Packers Need to Give Jordan Love a Chance to Shine On Sunday

Things have fallen into place for the Green Bay Packers over the last week. The Pack got some help when the Arizona Cardinals beat the Dallas Cowboys Sunday afternoon and then clinched the top seed in the NFC playoffs by crushing the Vikings 37-10 on Sunday night. That made the outcome of Green Bay’s Week 18 contest in Detroit meaningless as far as the Packers playoff situation is concerned.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t important things that can take place Sunday at Ford Field. Head coach Matt LaFleur has already indicated he will play his starters including quarterback Aaron Rodgers although we aren’t sure how long. We are also unsure which, if any, of the Packers injured players will be back in the lineup for the regular-season finale.

While Rodgers will start the game against Detroit, he is unlikely to play all of it. Whether he will play a few series, a quarter or a half remains to be seen, but with nothing at stake and Rodgers nursing an injured toe, the Packers will look to play Rodgers enough to keep the reigning MVP sharp without exposing him to unnecessary harm.

That means that Jordan Love should see extensive action on Sunday. The key for the Packers is to make sure Love can maximize this opportunity. That means creating a game plan designed specifically for the second-year quarterback out of Utah State.

Love has seen significant action in three games this season. Two of them were in garbage time: the season opener against the Saints and the Week 17 clash against the Vikings. Love also made one start in Kansas City when Rodgers missed the game because he tested positive for Covid-19. But the coaching staff didn’t know Rodgers would miss the game until mid-week and for the most part, Love ran the offense designed for Rodgers. That shouldn’t happen again on Sunday in Detroit.

There are obvious differences between Rodgers and Love at this point in their respective careers. The Packers starting quarterback is a three-time NFL MVP and the favorite to win a fourth this season. He has played 17 years in the league and has been a starter for 14 of those seasons. Rodgers has earned Pro Bowl honors 10 times and has started 205 regular-season games and led the Packers to a win in Super Bowl XLV.

Rodgers is an expert at reading defenses. There is nothing he has not seen in an NFL game. In addition, A-Rod has played a role in installing the offense the Packers run. It has been a collaborative effort between LaFleur and Rodgers mixing in aspects of the offense Rodgers ran under Mike McCarthy and the offense LaFleur wants to run.

When he gets to the line of scrimmage, Rodgers can instantly see how the defense is lined up and can audible out of the original play to a call that is better suited to defeat that defense. Even if he guesses wrong, his experience, skill and chemistry with his receivers allows him to make adjustments mid-play that can often turn a tough situation into a substantial gain.

Love is in his second season and has started only one NFL game thus far. He has thrown just 45 passes in his NFL career. His ability to adjust mid-play is very much a work in progress. Reading defenses was one of the areas scouts felt Love needed time to develop before he could reach his potential and become a quality starter in the NFL.

Hopefully, this Sunday, LaFleur can devise a specific game plan designed for what Love does best. This will mean more snaps under center and fewer from the shotgun, different kinds of run-pass options (RPOs) and plays that limit the number of reads Love has to make against the Detroit defense. This will give Love a chance to show what he can do under favorable conditions.

There is a lot a stake here. The Packers quarterback situation next season is up in the air. Will Rodgers return to the Packers for 2022? If he does, the Packers could keep Love on the roster as the backup and heir apparent or they could look to trade him. This year’s draft is not deep at the quarterback position and there are plenty of teams who might be interested in Love especially if he shows potential against the Lions.

If Rodgers leaves, Love will certainly be competing for the vacant job with the Packers. A strong showing on Sunday would increase the confidence level the Packers coaching staff and players have in the young signal caller and give Love more self confidence as well. If Love bombs, perhaps the Packers look to sign a veteran free agent or trade for a quarterback instead of sticking with Love.

Hopefully, the Packers have a suitable game plan to bring out the best in Love when he takes the field on Sunday regardless of whether he plays one quarter, a half or more. The results would benefit the Packers and Love and have some impact on his future with the franchise and in the NFL.

 

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__________________________

You can follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers

__________________________

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9 points
 

Comments (101)

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

January 06, 2022 at 12:10 pm

You betcha they need to get him more experience for many reasons including the playoffs, but also for offseason decisions.

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GilMartin's picture

January 06, 2022 at 12:48 pm

Absolutely and hopefully they do it and do it right. Thanks for the comment, KnockTheSnotOutOfYou.

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murf7777's picture

January 07, 2022 at 08:03 am

Good article Gil…..one of your best of the season. What I really liked is how you explained that they didn’t have a game plan for him in KC and it’s important to have plays that will work for him and not Rodgers. That will provide him a fair chance to show his value to the Packers and the NFL.

