Cory's Corner: Finding More Ways To Lose

The Packers picked the worst time to trip over themselves. 

I’m going to be honest. The Packers were never very good.

They proved that during an entire season in which they constantly tripped over themselves by finding ways to lose.

That story repeated itself on Sunday night as the Lions upset the Packers 20-16 at Lambeau Field to close the book on Green Bay’s potential four-year playoff streak. 

Despite how bad this season has gone, despite losing five games in a row and despite being ranked 26th in rushing yards per game allowed at 139.5, this team found itself one win from the postseason Promised Land.

And that’s why when the clock finally hit triple zeroes, it was a gut punch. The Packers were projected for 11 wins and barely found their way to eight wins and the first sub .500 season since going 6-9-1 in 2018. 

The Packers were easily the biggest disappointment in the NFL this year. There were ample playmakers on a beefed up defense, a hidden gem on special teams that wasn’t mined until the season was nearly over and an offense that only ran it 43 percent of the time this year. 

“Obviously losing Davante (Adams) was a big deal,” said Aaron Rodgers after going 17-for-27 for 205 yards with a touchdown and a pick. “But we didn’t fill that void. And nobody can — he’s super human. He’s phenomenal.”

The Packers didn’t lose that game because Adams wasn’t on the field. Rodgers was just off again. The Packers were given a pass interference penalty on the first drive, which turned out to be a 46-yard gift. But the Packers could not punch it in on first-and-goal at the 5. 

Nobody wants to hear this, but this felt a lot like the 2014 NFC Championship Game at Seattle. The Packers were content with kicking field goals and it only lulled themselves into a false sense of security.

The same things happened against the Lions. Rodgers missed throws he had to have. The Packers became too cute on offense instead of just playing to their strengths, which includes handing it off to Allen Lazard on fourth-and-one. 

And just when the Packers were about to double up the Lions, Mason Crosby’s 53-yard field goal doinked off the crossbar. A week ago, the crossbar helped his 56-yarder give the Packers three points. 

To make matters worse, discipline also showed up. The Lions were supposed to kick a 47-yard field goal but Rasul Douglas’ unnecessary roughness penalty gave the Lions a 33-yarder and made it a 9-6 Packers lead at halftime.

Then there was linebacker Quay Walker. He lost his cool, pushed a member of Detroit’s medical staff and was rightfully tossed. To make matters worse, that was the second time Walker has been ejected this year. That’s a coaching issue and it’s something that should not be tolerated. 

Matt LaFleur should not be fired though. But if he’s going to stick with defensive coordinator Joe Barry for next year, LaFleur’s seat just got warmer. LaFleur’s accountability has been terrible all season as he failed to rein in Rodgers when the first ballot Hall of Famer throws his patented “Rocket Balls,” just like another former Packers quarterback. He didn’t recognize how bad the defense was, yet didn’t prod Barry to change his soft zone until it was too late. And he didn’t recognize that Keisean Nixon was a much better option than Amari Rodgers. 

This team has a lot of problems, but first and foremost is the quarterback position. You cannot pay a player $42 million in guaranteed money this year but watch him finish out the year tied for 15th in passer rating with Dak Prescott and Lamar Jackson. There were only seven quarterbacks that played all 17 games this year, but Rodgers was the only one that didn’t throw for 300 yards in a single game. 

So what does that mean? Either the expectations for Rodgers need to be readjusted or his throwing thumb has been worse than we all thought.

I still think that Rodgers can go deep in the playoffs, but he has to understand that he cannot do it the same way that he did it four years ago. He needs to understand how good his personnel is and he needs to trust them. 

The question is, does the team still trust him? 
 

 

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__________________________

Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn

__________________________

4 points
 

Comments (126)

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

January 10, 2023 at 06:40 am

"LaFleur’s accountability has been terrible all season as he failed to rein in Rodgers when the first ballot Hall of Famer throws his patented “Rocket Balls,” just like another former Packers quarterback. He didn’t recognize how bad the defense was, yet didn’t prod Barry to change his soft zone until it was too late."

ALL SEASON???? Jesus Christ Cory, common buddy, MLFs accountability has been terrible since the day he was hired!! I mean just look at the first ST coach he hired. Shawn Mennenga was one of the WORST ranked ST Coordinators in College Football in 2018 while at that "Powerhouse" Vanderbilt. THAT was MLFs hire as his first ST Coordinator.

To make matters worse, he decides Mennenga wasn't the answer hiring Mennengas assistant would be a good move. Personally after those ST's the Packers had under Mennenga, any QUALIFED Head Coach would fire EVERYONE who had anything to do with coaching STs . But not MLF, nope he hires the assistant AND it cost the Packers a SB.

And those aren't the only examples. Keeping Pettine in 2020 and then hiring the guy who was the DC of the ONLY 0-16 team in NFL History!!! He wasn't much better in Washington yet MLF hires THAT guy in an "All In" season.

The man can't control his QB. He can't adjust in gametime moments, and he CONTINUES to not only make head scratching hires, but he also KEEPS those guys for multiple seasons. I will ALWAYS support and love the Green Bay Packers, but something HAS to change. It's not just MLF, it starts at the top with the leader of the "We're not idiots", team President Mark Murphy.

Sorry folks, the 70's and 80's are right around the corner unless something is done NOW! Oh, and for those of you who didn't watch the Packers teams of the 70's and 80's, and have only enjoyed the last 30 years of Packers football... IT SUCKED!

26 points
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croatpackfan's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:12 am

Nick, I agree with everything you wrote, except fact that ST lost the game vs 49ers. Neither was Lewis. That game was loss because of 2 person. ACR & MLC/MLP (this later is for Matt LaPoodle or Matt LaPussy). First for his panick that produce his only DA vision and second by his game plan that was lack on ground game. If that was not MLP mistake (game plan), than for lack of one pair of organs which gives the men strength & courage/nerve to bench the player who is not following game plan!

-6 points
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porupack's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:30 am

While I have lost faith in the capabilities of LaFleur and Barry, the disrespect of name calling is poor for a fan site. I get the frustration, but c'mon.

13 points
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egbertsouse's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:54 am

I agree. Just call him LaFlower, which is an apt description and merely a translation of his name from French to English.

3 points
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TOMMY'63's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:03 am

For Nick Perry.I agree. We have problems with management for sure. After see mlf as hc. I have never been fooled by his winning record of the first 3 seasons. He doesn't have the competences or character to be a hc. Full stop! His play calling is so so,he doesn't know how to make adjustments, how to show authority and discipline to his players. Im curious about what happens when he an arod go over film, like last year's game when lazzard wide open over the middle, remember? What does he say to arod when its 3rd and short and its bombs away? An authorative coach would have fixed arods ass year's ago. Could you imagine bart throwing bombs in double coverage on 3rd and short at Lombardi? Also nick he plans on keeping Barry. Can't he see that Barry doesn't have the compentences to coach. The 70s and 80s are around the corner

1 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:15 am

Why is it every time this team doesn't make the playoffs, which is pretty rare btw, it's the "70's and 80's are right around the corner"? Hyperbole much? It's either Super Bowls or it's the 70's and 80's all over again?

I firmly believe if 2023 is a repeat of 2022, we'll have a new coaching staff in 2024. I guess I'm one of the few on here who actually has confidence in the FO and their ability to get things back on track.

Because we lost one more game than we won this year, we're going to suck for the next 20 years?. People need to take a breath and get a grip. Seriously.

-2 points
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T7Steve's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:02 am

The difference between now and the 70s and 80s is cap. Because of the cap young "well coached" teams with a good "organization" can go from worst to first in a year or two.

What resembles the 70s and 80s isn't the talent on the Packers it's the organization. Where did they put us with the cap? What options do they have?

After learning through the 70s and 80s they finally hired a game changing manager (Ron W.) that didn't rely on mostly ex-Packer Hall of Famers to be coaches. By hitting on two Hall of Fame QBs in a row, they've been able to get complacent again and let things ride.

