49ers 24 Packers 21: Game Balls & Lame Calls
Fourth quarter collapse ends improbable run.
By KenLass
The most impressive thing about the way these young Green Bay Packers had been playing over the past month was the poise and clutch execution they had been showing. But somehow it all disappeared in the fourth quarter of their divisional playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers.
The entire team played its worst football in the critical final fifteen minutes and succumbed to the number one seed 24-21. All three phases share the blame. Special teams missed a 41 yard field goal, the defense gave up a twelve play, 69 yard touchdown drive, and the offense sputtered, capped off by Jordan Love launching a horrendous late throw over the middle which was picked off by Dre Greenlaw to end it.
Similar to their loss to these same Niners two years ago at Lambeau, this was a game the Packers owned for three quarters. But when the outcome was on the line, the bottom line is Brock Purdy got it done, and Jordan Love didn’t. It feels like these two quarterbacks will play many crucial games against each other for years to come, and maybe in the future the result will be different. But for now the score is Purdy one, Love zero.
What can’t be ignored is the fact that the Packers are much closer to being a Super Bowl team than any of us dreamed. They took on the best team in the conference, a team playing at home with two weeks rest, in a driving rain, and had them on the ropes. Another solid draft, perhaps a couple of wise free agent additions, a new defensive coordinator, and it just might be enough to push this talented collection past opponents such as this. That “rebuild” we were all talking about six months ago seems to be deep in the rear view mirror.
GAME BALLS
Aaron Jones
His fifth consecutive 100 yard rushing performance. His 53 yard run in the fourth quarter to bail the Packers out of bad field position should have set the team up for the points that would have put the game away. What a tear he has been on since week sixteen. Jones will have a very interesting offseason. His cap hit next year is a problem. Will he take yet another pay cut to stay? Or do you extend him and risk a long term commitment to a running back over 30 years old? We can only hope it works out. Hard not to love this guy.
Kenny Clark
Big guy came to play. Five tackles, a sack, a quarterback hit, and terrific hustle sideline to sideline. Perhaps unlike his youthful teammates, Clark understands how rare it is to be in this post season position. The future holds no guarantees. He played like it was his last chance. He was a leader and inspired the entire unit for three quarters.
Honorable mention to Eric Wilson, whose alert recovery of a fumble after Keisean Nixon’s long kickoff return saved the opportunity for the final touchdown pass to Tucker Kraft. Also to Bo Melton for his excellent footwork in the back of the end zone on the 19 yard score in the third quarter.
LAME CALLS
Back End Failures
Once again it seems likely the Packers will be taking defensive backs early in their draft. They need better safeties. Darnell Savage dropped a sure pick six, then got toasted by George Kittle for a 32 yard touchdown pass. Then in the third quarter Savage whiffed on Christian McCaffery, opening the gate for his 40 yard score. The defensive strategy was to force the Niners to throw the ball in front of them, but that does no good if you can’t tackle after the catch, and Green Bay’s secondary tackling was terrible.
Lack of Sacks
The pass rush buzzed around Purdy all night, but just couldn’t quite get home. Purdy seemed rattled at times, and was pressured into some bad throws. But he was sacked only once and had plenty of time to complete six of seven throws on the go-ahead drive. The Packers desperately needed a sack in the final quarter, but the pass rushers seemed to wear down toward the end. Whatever happened to Rashan Gary?
Anders Carlson
We all knew that, at some point, he was going to miss a kick that would kill us. I get it. The Packers need a kicker on a low money contract for cap purposes, but the team can do better than this. Six missed extra points and now this. He’s simply not consistent enough. He wasn’t consistent in college and he isn’t now. He needs to compete for his job against somebody else in training camp this summer. And let’s find a better long snapper as well.
THREE AND OUT
-- As bad as the fourth quarter was, an argument can be made that Green Bay actually lost this game in the first half, after coming away with just two field goals in three trips to the red zone. The offensive line did not hold up in pass protection when the Packers got close, forcing Love to hurry and miss several throws.
-- Things always look better in hindsight. If Matt LaFleur had chosen to kick the field goal in the first quarter when his team faced a fourth and one at the fourteen yard line, it might have turned out to be the difference in the game. As it turned out, he called a quarterback push which came up short. I will confess that, at the time, I thought going for it was the right call. Besides, who knows if Carlson makes the kick?
-- The Joe Barry countdown is on. If LaFleur is going to make the move, he should do it quickly, before all the other teams hire their new head coaches and start filling out their staffs. There’s no question Barry’s defense played better down the stretch, but still failed in the end when the team needed them to preserve the game. We can do better. We have to.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
Ken Lass is a former Green Bay television sports anchor and 43 year media veteran, a lifelong Packers fan, and a shareholder.
__________________________
Comments (190)
Mr_Bill_H
January 21, 2024 at 07:10 am
wash-rinse-repeat
Gman1976
January 21, 2024 at 10:43 am
I could not help but think the same exact words. It's the recipe of failure. If the Packer management it going to reward a special teamer who failed during the regular season to play in the playoffs (like we have in the past), and if they are going to reward a DC that repeatedly loses close games in crunch time, and if they are reward a HC who isn't going to make the hard choices with personnel to win, we will see the same results over & over.
croatpackfan
January 21, 2024 at 01:01 pm
MLF pick his staff, not management nor GM. So, stop accusing people who has no authority to change coordinators. That is the job of HC.
badaxed
January 21, 2024 at 09:37 pm
MLF has two bosses. They may not hire people but there is one person they can fire if they are not listened to.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 11:00 pm
He only reports to Murphy. So do you mean God?
EnemyTerritory
January 21, 2024 at 12:00 pm
Indeed. A little bit of everything. The lack of TDs and taking FGs ala the Seattle playoff loss. Special teams mess up ala the 49ers. And just for kicks, an off foot over the middle cross field INT aka #4 to end a playoff run. God I love this team!
Strat
January 21, 2024 at 12:07 pm
That's the unfortunate and obvious truth.
Minniman
January 21, 2024 at 12:53 pm
I posted the same thing in "gut reactions" and it's timely to reprint:
Darnell Savage had a bad game - business decision made on the first McCaffrey TD (chop block technique tackle) and blown coverage on the Kittle TD...... added to the dropped INT.
Owens made the same chop block technique attempt on McCaffrey's 2nd TD - with the same result.
Whomever is teaching that tackling technique needs to be shown the door.
Other than those event's the rest of the D played a very good game.
Before people load up on the D, people need to acknowledge that the 49ers aren't the Bears, and they are going to score points.
I know it's a cliche, but in big games, little things matter.
P.S - I also noticed Campbell on the sidelines on a critical 3rd and long - the one when Walker was in the medical tent. Predictably, the 9ers converted.
egbertsouse
January 21, 2024 at 07:19 am
Was Gary even playing that last drive? It seems like it was Smith and LVN. Your $20 million dollar man should be playing at crunch time.
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 08:35 am
To quote the Raven or lets just say the pre draft analyst packer fans never listened to "Gary goes missing in big games" That was his rep at M to avoid the games he would be embarassed in to look better for the draft.
He is a lazy player aka Perry like. Now a rich Perry.
Oppy
January 21, 2024 at 12:50 pm
You are an absolute moron.
Truly, the most ill informed takes on a regular basis.
LLCHESTY
January 21, 2024 at 02:50 pm
Vikings fan so....
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
January 22, 2024 at 01:34 pm
Oh please. Gary nearly won the 2021 playoff game vs 49ers singlehandedly. Id be willing to bet hes playing through some kind of injury.
Minniman
January 21, 2024 at 01:05 pm
I'd have to take a look, but sometimes offensive teams will play hurry up to keep a less desirable combination on the field.
I mentioned above, there were a couple of other vexing personnel decisions - Campbell off the field on a critical 3rd and long. Campbell had want to watch out, McDuffie is fast becoming a good starting combo with Walker.
Malland56
January 21, 2024 at 01:33 pm
Where has Gary been the last 4 games?
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 05:23 pm
He did have four pressures and a team-high four run stops. If we missed a beat it was underusing Brooks who had 4 hurries on only 16 rush snaps. Think we possibly over used the starters and it bit us again after the O took up almost no time after the first second half score (the second was 4? plays)?
DoubleJ
January 22, 2024 at 11:16 am
I think it is just possible that Gary has worn down as the season went on. Remember he is only a little more than a year removed from an ACL injury so playing 19 games this season might have been too much and he just got tired. Next year with a full off season to condition and train might be all he needs to become more dominant on a play to play setting again.
Booner
January 21, 2024 at 05:33 pm
Gary gets gassed and disappears at the end of games!
jvole
January 21, 2024 at 07:20 am
Someone in comments awhile ago mentioned that they think Gary never got into full playing shape because of extended off-season rehab. We will see if next year he can keep up for four quarters.