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mnbadger's picture

January 06, 2022 at 12:46 pm

With a good showing, we could receive a 2nd or 3rd rounder for him, assuming we come to terms with our "JERK" quarterback, the "MVVP"
Don't kill me, not my words but I just couldn't resist. Remember, this is a week to relax a little before the playoffs and have some fun! GPG! Pack 27-23

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GilMartin's picture

January 06, 2022 at 12:50 pm

A good showing helps no matter what the future holds for Rodgers and Love. Hoping they give him the tools needed to be successful. Thanks for the comment, mnbadger.

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Coldworld's picture

January 06, 2022 at 01:34 pm

This is, less spectacularly maybe, true for all those depth players who can get notable playing time in season. Opportunity knocks for some. Hopefully we can get a couple of good drives on either side of the ball and then have a plan centered on removing the most important players whenever possible.

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croatpackfan's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:03 pm

Just avoid Yiadom.

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Coldworld's picture

January 07, 2022 at 11:03 am

On Sunday, I am fine with Yiadom getting plenty of snaps. Each one is an injury prevented for someone else. If healthy he’s likely to be active through the playoffs for ST. Making him a little less bad on D is therefore also an investment. The final score on Sunday matters not one bit.

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croatpackfan's picture

January 07, 2022 at 11:59 am

I got your point, but still. It is ugly to see how that guy playing.

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Coldworld's picture

January 07, 2022 at 01:46 pm

No argument there

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packer132's picture

January 06, 2022 at 12:47 pm

Good analysis Gil. Packers want to win the game, and I would hope Rodgers gets a decent lead and just plays the first half. Love has a nice opportunity to get more live action, and has had time the last few weeks in practice to work with starters. Nobody knows what happens after this season, and I cheer for Green Bay first. I also know another year or two with Rodgers will not hurt them in trying to get another Super Bowl win.

7 points
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GilMartin's picture

January 06, 2022 at 12:52 pm

Thanks for the kind words, packer132. I feel the same way and I agree, keeping Rodgers would give the Packers a better chance to win the Super Bowl next season and the year after. But hopefully, we can win it this year and then see where things fall during the offseason. Thanks for the comment and GPG.

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Bearmeat's picture

January 06, 2022 at 01:30 pm

The very best thing for the Packers would be to have Love play well.

1. This gives them insurance if 12 actually does retire (he won't).
2. This gives 1265 leverage over other teams in convincing them they'll actually move on from 12 via trade. It maxes out compensation. (they should)
3. It builds up Love's confidence as the de facto future.

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YouAskedForThis's picture

January 06, 2022 at 01:31 pm

I am hoping to see his command of the offense along with his ability to read the defense. He has an NFL arm and solid athleticism...just needs to show he can read the defense and limit being risky with the football. Thus far we've seen very limited and mixed results. Am hoping he is ready to show he can take that next step...and let it rip a little bit.

We will soon find out if Getsy, Hackett, LeFluer , etc...have made significant progress with Jordan Love.

This is a great opportunity for Love and the Packer Brass. Thankfully the Pack is has the luxury to play Love Sunday, and the Lions will be playing hard if their last several games are any indication.

3 points
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10ve 💚's picture

January 06, 2022 at 01:32 pm

Gil, my hope is that Love has a huge game and other teams view him favorably and want to trade for him. Then next 5 years, we keep AR12, and also draft a new QB in later rounds or get a veteran QB for backup. Or maybe QB3 (Kurt Benkert) steps out of the PS to be QB2.

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dobber's picture

January 08, 2022 at 10:01 am

Agreed: a really nice performance by Love does nothing but help the Packers in the long run.

At this stage, he and ARod are in completely different categories, and it's hugely unlikely that Love turns into a generational player of the caliber of an ARod or a Favre. But a good performance by Love increases his value and gives the Packers more possible avenues for managing their roster mess and taking advantage of opportunities. More choices is always better.

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NitschkeFromTheGrave's picture

January 06, 2022 at 01:47 pm

With the wind at our backs and with a comfortable lead I say play him with the intent of trading him. Long term, LOVE IS NOT THE GUY.

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Bearmeat's picture

January 06, 2022 at 01:53 pm

and you know this... how? smh

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dobber's picture

January 06, 2022 at 02:40 pm

"With the wind at our backs ..."

Indoors?

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NitschkeFromTheGrave's picture

January 06, 2022 at 03:07 pm

It's just a metaphor brother...

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dobber's picture

January 06, 2022 at 05:38 pm

I know...I thought it was funny! ;)

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Guam's picture

January 06, 2022 at 03:32 pm

I have no idea whether Love is the guy or not and I don't know how anyone else knows that either. He simply hasn't played enough to know much about him. I hope he plays extensively against Detroit so everyone has a better idea of what he can and can't do.

I know the Rodgers fans want this kid to fail but isn't that being short sighted? If he plays well he gives the Packers options (trade him, trade Rodgers, etc. etc.). If he plays poorly it means the Packers get little out of a first round pick. I would much rather see Love light it up.