7 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:22 am

"What resembles the 70s and 80s isn't the talent on the Packers it's the organization."

I agree that the organization...aka the front office... is the underlying component here. But where I disagree is that the current FO in any way resembles the FO of the 70's and 80's. One of the primary reasons that time period was so dismal was hanging onto Starr as HC/GM for 9 years and his 52-76-3 record. He should have been fired after his first 3 teams went 13-29. Yet they kept him on for 6 more years. You really think this FO would put up with that kind of mediocrity?

I have no idea what the future holds, but to suggest this team is going to "suck" for the next 20 years after one losing season doesn't make much sense to me. As I said above, if there is no improvement next year, I believe there will be wholesale changes.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:23 am

Three whiffs on Joe Montana...Ouch.

0 points
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jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 03:57 pm

Look at contracts, look at percentage of cap for Rodgers and then tell me that we're not going to suck for the next several years. Either we cut bait with a fair number of STARTERS or we push the misery forward into the late 2020s. Face it, we are done as a contender as long as Murphy haunts 1265.

0 points
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NickPerry's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:35 am

I have confidence in Gute but unfortunately MLF wasn't Gutes hire. Murphy has involved himself in Football Decisions. Ron Wolf, Ted Thompson didn't have to but Gute has since the day he started and it's bullshit IMO.

The reason I say the 70's and 80's is I have ZERO confidence in Murphy. Just look at the friggen salary cap! When have the Packers EVER added on "Void Years" and continued to push money back. Only since Murphy became more involved and SHOVED Rodgers down our throat has the cap been a real issue.

I think Gutes drafting showed us what ideas he has in the transition from Rodgers. Murphy just keeps getting in the way.

8 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:18 pm

I 100% agree that the Rodgers contract was a huge mistake. I just don't agree it's going to take a decade or more to get out from under it. Once we get the cap manageable again, which realistically could be in a couple years, and with the young talent on this team, and if Love turns out to be a decent QB, I see no reason to think this can't be a very competitive team by '24 or '25 at the latest.

Maybe that's overly optimistic, but suggesting we're headed back to the incompetence of the 70's is, in my opinion, unrealistically negative.

Only time will tell I guess.

3 points
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jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:01 pm

They'll have to pay Love $20 million to keep him, on top of Rodgers' what, $45 million? WIth a cap in the $225 million or so range? Yeah, Love is probably gone. Look for a rookie backup next year, unless we extend Love with guaranteed money (cheap salary in 23 and 24, expensive and guaranteed in 25 and 26). A rookie means "David Whitehurst", "Jerry Tagge", "Scott Hunter". Get the picture?

-1 points
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NickPerry's picture

January 11, 2023 at 06:06 am

"Maybe that's overly optimistic, but suggesting we're headed back to the incompetence of the 70's is, in my opinion, unrealistically negative."

That I agree with, mostly because Murphy is getting older and won't be there 20 years but also I didn't mean it would TAKE 20 years, just that it would be something like those years in the 70's and/or 80's.

1 points
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Since'61's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:42 am

Great post Nick and spot on! To me the true, core underlying issue with the Packers is accountability from Murphy on down. There is literally no accountability in the organization. Murphy is cruising until he retires. He didn't even put much effort into hiring MLF after only one interview and all he did was promote Gute after TT.

Gute won't make a move on MLF or MLC as I now refer to him. MLC (Matt La Chooch) won't hold Barry accountable and he has made poor hiring decisions since he's been hired. As Jody pointed out he stuck with players like Amari Rodgers and Lowry far too long. Then in the Lions game he kept Walker on the field when he should have been pulled before the disqualification.

He is non-confrontational to the point of hurting the team such as not sitting Rodgers while he was injured which probably cost the team a game or two in which if Love had started the Packers may have been able to score enough points to win.

The nature of the HC position like any managerial/leaership position requires difficult decisions to be made and if necessary at least some level of confrontation or assertion of the authority in the position. Coaches need to make the decisions to help the team. Failure to do so could and maybe did deliver the wrong message to the team.

All of this goes down to the players' level and holding each other accountable for their play on the field. Rodgers is routinely criticized for it but he seems to be the only player on the team, or at least on the offense, who is willing to hold players, usually one of his receivers, accountable. But the rest of the organization doesn't show any level of accountability. As we've seen that just doesn't work and like you Nick I'm concerned that the 70s and 80s may be just around the corner. Thanks, Since '61

4 points
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Packerpasty's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:06 pm

Cool!! The "Gory Years" return!!! Expectations will be low!! Doesn't seem like management can keep a winning tradition alive once their all Pro QB gets old...they don't know what the hell to do...bring back a fired from Denver O coach? If he come back he'll beg Rodgers to come back watch and see...MLF doesn't have much more time before hopefully him and his staff are shown the door....Packers need a Vrabel or Campbell type now....

4 points
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Houndog's picture

January 10, 2023 at 01:29 pm

As is often the case I'm late to this party, damned work just keeps getting in the way.
And again as it often the case, you nailed it Nick, driving that 20 penny home in one swing! I couldn't agree more, with evrything you said.
The problem starts at the top with (sorry porupack) Mark "Howdy Doody" Murphy, the power monger real estate mogul that's running (and ruining) this organization.
Secondly is MLF, No huevos, Nada! But he's Murphy's guy! He can't or won't reign in Rodgers, he can't or won't fire poor assistants, he's not worth a $hit as a cheerleader, and he can't comprise a decent game plan.
Bring back Bob Harlan for a half day, and get this house in order.

3 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:14 am

Just MaLF's decisions on STs and Defensive Coordinators are reason enough to send him packing, let alone how poorly his offense performed all season. He's suppose to be an offensive minded HC and his offense has sucked. Terrible play calling, terrible play design, easily as predictable as MM ever was. The good 'old boys network at 1265 Lombardi Avenue is in full swing.

The way the team played in a "win and in" scenario was unacceptable and Murphy, Gutey, MaLF, and Barry should all be held accountable. Terrible personnel decisions throughout the year, which were obvious to lay-persons such as ourselves, took weeks to be fixed, which is also unacceptable.

Nobody is holding Murphy, Gutey, MaLF, or Barry accountable. Nobody. The structure of this organization is unacceptable all-around. Accountability is essential for growth and an ostrich with his head in the sand has more accountability than this organization.

Reminds me of Kevin Bacon in Animal House screaming "All is Well!" over and over.

10 points
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egbertsouse's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:03 am

You are correct, sir. The organizational structure inhibits or prevents accountability. This structure plus a business model that is risk averse to the point where maintaining the status quo is the primary goal which leads to overvaluing their own assets. They end up with a team full of players who are paid way more than their actual production.

5 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:43 am

And just like Bacon, I hope MLF gets fried!

4 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:03 am

They just care if the stands are full.

7 points
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jvole's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:31 am

I think MLF is a better OC than people give him credit for. His first and second year's offense was fun to watch. But slowly the offense has started looking like what Rodgers likes to run and MLF has become neutered. Rodgers has preferred sets and as they gave him the keys to the franchise they gave him the OC role as well. MLF is also not a personality who can stand up to Rogers and so here we are.

MLF should be an OC and not a head coach.

5 points
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Philarod's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:24 am

"I still think that Rodgers can go deep in the playoffs, but he has to understand that he cannot do it the same way that he did it four years ago. He needs to understand how good his personnel is and he needs to trust them."

I admit to being an Aaron Rodgers fan -- a big one. But I'm capable of objectivity as well. Rodgers played well enough for them to win Sunday night, but he no longer is the superhuman QB who dragged 6-10-type rosters to division championships and NFC contender status almost every year.

But, trust his personnel? Who, exactly? The 5 pillars of granite blocking for him, who got punked by the Lions' D-line in the second half. Yes, it appeared that Bakh played well the last couple weeks, but the unit underwent many changes, and Jenkins never looked like the same talented lineman after returning from injury. The Packers had good run-pass balance throughout this game till the last series, but the run game didn't get them much.

