure after the starters left. Mack educated Spriggs. Lots of pressure up the middle from the 2s. I advocated for 10 OL, but not seeing 10 worth keeping.

EDIT: P: Saw Mortell flip the field. Didn't think that was legal. Listening to Vic: If GB keeps Masthay, Mortell will be available for a while. If GB picks Mortell, someone will pick up Masthay fairly quickly. Probably true.

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Grandfathered's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:43 pm

The coaches would prefer a banger runner, and get their speed and receiving out of the backfield through Cobb/Montgomery. Lacy is in a contract year....

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 07:14 am

What I like about Burks is he brings something different then Lacy and Starks. We haven't had a RB like him really since Franklin.
Crockett played really well, but I don't like that he got caught from behind on that screen. (not his fault, but would like to see break those tackles). But he brought a lot more energy last night. And he had 2 really impressive runs.

I really like Joe Thomas. A lot has been talked about Bradford, but Thomas has really played well.

Mortell has really punted well in games. He has outshined Masthay. It maybe true that someone would pick up Masthay over Mortell. But at this point, in games that I have watched Mortell has been better. He has shown he can drop punts inside the 5, and boom punts for 50-60+ yards with good hang time. Masthay has proven to be inconsistent.

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Since'61's picture

August 19, 2016 at 02:58 pm

Great Reynoldo - the play to Adams that you mentioned was on the play that Hundley was injured on. He got the pass off to Adams just before his leg was rolled up. Adams made a nice catch on the play and stayed in bounds. Nice throw by Hundley considering the pressure. Watch the replay if you can. Thanks, Since '61

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:24 pm

There's so much to talk about after this win, but I just want to highlight a play of Bradford. It was a running play that he diagnosed immediately after the snap and I believe he took on a blocker and tackled the RB. That's the type of play no other ILB can do besides Barrington and Ryan. This dude has made a helluva turn around. There's another play (passing) that I feel he played really well that I'll get to later.

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TKWorldWide's picture

August 19, 2016 at 07:17 am

Would you say his flow appeared to be aflame?

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stockholder's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:30 pm

Prediction: Janis is done as a packer. He forces his release, and signs with the Vikings. The packers special teams will suffer. Abbey will be cut. The Wrs will be Nelson, Cobb, Monty, Adams, Davis ,and Geronimo.

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zeke's picture

August 19, 2016 at 02:57 am

Forces his release how?

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jeremyjjbrown's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:45 am

I stockholders imaginary world players can do that.

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stockholder's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:51 am

I believe he won't be out the year. I believe he wants off the DL. There won't be a place for him, and TT releases him. I posted my 6 Wrs. Nelson, Cobb, Monty are locks. Adams gets a pass for the comp pick. Davis has to much speed and is above average. Allison has everyones confidence to catch the ball. He size puts him above Abbey. This ends the controversy.

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SpudRapids's picture

August 19, 2016 at 11:41 am

No way Allison overtakes Abby

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stockholder's picture

August 19, 2016 at 02:14 pm

I know why you feel that way. But lets look at this from TTs view. Allison is the much bigger target. Less injury prone. A mis match compared to Abbey. Same salary, but he's gained the trust of the QBs. Allison has had less drops. Allison won't stay on the PS. And TT learned a lesson with Charles Johnson. This kid is ready. Abbey is a Boykin or Jones at best. No separation. Quality Hands. Abbey is the odd man out. The ceiling has been reached with him. He will only get slower. By releasing Abbey, TT keeps the door revolving until he gets the replacement for Cobb and Nelson.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 19, 2016 at 02:31 pm

TT's view or your view? If it's Abby (comparison to James Jones) or Allison (the next Charles Johnson) I'm sure the coaches and TT will choose Abby every time. If I'm not mistaken, Aaron Rodgers once said that we don't win the Super Bowl without him and called him priority #1 when heading into the 2011 season free agency.

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Since'61's picture

August 19, 2016 at 03:05 pm

Try to remember that Abby holds the edge versus Allison because Abby is an effective punt returner. That's important to MM because his ability to PR and WR saves a roster spot. I'm not saying that Allison doesn't stick but I think that Abby does also. Thanks, Since '61

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stockholder's picture

August 19, 2016 at 04:16 pm

I feel no edge. I feel Hyde and Cobb are the punt returners. Davis and Abbey maybe in the mix. But that will not give anyone the stick. I'm sure TT does his own thing, but my feeling is past practice. Also I just see mega tron and what happened in detroit. Not to mention past Injuries. I do hope Abbey makes it.