11 points
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Irish_Cheesehead's picture

January 06, 2022 at 09:30 pm

You can predict the future! Wow!

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Leatherhead's picture

January 06, 2022 at 02:26 pm

The 4 QBs taken in the first 50 picks in 2020 are all starting and playing well, and none of them have as strong of a team around them as Love. In his only meaningful appearance, on the road, against one of the top teams in the league, he didn’t embarrass himself.

Would you like to know how Rodgers did his second year? I’m glad you asked.

6 of 15. 3 sacks. Yards per attempt under two. Passer rating under 50.

By every measure, Love is ahead of Rodgers at the same point in their respective careers. And he’ll be even better next year.

7 points
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Irish_Cheesehead's picture

January 06, 2022 at 09:35 pm

The last time I saw so many people trashing a Packers QB was in 2008 when Rodgers took over for Favre. I’m not sure why people can’t support Rodgers AND Love.

7 points
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Coldworld's picture

January 07, 2022 at 11:13 am

For many, back then, support for Rodgers potential was seen by some as disrespect for Favre and a sign that change might happen. Dismissing Rodgers was a way of convincing themselves that Favre was forever. That’s ignoring the Favre not Packers fan types, of whom there were a number. The same phenomenon is rife now (often not hard to discern). Ironically with even less actual experience of Love than we had of Rodgers.

Very emotive and equally irrational. In the end, utterly wrong (though none of us could be certain of that even that far into Rodgers career).

1 points
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Crankbait's picture

January 07, 2022 at 08:14 am

Love, so far, does not appear to have the physical toughness to be a starting quarterback in the NFL.
His accuracy is definitely not there yet. This game may finally show what he does have because our coaches have been planning all week for him.
Hope he has a breakout performance.

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Spock's picture

January 07, 2022 at 08:28 am

"Love, so far, does not appear to have the physical toughness to be a starting quarterback in the NFL." Please explain how you arrived at this "toughness" diagnosis. To me the kid appears to be unafraid and willing to put his body out there (see the 1st down run last game). Where does this comment come from?

2 points
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jeremyjjbrown's picture

January 06, 2022 at 02:21 pm

Love needs to stop throwing at receivers feet ASAP. I can't imagine he does this in practice, so game time should really help him.

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Leatherhead's picture

January 06, 2022 at 02:37 pm

I’m pretty sure he saw the guy wasn’t open and just threw it into the ground rather than get hit or sacked.

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jurp's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:28 pm

AR has done that a number of times himself this season, as a way to throw the ball away without risking an interception or a sack.

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Oppy's picture

January 06, 2022 at 08:31 pm

Rodgers is the guy who REALLY needs to stop throwing the at receivers feet. He's a 17 year vet and he still throws short passes below players knees.

-2 points
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HarryHodag's picture

January 06, 2022 at 02:29 pm

Love has the tough task of succeeding one of the most accurate passers in league history. If he goes 50 percent 'fans' will be asking for his head. The key is to not throw interceptions.

Depending how things go after March 1 this could also be an audition for another team.

Any way you slice it I hope Jordan does well.

9 points
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Leatherhead's picture

January 06, 2022 at 02:38 pm

The key is to not turn it over. That’s the most important thing.

4 points
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Coldworld's picture

January 06, 2022 at 05:53 pm

We may be playing against the man some thought should be the QB of the future. Certainty can be such a let down.

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Spock's picture

January 07, 2022 at 08:39 am

So, you're saying this is what it all Boyles down to? :)

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Coldworld's picture

January 07, 2022 at 11:26 am

Cookie

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Oppy's picture

January 07, 2022 at 05:56 pm

What boyle put on tape during his time in GB:

- Cool under pressure in the pocket
- A strong arm and a willingness to chuck the rock downfield
- An inability to throw with NFL level accuracy

I'm going to assume the lack of accuracy is why Boyle has a 3:6 TD to INT ratio and a passer rating of 63.5 in 2021.

0 points
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wildbill's picture

January 06, 2022 at 03:17 pm

Love=Kizer 2.0. The more teams see him play the less likely we will get anything more than a case of brats for him.

-6 points
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Oppy's picture

January 06, 2022 at 08:48 pm

Can you articulate what it is about Jordan Love that reminds you of Deshone Kizer?

How would you compare Jordan Love and Tim Boyle? Why are we skipping Tim Boyle?

1 points
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stockholder's picture

January 06, 2022 at 03:23 pm

It doesn't matter what Love does, unless you want to trade him. The guy just isn't ready. Nothing has been thrown deep, unless it's up for grabs. He'll only hand the ball off. And throw short. He needs more camp time. And if you give him to much time with the #1s, everyone will suffer. <TIMING IS TO IMPORTANT> We all like the way the packers can work with a player to show improvement. But now is not the time. Break the Lions back first. Then protect Rodgers from injury. MLF must protect against Laziness. Over confidence. And not let Love stink up the Goals of this team.

