Peppers Defends Defensive Struggles After Win Over Falcons: We Got the Win

The Packers' defense gave up 465 total yards in Monday night's win, but Julius Peppers seems to only care about just that: it was a win.

“That’s the most important thing, getting the win. There were obviously a lot of things we could have done better, but at the end of the day, you play to win,” Peppers told ESPN Wisconsin's Jason Wilde after the victory. “It’s good. We won. That’s what we wanted to do – get the win. So it’s on to next weekend."

Next weekend the Packers visit the Bills, so it's not like this isn't still something to be concerned about.

Reaction: Packers Struggle in Second Half, But Still Find Way to Beat Falcons

Last night's 43-37 win over the Falcons wasn't perfect, but still, it was a win. Here are my thoughts on it:

1. The Defense Struggled:

I'm not sure this will become a recurring problem, but it's definitely something to take note of. The Packers' defense looked awful yesterday, and that can't be a good sign with the postseason just around the corner. 

2. Starks Played Pretty Well:

Not as well as Lacy, but certainly solidly. Can't hurt anything if he keeps it up.

3. At the End of the Day, It Was Just a Monday Night:

Maybe the Packers just weren't used to not playing on Sunday. Who knows?

Leave your own takeaways below.

Packers Hang On and Beat The Falcons: 43-37

The Packers took a 31-7 halftime lead and the game looked over. Unfortunately no one told WR Julio Jones to go and start the bus. Here are some pictures from the first half when everything was awesome.

Check out some of the top photos from the first half. #ATLvsGB #MNF Full gallery: http://t.co/YjWUzgM6zZ pic.twitter.com/0yJcGWfGmh
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) December 9, 2014

So I know the Falcons defense stinks, but the Packers offense still took care of business against them. Even in the second half, when all the wheels were coming off, the Packers scored on three of their five possessions, they only punted once (and comically couldn't figure out how to line up properly because it was only like their 10th punt in the last 6 games), and they would have scored on their final possession except they ran out the clock instead. Eddie Lacy (who's hip injury doesn't seem serious) and James Starks torched the Falcons on the ground while Aaron Rodgers was almost perfect in the air. WR Randall Cobb didn't blow up the stat line, he only had a third of Jordy Nelson's 146 yards receiving, but he made some big 3rd down receptions in traffic. The offensive line was outstanding, again. The only blemish was some poor communication with rookie WR Davante Adams, who remains inconsistent as he adjusts to life in the NFL, and I would appreciate it if Rodgers slid more instead of taking some hits.

Should you worry about the defense? No more than you should have last week. This was the first game in which the defense got torched since their loss to the Saints (something about the NFC South). The defense has been inconsistent all season long, and the bad side of it showed up again on Monday night. The good news is that they only had two problems.

For the second week in a row, the defense struggled in the red zone but they did force the Falcons into going for it twice on 4th down near the goal line (they unfortunately scored touchdowns on both opportunities). As bad as it's looked, two weeks of red zone opportunities is a small sample size. This problem will probably go away on it's own.

The second problem was WR Julio Jones. He was a monster and the Packers had no answer for him until DE Datone Jones knocked him out of the game with a hip injury. It wasn't until they dusted off 4th CB Davon House that anyone stopped him.

Otherwise, the defense did what they had to do. The Falcons couldn't run the ball. Their next leading receiver after Jones was WR Roddy White who only had 42 yards receiving. A super star receiver went off on them (just as he did the week before against Pro Bowl CB Patrick Peterson). I'm sure they'll watch the film and make some corrections but getting toasted by a super star receiver in one game isn't going to de-rail their season.

And the defense is going to look like a bunch of rock stars over the next two weeks as they face up against two of the worst offenses in the NFL (the Bills and then the Bucs) on the road.

Maybe the Packers lost some of their Super Bowl inevitability mojo with this game. But the Packers and Seahawks are still the best two teams in the NFC. As long as the Packers keep winning and force Seattle to travel to Lambeau for a playoff game, they'll be in good shape. Even if they'd hung on for the blowout win, they wouldn't have gotten any style points. A win only counts as one win. The important thing to do is to keep on winning.

Falcons/Packers Final Prediction

My final prediction for tomorrow's Falcons/Packers game:

Score: Packers 55, Falcons 21

The Falcons are decent, but I don't think they have much of a chance in this one. The Packers haven't lost at home all year, and Atlanta just doesn't seem like they kind of team who'd stop that.

Why?

Because the Packers are a different team at Lambeau Field. On the road, they're okay, but at home, I'm 100% sure they can't be beaten. Last week's meeting with the Patriots seemingly proved that, as New England couldn't take the lead no matter how close they got.

Leave your thoughts bellow on how accurate you think mine are.

Packers Injury Updates: Shields Questionable, Perry Probable For Monday

Injuries probably won't affect how the Packers play that much Monday, but nonetheless, there's a few of them. Here they are, courtesy of ESPN Wisconsin's Jason Wilde.

Out – LB Jamari Lattimore (ankle), DE Luther Robinson (calf).

Questionable – CB Sam Shields (concussion),

Probable – DT Josh Boyd (knee), G T.J. Lang (ankle), LB Nick Perry (shoulder), G Josh Sitton (toe), DT Mike Daniels (back), G Lane Taylor (illness).

According to Wilde, Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy thinks Shields "still has a chance to play," and will if everything goes right.

If he can't, though, Davon House will be the one who takes his place, Wilde writes.

Masthay: This Has Been a Weird Year

Packers P Tim Masthay is beginning to notice that he's punted less (37 times) than anyone else in the league this season.

"This has been a weird, weird year, but particularly weird the past month for me and for our punt team," Masthay recently told The Green Bay Press-Gazette. "Minnesota, the game at Minnesota, was a fairly normal rhythm. We had four punts, and they were scattered throughout the game. At least in my time here, we've never been a team that's punted heavily, because we've always had a strong offense. So having four or five punts a game, scattered, that's kind of the normal."

Masthay has a point, as the Packers have had two games this year in which both they and their opponents never punted. Prior to this season, that had only ever happened once, proving its unusualness. 

