Official GameDay Thread Week 3: Packers @ Lions

[ThunderDan]

Push off.

And TO, while a good bet. Hurts bad now.

We get the ball first in the second half just let it run.

[Guiness]

There's a guy who will be looking for work Monday.

[gbgary]

whew!

[ThunderDan]

Thank goodness.

[Rastak]

Why the fuck did the Lions go for it 4th and 4 at their own 20????

They did? Not watching the game.....that's crazy unless there's 2 seconds left.

[smuggler]

I read back on the play log. CBSSports just had it labeled wrong.

[pbmax]

Datone Jones is the quietest defensive end in the league. And I don't mean the strong, silent type.

Already has 2 QB hits.

[Teamcheez1]

Rodgers is 6-12 for 51 yards. Tough to play against a secondary that is on their 3rd and 4th string players.

[Harlan Huckleby]

Lacy "responsible" for all 9 of the Lions points. I don't know if he could have broke the plane, but stuttering and trying to bounce outside got him even further nowhere.

I don't like deep handoff in endzone against superior d-line.
but I guess hindsight

[Fritz]

Positives: pass rush, pass rush, defense.

Negatives: offensive line blows Donnie's, Boykin's nuts shriveling, no TE presence over the middle but for one play, MM play calling - screen play? And not adjusting to Lions'RB drifting wide for big gains on passes.

[esoxx]

Not one of McStubby's better first halves.

[Fritz]

If this offensive line could block the Packers could move the ball!

[red]

stupidity sums up the first half for us.

from running the same play back to back to start the game, leading to the lacy fumble

to the 3rd and 2 where we go for the deep ball instead of the 1st down

to the deep hand off in our own endzone leading to the safety

to the 2nd and 15 where we run a nice 2 yard out

to the timeout called at the end of the half when detroit was just trying to kill the clock

just fucking dumb sums up this team and staff.

and who'd have thought the D would show up today and the offense would be responsible for maybe losing us the game?

[Harlan Huckleby]

Rodgers has completed 6 passes in the first half.

Look for packers to pick it up and win by 17 points

[Harlan Huckleby]

Already has 2 QB hits.

Then QB held the ball. Jones does not get off blocks.

[pbmax]

I read back on the play log. CBSSports just had it labeled wrong.

Yahoo has it as 3rd and 7.

[pbmax]

Then QB held the ball. Jones does not get off blocks.

Hit while throwing both times, one completion. But I agree, he doesn't shed like Daniels does.

[ThunderDan]

Can't blame the safety on Lacy. Lang missed the blitzing LB.

[ThunderDan]

Not one of McStubby's better first halves.

After last week this one looked much better.

[ThunderDan]

Isn't that a horrible comparison?

[Freak Out]

can someone bump the fire MM thread please? The guy has really fucked up some basic game management stuff today.....no feel for the game flow.

[Harlan Huckleby]

Quarless=secret weapon

very secret

[ThunderDan]

Two throws to Q to start the second half.

[wpony]

Does Lacy have some kind of injury or just playing bad . Lacy really hasnt done anything this yr and fumbled 2 times so far this season not playing like last year at all ,You cant really blame the line Starks is behind the same line and he is getting yards

[pbmax]

Tske Lacy out and put Starks in.

[Teamcheez1]

Running wide is useless.

[KalamazooPackerFan]

The entire Lions D is across the LOS before Lacy can even get going!

[ThunderDan]

We need Starks in today.too much shake and bake rom Lacy.

[Teamcheez1]

The offense is going to lose us this game today.

Completely outplayed and outcoached so far.

[Fritz]

Should Cobb have caught that?

[Freak Out]

Have they run a screen today?

[Tony Oday]

Is James Jones that important?

[Freak Out]

Where is Janis? :)

[pbmax]

Should Cobb have caught that?

If he does, he is OOB anyway.

[Strange Brew]

They haven't ran a screen since 1998

[pbmax]

Weak call. QB should have been down.

[Rutnstrut]

So since the old defense is back, does that mean the offense will be better now?

[Striker]

It looked like unintentional tripping there

[KalamazooPackerFan]

Defense is coming back to earth

[pbmax]

They haven't ran a screen since 1998

They have run it a lot in preseason and first week. But Lacy and Starks have hands of stone. Only Harris is reliable.

Lions have gotten Packers pass rush blocked.

[pbmax]

Lattimore is hurt.

[pbmax]

TO saves the day. Peppers with recovery!!!

[denverYooper]

Peppers just earned half of his contract right there.

[ThunderDan]

Peppers is the man!

[Striker]

Peppers!

[ThunderDan]

So since the old defense is back, does that mean the offense will be better now?

What defense is back???

[KalamazooPackerFan]

Now we see if Offense came to play!

[Rutnstrut]

Except now the offense will fritter this opportunity away.

[pbmax]

Here comes your screen.

[pbmax]

Rodgers had happy feet on that inaccurate completion.

[pbmax]

House has cramps. Lattimore was hurt on a low block on blitz.

[ThunderDan]

Late hit.

[pbmax]

Getting a makeup call on D holding.

[Rutnstrut]

AR got his ass bailed out on that one.

[pbmax]

Bak is having a bad game.

[pbmax]

Linsley had good block of Suh. Harris shouldn't have cut back

[ThunderDan]

What is up with our RBs today. The O-line isn't doing well so just hit the hole.

[denverYooper]

Offense is kludgy today.

[KalamazooPackerFan]

Just the worst our offense has looked in ages.

[Tony Oday]

Wow AR is not good today.

[pbmax]

Well, that no huddle drive was long enough for the D to catch its breath and adjust the scheme. I hope.

[Rutnstrut]

Rodgers doesn't even look average today.

[Fritz]

Now we see if Offense came to play!

...and they did not.

[pbmax]

What is up with our RBs today. The O-line isn't doing well so just hit the hole.

That's why only Starks should be in there.

[ThunderDan]

Block in the back? N'est-pas?

[Harlan Huckleby]

Starks looks the best today

[ThunderDan]

I would stop the hurry up offense for the rest of the game at this pont.

