Morning Buzz: Resting Rodgers
Welcome to your Morning Buzz, rounding up news and views regarding the Green Bay Packers from around the web and here at PackersNews.com. Grab a cup of coffee (or brew some tea, if that’s your thing) and get caught up on everything you need to know about the Packers.
First up, the Minnesota Vikings continued their slide back down the standings with a loss to the Dallas Cowboys last night. The Packers desperately need both the Vikings and Lions to drop a few games if they are to have any realistic shot at postseason play. Last night’s result helps.
The Packers, meanwhile, are getting ready to face the Texans and they are limiting the amount of practice time they are asking of Aaron Rodgers.
The coaches managed reps for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is still recovering from the hamstring injury suffered against the Eagles. