Gut Reactions: Packers punch back against Dolphins

Aaron gives his gut reactions to the Packers Christmas win over the Miami Dolphins

  • That last INT where Douglas makes Tua think he's playing man then peels off and plays zone got me absolutely wrecked. What a play. 
  • Aaron Rodgers did not play well and the Packers won. That is notable if for no other reason that it has been an incredibly rare occurrence.
  • Did Aaron Jones insult Matt LaFleur's mother or something?
  • Love seeing big plays from Big Dog. 
  • Not getting a touchdown after that first Keisean Nixon return was an absolute gut punch. 
  • Jarran Reed played one hell of a game, including that pivotal forced fumble. 
  • Shout out to Royce Newman who did enough to survive after Yosh went down. 
  • Hated seeing Nixon and Watson on the sidelines. Hope they're ok. 
  • Preston Smith was a beast all day. 
  • Tough look from the entire secondary on that early Waddle TD. 
  • That said, the whole group rebounded nicely against a really talented WR corps. It wasn't pretty but they kept battling. 
  • Give me more De'Vondre Campbell big plays please. 
  • The Packers live to fight another day. Nothing better than late season games in Lambeau that mean something. 
  • Thanks to everyone who joined us on the watch party. 
  • Merry Christmas everyone!

 

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13 points
 

Comments (159)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:15 pm

Merry Christmas to all! Go Pack Go! Huge W today!

The Spirit of giving has prevailed for the Packers on Christmas mightily. The Packers have now collected 7 combined INTs on the Christmases of 2021 and 2022, 3 of which came from Rasul Douglas

11 points
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ddepula418's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:15 pm

Great game. I thought the defense would blow the game. I was wrong. Did not like the play calling in the red zone but a win is a win.

15 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:23 pm

Some very strange play designs.

7 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:48 pm

The fake punt was a terrible design I though. terrible call too.

5 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:13 pm

No kidding, jb. What the hell was that 4th down call where Rodgers took the snap and lunged forward for the first down? He didn't hand off the ball, or throw it. It was as if he propelled his body forward by himself to get that needed yardage. WTF?

3 points
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MainePackFan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:17 pm

I really hated the fake punt. I appreciate being aggressive but that was downright stupid.

2 points
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ddepula418's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:17 pm

Packers won despite MLF!

17 points
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Coldworld's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:30 pm

To be honest, that’s been a constant during his tenure.

6 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:46 pm

FTFY

Packers won despite Joe "Dingle Barry...

4 points
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GaryC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:59 pm

Totally agree, that’s where I am. Great win in the end. Merry Christmas to everyone.

2 points
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MainePackFan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:20 pm

I disagree. MLF made some gutsy decisions in a do or die game. More worked than didn't. If AR was on his game today, it would have been a blowout.

1 points
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The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:42 pm

24/38 for 238 yds, 1 td, and 1 int is "on his game"? Were living in the twilight zone.

-1 points
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LLCHESTY's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:03 pm

Reading is fundamental.

2 points
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cpabandit's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:13 pm

Packers won despite Aaron Rodgers.

0 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:17 pm

Mike Pereira says every time the Dolphins lose, an angel gets his wings.

Even though the gifts weren’t wrapped, they were perfect. Thanks, Tua.

It’s been a great day, and I’ll take the W and the good feelings that accompanies it.

I like the momentum heading into the game against the Minnesota NFL franchise.

Merry Christmas!

13 points
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Starrbrite's picture

December 26, 2022 at 12:38 am

That was outstanding Leotis-haha!

1 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:18 pm

Wow. What a turnaround by these Packers.

4 weeks ago, these Packers just allowed 500 yards to the Eagles. Rodgers threw 2 picks, and the whole team looked dejected.

Fast forward to Christmas, and the Packers are playing the best football of their season. Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs look like an excellent WR pairing. AJ Dillon has turned his season around and is his old wrecking ball self, and Jones is playing great as he always does.

The front 7 is where the biggest turnaround really has come. Kenny Clark is his old dominant self, Devonte Wyatt and Jarran Reed are emerging as wreckers up front and T.J. Slaton is a great run stuffer. Preston Smith has continued his momentum and looks like an absolute beast. Smith is playing the best football of his career, and Enagbare looks like a player. Walker has flashed incredible play-wrecking potential, and Campbell still has some juice left in him. Alexander came up clutch when it mattered, and the streaky Douglas had a good day today. Amos racked up a lot of tackles, but looks like a shell of himself. Ford is also hot-and-cold.

The Special Teams have turn around greatly as well. Keisean Nixon is an absolute beast, and Tariq Carpenter had some great tackles. Bissacia has done a great job.

13 points
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Coldworld's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:33 pm

I think only the injury to Lowry got Slaton and particularly Wyatt most of the the opportunities they got. I think that was a big factor in our D’s performance in the second half.

15 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:37 pm

Well, maybe Barry will listen for once! He seemed to finally adapt in the 2nd half, perhaps making a vain effort to save his job.

2 points
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canadapacker's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:42 pm

No he didnt - all and I mean all of those INT's were the result of us playing the SAME scheme and Tua overshooting his receivers. All of those INT's

7 points
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stockholder's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:09 pm

I liked Reeds fumble recovery. What a turn around.

8 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

December 25, 2022 at 08:13 pm

Key play, changed momentum. Gives the defense some swagger.

3 points
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Leatherhead's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:17 pm

Well, coming into this game, the Packers were an average defense, and they're still an average defense, and they had a good half of football.

You can fire him. Whether or not you get an improvement is debatable. Is an average defense good enough to win with? Yes. Ask Minnesota or KC.

0 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:09 pm

Is Average what we should strive for? No. Great is. Look at each of the past 11 Super Bowl champs (excluding the 2019 Chiefs). All of them had a great Defense

1 points
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brettnivinski's picture

December 26, 2022 at 07:24 am

Accurate assessment. The turnaround on defense begins with the play and emergence of Wyatt. He's graded well beginning with bears game on limited snaps. Thrown in after Lowry went down, the defense turned around. Better motor. Slaton helped stuff run. Yeah . The whole energy level changed.

I agree about Amos. The deep ball to Hill should have been broken up. He's lost a step. Personally, I'd like to see Abernathy get an opportunity but it ain't going to happen short of divine intervention so I'll stop writing about it and simply pray for safety.

One gets a sense that the pieces on offense are there (except for Dalton Kincaid), but they haven't quite meshed yet. Disjointed play calling and lack of rhythm and tempo.

Doesn't appear as if they have an idea of who they are and how they want to attack. No identity. Sometimes it feels like they are playing sandlot football with no game plan.

But I did think that it was really important that Rodgers used his legs for the first time in eons. And the ball did seem to get spread around more. Dillon's play and return to form begins withe eagles game and he remains key to offense. His punishing play sets the table. His drive.

Not quite there yet, but, like an unfinished piece of art, you can see it start to come together.

1 points
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Swisch's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:19 pm

Kudos to Rodgers for seeming to play a much more savvy game in the second half than the first half.
***
What a pleasant surprise of a Christmas present for the Packers to win, and to come from behind in doing so.

5 points
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Swisch's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:53 pm

Am I wrong in thinking Rodgers was savvier in the second half?

-1 points
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canadapacker's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:36 pm

He had his moments - Lafleur has some issues - he had all offseason to figure out the redzone offense - he definitely has no imagination or committment to anything in the redzone - get 5 yards of first and goal and then calls a pass and AR gets sacked? And you have Dillon.
I sure hope that Caleb Jones develops this offseason because we need him especially if Lewis retires.
Now on this game the Oline kind of regressed = how many times can Dillon get hit in the backfield on 3rd and one????
A guy like Dillon needs to always make one yard - and if they cram the box and I mean really cram the box then somebody outside should have an easy TD on a short pass.

4 points
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barutanseijin's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:43 pm

He wasn’t quite as stupid, yes. But the defense won the game by shutting out the Fins in the second half. They won despite Rodgers.

1 points
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cpabandit's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:16 pm

Absolutely! DESPITE Rodgers.

4 points
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crayzpackfan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:04 pm

They won in spite of Rodgers and MLF. Great victory nonetheless

3 points
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cpabandit's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:20 pm

Kudos to Rodgers? Are you kidding me? Kudos? He gets paid $1.5 million a game (next year $4 million a game) and he should get kudos for what he did today? I'll throw the ball over a receivers head by ten yards for a million bucks. I'll hold the ball way too long and get sacked for a million bucks. I'll throw it 3 yards when it's 3rd and twelve for a million bucks. Heck, I'd even consider a half a million.

1 points
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jhtobias's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:21 pm

Merry Christmas to everyone .

Does this mean they are keeping Joe Berry ? That would ruin my holiday

11 points
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stockholder's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:47 pm

No it means Dillion needs dancing lessons.

2 points
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Starrbrite's picture

December 26, 2022 at 12:45 am

I read a a comment that made me laugh: “I saw LaFleur on the sideline hugging Joe Barry and I became very nervous”—lol—me too.
Go Packers!
Happy Christmas!!

5 points
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dobber's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:22 pm

Somehow this Packers team managed to not get run off the field in the first half, and with lousy red-zone conversion rate still managed to win. We could argue that Miami should've been up 20 points at half, but the Packers left so many points on the field--and STILL won.

Minnesota would love to quash the Packers' playoff hopes next week, but they profile in much the same way Miami does. Won't be cold at Lambeau (early forecast is about 40) but hopefully the Packers can give 'em a big ole s#!tburger to eat.

Great Christmas gift! Enjoyed the game day chat, everyone...that's part of what the holiday is all about.

14 points
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Oppy's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:43 pm

I have always said that the Minnesota Vikings are perennial bed-shitters.

However, the Vikings are far superior to the Packers in 2022.
I suspect the Packers get firmly trounced by the Vikings.

-1 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:06 pm

Luckier, yes. Superior, not necessarily...

3 points
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EnemyTerritory's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:38 pm

Some years everything just breaks right for a team. That’s 2022 for the Vikings. Worse yet they expect it to happen and play for every opportunity. Better coached too.

3 points
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GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:22 pm

Not sure why so many people seemed to think the Dolphins were heavy favorites. It was two middle-of-the-road teams going head-to-head. A tossup. Credit to our defense for shutting them out in the second half and catching every ball that was thrown right to them.

A couple of random notes:

1. Has anyone here ever seen a worse fake punt attempt than the one the Packers ran?
2. What was up with Pam Oliver? My guess is that she was heavily sedated by some kind of medication.

10 points
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Oppy's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:47 pm

Pam Oliver has been subject to chronic, debilitating migraine headaches for the last several years, maybe getting close to a decade now.

When you hear her sounding like she did tonight, it's because she's fighting through a cluster of migraines and the medications that combat the pain are heavy and affect her speech.

To be honest, it's both miraculous and brave she is still able to perform her duties at all.

12 points
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GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:48 pm

I had no idea. Thanks for the explanation.

4 points
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Oppy's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:09 pm

I just re-researched her migraines, since it's been years since I first found out about it. Some things I got wrong:

-She's suffered migraines her entire life, not just the last decade. Apparently, at their worst, she used to suffer 6 or more serious episodes a month. She's down to about 3 per month now.

-It's not the medication that impairs her speech. She apparently doesn't rely on pain meds during the migraines if she's on the job because they put her out; it's the intense pain, light sensitivity, nausea etc of the migraine itself that causes her to struggle with speech. She's literally fighting through the migraine to do her job.

Not sure how old this article is, maybe a few years ago? Anyways, here's the link

https://awfulannouncing.com/podcasts/pam-oliver-migraines-nfl-sideline-r...

4 points
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Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 07:55 am

although it is kinda creepy-stalkerish that he knows that much about Pams personal situation...

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:28 am

She’s over 60. She’s a TV pioneer…… once upon a time, some genius said “why don’t we put a good looking gal on the sidelines to get interviews?”, and her career was born. She was a real peach in her day, and still looks pretty good in her sixties.

0 points
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Oppy's picture

December 26, 2022 at 11:15 am

lol. It's because she went AWOL from the sidelines a few years ago, and the first time I saw her back on the sidelines and she did her interview, she sounded much the same as she did during the Packers-Dolphins game.

My first thoughts were, is Pam Drunk? Did Pam have a stroke that she's worked her way back from? So I did what curious people do, I looked it up.

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 07:49 pm

Im gonna remember that story when I get caught with a telescope out on my deck on a cloudy evening...