[Fritz]

Wow. The offensive line is pathetic today.

[denverYooper]

Well, here's your recipe for a 4QC, a la the Steelers of the mid-late 'oughts.
1.)Play ugly football for 3 quarters and hand the other team 9 points.
2.)Defense keeps game within reach.
3.)???????

[pbmax]

...and they did not.

This is going to be another Bye Week change the offense season.

[beveaux1]

Happy feet because of great line play by the Lions.

[Harlan Huckleby]

I think Rodgers is getting enough time. The receivers just aren't that good. They're playing the JV secondary.

[Rutnstrut]

Just the worst our offense has looked in ages.

They have looked bad more than they have looked even mediocre this season thus far.

[Freak Out]

RUN A FUCKING SCREEN!

[Fritz]

Game might be slipping away.

[Harlan Huckleby]

menstral cramps again. guess it has been a monnth

[Fritz]

A little early.

[pbmax]

Dammit!

[Harlan Huckleby]

you can't blame this mess on the defense.

I got my poison pen set for receivers

[ThunderDan]

Horrible call Tramon was going for the pick and Megatron ran into him.

[Striker]

A hair too early.

[Rutnstrut]

menstral cramps again. guess it has been a monnth

Don't the trainers have Midol in their kit?

[Harlan Huckleby]

The receivers have seen some bad throws, but have they helped Rodgers with a great catch ever?

[Fritz]

Lions starting to move the ball. Packer offense going into the shitter.

[ThunderDan]

A hair too early.

He was going for the Int not the tackle. That should be O PI if anything at all.

[The Shadow]

I know! A buch of 5th stringers in the secondary - let's run - east & west - against one of the toughest front four's in the league. Horrible playcalling. Also, giving Johnson 12 year cushions is another great idea.

[Rutnstrut]

As far as offense, they let Jones and Jennings go and replaced them with no one.

[Fritz]

Christ Lions fans will be unbearable if they win.

[Freak Out]

M3 is proving he has no answer when the opposition takes away Nelson.

[Harlan Huckleby]

The O-line is getting the worst of it, but I don't think they are overwhelmed.

[Rutnstrut]

I know! A buch of 5th stringers in the secondary - let's run - east & west - against one of the toughest front four's in the league. Horrible playcalling. Also, giving Johnson 12 year cushions is another great idea.

Yet people can't see that coaching is the biggest weak point of this team.

[Harlan Huckleby]

Christ Lions fans will be unbearable if they win.

If the Lions can't blow a 5 point lead, my name ain't Jimminy Cricket.

Stay strong. Packers sitting fine.

[Strange Brew]

No TE, No 3rd receiver and no OL. Gonna be a long season folks! Good thing TT addressed those issues during the off season!!

[Fritz]

The O-line is getting the worst of it, but I don't think they are overwhelmed.

What game are you watching?

[ThunderDan]

DL man no one with the pressure there.

[Harlan Huckleby]

As far as offense, they let Jones and Jennings go and replaced them with no one.

I agree, but party line is Jones was junk.

I miss JJ

[Rutnstrut]

No TE, No 3rd receiver and no OL. Gonna be a long season folks! Good thing TT addressed those issues during the off season!!

Greatest GM in the game, don't forget 2010.

[pbmax]

And Matthews hurt.

[Harlan Huckleby]

What game are you watching?

Vikings - New Orleans. yourself?

[ThunderDan]

Pn, you were wrong on the over/under bet this week.

[pbmax]

Lattimore back in.

[pbmax]

What game are you watching?

Harlan is grading on a curve. He expects better from the WR.

[ThunderDan]

Lattimore has to wrap up on that tackle attempt.

[Rutnstrut]

Is Clay getting a breather, or have his persistent hangnails flared up again?

[Harlan Huckleby]

Harlan is grading on a curve. He expects better from the WR.

Rodgers is getting time. There has been the occasional running lane.

These teeny-boppers in this forum don't know what a real tramping of the O-line looks like.

They never got the switchin they needed.

[Fritz]

Is Clay getting a breather, or have his persistent hangnails flared up again?

You can just see the Lions taking over this game.

And the Packers are supposed to be elite? Defense been good, but this offense - this offensive line - is horrible.

[pbmax]

Hyde blew that with a horrible angle.

[Harlan Huckleby]

BAD BAD play by Neal

[gbgary]

well that's just great.

[pbmax]

Neal with a terrible effort too unless he was running a stunt with Daniels.

[Rutnstrut]

That's some fine tackling.

[beveaux1]

Neal with a terrible effort too unless he was running a stunt with Daniels.

Shouldn't be running a stunt with a yard and a half to go.

[denverYooper]

you can't blame this mess on the defense.

I got my poison pen set for receivers

Agree. Game's not over, but the offense really hung the team out to dry.

[Rutnstrut]

Shouldn't be running a stunt with a yard and a half to go.

Capers probably would.

[Harlan Huckleby]

And the Packers are supposed to be elite? Defense been good, but this offense - this offensive line - is horrible.

I'm calling you out. For rest of game, take notice of whether the line gets overmatched. Most of the time, the line is OK. Now, that is a low bar. But after all of your whining, I want you to watch, learn and feel bad about yourself.

[pbmax]

Shouldn't be running a stunt with a yard and a half to go.

I agree but why crash inside?

[Fritz]

The Packers can't even get a first down, much less two touchdowns.

I believe this game is about over.

Man, I really gotta rethink my opinion of this team. This offensive line has absolutely stunk, stunk, stunk. Receivers have dropped some passes, Rodgers rallying nobody. Lacy a dancing bear now.

[beveaux1]

If you told me our defense would only give up 10 points, I would have said big win for us.

[Rutnstrut]

Fire MM.

[Fritz]

I'm calling you out. For rest of game, take notice of whether the line gets overmatched. Most of the time, the line is OK. Now, that is a low bar. But after all of your whining, I want you to watch, learn and feel bad about yourself.

Okay? Fairley and Suh living in the backfield.

