Make it 4-0
The Packers remain in the driver's seat in the NFC North. Atari Bigby sealed the 23-16 win over Minnesota by intercepting Kelly Holcomb with 1:06 to play. Charles Woodson was defending Bobby Wade on the play, and the ball ricocheted off one of them and into the hands of a diving Bigby. That puts the Packers at 4-0, a game in front of Detroit, which is on the verge of beating Chicago. As a result, next week's matchup with the Bears may have lost a bit of its luster, but it still will be a fantastic opportunity for the Packers to make a statement on national TV. I'm out for now. Direct your questions to my postgame chat by clicking here. I'll start answering them around 5:15. The Blog returns early Monday afternoon, after coach Mike McCarthy's press conference. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Vikings keep it interesting
The Vikings never should have stopped picking on Jarrett Bush. Sidney Rice had Bush's number early, and he got him again with 1:55 to play in regulation, on 15-yard, jump-ball touchdown that pulled Minnesota within 23-16. Donald Driver recovered the ensuing onside kick -- the second straight week he's made that play -- but a bad exchange between Brett Favre and Ryan Grant on the ensuing Packers possession led to a fumble, giving the Vikings one last gasp from around midfield with 1:45 to play. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Favre throws No. 422
Considering how badly Minnesota's offense has been in the second half, Brett Favre's 33-yard touchdown strike to James Jones should put this one away. It's now 23-9 with less than 6 minutes to play. It was another classic Favre touchdown pass. Play-action, a pump fake to make the safety bite and then a beautiful dart to a streaking Jones, who had a couple of steps on Marcus McCauley. On an aside, this is another gutty effort by cornerback Al Harris, who now is playing through a sprained elbow, back spasms and a hand injury. He's in and out of the lineup but got his hand on another ball on the first play of Minnesota's latest drive. Also, how about Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila? Seems everyone who told me after the San Diego game they think KGB is back were absolutely right. For the second straight game, he's been in on two sacks and forced a fumble, and he's working against a pretty good left tackle in Bryant McKinnie. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
And round and round we go
If you wanted to see a Ryan Longwell-Mason Crosby battle, you've got it. Each now has hit three field goals over the past three quarters, after Crosby's 33-yarder with 12:44 to play in regulation made it 16-9 Packers. The rookie is showing some solid nerves in his most extensive work on the road in the regular season, having also hit from 28 and 44 yards. Both teams are over 300 yards of total offense, but they've combined for one touchdown -- Brett Favre's record-breaking strike to Greg Jennings in the first quarter. The Vikings had 243 total net yards at halftime but only 51 since after the latest three-and-out. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Rough day for Packers DBs
Cornerback Al Harris has gone to the locker room to get X-rays on his right hand. He's the third Packers defensive back to leave the game at various points with injuries. Nick Collins returned after what looked like a potentially serious left knee injury, and the game was stopped during Minnesota's most recent drive because of an injury to Atari Bigby, too. Watch your back, Charles Woodson. Not to mention your recently injured hip and foot. One positive byproduct of having Harris out -- though certainly not an even trade -- is Packers coaches will get an extended look at Will Blackmon in the nickel defense. He played a little in a 3-2 dime set in the first half, but with Jarrett Bush struggling, Blackmon could help his cause with strong play in the second half. Ryan Longwell's 48-yard field goal made it 13-9 late in the third quarter. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Run, Ryan, run
Is it scary when your punter has the long run of the day? Absolutely. But what a gutty call by Packers coaches -- a fake punt on fourth-and-4 from the 50. It could have backfired in a big way -- Jon Ryan shook a tackle short of the marker and needed every bit of shimmy in his Canadian legs to pick up the first down. But it worked, so it looks like a brilliant move, as it set up a 44-yard Mason Crosby field goal that extended the Packers' lead to 13-6. Ryan was credited with a 7-yard run on the play. The next-longest still is DeShawn Wynn's 3-yarder. Ryan's scoot aside, the Packers have 16 yards on 10 carries. My colleague Pete Dougherty advises me free safety Nick Collins is back in the game. That's a huge boost to the defense, both for the rest of this game and in the long run. A serious injury would have been a big blow. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Defense needs to step up
The Vikings entered today's game 28th in the NFL in passing offense (160.7 yards per game) and 10th in rushing offense (128.3 yards per game). They're already approaching both totals, with 120 rushing yards and 123 passing yards in the first half today. A couple of big plays have impacted the number -- a 40-yard pass to Bobby Wade, Adrian Peterson's 55-yard run -- but giving up almost 250 yards to a struggling offense in one half isn't remotely acceptable. The defense will have to step up without one of its stalwarts, free safety Nick Collins, who almost certainly is done for the day. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Packers extend lead