Preview: Packers Host The First Place Falcons

I wouldn't have picked on the Falcons for being in first place despite a 5-7 record, but this picture I posted below already had it mentioned in the caption (without pointing out what a joke it is that they're in first place in the weak NFC South).

10 things the #Packers need to do to win Monday night's battle of first-place teams: http://t.co/OsJxtF1hRd pic.twitter.com/sfDn0KqTx2
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) December 5, 2014

The Falcons aren't quite as bad as their record would indicate. They've only been outscored by 8 points this season which would be more indicative of a .500 team. And they would be 7-5 or 6-6 if Mike Smith hadn't botched their clock management during close losses to the Lions and Browns. Atlanta has a terrible defense, currently ranked as the worst by Football Outsiders, but QB Matt Ryan is having a solid season, currently ranked No. 8 overall by FO, despite their lack of a rushing attack. They remind me a little of the Rodgers-less 8-7-1 2013 Packers that snuck into the playoffs through a weak NFC North.

They also came within a couple plays beating the Packers in Lambeau last December, eventually coming up short by one point, against many of the same players (though, obviously, QB Aaron Rodgers missed the game last season with a broken collarbone). They're also coming off a comfortable win over the Cardinals, who are currently ranked ahead of the Packers for the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. They could take this in and find a reason to believe they'll be competitive on Monday night.

However, the Packers are playing much better as a team this season, and with their win over the Patriots last week, they now have a strong case for being the best NFL team. That's almost the exact opposite from where the Packers were last December, when they needed a close win against the Falcons to snap a five game winless streak.

The only thing that kept the Packers from running up the score against the Patriots last week was their struggles in the red zone. Overall, they've been scoring touchdowns on 58% of their red zone trips this season, and they're not going 0-4 in the red zone against the Falcons. The score should be similar to recent victims at Lambeau (Bears, Eagles).

Packers 41, Falcons 14.

Packers Favorites to Win Super Bowl Going into Week 14

All that hard work is finally paying off.

The Packers' odds to win February's Super Bowl (7-2) this week, released by the popular online sportsbook Bovada, are the highest in the league, ESPN.com's Rob Demovsky has pointed out. This isn't a huge surprise considering the Packers just beat the previously-thought-to-be-best Patriots Sunday, but nonetheless, it's interesting.

The rest of the list's top eight:

1. Packers, 7-2

2. Patriots, 15-4

3. Broncos, 17-4

4. Seahawks, 13-2

5. Eagles, 12-1

6. Colts, 18-1

7. Lions, 25-1

8. Cardinals, 28-1

Anybody else have any thoughts? If so, please share them in the comments section.

Packers Listed as 13-Point Favorites for Monday's Falcons Game

The Packers have been listed as 13 point favorites for Monday's Falcons game.

The Packers have won eight of their last nine, and are a perfect 6-0 at home this season. The Falcons, meanwhile, are 3-1 in their last four, and 2-4 on the road.

Those two away victories came in Carolina and Tampa Bay, though, two relatively easy places to play. Therefore, it seems likely the Packers will come out on top in this one, especially considering they just beat the much-better Patriots Sunday.

Let's hope that observation's right, as the Packers need all the W's they can get right now if they want to finish #1 in the conference. 

Falcons Expect Roddy White to Play Monday

Falcons star WR Roddy White missed a couple of practices and a game last week, but now it appears he'll be fine come Monday.

Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith told ESPN.com yesterday White's anticipated to return this weekend when the Falcons visit the Packers at Lambeau Field, a contest which will likely have huge implications for both sides. The Packers are currently tied for the top spot in the NFC with the slumping Cardinals and red-hot Eagles, while the Falcons, despite being just 5-7, are looking to hang on to their lead in the south.

We'll see how much White's presence affects things when the competition kicks off, but keep in mind, the Falcons scored 28 points last week without him. Expect them to improve even more before making the trip to Green Bay, regardless of whether or not the scoreboard shows it.

McCarthy Praises Packers After Win Over Patriots: "This is the Most Consistent Team in My Years Here"

Yesterday's win over the Patriots wasn't perfect, but nonetheless, it improved the Packers' record to 9-3.

Mike McCarthy had this to say in response to that fact, courtesy of ESPN.com's Rob Demovsky.

"I think this is clearly our most consistent football team in my nine years here," McCarthy said. "Just from the fact that the way they prepare, you don't have a bunch of personalities that go up and down. It's a very focused, disciplined group." 

The victory was McCarthy's 97th as the head coach of the Packers, the third most in franchise history. Vince Lombardi is second on that list with 98, so it's very likely McCarthy will pass him by the end of the year. 

And really, he should, as the Packers remaining games take place against relatively-beatable opponents in the Falcons, Buccaneers, Bills and Lions. 

Reaction: Packers Hang on Versus Patriots for Fourth Straight Win

It wasn't as pretty as I thought it would be, but I'll take it. Here are my takeways from yesterday's win:

1. The Packers Are Actually Stoppable At Home:

At least kind of. They still emerged victorious, but it wasn't like they did it easily. Say goodbye to games like the ones against the Bears and Eagles, I guess.

2. McCarthy Almost Blew it Again:

Seriously, he's gotta work on getting the last first down late. For the second week in a row, he almost found a way to go three and out with Green Bay up by less than a touchdown in the final minutes, but again, he was bailed out by a nice play. Last week it was Eddie Lacy who made it, this week it was Randall Cobb. Thank you for that.

3. We Can Expect This Winning Streak To Continue:

The Falcons won't beat the Packers on Monday Night Football next week. Enough said (?).

Leave your thoughts below.

"It Was A Huge Game" Packers Beat Patriots 26-21

The quote above was from Green Bay Packers S Micah Hyde confessing that he wasn't being honest earlier in the week when he said this was just another game. This was a special game but the Packers didn't win it in the way I was expecting.