0 points
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Cwilly's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:23 pm

I hope Lowry is out the rest of the year. The dline with Reed and Wyatt was much more effective. And defense seemed to change with them in the game.

15 points
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packerbackerjim's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:23 pm

I was perplexed the D didn’t cover the middle in the first half, had success in the second half when they did. I hope Nxon and Watson heal quickly, going to need them against the vikes.

9 points
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Lphill's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:23 pm

Wyatt was the difference maker on defense , Lowery getting hurt got him on the field , hey Joe Barry amazing how 3 down lineman can be effective.

14 points
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Coldworld's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:35 pm

Now If LaFleur would learn from that and use Doubs and even Toure more aggressively then we might not stall as much on O and show up Ds more.

9 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:23 pm

The three wise men: Alexander, Campbell and Douglas?

4 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:50 pm

Sure as hell isn't Mark Murphy, MaLF, and Dinglebarry...

8 points
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bjkdad44's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:45 pm

That is a big feeeeerrrr suuuuurrrreee!

0 points
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Charvid's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:24 pm

The real Christmas gift was that after averaging about 14 yards per carry on his first 4 runs, the Dolphins didn’t keep feeding Mostert. Why the hell would you not keep running on GB’s defense??
It’s a Christmas Miracle.

16 points
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GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:27 pm

Maybe the Packers defense was loading up on the run, because when the Dolphins DID run the ball in the second half, they weren't nearly as effective. Plus it's not like the Dolphins' passing game wasn't effective in the first half. It looked like they could do anything they wanted to on offense for awhile there.

9 points
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Coldworld's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:37 pm

Wyatt and Slaton made a difference once Lowry was out.

7 points
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NickPerry's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:45 pm

Exactly... I NEVER want to see a player get injured but maybe if Lowry is injured let him heal, be EXTRA cautious with him, and LET WYATT PLAY...

#FreeWyatt!!!!

5 points
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GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:42 pm

So maybe the coaching staff has blundered its way into another improvement.

4 points
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baldski's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:23 pm

Now, if this is apparent to you and to me, Wyatt and Slaton should be playing in the front line, why is it not apparent to Joe Barry????

6 points
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Bure9620's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:37 pm

I have no explanation why Wyatt is not getting more snaps....

1 points
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BradHTX's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:25 pm

Woo-wooooooo! The Packers hype train is leaving the station. All abooooooooard!

Punch my ticket, Mr. Conductor. My seat’s in First Class!

0 points
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Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 07:57 am

get back in coach where you belong!

0 points
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BradHTX's picture

December 26, 2022 at 08:28 am

I’m not coach material. But I could probably outperform some guys at DC…

And WTF, people? Who the hell downvotes a comment expressing excitement about the Packers gaining momentum approaching the playoffs? What kind of morons/Vikings fans (sorry to be redundant) are y’all?

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:20 am

good one Brad!

check out the big brain on Brad!... in my best Jules voice...

2 points
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BradHTX's picture

December 26, 2022 at 10:01 am

*tips hat* And a merry Christmas to you and yours, Mr. Blood. I’m smart enough to know I don’t have a lot to offer in terms of football analysis (a quality which doesn’t stop plenty of others) but I’m occasionally good for a clever zinger.

2 points
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Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 07:45 pm

only on CHTV would a Pulp Fiction zing get a down vote.

Haters gonna Hate.

1 points
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Packers0808's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:25 pm

Beginning to wonder just how fixed the league is to make drama?

-4 points
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Packer_Fan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:26 pm

Great win.
Defense finally created some turnovers. Some tough going in the first half, but they closed things down. Think they got into Toavailoa's head in the second half. He was erratic and inaccurate.
Yes Rodgers didn't play so well, but did just enough to win.
The offense is doing well. Could do better in red zone. They could have run more in the red zone.

12 points
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ricky's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:29 pm

The way this season is going, it reminds me of 2010. I've always banged the drum of "get hot at the right time,", and it seems the Packers are doing just that. It seems that Joe Barry is aware of how much his coaching style is hated, and is trying to save his job, as the defense seems to be able to make adjustments, and come through when necessary. Good. But as far as I'm concerned, even if the Packers win the SB, Barry needs to be shown the door at the end of the season. And even if Rodgers were to win another SB MVP, time to move on from him if at all possible, and get out from under that onerous contract. And to one and all, a Merry Christmas and a happier and more prosperous New Year.

8 points
10
2
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:35 pm

I agree with all of what you say, Ricky

2 points
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Swisch's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:46 pm

If the Packers would go so far as to win a Super Bowl, and the defense is solid, I'd give Barry another year.
Also, I'd like to see Rodgers go out on top with the Packers, hopefully by playing with the savvy he showed in the second half compared to the dreaded hero ball of the first half.
With Rodgers again desirable in a trade if the Packers win it all, then indeed trade him.
Happiness all around!
It would be a scenario almost too good to be true, but 2010 was a precedent to show the way -- even as far as beating the Eagles in that playoff run.
***
If anyone is up for it, it would be interesting to compare Rodgers' first-half stats against the Dolphins today with his second-half stats.
In any case, the big thing is that the score in the second half was in favor of the Packers 13-0.
Rodgers and the offense ate up the clock, and the defense came through.

4 points
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3
stockholder's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:30 pm

Never Tank! Merry Christmas.

3 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:34 pm

I never advocated for such.

5 points
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Since'61's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:34 pm

Great, great win! Kudos to the entire team. The defense played an excellent 2nd half. Their 3 picks carried the day. The offense with 16 unanswered points.
We won without Watson, Nijman, Nixon and a few other injuries in the second half.

A much needed road win. Final 2 games at home and we still have a shot. Bring on the Vikes and Go Pack go! Thanks, Since '61

12 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:34 pm

I hope Nijman, Nixon, and Watson are okay! We need them all

7 points
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Coldworld's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:40 pm

If Bakh is back, Tom would supplant Newman. Newman did actually improve as the game went on, to be fair.

4 points
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canadapacker's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:40 pm

After the first half – almost the first half – I was thinking – just blow us out and get on with showing us what Love has to do with it. Then Miami fumbles and we get a field goal and then come out and tie the game = game on. But I still figure that we are going to lose – and then Tua starts to remember that we are wearing black and his teams are in their whites. So while we were criticizing our DC for laying back and letting them complete passes in front of us – he had inside information that Tua throws the ball over their receivers heads and into our arms. PS I thought that Lafleur is an offensive genius = well 2 years in a row with the worst red zone efficiency = WHAT???