Don't underestimate the importance of an effective 2-minute drill to end the first half. The Vikings had just completed their second consecutive scoring drive, culminated by a Ryan Longwell 35-yard field goal that pulled the Vikings within 7-6 just after the 2-minute warning. But the Packers responded with an 11-play, 66-yard drive that reached the Minnesota 4 before a sack pushed them back. Mason Crosby hit a 28-yard field goal to make it 10-6 entering halftime. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Collins suffers knee injury
Nick Collins saved a touchdown, but he might have suffered a serious injury doing it. Collins was helped off the field stopping Adrian Peterson's 55-yard run in the second quarter. He was carted to the locker room shortly after Ryan Longwell's 44-yard field goal cut the Packers' lead to 7-3. Rookie Aaron Rouse, inactive the first three games because of a hamstring injury, replaced him in the lineup. It's interesting Rouse is getting the call rather than the more experienced and mobile Charlie Peprah. The Packers now essentially have two strong safeties on the field in Rouse and Atari Bigby. There's been no update on the severity of Collins' injury, but anytime a guy is carted off with his pants rolled up above the knee, it doesn't look good. A Fox television report said he'll have X-rays taken. Meanwhile, blame Brady Poppinga for his role in Peterson's long run. The Packers' strongside linebacker overpursued the play and failed to seal the cutback lane, helping spring the rookie running back into the third level. Defensive tackle Corey Willims was hurt on the previous play, but he returned. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Bradshaw, Young offer plaudits
More reaction to Brett Favre's touchdown record... Terry Bradshaw: Brett Favre is the best I have ever seen. And I’ve never said that about anybody. He’s simply the best. He’s got the strongest arm, athleticism, field presence, leadership, poise and tenaciousness. He plays hurt, he’s fun, he’s infectious. He has everything I want to see, including the game-time decisions, the strengths, and all the intangibles. Steve Young: If you haven’t played quarterback in the NFL you truly don’t understand just how difficult it is, let alone to be great at it. Throwing one touchdown is hard but to do what Brett has done, come on. You can’t give that record enough respect. Couple that with the consecutive games streak and what he has accomplished is beyond imagination. To have one of those records is astronomical and he’s got them all. It was an honor to compete against him and an honor to be his friend.
Costly turnover
Donald Lee is proving to be a reliable option in the passing game, but getting stripped inside the Vikings' 10-yard line was a huge mistake at a bad time. The Packers would have had the ball at about the 8-yard line with the chance to score another touchdown, make it 14-0 and bring on even more boos from the Vikings faithful, who seem pretty eager to ride the home team. Instead, it's a turnover and Minnesota stays within seven. It's a great play by Minnesota safety Dwight Smith, who ripped the ball out as Lee's body was parallel to the ground, but it's still a huge mistake by Lee. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Marino congratulates Favre
Dan Marino appeared on the video screen at the Metrodome and in a taped message had this to say about Brett Favre breaking his record: "Hey Brett, it’s Dan Marino. I’d like to take a minute to congratulate you on breaking one of the great records in sports. I loved holding the touchdown record for the past 13 years, but if someone was going to break it, I’m glad it was someone like you, who has always competed at the highest level and always played only to win. Over the past 17 years, you’ve been a credit to the Packers, and to the National Football League and to the sport that we all love so much. Brett, congratulations on touchdown 421!"
Favre receives praise
Quotes from around the league on Brett Favre setting the NFL all-time record for touchdown passes. (Comments are taken from a press release distributed by the Packers public relations department at the Metrodome). Commissioner Roger Goodell: Brett Favre is one of the greatest players in NFL history. He’s so much fun to watch not only because of his talent but also because of his competitive spirit. He is the only player to win three MVP awards and his consecutive games streak at quarterback is a tribute to his toughness and passion for the game. Brett has been a leader on the field and in the community and his long list of accomplishments is truly remarkable. We have been fortunate to be able to watch him play this long and we all look forward to seeing him set many more records. Bart Starr: It’s a remarkable accomplishment and richly deserved. Brett is a fabulous competitor and personifies leadership by example. I’ve never seen a more enthusiastic player and leader. Mike Holmgren: As proud and amazed as I am of what Brett is and has accomplished on the playing field, the thing that impresses me the most is what kind of a man and leader he has become off the field. I have taken great joy in watching him develop as a person and father over his career. Joe Montana: I honestly thought Danny’s records might never be broken. What Brett has done is a tremendous accomplishment. Congratulations you old fart! -- Mike Vandermause, mvandermause@greenbaypressgazette.com