#Packers defense comes through in the clutch. Read: http://t.co/7rQXXR7wkt pic.twitter.com/QTahpVcwMm
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) December 1, 2014

I guess I shouldn't complain, but I was surprised that the Patriots didn't run the ball more often. They were productive (4.7 yards per carry) but only called 17 running plays to 37 passing plays. If they had run it more, then maybe they would have done better with time of possession (23:25 to 36:35) but the Patriots also struggled at getting their defense off the field (the Packers were 10 for 17 on 3rd downs). The best way to stop Tom Brady is to keep him on the sidelines, and both the Packer offense and defense did their parts to make it happen.

The Packers dominated this game when it was being played within the 20 yard lines. When the Patriots moved their offense into the red zone, they scored touchdowns on their first three trips. It wasn't until late in the game when the rush got to Brady for the sack (picture above) on third down to end their final red zone trip with a missed field goal opportunity. On the other hand, the Packers kept settling for field goals in the red zone (both touchdowns were on 32+ yard passes). It's a credit to the Patriots for making plays near the end zone that kept them in this game, but this game wasn't as close as the score made it seem.

On offense, it was a complete team effort. Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb ended up playing key roles, but when they were shut down early, Eddie Lacy, Davante Adams and Richard Rodgers stepped up in their place. The offensive line had a few break downs against the pass, and a few more against the run, but they also gave Aaron Rodgers all day to throw on several plays and opened some huge running lanes for Lacy.

On defense, I knew they would have to do something at inside linebacker in place of A.J. Hawk and for the times when Clay Matthews would move outside, I thought they might go back to Brad Jones, but instead they gave Sam Barrington an expanded role. It wasn't an MVP game, but he made some plays (1 pass defense, 1 QB hit) from a position where they really needed an upgrade. It wasn't a flawless performance for the defense either, Tramon Williams and Davon House had some forgetable moments in coverage, but Williams also led the team with nine tackles and Mike Daniels was huge (3 QB hits and the sack in the picture above). It was a very good game against an offense that's been on a tear in recent weeks.

With the Lions beating the Bears on Thanksgiving, it was important to win and keep the NFC North lead. They shouldn't have much trouble with the Falcons next week (if the game was in Atlanta, it might be a dangerous trap game, but a dome team isn't winning in Green Bay in December) before two potential road trap games at Buffalo and at Tampa. If you don't believe in the danger of either of those games, I'll point out a December 2011 loss at Kansas City as a recent trap game that caught an unbeaten Packer team. Their final home game on December 28th is against the Lions and its still looming as the one to decide who wins the NFC North and potentially secure the top seed in the playoffs.

Patriots/Packers Final Prediction

My final prediction for today's Patriots/Packers game:

Score: Packers 38, Patriots 27

I don't expect there to be much defense in this one, but the Packers will still probably win.

Why?

Basically just because of the home field advantage. I know that's kind of an akward reason, but I think we can all agree that if this contest was in New England instead, we'd see things a lot differently. 

Hopefully I'm right about that, but then again, the Patriots are still good. I wouldn't be shocked if they found a way to come out on top, as much as I don't like to admit so.

Preview: Patriots at Green Bay Packers

It could be below freezing at game time but all the snow it going to be cleared away. Even for QB Aaron Rodgers, the extreme cold takes away some of his accuracy.

Shovelers currently getting @LambeauField ready for #Packers gameday. Live cam: http://t.co/izC6Kryk5G @Ariens pic.twitter.com/LrwlBvt7bh
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 29, 2014

While Football Outsiders has currently ranked these two teams overall as the No. 2 and No. 3 teams, I'm expecting one of them to establish themselves and take control of the game. As good as the Patriots have been playing lately, the Packers have been playing great football too. Either one of them could emerge, and both teams have the offensive firepower to stage a comeback. No lead will be safe.

When I've had doubts about the Packers this season, they've usually shown up with a dominant game and proved me wrong. But I do see two particular problems with the Patriots.

Rob Gronkowski. Don't spend too much time reading the articles on how to cover him. The short answer is that's nearly impossible. The guys who can run with him are too small and the guys with size can't keep up. The Patriots have had a lot of trouble in pass protection this season, though they've been playing better in recent weeks. The best way to stop Gronkowski is to pressure Tom Brady. The Packers will need big games from their top pass rushers: Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers and Mike Daniels.

Jonas Gray/LaGarrette Blount. Actually, any running back who steps onto the field for the Patriots. Their run game hasn't been that effective this season (ranked No. 20 by Football Outsiders) but they lined up RB Jonas Gray and a sixth offensive lineman early and often against the Colts and ran it down their throat. The Packer run defense has been better lately as some teams haven't had the luxury of being able to run the ball while getting blown out (Bears, Eagles) but I don't take that as a sign that they've solved their run defense problems. It can't hurt to have Clay Matthews at inside linebacker, but they need him to line up outside and rush the quarterback too. I don't have any faith in their run defense to get a stop.

I have no prediction because this game could go either way, but the Patriots have a couple of edges that the Packers don't seem to have. However, the one major edge the Packers have is home field advantage, which cannot be taken lightly. I'd lean Patriots on a neutral field, but their two losses this season came on the road and the Packers are a completely different team at home and that's why they'll win on Sunday.

Packers Injury Updates: Adams, Bostick Probable for Patriots Game

Some Packers injury updates for Sunday's game against the Patriots, courtesy of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel:

• OLB Nick Perry (shoulder) questionable
• WR Davante Adams (heel) probable 
• CB Jarrett Bush (groin) questionable 
• RG T.J. Lang (ankle) probable
• LG Josh Sitton (toe) probable
• TE Brandon Bostick (hip) probable

Speaking to the media today, team Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Perry is "making progress", and that more information on him will come tomorrow.

Perry has 12 tackles this season, the third of his career. He had 20 all of last year, so a good last five games could certainly give him a new personal best. 

Cobb: Packers and I May Negotiate New Contract During Season

While it's been the popular opinion all year that the Packers and Randall Cobb won't negotiate an extention until the season ends, the latter has come out and said otherwise.

"I think that [the Packers and my agent] could have conversations right now," Cobb recently told Cheesehead TV. "That's on them. That's the business side. He can handle all that. I've told him, hopefully things work out for the best, and I would love to stay here next year and be a part of this organization. But it's a business, and I understand that, and it works both ways. At the end of the day, (I) just have to make the decision that I feel is best for me, and the team is going make the decision that they feel is best for the team."