7 points
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NickPerry's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:40 pm

Merry Christmas to all my fellow Cheeseheads here at CHTV!

Hey, you have to give it to the Packers. They looked like they were going to get run off the field after that Waddle TD and they regrouped. I'm not ready to give Barry too much credit, the Players actually played WAY better. Especially in the 2nd half.

The Miami HC did his best MLF impression. They were running the ball really well and got away from it after the Mostert fumble.

WTF was that by Alexander on the Waddle TD?

MORE Davonte Wyatt please. MUCH more!

I love me some Christian Watson but I'm thinking the Packers might need to be thinking WR in the 2nd round again. Lazard will be gone (doubtful they can afford him) and unfortunately Watson looks like a player who is easily injured. Hope I'm wrong but DAMN....

BIG DOG BABY!!!!!

12 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:42 pm

Alexander made up for it with the INT. The fake punt was more stupid.

MORE WYATT AND REED AND SLATON YESSSSS

There are some good 2nd and 3rd round prospects in 2023 for WR. We should be able to snag one of them.

4 points
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Leatherhead's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:29 pm

"There are some good 2nd and 3rd round prospects in 2023 for WR. We should be able to snag one of them."

Watson, Doubs, and Toure are all under contract for this year. Even if Lazard doesn't return, or Cobb, we're still looking at guys who are going to be #4, #5, #6 in the rotation. Of course, guys do get hurt, but I'd suspect that they might look for another Day 3 steal, like Doubs. Or depending on the compensation for losing Jones and Bakhtiari and Rodgers, we might have some extra Day Two picks we could use trying to find another Watson.

It is my opinion that the chief failing of the Packers this year has been an offense that simply does not score enough points on a consistent basis, and that's why it ranks in the lower half of the league, and that our goal for the offseason is to put together the best 21 man group to dress out for the offense....2 QBs, 9 OL, 10 Skill Position guys.

5 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:08 pm

I think the failing of the offense has been the inconsistency of Aaron Rodgers, the offensive line, and AJ Dillon (and injuries to WRs in the beginning of the season). The narrative that Adams' absence is causing all of the struggles is complete nonsense. This team, when playing well, has the potential to hang with the best of teams

2 points
3
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Leatherhead's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:56 pm

When you say the failing of the offense is the inconsistency of rodgers, the line, and Dillon, isn't that pretty much saying the entire offense except Jones?

IMO, we don't establish anything that we can do. We can't overpower you, we can't run around you, or throw it over you. We don't force the defense to adapt to us.

For example, if we line up 3 WRs, then it almost forces the defense to counter with 5 DBs, leaving 6 run defenders against 6 blockers, including the TE. But we don't establish that. Teams don't stop us from anything....we just go away from it to see if something else works. Today, for example, Miami rarely stopped our run. We could have lined up 40 times and handed it off and we'd have probably still scored 26 points.

But, no, we have to project the illusion of complexity, or something like that, and throw it when common sense tells you to hand it off.

The offense today wasn't anything special, and the defense was, as usual, average. But sometimes, par is good enough to win.

5 points
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LLCHESTY's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:16 pm

"Watson, Doubs, and Toure are all under contract for this year. Even if Lazard doesn't return, or Cobb, we're still looking at guys who are going to be #4, #5, #6 in the rotation."

So you learned nothing from this season. They could easily find a rookie WR that could end up WR3. They found two this year.

0 points
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Leatherhead's picture

December 26, 2022 at 08:45 am

If Lazard returns, our top 4 WRs are set. I’m all for strengthening the offense this offseason, but I’m thinking linemen, TEs, a replacement for Jones are all more important than a guy who won’t play much unless the guys in front of him are hurt or playing poorly. Just because we draft a guy who looks good in shorts , he’s not going to vault ahead of Doubs and the rest. We can get a UDFA, practice squad, Day 3 project. No need to spend a premium pick on this position..

0 points
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LLCHESTY's picture

December 26, 2022 at 04:44 pm

You said the same about the WR group last summer. Doubs is 2nd in catches and 3rd in yards and TDs despite missing 4 games. Seems weird that you now doubt a rookie could come in and be a main contributor for them.

I wouldn't be surprised if Lazard walks after the season.

0 points
0
0
jannes bjornson's picture

December 25, 2022 at 08:32 pm

Two WRs, minimum and draft 2-3 TEs, along with a RB. The red zone issues require more talent. Watson still needs to work on his steps, flopping on the third and goal.

0 points
1
1
Leatherhead's picture

December 26, 2022 at 08:38 am

Yes. Weapons. Let’s not waste any picks on blockers.

0 points
0
0
Bearmeat's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:45 pm

I'll echo Nags' statement: 12 made 3 great throws and otherwise sucked ass. And the team still won. Unreal.

Hope the magic gives us 3 more wins. Sending Minny home in WC weekend is the ceiling for this very flawed team and its very flawed QB.

2 points
7.5
5.5
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:09 pm

I disagree. I think that when this team is firing on all cylinders, they can hang with the best of teams. However, inconsistency has been their biggest vice.

3 points
4
1
edp1959's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:21 pm

HaHaHa!!! Got some RDS I see…

-1 points
0
1
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:45 pm

That fake punt was one of the worst calls I've seen from the Packers ever. What a pea-brained move. And even if you are going to do so, snap it to a punt protector and run outside zone of 4th and 2, don't try to go up the middle with a 190 lb Safety!!

As a Huskers fan, it reminds me of the Northwestern game when we decided to onside kick when we were up 28-17. We lost 28-31, and that kick was the momentum changer.

7 points
7
0
GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:52 pm

I don't know how they failed to call off the fake when the other team was stacked in the middle of the field.

5 points
5
0
pantz_bURp's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:47 pm

What I loved, it looked like Lizard blocked:not 1, not 2...but 3 Dolphins with essentially one block.

To steal one from the show Lizard Lick Towing...those 3 on D just got licked (by a Lizard :)

Made me smile

7 points
8
1
splitpea1's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:52 pm

What a pleasant Christmas surprise. Lots of big plays with some poor judgement sprinkled in on the Packers part in regards to play selection and special teams. Give the team credit for fighting back, though.

Barry's zone does work sometimes--still not a fan of it.