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croatpackfan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:37 am

You forgot that Vikings had one player as Jeff - Cordarrelle Patterson. Why do you think they need another one?

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croatpackfan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:37 am

Double... Sorry

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:33 pm

As a note, Hundley was in the pocket. Mack hit him low, below the knee. That was a penalty on McCray last week, but golden boy Mack, no siree. Maybe there is a reason no penalty was called.

An injury to Hundley has ramifications. If it lasts a while, it means we have to carry 3 QBs, and lose a roster spot for a Brice, Allison, WR. I am slowly coming around to the idea of putting Janis on the IR, but the punt coverage was not so great. Banjo is still a player.

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Oppy's picture

August 19, 2016 at 12:24 am

Couldn't the Packers IR Hundley, keep Callahan (or whoever) as the defacto backup for the meantime, and if the unthinkable happens after week 9, bring Hundley off IR and shoot Callahan (or whoever) back to practice squad.. All without wasting an extra spot on the 53 active roster?

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 19, 2016 at 12:39 am

Yes, they could as you outline. But I think we'd just carry Hundley on the 53 if his injury is such that he would only miss 2 or 3 regular season games. I mean, are you willing to see Callahan start multiple games? I have to think if Hundley has to go on IR, TT will scramble for a veteran.

BTW, MM said Hundley's injury is not serious, but is a re-injury of the same ankle, just not as bad. Well, I take that with a grain of salt, but it's better than MM giving gloomy news.

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NickPerry's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:03 am

I don't think his injury is that serious Oppy, at least that's what I read on Acme Packing Company. They said they don't think it's as bad as the original injury even so that's good news. Still, you'd like to see him play these last 2 games and get those reps.

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DaTomkat's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:40 am

Wow, I read a lot of comments and could not believe no one saw this play as I did. (until the T.G. Reynoldo) I came right off my chair and said "thats the same low tackle that McCray was called on last week". Announcer mentioned Hundley was "Rolled up on" a couple times. I Couldn't believe it. Really ticked me off. Anyhow it was good to see someone had the same view that I did. "Brice" is a keeper, but don't count out "Hawkins"and "Dorleant" just yet. These young corners I Believe have a future in the NFL.

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croatpackfan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:41 am

Well, McCray hit QB from side, Mack did it behind. Maybe, difference is there...

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dobber's picture

August 21, 2016 at 07:46 pm

I've been in his corner up through the Raiders game, but I thought Rob Daniel looked a little lost on Thursday night. If it's just a race for the 5th CB spot coming out of camp (while Goodson sits), I think Hawkins might now be that guy. I liked how he looked.

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Tundraboy's picture

August 19, 2016 at 09:20 am

Have same concerns about Hundley and ripple effect his being out would have on roster flexibility.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 18, 2016 at 11:43 pm

And another thing, if Adams would have dropped that beautiful pass from Hundley you all would be killing him now.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 19, 2016 at 12:04 am

"And another thing" LOL Pray tell what you are implying?

If Adams had dropped that beautiful pass, would he not deserve a scold?

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 19, 2016 at 12:08 am

Gotta give props when due is my point. Ty has been dropping some easy passes -- not much talk about that.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 19, 2016 at 12:47 am

Perfectly fair. I hereby give my props, such as they are, to Adams for the nice catch. (I did note Monty's 3 drops in 2 days he had in practice, the brutal drops he had in college, but heck if I remember which site I was on, and in a comment above, the drop Monty had tonight.)

And another thing: Get off my lawn!

I am getting tired, so I will check back in the morning.

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marpag1's picture

August 19, 2016 at 02:18 am

The positive on Adams is that he made two very nice contested catches.

The negative is that I don't think he had much of any separation on either play.

Yesterday was kind of a mixed bag with him, IMO.

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fastmoving's picture

August 19, 2016 at 03:07 am

Prediction: they paid a guy like hawk nearly a decade for just beeing a warm body in there, so is probably a decent chance they put janis on ir.

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marpag1's picture

August 19, 2016 at 03:49 am

What everyone seems to be saying about Spriggs is true. He’s woefully underpowered and seems to get knocked back repeatedly, but he does have decent balance to keep his feet and recover. Granted, Khalil Mack is a pretty tough block to make.