Cobb is scheduled to be a free agent this offseason, but considering the way the Packers have treated Aaron Rodgers, Clay Mattews, and Jordy Nelson recently, it seems unlikely he'll leave them. 

Let's hope that observation is right.

Packers Listed as 3-Point Favorites For Sunday's Patriots Game

The Packers have been listed as three point favorites for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

The Packers have won seven of their last eight after starting the season 1-2, including their last two contests at Lambeau by 30+. However, last week in Minnesota they didn't look too great, limping their way to a 24-21 victory. 

The Patriots, meanwhile, have a similar story. beginning the year roughly before going on a hot streak. They're currently 9-2 after being 2-2, and are 3-2 on the road.

Nonetheless, since the Packers are the ones with the home field advantage here it seems more likely they'll find a way come out on top, as tough as New England is.

Predicting What the NFC Playoff Picture Will Look Like With Five Games to Go

Why not? Let's guess what things will look like:

1. NFC North:

The Packers clearly have control of the North right now, having a winnable five games ahead of them. The Patriots may give them problems, as is the case with the Buccaneers and Bills (the two road teams they still have to play), but nonetheless, I expect them to eventually come out on top with a 13-3 record, beating the Lions in Week 17.

2. NFC South:

This division's terrible, with the Saints and Falcons currently leading it at 4-7 each. 

Still, since somebody has to win it I'll take the Saints at 8-8, as they seem to have the easier schedule.

3. NFC East: 

I'd like to see the Eagles take this one, but as long as Mark Sanchez is starting against the Seahawks, it just doesn't seem likely. Expect the Cowboys to claim it at 12-4.

4. NFC West:

The West will go down to the wire, but in the end, I see the 12-4 Cardinals emerging as its champs. The 49ers will be right behind them at 11-5, while Seattle will fall to 9-7.

Wild Card Teams

The Eagles, Lions, and 49ers will all be 11-5, so two of those three. I'm not sure exactly how they would decide that, so I'll just leave it there.

Leave your thoughts below.

The Ongoing Musical Chairs At Linebacker

The linebacker core is the one unit that always seems to be undergoing some sort of shuffle. While Julius Peppers and Clay Matthews have excelled this season, it's been terrible times for Brad Jones, Mike Neal and A.J. Hawk.

Top photos from Sunday's #Packers win: http://t.co/YLxg3qvMq9 pic.twitter.com/ZD6nlgNeiB
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 24, 2014

In my recap of the win over the Vikings, I wrote that it was a quiet game for Matthews, who seemed a step slow as he played and practices through a groin injury. It looks like he's feeling better now, but in case his groin injury remains a problem, they'll need DE Mike Daniels and Peppers to make plays against the Patriots.

According to the ESPN playing time breakdown, rookie Jayrone Elliott was given some meaningful snaps for only the second time this season, without making much of an impact one way or another. Unfortunately he was only taking away snaps from Matthews outside, as Neal played as many snaps (59) as he's played in any game this season and received his worst game grade of the season from Pro Football Focus. Hopefully Nick Perry feels better this week and can take away snaps from Neal.

It was interesting that Brad Jones played his first meaningful snaps (13) on defense since a terrible performance against the Dolphins a few weeks ago. Against the Vikings, he received a slight positive grade from Pro Football Focus, which is a massive improvement for him. I'm not expecting too much from Hawk, but he's looking slow in coverage against the tight end, and it's forced them to reconsider Jones, who has the potential to be their best linebacker in coverage though he's been awful this season. The Patriots rely heavily on their tight ends and the Vikings game might be a prelude to a bigger role for Jones next week.

Rodgers Admits He Didn't Mean to Throw Unusual Touchdown Pass to Richard

The unusual touchdown one-yard touchdown pass Packers QB Aaron Rodgers threw to TE Richard Rodgers might've been cool, but that doesn't mean it was intentional.

Aaron admitted so to the Green Bay Press-Gazette yesterday.

"Well, that was a little bit of freestyle, if you will," he said. "The play is not designed that way. It's a play-action with (Andrew Quarless) as the first look in the right flat and there's only two guys in the route. Richie is the other option."

That's too bad, as it's fun to think that something like that could be on purpose. 

Still, the play was pretty unique, as the ball is said to have traveled 39.4 yards through the air on it.

Recap: Packers Hold Against The Vikings, 24-21

It was a very close game but the Green Bay Packers never trailed either. The best the Vikings could do was hang around. It never felt like the game got away from them.

#Packers improved to 8-3 overall & 4-1 in the division with today's win. Complete coverage: http://t.co/6PcjzkVDDO pic.twitter.com/4QLkJFAQ5t
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 24, 2014

The Vikings had a good game plan on defense. Their safeties played deep which allowed their cornerbacks to play tight coverage all over the field, knowing they'd have safety help deep if they got in trouble. It did leave them vulnerable against the run. Despite RB Eddie Lacy's illness, he was effective rushing for 5 yards per carry and dangerous as a playmaker who scored two touchdowns. They weren't able to get a lot of pressure on QB Aaron Rodgers either, who had an efficient game with a high completion percentage and no turnovers. It wasn't one for the highlight reel, since the Vikings did their best to take the deep passing game away, but he did took what the defense was giving him.

On offense, it was another game to learn from for LT David Bakhtiari, who struggled against DE Everson Griffen (as many have this season) and it also was a learning experience for WR Davante Adams, who isn't always on the same page as Aaron Rodgers. The Packers struggled early when Lacy wasn't as effective on the ground and WR Jordy Nelson was battling the Vikings's physical corners, so they might have sustained more drives if Adams could have gotten himself more involved in the passing game.

QB Teddy Bridgewater struggled badly with accuracy early on but he was able to sustain two long first half scoring drives with an effective running game (mostly when he scrambled) and some costly penalties. The Packers had been averaging 5 to 6 penalties per game this season, but they had eight in this one, including a costly hold by Micah Hyde that negated an INT. It was a quiet game for both Julius Peppers and Clay Matthews (no sacks, one QB hit for Matthews) though the Vikings struggled in pass protection the previous week against the Bears. Hyde ended up redeeming himself with a sack and an INT later in the game, and they needed that because he was the only stand out playmaker against the Vikings on defense.