What else is new? Nothing doing on the ground
Did Mike McCarthy listen to the media a little after last week's game? Given his play-calling tendencies this season, it sure seemed like a peculiar call to run the football on third-and-1 early in the second qurter. Vikings linebackers Chad Greenway and E.J. Henderson plugged the hole before Ryan Grant could hit it, knocking him for no gain and forcing a punt. McCarthy defended throwing the ball in a couple of short-yardage situations last week, so why did he change now? Certainly, being able to run the ball between the tackles would be invaluable, but the Vikings are a difficult team to work on that against. The Packers have run four times for 8 yards in this game. The long is a 3-yarder by DeShawn Wynn. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Favre is the new TD king
How appropriate that Brett Favre threw his record-breaking 421st career touchdown pass off of an audible. One of the game's headiest players making yet another play by adjusting at the line of scrimmage. The Packers were in a three-wide, double-tight set from the Vikings' 16-yard line, and Favre had to run to the edge of the line and then rush back to get off the shotgun snap in time. Greg Jennings was on the receiving end of the quick hit from the right. The celebration at the Metrodome was brief, with an announcment over the PA and a videotaped message from Dan Marino -- the previous record-holder with 420 career touchdon passes -- playing on the jumbotron. Favre already was looking at photos on the bench before the message finished. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Vikings attacking Bush
The Vikings' opening drive stalled in part because Kelly Holcomb and Sidney Rice twice failed to hook up on deep balls against Packers No. 3 cornerback Jarrett Bush. The Chargers went after Bush last week, and it's apparent the Vikings will employ a similar plan. Worse for the Packers, Rice had Bush beat both times. On the first one, Rice had a step but the ball bounced off his hands. On the second, he was several strides past Bush, but Holcomb overthrew him. If teams keep attacking Bush, the Packers might have to consider giving Will Blackmon a shot in the nickel package. So far today, though, they've gotten away clean. On a side note, with the Vikings wearing those throwback unis, I feel like I'm watching Bucky Scribner playing quarterback. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Jackson tops Packers' inactives
Running back Brandon Jackson won't play today because of his shin injury. Jackson suffered the injury in last week's win over San Diego, and it flared up in practice Wednesday. He didn't practice Thursday or Friday. Vernand Morency, out since the beginning of training camp with a knee injury, is active for the first time this season. But DeShawn Wynn stands to see the most action, and Ryan Grant also should be in the rotation. The rest of the Packers' inactives are: CB Frank Walker, LB Desmond Bishop, T Orrin Thompson, G Allen Barbre, DTs Justin Harrell and Daniel Muir, and DE Michael Montgomery. Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson is inactive for Minnesota, meaning Kelly Holcomb will start. The rest of the Vikings' inactives are: CB Ronyell Whitaker, RB Mewelde Moore, TE Garrett Mills, T Chase Johnson, WR Aundrae Allison, DT Fred Evans and DE Erasmus James. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Morency ready
Halfback Vernand Morency appears recovered enough from his patellar-tendon injury to make to make his first appearance of the season Sunday at Minnesota. Also, rookie halfback Brandon Jackson might not be able to play because of a shin sprain. Morency took part in practice Friday, and coach Mike McCarthy listed him as "probable" for Sunday's game, which means there's a "virtual certainty" Morency will be available for his normal duty. Morency sustained the injury the first day of training camp and has been practicing on a limited basis since the regular season began. Jackson did not practice Friday and is listed as "questionable" (50 percent chance of playing). -- Pete Dougherty pdougher@greenbaypressgazette.com UPDATE: Here's the full injury report. PACKERS: OUT: DE Mike Montgomery (knee). QUESTIONABLE: DT Justin Harrell (knee), RB Brandon Jackson (shin). PROBABLE: LB Desmond Bishop (shoulder), T Chad Clifton (knee), WR Donald Driver (toe), QB Brett Favre (right finger), TE Bubba Franks (knee), CB Al Harris (back), DE Cullen Jenkins (ribs), WR Greg Jennings (hamstring), RB Vernand Morency (knee), DT Daniel Muir (ribs), C Scott Wells (hamstring), DT Corey Williams (knee), CB Charles Woodson (foot). VIKINGS: QUESTIONABLE: QB Tarvaris Jackson (groin). PROBABLE: RB Tony Richardson (forearm), S Dwight Smith (hamstring), RB Chester Taylor (hip), WR Troy Williamson (hamstring).