Why didn't the Dolphins try to run more? MLF often gets criticized for his lack of halftime adjustments, but I thought this was a blunder on their part.

Dillon: Other than an occasional hop or skip, he should never be going parallel to the LOS.

Watson: He's a big bonus when he's in there, but durability is always going to be a concern. The Packers need a backup plan (a speedy one) come draft time; plenty of potential WR turnover.

Is Moose Johnston a fashion model for Christmas sweaters? I really liked the Tartan one.

In summary, this was a rewarding road win, but remember the Dolphins are a finesse team who the Packers are better equipped to handle versus the more physical teams.

11 points
11
0
Oppy's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:52 pm

4th down decisions have been questionable all year, but tonight they were absolutely atrocious. So many poor decisions.

8 points
9
1
GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:12 pm

They completed 3 out of 4, not counting that unsuccessful fake punt, so they could not have been that bad. I remember the failed one well, though: Rodgers chucked it deep again.

2 points
2
0
Oppy's picture

December 25, 2022 at 11:54 pm

The results of a play don't necessarily justify the decision to call it.

There are plenty of good play calls that fail, and poor ones that succeed.

2 points
2
0
NickPerry's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:54 pm

Key stat... The Dolphins has the ball for only about 11 minutes the entire 2nd half give or take a few seconds. They ran 20 less plays but averaged almost twice as many YPP.. Packers averaged 4.6 YPP and the Dolphins 8.4.

Take away the Waddle TD and the long reception by Hill and the Packers Defense held the Dolphins to 238 yards for the other 43 plays they had the ball.

Hmmm...Interesting

8 points
8
0
Swisch's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:00 pm

It would be interesting for more knowledgeable fans to share whether Barry made any adjustments in the second half that helped account for shutting out the Dolphins.

3 points
4
1
Lphill's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:20 pm

The adjustment was called Davonte Wyatt .

5 points
5
0
Swisch's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:00 pm

It would be interesting for more knowledgeable fans to share whether Barry made any adjustments in the second half that helped account for shutting out the Dolphins.

1 points
2
1
Leatherhead's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:08 pm

That is an interesting tidbit, Nick. It's almost like the best defense is the one that is on the sideline the most.

Four turnovers--really 5, because a missed FG is a turnover. Statistically, you lose about 90% of games where you turn it over 4 times. The Packer offense protected the ball and scored a couple of points over the league average, and we win a game on the road against a winning team.

Defensively, some big plays have skewed the perception of the defense, but the bottom line is always points.

6 points
6
0
vin0770's picture

December 25, 2022 at 03:56 pm

You can see Watson is such a field tilter when he’s on the field and there in lies the question….he seems like “glass” right now 😢

0 points
3
3
LeotisHarris's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:25 pm

I was impressed with the Dolphins DBs tackling; solid hits all day. Watson took a hard legal shot. Maybe in a scenario with more on the line he plays through that? I worry more about his concussions.

6 points
6
0
dobber's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:22 pm

Watson has taken quite a few hard hits on his limited snaps.

3 points
3
0
Leatherhead's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:03 pm

A very nice Christmas present indeed. It wasn't always pretty, but we won a game on the road against a winning team , and that doesn't happen that often. Again, under the category of NOT OFTEN, you have a 93 yard kick return resulting in 3 points , and a second half shutout by the defense.

Everybody knew this was a "must-win" game, to even have a hope, and when we came out in the 3rd quarter and went for it....with a QB sneak.....I just got the feeling that this was it, and they all knew it. Everything you'd been working for since February is done, a bunch won't be back, and you're going to spend the next 9 months living with it. I'm not going to use the word "desperate" but it's not far off, and we played like we didn't want our season to end yet. I thought it showed.....grit.

There was some of the usual hysteria about the defense in the first half. As usual, they gave up a couple of big plays, and that's a weakness. But if you just charted the plays as + or - , the Packers were winning a fair share of the plays. And like they frequently do, they tightened up as the game went on and surrendered a very respectable 20. Once Again, I'd like to point out that half of Miami's opponents have held them to 21 or less, and so we're about AVERAGE, once again. We had some good plays on defense and some bad ones. In the end, we were in the AVERAGE range. It would have been easy to look at this defense in the first half and draw a premature conclusion that they are not average, but they're called averages for a reason, and the second half showed us that.

Big challenge next week. An opportunity, at home to bitch-slap the Vikings. You know, the Vikings have won a record 11 games by one score. They also won one other game, by more than one score. The opener. This is an opportunity to rectify that and set up the clash with the Lions.

But first we have to beat the Vikings. Business before pleasure.

9 points
9
0
Gman1976's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:09 pm

Quite an amazing win despite not playing with our 2 starting OTs and an offense that was terrible converting 3rd downs and red zone TDs, and not having our star WR. OK, I'll do it: Give credit to DC Barry for 2nd half defense. I have wanted him gone, but he is proving me wrong. Congrats Coach. Please Coach Barry prove me wrong the next 2 weeks and all the way to the Superbowl win!

2 points
5
3
DragonSilk's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:16 pm

Been waiting for The Packers to turn the corner and they get a win without turning it.
Rodgers looked like a rookie out there taking a sack instead of just throwing it away.
Our DB's were out matched by their receivers, even #23. Good thing Tua was down with the giving season.
Anyway 2 games against the North at Lambeau for a chance to go to the dance. What more could you ask for.

6 points
6
0
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:14 pm

23 was on and off through the game. Same with 29. This was definitely, not one of Rodgers' best games, but the OL should take partial blame. They have to give him more time. Rodgers had some bad decisions, though.

Parts of this team turned a corner. I think the DL/OLBs were great today, and the DBs made (or capitalized on) some plays when it counted. Now I want to see more consistency from the secondary, Quay, Campbell, Rodgers, and the OL.

2 points
3
1
croatpackfan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 04:58 pm

It is joyfull Christmas day among Packers Nation. Thanks to the team that won vs all predictions.

This time Hope didn't cheat us. Thanks to Hope.

Enjoy in Christmas, Packers fans. We deserve it. Leave the analysis for some other time.

Marry Christmas!

4 points
4
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:21 pm

Packers should send Tua a really nice Christmas present cause he gifted them this game with a nice bow on it. Heres the Packers offensive breakdown: 38 passes for 238 yards while only running 17 times with the rbs. Their offense is horrendous and they adamently refuse to run the ball yet again. This team has no business making the playoffs. The fact theyre even in the conversation speaks to just how terrible of a product the NFL as a whole has put forth this season.