I thought that our o-line played well against a terrific d-line. Jordan had time on a lot of plays where eventually he was pressured, but he did have time. No o-line in the league is going to hold back that front for more than 2.5 seconds.
Yes, Savage needs to be replaced. Missed tackles is the most consistent feature of his game.
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 08:37 am
LOve didnt have the time he had in Dallas. The coach of the Niners is smarter then McCarthy and determined the only way to beat Love was to blitz him and take your chances. The problem with the game came down to our blitz was weak and we barely got to Purdy.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 10:35 am
The middle right of the line came back to haunt us. Yes, we didn’t give up sacks, but it still derailed us. Foreseeable against that defensive front, but predictable. Losing Tom made it worse but actually it was inside that again let us down most. Time to be honest with ourselves about Myers/Runyon/Rhyan. We need upgrades not more excuses,
jannesbjornson
January 21, 2024 at 11:40 am
Nijman didn't help the cause.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 01:43 pm
Nijman isn’t going to be here. No point in worrying about him now.
Oppy
January 21, 2024 at 12:53 pm
Tell me what you think a blitz is, then tell me how many downs you believe the 9ers blitzed Love?
Tekraut17
January 22, 2024 at 07:41 am
Toms going out hurt us severely. Even though they didn't sack JL he was hurried and harassed with Nijman in there.
Malland56
January 21, 2024 at 01:34 pm
What about Owens? All this guy does is shoulder tackle
ChrisD
January 22, 2024 at 07:22 am
Not true! He has been one of our most solid tackler. But agreed that was bad
gsd3
January 21, 2024 at 07:28 am
While there is definitely room for improvement, never expected them to get this far.
Hopes for next year:
Carlson improves or is replaced by someone better.
Van Ness learns more pass rush moves.
Secondary is upgraded with guys who can cover, tackle, and make plays on the ball.
New DC.
Healthy Watson and Stokes...or move on.
Jones stays and back up spot is upgraded.
cpabandit
January 21, 2024 at 09:03 am
Great column Ken and I agree with you on everything you wrote except for one comment. Both you and gsd3 said to give Carlson an opportunity to compete. Let's not forget that he was not the 10th worst, nor the 5th worst. He was THE WORST in the entire league! He cost the Packers wins during the season which hurt the Packers in seeding. Do we allow him to compete in three games or five or when he reaches a certain number of games he personally lost? He was THE WORST! He rarely kicks off into the end zone!! Get rid of him now! And concerning the secondary, they must be taught to tackle with their arms, shoulders and body not just their shoulders.
CheesePuff
January 21, 2024 at 07:34 am
The Packers were overmatched in every facet of the game, except for QB, but pushed the 49rs until the 4th quarter. Great effort, great 2d half of the season, great playoffs, great future - if they make a few necessary moves in the offseason. Go Pack Go!
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
January 22, 2024 at 01:37 pm
They werent overmatched though. That was just the perception going into the game. They showed they very much belong with the best the NFL has to offer. Didnt even come close to playing their best game and still almost won.
Lphill
January 21, 2024 at 07:36 am
No moral victories game belonged to the Packers , missed kick we all knew would happen, coaching mistakes early on by MLF , history repeats itself just like,when special teams did us in against the 49 ers, because of Maurice Drayton ,did Barry blitz at all on the final drive?
NickPerry
January 21, 2024 at 07:41 am
Nope but his CBs were at least 8 yards off.
Guam
January 21, 2024 at 09:22 am
Yup. Same old Barry. I almost threw something at the TV last night when it was third and two for the 49ers and Barry rushes three and drops eight and the CBs still played 6-7 yards off the line. Purdy had an easy completion for the first down in a quick pass to the flat.
How do you drop eight and still play the CBs off the line? Just dumb! Play press man with your CBs and zone behind them and make the QB force a throw.
I think the Packers need to replace both safeties and draft an ILB as Campbell is looking a half step slow, but the biggest change needs to be at DC. Barry finds ways to lose games and the Packers will never be Super Bowl contenders as long as he is the DC.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 10:53 am
The frustrating thing is that he can do it. He did it in the first half against Dallas. I think, unfortunately, it’s temperament that just wins out. We just need to take a chance to be better. It’s like having a player who isn’t bad and settling for it. When it counts it bites you. Barry wasn’t the sole reason, by his standards he did quite well, but he was ultimately what he is and that was a factor, as it has been through his time here.
DoubleJ
January 22, 2024 at 11:19 am
When the going gets tough, Barry brings his head back into his shell. Basically he can do stretches of aggressive force your will play calling, but he will always revert to himself in the end, especially with the game on the line.
fthisJack
January 22, 2024 at 08:20 am
Playing not to lose is a sure way to not win. Seattle 2014. Barry 2023.
mnbadger
January 21, 2024 at 09:41 am
when we blitzed we got stonewalled.
The worst combination of no pressure and not enough bodies in coverage.
Bye jb, don't let the door hit you on the way out.
GPG!
fthisJack
January 22, 2024 at 08:22 am
And don't drag you feet until all the good candidates are gone. NOW is the time MLF!
JJB
January 21, 2024 at 07:44 am
Should of took the points early. As for Love the IQ level is below average. No way u throw that INT at end of the game. One thing I'm done with on this team is Watson. What a bust. Complete waste of two 2nd round picks. He and Carlson must be replaced but they won't. Now as a official for the last 25 yrs something wasn't right in this game. Before the TD that was 100% I intentionally grounding by Prudy. It would of made it 3rd and 20plus. And the ball spotting for the Packers was pathetic. Lucky there was a clear shot on the review which makes the spot by the official more concerning. That crew should never see a playoff game again
mnbadger
January 21, 2024 at 09:48 am
Totally agree on the non-grounding call.
I thought I was the only one to see poor spotting.
Most all of the bad spots went against us, and seemed to occur on 3rd down.
There were a couple in our favor though, nothing of consequence.
We lost, but the missed grounding call was significant.
TV guys commented that there wasn't a receiver within the camera lens and prdy was in the dead center of the pocket with the wall collapsing.
?
GPG!
DoubleJ
January 22, 2024 at 11:23 am
You could hear the ref saying why it wasn't grounding. "The QB was throwing the ball away so it isn't grounding." Never did he say that Purdy was out of the pocket (he wasn't) OR that a receiver was in the area (evidence by no one within 25 yards of the throw). What made that non call even worse is that Fox never showed a replay and the announcers never said anything about it either. Almost like they were told on their headset to not speak a word about it because it would cause controversy if people saw what actually happened.
Oppy
January 21, 2024 at 12:59 pm
Tell me what you are basing this assessment of Love's IQ being being below average on? You're basing it on one bad decision?
All Love did throughout 2023 was demonstrate he understands how defenses are trying to attack him, he understands how to key off of them pre-snap, he understands how his offense creates match up problems and how to leverage his offense to take advantage of the defense, and by and large through the season, he's proven he generally doesn't make poor decisions on the field.
With a comment like this about Love's IQ, and the claim that you've been "an official" for the last 25 years", it's starting to make sense why officiating is at an all time low in professional sports.
13TimeChamps
January 21, 2024 at 01:21 pm
If throwing an INT in the 4th quarter of a playoff game demonstrates low IQ, I'd be curious to see what he thinks of Favre's IQ.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 01:44 pm
Or Rodgers, if we are honest.
LeotisHarris
January 21, 2024 at 02:00 pm
"Should of took the points ..."
"One thing I'm done with on this team is Watson."
"It would of made it .."
Behold! A small selection of abuse of the English language from the herky-jerky word salad posted above. It's good to know you've put yourself in charge of determining the IQ level of other people, JJB.
fthisJack
January 22, 2024 at 08:26 am
JJB...step off the ledge dude. There is a tomorrow and it will be better. This team has a lot of growing to do yet and will be better next year.
DoubleJ
January 22, 2024 at 11:24 am
Almost sounds like stockholder got a new handle with this rant.
fireball
January 21, 2024 at 07:53 am
Yeah, where was Rashan Gary with his average annual salary of 24 million?
And Savage's missed tackles. . . " What the hell's going on out there? Grab! Grab! Grab! Nobody tackling! "
And in the end, when the Packers needed the stop, Joe Barry's defense could not stop the 49s from scoring to go ahead with one minute left in the game. Same o, same o.
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 11:55 am
Got news for pack fans. Youth doesnt win football games. Skill is the only thing that matters
Johnblood27
January 21, 2024 at 12:03 pm
Golf
Foxtrot
Yankee
Hows that for a news flash?