Top 5 QBs all-time
With Brett Favre about to break Dan Marino’s NFL record of 420 career touchdown passes, this seemed like a good time to rank the five best quarterbacks in NFL history. Now, as a disclaimer, few people are qualified to weigh in intelligently on this subject -- Bill Walsh, for instance, would have have had an opinion worth hearing -- and I’m not one. But we’ve all got our two-bit thoughts, so here’s mine. I’ve always been inclined to put Joe Montana at the top of the list, but after a conversation with former Packers GM Ron Wolf a year or so ago, I realized I was just putting the best quarterback of my generation at the top, just as people from Johnny Unitas’ generation probably would rate him the best. Wolf said he talked with Hall of Famer George Blanda years ago, after Blanda had retired, and Blanda convinced him that Otto Graham was best of all time. The reason? In his 10 years of professional football, all with the Cleveland Browns, Graham played in his league’s championship game every year and won seven of them. In Graham’s first four seasons, from 1946-49, the Browns played in the All-America Football Conference and won the league title all four times. In Graham’s final six years, the Browns reached the NFL title game every season and won three. Montana is second on the list because of his four Super Bowl titles, and Unitas third, though that could be a generational bias in Montana’s favor. After that it’s extremely difficult. The next three candidates in my mind are John Elway, Dan Marino and Favre, though Tom Brady and perhaps Peyton Manning will deserve consideration in a few years. I’d take Favre and Elway over Marino. All were great passers, but Favre and Elway were far more mobile and bigger winners. Elway or Favre next, a hard call, almost impossible. One’s fourth, the other fifth. Favre’s durability and his all-time competitiveness are major factors on his side. But Elway won two Super Bowls to Favre’s one and cut back on his interceptions the second half of his career -- though he also had an MVP running back in Terrell Davis when he won his Super Bowls. Not sure if me covering Favre since 1993 hurts or helps his cause here. In the end, it’s Elway by the absolute smallest of margins, though for a real story or column, I'd consult some old scouts and coaches before weighing. And if Favre keeps playing like he has this year, that opinion could change anyway. -- Pete Dougherty pdougher@greenbaypressgazette.com
Injury report
As reported earlier here in the Blog, receiver Greg Jennings (hamstring) and running back Brandon Jackson (shin) did not participate in practice this morning. They were the only Packers listed in that category on today's injury report. Listed as limited were: T Chad Clifton (knee), DE Cullen Jenkins (ribs), RB Vernand Morency (knee), DT Corey Williams (knee), TE Bubba Franks (knee), CB Al Harris (back) and CB Charles Woodson (foot). Fully participating were: LB Desmond Bishop (shoulder), WR Donald Driver (toe) and QB Brett Favre (finger). DE Michael Montgomery (knee) is out. There were no changes to the Vikings' injury report. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Morency in for Jackson?
Depending on the severity of Brandon Jackson's strained shin, the coaching staff may not have to make a difficult decision to clear a game-day roster spot for Vernand Morency. Jackson suffered the injury Sunday against San Diego, and it flared up in practice Wednesday, coach Mike McCarthy said this afternoon. The rookie was on the field at the start of practice today but left for rehab about 20 minutes into the workout. Meanwhile, Morency had a better Thursday workout than in recent weeks, McCarthy said, adding he is hopeful the back will make his season debut Sunday at Minnesota. Morency missed the entire preseason and the first three regular-season games with a strained knee. "He looked good two days in a row," McCarthy said. "I think he’s put together back-to-back practices where in the past he’s been frustrated the day after of a hard practice because of the way he feels." McCarthy said he wasn't sure whether Jackson would practice Friday. Morency was limited today but is expected to practice in full Friday. If Jackson is healthy, the Packers could deactivate Ryan Grant or DeShawn Wynn to open a role for Morency. * Though Jason Spitz "looks like he's back to full" after battling a calf strain, Junius Coston remains the starting right guard, McCarthy said. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Jennings, Jackson miss practice
Receiver Greg Jennings and running back Brandon Jackson did not practice today, apparently because of injuries. Jennings, who missed the season's first two games because of a hamstring injury, was limited in practice Wednesday by the same problem. Coach Mike McCarthy said then it was his decision to be cautious with Jennings, but the team's No. 2 receiver watched the jog-through in sweats and then left the practice field today. It wasn't immediatey clear whether he sat out as a precaution or suffered a setback. Jackson hasn't been on the injury report since he bounced back from a concussion suffered late in training camp. But he, too, watched today's jog-through idly -- albeit in pads -- and then exited out a side door about 20 minutes into practice. Running back Vernand Morency, who hasn't played this season because of a knee injury, practiced for the second consecutive day and appeared to be moving fine, and it seems possible he could be active Sunday against Minnesota. Charles Woodson (foot) left at the same time as Jackson. Fellow starting cornerback Al Harris (back) appeared to be participating in most drills during the roughly one hour of practice open to state media. Defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins (ribs) didn't do much again. Tackle Chad Clifton (knee), linebacker Desmond Bishop (shoulder), receiver Donald Driver (toe), defensive tackle Corey Williams (knee), quarterback Brett Favre (finger) and tight end Bubba Franks (knee) appeared to be participating in most drills but probably will be listed as limited. UPDATE: According to McCarthy, Jennings was held out as a precaution and hopes the receiver will practice Friday; Jackson suffered a shin strain Sunday and it flared up Wednesday; and Morency had his best Thursday practice today, albeit in a limited capacity, so McCarthy is hopeful he could play Sunday. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Injury report: Favre limited by cut finger