5 points
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jurp's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:32 pm

We have no need to "break the Lions back", so I would hope that we play AR, Adams and most of the other starters only a series or two. The OL will probably have to play more of the game due to injuries.

You are judging Love's readiness on 45 passes? SMH. Of course, he's mixed race, so maybe that's what you're basing your "analysis" on.

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stockholder's picture

January 06, 2022 at 05:25 pm

Jurp- Please don't respond to my comments. Your head is never on the comment.

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jurp's picture

January 06, 2022 at 06:25 pm

"Your head is never on the comment." And just what the heck does that mean? If you mean that my comment isn't relevant to your post, I literally QUOTE your post so you're, as usual, wrong.

You may have noticed that I don't always comment on your posts because sometimes you actually post something that's based in reality.

I will continue to call out poorly written, poorly thought-out, and poorly reasoned posts, regardless of who posts them. It's just that YOU have the bulk of those posts.

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edp1959's picture

January 07, 2022 at 05:30 am

"I will continue to call out poorly written, poorly thought-out, and poorly reasoned posts, regardless of who posts them".

Now that's hilarious, I look forward to reading your comments in response to posts made by a user named jurp.

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jurp's picture

January 07, 2022 at 09:58 am

My posts are never poorly written, given that I was a professional writer for 30 years, and not poorly thought-put nor poorly reasoned because I was a professional analyst as well for 10 of those 30 years, so there's no need to comment on my own posts for those reasons.

I try to post factual and well-reasoned analyses, which is why I actually seldom post on the main thread because my football analytical skills are inferior to those of TGR, Coldworld, Leatherhead, dobber and many others. I do, however, call out posters who post what is essentially, opinionated crap when I deem it necessary, and when I do so, I try to be factual in my posts. I will also ask questions as to why a poster thinks they way they do. And I will always point to racism when I see it.

Needless to say, I've certainly commented on your own posts.

-4 points
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Ferrari-Driver's picture

January 07, 2022 at 02:40 pm

jurp: "My posts are never poorly written, given that I was a professional writer for 30 years..."

You post made me think of myself and how I am essentially the antithesis of you.

When I think about some of the stuff I posted on this site over the years, I have to laugh at my lack of insight and foresight.

I remember when we drafted Rashan Gary; I was jumping up and down that that he is going to be the biggest bust the Packers ever drafted except for Tony Mandarich.

I also remember saying Devante Adams during his second year on the team and demanding that he be cut; "this guy has hands of stone and would be lucky if he could catch a cold".

Throw in the crummy grammar and misspelled words and there I am. Nevertheless, I love the Packers and have a great time on this website passing along my bias opinions and admit that I have had more than a few feathers in my mouth from all the crow I've had to eat over the years.

jurp, I do enjoy your takes as well.

2 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

January 07, 2022 at 06:42 pm

If you're talking about the watch party thread, opine away!

Don't worry about your analytical prowess; mine are inferior to several posters on CHTV. Don't give that another thought. Also, the comments I like best on the watch party on the ones highlighting the little things, like a note that X picked up the blitz to allow that completion or which player threw the block, or missed the block/failed to pick up the blitz. I also think over time it trains you eye and mind to comment while the game it being played.

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

January 07, 2022 at 11:25 am

Pot, kettle, black.

If anyone posts here it’s open to a response by anyone. Ridiculous or sublime, makes no odds. If one just wants agreement then one has nothing worth saying and are saying what you are for the wrong reasons.

I’ve argued with Jurp, and most here. I’ve agreed with them too. Not all insights are equal by any contributor (some are downright mystically cryptic), but we come here presumably to see what others are seeing and to discuss Packer football, not win popularity contests. Let’s quit with the personal derision, and particularly jumping on such bandwagons and cancel BS.

Ignore them Jurp and keep commenting. We don’t need to deter participation here, especially thoughtful comments.

2 points
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Oppy's picture

January 07, 2022 at 05:59 pm

(some are downright mystically cryptic)

I know who that is ... lol

2 points
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dobber's picture

January 08, 2022 at 09:36 am

"If anyone posts here it’s open to a response by anyone. "

A post is an open invitation both to be read and for a response (whether it's text or thumb). If people don't believe or can't handle that, then they need to lurk.

1 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:32 pm

Man, stockholder, you have pure gold buried in each and every one of your posts:

"Nothing has been thrown deep, unless it's up for grabs."

That's marketable wisdom right there; stickers, buttons, posters, clothing. Cash-in, bud, don't just give it away here!

8 points
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jurp's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:40 pm

Yeah, stockholder sure has a way with words. It's a gift!

-1 points
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Grandfathered's picture

January 06, 2022 at 07:59 pm

I would rather see Love spend some quality playing time with the 1's. After Adams gets his franchise/personal record and AR plays well enough for MVP!