5 points
7
2
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:24 pm

I agree with your take, but try to enjoy the win. At this point, at 7-8, is draft position a real concern anymore? I'm not saying it is bad to be concerned with draft position, but we already have 7 wins.

Inexcusable the way they neglect Aaron Jones though.

5 points
5
0
croatpackfan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:27 pm

As I heard announcers that they clainmed Aaron jones has bad ankle, it became obvious why he was spared so much in this game.

1 points
1
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:37 pm

Rodgers told the announcers that due to the Dolphins tendency to blitz so much that he was actually gonna geyt to play quarterback today. The decision to abandon the run game was made well before the game started and had nothing to do with Jones' ankle. Its ironic because he said something before the Giants game about putting on a show and proceeded to abandon the run and throw the game away. This is the shit when Lafleur needs to be the adult in the room but absolutely refuses to. Fire everyone is my new stance. Packers are borderline unwatchable at this point.

0 points
5
5
GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:16 pm

Um, they won the game. Or maybe you're joking?

2 points
3
1
Since'61's picture

December 25, 2022 at 10:45 pm

Simple fix. Don't watch the games. Thanks, Since '61

-1 points
1
2
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:28 pm

Im not concerned about draft position. Im concerned the decision makers will confuse this mediocrity for progress and try running it back yet again hoping for a better season while also sacrificing more future capspace just to make that mediocrity happen.

8 points
10
2
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:06 pm

I don't think Gutekunst will let that happen. He seems like a level-headed, rational guy to me. If I am correct, he has to be involved in the major decisions.

1 points
2
1
NickPerry's picture

December 26, 2022 at 05:53 am

Problem is that Murphy is the one that has the last word, or so it seems. I don't believe for one second Brian Gutekunst was in favor of that Titanic contract the Packers gave Rodgers.

Lets hope Gute does have FINAL say of ALL decisions going forward.

1 points
1
0
NickPerry's picture

December 26, 2022 at 06:00 am

Totally get what you're saying RTS. Running it back would be the absolutely worst thing this front office should do IMO.

BUT, will Murphy get in the way once more?

2 points
2
0
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:22 pm

Going forward, though, we NEED TO USE AARON JONES MORE!

We now go from facing the #10 run defense (Fins) to the #27 run defense (Minny). Feed Jones and Dillon in this game! Also, maybe Watson can get his revenge for the week 1 incident. Defense needs to continue making plays, and hopefully a revitalized D line and rejuvinated Preston Smith can capitalize on an inconsistent Minny O-line. Jaire will need to have a great game against Jefferson, and Campbell and Walker will need to contain Hockenson.

I feel like it is within reach for us to win, but we can't make careless mistakes and leave un-capitalized opportunities like we did in Miami. Minnesota is a team that will beat us up for that, evidenced by them being 11-0 in 1-score games. We need to be on our A-game, which I think the Packers can do. Go Pack Go!

1 points
3
2
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:25 pm

Its the same story week after week. Im done hoping for change. Rodgers has to go and so does every coach and front office person who capitulated to him. This isnt an NFL caliber offense. Its sandlot football. $50 million per year to draw up plays in the dirt that never work. Smfh.

7 points
8
1
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:50 pm

I know. I agree that Barry, Rodgers, and a handful of other veterans should be moved on from in the offseason. However, why not try to maximize what we have in this season? I was hoping we could get a good draft pick, but I think it is more likely we make the playoffs at 7-8 than land a great selection.

0 points
3
3
EnemyTerritory's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:09 pm

Not certain that Alexander will follow Jefferson. That’s not the Barry playbook

5 points
5
0
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:49 pm

Maybe the bone-headed Barry will learn from the past. It still won't save his job, though

2 points
2
0
Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:01 am

from what I have seen from alexander this year, he simply is NOT up to the task of following Jefferson around on every play.

don't get your hopes up to far, it is a long way down to where Alexander has been playing this year.

All-Pro talker, average performer... with a fat, fat contract from GB.

1 points
1
0
PackyCheese500's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:47 am

In my opinion he has transitioned more from an elite lockdown corner (like in 2020) to a big-play specialist, like Trevon Diggs.

1 points
1
0
croatpackfan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:24 pm

That TD by Mercedes Lewis was 3rd made by same type of play he scored in past few years. This is play call from Mike McCrathy time. I know that most of you remember Richard Rodgers II, slow Packers TE, who scored only 2 TD for Packers during his Packers tenure. Second was Miracle in Motown.

Richard Rodgers' first NFL touchdown came in the second quarter of the Packers' November 23, 2014 matchup versus the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. After rolling out far to his right, ACR completed a 1-yard touchdown pass across the width of the field to Richard Rodgers, who had completely avoided defensive coverage and was left standing alone in the corner of the endzone. You can watch it at 2nd Q of the game started at 5:30 left before the end of the half.

1 points
2
1
LeotisHarris's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:10 pm

It may seem like RR only caught two TDs, Croat, but he scored 13 TDs in his four seasons in Green Bay. He had a pretty good year in 2015; 58 catches for 510 yards and eight TDs. But, you're right, he wasn't fast and a strong wind could knock him down after a catch.

6 points
6
0
Coldworld's picture

December 25, 2022 at 08:16 pm

He had really good hands.

2 points
2
0
croatpackfan's picture

December 26, 2022 at 12:43 am

It was his 1st season with Packers. I forgot to put that on post. My bad. You are right!

0 points
0
0
Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:02 am

a well placed fart could bring him down...

1 points
1
0
BirdDogUni's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:09 am

Timed with a sundial was actually true with him... SMH

0 points
0
0
NickPerry's picture

December 26, 2022 at 06:14 am

Hey Croat, Merry Christmas...I get your point, that is an old MM play but it's used throughout the league many times a weekend. Matter of fact didn't the Packers covert a 2 Pt. conversion recently with the same play call to The Big Dog?

Richard Rodgers scored 15 TD's while with the Packers. He scored 8 in 2015 alone when the Packers were without any healthy WRs for parts of the season including the playoffs.

PS...Personally I love it when Big Dog is involved. When he makes a play the WHOLE team gets jacked up.