ChrisD
January 21, 2024 at 01:41 pm
You are truly fucked up behind all recognition. Hahaha. 🤣
SicSemperTyrannis
January 21, 2024 at 07:56 am
Solidifying the O line with depth on the interior should be the priority, to keep JL10 from career ending injury. The way the O line was playing early in the season it's a miracle he was never hurt! He did develop slight happy feet while playing behind a leaky O line and being under pressure so much. He should be able to work out those kinks in the off-season. I also hope he plays catch with the 3 speedsters as a group so he can fine tune his connection to each. Maybe a steadily increasing workload without contact fixes #9's hamstring issue? JL could also play catch with other groupings of targets; if they're all in top form on day 1 of OTAs then DBs start improving right away, and WRs can work on contested catches.
Ken, please compare Mason Crosby's record, Carlson is better until his fifth season. This game had AMPLE opportunities to go up significantly on the scoreboard, one kick that got blown off course is not what determined this game.
Fix the O line next season, have them experienced by 2025, focus on DBs in 2025 and maybe be able to add a FA that season and win it all. DBs will continue improving in the meantime, both those on the roster already and Gutey will continue the churn.
GPG!
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 08:47 am
Yes it was the kick because the decision to draft the possibly worst kicker in college football and take a chance he would screw you by missing a makeable kick means you value saving money and being profitable over winning super bowls. I knew this would happen and it did.
ChrisD
January 21, 2024 at 01:54 pm
You don’t know shit. You just make shit up and blather like a grumpy old man. Worst kicker in college? He is the 2nd all-time point leader for Auburn! One season he had over a 90% completion rate. I’m not defending Carlson. He wasn’t good enough this year. But no one should ever believe anything you type. It’s just made-up BS
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 10:43 am
"This game had AMPLE opportunities to go up significantly on the scoreboard, one kick that got blown off course is not what determined this game."
I think that if you asked 6-8 people who actually watched the game you'd get several different answers as to what the biggest missed opportunity was--the unconverted 4th down in the red zone, early drives ending in 3s and not 7s, the two missed INTs (Savage, Nixon), drives ending in Packer INTs--if there are that many things we can point to, that kick (41 yards isn't a chip shot in the rain) that would've only led to a tie is just part of a bigger picture of missed opportunities. Against a well-coached, physical team, you can't miss that many chances and win.
PeteK
January 21, 2024 at 12:16 pm
All true, those dropped INTs, you couldn't have easier catches.
nagawicka
January 22, 2024 at 12:44 pm
Exactly. Any one of a dozen moments go different and the field goal’s irrelevant. Three or 4 missed or broken tackles failed to end 49ers scoring drives. Very Likely heavy rain finally (or again) impacted play, a slip on a hard throw floating Jordan Love’s final pass for an INT, and possibly on Anders kick as well – a reality to keep in mind, not an excuse.
Vachio
January 21, 2024 at 11:25 am
Watson's hamstring issues are most likely nutrition-related. Modern sports nutrition tends to focus too much on hydration to the point athletes end up over-hydrated and more susceptible to muscle strain type injuries. There's a reason guys like Max McGee and Lawrence Taylor could stay out drinking all night before a game and play without pulling a hammy. Basic physiology and chemistry.
Good call on the comparison between Carlson and Crosby. Crosby was nearly automatic on XPs, missing only one those 1st 4 years, but that was also before the rules changed. Carlson is actually better on XPs than he is on regular FGs, with an 87.2% rate. He's still below the league average of 94.2%, though.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:07 pm
I find myself wondering if it's a young guy trying to add mass and strength, but doing it at the expense of flexibility.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 03:54 pm
The problem with hamstrings is that if the tissue has not healed well previously then it may be vulnerable in future.
I’m not going to speculate on the causes of Watson’s issues, but I do hope that the Packers have organized for some expert assessment and remediation.
Given the number of hamstring issues that the Packers have suffered this year, I hope that there is a through dive into the player nutrition and conditioning program. Yes it could just be luck, but statistically it appears enough of an outlier to not take that as a certainty.
fthisJack
January 22, 2024 at 08:38 am
Speaking from my experience, I had a problem with pulling hamstrings playing softball. I said , "EFF this" so i started running every day . Not long but stretching things out and I never experienced pulled hamstrings again.
Mister Chievous
January 21, 2024 at 03:32 pm
i don't know if the wind blew the kick or the kicker blew it. i do know the kick was headed for the left upright right from the jump. wind didn't seem to bother the niners kicker
Swisch
January 21, 2024 at 07:58 am
It didn't feel like a collapse to me; it hurts a lot, but it simply seems the 49ers were a little bit better (and that overall, the 49ers are a lot better).
The interception at the end by Love was the most painful because it was so inexplicable and anticlimactic.
Rrrrr.
Really frustrating to have that drive end so abruptly, but I'm still excited about our young QB and so many of his teammates.
***
That's sports.
Only one of the 14 teams that make the playoffs wins its last game, so the other 13 are certain to end the season with some major disappointment, either with a tough loss that is close or a tough loss that isn't all that close.
Lots of good things to look at in this game as the pain subsides.
Lots to look forward to next season as we process the hurt and get over the sadness of yesterday.
Vachio
January 21, 2024 at 11:31 am
I agree with LaFleur, the bigger problem was the red zone failures in the first half. You can't have 3 red zone trips, come away with only 6 points, and expect to beat a team as good as the 49ers. Props to this young team for even getting a team like that on the ropes. The best thing, in my mind, is that everyone in that locker room knows they can play with anyone. That's going to be big next season.
Rory P Scrotem
January 21, 2024 at 08:01 am
Early in the season, the Indianapolis Colts were in tough contact talks with Jonathan Taylor. It was rumored that the Colts might be enticed to trade him to the Packers for Christian Watson...possibly with the Colts eating some of Jonathan's large salary. Hindsight is always 20/20 but...imagine the Dallas & 49-ers games with Jones and Taylor as alternating running backs.
Gutey is in a tough position. It has been said by many, "Don't fall in love with your players!"
Add a young, vibrant running back and subtract an often-injured talented, young, fast receiver. Couldn't help but think of this when I watched the game yesterday. Would hate to see Watson go...but think of it...Jonathan Taylor and Aaron Jones...WOW!!
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 08:44 am
Still wonder why is a tall fast receiver being sent out on five yard routes? Why isnt he stretching the field thats what we got him for the next Jordy.
I still think the Pack get him in front of a specialist and lets find out just what the hell is wrong with his leg and if it cant be fixed give him a last payday. To me he is a waste of time bench sitter. Alexander is the same. He does nothing on the field.
Johnblood27
January 21, 2024 at 12:07 pm
bedwetter
davekenya
January 21, 2024 at 01:16 pm
5 yard routes play to Watson's strengths. He's not 'quick twitch in tight spaces' with wiggle (Reed is closest). Only can think they were apprehensive him running longer 'stretch the D' routes w/o aggravating his hammie.
With Watson being a field stretcher...and Melton being a 4.3 40 guy, I'd like to see experimenting with them both on field at same time running routes downfield -- one deeper, one a middle crosser...to see if this would present interesting D mismatches in coverage.
croatpackfan
January 21, 2024 at 01:21 pm
Remember Davante Adams and your spitting on him?
You found new victim?
ChrisD
January 21, 2024 at 01:59 pm
More made-up blather from grumpy old man
Vachio
January 21, 2024 at 11:34 am
That's just silly. Giving up on him this soon would be idiotic. Athletes with his traits are hard to come by.
NickPerry
January 21, 2024 at 08:10 am
Game Balls...
Gutey... I said from the start of the season I wanted to see if Jordan Love was our next QB. I think that was answered with a resounding YES. I know that last throw made us ALL think of Brett Favre. But in a wet and windy game against arguably one of the best Defenses in the NFL in a game NOBODY thought they'd be OR expected of them, they went blow for blow with them for 59 minutes...Gutey got this RIGHT!
WRs & TEs... Again, at the start of the season everybody thought the Packers needed to go out and sign a veteran WR. Someone to help guide and be a leader in the WR room. I think we can SAFELY say the WR position is solid moving forward. The same can be said about the TEs. This team is LOADED at the skill positions. I'll also say hopefully Watson can get his body right. Maybe he'll be one of those fragile, hurt all the time WRs. IMO he has NEXT season to figure it out.
Lame Calls...
Kicking Game... The Packers HAVE to bring in another kicker to challenge Carlson. From week 15 or 16 when the playoffs were a possibility I felt like this COULD be 2021 all over again. Carlson proved me right against the same team. I saw many blame the LS on that kick and why he missed it. The snap wasn't perfect BUT this is the NFL. The hold was down, laces forward, and THAT'S a kick an NLF kicker just HAS to make. It wasn't the snap...It was Carlson and it's 2021 all over again.