1 points
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HawkPacker's picture

January 06, 2022 at 09:37 pm

Totally agree. This makes more sense rather than him playing with the reserves.

0 points
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Irish_Cheesehead's picture

January 06, 2022 at 09:39 pm

Break the Lions back? It’s the Lions. And the game is meaningless. Go play some Madden.

2 points
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Spock's picture

January 07, 2022 at 08:56 am

For the love of football, Stockholder, can you - Please- learn the difference between "to" and "too". I'm not going to be the grammar police here as I'm hardly qualified but you might be taken more seriously if you wrote "Timing is TOO important" or "And if you give him TOO much time ..." your posts could at least be read without cringing . Asking for a friend. :)
Honestly, stockholder, I have a hard time getting past this as darn near every post you put out does this. Not trying to yank your chain (honestly) but you need to correct this going forward if you want anyone to take your posts seriously.

0 points
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stockholder's picture

January 07, 2022 at 10:08 pm

You guys care more about the spelling, then the content. I've explained this before. If you put in a type-o. Then change it. The comment comes back-up, as a fresh statement. It works to make a point. { I get you all think your journalist.} And yes, I thought the Love pick sucked. I stated before the draft; that Jalen Hurts was to good of QB and should be the packers 2nd round pick. If they want one!!! He went at 53. After the Eagles took him. I felt he would have a better career then Love. So far I'm right. I have always kept my comments to football. Unlike he who picks.

0 points
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dobber's picture

January 08, 2022 at 09:44 am

"I felt he would have a better career then Love. So far I'm right."

Boy, that's really stepping out on a limb...

But as of right now, Hurts is a far better fantasy QB than he is an NFL QB at this point. Philly is flush with 1st round picks this year...don't be surprised if they're in the discussions for acquiring one of the high-end vet QBs on the market in March (Watson, Wilson, Rodgers).

0 points
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stockholder's picture

January 08, 2022 at 09:17 pm

So says you. Hurts was named a pro Bowl Alternate.

1 points
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croatpackfan's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:29 pm

I know my opinion is not popular on this page. But, everybody may dream. For example - Aaron Rodgers will renegotiate his contract and play for Packers for 5 mil per season, so Davante Adams could get his huge contract. Than, all other expensive players will accept paycut as they like Packers and play for league minimum, and Packers will be out of Cap Hell.

Nice dream, isn't it?

Contrary to many here, I believe in Jordan Love. I believe in his intelligence and that he will learn NFL defense. That is not something you can learn in 1 or 2 years. It is several years project. Be patient. Every young player need to learn a lot. First they need to learn how to catch the NFL speed. Than start to act at that speed. I doubt that all college QB are learning much of D. They are playing by script. There is no much time for any player in college for learning other positions that that he is playing.

We can see how dificult is for any player on single position on NFL team learn just his position and play on high level. Of course, some of them shines, but those are rare individuals.

To learn how to play QB position in NFL is the most difficult. Because you need to learn every position on O and D. And you need to be aware of specific looks and development of the plays. For O and for opposing D.

Some down voted post of AR statistic from his 1st game. That data shows you how difficult is to learn QB position, not that AR was or are bad QB. Remember - that is the process.

6 points
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jurp's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:39 pm

To your point, I remember an interview that Rodgers did a few years ago where he said something like this (not a direct quote because I can't find that interview now):

-- When I first started for the Packers, I would come up to the line and know exactly where everyone on the offense was going to be when I snapped the ball. After a couple of years, when I came up to the line I knew where everyone on the defense was going to be. It was definitely a learning experience to get to that point. --

People who think that Love isn't a good QB at this point in his career are impatient and poor analysts at best. Some here have also shown that they're racists.

4 points
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Since&#039;61's picture

January 06, 2022 at 04:34 pm

MLF should have Rodgers and the other starters on a snap count. Once they reach or exceed the snap pull out Rodgers for Love and pull out other key starters as well.

No one has anything to prove in this game except for Love.
Give Love a solid chance to show what he can do. He will need a series or two just to settle in and get comfortable. The coaches need to see if he can get into a rhythm. If he does that is a positive sign for him going forward.

The Packers need to give him a chance or they’ll never see what they have or don’t have. Thanks, Since ‘61

11 points
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Grandfathered's picture

January 06, 2022 at 07:46 pm

How will Love get "a solid chance to prove what he can do" if all of the other starters are pulled? I think if playing Love, play him with the 1's as much as possible.