And then, what exactly, do the Packers have on offense? A burner in Watson (great potential), who was mostly out of the lineup this year and still learning various routes. Doubs? Who couldn't catch a cold Sunday evening, and also missed lots of time. Lazard? A 3 or a 4 on a good offense...and same with Cobb. Or maybe, the slowest (yes, Tonyan used to have more of a burst and may regain it next year?) least talented group of tight ends in the NFL. There's not much there. Next year or looking forward? Maybe so. Right now, it's just not a good offensive supporting cast.

(Not a problem as our defense is noted for their clutch play in must-win games. as they're so tough, smart and well-coached.)

As to his "rocketballs", the INT came on 3rd-and-long when the Lions brought the house. I don't know if he reasonably had a makeable short throw to get the first down there. Some of the other rocketballs were on the money -- the one where Watson made an impressive catch despite DPI, and the first one to Lazard (on the money) that drew a DPI. I didn't like the one he heaved on the free play, as it landed out of bounds, but all in all, not bad. And he probably underthrew Jones down the sideline, but credit that damn Lions' CB. But yeah, it's not like this team throws a lot of weapons at you, and one player that may be a weapon, Aaron Jones, unfortunately, had a very costly fumble. I love A. Jones, but this really hurt, and was not that surprising.

4 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:00 am

I agree with much of what you said.

Rodgers can still be a one of the top QB's in the league. But the offense definitely lacks weapons. He has to have more talent around him then he used to. During the lions game it felt that the only WR that could get open was Watson. Lazard had some good catches but he isn't a top target guy. He is the goon that does a tremendous job blocking and is a reliable 3rd down WR type. They need more weapons!

Rodgers wasn't perfect in the Lions game by any stretch. But he also had 4 dropped passes. The one to Doubs likely is a big play but he doesn't catch it. The final interception I don't really blame him for it. The Lions sent everyone and i think they only had 3 WR's running routes.

The Jones fumble imo changed the game. They were driving at the end of half. They likely score at least a FG before halftime. Which they would have went into halftime at 12-3 or if they got a TD it would have been 16-3. Instead its 9-6 at halftime.

5 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:24 am

They need two TEs who can separate and control the hook zones. Every QB has to have his safety valve. The inane coaching decisions were self-inflicted wounds, gifting Field Position and Momentum to the Lions. That type of bullshit takes some of the edge from your players and puts undo burden on the game manager. The defensive side of the ball goes into a predictable shell. These "strategic" maneuvers come from the HC. Tolerating the same mistakes from 2019-22 reveals a discipline problem. A.Jones carrying the ball in the wrong hand is a grade school football mistake. Did not attend any games this year. The whole operation has turned me Off.

5 points
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packerbackerjim's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:45 am

Your analysis is correct particularly about “trust the personnel “ suggestion. As is usually the case, the OL determined the outcome of every game this season. They crumbled facing great DLs, struggled against good DLs, and looked dominant against inferior ones. As for the TE position, if you took the best feature of all 4 on the roster and combined them you would have a very good TE. Their limitations impaired the offense. For comparison,look at the NYG under Parcells: great OL with Bavaro at TE. Or a Dallas under Jimmy Johnson and Witten at TE. The easiest, least expensive fix would be severely upgrading these areas.

The organizational chaos can be addressed in other rants.

2 points
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packerbackerjim's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:01 am

Novacek, not Witten. Both far superior than the current Packer TEs.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:22 am

Daboll went with Bellinger this past draft. He was available, but Gutedkunst thought Rhyan was his guy. We are still one or two drafts behind the curve, started in 2018. Love will want a trade, if LaFleur wants his security blanket HOF guy.

0 points
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Philarod's picture

January 11, 2023 at 07:37 pm

Agreed.
But you don't have to go back in time: I'll bet that there are 25-plus teams with better TE groups right now, and probably that many with better (at today's value) WR groups.

0 points
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Since'61's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:48 am

Good post Phiarod. Like you I have been a Rodgers supporter throughout his career. I agree with you to a point about Rodgers weapons. However, I think the OL limits Rodgers and the offense more than the weapons available to Rodgers. Jones and Dillon are good backs but the OL blocking was inc consistent against the Lions and has been inconsistent against stout DLs for a long time. For example they dominated the Vikings DL but failed to do so against the Lions especially during the second half.

As for Rodgers receivers the receiving corps is in a transitional stage. Cobbs is older and Lazard is too slow and drops passes. Watson and Doubs are young and very early in their development. Doubs was ineffective against the Vikings and the Lions. Watson came on strong at the end of the season but still has a long way to go. Our TEs, Lewis and Tonyan, are non-existent from a receiving point of view but solid blockers. Tongan has good hands but can't move to pick up any YAC. Lewis is a decent red zone/short yardage threat but is far past his prime.

As for the interception at the end of the Lions game Rodgers was hit as he released the ball causing the "wounded duck" perception of the throw. It may not have been completed in any case.

Bottom line\e is that until the Packers reestablish a culture of accountability for results they could continue to spiral down into an era of increasingly poor play.
Thanks, Since '61

3 points
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Philarod's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:43 pm

I enjoy your posts, Since'61 - and I think we're in agreement on all these points.

Full disclosure (no surprise, I guess from my screen name and posts): I'm, geographically, and for many years (I guess that would be "Since 1970") an Eagles fan. I've always admired and liked the Packers as well, and really started following them as a fan since Rodgers came over. Not sure exactly why, but I just knew from the first time I saw him, he just threw the ball differently. And had a presence. Right up there with the best I had seen prior to then -- Marino, etc....but with Elway's rocket arm and athleticism. I identified with him waiting his turn on draft day, waiting his turn for three seasons to play and just looked at everything he brought to the table. During the Super Bowl rum -- especially the Falcons game and in the SB itself, when i watched Rodgers, i felt like I was watching the best to ever do it. And except for a year or two along the way, nothing has caused me to change that assessment. Not Brady, Manning, Mahomes, etc., though all are amazing.

Since Rodgers, I started following the Pack to the point where the Packers have become 1-A and the Eagles 1-B. Crazy, but... And just as it seems totally unfair that Marino never won a SB, it's equally ludicrous that a QB as great as Rodgers only won one -- whether due to horrible defenses, coin flips or depleted rosters. No, he has not made every play, but even in the postseason and in other must-win games. Rodgers has made some amazing, iconic plays. Last year, I don't think he played well versus the Niners, but even on Sunday, he couldn't carry them, but I do think he played well enough to win with what he could control. I resist the choker narrative -- completely unfair.

While nobody is above criticism (and I heartily disagree with him on his vaccination stance, but find him otherwise great to listen to in press conferences and other interviews), I still consider Rodgers the best QB I have seen play in (pretty much) the whole SB Era. If somebody says Brady, though, I'm a little less inclined now to argue vociferously. Whether injuries or starting to age, he's not the guy who can still lift mediocre to bad teams to great heights. Not sure who can. Brady can't anymore - and he always had either loaded offenses or great defenses. Mahomes hasn't had to do it, and Peyton never really had to.

I still think Rodgers's level is Top 5 or 6 in the league, and if starting a team for just one season (and if all were healthy at their present ages), I may only take Mahomes, Burrow, Allen, Hurts...and, and...not sure who else above him. So, he may have another couple strong years left, but at this point, I'm not as invested in him staying in GB. Not only has Jordan Love awaited his turn, but maybe, the run is really over here, and if Rodgers retired or went elsewhere (much as it would be great if like Elway and Marino, he played for only one team), it wouldn't be the end of my football world.

The shame of Sunday night was that, whether he returns or not next year, if they won, he and the team would have received a big ovation just for making the postseason, and then the Pack could play with house money in SF, and if they caught lightning (or if Purdy let the moment get to him, for instance), they could make a longer run. But, just not to be.