Packers coaches limited quarterback Brett Favre's work in practice today because of a small cut on one of the fingers on his throwing hand. "He went through the team (portions of practice)," coach Mike McCarthy said. "I just gave Aaron (Rodgers) some of his reps today. "(Favre is) going to be fine. He's played with a lot worse." Favre suffered the injury at home Monday night, McCarthy said. Favre also suffered a cut on his hand at home during training camp but didn't miss any significant practice time. Rodgers ran the starting offense during the team periods reporters were allowed to watch today. Meanwhile, coaches are working Vernand Morency into the rotation in practice, and McCarthy said the long-sidelined running back looked "very good" during portions of today's workout. Morency hasn't played since straining the patella tendon in his right knee on the first day of training camp July 28. "I'm hopeful that we're past where we've been the last couple weeks," McCarthy said of Morency, who has been sore Thursday after Wednesday workouts each of the past three weeks. "We've got him in the rotation, and he took his share of reps. He actually looked very good in some of the things that he did, so we will actually talk about that tonight and see how he feels in the morning and see how we can move forward, because like we've talked about in the past, the packages and (making) sure we get that whole group their reps that they need this week to be ready is important." If and when Morency suits up for a game, Brandon Jackson, DeShawn Wynn or Ryan Grant likely would be inactive because McCarthy doesn't see the Packers activating four halfbacks on the 45-man roster. Receiver Greg Jennings was limited in practice today because his problematic hamstring was "a little sore," according to McCarthy. "He's fine. He feels great," McCarthy said. "The guy who's holding him back is myself." Tight end Bubba Franks and tackle Chad Clifton are dealing with old knee injuries but are expected to play. Clifton probably won't practice much on Wednesdays in the future, McCarthy said. The Packers will release their first injury for the week shortly. Here's what it will be: Limited participationLB Desmond Bishop (shoulder) T Chad Clifton (knee) WR Donald Driver (toe) QB Brett Favre (right finger) DL Cullen Jenkins (ribs) RB Vernand Morency (knee) DL Corey Williams (knee) CB Charles Woodson (foot) WR Greg Jennings (hamstring) Did not participateTE Bubba Franks (knee) CB Al Harris (back) OutDE Michael Montgomery (knee) UPDATE: For the Vikings, four players -- QB Tarvaris Jackson (groin), S Dwight Smith (hamstring), RB Chester Taylor (hip) and WR Troy Williamson (hamstring) -- were limited. FB Tony Richardson (forearm) was listed in the full participation category. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Practice notes: Favre takes it easy
Aaron Rodgers ran the starting offense while Brett Favre watched during the portions of practice open to the media today inside The Don Hutson Center. Coach Mike McCarthy didn't mention any injury to Favre in his remarks Sunday or Monday, and odds are he's resting his arm and ankles. He was on the field and participated in the run-through part of practice. A number of players battling injuries -- including cornerbacks Al Harris (back/elbow) and Charles Woodson (hip flexor), tackle Chad Clifton (ankle) and defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins (side) -- left the practice field early. Tight end Bubba Franks stayed on the field but had ice on his right knee throughout. End Michael Montgomery (knee) also did not practice. Guard Jason Spitz (calf) was working in some with the starters, but it seems Junius Coston is on track for his third straight start at right guard. Receiver Chris Francies, cut Monday to make room on the roster for Shaun Bodiford, has been re-signed to the practice squad and was on the field this morning. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
The Packers chairman speaks
Packers chairman Bob Harlan answered some questions this afternoon: On whether he's surprised by the Packers' 3-0 start: "Yeah, I think considering the opponents, if you looked at the schedule back in July, you would have loved to be in this position. I think in reality, looking at Philadelphia, New York and San Diego, it would be tough to say this club would be 3-0." On the Packers rebounding from a 4-8 record in early December last season: "What I admire about it so much is the fact that they always talk about these young kids when they come into the league and play the longer season compared to what they play in college, that they just kind of hit the wall, particularly early in their careers. With the team sitting at 4-8 and being as young as it was, it could have hit the wall, it could have said, it’s over, let’s just play it out, play out the string and go on to next year. I congratulate not only the players who hung in there, and not only hung in there but got better, but the coaching staff. Mike and his coaching staff. They kept them together. They didn’t let 'em fold up their tents and go home. I think that speaks great accolades for both groups. I was very proud of the way they finished the season." On how General Manager Ted Thompson handled criticism during the offseason: "He handles it pretty well. He and I meet frequently. I pretty much knew when he came in how he was going to build this team. He didn’t make it any secret with me how he planned to do things. "I had the advantage obviously with him, I watched him work here for several years for Ron (Wolf). When he talks frequently, he’ll say, 'I learned this from Ron Wolf, or I learned that from Ron Wolf.' I knew how Ron liked to build a team through the draft. Then I watched what Ted did in Seattle, so when he came here and said I like to build through the draft, we may do a little bit in free agency but he said 'I’m not going to be spending money in April to please the fans and be disappointed in Novemeber when the guy doesn’t pan out.' I totally understood that. "When the fans would call me and discuss this, I said 'Here’s what Ted’s plan is' and I would go through it with them. And they seemed to get a better understanding. Not so much in Year 1 when Ted was here, but last year when they could see the draft was producing, and this year when they could see the draft was producing. "All those calls have stopped. They know if he gets the right guy, like a Ryan Pickett or Charles Woodson, he’s going to go get him. But he’s not going to go into that area and spend a lot of money. When he drafts he is going to definitely take the best player on the board. As he says, 'I’ve got to build the whole team, not just one position.' " -- Mike Vandermause, mvandermause@greenbaypressgazette.com
Could Packers go 12-4?