6 points
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Since&#039;61's picture

January 06, 2022 at 09:14 pm

I wouldn't mind giving Love a series or two with the starters but keeping our guys healthy needs to be the priority for the playoffs. I think MLF has it right. See how it goes and pull out starters as the game progresses. Besides Love is probably more familiar with the 2nd and 3rd team players the he is with our starting skill players.
Thanks, Since '61

1 points
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dobber's picture

January 07, 2022 at 09:16 am

I agree: it will be hard to not get him some decent support based on actives and inactives. As an example: unless they have 10 OL active on Sunday, he's going to be playing with some starters there, and all of the TEs play meaningful snaps, so the support should be decent there. I think he'll get plenty of Lazard, MVS and ESB to throw to, also, so that's not terrible. It's going to feel like a third preseason game, assuming the Packers don't flub it in the first half and have to play from behind.

1 points
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Since&#039;61's picture

January 07, 2022 at 09:27 am

Agree Dobber, that is pretty much how I see it as well. Stay safe. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

January 07, 2022 at 01:52 pm

He likes throwing to Winfree too, from off season and on the PS. It’s not so much about how good the individual is, but whether there is any understanding between the two. ESB, Winfree, Davis might be more helpful to Love because they’ve spent time on the field together.

3 points
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Since&#039;61's picture

January 07, 2022 at 03:16 pm

Agree Coldworld. Love is probably more familar with the receivers that you mentioned than the #1 receivers.
Thanks, Since '61

0 points
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dekan51's picture

January 07, 2022 at 04:09 pm

"He likes throwing to Winfree too"

Agree. I felt like in the KC game, he resorted to being AR like in that when in doubt he threw the ball to Adams when Adams was not open. AR and DA will both be pulled at the same time (most likely) so JL will have everyone else to throw to, ESB, Winfree, MVS, and Lazard. I hope they keep the OL intact, though I see the 3rd string running back playing a lot.

0 points
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JohnnyLogan's picture

January 06, 2022 at 05:08 pm

I think Love could turn out okay. Has a big arm and seems like a smart kid. We don't need him to play like Rodgers. I'd be thrilled if he played as well as Tyler Huntley, the Baltimore backup, who almost beat us. Huntley was an undrafted free agent, is only 23, and looked pretty pretty good. I'd like to see some of the same talents from Love, something, anything, where we can see future potential. In his limited opportunities he hasn't really done much, specifically, he hasn't had that one great throw yet that says there's magic there. That's what we'll be hoping to see this weekend.

Green Bay execs may have already made up their minds as to whether it'll be Rodgers or Love next year, but this weekend, though a small sample size, could still if even subconsciously, influence their decision. So it's not true this is a meaningless game. Just the opposite, it could be very important to Green Bay's future.

4 points
5
1
dobber's picture

January 07, 2022 at 09:30 am

Huntley reminds me a lot of a younger Tyrod Taylor, before all the injuries and before Taylor started throwing the ball with more consistency. Neither really threw the ball downfield very much early on, and that's where the questions with Huntley lie: can he run a full offense? I think he'll be traded either this off-season or next and get a chance to win a starting job somewhere with a team trying to strike gold and find a quick fix at QB. I actually like Huntley better than Jalen Hurts.

"Green Bay execs may have already made up their minds as to whether it'll be Rodgers or Love next year"

This is probably true in the sense that they've likely decided on whether it's QB1 or someone else not named Rodgers. Love will get his chance to stake a claim and is likely the first horse out of the gate in that race, but they'll bring in a vet next summer if #12 is gone and I wouldn't presume that it's a given Love will win that battle.

0 points
2
2
Packers0808's picture

January 06, 2022 at 06:00 pm

Have a feeling Love will not be a Packer next year, especially sounding more and more Rodgers will be a Packer again next year! Packers my guess will be drafting a QB in later rounds next time around!

2 points
5
3
jurp's picture

January 06, 2022 at 06:16 pm

There's absolutely no reason why BOTH could not be Packers next year. Re-signing AR does not prevent the team from keeping Love. And if you think they'll trade Love to make AR happy, then I think you have a low opinion of AR; I don't think he's that petty.

And yes, the double-negative is intentional.

6 points
7
1
dobber's picture

January 07, 2022 at 09:28 am

"And if you think they'll trade Love to make AR happy, then I think you have a low opinion of AR;"

As #12 said at one point: he never worries about competition at QB because he knows he can beat out anyone they set against him...and it's true. ARod wins that battle by default--at least in 2022--just by being resigned, if they get to that point. I agree with your sentiment: I think that new or extended contract will be enough to make him happy.

3 points
3
0
Packers0808's picture

January 07, 2022 at 09:44 am

I disagree for the simple reason Love just doesn't have the right stuff to ever be a starter in the league, he doesn't have the smarts and or techniques to do that! Time will tell, he is a back up at best!

-2 points
2
4
jurp's picture

January 07, 2022 at 10:08 am

If we re-sign AR, then Love, while he's on his rookie contract, is the designated backup -essentially, Bratkowski's role under Starr.