I hope Nelson comes back looking like Nelson. Because to me, this year’s receiving corps is still looking about like last years’ receiving corps.

I do love the juice that’s added to the offense by Monty and Cook, though. Put a real QB in there with them, plus a much improved running attack and things look better. But geez, if we could get something from the other WRs…

Zero sacks, little pressure IIRC. Most of the pressure that I did see was up the middle. For as much as some are raving about the depth at OLB, that’s not a real good look. Of course CM3 and Peppers might look different. As of right now, Elliot gets cut – no question.

Am not as impressed with Lowry as some others are. Seems to get shoved around a lot.

Punting was better. And I’m still not very comfortable…

Could the Packers keep five safeties? Definitely possible… HHCD, Burnett, Hyde, Banjo, Brice.

I’d say we have zero questions about backup center. Biggest question there is if/when Linsley gets his starting gig back. Pack might keep eight OL… starting five, plus Tretter, Spriggs and Taylor, and then they pray that Murphy makes it to the PS. If Murphy continues to look good, then they almost have to keep nine. Given all the OL free agents coming up next year, I’d guess they keep the nine.

Hundley’s ankle better be OK. Not the slightest chance that Callahan or Williams take up a roster spot, IMO. PS maybe for Callahan, who seems to have a little bit of moxie and not much talent. In an injury disaster scenario, the Pack would bring in a retread veteran.

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Tundraboy's picture

August 19, 2016 at 09:23 am

Spriggs Just needs to bulk up to NFL standards. Seeing him stand next to Bahktiari was telling.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 19, 2016 at 11:30 am

Nice Post, Marpag. I thought Spriggs was the best athlete of all the LTs other than Tunsil, but the least ready to start day 1. Very high on him still. Needs a year in the weight room. Looks like the same WR group as last year. Only receivers I saw get open during their route at the expected window area were Allison and Monty. The others tended to get open after the QB had to scramble (Backman, Adams), though I grant that is important too. Nelson better be healthy and still elite. Did we play any OLBs? They were invisible. ILB looks to be in much better shape than I thought. Moving from keeping 10 OL to just 9; moving to 5 Safeties from 4. Hawkins, Evans & Dorleant still bear watching for the PS, maybe the 53. Still think Rollins is gonna be real good.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 19, 2016 at 01:41 pm

Gotta disagree with you on the Lowry part. He's not getting pushed around a lot. I've seen him lose on some run plays but nothing as ugly as the shoving Guion received from the Browns. I'll chalk it up to inconsistent pad level and that can be coached up. There's a reason he's been starting in Base. I'm certain many of those middle pressures you mentioned had Lowry in the play.

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marpag1's picture

August 19, 2016 at 05:40 pm

Fair enough, DW. I'm not saying that he's stinking up the joint, just that he seemed a bit more "rookie-ish" to me than some others were saying. (I don't remember if I heard that here or somewhere else).

I'd say his chances of making the 53 are pretty decent, although some of that is because we're not exactly deep on the D-line.

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dobber's picture

August 21, 2016 at 07:51 pm

"I hope Nelson comes back looking like Nelson. Because to me, this year’s receiving corps is still looking about like last years’ receiving corps."

To echo and add on to other sentiments: how much of this, so far, is a function of the person throwing the fb and Jared Cook playing a minimal role?

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packrulz's picture

August 19, 2016 at 04:58 am

I think Callahan has played well for a rookie. Can read defenses, can "feel" when protection is breaking down, good scrambler, can throw on the run. Accurate passer, does not throw a lot of picks. Negatives: a little short, doesn't have a huge arm for deep balls.

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MarkinMadison's picture

August 19, 2016 at 05:25 am

Mortell continues winning. They need to throw him out there in the first quarter next week and see if it matters. Unless something changes I think Masthay is gone. I don't care if he would get picked up faster by another team. He has been so inconsistent at inconvenient times in the past that if Mortell edges him he should be the guy.

I agree that the WR group minus Jordy continues to be underwhelming. Trevor Davis is a better return man than Abby, though. I don't know why anyone thinks Abby has the return job sealed. Davis has way more speed and his hands looked good. As far as receiving ability goes though, once you set aside Cobb and Jordy they all have their pros and cons, and they all look replaceable.