3 points
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Since'61's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:57 pm

Good points Philarod. Personally I'm hoping for Rodgers to retire. I believe that any player who has had a successful career, and Rodgers has had an HOF career, who can get out of the game healthy or without a permanent injury, should do so.

Football is a violent game. We need no further proof that the Damar Hamlin play from last week as proof of the potential violence that exists on every play. Rodgers has taken his share of heavy hits over his career. To me the risk/reward factor for players like Rodgers, Brady and several other veteran players leans more towards risk the longer they play. There are only so many hits a body can take before serous injury.

Your comment of becoming a Packers fan from watching Rodgers is intriguing to me. We are both long distance fans. I've been following the Packers from NYC and now NJ since the Lombardi era. I've been fortunate enough to get to Lambeau several times beginning in the 90s.

Since the Lombardi era the Packers have been a national team. Until the late 80s the Packers had about 2.5 million fans nationwide. During the Favre era about 1.5 to 2.0 million fans joined the ranks nationwide. The Rodgers era has added at least another 1.0 to 1.5 million fans. The current nationwide estimate of Packers fans is 5.0 to 5.5 million fans. Most of these fans are long distance fans but can be found in every state in the USA. The Packers also have fans in numerous countries outside the USA.

It's a great organization to follow. Hopefully the team will make the necessary moves to stay on track, return to the playoffs and ultimately win another SB. Only time will tell. Either way I'm here for the duration. Stay safe.
Thanks, Since '61

2 points
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Philarod's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:39 pm

Great, thoughtful post as always - thank you, and be well...and Go, Birds! (had to sneak that one in)

2 points
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Since'61's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:11 pm

I will have no problem if the Eagles win the SB. They've had a great season. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
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Packers1985's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:06 pm

Yes i too agree that our success starts with our OL. The ol play is one of the main reasons for our struggles in the red zone. Even this last game how many runs are red zone were stopped for a yd or no gain.

1 points
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Packers1985's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:01 pm

I too agree it's not all the blame on him and this team definitely needs some weapons. But again isn't 12 being paid the team's top amount. So as the reigning MVP and the one who is charging bulk of the salary cap is expected to show up in the big moments like last week. Unfortunately the last 2 years he did nothing in those big moments. The bucs game i give him a pass as it is really difficult to score 30+ points against that defense after loosing our premier tackle. But the remaining two the one against the 49ers and yesterday he didn't step up in the big moment.

1 points
1
0
porupack's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:25 am

Agreed with most all of your points, packers were never very good this year. They weren't that great the last 3 years when examined by discipline, execution, playing complete games, and bullying the opponent. GB played one dominant game this year. Probably only one last year. Sure they were good by their record, and that is certainly the most important indicator, but the record, was also helped by quirky luck (key injuries on other teams), and more mistakes committed by other teams. GB just was under-achieving for quite a long time, and not really rectified by MLF. GB had key injuries on Oline 2 playoff years in a row, but 49ers fared worse, and still always fought like hell. Talent was there. Leadership change is the next variable to tinker with. For this discussion, my definition of tinker is to send them packing. Goodbye LaFleur and Barry. And when you make that kind of change, you may as well shed some big contracts and do a partial rebuild since the disruption would cost a few games in the following season at least.

9 points
9
0
croatpackfan's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:27 am

Cory, MLP/MLC should be sitting on red hot chair from 2020 season as there was clear that he can not control his QB, who cares only about himself and nobody else.

The main problem is complete coaching staff, especially this season composition of it. All of them are on the positions that are way over their heads and capabilities (knowledge too?).

If they are only realizing orders from true "we are not idiots" GM, that would be ultimate reason to fire them all, as they are not doing the jobs for which they got checks.

All others explanations are just excuses for disfunctional and disjoint team.

6 points
7
1
coolhand's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:43 am

When I see interviews with Dan Campbell I think, now that is a head football coach. When I see the flower, I think he's a school teacher.

4 points
4
0
mnbadger's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:26 pm

I see my neighborhood newspaper delivery person.
GPG!

2 points
2
0
Celise...'s picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:48 pm

While i agree that this coaching staff is not good... the real problem is that fact that Mark Murphy took control 4 years ago and there is only 1 reason he would need to do that is to make decisions HE thinks are good. Bob Harlan came in and gave total control to the football people and we've been winning every year (even the superbowl twice) since. Now Murphy takes over and we are doomed to poor football decisions. Don't blame Gutey when you have someone above him suggesting what he should do! Who wouldn't do that knowing they could be fired if they didn't. Murphy is to blame.

2 points
2
0
RCPackerFan's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:37 am

IMO the biggest mistake LaFleur can make is to keep Joe Barry. Yes while the defense improved later in the year, it shouldn't be enough to keep Barry's job. The Defense was supposed to carry the team until the offense caught up. We knew the offense was not going to be great right away. The problem was the defense wasn't great. And that falls at the feet of the DC.
Its time to move on.

The defense did not step up like it should have in the second year. There were way to many issues on the defensive side that needs to be fixed. The Vikings game showed us how this defense could play. When they were aggressive. Problem is they have been playing way to passive. The players are there for this to be a great defense. The problem starts with the putting the players in the best position to succeed. For example against the Lions the announcers said they talked to Goff, and one of the things that he said was he liked having Douglas in the slot because he isn't good there. And he didn't like him outside cuz he is great there. Why is it that opposing teams could figure out Douglas is a boundary CB but our DC couldn't?

The Vikings game was what we thought this defense was going to be all year. The problem with this was it was the 2nd to last game of the season. And the following week they reverted back to their soft coverage crap. 4th and 2 and CB's are 5+ yards off the ball. Things like that are all coaching issues.

13 points
13
0
Guam's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:08 am

Local Wisconsin paper quoted LaFleur as saying he wants to keep Barry next season. He believes continuity is essential to the Packers contending next year.

I have no words for this.........

8 points
8
0
LambeauPlain's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:17 am

Try "delusion."

4 points
4
0
Leatherhead's picture

January 10, 2023 at 03:50 pm

Try derangement

2 points
2
0
RCPackerFan's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:57 am

Yeah he said that in his press conference last night.

I just don't get why.

1 points
1
0
GP1's picture

January 10, 2023 at 03:30 pm

And MLF is reaching out to a former Head coach that didn't last 1 season and whose play calling was breathtakingly bad and is considering him as our play caller.
It is an episode of the Simpsons.

3 points
3
0
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:43 am

"The packer's weren't very good." POINT: Well- Neither is the GM then!
Gutey is responsible for the Roster. Not Rodgers, MLF or Barry.
And while everyone wanted to Tank. The problem points right at It!
Rodger's brought the Packers back. He demanded to play. Thats Leadership.
Refusing to give up. Regardless what the roster looks like.
So get off MLFs back. And Tell Gutey to get the weapons needed to replace Adams!
And This OL was nothing but an experiment in the early going.
Again who's to blame for never getting a RT? (Since Bulaga and Turner left? )
Next: Fire Barry.
This Defense needs a Defensive Line in the top 10. Not dead Last.
How many Articles were published on the safety play?
And while they may have regressed. Thats still on Barry.
The collapse against the Lions was on everyone.
But- No body should come to Lambeau and beat us.
They own Barry. And The fake punt showed the desperation.

-7 points
4
11
jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:43 am

There is much truth to the Gutedkunst target. He whiffed with the Walker move and no TE talent was added in rds. 3-4. We saw the deficit all season. He is a 40+/-60 % hit ratio guy, but LaFleur has to be part of the discussion.
The game management decisions seemed right out of a frat house Red Bull session playing Madden. This guy added Risk /Burden onto his team's shoulders. The play callingl did not mix up the salad and was predictable. The power run game was abandoned with Deguara leading the backs. When the opponents double your RB on the wheel route the first time, it should be a clue to counter. He is not HC material. Kleen Haus.