As for Love not having "smarts" or "technique", give the man a break - he's played in only one meaningful game in his entire career. There is quite literally no way for any of us fans to know whether or not Love can succeed as a starter. Presumably, MLF, his coaches, and Gutekunst know whether or not Love is equipped to be AR's eventual replacement and I'll trust their judgment over my own.

1 points
4
3
dobber's picture

January 08, 2022 at 09:33 am

It's "home-teaming" and happens in too many places in our lives and quashes rational analysis and thought...a blind allegiance to some position, person, or philosophy. I'm on this side--hell or high water--everything on the other side is fundamentally bad, stupid, and evil. It's maddening.

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

January 07, 2022 at 06:10 pm

He doesn't have the smarts?

Care to elaborate on how you came to that conclusion?

For Reference, Love scored 27 on the Wonderlic test, which ranked as the 5th highest among QBs who took the test in 2020.

A score of 27 on the Wonderlic places him at the 76th percentile across ALL people (not just football players) who take the test.

He's not dim.

2 points
2
0
stockholder's picture

January 06, 2022 at 06:28 pm

I would sign Rodgers. Love was Gute's 1st QB try. If Gute learned anything from TT. He still will draft another. And I remember Arron Brooks, and Matt Hassleback getting traded. So I hope your correct.

2 points
4
2
Irish_Cheesehead's picture

January 06, 2022 at 09:47 pm

Except neither Brooks nor Hasselbeck were first round picks that the GM traded up to get.

4 points
5
1
dobber's picture

January 07, 2022 at 10:07 pm

...and neither was drafted or traded by TT.

2 points
2
0
Roadrunner23's picture

January 07, 2022 at 07:33 am

My feeling is the Packers know exactly what they have in Jordan Love, an average NFL QB nothing more. Gutey will do all he can to resign Rodgers and trade Love in the off-season anything else could cost Gutey his job down the line.
ND

2 points
6
4
dekan51's picture

January 07, 2022 at 04:03 pm

" anything else could cost Gutey his job down the line."

nope. nada. zero. zilch.

My feeling is the Packers know exactly what they have in Jordan Love, an unproven player with a very high ceiling for an NFL QB. What they saw in training camp, the days he tore it up, is why they keep him.

Gutey will do all he can to resign Rodgers and keep Love as the backup QB, just like the Pack did w/AR.

Trading Love in the off-season is stupid and could cost Gutey his job down the line.

-2 points
1
3
jurp's picture

January 07, 2022 at 10:14 am

I'd love (pun intended) for all of you posters who are on the Trade Love! and/or Love Sucks! bandwagons to answer the following:

In your opinion, who should the Packers keep as their backup once they trade Love? Benkert (if so, what has he shown that Love hasn't?), a random unemployed vet (if so, whom?) or a young stud coming out of college in this year's draft (if so, whom and why?)

Given that I'm sure your anti-Love stance is based on a thorough analysis of the Packers QB situation, Love's pre-season play, his collegiate play (including his Junior year when he had a stable coaching/player situation), his play in the KC game, both when being blitzed and when not being blitzed, and the potential replacement that you think the Packers should bring in, answering my question in some detail should be very easy for you.

3 points
5
2
Oppy's picture

January 07, 2022 at 06:12 pm

Putting feet to the coals, lol.

2 points
3
1
PatrickGB's picture

January 07, 2022 at 11:09 am

I don’t think Love sucks. Also, I am sure he will get better. But at this point in his career, he doesn’t look like a first round QB. With an offense built around him and a full off-season of work he will likely look better. Yet there is absolutely no comparison to Rodgers or any other premium QB in the league. Maybe with cap savings the team could build a great team around him but I doubt that he will be anything close to the two guys who proceeded him.

-1 points
2
3
Coldworld's picture

January 07, 2022 at 11:34 am

I don’t know if Love is going to be good or bad. I do not know how anyone here believes they do.

Wasn’t till further a long that I became a relatively early advocate for Rodgers being the future . I admit now, as I did then, that my belief was just that, belief not a done deal, and started to really coalesce in his third preseason, watching him play (which was still up and down). The justification wasn’t conclusive till his second year as a starter.

3 points
5
2
dobber's picture

January 07, 2022 at 01:06 pm

Spot on, CW.

1 points
3
2
Oppy's picture

January 07, 2022 at 06:21 pm

Putting this here for all of the "We know Love isn't the future" people.

https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2017/11/29/16713628/aaron-rodgers-brett-fa...

Please pay attention to how the fanbase and media felt about Aaron Rodgers going into his third NFL season. I remember.

Please also consider that Jordan Love is only in his second NFL season, and he did not have the benefit of having a training camp or preseason his rookie year due to Covid.

So many people willing to proclaim a young player a bust without any sample size.