The Packers' current seven-game winning streak dating to last season is four victories shy of the team record, which was set in 1928-29 and matched in 1961-62. The Packers also posted nine-game winning streaks in 1931, 1936 and 1997-98. With a victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the Packers can match the eight-game team winning streaks posted in 1930, 1941 and 1963. Former coach Mike Sherman guided the Packers to seven-game winning streaks on two different occasions, including 2000-01, and in 2002. Although official team records don't include post-season games, the Packers actually won 12 games in a row in 1961-62. They won their final regular-season game, then won the NFL championship game over the New York Giants before opening the 1962 season with 10 straight victories. How far can the current Packers' streak be stretched? The Packers are 1.5-point favorites over the Vikings, but victories at the Metrodome are never easy. Then again, the Packers have won three of their last four games in Minnesota, and the Vikings are struggling mightily at the quarterback position. Should the Packers beat the Vikings, their next test is at home against Chicago. The Bears are the defending NFC champion and have beaten the Packers the last three years at Lambeau Field. However, they also have an unsettled quarterback situation and are vulnerable. That is followed by a winnable home game against Washington. The Packers could conceivably take a 6-0 record into the bye week before hitting the road for a Monday night game at Denver, where the win streak would likely meet its demise. With their fast start, the Packers would only need to play close to .500 ball (7-6) the rest of the way to finish with 10 victories. My original prediction for the Packers was nine victories, which now seems too low. Let's do a game-by-game reassessment, based on the Packers' 3-0 start and elevated status, and what the oddsmakers would say: Eagles, W 16-13 at Giants, W 35-13 Chargers, W 31-24 at Vikings (Win) Bears (Win) Redskins (Win) at Broncos (Loss) at Chiefs (Win) Vikings (Win) Panthers (Win) at Lions (Loss) at Cowboys (Loss) Raiders (Win) at Rams (Win) at Bears (Loss) Lions (Win) These projections leave the Packers with a 12-4 record. That would be good enough to win the NFC North, and perhaps earn a bye in the first round of the playoffs. Of course, projections on paper mean nothing. As Chris Berman would say, "That's why they play the games." -- Mike Vandermause, mvandermause@greenbaypressgazette.com
Who's in your five?
After going to 2-0 last week, the Packers made big leaps in several national power rankings. Various outlets had them fifth (Sports Illustrated's Dr. Z), eighth (CBSSports.com's Pete Prisco), 10th (FoxSports.com) and 12th (ESPN.com). It’s all conjecture, of course, but there’s a strong argument to be made for the Packers being in the top five across the board after Sunday’s win over San Diego, especially with only five unbeaten teams remaining. New England and Indianapolis are the consensus 1-2 pairing, regardless of whether you give the edge to this year’s powerhouse or the defending champs. Given Dallas’ domination and league-high 116 points, the Cowboys probably deserve to be No. 3. Then there are the Packers, Pittsburgh (which has won three straight by at least three touchdowns but hasn’t faced a decent opponent) and 10 teams at 2-1 with varying degrees of accomplishment. Houston seems like the best of the 2-1 group, having thumped Kansas City, beaten a decent Carolina team and given Indianapolis a game Sunday without the services of star receiver Andre Johnson. Carolina’s beaten two 0-3 teams. Denver barely got past Buffalo and Oakland, then lost to Jacksonville. Baltimore committed six turnovers against Cincinnati, which proceeded to give up about a billion yards to Cleveland the next week. Detroit was embarrassed by previously winless Philadelphia. The list goes on. Looking at the full list of 2-1 teams — and even some 1-2 teams like Chicago and San Diego, which have faced tough competition early and probably are better than their records — there’s no way the Packers shouldn’t be No. 5 or higher on every board Tuesday morning. For what it’s worth, here’s how I would rank the NFL from top to bottom entering tonight’s game: 1. New England (3-0) 2. Indianapolis (3-0) 3. Dallas (3-0) 4. Pittsburgh (3-0) 5. Packers (3-0) 6. Houston (2-1) 7. San Diego (1-2) 8. Baltimore (2-1) 9. Chicago (1-2) 10. Carolina (2-1) 11. Jacksonville (2-1) 12. Denver (2-1) 13. Tampa Bay (2-1) 14. Seattle (2-1) 15. Tennessee (1-1) 16. Philadelphia (1-2) 17. San Francisco (2-1) 18. Cincinnati (1-2) 19. N.Y. Giants (1-2) 20. Washington (2-1) 21. Detroit (2-1) 22. New Orleans (0-2) 23. N.Y. Jets (1-2) 24. Cleveland (1-2) 25. Arizona (1-2) 26. Oakland (1-2) 27. Kansas City (1-2) 28. Miami (1-2) 29. St. Louis (0-3) 30. Minnesota (1-2) 31. Atlanta (0-3) 32. Buffalo (0-3) — Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Bodiford returns to Packers