-1 points
2
3
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:11 pm

He didn't Whiff on Walker. The game was over when they booted him out.
If they switch to the 4-3-4. He will replace Campbell. If not force Gary and P. smith to DE.
The best Tes are in demand and will be gone by the second rd.
Gutey should never have taken Deguara.

-2 points
1
3
jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:28 pm

Barry is retained, so more of the same. If you want a 4-3/4-2 hybrid, they have to Fire Barry and get one of Spag's guys. I will take complete LBs like Anzalone over the RAS guys. The Sporting News article from year's back was one of the best I have ever read. The discussion was Defense. Jim Johnson and Belichick illustrated what they look for in their guys: Leadership qualities( team captains), intelligence( they liked guys who graduated). Athletic prowess came in second. They both ran Complicated defenses that dominated the opponents. The brain trust has to accumulate more than one pick in round two. Get a receiving TE like Kincaid or Tucker Kraft (Kelce type guy) and get one of the Big Ten TEs ( Schoonmaker,, Durham, Stover, or Musgrave) in rd 3 or 4. Effective offenses need two solid TEs on the field. My explanation stays the same: #22 should have been Watson, #29 (i) had Wyatt. The #53 could have given them McBride or Pierce; the #59, Abe Lucas and your RT hole plugged. Gutedkunst is a product of nepotism. Wolf, Sr. called out the coup. The ILB could have been bagged in rd 3.

0 points
1
1
Dragon5's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:58 am

I, as many, have issues with all 3 (Pres/GM/HC).

A huge void that we don't see mentioned often, if at all, is the lack of leadership on this team, and not just on the coaching end, but on the field. The scouting / vetting draft process is supposed to identify it via watching tape and interviews. Rodgers expects execution, yet refused to put in the extra time that may have grown chemistry...and I get his POV...but his POV also denies the rooks the chance to surprise. OL injuries and subsequent head scratching musical chairs by management has left us devoid of continuity for a couple years. The defense continues to show, year in, year out, that the sum of the parts is not greater than the whole. Undisciplined, me-first attitudes--we lack the general(s) that demand and hold accountable the T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Accomplishes More) mentality.

Here's a thought for LaFlake:
bench Rodgers for a series on the next "Favre chuck"
bench Jones or anyone else for a series for any key fumble or missed assignment
Belichick is widely know to hold his players accountable, soft Matt gets angry and pats his guys on the ass. His heresay teaches the team that failure is acceptable, when it should be the complete opposite.

4 points
4
0
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:02 pm

Hero ball benching. I know it's done to stretch the field.
But something tells me Rodgers is protecting the starters.
He knows this team wasn't Super-Bowl ready.
So why not piss everyone off.
Protecting Draft picks; is not what Rodgers does.
Think about that. The coaches do.

-2 points
0
2
dblbogey's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:31 am

When they continued to play Royce Newman and Jake Hanson for half the season, while Zach Tom and Yosh sat on the bench, and when they continued to let Amari be the return man well after he had proved his incompetence, I realized the coaches making the decisions are clueless.

8 points
8
0
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:57 am

Can't say your wrong. The call for Toure sitting was bad too.

1 points
2
1
porupack's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:49 am

I agree with Philarod re: those deep shots. There has been lots of discussion in the past that opposing defenses played the pack tight because there was no fear of deep balls, and the offense was always going for short passes. The deep shots are necessary in the strategy of the game to get the defense to allocate resources in the backfield. And a coach has to let his receivers go make a play....as Watson did. They're pros so take the training wheels off sometimes, and toss a jump ball. It seemed like Detroit's CB Joseph had a script handed to him by Campbell, and they knew Rodger's tendencies and knew how to bait him. Joseph had 3 INTs he earned, though one was nullified by penalty. THREE! That means the offensive tendencies, and Rodgers is quite obvious for opposing defenses to game plan. They baited GB by first bottling up the run game, knowing that the offense would get frustrated, so they knew when to send the full blitz, and then they knew where Rodgers was likely to go. Campbell used Joseph, the rookie as a clever troll against Watson.

6 points
7
1
pacman's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:50 am

I wholeheartedly agree with the commenters - it's mostly on MLF and I've been saying he's the problem for the last few years. Now we don't know if he is being handcuffed by Murphy. I assume that firing a senior coach is discussed and needs to get approval. But certainly the red zone offense issue - lack of creativity to get the ball in the end zone is all on MLF.

I don't believe the players are an 8-9 team. It's on MLF - those games in years past that they came out totally flat (those 'burn the tape' games - how I hate that comment!), red zone, special teams (even this year by sticking with Amari), and more. He lost a lot of coaches as successful teams do and look what he has replaced them with. Things just aren't working.

To be fair, after back to back MVP years, could anyone expect this type of drop in QB production? So now will he be able to bounce back like he did after they drafted Love? I suspect they keep it together for one more year as that's how they've been doing things. And maybe AR does bounce back. But without that, it's another year of the same. So next year will look a lot like this year. Gee - isn't that something to look forward to!

So who/what do they draft in the first round?

6 points
6
0
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:04 am

Name one player who's a Red Zone threat. The speed stretches the Field.
If it's Lazard; he got stuffed. If it's Dillion; he got stuffed. If it's Jones; he fumbles the ball.
The TE? Use to be. But is Tonyan?

0 points
3
3
jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:07 am

If they move on from Bhak, (why)? They will have to look OT round one or two. I would in any case. Runyan may have to be replaced. Maybe the personnel dept. thought Rhyan would move into his spot. Myers crushed again by bull rushes. Creed Humphrey looking at another All Pro award. Rodgers is no different than Cousins or any QB with pressure in his face. It all starts upfront. Nijman cannot be your starter. LaFleur could not scheme for Toure. He should have been the other deep threat. The #15 spot gives them a chance to move down in the first and try to secure another Two pick. Then they have three in the top 60. OT,TE, WR or CB. Third round RB , DT ( Keeanu Benton) or Safety. Running back in the fourth. So many holes, so little money. Do not know the comp pick formula at this time.

1 points
2
1
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:51 am

If Rodgers comes back - Bahk comes back. They can't pay Lazard or Tonyan. 10 mil. And Lewis.
Hate to say it. - Time to drafts TEs. They are serious about Mayer from ND. Wr second rd.
They must go offense if they are to beat Detroit. Red Zone! Red Zone is the key.

0 points
2
2
jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 05:04 pm

They claim Mayer is a Gronk type TE. I've watched some of his games. He can move in the zones and Get Open, put the hurt on DEs. I am not opposed to snagging Mayer. The name of the Game is now offense, Score Points, Win.
Cannot waste cash on Tonyan and Big Dog should retire. He is not to be confused with Tony Gonzales, who Ted failed to deal a two pick to obtain.

1 points
2
1
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:16 pm

absolutely.

0 points
0
0
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:56 am

Pac....more of the same next year is what is keeping me up at night. I struggled all year even watching this team but someone please reassure me management will not hose this up this offseason and repeat the same next year. Pulease!

4 points
4
0
jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:15 am

Cannot help you, my friend. Life is Suffering, says the Buddha.

3 points
3
0
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:21 am

Thanks Jannes....

:)

1 points
1
0
greengold's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:31 am

Oh, Duder, if only you could see the Buddha paintings I've done... Top shelf response j.

2 points
2
0
GP1's picture

January 10, 2023 at 03:35 pm

Aaron is 40 next year; it's over. His glory days are gone.For his sake and for ours it is time to move on.

1 points
1
0
jannes bjornson's picture

January 10, 2023 at 05:25 pm

Brady is 45 and in the playoffs.

0 points
0
0
jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:15 pm

On a sub-500 team, isn't he? He'll be bounced this weekend.

0 points
0
0
jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:11 pm

AR is old and washed. Oh yeah, Murphy will want to keep him, but without a #1 defense we'll be destroyed week in and week out. And then Murphy will retire and be named to the Packers Hall of Fame while we watch the team regress in 24 and 25.