[Tony Oday]

There is your dagger.

[ThunderDan]

Ok, O you have to keep us i this game with a score. No other options.

[pbmax]

I'm calling you out. For rest of game, take notice of whether the line gets overmatched. Most of the time, the line is OK. Now, that is a low bar. But after all of your whining, I want you to watch, learn and feel bad about yourself.

You are on.

[pbmax]

Who got a flag nowhere NEAR the ball carrier?!

Bostick, that's who. Go back to Inactive.

[KalamazooPackerFan]

Just keep running Adams. All our O thinks they can cut back on everything

[Harlan Huckleby]

nice protection boys (the line are the "boys", fritz and pbmax "girls")

[Harlan Huckleby]

nice hole by the boys

[gbgary]

need a td this drive or its over.

[Harlan Huckleby]

quick throw, but good protection

[Harlan Huckleby]

excellent protection. the girls are hiding

[KalamazooPackerFan]

Another east west run! Do they not coach these backs?

[ThunderDan]

Totally had the hole but bounced outside.

[Harlan Huckleby]

get lacy out of there. starks is the man today

[pittstang5]

Thought pop in here. Can't see the game, but don't understand how the packers are losing. Three turnovers for the Pack? And down two scores. Whatever, Pack won't win.

[pbmax]

Harlan Challenge Plays

1 - 3 step quick slant clean

2 -run play up empty middle, Lacy setup nice block by Lang

3 - draw - nothing going on gain of 2

4 - 3 step drop and quick out to Nelson

5 - 5 step drop to Q middle, best pass blocking of half

6 - quick throw to Lacy on big rush from over Bulaga

7 - Lacy looses 3 after hole gets squeezed after Linsley pulls through - Bak beat

8 - shotgun with pump fake has time to slide left, pocket control but not clean

9 - throw to Nelson nothing doing clean pocket

[Guiness]

Not understanding why they can't move the ball. Lions are running street FA's in the defensive backfield, their top LB goes out in the first quarter. What's wrong here?

[KalamazooPackerFan]

Looks like the dagger there

[gbgary]

ugh...you needed 5...5.

[ThunderDan]

Get the first down.

ARod had Adams for an easy first down across the middle.

[Rutnstrut]

Not understanding why they can't move the ball. Lions are running street FA's in the defensive backfield, their top LB goes out in the first quarter. What's wrong here?

The Packers just aren't very good.

[pbmax]

Totally had the hole but bounced outside.

I think Bak got squeezed in there. Linsley barely made it through on pulling lead block.

[Harlan Huckleby]

I say pick-up Jerome Simpson and Tony Gonzalez

[Guiness]

Rodgers missing badly on that throw to Jordy. That was a TD.

[KalamazooPackerFan]

Good replay. Rodgers has been off all three games. Even his wide receiever screens have been behind the reciever.

[Guiness]

How the hell? He was hit at the LOS.

[pbmax]

Terrible.

[Harlan Huckleby]

announcer says "Aaron Rodgers, Jordy Rodgers, and the rest of the Packer Offense."

That's about it.

[Joemailman]

Right now the only game where the Packers offense has looked good is when the Jets didn't double team Jordy. The play of Boykin is really hurting the offense.

[Harlan Huckleby]

Jackie Gleason, Art Carney and the June Taylor Dancers

[Rutnstrut]

Imagine that, Clay is hurt. Good thing they paid him though.

[pbmax]

Jones got buried in turf.

[Harlan Huckleby]

I say forfeit

[ThunderDan]

Det running the four minute O to perfection.

[pbmax]

Green Bay Packers ‏@packers 37s
Clay Matthews is questionable to return with a groin injury. #GBvsDET

[ThunderDan]

Imagine that, Clay is hurt. Good thing they paid him though.

If you hate the team so much why do not you go somewhere else?

[pbmax]

Right now the only game where the Packers offense has looked good is when the Jets didn't double team Jordy. The play of Boykin is really hurting the offense.

Agree.

Their only success ha been with quick throws but neither Rodgers nor receivers have been reliable on them. Drops and off target throws.

[Harlan Huckleby]

If you hate the team so much why do not you go somewhere else?

hear that, Rutnstrut? You gonna take that off of ThunderDan?

[pbmax]

Jason Wilde ‏@jasonjwilde 3m
Davon House back in game after leaving with cramps earlier.

[Harlan Huckleby]

I don't know that ThunderDan is a pussy, Rutnstrut. This could just be a misunderstanding.

[red]

fucking pathetic

[Infamous]

Just so much parity in the league..10-6 and playoffs is attainable

[pbmax]

Get the first down.

ARod had Adams for an easy first down across the middle.

I don't think he trusts the new guys. Boykin had his trust but has literally dropped it. No TE does, except limited Quarless.

[Rutnstrut]

If you hate the team so much why do not you go somewhere else?

It's not hate, it's called realism. I remained a fan through the 70's and 80's but and although I was very young then, I was still a realist. You can still be a fan knowing your team SUCKS!!!!

[pbmax]

Barrington rode his back to a first down.

[ThunderDan]

I don't know that ThunderDan is a pussy, Rutnstrut. This could just be a misunderstanding.

Go away, you have been posting shit to stir the pot a lot lately.

[Harlan Huckleby]

I think that scout who called Green Bay an 8-8 team today might want to re-evaluate.

[Harlan Huckleby]

Go away, you have been posting shit to stir the pot a lot lately.

OK, I'll go away too, Dan.

[Infamous]

I was thinking about McGinn column as well

[red]

I don't think he trusts the new guys. Boykin had his trust but has literally dropped it. No TE does, except limited Quarless.

no, this has been a big problem with a-rod and fat mike for many years IMO

we saw it earlier in the game on 3rd and 2 when they went for the long ball instead of just trying to get the 1st

it happens all the time with those 2, not sure which one shouls take the blame, probably both, but they think home run ball way too much on 3rd and 4th and short

[Bretsky]

I think that scout who called Green Bay an 8-8 team today might want to re-evaluate.

they look like a .500 team

The Lions had a terrible secondary we needed to exploit but the OL was dominated, and as it sometimes occurs then our QB was way off his game.