Secondary...The Packers absolutely positively have to address the safety position. Personally I'd add at least 2 before the end of the 4th round. I think they also need to address the CB position. I don't know if Stokes will work out, but they need another CB. Had Savage held onto that interception and Nixon held on to his, the Packers are playing in the NFCCG next weekend.
Thanks to The Green Bay Packers for a fantastic enjoyable season. As a Packers fan, I don't think you could have asked for more!
On to the Draft!
mnbadger
January 21, 2024 at 09:52 am
amen.
Go Lions.
On to FA and the draft.
GPG!
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 10:47 am
Nope. Hoping the LOLions show up today. It'll be to hard to live in Lions territory if they keep advancing...
That said, we can expect that their assistants will largely turn over after this season and they'll be a very different looking team in 2024.
LeotisHarris
January 21, 2024 at 03:01 pm
You'll be okay, dobber. Just casually steer the conversation away from football at your monthly Patriot Militia gatherings.
Mister Chievous
January 21, 2024 at 03:36 pm
i wouldn't bring in another kicker to challenge carlson. i would just cut him tomorrow. he earned it just like that idiot tight end who decided to try to field the onside kick againd seattle that kept us out of the super bowl. kickers are a dime a dozen.
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 08:41 am
First congrats to the Packs to getting to where they did. Too bad we lost this game, one that I thought we had and could and should have won only because as I hoped, Purdy would have an awful day. We all knew he was hit and miss and he missed but he still beat out Barry defense.
Second, I only hope the Love we saw of late wasnt a mirage and he was playing over his head and next season we get the real love who puts us in a 5-6 situation again. No more messing with this guy either he is good or he aint, we will know next year. Good luck pack fans. Lets have a parade is lazy as Gutt fires Barry.
PackEyedOptimist
January 21, 2024 at 08:43 am
Agree with all of that Nick.
I really think the Packers used up all of their energy reserves by the fourth quarter.
It’s hard to play at that level against a superior opponent
Swisch
January 21, 2024 at 09:55 am
It seems like a good point, PackEyedOptimist, to think that the Packers were probably exhausted in the fourth quarter after a short week, especially compared to a 49ers team that had last week off and didn't have to travel halfway across the country.
It seemed like the Packers fought hard all the way through until the end, and there may be a tendency to be too hard on them in expecting too much against a superior team in adverse conditions.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 10:51 am
As much as the commentators kept blaming bad cleats and what not, it was hard to think that SF was going to lay down last night--they were going to make a run.
Was it just me or did the offense seem to lose its giddy-up after Tom went down and Nijman came in at RT? Coincidence?
NickPerry
January 21, 2024 at 11:07 am
I thought the same thing dobber. Bosa became the game wrecker he is, especially in the run game.
jannesbjornson
January 21, 2024 at 12:02 pm
It was apparent. LT is the # one pick. Hit on Morgan if they are able to secure him. Walker could be the swing guy. LaFleur didn't help Love with WRs and backs running the crosses opposite Love's right face. Keep it simple on 3rd and short, use the TEs.
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 04:28 pm
If thats the # 1 pick . Then you just made the case to keep Bahk.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 05:30 pm
Do you really think Bakh will hold up? I really don’t want to bet that much on this team at this point. It’s time to look for the answers for the next 5 years and that cap will help us elsewhere. We do need a strong T pick to challenge Walker and cover for injuries.
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 08:29 pm
I don't think Bahk can hold up.
Cover injuries ? - Yes
Challenge - No.
The problem has been RT.
No one has been able to play it, but Tom.
I 'd grab a versatile OL first. - Troy Fautanu?
But Safety is a bigger priority- IMO
jannesbjornson
January 22, 2024 at 08:58 am
DeJean and Kinchens may not make it to #25. In this offense, the LT has to have good feet and reach, like Morgan .I'm not sold on Walker. Fautanu is a guard and the other OTs, beside Guyton fit the RT profile. Fuaga is another OG/RT guy. If the safeties are gone, Quinyon Mitchell is a CB who packs a punch. No more SEC finesse guys...
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 04:03 pm
I think it coincided with less Jones, less under center and some shifts in play calling, such as the disappearance of Melton and even Reed. We also saw more focus on attacking the middle and pushing the pocket and the 49ers began to feel some momentum and play harder. A bunch of things happening at about that time.
PackEyedOptimist
January 21, 2024 at 08:47 am
I see a need to add two safeties and two RBs and an ILB and DT and C/Gplus some more backups: QB, ED, CB, K. And probably a FA safety.
I hope we can keep Smith, Jones and at least one of the free agent offensive linemen.
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 09:14 am
The cap is priority one.
Free Safety should be the first pick. - DeJean!
OL. - Rebuild the depth - BPA in rd. 2
ILB- This position is injury prone.
RBs = Comp picks.
A big back-up NT for short QB sneaks. late 3.
Don't trade the 2nd rd picks.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 11:06 am
"A big back-up NT for short QB sneaks. late 3."
Those substitutions don't happen. Teams hustle to the line for the tush push to make it so.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 05:35 pm
If we have Barry, big NTs just decorate the PS even against running teams. I’d love the option active for more reasons than this, but it’s not going to happen with Barry and if we get a new coordinator all assumptions need reassessing.
I wish we had played Brooks more. I thought we would and he was effective when he was in.
NickPerry
January 21, 2024 at 11:12 am
Part of me wants the Packers to draft a new RT and move Tom to Center.
BUT, then the other part of me thinks it's crazy to even consider moving Tom.
I think they need two RB's too. Maybe Brooks out of Texas earlier (3rd round) and then Davis from Kentucky in the 4th or 5th.
Can't wait for the combine.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 11:19 am
I think Tom will be a T from here on except in case of injury/emergency. I wouldn't be surprised if the Packers look again at flipping Walker and Tom this off-season...whether it actually manifests in game snaps in 2024 or not. A lot will have to do with how they draft, of course.
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 01:33 pm
Nick Perry you are correct
No OT will start unless it is a RT.
Tom goes to RG and moves to center in a pinch.
RB- WI has the Dillion clone, (Allen)
The mistake is taking one to early.
I say anything in 3.
jannesbjornson
January 22, 2024 at 09:11 am
Allen is a fumbler. This coming from a Badger.
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 05:41 pm
I have been a big advocate for Tom as a possible upgrade on Myers. However, that was this season and more a reflection on Myers. Tom is our best T. I think there’s an argument he should be our LT long term, but we should have plenty of opportunity to upgrade at C before next season without moving Tom. That’s the better way to go now.
marpag1
January 21, 2024 at 01:11 pm
According to "Tankathon," the Packers have the fifth highest amount of draft capital in the 2024 NFL draft. That's fantastic considering that you would normally need to have a pick in the top 10 to rate that high. Only the Cardinals, Commanders, Bears and Giants have more draft firepower than the Packers, and those four teams own five of the top 10 picks. Of course, the Rogers and Douglas trades help us a lot here. The Packers have five picks in the top 100, eleven picks in all - 25, 41, 58, 88, 92, 126, 166, 203, 215, 242, 250.
Corner or O-Line in round 1? That 41st pick looks like a good place for a safety perhaps...??
Personally, I don't see the Packers adding much to the D-Line, at least not in early rounds. Too many needs in other areas. For the most part, I think they like their young guys, and will probably roll with what they've got, hoping for improvement in their second or third years.
J-Rome
January 21, 2024 at 08:50 am
I’m not mad, I’m just disappointed. Let’s face it, the 49ers probably have superior talent. With the game on the line, they did what they get paid to do. Everyone thought the Packers had to play a perfect game to win. They didn’t, and not just in the 4th quarter. Another good draft and some development and we are going to win games like this. I’m looking forward to next year!
NFLfan
January 21, 2024 at 08:51 am
The Packers are in a rebuild, made the Play-offs, embarrassed the Cowboys and played ahead of the 1st seed Niners all night.
I say Bravo.
We knew Savage was a problem last year-this is not new. Watson is oft-injured-we've known that as well. We've Rashan Gary's issues all season.
Fans cannot let Joe Barry remain.
LeotisHarris
January 21, 2024 at 03:04 pm
"Fans cannot let Joe Barry remain."
Is there anyway you can assist us in overcoming our learned helplessness?
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:13 pm
<<whistles...holds up 3 fingers>>
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 08:52 am
Yes Ken you hit the nail right on the head.
The forth quarter collapse.
When Tom went out. It showed.
While most point to Barry.
Better Safety play was always needed.
And another big Grave digger can't hurt.
Especially for those short situations.
No need to point at escape goats.
The rebuild wasn't over.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 11:09 am
"Better Safety play was always needed.