The Packers re-signed receiver Shaun Bodiford and released wideout Chris Francies, the team announced this afternoon. Bodiford (5-11, 186 pounds) appeared in three games in 2006 for the Packers before being placed on injured reserve. Bodiford played in all four preseason games in August for Green Bay and was on the Washington Redskins roster for the first two weeks of the regular season.
More from McCarthy
Coach Mike McCarthy defended his decision to go with an empty-backfield, shotgun set on fourth-and-goal from inside the Chargers' 1-yard line while trailing by four in the fourth quarter Sunday. "If you can go empty backfield all day and it's successful, I mean, I really don't understand the criticism of doing it at that particular time, especially fourth-and-1," McCarthy said. "Actually seeing the play, I'm still very comfortable with the call. "I haven't seen Brett (Favre) yet, and I don't know if he's watched the film, but he'll be disappointed when he sees the play." McCarthy wouldn't say directly that Favre threw to the wrong receiver but reiterated the outside receivers were isolated 1-on-1. Favre tried to thread the ball to tight end Bubba Franks in the middle and it fell incomplete. McCarthy also said he didn't consider kicking a field goal in that situation. Also from McCarthy ... * Tight end Donald Lee was down at the 1-yard line earlier in the same drive, but replays were inconclusive about whether receiver James Jones was, too. * The Packers probably won't send a tape of Chargers safety Marlon McCree's hit on Donald Driver to the NFL, but McCarthy expects the incident will be "handled" to the league. * There will be a time when the Packers have to pound the football on the ground, "but that's not the way we're built right now." Coaches will continue to examine the running game, especially to prepare for bad-weather games the second half of the season. * Communication breakdowns between the secondary and the front seven contributed to Philip Rivers' strong start Sunday. * McCarthy will speak with trainers Tuesday about whether RB Vernand Morency, out since the first day of training camp with a knee injury, once again will test the injury in practice Wednesday. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Injury update
Seven Packers came out of Sunday's game with notable injuries, coach Mike McCarthy said this afternoon. He listed safety Nick Collins (lower back contusion), receiver Donald Driver (sore knee), running backs Brandon Jackson (shin contusion) and DeShawn Wynn (ankle), cornerbacks Al Harris (back spasms) and Charles Woodson (hip flexor) and defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins (side). Sunday's game had to be stopped for Collins, Wynn and Jenkins to come off the field. The training staff wasn't particularly concerned by Wynn's injury, McCarthy said, adding the rookie made a mistake when he called a timeout rather than simply going to the ground or getting off the field. McCarthy was a little late to the press conference because he was meeting with the training staff. It's a "medical Monday," so players have a lighter day and aren't available to the media. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Game over
The Packers have put a 31-24 win -- and a 3-0 start -- in the books. Send your questions for the postgame chat here. I'll be back about 5:15 with answers. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Packers deserve their 3-0 start
Put it on the board: The Green Bay Packers are among the favorites to win the NFC. Nick Barnett halted San Diego's final drive with an interception, and Brandon Jackson punched in a touchdown from a yard out to make it 31-21. The Chargers now need a miracle comeback to avoid falling to 1-2. It's easy to say we should have seen this coming, but the way the Packers are on the verge of winning -- even more than the result -- is incredible. Stopped on fourth-and-goal from inside the 1-yard line, the Packers came back with a defensive stop, scored a go-ahead touchdown and then forced a turnover. Don't book your tickets to Arizona just yet, but that's the stuff champions are made of. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Packers back in front
It certainly wasn't the most challenging of Brett Favre's 420 career touchdown passes. But his record-tying toss couldn't have come at a better time, with the Packers trailing by four and less than 3 minutes to play. The Chargers essentially ran themselves out of the play after Greg Jennings caught a quick slant from the left and walked in for a 57-yard touchdown that made it 24-21. Considering how the Packers' previous drive ended, this was a huge recovery. Now the defense needs one more stop. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Sometimes, you have to pound it