Aaron Rodgers needs to be great for this team to be very good.

If AROD plays at an average level this team is a .500 squad...maybe....at best

[Harlan Huckleby]

Packers got no passing game. Nothing to backs. Quarless did have some catches. No #2 threat.

[red]

I think that scout who called Green Bay an 8-8 team today might want to re-evaluate.

thinking that too

the offense is really broken. we can't run the ball and a-rod thinks he only has 1 target

[Joemailman]

Packers wasted a very good performance by their defense today.

Red...you're on my ignore list until you change that avatar.

[ThunderDan]

I think we need to scrap the no huddle/hurry up for a while. The O needs to get fixed.

[Fritz]

In the past I maintained that nobody had injuries like the Pack, and this explained many issues of performance. But so far this year they've been healthy, but they look like shit. Soft, yellowish poop.

Lions were decimated in the defensive backfield, but they played well thanks to their d-line. No excuses for the Packers. Their offense just sucked.

[red]

I think we need to scrap the no huddle/hurry up for a while. The O needs to get fixed.

whats with all the shotgun?

you could probably count on one hand the amount of times a-rod lined up under center

i wouldn't say what we run is a hurry up, because we run the clock down to zero on almost every play. but the no huddle doesn't seem to be doing anything at all up to this point

[Fritz]

I agree - they go no huddle, but they take all kinds of time to get lined up, so what's the point?

[George Cumby]

I was away from the Matrix this morning. WtF happened. 19 to fucking 7?

Fat Mike, offensive genius, indeed.

Based on the score alone, the defense is the least of our worries.

[red]

Packers wasted a very good performance by their defense today.

Red...you're on my ignore list until you change that avatar.

hell no, smoky is the man

[pbmax]

Well, the Offense owes the Defense one. Maybe one and a half.

[red]

I was away from the Matrix this morning. WtF happened. 19 to fucking 7?

Fat Mike, offensive genius, indeed.

Based on the score alone, the defense is the least of our worries.

lions defense scored 9 point, well 8. returned fumble for a TD and a safety

our O looked absolutely worthless today in almost every aspect

and our D actually looked really good for most of the game

go figure

[Fritz]

Is Brandon Bostick alive?

[pbmax]

we saw it earlier in the game on 3rd and 2 when they went for the long ball instead of just trying to get the 1st


For the last time, that was not a deep route. It was a quick wheel route with Cobb coming out of the slot. It was a fifteen yard throw, not a bomb.

[pbmax]

I think we need to scrap the no huddle/hurry up for a while. The O needs to get fixed.

I agree. I don't know how you run more plays from that no-huddle when it takes the whole clock to call the adjustments.

[oldbutnotdeadyet]

Well, the Offense owes the Defense one. Maybe one and a half.

Yeah, the problem is most people will say the Packers simply stumbled when running up against a great defense. Well, up until now, the Packers were supposed to have a great offense, so should have at least been competitive against the Lions defense. Instead, they were manhandled, decimated, annihilated....give me a little time to have another drink to come up with some other adjectives.

[red]

For the last time, that was not a deep route. It was a quick wheel route with Cobb coming out of the slot. It was a fifteen yard throw, not a bomb.

is a 15 yard wheel route along the sideline a better option then a short 2 yard slant, or out

i say, fuck no

[George Cumby]

lions defense scored 9 point, well 8. returned fumble for a TD and a safety

our O looked absolutely worthless today in almost every aspect

and our D actually looked really good for most of the game

go figure

Thanks, Red.

So the D gives up ten to the vaunted Lions O in Detroit and the offense couldn't get more than seven.

Wonderful.

[mr_blonde]

Is Brandon Bostick alive?

Is James Starks alive?

Eight carries for 38 yards (4.8 avg) in the first half today - no carries in the second half. This after no carries, no touches last week against the Jets.

What gives????

[pbmax]

I am going to give Harlan 3/4 of a point, and Fritz and I can split 1/4. The O line wasn't a tire fire on the last drive. But it wasn't doing much in the running game and bled throughout the game in pass rush.

But the white knuckle pass pro meant only the short passing game was available and it wasn't working well.

There was no reason to keep sending Lacy in there when Starks was making it work.

[pittstang5]

I still am puzzled how they lost. 3 turnovers?!?!? Very disaapointed and I didnt even get to watch. Wonder what excuse or failed "fix" MM will have this week. This is getting old.

[Fritz]

I am going to give Harlan 3/4 of a point, and Fritz and I can split 1/4. The O line wasn't a tire fire on the last drive. But it wasn't doing much in the running game and bled throughout the game in pass rush.

But the white knuckle pass pro meant only the short passing game was available and it wasn't working well.

There was no reason to keep sending Lacy in there when Starks was making it work.



Why is it that every year Fat Mike needs to do a midseason re-tooling? I know constant evaluation is needed, but he seems to need half a season to figure it out. He even said in his pregame that it was an early season game, teams still feeling each other out. I don't hear other coaches with that attitude.

I don't get this. I've defended TT and MM pretty often, and I said injuries had a lot to do with the teams' less-than-stellar performances, but this was a pretty healthy team getting manhandled by an infury-riddled team. What the hell?

[Carolina_Packer]

3rd and long...day.

That's 3 pretty stout front sevens we've faced in a row. Can they establish a run game vs. the Bears? We'll see. They need to in order to stay in manageable down and distances and keep the chains moving. This is what happens when you can't run the ball and Rodgers is not being his usual amazing self to bail out the offense.

So, absent Bulaga, the Packers have the same O-line as last year, so why are they struggling so badly to run the ball?

[pbmax]

Its partially a function of Thompson. You get good replacement parts, but they are not always the same size or shape as the old ones.

[gbgary]

who would have guessed the o would be our biggest problem. time of possession killed our d towards the end.

[Freak Out]

Were there any adjustments made on the offensive side throughout the game...other than some minor personnel changes at RB?