Murphy must be a Vikings fan.

2 points
2
0
mrtundra's picture

January 10, 2023 at 07:56 am

"IMO the biggest mistake LaFleur can make is to keep Joe Barry. Yes while the defense improved later in the year, it shouldn't be enough to keep Barry's job." This mistake is exactly what is going to happen. Look for more soft Defense when it's 4th and 2, next season.

11 points
11
0
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:05 am

absolutely!

3 points
3
0
4thand1's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:24 am

Matty Nice lost this team. When you see the bone head plays, penalties by Walker, Douglas in a big game, not being able to call out AR, letting Barry do what he does with no push back. The team has no fear of reprocussions.

14 points
14
0
GP1's picture

January 10, 2023 at 03:36 pm

I think all the Hair dye has got into his brain

0 points
0
0
Razer's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:36 am

The inmates have been running the prison on this team. Matt LaFleur has been catering to Aaron Rodgers since taking the reins from McCarthy. The nonsense that we saw from Douglas, Walker and Wyatt tells you that there isn't discipline and there isn't team first. This culture will not change unless the coaching changes it. Detroit had to learn this over many years and many failed high draft picks.

The management and front office has made a bed that can't be easily fixed. We need more offensive playmakers. We need trench help on both sides of the ball. We need a decent TE. We need secondary help. We threw all the resources into an aging and self-centered QB and now have no money to fix the rest of the team. All we have is the draft and that is 50/50 at best. The reluctance to face this reality last year has already made the rebuild more difficult.

Get your parkas boys - it is going to get cold.

14 points
14
0
T7Steve's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:36 am

The off-season test for the front office and coaches will be easy to gauge. If not addressed, they should all be gone. As Nick above said, it will look like the 70s and 80s all over again.

It all comes down to the O and D lines. If they don't strengthen those groups and get some depth (including TEs and edge), we're looking at a long road to recovery. They have individual pieces, but not total units. It's not an option if you want to win in the NFL (or any football team actually).

Since they have no cap space, they're going to have to do it through the draft.

Those units being in the top ten of the NFL is the glue that can make even 4th round through undrafted skill players look like All pros.

Look how successful a 7th round QB looks on the 49ers. I could go on and on listing. Even some skill players that beat the Packers this year with lines that weren't in the top ten but better that the Packers fronts.

5 points
6
1
PatrickGB's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:39 am

“ So what does that mean? Either the expectations for Rodgers need to be readjusted or his throwing thumb has been worse than we all thought.”
Those are my thoughts as well. Like many others I have disliked the defense this year. Yet, it’s been the offense that has really let us down. Sure, injury’s to the line and having rookies (in and out of the injury report) have not helped. But Rodgers has not been on target as much as we are used to. Even with a substandard defense the team should have scored more points.

7 points
7
0
Coldworld's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:01 am

In my view, Rodgers this season put up a middle of the pack performance. I firmly believe that part of that was LaFleur’s personnel usage and offensive design and a roster built for a post Rodgers era. However, the fact remains that Rodgers was not elite at any point in this season and he’s neither as mobile or as accurate as he was 2 years ago, let alone 5. Yet he’s paid to be and he’s going to be locking up considerably more cap if he is here next season. That’s simply not a recipe for success.

LaFleur has shown nothing again in terms of personnel or strategy. In fact he was visibly out thought and coached by opponents several times during the season. The reality is we have a sub par leader, with very questionable personnel skills both in terms of players and coaches and a QB paid for the past and about to hit 40. We also have no cap—we will be shedding talent.

This team is in dire need of an intervention, but our President is the architect of the mess and has overseen the nomination of the entire board: they are here at his instigation. These are dark days indeed. There are darker to come. This is the time when an aware Board should intervene and put proper separation of powers back. That starts with removal of Murphy and restoration of the Harlen structure. That will almost inevitably lead to change below, because our coaching is frankly laughably bad.

11 points
11
0
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:07 am

If Rodgers thumb was truly that bad than to me continually playing Rodgers when you have a 1st round draft pick in Jordan Love sitting on the bench is the biggest indictment LF should be fired.

Conversely...LF should simply be fired for not providing Jordan Love meaningful playing time regardless of the thumb injury. Personally, I do not believe the thumb injury was as bad as made out to be, otherwise Love would have played. There wasnt one game that I recall where Rodgers played exceptional. I believe somewhere in there the thumb injury became a convenient excuse.

7 points
8
1
Coldworld's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:13 am

I don’t have much faith in Barry, but if the two, it’s certainly fair to say that, when it mattered, his unit performed better than the offense. That is not a reason to keep Barry. Rather it’s an illustration of the fact that the bigger problems lie above him and they are the ones that have to be expunged if this team is to improve. If this D had been great, LaFleur still wouldn’t have got it done based upon what the O did and how the team was prepared, even with a fully healthy Rodgers all year. The D and Barry are a problem but not the defining one.

4 points
4
0
LambeauPlain's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:33 am

Good points and I mostly agree...except to say the D performed better than the O. Both were coached to below average performance.

The D is loaded with talent, poorly employed. Had the D been a dominant unit, as expected before the season, the Pack would have made the playoffs a few weeks ago, in spite of the stumbling O (and probably another early exit).

The only time Barry's D would stop anybody and get the players off the field and keep them fresher for the 4th QTR, is with turnovers...the great equalizer.

Turnovers didn't happen on Sunday and Barry Ball was exposed to who they are...soft. In the end, the D predictably failed again in the 4th QTR as the Lions took what Barry gave them...all the way to zeros on the game clock.

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:06 pm

To be clear, my point was neither to argue Barry should be retained nor to claim that the D shouldn’t be better thsn it was or more talented than the O, merely that the D was not the worst performing phase over the last month or so, while the offense was, consistently.

1 points
1
0
TOMMY'63's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:01 am

Hey knock,mlf and medical staff knew well the extent of arods thumb by the xrays ct scans. Its just they didn't tell the extent of his injury. Why did mlf continue playing arod , observing all of his inaccurate throws? Maybe believing arod with a fractured thumb was better than a healthy love? This shows they don't think highly of love,no?

0 points
2
2
Coldworld's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:44 am

This team is, unfortunately, showing that the delusions that led to Rodgers extension remain endemic. LaFleur intends to keep Barry. It is business as usual. These people are living in a fantasy bubble. As long as we have LaFleur as Head Coach, this team will avoid the tough decisions, lack edge and be ultra cautious and fail to adjust in game or over the season.

As I feared, the wins at the back end against 2 wretched teams, a Dolphins team that had a howler and the Vikings have allowed this group to pretend that this season was acceptable, that there are no systemic issues and we can again trot into next year complacent and contend. The 70s and 80s are well and truly here.

Perhaps our only hope is that Rodgers grasps the futility or just decided he’s had enough, because it’s clear LaFleur thinks he’s doing fine, and thus one assumes Murphy does too and we can all be expected to be excited by another year if Rodgers, less cap and the same coaches that thrilled us all year.

If any of you think that this organization is healthy then good luck to you. Murphy has led this organization back to mediocrity and possibly worse.

11 points
12
1
LambeauPlain's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:37 am

How true. The Packers, under Murphy's bureaucratic Management by Committee and one of the worst coaching staffs in the NFL, are morphing into the football version of the United States Post Office.

5 points
5
0
stockholder's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:43 pm

CW - Your criticism is the same thing that lead to the down fall of MM. Put the blame where it belongs.
On the GM. Rodgers won two MVPs after MM left. They never got him the weapons needed.
They disrespected Rodgers and everyone knew it. Love , Dillion and that whole draft Sucked.
Yes- Rodgers is older. But- Rodgers is not the blame for change of momentum Sunday.
Fumbles , ejections. and Penalties cost us that game.
Rodgers hero ball, and MLFs decisions, are protecting the drafting failures of Gutey.
I'd want to be paid. And the money isn't there.
Not because of Rodgers. But Gutey protecting his favorites and choices.
Shouldn't he have waited like they did with Rodgers? Jones?
The early payments were the squeeze. It was to protect his choice of Love.
Love needs to be traded.
If Rodgers retires,
It will because of the business practices of Gutey.
The big money down the drain- A fumbling RB ? A injuries Bahk.
The lack of money for Adams. All Gm moves to keep his seat cold.