1 points
1
0
croatpackfan's picture

December 26, 2022 at 11:14 am

Yes, I mention that Big Dog scored 2 similar TD and one 2 point conversion for Packers on the same play (I wrote 3 TD, but mention 3 catches in the end zone!). ! TD was last season and one 2 point conversion and the TD were this season.

0 points
0
0
NickPerry's picture

December 27, 2022 at 04:54 am

My bad...thanks Croat.

1 points
1
0
Spawny's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:29 pm

Aaron Nagler,
Are you still angry that Rodgers refused to recognize you? The second half was a remarkable display of a quarterback managing the clock and time of possession. Rodgers didnt play well? You didnt watch the game.

-10 points
1
11
croatpackfan's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:32 pm

ACR had 3 good throws. Lazard, Lewis and Lewis (TD). His last throw to Watson was quite behind and produce injury of CW.

6 points
6
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:15 pm

38 passes for 238 yds, 1 td, and 1 int is not remarkable. Its mediocre at best. Those are Mitch Trubisky numbers. Tua gave the Packers this game. End of story.

4 points
4
0
Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:09 am

...and this in absolutely perfect football weather on a very good natural grass field.

this is the absolute best we can expect from AR at this stage of his career. Everyone can see it except for AR (bravado and performance over-confidence) and MLF ( game plans for MVP QB play instead of game management for HIS offensive system) just keep expecting 'that olde tyme magic' to happen. THAT's why it is time for Love to get some serious PT, this would force MLF to coach to his strength.

Father time is undefeated and one more victim has fallen. Even Bart stayed too long and fell victim to the ravages of father time (and way too many injuries)

0 points
0
0
pacman's picture

December 25, 2022 at 05:31 pm

Always feels good to get a win but let's face it, there are plenty of problems with this team - mostly coaching and AR this year. So unless we get to the SB, this ends up being a big tease and a worse draft pick and no chance to see Love play.

Like I said, a win feels great but my brain says....
How Tua can go from carving the Packers up to throwing 3 easy picks is beyond me. Makes one believe in Vegas fixers. This is what it takes for us to beat a good offensive team. So getting into the playoffs will get us what?
Packer's red zone offense just stunningly inefficient. How could AR not throw that ball away?
I wanted MLF to bench AR after that 4 and 2 hero ball! I have never been on the AR ego problem bandwagon, but I am this year. Yes, he made some great throws but it certainly seems that he only wants to win if he's the hero. They can't win this way without the other team self destructing.
Lazard is not a #1 but that clip of him counting the 3 Fins down should go viral. I'm not even sure he's a #2, but I like him.
Just not sure what to make of fake punt at that position. MLF going for broke? Is that the best idea he has to pull out a win?

It's going to feel worse if Vikes knock us out. So, if we've gotten this far, we might as well do it.

7 points
7
0
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:52 pm

I know. I feel exactly the same way, but since a premium draft pick is likely out of reach at 7-8, we need to carry the G for the rest of this season! Keep the hopes up!

Also, if we got into the playfoffs as the #7 seed, facing the Vikings would be just about as great a matchup as a #7 seed can get.

2 points
2
0
relleum61's picture

December 25, 2022 at 06:43 pm

Your Christmas Miracle = Dagger
Tua = Santa
Is this the defense we all heard about from training camp? Nice time to bring it out.
This was a good weekend. Enjoy and Merry Christmas Packer fans!

2 points
2
0
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:16 pm

Packers Playoff Update:

Week 16 was truly a Christmas Miracle. Everything that needed to happen did. In order for the Packers to make the playoffs, here is everything that needs to happen:
-Packers win against the Vikings and the Lions
AND one of the following:
-Commanders lose at least one of their next two games (Browns, Cowboys)
OR
-Giants lose their remaining two games (Colts, Eagles)

I feel confident about our ability to play the Vikings and Lions close. Both have bad defenses (especially bad against the run), and I think we have the personnel (Jones, Dillon, Watson) to capitalize on these deficiencies (only if we use them though!). Our revitalized D-line should be able to capitalize on Minny's inconsistent O-line, and Jaire and Walker/Campbell will need to cover Jefferson and Hockenson somewhat well. We cannot make the same type of careless mistakes and missed opportunities we did against Miami, though, because these are two teams that will pounce on any errors we make.

I do not expect the Giants to lose out. The Colts are a dysfunctional team, and the Eagles will probably be resting their starters in week 18 if they beat the Saints next week.
The Commanders are an interesting matter on several counts. First, we don't know whether Taylor Heinicke or Carson Wentz will be starting next week. Secondly, the Cowboys locked up the #5 wild-card seed today, so if Philly wins against the Saints (and clinches the NFC East and #1 seed) then the Cowboys will likely rest their starters in week 18.

Here is who we should be rooting for in week 17:

-Browns over Commanders. This is the most important game we all should be watching. If the Commanders lose again, all the Packers have to do is win out to make the playoffs. The Browns' defense has seen a rebirth as of late, allowing a combined 57 points in the last 4 weeks (14.25 average per game), so they may be able to capitalize on the Commanders' offensive uncertainty. The Browns' offense has been bad, though, but hopefully Nick Chubb can get going and only let Deshaun Watson be a game-manager.

-Colts over Giants. If the Commanders (the likely favorite) beat the Browns, then it is good to have the Giants losing out as an emergency option. I don't think this is likely, though.

-Saints over Eagles and Cowboys over Titans. With a Cowboys win and an Eagles loss, the Cowboys would still technically have a chance at winning the NFC East. This means that both the Eagles and Cowboys would want to play their starters in week 18, because the Eagles would still need one more win to clinch the NFC East and the #1 seed and the Cowboys would need another win if they want to have any chance of winning the NFC East. This would make it much, much more likely that the Giants and Commanders, respectively, would both lose in week 18, opening up the playoff picture for the Packers. I think there is a decent chance of a Saints win given that the Eagles have been recently involved in a lot of close games against inferior opponents, especially if Jalen Hurts doesn't play. The Cowboys should be able to take care of business against a Titans team that will be starting a Rookie QB (Malik Willis)

-Raiders over 49ers. This is unlikely, but the Raiders' defense has been playing very well, and perhaps Adams and Carr can have a particularly good performance (Carr has been streaky). This matchup would not impact our playoff eligibility, but rather what team we would face in the Wild-Card round if we made the playoffs. If the Vikings lose to us and win against the Bears, but the 49ers beat the Raiders and Cardinals, then both teams would be 13-4, but the 49ers would get the tiebreaker over the Vikings based on in-division record (6-0 vs 4-2), giving them the #2 seed. That would be a much tougher matchup than the Vikings would be. We need the 49ers to lose one of their remaining two games if we want the Vikings to have the #2 seed. I sure think the 49ers won't lose to the Trace McSorely-led Cardinals, so the Raiders are our best bet.