[Harlan Huckleby]

I'm rewatching the game with the sound off to test my various theories.

It looks like Datone Jone's role often is to tie-up multiple blockers. Lacy really had an off day. Not terrible. The O-line looked OK in first quarter, maybe they slipped later.

[Harlan Huckleby]

Randall Cobb is a darn good punt returner. Leave him there. If he gets hurt, they can find somebody else to not catch passes. Myles White can do his role in a pinch.

[George Cumby]

Why is it that every year Fat Mike needs to do a midseason re-tooling? I know constant evaluation is needed, but he seems to need half a season to figure it out. He even said in his pregame that it was an early season game, teams still feeling each other out. I don't hear other coaches with that attitude.

I don't get this. I've defended TT and MM pretty often, and I said injuries had a lot to do with the teams' less-than-stellar performances, but this was a pretty healthy team getting manhandled by an infury-riddled team. What the hell?

This.

Fat Mikes slow starts are getting old. A win is a win is a win, no matter if it's early or late in the season. Time to get it going, Mike. Two more division games coming up plus NE and NO. It's not going to get any easier.

[digitaldean]

The slow starts are going to bite him in the arse. Last year we lucked out with Detroit and Chicago self destructing. This year Detroit can win the division if they for once stay focused.

The O-Line got bitch slapped today. Two very physical defenses equal 2 beat downs. The yardage going into the 4th quarter was less than 60 yards. Pathetic.

[esoxx]

This.

Fat Mikes slow starts are getting old. A win is a win is a win, no matter if it's early or late in the season. Time to get it going, Mike. Two more division games coming up plus NE and NO. It's not going to get any easier.

Not to mention Carolina. That defense is fierce.

[gbgary]

I think Rodgers/MM are looking for the big too much. he's holding the ball too long looking down field when there's stuff open quick and short. maybe running no-huddle 100% of the time is a problem too.

[George Cumby]

The slow starts are going to bite him in the arse. Last year we lucked out with Detroit and Chicago self destructing. This year Detroit can win the division if they for once stay focused.

Detroit actually has a coach, not an adolescent girl pretending to be a coach. As you say, if they're focused, watch out.

[Harlan Huckleby]

The O-Line got bitch slapped today. Two very physical defenses equal 2 beat downs. The yardage going into the 4th quarter was less than 60 yards. Pathetic.

It seems to be a minority view, but Rodgers mostly had time to pass. Homer on the post game radio show weighed-in with same impression. I re-watched all the offensive series, the offensive line did not get abused most of the time. There were even some running lanes.
The Lions front 7 is very good, Levy looks like an all-pro linebacker. Rodgers had nobody to throw to most of the time, and his throws were off when he tried to squeeze the ball in.

If Rodgers had been able to connect with receivers on some quick slants, people would be saying the offensive line held their own. Starks was gouging them, if he had more carries the running game would look good.

[esoxx]

I think part of the reason for the overly negative perception of the OL today stems from the complete whiff by Lang for the safety on Lacy. That was glariing.

But Rodgers had enough time to throw in general. There were plays to be made, they just didn't make them.

[red]

I think Rodgers/MM are looking for the big too much. he's holding the ball too long looking down field when there's stuff open quick and short. maybe running no-huddle 100% of the time is a problem too.

are we not running plays with a check down dump off? or is rodgers not looking for one?

you noticed staford would look long but after awhile he would dump it off to a RB who would be wide open, usually gaining at least some positive yards. a-rod holds on forever looking deep, the scrambles, looks deep some more before taking a sack

is the check down guy not there? is he always covered? is a-rod not checking down? he does seem to be locking onto his targets more. maybe he only really does trust jordy. maybe more playing time in pre season might have fixed that problem?

[Joemailman]

I think Rodgers/MM are looking for the big too much. he's holding the ball too long looking down field when there's stuff open quick and short. maybe running no-huddle 100% of the time is a problem too.

I think they need to scrap or at least reduce the no-huddle. With Jones and Finley gone, they need to get production out of Adams and R. Rodgers. I don't think those guys know the offense well enough yet to be productive with the accelerated pace of the no-huddle. And yes, Rodgers is sometimes holding the ball too long because he wants to go downfield. That is an old story.

[red]

I think part of the reason for the overly negative perception of the OL today stems from the complete whiff by Lang for the safety on Lacy. That was glariing.

But Rodgers had enough time to throw in general. There were plays to be made, they just didn't make them.

there was also, i think it was the suh sack. where the replayed suh making the sack while both lindsay and lang were laying on their bellies from the spot where suh just came. they didn't show the whole replay. did they both just fall down? did suh make both of them his bitch?

it looked, not good

[wist43]

I missed the game... couldn't get it here, and I was too hungover to go watch it somewhere else, lol...

Based on the commentary here, and looking at the play-by-play and the stat line - it looks like they spanked up on both sides of the LOS - entirely predictable. I had the score at 45-31... so had the spread about right, but couldn't have guessed at such a low scoring game.

Stafford killed me in fantasy!!!! and I sat Bush :(

Anyway, sounds like MM has determined to remain as passive up front on the LOS as possible... did he run any power plays, or just more of his ZBS crap??

The defense force 3 TO's, so that was a positive - but of course we got dominated in TOP 38:13 to 21:47.

Well a 1-2 start... probably a 1-3 start after we go to Chicago. We'll likely be an underdog I would imagine.

[red]

I missed the game... couldn't get it here, and I was too hungover to go watch it somewhere else, lol...

Based on the commentary here, and looking at the play-by-play and the stat line - it looks like they spanked up on both sides of the LOS - entirely predictable. I had the score at 45-31... so had the spread about right, but couldn't have guessed at such a low scoring game.

Stafford killed me in fantasy!!!! and I sat Bush :(

Anyway, sounds like MM has determined to remain as passive up front on the LOS as possible... did he run any power plays, or just more of his ZBS crap??

The defense force 3 TO's, so that was a positive - but of course we got dominated in TOP 38:13 to 21:47.