-2 points
3
5
Coldworld's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:03 pm

The current MM is the GM. Murphy is the root of all this and Murphy hired the coaches and resigned Rodgers, hesitated in the first ST coach hire and so on. He’s LaFleurs boss not Gute. Balk’s too. That’s actions and structure defining a GM.

1 points
1
0
jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:22 pm

Give it a rest. Please. You really have no idea what you're writing about. And I know you want Love traded because he's mixed race; that's been obvious for three years now.

You'll probably get your wish to see Love gone because we can't afford to keep both him and Rodgers.

-3 points
0
3
Charvid's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:44 am

“That’s a coaching issue…”

Cody, it’s ALL a coaching issue. The whole season has been a coaching issue. We were so out prepared and out motivated, it is ridiculous. A home game in December, with a playoff berth on the line and that is the best the team can show up??

Ya, it’s a coaching issue.

9 points
9
0
Packers2020's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:08 am

And they will find more ways to lose next year.

ML said in his presser, he is planning on keeping Barry as D-Coordinator and not making any staff changes.

Sigh....well there you go.

7 points
7
0
Coldworld's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:18 am

Rumor has it that the delay in getting rid of Drayton after last season was due to LaFleur planning to keep him and others basically ganging up to persuade Murphy to tell LaFleur that wasn’t happening.

7 points
7
0
LambeauPlain's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:43 am

So you are telling us there is still a chance!

Hopefully both Gutey and Ball, who can play in MLFs sandbox thanks to MM, can again gang up on Coach Milquetoast and save him from delusional self.

2 points
2
0
Packers2020's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:18 am

There are a lot more issues than Aaron Rodgers on this football team.

We do not have the talent on the offensive side of the football. The o-line is very average, the WR's are young and have dropped tons of footballs this season, (32 total. Tops in the league) and we have no difference makers at TE.

No matter what happens. If AR retires and Love takes over until Murphy is gone this team will not change. This coaching staff will not change. We are stuck with this average to below average team until 2025.

5 points
5
0
T7Steve's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:42 am

That's actually why I was glad that Love didn't see the field more. Could have easily wrecked him, physically and career wise.

2 points
2
0
LambeauPlain's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:47 am

Probably true and likely he can save his talents and career for his next team.

If Rodgers vainly returns, I expect the model teammate Jordan Love will demand a trade. I would not blame him.

3 points
3
0
jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:24 pm

I have this strange hunch that Love is the Lions' starter next season. Logically, it makes little sense because of Goff's contract, but for some reason I can't shake that scenario.

Oh, and he destroys the Packers over the next 10 years, too.

Fuck. Murphy,.

-1 points
1
2
PackfanNY's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:20 am

The entire season really was a slog. Reading through the comments clearly a number of issues exist and I don’t think we can dismiss any of them. Coaching, Rodgers, etc. However, the biggest issue is that this roster is not as good as it needs to be.

Ask yourself who is the pass rusher on this team? Gary getting hurt killed us but surely one guy was not the plan. Or was it?

Tight End? Tonyan was coming off a bad injury. Lewis is ancient and yet we have not replaced him. Face it Deguara is a bust or is not really a TE. I don’t see his value. Nice to say that we like good “blockers” but at some level we need more pass catching ability. We have great video of him when he was drafted in his “hybrid” role. Haven’t seen any of that.

The much discussed WR group improved during the season mainly Watson. Doubs seemed to be getting better and then unfortunately got hurt. He returned and frankly was atrocious. He dropped two balls on Sunday night. Just wasn’t a factor.

Most worrisome is that the two areas we spent the most capital the Offensive Line and the Defense both were either bad or wildly inconsistent. Think about all the draft picks and development time we have spent in these areas. Yosh Nijman was literally replaced mid game as Hutchison was destroying him. Yet we got Sunday night and an 8-9 finish.

Bottom line is that we have a lot of questionable areas, little cap room and some draft picks. Gute better hit this draft big time or pray that LaFleur and this coaching staff can cover some of these holes by coaching them up.

We are not in a great position for next year. Gary and Stoke uncertainty, Rodgers in or out, Love decision, Barry decision. I could go on but tough decisions loom.

10 points
10
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Packers1985's picture

January 10, 2023 at 06:33 pm

Hopefully Gutey does hit something this coming draft like how he did last yr not like the yr or 2 before. Safety, Tackle ,TE and WR are definitely a need

0 points
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Leatherhead's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:45 am

"""""I still think that Rodgers can go deep in the playoffs,""""""""

No. The ride is over. Go with Love.

I was rewatching the second half of the Lions game, and on play after play I asked myself "If that had been Love on the field, what might have happened differently"? An errant throw, an open running lane that Rodgers didn't take, an open receiver Rodgers didn't see.

I think we're in a very good position for next year. Trade Rodgers and Jones. Play Love, draft a replacement for Jones. Add a player at TE or WR, or both. Fortify the offensive line. Most of the defense returns. We can be competitive in 2023.

2 points
5
3
LambeauPlain's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:56 am

Thanks for being honest Cory, that "the Packers were never very good."

Because just a few days ago you wrote ""And that’s why this team is dangerous. Not just because they are talented, but because they have found joy again."

What a difference a few days can make. The joy was just a "fart in the wind" (Ron Wolf).

I still agree the PLAYERS are abundant talent...but the coaches were never very good. Rich did ok with the awful STs of 2021...but grades on the other coaches would objectively be very low.

4 points
4
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Leatherhead's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:15 am

"""""but the coaches were never very good""""

I think the word is Average. People have not liked that I used that word so much lately, but everything from the 8-9 record to the rankings in various statistical categories indicate that we were Average, and that includes the coaches.

So I don't think the grades on the coaches would be very low, I think they'd be average, wouldn't they?

BTW, nice burn for reminding Cory what he said a few days ago. And I agree we have a good amount of talent to work with in 2023 and I don't believe we have to do a major overhaul.

-1 points
1
2
LeotisHarris's picture

January 10, 2023 at 06:11 pm

I haven't had an issue with your use of the A-word, LH, with the exception of when you applied it to your dog. Bad form at best, but more likely a Crime of Great Magnitude because we ALL know your dog is the goodest boy/girl *and* a big sweetie AND as far from average as a dog can get. Your dog deserves a tee are eee aye tee right now!

0 points
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Rarescope's picture

January 10, 2023 at 01:54 pm

""Thanks for being honest Cory, that "the Packers were never very good."

Because just a few days ago you wrote ""And that’s why this team is dangerous. Not just because they are talented, but because they have found joy again." ""

And that is why I put zero stock in pretty much anything said, written, or reported on in the sports media. Just something to pay attention to during an otherwise dull day.

-1 points
0
1
TarynsEyes's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:12 am

“I’m going to be honest. The Packers were never very good.”

This statement speaks to the reality of the team. Then, we have to read this statement, which is a huge issue with the legit expectations that have been swept away.

“Despite how bad this season has gone, despite losing five games in a row and despite being ranked 26th in rushing yards per game allowed at 139.5, this team found itself one win from the postseason Promised Land.”

The Playoff Promised Land is a mirage that has been gifted to the Packers for a long time due to the horror show of the three Division rivals, that really weren't. Well, the shitshow has caught up to the Packers, as they have become a shitshow themselves.

Twelve years has passed since this team had a formula and desire to do what was needed to win CHAMPIONSHIPS. Yes, it's been at times a slow looking descent, but a descent nonetheless. The bottom pinnacle is in their grasp and with no changes expected, I don't envision a plan to stop the grasping of that victory.