Martinez knows where to be, but I get the criticism about his tackling. I thought that Clark got blown out of the play few times, and I think it is a concern because they are counting on him to be part of the rotation from Day 1. Clark will get picked on, and it will last all year unless he shuts it down. Murphy's block for Crockett was beautiful. Spriggs got schooled, but he doesn't need to be ready until next year, hopefully.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 07:25 am

Mortell really is impressive.

I disagree about the WR's a bit. The receivers seemed to make more plays when Hundley was in there. When Callahan came in we didn't see as many plays made by the WR's. On the 3rd down after Hundley came into the game, Montgomery ran a perfect route, came back for the ball. If Callahan throws it to him its an easy first down. The QB play affects the WR play.

Lets not forget who Spriggs got schooled by. Khalil Mack one of the best pass rushers in the league.

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MarkinMadison's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:28 am

I don't want to take the argument further without re-watching the tape. I'm looking at Spriggs to see if he is getting beat with power, not just speed. I'm looking at the WRs to see which ones are getting separation.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 09:28 am

I'm not really trying to argue, just basically saying that I think with better QB play we will see better WR play.

Sometimes QB's have to give WR's chances to make a play. Hundley did that.

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croatpackfan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:49 am

QUestion about PR - KR is not only in speed. It is also question on coverage made by ST. If you do not have the lines to run, it is better to call fair catch. Also, it was beautiful how Abby brought 15 yrards on PR without moving a bit - by calling fair catch at the last second!

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lucky953's picture

August 19, 2016 at 09:12 am

Very much in agreement on Mortell. I think he wins the job. Masthay is not going to get any better. Also agree on Clark. He's got the talent but he's green and will get pounded. On the other hand, our LBs are getting to the ball carrier so maybe that DL is doing its job in occupying blockers. I'm less impressed with our 3rd and 4th QBs than I am concerned about the receiver group. Geronimo Allison's got a lot to learn, but he can get open and catches the ball. Seems like a difficult guy to cover. Trevor Davis is very smooth in and out of breaks. Montgomery was open frequently, but drops and not seen by Callahan meant no flash. Once they start moving him around in regular season, he'll be a handful for defenses. I was impressed with Kyle Murphy. Lane Taylor played much better than last week. Secondary is very, very good.

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packerfan9507's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:18 am

The way Burks read the play was super impressive. I know Crockett had the better game but I'm clearly a fan of Burks and it'd be a shame if he didn't make the team.

Speaking of reading plays, S Evans #25 made some excellent reads, crept up, shot the gap, and made some good run stops. Very impressive.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 07:26 am

Completely agree on Burks. It was very impressive.
What I like about him is he offers something else then the other RB's. Plus he has shown he can pass block.

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NickPerry's picture

August 19, 2016 at 06:24 am

Living in Los Angeles I haven't watched much of the game yet, but I found an interesting "Stat" after 2 games. The Packers defense is the #2 Defense behind only Denver who's played just 1 game.

I know, I know, it's the Preseason, nothing to get excited about. Well I'm a "Little Excited" simply because that hasn't happened in a while around here on defense, Preseason or not.

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RCPackerFan's picture

August 19, 2016 at 07:30 am

Something to keep in mind with that. Mathews, Peppers and Burnett have yet to play this preseason.
Also the Packers #2 defense went against the Raiders #1 offense a lot last night and held up really well.

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Funcrusher's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:50 am

Was really excited about Kenny Clark after hearing about him destroying guys in the 1-on-1's in training camp, but I'm very underwhelmed with his preseason so far. He's barely getting a push on passing downs. I thought it was strange when I saw Guion starting over him. Hopefully he improves quickly because they're gonna need him in a couple weeks.

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Finwiz's picture

August 19, 2016 at 08:55 am

1st unit O-line...very impressive on 1st drive. Couple holes you could have drove a truck through instead of Lacy. Lacy looks pretty good, but he certainly isn't the best shape despite all we've heard about the PBX90 program (or whatever it was). Adams made some nice catches. Defense looks very good and I'm starting to see signs that perhaps the last few years of Capers, "less than stellar" performance, might be reversed. I saw the burst many of you said that Burks had, and I was impressed with a couple of runs. Crockett looked good as well, although I agree completely, on that one particular screen pass, he had WIDE OPEN field in front of him, and should have been more aware of pursuit, and should NOT have been caught from behind. I'm glad McCarthy was annoyed by it, because I thought it was a huge missed opportunity. When you have a chance at BIG plays, you have to make them - or maybe you don't deserve to be on the 53?