Well a 1-2 start... probably a 1-3 start after we go to Chicago. We'll likely be an underdog I would imagine.

one thing you can say for sure is that it wasn't the defenses fault today

the offense was solely responsible for this loss

[denverYooper]

one thing you can say for sure is that it wasn't the defenses fault today

the offense was solely responsible for this loss

The offense scored 16 points... too bad 9 of those were for the Lions.

[Teamcheez1]

The offense scored 16 points... too bad 9 of those were for the Lions.

It's absolutely stunning. If you told any of us that the defense would hold Detroit to 10 points, we would have expected the Packers to win by 3 touchdowns. How far our offense has fallen off this year.

[pbmax]

I think part of the reason for the overly negative perception of the OL today stems from the complete whiff by Lang for the safety on Lacy. That was glariing.

But Rodgers had enough time to throw in general. There were plays to be made, they just didn't make them.

The other thing that happened in pass pro was that he rarely could move in the pocket. Twice he tried and was sacked both times.

To have extra time, he had to bail left of right.

[channtheman]

3 things. MM for the second week in a row made a bonehead decision before halftime. This week it was to call timeouts before the half. He has done this before, and it rarely (if ever) works. I called out to my family that MM has called timeouts thinking his offense can score in the past and it never works and then he did it, and it nearly cost us a field goal. Just because it didn't hurt us, doesn't make it not a bad call by him.

MM deciding to run from the one yard line. Everyone in our room was saying we better not run. Then we ran and it was a safety.

Finally, Rodgers taking sacks sucks. Rodgers taking sacks when we are in field goal range really sucks. Rodgers had ample time today. He also could have moved out of the pocket to avoid sacks today as well.

Our defense did everything they could today to win. Our offense did everything they could to lose. Sucky game, and perhaps we are an 8-8 team.

[Rutnstrut]

Is James Starks alive?

Eight carries for 38 yards (4.8 avg) in the first half today - no carries in the second half. This after no carries, no touches last week against the Jets.

What gives????

What gives? Fat Mike is what, Starks was working so of course stubby goes away from him.

[denverYooper]

3 things. MM for the second week in a row made a bonehead decision before halftime. This week it was to call timeouts before the half. He has done this before, and it rarely (if ever) works. I called out to my family that MM has called timeouts thinking his offense can score in the past and it never works and then he did it, and it nearly cost us a field goal. Just because it didn't hurt us, doesn't make it not a bad call by him.

MM deciding to run from the one yard line. Everyone in our room was saying we better not run. Then we ran and it was a safety.

Finally, Rodgers taking sacks sucks. Rodgers taking sacks when we are in field goal range really sucks. Rodgers had ample time today. He also could have moved out of the pocket to avoid sacks today as well.

Our defense did everything they could today to win. Our offense did everything they could to lose. Sucky game, and perhaps we are an 8-8 team.

MM needs to self scout and never call that TO before half when he thinks they *might* get the ball back. It often seems to end in disaster.

[wist43]

The safety... as I said, I didn't watch the game, but I saw that lowlight.

That situation demands a pass b/c of how our OL is built - MM should know that. Especially going against a super-stout, physical DL like Detroits.

Our Offensive Linemen are picked b/c they are good mirror blockers. Supposed to have good feet in pass pro, supposed to work well in the ZBS. None of them is a drive blocker, and none of them can get movement off the snap. They can't get movement against bad defensive lines, let alone an excellent DL like Detroits.

"Know thyself'... MM should know enough about his own players to know that he simply cannot call a run in that situation, b/c it is entirely likely that his RB is going to be met in the backfield, i.e. the end zone.

Stupid play call... coaches not putting their players in position to be successful. Usually that charge is made against dunderdummy - but in this case, MM is guilty. That safety was on him, not the players.

[Freak Out]

Has Slocum been fired yet?

[pbmax]

MM needs to self scout and never call that TO before half when he thinks they *might* get the ball back. It often seems to end in disaster.

He admitted it was a risky call and shouldn't have been made, but wasn't very specific about just want was riskier than his normal call in that spot. There was virtually no time left and it was 3rd and 7. If not then, when?

[pbmax]

The safety... as I said, I didn't watch the game, but I saw that lowlight.

That situation demands a pass b/c of how our OL is built - MM should know that. Especially going against a super-stout, physical DL like Detroits.

Our Offensive Linemen are picked b/c they are good mirror blockers. Supposed to have good feet in pass pro, supposed to work well in the ZBS. None of them is a drive blocker, and none of them can get movement off the snap. They can't get movement against bad defensive lines, let alone an excellent DL like Detroits.

"Know thyself'... MM should know enough about his own players to know that he simply cannot call a run in that situation, b/c it is entirely likely that his RB is going to be met in the backfield, i.e. the end zone.

Stupid play call... coaches not putting their players in position to be successful. Usually that charge is made against dunderdummy - but in this case, MM is guilty. That safety was on him, not the players.

Rodgers got blown up and Lang whiffed. That's on the players. Bulaga made his block. Both Bulaga and Bach can run block.

[Striker]

I think they need to say "f it" and get Adams and Janis playing time. If none of the other guys want to step up, see if the rooks are ready.

I know there's all these nuances, etc etc etc that they need to get, but other teams are managing with their rookie receivers.

[wist43]

Rodgers got blown up and Lang whiffed. That's on the players. Bulaga made his block. Both Bulaga and Bach can run block.

lol... seriously??

None of those guys is a drive blocker - and no, Buluga can't drive block, Bach can't drive block, Lang can't drive block, and Sitton can't drive block. The Green Bay Packers do not allow run blocking OL on the roster.

They are all student body run blockers, and dancing bear pass blockers. Period.

Our offensive linemen "whiffing" and getting "blown up" is exactly what would be expected in that situation, and that is exactly what we got.

The philosophy is what lands guys like that on our roster, and the play call was idiotic b/c the result we saw was entirely predictable.

[pittstang5]

Has Slocum been fired yet?

Wednesday is coming

[pbmax]

lol... seriously??