I'd worry about a performance like this with the Patriots coming up next week, but the Packers are a different team at home this season. Just as the giant blowouts at Lambeau only count for one win, the same can be said for the close road victories. This one pushed them into the NFC North lead and the No. 2 seed for the playoffs (and the one seed moved closer because of Arizona's loss in Seattle). This was a very good weekend to give them some momentum before they face one of the best teams in the NFL next week.

Reaction: Packers Road Struggles Continue vs. Vikings, But They Still Win

The Packers didn't play that well today in Minnesota, but still, they won 24-21. Here are my takeaways from it:

1. Road Struggles:

They're not an illusion. This team is just not the same outside of Lambeau, and they need to fix that.

2. Eddie Lacy Can Make Big Plays:

On the last drive of this one, Lacy carried the ball five times in a row, and picked up the necessary two first downs to run out the clock. Not bad.

3. First Place:

With this and the Lions' 34-9 loss to the Patriots, the Packers are in sole possession of the top spot in the North for the first time this season. Finally.

On to the Patriots. 

Packers/Vikings Final Prediction

My prediction for tomorrow's Packers/Vikings game.

Score: Packers 34, Vikings 17

I've learned my lesson here. The Packers are better than good, and will play as such. They might not necessarily win by 30, but still, this one won't be close.

Why?

Because the Vikings just aren't a proven offensive threat. Since the Packers defense tends to struggle on the road, I wouldn't be surprise if they puts up 21+, but that still doesn't mean they'll win. The Packers will score at least 35, and that's being generous.

Leave your thoughts below on how accurate you think mine are.

Packers OL Tretter Fined $16,537 For Leg Whip Vs. Eagles

Packers Offensive Lineman J.C. Tretter has been fined $16,537 by the league for his leg whip late in Sunday's game against the Eagles, The Green Bay Press-Gazette's Weston Hodkiewicz reports.

Tretter swung his leg at Eagles LB Trent Cole with four minutes left to play Sunday after apparently missing a cut block. The move knocked Cole over, and drew a 15-yard penalty for unecessary roughness.

However, the league doesn't seem to think that that punishment was enough, taking away 56.8% of Tretter's weekly salary. Tretter, though, is expected to appeal.

This is the second time this season a Packer has been fined for an in-game incident. The first came back in Week 2, when Andrew Quarless was punished for grabbing the face of the Jets' Sheldon Richardson. 

Matthews: I'll Play Without Limitations Sunday

Packers LB Clay Matthews said that the groin injury that's limited him in practice this week shouldn't affect his involvement Sunday.

"I was a little sore after the game in regards to the injury with my groin and everything," Matthews told The Green Bay Press-Gazette today. "I was able to do a lot more today than I was yesterday and obviously we don't work on Friday, that's our rehab day. I feel good. So, I don't think there were will be any limitations going into this weekend."

Hopefully that statement is true, as Matthews has collected 13 tackles and two sacks in the team's last two games. He's also recorded three assists, helping the Packers stay undefeated at home.

What Should The Packers Expect From Teddy Bridgewater?

According to Football Outsiders, the Vikings offense is currently ranked No. 29 overall, which probably would be a whole lot worse if you pro-rated out an entire season's worth of QB Christian Ponder's performance for the Vikings in Lambeau back on October 2nd. QB Teddy Bridgewater has played in seven games this season, but this will be his first start against the Packers.

Bridgewater’s debut bout with Green Bay. Storylines that you HAVE to follow: http://t.co/Tcc7OC3VVJ pic.twitter.com/tVgdSZhWMZ
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 19, 2014

According to ESPN's QBR, Bridgewater's ranking for the season is a bad 40.9 but (not surprising from a rookie) he's been very inconsistent. He was very good in three games this season (Falcons, Buccaneers, and Team From Washington) and very bad in three others (Lions, Bills, Bears) with his game against the Saints in the middle. It's probably no coincidence that his three good games came against three of the four worst pass defenses according to Football Outsiders, though he stank last week against the Bears's 28th ranked unit.

The big problem for Bridgewater is that he's been struggling in the deep passing games. He missed a couple of potential big plays against the Team From Washington. It doesn't help him that the Vikings had to go with a conservative attack against the Bears last week because they can't pass block. It wasn't until former Packer draft choice WR Charles Johnson got active in the second half did Bridgewater get his wide receivers involved in the game plan at all. A short passing attack, which might be necessary if Clay Matthews is constantly running unblocked around the left tackle, isn't going to get it done against the Packers. Ponder averaged only 5.0 yards per attempt in their last meeting and it led to blowout.

The Vikings do have an effective running attack (Matt Asiata averaged 4.8 yards per attempt in their last meeting, with one fumble) but injuries to Asiata and Jerick McKinnon have forced them to claim Ben Tate from waivers as they search for a healthy body at running back. And Tate's been awful, averaging 2.2 yards per carry over the past few weeks for the Browns. I don't expect Dom Capers will show any sign of respect to their running game unless the Vikings can prove it's deserved. So there should be even more pressure on Bridgewater to move the ball through the air while the Packers are lining up an extra back or two in coverage.

Bridgewater might be fortunate to lead the Vikings on a meaningful scoring drive or two before the fourth quarter rolls around and it's Matt Flynn time. Even if that happens, Bridgewater hasn't shown the ability to lead the Vikings in a shoot out against a non-awful defense at any time this season.

Packers Listed as 9 1/2 Point Favorites for Sunday's Vikings Game

The Packers have been listed as 9 1/2 point favorites for Sunday's game at the Vikings.

The Packers have won six of their last seven, including each of their last two by 30+. However, they are just 2-3 on the road this season, with that pair of victories coming over the Dolphins and Bears.

The Vikings, meanwhile, have gone 4-6 this year, and 2-2 at home. They were blown out by the Packers at Lambeau 42-10 back in Week 5, but didn't have Teddy Bridgewater available to start that  contest.