And another big Grave digger can't hurt."
I think we agree here more than we usually do. The baseball adage, "if you're weak up the middle defensively, you're weak everywhere" is just as true here.
Starting to wonder if Quay Walker is to ILB what HHCD was to S: at first--when you've been wandering in the desert--he looks like a real find, but before long you realize that there's really something missing. Or maybe, more importantly, you're not using him where he belongs (WLB in a 4-man front).
jannesbjornson
January 21, 2024 at 12:06 pm
T'vondre Sweat with a move up in rd two.....
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 12:31 pm
No- Sweat is not the only big NT.
Bad move JB. Stay put - Take the bargain.
We need back-ups. .
No Rookie will start on this club.
Rebecca
January 21, 2024 at 03:09 pm
Bo boo babazzz we have know escaped goats!
LeotisHarris
January 21, 2024 at 03:25 pm
A lot of people, many, many, people, are saying the wanker who let the goats escape should be fired. Everyone's looking for escaped goats!
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:16 pm
I could see a good rookie playing at RG or OT, SS, FS, or ILB.
jannesbjornson
January 22, 2024 at 09:07 am
You want the best NT from the group and a guy who destroys dbl teams, or you get what you see with Barry-ball and letting McCaffrey decimate the front seven in crunch time. He knocked Washington's interior on their cans.
McKinley Jackson also can get low. A lot of the DTs in this draft are 3 techs.
stockholder
January 22, 2024 at 10:23 am
NT don't go high.Usually 3rd rd.
He is the Outland trophy Winner.
But he is not projected to play all downs.
And his partner was JaTavion Sanders .
Who more than likely will go before Sweat.
And isn't over weight.
The problem is Gute took the DL last year.
His success with those later DL picks won't change.
jannesbjornson
January 22, 2024 at 12:09 pm
They also need a speed driven pass rusher. You have to get to the QB faster, these days. The QBs run a faster offense in college. The WRs and TEs know the route tree as long as you select Players in the higher rounds, not Projects. I would move up for DeJean and solve the safety problem. See how the bidding goes for Antoine Winfield, Jr.
stockholder
January 22, 2024 at 02:29 pm
I also would go after DeJean.
ReaganRulz
January 21, 2024 at 09:07 am
Great game to watch just wish the W was in our column. Mistakes on both sides. Purdy was off. San Fran missed field goal. We also missed two easy Int’s and Love should have scrambled on that last play. Could have picked up 10+ yards and run out of bounds. Learning lesson for sure!!
Regardless…So proud of our team and we are now America’s Team!! :)
Johnblood27
January 21, 2024 at 12:14 pm
ummm...
We ALWAYS have been, and still are, America's Team.
Mister Chievous
January 21, 2024 at 03:41 pm
yep. love had clear sailing. his reluctance to run is his biggest failing right now. we all remember how badly rodgers hurt teams with his running in his prime. love can do that
navydisposaleer
January 21, 2024 at 09:09 am
Look, the Packers suffered coaching mental breakdowns. The 49er game was lost in the first quarter and then the rest of the way. Pack has a great QB? Let's pass this tidbit on to La Fleur since he called virtually run plays in the first possession. By the time they got to the end zone, Love was totally covered in rust and rusty he was. From then on, Love was in left field. In the Dallas game, La Fleur had Love tossing pass after pass. Somewhere between Dallas and SF, La Fleur's mind stopped ticking.
Next comes a totally brain dead defensive coach. Where is it written that a great defense uses generosity to win? Barry simply gave a huge gift to the 49er's when he allowed their QB to throw pass after pass without a offering a single "thank you" in return? Do the words, "red dog", "blitz", "sack" mean anything to this bozo?
Sick of ruining all of the Packer's dreams with stupid coaching. Oh, not all of the Packers, there's an exception with the jersey number 26; can't catch, can't tackle, can't do much.
LeotisHarris
January 21, 2024 at 03:09 pm
"The 49er game was lost in the first quarter and then the rest of the way."
Someone's stolen the lede for Cory's Corner.
golfpacker1
January 21, 2024 at 09:18 am
NickPerry, you hit it on the head with the interception chances. In this big of a game you cant miss:
Opportunities to take the ball away, ala Savage's missed pic that takes points off the board and momentum from the 49ers. Right in his hands and add the missed tackles. Stick a fork in him. Nixon's miss was even worse as that would have been a pic six. I was thinking at the time here comes the same momentum swing we got @ Dallas with that pic six. Ironically Savage caught that one. There was one more that Campbell could have had to end a drive by the sideline. Purdy does not have a strong arm. He anticipates well, but his ball floats and we had opportunities to open up a big lead as well has changing momentum but we missed our chances.
In big games not much separates good teams. Injuries, Deebo and Zach Toms during the game. One player, Greenlaw was questionable all week. He was player of the game. And missing Enigbare hurt our depth and rotation to keep the other Edge players fresh. Turnovers, drops, field position. I know we got more out of this team than we could have hoped for, but GB was hot at the right time of the season and this game was ours to win.
I wasn't a Carlson fan from the time we drafted him. He is better than he was in college, but kickers that miss that many kicks don't stay in the NFL for long. His kickoffs were better, but he still had several short ones returned that hurt us with field position. Yes, the weather was shitty, but he has been kicking short all year. The missed field goal was a chance for overtime. He has to have summer competition. I am fine with using a draft pick late if a good kicker is available, but Carlson is not a long-term answer. Harty from Stanford and Mevis from Missouri should be UFDA 2 top priorities.
Barry still needs to be gone. Management simply needs to ask these questions. Is this coach, or any coach, holding us back from being the best we can be? And can we get a better coach to replace him? Barry is holding the defense back and the players are not better because of him. Management owes it to the players and the fans to have the best product on the field at all times. This team is really close and player wise is 2 or 3 good safeties and interior offensive lineman from being a dangerous contender next year. Add in younger, better, cheaper players to replace Campbell, P Smith, and Bahk would open up the financial opportunities for some good FAs to fill the few holes we will have.
I would haved loved our chances with Detroit or Tampa Bay. A North rival or a revenge game against a team that beat us this year. On to 2024. GO PACK GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 11:15 am
"I wasn't a Carlson fan from the time we drafted him. "
Don't waste a pick on a kicker.
Kickers are mostly disposable and cheap in today's NFL, and many teams--even good ones--juggle the position through the season and carry an extra on the PS.
"Barry still needs to be gone. "
2023 was really no different from 2022 or 2021. The defense plays well for stretches--to the point of getting your hopes up--but then dives into multi-game stretches where it can't get the right personnel on the field (they had to take a TO last night to avoid playing with 10 men) or get them lined up properly or figure out what their assignments are. The aggregate stats end up all over the place, but overall very middling.
That hasn't changed, and if LaF has to sit in the defensive game plans to push the coaches to do better, then it really doesn't matter who the DC is, does it? Find a guy who has the schematic pedigree you want, but has a creative mind, is motivated and high energy.
Johnblood27
January 21, 2024 at 12:18 pm
say Dobbs, why don't you lead the search committee?
You definitely have the criteria all laid out. Simply execute the plan and we will all be better for it.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:18 pm
Not another search committee...what meeting did I miss? ;)
Packers0808
January 21, 2024 at 09:25 am
Good Future of team. Bad left 27 points on the field, when total all up not gotten. Was a fun team to watch and came up just short! When Carlson missed like I said to all here, that will be the game difference. Damn hate that I was right there!
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 05:48 pm
For me it was the long McCaffrey run for a TD.
Matt
January 21, 2024 at 09:28 am
My points form this game and season are:
1. We played good yesterday, but 49ers are just too stacked everywhere. They and Ravens are in the league of their own. Other teams are just good for today. Still we had a chance till the end. Not many teams in the league would. I also think McCaffrey is the difference maker. Deebo is good, but CMC is a generational talent. Take him out and SF is in 70% of its powers.
2. I came from: "I don't care about the results" to "Beat the Niners and we're in the Super Bowl" mode. The last stretch of the season was fun... but somehow it left a bitter taste again. Everything could point for the Packers' development and bright future, but the reality goes unpredictable ways. I believe and would love to see us being even better upcoming years, but there is no guarantee. When we were just "that" close I started to have some hopes, maybe it is our chance now, the most unpredictable but real. Nobody knows when we will be in such position again.
3. Joe Barry - our D always play better during the last phase of the season. This time I am not buying it. They were good yesterday in overall, but in the same time as deflated baloon. The longer they played, the less effective they were. Offense didn't produce in 4th qr too, but in whole season's perspective they made a long way to this point. Defense is on their common sinusoid - bouncing from the bottom of the league to average and single very good outings. I still think they play below their potential. Or maybe it's not Barry but safety position as a weakest link ruins the whole effort...?