As always, Go Pack Go!

0 points
2
2
barutanseijin's picture

December 26, 2022 at 07:53 am

If the Packers are afraid of SF then they have no business going to the playoffs.

-2 points
0
2
Philarod's picture

December 25, 2022 at 07:41 pm

My Gut Reaction: It wasn't beautiful, but the result was. A terrific second half by the D, and the O did enough good things to hang in, and then win the game.

I'm concerned with the injuries to Nixon and to Watson. Except for Jones -- when healthy -- nobody else on this offense is a playmaker right now. Who runs by anyone or breaks a tackle? Every now and then, Dillon plows for a few extra, although he had two chances to run it in late and got tripped up on one, and ran into the pile on the next one. Not sure if Jones was underutilized by poor play-calling or because of a slight injury, but he only really got loose once today.

I'm also mystified that Rodgers is getting criticized. For what, exactly? Yes, he overthrew Watson on that 4th-and-2? That happens. It looked to be the right read and he overthrew it. Perhaps, on the very first drive, he took a bad sack, and they had to settle for a field goal....but not saying that a TD was a sure thing there.

Oh, if you want to criticize him for an INT, go ahead. But it was 4th and long, and outside of blocking, Lazard is simply not a good receiver. It looked like two plays in a row -- first on Doubs (has promise, but he's a borderline NFL WR at this time) and then on Lazard - where defensive PIs were not called. Sure, put those on Rodgers. he also made lots of very good throws, and also bought time well several times. Switch QBs today and Miami wins by 10 or so.

What else do you want to criticize him for? I hear everyone say "hero ball"?! Do you get paid to write this? Was his QB sneak "hero ball"? (I'm sure he was trying to pad his rushing totals.) Were his scrambles "hero ball?" I saw a guy...yes, with a bad throw or two, he's human...but that wasn't a bad INT...trying to win a game. I know that with his stellar O-line and such weapons like Lazard, Big Dog, Cobb, Tonyan and Doubs that they should have put up 35, 40 points.

-2 points
3
5
GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 08:27 pm

Yeah, I didn't think it was a bad game by Rodgers, and I've been very critical of him this season. There were some infuriating plays for sure, but overall, he was decent. He made lots of nice throws and moved around in the pocket pretty well. He had a couple of nice runs, and I liked the QB sneak--something he's done far too little of in recent years.

2 points
2
0
Philarod's picture

December 25, 2022 at 08:37 pm

By his ultra-high standards, he's had an off-year. While there are things to point to for a lot of this (we all know those factors, I think), the Rodgers of the last couple years...heck, pretty much the AR of his whole career...probably could have found a way to get a couple more Ws out of this season. Without probing too closely, the Lions game and the Commanders game were winnable, despite all the other flaws of this squad.

Right now (well, if we have a healthy Watson and yes, Nixon) this team - with all its flaws (a patchwork Oline, lack of a good TE and a very mediocre receiver core, and an uneven D) - looks like a 10 or 11-win team. Will they be good enough to win 5 straight? I still don't know if we'll get by a motivated Vikings team -- can we either stop or outscore that offense? Remains to be seen. But today's overall effort would have at least kept us in the game against all but a few NFL teams.

1 points
2
1
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:04 pm

The Vikings' defense is very bad. Jones and Dillon should feast, and Watson too if he plays. Defense should be able to force some turnovers, and the D-Line should have a good matchup against the Vikings' inconsistent O-line

2 points
2
0
PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:03 pm

Watson said the hip shouldn't be a big deal. Nixon's likely won't either, hopefully. I do not know why Jones was neglected. Maybe he was injured.

Rodgers was hot-and-cold but came through when it mattered. There was a blatant DPI on the INT, though, and that was a terrible job by the refs.

Of course I am not an expert, so my words mean little, but I don't think the difference would have been huge had Love been in there for Rodgers. I think we still would have won (defensive turnovers would still have happened.

The offensive line can be good, but they have been inconsistent. They need to be at their best for this team to truly be at its best.

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stockholder's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:16 pm

Nijman went out. He's improving! Nijman is better than Newman.

2 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:29 pm

Agreed

1 points
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barutanseijin's picture

December 26, 2022 at 08:22 am

Did Tua play crappy? He had 3 INTs but some big plays and more yards than the GOAT in his own mind. Also a higher rating, for what that’s worth.

Rodgers’ negatives: Fluttery, wobbly passes, poor ball placement (an area where he was once excelled), watching a defender sack him in the red zone, throwing to covered guys, indecisiveness leading to late and consequently incomplete throws…

Rodgers positives: he didn’t stop the team from winning, the QB sneak, and a couple nice passes.

In sum, Rodgers played like a Bear QB. Someone said Trubiskey, which sounds about right.

0 points
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PackyCheese500's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:46 am

One QB has a broken thumb and one doesn’t. I am no Rodgers apologist, but we have to be fair.

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GregC's picture

December 25, 2022 at 09:24 pm

Did anyone else find it strange that the announcers thought the roughing the QB penalty on the Dolphins was a bad call? The guy clearly gave Rodgers a shove after he had thrown the ball. It was an easy call for the refs, and I would say the same thing if a Packer player had done it.

1 points
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Since'61's picture

December 25, 2022 at 11:03 pm

The announcers didn't say anything about the missed roughing call on Rodgers when a dolphin defender hit him in the head on the pick he threw trying to hit Lazard in the end zone.

The refs called the penalty on Miami because the defender pushed Rodgers when he could have pulled up. It was an easy call because it was a stupid play by the defender. Thanks, Since '61

4 points
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Ikrispy's picture

December 25, 2022 at 11:07 pm

Lazard counting the three defenders on the ground that he blocked on that edge running play?! Priceless!

4 points
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Johnblood27's picture

December 26, 2022 at 09:17 am

that was my favorite play of the entire game and maybe of the season.

maybe Doubs catch in the Bills game...

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