There's no doubt the shotgun, empty-backfield offense has been the Packers' best friend during their struggles with the run. But on multiple occasions today, they've stuck with that formation in short-yardage situations -- most recent, on fourth-and-goal from the 1-foot line. That play ended with a pass to Bubba Franks getting batted down in traffic and may have cost the Packers their shot to pull the upset. Coach Mike McCarthy deserves a lot of credit for the creativity he's shown the past two weeks. Heck, the Packers have thrown for 306 yards today. But he blew it with that call. We'll see whether McCarthy adjusts if the Packers face another short-yardage situation on their final drive. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Thoughts through 3 quarters
* The Packers display no confidence in their running game. On third and 1 from their own 45 on the first offensive series of the third quarter, they didn’t even consider running for a first down. Favre worked out of the shotgun and threw incomplete under heavy pressure. The Packers passed 26 times in the first half vs. eight runs, a ration of more than 3 to 1. * Bart Starr received, by far, the loudest ovation during halftime introductions of Packers alumni. Fans fondly remember Starr being the quarterback during the Packers’ five championship seasons in the 1960s. They obviously are willing to forgive and forget his nine-year coaching tenure during the 1970s and early 1980s when the Packers posted just two winning seasons. * The Packers’ defense is playing far too soft. In the final 2 minutes of the first half the Chargers trailed 17-7 and marched 80 yards, with little resistance, for a touchdown. San Diego receivers appeared to have at least a 5-yard cushion on every pass. It was a sign of things to come. The Chargers took the second-half kickoff and marched 80 yards in 12 plays to take the lead, 21-17. -Mike Vandermause, mvandermause@greenbaypressgazette.com
Chargers make statement
Philip Rivers has been stellar all day, and now LaDainian Tomlinson has gotten into the act, too. They hooked up for a 21-yard touchdown, capping a 12-play, 80-yard drive that put San Diego back in front 21-17 early in the second half. Rivers now is 20-for-23 for 213 yards and three touchdowns. Once again, the Packers are challenged to answer. We'll see how the young backs and receivers hold up. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Good half for Packers
Though San Diego's last drive, culminated by Philip Rivers' 9-yard touchdown strike to Buster Davis, zapped some of the Packers' momentum, this was quite a half for the home team. They lead in total yards (220-176), passing yards (185-151) and -- shockingly -- rushing yards (35-24), as well as on the scoreboard (17-14). From both sides, this looked like a game in which two teams would come back to reality. So far, though, it's been more of the same. The Packers are doing an effective job moving the ball through the air, and the Chargers can't get anything going on the ground. There are 30 minutes to go, but the Packers are the clear winners in the first half. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Score one for the tuck rule
The officials eventually got the call right on Brett Favre's non-fumble in the red zone, and the overturned fumble set up a 5-yard touchdown for Bubba Franks. Intent has nothing to do with that call; it's all about whether Favre's arm was moving forward. So even though he clearly was trying to pump fake on first-and-goal from the 5-yard line, he hadn't gotten the ball back to his body, and replay correctly changed the call from a fumble to an incompletion. No one should be happier about that than Franks, who dropped a potential touchdown pass on the Packers' first drive. He held on this time, hauling in Favre's pass in the middle off a pump fake, extending the Packers' lead to 17-7. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
Driver gets job done
The Packers' second drive was all about Donald Driver. After getting his helmet knocked off on the first drive, Driver had no trouble going over the middle for a first-down completion on third-and-five in Chargers' territory. He also completed the drive with a beautiful, diving grab for a 5-yard touchdown, putting the Packers ahead 10-7. Moments like these make it no surprise he's now the all-time leading receiver at Lambeau Field. -- Tom Pelissero, tpelisse@greenbaypressgazette.com
First-quarter thoughts
The interference call against Charles Woodson on Chargers receiver Buster Davis on San Diego’s first offensive series was questionable. It looked even more dubious when compared to the mugging Donald Driver received on the Packers’ first series when nothing was called. The Packers went for it on fourth and 2 at the Chargers’ 39, and it appeared obvious cornerback Quentin Jammer interfered with Driver. Good officiating involves consistency, and it wasn’t evident early in the game. * Bubba Franks absolutely has to make a catch in the end zone for a touchdown in the first quarter. Brett Favre’s third-down pass led Franks slightly, and the ball bounced off Franks’ hands. The Packers were forced to settle for a field goal. * Give Mike McCarthy credit for going for it on four |