4. Don't be very mad at Carslon. I am a big fan of Crosby, I still miss this true Packer, great player and leader. But look that Carslon's stats are similar to Mason's in 1st year. The second thing is even if he scored that missed kick, SF would score the TD they did and successfully go for 2. That is what I think.
5. I also think that it was not easy for our team to play on a short week spent in big part at the airports. Additional 2 days could do wonders. I know that the league is for grown men and works like this, but physiology is as it is.
6. I hope we really get into this upward developmental path everybody says. Please don't throw Love's name under the train if he will suffer 2nd year starter problems. We know what is he capable of. Now he deserves the trust to blossom long term even if there are problems on route.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 11:03 am
"2. I came from: "I don't care about the results" to "Beat the Niners and we're in the Super Bowl" mode...Nobody knows when we will be in such position again."
I think this is a great perspective, Matt. Many of us kept talking about the Packers playing with "house money" and growth for a young team, but I think we all wanted this to go into February. It sucks to lose this game, but we feel a silver lining...it sucks in a different way when you're a #1 seed at 13-3 and you crap away a game at home.
Your last statement is an important one. There's always that nagging fear that it was just "lightning in a bottle" and that we'll see serious regression in 2024. Hopefully this team utilizes its limited cap shrewdly, drafts well, and makes smart changes in staff--keep the arrow pointing up!
"The second thing is even if he scored that missed kick, SF would score the TD they did and successfully go for 2. That is what I think."
People talk as if the Carlson kick would've been a game-winner. In the face of the ensuing SF TD, it's a tie game. The way the D played on that final drive--even though a FG likely pushes SF back on the ensuing kickoff--it's hard to feel that it would've done much more than just delay that TD...whether they would've gone for 2 or kicked the PAT and gone to OT, they clearly had the momentum.
PeteK
January 21, 2024 at 12:42 pm
All that has merit, but when a very young team made up of later round picks gets a taste of success it usually blossoms.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:21 pm
After these two playoff games, they've got to feel like they can play with anyone.
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 04:33 pm
But were not stacked yet.
Handsback
January 21, 2024 at 09:36 am
The loss of Tom hurt and the Packers have to make sure they have another OT and guard starter next year.
Big problem is coverage…if Purdy was a bit more accurate, Green Bay would have lost by two TDs. Stokes, Alexander need to be available or get someone that can be that guy.
Safety, either get a man in FA or high draft pick actually might need both or multiple picks. Big weakness for the Pack.
Another run stopper either active ILB or DT. Lost contain and missed tackles all game long.
Great season, thank you MLF and Gutsey.
JMHO
HarryHodag
January 21, 2024 at 09:41 am
I'm pretty amazed at some of the responses here. Perspective is a good thing.
1)Did anyone think going into the season this Packers team would be one minute away from the conference championship game?
2) Did anyone think the Packers offensive line would dominate a team said to be the best defensive line in the NFC?
3) Did anyone think this supposed awful defense would hold one of the most potent offensive machines in check for nearly 60 minutes?
4) This is the youngest team in the league. To me, this was one of the most memorable coaching jobs I've seen, holding the team together until things started to happen in a positive way.
5) Brett Favre threw interceptions like confetti. Jordan Love has a couple and somehow some think he's a bum. Love will be the Packers QB for many years and he will only get better.
Sorry, it's a loss but they weren't expected to be there anyway. Five picks in the first 100 in the draft? Look out NFL.
Swisch
January 21, 2024 at 10:06 am
Good stuff, Harry.
In our frustrations with the fourth quarter (when the Packers may have reached a point of exhaustion), let's not forget about all of the good things from the third quarter (and other parts of the game, including the fourth quarter).
It hurts a lot, but let's be careful not to overreact.
As we heal, it seems we will be able to find a lot more good than bad in the game of last night. We can be proud of our guys for their effort and effectiveness.
Part of that perspective will likely be to see that most of what occurred was due not to the Packers failing, but to the 49ers being the better team . . . at least for this season.
Mister Chievous
January 21, 2024 at 06:06 pm
calm down. i haven't seen a comment anywhere where someone calls love a bum.
HarryHodag
January 22, 2024 at 06:18 am
I am calm. Where did you see a comment from me about Jordan Love?
EricTorkelson
January 21, 2024 at 06:32 pm
HH... I am with you
Not sure our oline dominated but they did play very well
Defense did play well but the D Samuel injury really helped
Yes great coaching job for sure getting the defense to jell after looking lost for the first half of the year was impressive
Throwing up the homerun ball with 48 seconds and 2 timeouts remaining was JLoves , Aaron Rodgers
imitation lets hope he learned from it.
They have 5 good picks in next year draft, but championships are all about great fortune and great timing ... they were there, and were within reach lets just hope that window remains open......
Packerpasty
January 21, 2024 at 09:47 am
Wow..a whole lot of "its Barry's fault" etc...same old stuff...some of it is his fault but he doesnt have a really great bunch of D guys out there...improvements must be made...Savage could have done his part to win this game, he didnt...is that Barry's fault?...I dont see much about Love..he totally sucked in the fourth quarter...he let the moment get to him...if that would have been Rodgers tossing poor passes and interceptions, holy wah, never would have heard the end of it...Love and this team will be fine but lets not give him a free pass here.....next year isn't a given..lose guys, new guys, injuries, shit happens...this was a really good chance to advance to the Bowl and they choked the fourth...and then theres the kicker...he wasn't even that good in college...
13TimeChamps
January 21, 2024 at 11:50 am
Dak Prescott threw 2 INTs last week. Purdy threw 4 INTs in a game late in the year. These are two players who have been in the MVP discussion this year. It's the NFL...it happens to the best QBs. Always has, always will. How many times has Rodgers choked in playoff games? Favre?
Yes, Love threw a couple of picks that contributed to this loss. But he has done WAY more good this year than bad. I don't see anybody giving him a "free pass".
dark41
January 21, 2024 at 11:59 am
I'm in agreement for the most part. I'm not a fan of Barry and hope this was his last year in GB. Having said that, Barry had Savage and Nixon in position to make game changing plays. He can't catch the ball for them.
Had Carlson made his FG, DBs caught INTs, and MLF taken a FG on 4th down early in the game, Barry's last D collapse wouldn't have mattered. Easy to understand how they ran out of gas on a short week and playing very well, for the most part, in 2 playoff games.
Both of Love's INTs were terrible throws, also terrible decision on the last one. I give the kid heaps of credit for how much he improved this season, never seemed to be rattled, his poise and leadership. But he collapsed in the 4th quarter. Hopefully a learning experience that he'll improve upon. Go Pack go! :)
CoachJV
January 21, 2024 at 09:56 am
J-Love's bad throw: Well, it's not like we haven't seen #4 and #12 throw bonehead passes in clutch moments. Comes with the territory if you're gonna be a great Packers QB. No risk, no reward.
Anderson: Just go for 2 every time and go for it on 4th down... we'll have a better chance.
Defense: New DC. Period. We all know that the reason the D got better in the last part of the season is because LAF was involved in the D game plan (and probably calling the plays too).
Johnkrash
January 21, 2024 at 10:27 am
Was there any question that the Packer defense was going to be content to sit back and allow the 49ers to complete ball after ball in front of them on that final drive? To get a stop in that situation required some aggressiveness and perhaps even some gambling. If you get burned over the top at least you would leave your offense more than one minute to try and tie or perhaps win the game. What you got yesterday was what the Joe Barry defense is, sit back and hope the other QB screws up. The problem with that philosophy is that when you get deep into the playoffs the QB’s are good and if you want mistakes you have to force them. If you want to win in the playoffs you need better than what the Joe Barry philosophy provides. It’s not personal Joe it is only business.
dark41
January 21, 2024 at 12:13 pm
To be fair, a big part of why GB had a lead in this game was because Purdy struggled with inconsistency for 3 1/2 quarters. Glove or no glove, he was off more than on, by a little or by a lot. Our D was obviously gassed on that last drive, and Purdy executed perfectly, which he hadn't done all game. I'm not a fan of 2 deep Safeties with CBs playing 8 yards off the LOS in a 1 score game but, it wasn't crazy to expect Purdy to make a mistake on that last drive. Instead, it was Love who made the game sealing mistake on his final drive. Go Pack go!
croatpackfan
January 21, 2024 at 01:52 pm
If Purdy felt pressure, as for 3 1/2 Q, he would make shake throws and mistakes. But Packers played preventive D. That allows him to sattle down and have a time for good decisions. It is that simple!
Booner
January 21, 2024 at 10:36 am
Get rid of Dingle Joe NOW! Trade Carlson and Savage for a stick of gum! They are pathetic!