1 points
3
2
stockholder's picture

January 07, 2022 at 10:49 pm

This was Brett Favre's backup QB list too.
Don Majikowski
Ty Detmer (1990 Heisman Winner)
Mark Brunell (started 151 games with Jacksonville/Washington)
Jim McMahon (Super Bowl Winner)
Doug Pederson (Super Bowl Winning Coach)
Matt Hasselbeck (started 131 games and a super bowl for Seattle)
Kurt Warner (Camp arm but Super Bowl Winner)
Aaron Brooks (started 82 games for New Orleans)
Danny Wuerffel (1996 Heisman Winner)
Aaron Rodgers
pat Ramsey.

-1 points
1
2
Oppy's picture

January 08, 2022 at 12:59 am

What does any of that have to do with people proclaiming Love a bust?

4 points
4
0
stockholder's picture

January 08, 2022 at 07:30 am

Love is a BACK-up! The comparison should not be Rodgers. { But as a back-up.} Has he proven his worth as a "back-up." Not YET!!! Until he can establish himself from past back-ups. And not by his draft status. The Bust label will be proclaimed. If you look at the list under Favre. You will notice the awards/stats his back-ups had. And if Love was selected by another club. He would have to earn the title," starting QB." You and others want to put the cart before the Horse. Past success does not mean future Glory.

1 points
3
2
Oppy's picture

January 08, 2022 at 08:35 am

My point is pretty simple- the Packers would have dumped Aaron Rodgers before Aaron Rodgers became Aaron Rodgers if they followed the analysis and desires of the fans.

Aaron Rodgers was a BACK-up! who had not proven his worth as a "back-up" (not yet) and the bust label was proclaimed into his third year in the league.

Rodgers didn't earn the title, "starting QB." He was given the position when the Packers traded the incumbent, and over half of Packers fans were sure Rodgers was a waste of a roster spot.

-1 points
0
1
dobber's picture

January 08, 2022 at 09:49 am

"My point is pretty simple- the Packers would have dumped Aaron Rodgers before Aaron Rodgers became Aaron Rodgers if they followed the analysis and desires of the fans."

They would've also cut bait on Rashan Gary by this point.

Some players are born. Others are made. Most are some combination of the two.

The key is figuring out what kind of player you're working with, and whether your organization has the opportunity and patience for those who are the latter. Many coaching staffs are given credit for being great "teachers" and developers of raw talent, but part of that is recognizing what the players they're working with need.

0 points
0
0
stockholder's picture

January 08, 2022 at 11:23 am

So Love should be the Qb based on propaganda, Drama, And No GAME DAY Experience. Thats not merit. And the desire of the fans was split because of it. TT gave Rodgers the job, because of words behind closed doors with Favre. Much of what started with the drafting of a QB and not defense. There are two sides to every story. Not to mention a petition started against TT as GM. Rodgers earned the "Back-up" QB first! (That was the point of my comment.) And if you listen to managements comments during Rodgers time here. Management isn't without Fault.

1 points
1
0
dobber's picture

January 08, 2022 at 12:19 pm

Everyone assumes there's only one possibility, and that's Love being the next QB1 of the Packers. That's the fundamental fallacy in this discussion--it's either Rodgers or Love in 2022. It could be Rodgers...it could be Love...it could be Drew Lock (as a f'rinstance)...hell, it could be Tua or any number of QBs. I'll fall back on the Matt Stafford situation as an example: everyone knew he was on the block well before he was traded, but nobody assumed David Blough was going to be the next QB of the Lions.

This situation is incredibly fluid...open your minds, folks.

2 points
2
0
Oppy's picture

January 08, 2022 at 05:07 pm

I've been incredibly consistent on my stance- I don't know that Love is the QB that will ensure stability and competitive football in green bay for the next decade or more.. but I know that Rodgers isn't. Please stop attempting to put words in my mouth.

My post was clear and to the point: there's all these Packers fans saying it's CLEAR Love will never be an NFL starting QB, and that's ridiculous.

Reading comprehension is at an all time low, and people's desires to ignore what people write and replace it what they believe was being said is rampant.

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

January 08, 2022 at 08:49 am

And what was Rodgers till after year 3? Just because Rodgers confounded nearly everyone later doesn’t change the complete contradiction in your post. Maybe Love confounds the odds too and maybe he doesn’t, but your argument confounds logic.

-1 points
0
1
dobber's picture

January 08, 2022 at 12:23 pm

Umm...none of them were good enough to unseat Favre when he was active?

It must've made sense to him...but most of us would need a roadmap.

0 points
0
0
ReaganRulz's picture

January 08, 2022 at 08:27 am

Nothing builds confidence like beating great teams and crushing inferior ones. I hope the Packers run it up against the Lions!! This is what we need as we enter the Playoffs. Get Rodgers his standard 3-4 touchdowns. Get our RBs to rush for a total of 150+ yards and a touchdown or two. And get Adams at least 7 catches and a TD. Let’s Go!!

1 points
1
0