Nonetheless, it's still unlikely that they'll find a way to come out on top this time around, regardless of how interesting Bridgewater may make things.

Packers Work Out Former Giants TE Travis Beckum

The Packers have worked out former Giants TE Travis Beckum, ESPN.com's Rob Demosky reports. 

Beckum, a native of Milwaukee and graduate of the University of Wisconsin, hasn't appeared in a meaningful game since Super Bowl XLVII, a contest in which he tore his ACL. That injury caused Beckum to miss all of 2013, before he hitched a ride with the Saints this past preseason.

Since then, Beckum has also worked out for the Bears and Jaguars. With the Packers, he'll look to get a job as their third-stringer, a role they need to fill right now due to the wound Brandon Bostick suffered in Week 10.

Rodgers Assures Media After Victory Over Eagles: "This Isn't Easy"

Many would agree, though, you make it seem so.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers told the media after yesterday's 53-20 blowout of the Eagles that what he and the team are doing right now isn't easy.

"This is not easy," he assured the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. "This is a tough job. A lot of preparation goes into it, a lot of guys working together. It takes all 11."

Be that as it may, Rodgers is clearly one of the more important ones on the field. In Green Bay's last two games alone, he's thrown 9 TD and 0 INT, helping the Pack out-score their opponents 108-34.

Basically, the stats don't appear to support his modesty here, as necessary as it is.

Recap: Packers Rout Eagles 53 to 20

I was expecting a tougher game from the Eagles, but the Packers brought their "A game" while the Eagles must have left it back in Philly.

Full highlights from today's #Packers win, including this impressive Eddie Lacy TD: http://t.co/FEnmKzzCO5 #PHIvsGB pic.twitter.com/2Iybqa4i6Y
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 17, 2014

This two game stretch, with blowout wins against the Bears and Eagles, reminds me of the 2010 season (Super Bowl year!) when the Packers crushed the Cowboys and Vikings in consecutive home games and both teams fired their head coaches after the game (Wade Phillips and Brad Childress). Though I think Chip Kelly is safe (I'm not sure about Trestman).

I thought the Eagles would have some success, as I wrongly thought about the Bears too, pressuring QB Aaron Rodgers up the middle. Though LG Josh Sitton and RG T.J. Lang are unable to practice with their toe and ankle injuries, they're showing no signs of pain during the game. The Eagles couldn't get any pressure on him and their cornerbacks couldn't cover the Packers's receivers in single coverage. Aaron Rodgers is proving that when he has time to throw and his receivers are getting a step ahead of their defenders, he's unstoppable.

The move of Clay Matthews inside has seemed to rejuvenated him, though some of his biggest plays actually came when he was lined up outside. Instead of crashing down the line on one running play, he read the QB rollout for a sack, and forced a field goal attempt. On another play, he read Mark Sanchez on a pass out to the left flat and knocked it down even though Sanchez tried a pump fake. Matthews hadn't been making big plays like those earlier this season. Adding the true Claymaker to Julius Peppers's great season, along with their play making cornerbacks (Tramon Williams and Casey Hayward), has helped turn an inconsistent defense into a dominate unit over the past two weeks. Lets hope they can keep it up.

The Packers host three division leaders in their last three home games (Patriots, Lions and Falcons-I know the Falcons suck, but they lead their division) and I expect the Packers to be favored in all of those games. The Patriots are certainly capable of matching the Packers toe-to-toe, but that's the least important of these anyway since an AFC match-up has no bearing on playoff tiebreakers. On the road, where the Packers have struggled this year, they'll face three teams unlikely to make the playoffs (Vikings, Bills and Buccaneers). It's a manageable schedule and they'll be favored in all of those games.

The Packers pushed themselves into the discussion of whether they're the best team in the NFL, but more importantly they've moved themselves into a playoff spot because of Seattle's loss in Kansas City. With a 7-3 record in hand, a manageable upcoming schedule has made their path to the playoffs clear.

Reaction: Packers Blowout Eagles to Move into First Place Tie

The Packers walked all over the Eagles 53-20 today in a fashion most probably didn't see coming. Here are my takeaways from it:

1. The Packers are the best team in the North:

After today, that seems clear enough. I know Mark Sanchez was starting, but wow, 53 points.

2. Mason Crosby:

I know the Packers won here by 33, but that doesn't mean Crosby looked particularly sharp. He barely made two short attempts, missed a usually-automatic 50-yarder, and had an extra point blocked. Might be something to think about.

3. Now the Road:

If this team is as elite as they seem, they'll do this same thing next week in Minnesota. Just getting a close victory would prove they're only good at home.

Leave your thoughts below.

Eagles/Packers Final Prediction

My final prediction for tomorrow's Packers/Eagles game:

Score: Packers 31, Eagles 21

I've liked Mark Sanchez' play in recent weeks, but since the contest's still at Lambeau I just can't see his team winning. I think they'll make it close, but in the end, the Packers will end up emerging victorious for the second week in a row. 

Why?

Because Aaron Rodgers has been great lately and the defense has shown a lot of improvement. I expect Clay Matthews to record at least one sack, and for Green Bay to intercept at least one pass. Again, this one'll be close, but I just can't see the Packers suddenly losing on their home field.

Leave your thoughts below on how accurate you think mine are.

Forecast Predicts 30% Chance of Snow For Sunday's Game

Weather.com is reporting that there is a 30% chance of snow for Sunday's Packers/Eagles game. 

As for the temperature, the site also said that Green Bay's high for the day is just 29 degrees, while the low is 16. 15-mile-per-hour winds are also expected around kickoff, which was moved from noon to 3:25 earlier this month. 

In other words, it will be pretty cold during the contest, so make sure to wear plenty of layers if you're going. You don't want to be at Lambeau when it's freezing out, regardless of how much the Packers are winning.

Preview: Packers Host The Eagles On Sunday

If you've forgotten last season's game when the Packers hosted the Eagles, it's probably for the best. The Packers lost 27-13 and it never felt like they had a chance to win. It was the first career start for QB Scott Tolzien, who looked OK but struggled to maintain drives (obviously, this won't be a problem on Sunday) and it was one of QB Nick Foles's near perfect starts that he had in his magical 2013 season (which isn't going to happen again either since he's out with a broken collarbone).