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 11:53 am
Really? Who the F would want Savage, Nixon, Stokes, Carlson, Watson or Tourre.
They are deadwood but they are cheap. The packers play cheap ball so these guys are going nowhere and neither is Barry.
joejetson
January 21, 2024 at 07:02 pm
Don't agree with the 'Packers play cheap ball' comment. The Salary Cap problem they are trying to fix is because they spent TOO MUCH on player contracts. That's the opposite of 'cheap ball'. I hope they learned their lesson with the ridiculous over-spending.
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 10:49 am
First congrats to the packs for getting to the playoffs. I just hope the nostalgia doesnt fog the minds of the coaches and managers that this is thee team and wait til next year mindset.
There is dead wood on this team that will continue to drag it down unless someone has the balls to get rid of them and try and improve key areas of the defense.
The good news the offense aint broke so you only have to fix the d. Spend some dam money and lets get some play makers in the secondary. Stokes has to go. Savage and Nixon are too slow to cover. Who the F is Rudy Ford? Alexander is always an injury waiting to happen because he aint tough and avoids contact because of it.
Plus, its not like our competition isnt going to improve via the draft and free agency so going forward, next year is goig to be a bitch unless the d improves.
CanPackFan
January 21, 2024 at 10:56 am
I kept my expectations low for this game, as well as for the season in fact. This young team was just simply overmatched. But it showed the potential we have coming into next season.
(1) The middle of the Oline is still a weakness. They can't move people for 1 yard gains. We need a big, mean,
strong center!
(2) The defense was subpar in the 4th qtr. Barry cannot seem to call effective schemes in close games. LaFleur was fooled by Barry's better performance in the latter part of the last 2 seasons. He won't grow. He won't change. We need a new DC without question.
(3) Yep, we need a stud safety, or two.
But the glass is surely better than half full! Add some of the above changes and I think we can be a solid, contender again in the near future! GPG
canadapacker
January 21, 2024 at 11:04 am
I too thought we were going to get blown out. For the want of a few plays we could have won. That is young team experience - Love missed a few short throws for 3rd down conversions ie the one to Jones. Had Carlson made that chip shot field goal maybe Love doesnt panic if going down for a game winner instead of a game tier. I am a glass half full guy after this game and the win over Dallas. Now to move on with a better cap situation. I am not going to be full of negatives or call the loss devastating - I am happy that we showed up - Now next year will be next year - and you have to play the games but I am ecstatic with the potential of this roster and we have a draft to add the needed piece and maybe a free agent or two.
ImaPayne
January 21, 2024 at 11:51 am
Gutt wont replace Barry because he comes cheap. It costs money to get good d coaches and the packs wont pay it. LeFluer knows who writes his pay checks and is not going to call out Gutts guy. Were stuck, good luck with another 8-9 season next year.
PS the bears are young, Lions young and Vikings are young too.
golfpacker1
January 21, 2024 at 12:28 pm
Money is not an issue for an NFL organization. Barry's contract is up, so that costs nothing extra. The real point of replacing Barry is so the TEAM can get better and reach its goals. Is Barry holding the defense back? Can we get a better DC that the players perform better for? Yes and Yes. Lots of coaching talent is available too.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:26 pm
He just spews stuff and knows little.
Gman1976
January 21, 2024 at 11:04 am
Game Ball: I just have one more to add. After watching a replay of the game, I was refreshingly surprised at how violent, clean, and hard our defense hit the 49ers. They really wanted to win. The 49ers may have won, but they paid a high price; and I don't think they will win the Superbowl. They may not even get past the next round if the next team hits them as hard. While some of the tackling was bad, the hitting was superb.
Packerfan24
January 21, 2024 at 11:26 am
Was sad to see the Packers lose this very winnable game. I agree that it was lost in the 1st half due to missed opportunities. One thing I never understand is the "Go for it" mentality on 3rd downs (especially in the 1st quarter of a playoff game??). Is always better to just get some points on the board (normally). Would have put the game in a tie, at least.
Still am very proud of this team. They overcame some real low points and played great football down the stretch. Was beautiful to see.
4thand1
January 21, 2024 at 11:35 am
The 9ers defense made the crucial plays, the Packers defense didn't.
jannesbjornson
January 21, 2024 at 12:18 pm
Add in the "4th and One....."
Coldworld
January 21, 2024 at 05:53 pm
Equally true. We weren’t good at converting key downs yesterday.
fthisJack
January 22, 2024 at 09:30 am
I firmly believe we got that first down but they had Marty Feldman spotting the ball.
RCPackerFan
January 21, 2024 at 11:41 am
Just have to say this was a great season. Didn't end how we wanted, but just the fact we got to where we were made this a great year.
Game Balls:
I like the choices made. These are a few others I feel need mentioning.
Bo Melton - He got past the DB and drew the DPI on the 3rd and 15 play. That play was huge and then he caught he TD not long after. He deserves some special mentioning.
Tom - Did anyone hear Bosa's name when Tom was in the game? When Tom went out we started to hear his name.
Lame Calls:
Officiating - It was so damn bad. They can't spot footballs, they can't see that guys are offsides. Somehow they said Purdy was out of the pocket when he threw the ball from within the pocket and threw it to a spot where there wasn't a player within 25 yards. They missed the facemask on Aaron Jones. They missed the block in the back on the first McCaffrey TD that sprung him. There were so many missed calls. Oh and GB had to use a challenge to get a ball marked in the right spot.
Three and Out:
- I felt like the Packers lost this game more then the 49ers won it. Doubs had the ball bounce off his hands on the first drive for a TD. I get he was getting hit, but the ball hits him in the hands and bounces off. If he can hold onto that it changes the game imo. The rest of the game felt much like that.
- Joe Barry lucked out from Purdy's poor play. They had WR's open a lot but Purdy missed them. The same thing last week. They had guys open but Dak missed them. The difference this week though was that GB's offense didn't score 40 points.
They need a new DC. Barry's defense blew 6 4th quarter leads this year. That doesn't include the Steelers game which they took the lead late in the 3rd quarter. It doesn't count the Panthers game which they allowed them to score 14 points to tie it up. That doesn't include the first Lions game which GB was down 27-3, GB brought it back to within 10 with a full quarter left, and the defense gave up a 9 minute TD drive killing any chance to a comeback.
- This was a very good season. Much better then we could have anticipated. We went into the season wanting to know if Love is the guy. He is. We went into the season with the youngest WR and TE positions. They grew up before our eyes. I can't wait to see how this team grows in the offseason.
On my list of things to take care of this offseason. They need to figure out what to do with Bakhtiari. They need to bring Jones back. They need a new DC. They need to add to the OL and DB positions the most. Probably another ILB, possibly OLB and RB as well. They need to bring in competition for K too. And they need to figure out how to keep Watson from hurting his hamstrings.
TOMMY'63
January 21, 2024 at 11:49 am
Mlf didn't take the easy fg because he doesn't trust the wanker! If he had trust he would not have gone for the first down. Important playoff game on the road , coaches always take the easy fg. Hope gutey sackes his ass and get a better kicker for next year, like moe Drayton 2 years ago against sf.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 12:29 pm
No...most coaches now follow the analytics and go for 4th and less than a yard deep in opponent's territory.
tobinrote
January 21, 2024 at 12:01 pm
what most concerned me was it looked like Love regressed to his October self in the 4th quarter, and he was not very sharp most of the game. not all of that was on the SF defense. then there is the Carlson problem. why after all those misses in the regular season was someone not brought in to compete with him? This game was there for the taking; two dropped INTs, and not making stops in the 4th q, the usual Barry D. and why a tush push with Love who by size and weight nevere going to get an extra foot, and not just handing the ball to Jones?
Packerpasty
January 21, 2024 at 01:23 pm
As long as he doesnt turn out to be Utah State Love, Good games then games where he does exactly what he did in the fourth quarter...he was an interception machine in college lets hope this is just a glitch, although a big one, in the fourth quarter...he felt the pressure...time to coach him up in the off season, especially some of those falling backward floaters...they work out sometimes but they hang in the air way too long...he's young should be coachable in his fifth year....
dark41
January 21, 2024 at 12:26 pm
What I want most for next year is to keep Aaron Jones, and draft a stud pass rusher - someone that forces opposing offenses to double or triple team him. Without that player, we're so close to sacks but constantly come up short. Trade up, if necessary, to get him. Then I'd go for safety and o-line (C, OG(s)). Also think the decision to let Barry walk needs to happen and soon.
Any way I slice it, this was an amazing season and route of the Cowboys. We went toe to toe with arguably the best team in the NFC. We started this season not knowing if we had a franchise QB or serviceable WRs. Love is the real deal and our WRs are much, much better than anyone expected. Go Pack go!