None of those guys is a drive blocker - and no, Buluga can't drive block, Bach can't drive block, Lang can't drive block, and Sitton can't drive block. The Green Bay Packers do not allow run blocking OL on the roster.

They are all student body run blockers, and dancing bear pass blockers. Period.

Our offensive linemen "whiffing" and getting "blown up" is exactly what would be expected in that situation, and that is exactly what we got.

The philosophy is what lands guys like that on our roster, and the play call was idiotic b/c the result we saw was entirely predictable.

This is the fundamental problem with your entire oeuvre. You repeated claim one thing and then glom onto any negative result as proof of concept.

Here is a Vine video of the safety. https://twitter.com/TyDunne/status/514073401116598272

No one is being asked to drive block here. There are two other problems, but neither is drive blocking. If Mad is reding it would be lovely to be able to embed Vine videos in the future.

[pbmax]

Wednesday is coming

That's the new TV series from HBO next year.

Game of Inches: Wednesday Is Coming

[Joemailman]

This is the fundamental problem with your entire oeuvre. You repeated claim one thing and then glom onto any negative result as proof of concept.

Here is a Vine video of the safety. https://twitter.com/TyDunne/status/514073401116598272

No one is being asked to drive block here. There are two other problems, but neither is drive blocking. If Mad is reding it would be lovely to be able to embed Vine videos in the future.

What was Lang doing on that play? It almost looked like he was looking for someone else to block, and then too late realized he needed to block the linebacker.

[hoosier]

What was Lang doing on that play? It almost looked like he was looking for someone else to block, and then too late realized he needed to block the linebacker.

It almost looked to me like Lang was pulling and looking for someone outside the LE to block, but then Lacy had to try to turn it inside when the TE let himself get pushed into the backfield. Assuming the play was designed to go outside, if R.Rodgers gets a decent block and if Lacy doesn't get dragged down from behind by Levy (not clear whether he could have avoided him), that could have been a monster gain.

[Joemailman]

It almost looked to me like Lang was pulling and looking for someone outside the LE to block, but then Lacy had to try to turn it inside when the TE let himself get pushed into the backfield. Assuming the play was designed to go outside, if R.Rodgers gets a decent block and if Lacy doesn't get dragged down from behind by Levy (not clear whether he could have avoided him), that could have been a monster gain.

If what you're describing is accurate, that's an awfully dangerous play to be running out of your own endzone. Especially given the struggles R.Rodgers has had with his blocking.

[3irty1]

That safety play was outrageous. It looked like Madden's AI was controlling the right side of that line. Dick Rodgers looked like he was blocking a grenade, Lang was blocking air. If Tom Crabtree is on this team, there is no safety.

Also what a great slice of luck picking off a ball to the 1 yard line. I think everyone knew when that happened that Stafford had just thrown a 2 point TD pass. The Lions drive after the field position from the safety kick led to 3 points as well so you could blame that on the offense as well. The fact that the defense only gave up what it did despite against 40 minutes of lions offense is goddamn spectacular. What a waste of a great performance from the D.

[pbmax]

What was Lang doing on that play? It almost looked like he was looking for someone else to block, and then too late realized he needed to block the linebacker.

That is the first question:

1. I think Lang was supposed to double the DE and kick him out. Almost a trap action. In mid-stride, he sees Levy hurtling through the hole Bulaga has created by blocking down on the DT. He stops to try to get a piece of him and misses. In the end, he might have been better of doubling the DE and giving Lacy a chance at getting by Levy himself. As it was, Lang made the hole even smaller and Levy's job was easier. But its easy to see what Lang was trying to prevent, a free body destroying the play in the backfield for a safety.

Second question:

2. Normally, I would expect the center to explode and go get the LB which would be tough because he is reading Lacy and will immediately head to the O's right. Linsley will be chasing that backer. But since its a short yardage play, he just needs to slow him down to help Lacy get something. But as it plays out, it looks like Sitton is using the same trap action to chase the LB. Linsley is blocking down. Now pulling Sitton would be in a good position to seal off the other ILB, but he's never going to get near Levy.

Its possible Bulaga was supposed to slide off the DT and catch Levy, meaning Linsley should have stayed with his most had on man for a quick double with Bulaga.

Its either the worst run call for that defensive alignment, in which case someone should have bailed on it OR someone blew a call or assignment. It might be the young center should have changed the line call.

[pbmax]

It almost looked to me like Lang was pulling and looking for someone outside the LE to block, but then Lacy had to try to turn it inside when the TE let himself get pushed into the backfield. Assuming the play was designed to go outside, if R.Rodgers gets a decent block and if Lacy doesn't get dragged down from behind by Levy (not clear whether he could have avoided him), that could have been a monster gain.

I don't think it was designed to go outside, it was designed to be run off-tackle. I would bet Lang was doubling the DE with Rodgers.

[The Shadow]

I think they need to say "f it" and get Adams and Janis playing time. If none of the other guys want to step up, see if the rooks are ready.

I know there's all these nuances, etc etc etc that they need to get, but other teams are managing with their rookie receivers.

Agree. I think Janis should play against Chicago. Then, if they try to do what the Lions did & take away Jordy, we will have Jordy 2.o on the other side.

[pbmax]

Of all the plays he did take wide, he would have been well served to take that one outside.

[hoosier]

I will defer to the experts on the blocking scheme question. The one thing I do know is that next time GB is backed up against its goal line, the first down play call is going to be a pass. :-)

[wist43]

This is the fundamental problem with your entire oeuvre. You repeated claim one thing and then glom onto any negative result as proof of concept.

Here is a Vine video of the safety. https://twitter.com/TyDunne/status/514073401116598272

No one is being asked to drive block here. There are two other problems, but neither is drive blocking. If Mad is reding it would be lovely to be able to embed Vine videos in the future.

What needed to be done there, if you have an OL that can drive block - which we don't - and if you're going to call a run, is straight ahead drive block, hat on hat, and move the LOS 1-3 yds; do it again on 2nd down, and you're 3rd down on the 5 yd line.

Either that, or pass it.