How important is #PHIvsGB for both teams? Read: http://t.co/l0omIlxFlu pic.twitter.com/8xfOYOb4Tx
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 14, 2014

I feel like the Eagles are distracting the entire NFL with their shiny Chip Kelly led offense, when the truth is that their offense hasn't been very good this season. QB Mark Sanchez is probably a down grade from Foles (not by much) but their big problem this season has been the injuries/suspensions on their offensive line, which shouldn't be a problem for them on Sunday. Though Todd Herremans is out for the season, the other four-fifths of their starting offensive line have returned. But they aren't back to their 2013 season form; Jason Kelce didn't think they were clicking yet last week against the Panthers. Overall their offense is ranked No. 17 this season by Football Outsiders. Sanchez only completed 54% of his passes and RB LeSean McCoy only ran for 19 yards last week against the Panthers. The Packers's defense will have some success against them.

The strength of the Eagles is their defense, which is ranked No. 6 overall by Football Outsiders and is excellent against the run and pass. Their defensive unit is playing about as well as the Seahawks this season, and the Packers had little success against them in Week 1 (though they also had to rely on RT Derek Sherrod in that game, which was a bad idea). The Packers's offense has been playing better in recent weeks, but it's something to be concerned about if they can't run the ball and the Eagles can pressure QB Aaron Rodgers.

The breakout star for the Eagles this season might be their special teams. RB Darren Sproles is having a monster year as a returner, and overall their unit is clearly the best one in the NFL this season. The Packers are about average, ranked No. 15 overall by Football Outsiders, but they're not very good on kick and punt returns, and they just allowed a kickoff return for a touchdown last week. Maybe that touchdown return was a lapse because it was near the end of a blowout against the Bears, but this will be a major concern against the Eagles.

It's taken me a while to settle on a score, but if the Eagles don't commit to shutting down WR Jordy Nelson and Sanchez helps out with a turnover or two, the Packers should win by a score of something like 31-24.

Rodgers: My Back Feels Tight From Standing Around So Much Sunday

Aaron Rodgers doesn't seem to want the Bears to feel any better.

He showed so during his Milwaukee radio show earlier this week, when he claimed that he stood around so much during Sunday's victory that his back is actually stiff right now. It's a safe bet Rodgers is just joking here, but nonetheless, this story is interesting.

Here's Rodgers' quote, courtesy of ESPN.com's Rob Demovsky:

"My low back was actually hurting…I think I attributed that to standing around the entire time as the second half went on, not [from] anything that happened on the field…The guys took really good care of me on the field. I barely got touched all game, but my back actually got a little tight on the sideline…I forgot what a strain that can be to stand there and watch."

Packers Listed as 6 Point Favorites for Sunday's Eagles Game

The Packers have been listed as six point favorites for Sunday's Eagles game.

The Packers are coming off Sunday's 41-point blowout of the Bears, and currently sit at a perfect 4-0 at home. The Eagles, meanwhile, are 2-2 on the road. 

Green Bay was seven point favorites for last week's game against Chicago, making this line a little strange. The Eagles have too been playing well lately, beating up the Panthers Monday despite having to start Mark Sanchez.

Sanchez is also expected to play this week, something that should give the Pack the advantage if their defense can dominate again.

Jordy Nelson Is Number One, But Spreading The Ball Around Has Made The Packers Offense Better

Sam Monson has written the definitive post about the Green Bay Packers first game with Clay Matthews at inside linebacker (don't call him an inside linebacker!) and should be read by anyone interested in his new position/role on defense.

Another interesting point raised this week was that QB Aaron Rodgers threw two of his six touchdown passes against the Bears to tight ends, which doubled the number of touchdown passes thrown to tight ends this season. He has been throwing more passes in general to TEs Andrew Quarless and Richard Rodgers in recent weeks and he's been spreading the ball around to the benefit of the offense.

Below are the number of targets to their top receivers so far this season, pro-rated out to 16 games in the next column, and compared to the number of times each player was targeted in 2013.

Receiver	2014 Targets	2014 Projected	2013 Targets
Nelson	84	149	126
Cobb	60	107	46
Lacy	30	53	44
Adams	37	66	0
Quarless	27	48	54
Richard Rodgers	14	25	0
Jones	0	0	93
Boykin	8	14	82
Finley	0	0	34

One interesting note is that overall the Packers haven't run as many offensive plays this season. So when you combine the projected number of targets to Quarless and Rodgers (73) and compare that to the total targets in 2013 to Quarless and Jermichael Finley (88), it's down but overall the number of plays are down anyway.

The number of pass attempts to Eddie Lacy is up slightly, and passes that last year went to James Jones and Jarrett Boykin (so much for his breakout season) have gone to a healthy Randall Cobb and rookie Davante Adams, though not as many. However, the one player that jumps out is Jordy Nelson.

Watch all the big plays from last night's win, including this impressive Jordy Nelson TD: http://t.co/NUr8sZxDhj pic.twitter.com/c8iaJEkRG4
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 10, 2014

29% of all pass attempts have been targeted at Nelson, which leads the team by a wide margin. Early in the season, Nelson was targeted 40% of the time, so he's actually been less featured in recent weeks. He's also had to play against two teams (Lions and Saints) who were very determined to shut him down with double coverage.

Whatever they're doing this season its working in the passing game, Aaron Rodgers moved ahead of Peyton Manning in ESPN's QBR this week, so this is not a complaint. I'm just tracking how the passing game is being used as the season goes on.

Packers to Wear Throwback Uniforms Sunday

The Packers will wear throwback uniforms in Sunday's game against the Eagles, The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's Tyler Dunne reports.

The jerseys, which are navy blue with a yellow circle in the center containing the player's number, will be accompanied by an all-yellow helmet. The Packers also wore those last year when they blew out the Browns in Jermichael Finley's infamous neck injury contest.  