The only negative of the night was the blocked punt, and the overall punting of Mastay compared to Mortell (sp). It looked like Mastay took forever to get that put off showing no sense of urgency. Mortell really impressed me with some of those boomers, and he may deserve to be on this roster. Very good showing by the entire team.

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TommyG's picture

August 19, 2016 at 09:00 am

Janis is a bad ass and we will suffer from not having him; especially on ST.

Other than that, get ready for this team to put up silly number on offense. I mean straight silly.

The defense is going to look like something to be feared as well. And I don't mean in the pick-it-off sense. No, qb's are going to be afraid.

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Tundraboy's picture

August 19, 2016 at 10:11 am

Unless Masthay really turns things around, and even then, it looks like they have to go with the new guy. Cant see how they don't.

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Point-Packer's picture

August 19, 2016 at 11:30 am

Start Tretter at Center and then pay the man.

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zeke's picture

August 19, 2016 at 11:38 am

No question. The fact that Linsley apparently hasn't been able to do anything since May? Hard to see how Tretter isn't starting against Jax and beyond. Hamstring injuries suck.

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Funcrusher's picture

August 19, 2016 at 12:03 pm

Agreed. They have a lot of free agent o-lineman Next season. They should lock up Tretter ASAP.

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4thand1's picture

August 19, 2016 at 05:53 pm

Ok it's pre season. We won't know until the first cuts who will make this team (other than the obvious). The coaches will break down the game film and determine who did what was asked and preformed well. It looks like a lot more west coast on offense right now. We won't see what the team identity will be because other teams study film. The one thing I see is a lot more speed, you can't coach speed.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 12:21 am

Finally going over the game again:

2nd Quarter, 15 mins. 2nd down & 15

What in the hell did Barrington see to make him step forward out of his zone? Saved by Banjo.

I did like a play he made earlier though (on the flare pass to the RB. Barrington looks much quicker.)

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 12:48 am

2nd Quarter, 2:38. 1st & 10

Brandon Burks owes Jason Spriggs and Joe Callahan an apology. Not to belittle Calahan, but Burks' lucky that wasn't #7 or #12. He'd be gone. Spriggs obviously gave Mack the outside.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 21, 2016 at 02:52 am

Yes, I've read others on another site write that Spriggs re-directed Mack to the outside, apparently expecting help that did not arrive. Burks is a rookie.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 01:01 am

3rd Quarter, 14:19. 2nd & 9

Carl Bradford made a damn good play. If the ball was placed where it was supposed to it would have been picked. Bradford read the QB while also playing Joe Thomas' man and keeping his body squared to his initial assignment (the RB).

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 01:23 am

3rd Quarter, 8:22. 1st & 10

Nice Defensive adjustment and awareness by Brice. That speed really showed on this play.

Something funny, if you go frame-by-frame Brice is the only guy really moving and it's a yard each time up until the tackle.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 01:30 am

3rd Quarter, 6:42. 1st & 10

Should have been a big play to either Perillo (1st) or Crockett (checkdown, wide open), but Spriggs got his ass whooped and the pressure got there quick.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 01:46 am

3rd Quarter, 12 seconds. 3rd & 4

Blown assignment by someone (#25, I'm guessing since he helped double-team #41's guy). The QB didn't take advantage of it. Should have been a pitch and catch to #33.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 01:54 am

4th Quarter, 12:53. 1st & 10

MY FAVORITE PLAY OF THE GAME!!!!!!

If you can pause the play a half a second after the ball is snapped -- just look Carl Bradford. AMAZING!!! He's already in full attack mode. He beats the pulling Guard to his spot, knocks the pulling guard backwards, slips to the ground and still wraps the RB's legs. Loss of a yard. Ladies and gentlemen, round of applause for Carl Bradford.

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DrealynWilliams's picture

August 21, 2016 at 02:10 am

4th Quarter, 9:39. 1st & 10

This damn Carl Bradford.....wow. Is this what you get in return for being patient and allowing a player to develop? He quickly diagnosed the play, beat the blockers to the spot. The RB had to change directions 3 yards behind the LOS.

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