I fully expect the writers here to again tell us how great everything will be next season, with the same shitshow leaders performing the same acts with a couple of new, likely lesser talented, and basement furniture mover overpaid performers.

Some TV shows and movies are great reruns to watch, but this Packer show isn't, as the ending is always the same. This show needs a new ending, and the FO, like some writers, spend their time hoping it changes while excusing the same results, either weekly or seasonally.

7 points
9
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:25 am

Taryn,
Very well stated and appreciated!

Nothing more true than this....

"The Playoff Promised Land is a mirage that has been gifted to the Packers for a long time due to the horror show of the three Division rivals, that really weren't. Well, the shitshow has caught up to the Packers, as they have become a shit show themselves".

3 points
4
1
LeotisHarris's picture

January 10, 2023 at 06:04 pm

"The bottom pinnacle is in their grasp and with no changes expected, I don't envision a plan to stop the grasping of that victory."

The entirety of this post has been your mantra since I've been around, Taryn, and I believe you have been and are correct in that assessment. You have stayed on-message throughout. Congrats.

The quote above, however, is written in classic Tarynese and may require interpretation for your more unfamiliar readers. Proposed edit:

The Packers have reached the nadir. I don't envision a plan to alter that status since no personnel changes are expected.

0 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

January 10, 2023 at 08:46 pm

The difference is I said they're grasping for the nadir, you implied that have already done so.

I could have also said, the Packers are trying hard to not be very successful, but resolved to just be thought of as successful. Which they're succeeding in doing.

Nah, I like Tarynese better.

0 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

January 10, 2023 at 09:32 pm

Well, perhaps, but if that's the case then I think you should refer to unreaching while extending toward the antipinnacle.

If you go with the success angle, infer they were almost always never not trying hard to reach success, but prefer to be imagined in imagery as what is only the wraith of a successful outcome.

0 points
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Dragon5's picture

January 10, 2023 at 10:34 am

CurdNation creativity in full swing...

LaFlake
LeFlower
Soft Matt
Matty Nice
Matt LaChooch

How much humour and ridicule will it take to delegitimize the ruling elite?

3 points
4
1
jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:33 pm

Not nearly enough at the moment. '

I prefer LaFuckup myself.

-3 points
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3
LeotisHarris's picture

January 10, 2023 at 06:14 pm

Makes me long for the days of:

Fat Mike
McMumbles
Mashed Potato Mike
Gravy Fart
McTubby

3 points
3
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brenner's picture

January 10, 2023 at 11:34 am

Honestly, it's better this team lost now than after getting to the playoffs purely for draft position. It sucks they had to lay an egg at home, but I don't blame Rodgers as much as a lot of people do for this loss. There were way too many drops on must have throws for first downs that the ball was where it needed to be and guys just didn't make the catch. The INT was a terrible throw but he had a ton of pressure and nowhere else to go with the ball. Taking the sack just would have made it 4th and forever.
As for the accountability issues, this whole problem started when Murphy put his pillars in place. I don't understand the purpose of having the GM and HC both report directly to Murphy when he should clearly be more focused on building another sledding hill than anything related to football operations. Murphy hired lafluer because he has no spine. That should have been guteys hire to make and wonder if things would've been different. ST and DC hires have been horrible, which is on lafluer. Mennenga was a terrible hire, and Drayton was worse. Same goes for Pettine then Barry, Although I had high hopes for Pettine when he was hired. On the offensive side, the red zone offense is unbearably bad and something has to be done immediately. Makes no sense that they can march down the field just to shit the bed inside the 20. Then we get the old McCarthy goal to go offense, 3 runs up the middle and kick a field goal. Only difference is now we do it from the shotgun for some idiotic reason. Watching other coaches from the same coaching tree, lafluer seems to be the least creative when it comes to play design and I don't think it's close. So much for being an offensive genius.

8 points
8
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Packerpasty's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:09 pm

The int was bad for sure..but the drops and fumbles and strange calls using Lazard on sweeps...and Dillon punching into the back of the O linemen instead of hitting a hole two feet to the left or right...Jones fumbling AGAIN in a huge game...no TE to speak of, Tonyan is slow as molasses now, hope he regains some of his speed..Doubs could have had a break out game instead he crapped the bed...

3 points
3
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Leatherhead's picture

January 10, 2023 at 01:53 pm

Everything you said is on target, but I think it's all fixable.

Lazard won't be here next year, and he'll need to be replaced, so you won't see him on sweeps anymore. I also don't think you'll see Jones anymore, primarily because of the $10 million in cap savings.

Tonyan, Lewis, et. al., can be replaced with a premium draft choice. And Doubs won't be a rookie next year, and it'll make a difference, IMO. He'll be more consistent next year.

Fix The Offense. Use the draft to load up the offense.

-1 points
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1
Duneslick's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:07 pm

OK As expected Greenbay won the lose lose scenario. They went on a win streak that moved them back in the draft and therefore did not give them a chance to see and evaluate Jordan Love at the end of the season. 20 million dollar decision which i expect them so sign him because if they dont they are admitting it was a mistake drafting him. They also managed to overpay Jenkins who is an above average lineman whos real value is versatility to a multi year guaranteed contract that makes him the highest paid guard in football. This is what has been done over and over again to get them in the salary cap mess they are in and what they do is keep pushing it to the future and it keep getting worse and worse. Bak and Rodgers are examples of this. I believe even in rodgers retires he still counts for 39 MILLION cap next year. Bak is also in 30 million range and he is now just an above average tackle now. Trade adams partially saved them from salary cap hell last year I dont know what they are going to do for the next 2 years. This doesnt work

4 points
5
1
Packers0808's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:51 pm

Bakh is just average HUH? He hasn't allowed a sack since 2018. Yup missed time due to injury but still in 3 years can you name another tackle who didn't allow a sack in that time period!?

1 points
2
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jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:38 pm

They can't afford both AR and Love without pushing a lot of cap into the future. Look for a journeyman or rookie backup QB next year.

0 points
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Packerpasty's picture

January 10, 2023 at 12:11 pm

MLF = Mike Sherman....and unless drastic actions are taken this off season, which I doubt will happen, Packers be at the bottom or close to it in the NFC...

4 points
4
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T7Steve's picture

January 10, 2023 at 01:22 pm

When he said he just wants continuity in the coaching what does that tell you? Even if you just won the Super Bowl you have to get better. If you don't get better what happens Rams? The other teams get better and have figured you out. That's =ing Mike Sherman.

3 points
3
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Dragon5's picture

January 10, 2023 at 01:36 pm

The Jones fumble...haven't seen anyone mention he failed to shift the ball to the sideline arm--RB coaching 101. If I recall, same mental miscue occurred on his TB fumble as well...so I guess 2 years have passed and it's still not corrected. No coaching, no accountability.

3 points
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Coldworld's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:33 pm

Repeating errors is kind of a LaFleur era calling card

0 points
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Leatherhead's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:55 pm

Jones has been the main engine of this offense all year, and it was damned unfortunate he fumbled. Both times. I remember Ahman Greene didn't shift the ball either but jeezus, you've got to hang onto the rock when your season is on the line. That's the most basic element of offense.

3 points
3
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Houndog's picture

January 10, 2023 at 01:44 pm

Thank you Matt LaFleur, for deciding to keep Joe Barry.
At least now we have something to look forward to, and that's you being fired!

4 points
4
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jurp's picture

January 10, 2023 at 04:41 pm

Fired in 2024 at the earliest. Sigh.

0 points
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Packers0808's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:47 pm

If LaFlower keeps Barry, LF was already suspect, keeping Barry makes all suspicion gone. He has about the poorest character for coach choices in the entire league!

3 points
3
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Packers0808's picture

January 10, 2023 at 02:47 pm

Deleted

1 points
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