What we saw, was MM getting cute with Bulaga blocking down (and whiffing), and Lang jumping out, presumably to kick out, but the ILB closed so fast that he was compromised - the play call takes some development and cooperation from the defense - which of course is a recipe for allowing penetration and risking the safety - which is what happened.

No, we didn't drive block anyone, b/c we don't have any running plays in the playbook that call for drive blocking - why?? Because we don't have any drive blockers, and MM doesn't believe in power running.

MM wants to "influence" defensive players - and to be sure there is a place for that in designing plays; he wants to move the POA along the LOS east/west, and hope the defense overruns the cutback, or doesn't marshall enough at the POA and the RB can simply go wherever the hole might be. MM doesn't design running plays to create specific holes, and he doesn't require that his offensive linemen win battles at the LOS. It's all about positioning, and walling off, and pretty much just trying to get in the way of the defenders.

The ZBS is easy to defend - especially now that they've outlawed that chop block that used to drive Gilbert Brown insane - and rightfully so.

Now, since I didn't see the game - how many running plays had OL pulling, trapping, sweeps?? Did MM simply trot out his vaunted 3 zone plays, and that was it??

[pbmax]

1. They have not made the in line cut block that the Broncos used illegal. And the chop block is not illegal in running plays except in very specific situations.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chop_block_(gridiron_football)

2. It wasn't a ZBS play, it was a trap but something went bad elsewhere. Trap blocking has won Super Bowls since before there was a Silverdome, much less Ford Field.

3. Bulaga doesn't whiff.

4. Drive blocking fails as well if there is an unblocked guy.

[wist43]

1. They have not made the in line cut block that the Broncos used illegal. And the chop block is not illegal in running plays except in very specific situations.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chop_block_(gridiron_football)

2. It wasn't a ZBS play, it was a trap but something went bad elsewhere. Trap blocking has won Super Bowls since before there was a Silverdome, much less Ford Field.

3. Bulaga doesn't whiff.

4. Drive blocking fails as well if there is an unblocked guy.

Pretty sure I remember them saying they were going to make that cut block illegal?? It absolutely should be - don't know how it can be legal to ram your helmet into the back of a guys knee... when it used to happen to Gilbert all the time, you'd look at it and think, '... that can't be legal'; and then the announcers would go on and on about how it was legal - go figure.

If I were playing against Mark Schlereth - his career would have ended many years before it did, b/c the first time he did that to me, I'd chop him in the fucking throat, and spit on him as he choked to death on the field.

As for the disasterous play that MM called - you seem to think a slow developing play in that situation is a fine idea - so, have at it, it's all yours man.

If I had the kind of players we have on our OL - I wouldn't have even considered running it there... would have been a pass all the way. If that were incomplete, I would have passed on 2nd down, and 3rd down. If they go incomplete?? Then Detroit is gonna get the ball back on the 35 yd line, and go about playing defense. It is what it is... not a good situation, but for my money, the one thing you don't do is call a passive, slow developing run play.

You seem to like passive football though... as do most Packerrats it would seem.

[channtheman]

Pretty sure I remember them saying they were going to make that cut block illegal?? It absolutely should be - don't know how it can be legal to ram your helmet into the back of a guys knee... when it used to happen to Gilbert all the time, you'd look at it and think, '... that can't be legal'; and then the announcers would go on and on about how it was legal - go figure.

If I were playing against Mark Schlereth - his career would have ended many years before it did, b/c the first time he did that to me, I'd chop him in the fucking throat, and spit on him as he choked to death on the field.

As for the disasterous play that MM called - you seem to think a slow developing play in that situation is a fine idea - so, have at it, it's all yours man.

If I had the kind of players we have on our OL - I wouldn't have even considered running it there... would have been a pass all the way. If that were incomplete, I would have passed on 2nd down, and 3rd down. If they go incomplete?? Then Detroit is gonna get the ball back on the 35 yd line, and go about playing defense. It is what it is... not a good situation, but for my money, the one thing you don't do is call a passive, slow developing run play.

You seem to like passive football though... as do most Packerrats it would seem.


I'd add "passive 'predictable' football." When myself and my family can accurately predict the negative outcomes of plays before they happen, it's clear we are getting way too predictable. And it's not like we predicted bad outcomes the entire game. Just see my post a page or 2 back and see how dumb/stubborn MM is.

[Carolina_Packer]

I'd add "passive 'predictable' football." When myself and my family can accurately predict the negative outcomes of plays before they happen, it's clear we are getting way too predictable. And it's not like we predicted bad outcomes the entire game. Just see my post a page or 2 back and see how dumb/stubborn MM is.

It's easy to second guess. Fans just want better results. Someone put a vine on another thread that showed the safety play on a loop. Not sure why Richard Rodgers was in at TE in that spot when he is clearly not the blocker that Quarless is. Rodgers gets blown up on the play and Lacy seems to have his vision into the line, but there appears to be a pretty good sized open area to his right if he just bounces it to the right of the line. He probably would have gotten a few yards of breathing room.

I'm not so worried a giving up plays like this on occasion, when the bigger issue making the run game work consistently throughout the game. That will only help the passing game. MM and AR have had a sub-par running game in he past and AR was able to overcome because he had more overall talent at WR/TE. We are in a bit of a lull overall at those positions. We'll get great play from Jordy, probably Cobb eventually, but who after that?

[Maxie the Taxi]

We'll get great play from Jordy, probably Cobb eventually, but who after that?

I'm pulling for Janis. The guy did all you asked him to do in preseason. Now all he needs is a chance. I know I sound like a broken record, but you can't coach height and speed. Janis has both.

[pbmax]

I'm pulling for Janis. The guy did all you asked him to do in preseason. Now all he needs is a chance. I know I sound like a broken record, but you can't coach height and speed. Janis has both.

He was really hurt by being ill. Shingles, the professional athlete's menace.

[Joemailman]

If they're going to activate Janis, they're probably going to have to go with 5 WR's. Because of the time he missed, he may not know enough of the offense to be #4.

[ThunderDan]

Some fun posts here too.