Packerpasty
January 21, 2024 at 12:26 pm
I wonder if Dillon would have gotten some of those short yards...he may not be there next season..
Johnblood27
January 21, 2024 at 12:32 pm
I have not seen it mentioned anywhere that the play clock ran to zero for a full beat before the snap on McCaffery's 30 yard TD run.
That play should have been called back.
The officials were very poor in this game and almost every one of their errors were in the 49ers favor. They certainly did NOT even out.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:24 pm
I mentioned it in the watch party last night, but you're dead right. Not even the commentators talked about it.
Curt
January 21, 2024 at 10:15 pm
Clearly noticed in our house -- not just by the packer fans.
You hope the calls even out, but I would have to agree bang bang calls were probably 80/20 in SF's favor in this game. Plus then, Int grounding missed, poor ball spots, bear hugs not called on OL, missed lined up offsides, block in back on TD run, etc.
golfpacker1
January 21, 2024 at 12:37 pm
MLF said as much Tommy63, He holds his breath everytime Carlson kicks. Dumping him now is not warranted. But kicker competition this summer sure is. Bring in some top college kickers, who were actually good in college, to compete. Hart-Stanford and Mevis-Missouri are both accurate and have strong legs. Mevis is SEC record holder with 63 yard FG. Harty was the top rated kicker coming to Stanford.
stockholder
January 21, 2024 at 12:40 pm
I'm surprised more people aren't complaining about the refs.
I have never seen so many bad spots in 1 game.
The refs still controlled the outcome.
Removing Tom from the game.
Opened the flood gates to Bosa and the Rush.
Love felt the pressure, and the whole OL felt it.
You didn't need to be a packer fan to see it.
Curt
January 21, 2024 at 10:10 pm
Sure would have liked to see the intentional grounded called on the play before the touchdown - would have been about ten yard loss....Purdy clearly still in the pocket and nobody within 25 yards of the throw which landed out of bounds right with all receivers to the left.
Would have moved out of FG range and likely changed the play call with 10 extra yards to go (of course with the Barry soft defense - corners did blitz on the TD play - maybe result would have still been the same)
Coldworld
January 22, 2024 at 10:15 am
Tom was removed by the independent medical team. They don’t answer to the officials or teams. From the sound of it, he did have s concussion, so I suppose they were justified.
stockholder
January 22, 2024 at 10:35 am
Officials stoped the game and was pulled .
He then was checked out.
UNCs or Not. It stunk.
He was walking off pretty good.
Packerpasty
January 21, 2024 at 01:24 pm
Anyone else think Campbells feet were stuck in cement...holy wah he is slow to the ball...he will probably be gone next year too....
WD
January 21, 2024 at 03:09 pm
On further review it was pointed out that the biggest lame call was by the officials on the 4th down Love QB sneak in the first half. Not only was the spot wrong, but the photos clearly showed the Niner defense was off-side. That botched call alone most likely cost us the game.
dobber
January 21, 2024 at 03:27 pm
Same thing happened against Dallas.
Booner
January 21, 2024 at 05:10 pm
We traded with the stinking Lions this past draft and they took the best safety in the draft class! We went into the season with Savage who is an absolute failure! Nice job Gute!! What an idiot!
LambeauPlain
January 22, 2024 at 10:56 am
Just to refresh the trade downs to assuage your grief regarding not taking Branch (S) at #45.
Gutey traded down from 45 to 48 and Detroit selected Branch (S). Packers received # 159 for the 3 spots that turned out to be Wicks.
Gutey next traded 48 with Tampa to 50. Those 2 spots were traded for #179 that turned out to be Brooks.
Gutey selected Reed at #50.
Was passing on Branch worth Reed, Wicks, and Brooks in return? That's a good deal. Feel better?
Leatherhead
January 21, 2024 at 06:46 pm
Savage clearly should have had an easy catch, but upon further review, I'm not convinced it's an automatic pick six. He also had the final miss on McCaffrey's long TD run. I suspect he'll receive FA offers that we'll choose not to match. If the Packers follow form, they'll spend their first round pick on a defensive player, probably a DB.
The Packers dress out 9 DBs for games, and right now we have the frequently injured Alexander and Stokes followed by not very much.
Guam
January 22, 2024 at 08:56 am
I might add Valentine and Nixon to the "keep list" LH. Both are adequate DBs and good reserves.
LambeauPlain
January 22, 2024 at 11:10 am
Valentine will be here next season and arrow points up.
The Packers need to get a new DC on board asap to review the 2023 performance the lengthy Packers' FA list that has 8 defensive players and assess how they fit his new scheme.
Another reason to get a new DC at 1265 Lombardi quickly is to get the jump on other teams. Delay is detrimental to 2024.
A new, proven, successful, creative DC has potential for the Packers to take the Division.
fthisJack
January 22, 2024 at 09:44 am
I wouldn't add Stokes in the same sentence as Jaire. He really had a sophmore slump and then he got hurt last year. This year he finally got healthy and got beat like a drum when he played and then got hurt again. I wouldn't count on him staying on this roster especially when the Pack will most likely add pieces to their secondary in the draft.
LambeauPlain
January 22, 2024 at 11:12 am
Stokes slump also coincided with Barry playing him in zone. He's a press corner and looked good doing it his rookie season.
badaxed
January 21, 2024 at 09:27 pm
Please, please, please fire Joe Barry. I am so sick of watching our defense give up the lead at the end of the game due to Barry’s soft defense. My guess is MLF will not do this. He may be an excellent play caller but he seems to be the only one in the room that cannot see Barry is incompetent. Every time it is third and long base defense, 4 rush defensive backs allow catch for first down then tackle. Over and over again. Sickening.
We stop the miners at end of game on defense and Jordon Love would not have to come out and try to be a miracle worker. This loss falls on Barry’s defense to me and our future relies on “someone” in packer management forcing Lefleur into fireing Barry.
USAPac
January 21, 2024 at 11:47 pm
... With all things in consideration, what I enjoyed most about this season is that the Packers played with passion.
It was refreshing to watch this group of young rookies virtually straight out of college who were playing for the sake of the game, without big heads, big egos and big paychecks on their mind.
Today's football players are too flamboyant with bizarre goldilocks hairdos and fluorescent colored uniforms do clown dances after less than spectacular plays,...
... by many self-centered, self absorbed egos, rather than playing as a team.
I'm old enough to have watched the Packers of the late sixties, seventies and on...
These Packers are stocked with many no name players who all showed up as a team on Saturday night and came very close to "taking the pants off" a much more experienced and veteran football team.
Enjoyable, inspiring and worth watching this season transpire.
They should have and could have won Saturday night...
... But walked off the field with heads up like men
Go Pack!
JohnnyLogan
January 22, 2024 at 02:42 am
Barry hasn't been fired yet? Bad sign. If MLF decides he wants to keep him then they both need to go.
LambeauPlain
January 22, 2024 at 11:22 am
Leadership requires making difficult personnel decisions. Some absolutely abhor doing it and the HC seems to be one of these leaders. I cannot point to many (if any) difficult personnel decisions Matt LaFluer has made as the HC.
It is not fun, but necessary to improve your organization. One personnel management strategy model that always made sense to me was:
1. Shine your Stars
2. Feed your Cash Cows
3. Counsel your Problem Children
4. Burn your Dead Wood
And when your Dead Wood is also your good buddy, it is even more difficult. But delay, denial and rationalization is not an action plan.
lecko
January 22, 2024 at 07:06 am
They say as a cornerback you have to have short memory...forget previous play nad concentrata about next.
I guess same is true for being a packers fan. Forget the latest (heatbreaking ? not really based on preseason expectation but very so based on play of team in recent weeks) , only so you can enjoy next season.
T7Steve
January 22, 2024 at 09:59 am
After the first 3 possessions added up to 6 points while the 9ers were still rusty and wearing the wrong cleats, I thought we were in trouble. The only reason to elect to receive is to jump out on top.
I reversed my opinion when they kept the 9ers from scoring before the half and made them go 3 and out to start the second half.
That made those decisions moot.
So looking back I now think it came down to O-line continuity and defensive fatigue. All the other mistakes could have been overcome including the missed kick and dropped interceptions.
LambeauPlain
January 22, 2024 at 11:25 am
And poor tackling. Does Barry ever practice the skill? Effective blocking and tackling is winning football. We did not do either very well in the 4th quarter. But the tackling was atrocious (again this year and the last 3 overall). I believe I read every D starter missed a tackle or more on Saturday. SMH.
If you do not practice a skill, it quickly erodes.
T7Steve
January 22, 2024 at 12:01 pm
I don't believe they're even allowed to practice live tackling anymore. Just dummy tackle drills.