In previous seasons, though, the Packers have usually stuck with the brown ones pictured above, which are meant to simulate old leather helmets. As Dunne notes, they first dawned the set in a 2010 meeting with the 49ers. 

Packers ST Coordinator Slocum: Boykin's "Forced Fumble" A Blocked Punt in My Opinion

Packers Special Teams Coordinator Shawn Slocum thinks Jarret Boykin's forced fumble from yesterday should've been considered a blocked punt.

The unusual play featured Boykin somehow kicking the ball before Bears' Punter Pat O'Donnell did, resulting in a turnover. Boykin never touched it with his hands, technically taking the block factor out of his effort.

Nonetheless, Slocum isn't having it. Here's his full quote, courtesy of ESPN.com's Rob Demovsky:

"In my opinion, it's a blocked punt. We're moving forward. Whatever they want to do statistically, they can do. We'll go in the room Wednesday and say, 'Great job on the blocked punt, now let's get ready for the Eagles.'" 

Reaction: Packers Blowout Bears in Week 10

My thoughts after watching the Packers blowout the Bears yesterday:

1. Aaron Rodgers is a Legitimate MVP Candidate: 

Not many people seem to want to admit it, but it's perfectly clear. Rodgers is having another great year right now, and at the very least he deserves to be considered for the honor.

2. The Bears aren't Turning Their Season Around:

Not that I wanted them them to, but yeah, they're done at this point. They're just not good enough.

3. Playing at Lambeau Will Win the Packers the Division By the End of the Year:

It might not be easy, but nonetheless, it looks bound to happen. 

Let's hope I'm right.

Packers Easily Defeat The Bears: 55-14

If it wasn't clear before the Green Bay Packers crushed the Bears at Lambeau, the Packers are a lot better at home than on the road this season. Since they got off to a slow start in their home opener against the Jets, they've dominated their visiting opponents. Though they've also played four home games against four teams who probably won't make the playoffs (Jets, Vikings, Panthers, Bears). They'll get a test of their home field dominance next Sunday when the Eagles come to Lambeau.

It's also clear that teams who don't double cover WR Jordy Nelson (or cover him at all in the Bears' case) are going to lose. The Lions and Saints put a safety over the top and a corner underneath of him for most of their two games and they held him to his lowest performances of the season (59 and 25 yards, respectively, and no touchdowns). The best way to beat the Packers is to take Nelson out of the game and put as much pressure on QB Aaron Rodgers as you can, and the Bears didn't come close to accomplishing either of those tasks on Sunday night.

FINAL: #Packers improve to 6-3 with a 55-14 victory over the #Bears. #CHIvsGB pic.twitter.com/YMELnAhFl6
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 10, 2014

They have to keep pace with the Cowboys, Seahawks, and Lions, and that is what they did with the win. It'd be nice if one of those teams would slip up and open up a playoff spot for the Packers right now, but if they keep winning, it will happen eventually.

The major analysis has to be the decision to move LB Clay Matthews to inside linebacker (though he did line up outside as a pass rusher on several obvious passing downs). This is a really good idea and it worked very well in Game One of the experiment (he led the team in tackles and had a sack).

Ideally, this is not what I had in mind this season. Ideally, Clay circa 2010-2012 would be on the outside and GM Ted Thompson would have drafted another inside linebacker who is like Desmond Bishop circa 2010-2011 to play alongside him.

Moving Matthews inside, letting him watch the play develop in front of him instead of having him guess (usually incorrectly this season) at the line of scrimmage, should take advantage of his relentless pursuit while not running him out of the play altogether. He's good at dropping back into coverage and he can run sideline to sideline. He should be a very good inside linebacker and they'll still be using him occasionally as an outside rusher and inside blitzer.

This hopefully means more playing time for LB Nick Perry, who's been having a good 2014 season with limited snaps. Replacing one of the disappointing inside linebackers (Brad Jones, Jamari Lattimore) with Mike Neal isn't a big help (Neal's provided next to nothing as a pass rusher), but more snaps for Perry alongside Matthews would effectively replace his 2014 performance while solving their problems on the inside.

This was a really great game for the Packers and a historically bad one for the Bears (the 1923 Rochester Jeffersons?) but it only counts as one win. Now they'll immediately have to start looking ahead to the Eagles.

Bears/Packers Final Prediction

My prediction for tomorrow's Bears/Packers game:

Score: Packers 38, Bears 14

I see this contest going the same way as the Panthers one did a few weeks ago. The Packers will get off to a quick start, pull away early, and then put Matt Flynn in for the fourth the quarter. In the end, the Bears will get a little closer due to Aaron Rodgers' abscence, but still, they'll lose by a lot.

Why?

Because the Packers are simply the better team here. In recent weeks, Jay Cutler has really struggled, while Rodgers, with the exception of the Saints' game, has excelled. I think we can all agree that makes for an obvious advantage for the home team.

Leave your thoughts below on how accurate you think mine are.

Rodgers Expected to Play Sunday

The Packers expect team QB Aaron Rodgers to play in Sunday's game against the Bears, ESPN Wisconsin's Jason Wilde reports.

Rodgers apparently did "everything" in Green Bay's practice Monday, Head Coach Mike McCarthy told Wilde. 

McCarthy then said today that Rodgers, whose Pack currently sit at a somewhat mediocre 5-3, feels good and is ready to go.

The 30 year-old three-time division champion suffered a hamstring injury in Week 8's loss in New Orleans. It has not been made known whether he would've been able to take the field with it if the Packers had had a game last weekend.

Cutler Offers Bad Explanation When Asked Why He Struggles Against Packers

Bears QB Jay Cutler doesn't seem to want to talk about his struggles against the Packers.

He showed so earlier today, telling ESPN.com's Michael C. Wright this when whether a common denominator has contributed to his 1-10 career record against his team's rival.

"Different coordinators, different teams," Cutler said. "It’s different circumstances every time." 

Yes, Cutler, that must be the problem. Sure, there's some things that are always changing, but others, like maybe the quarterback, usually aren't.

Basically Cutler, you've got to take some responsibility here. It looks bad when you try to downplay your role in divisional losses.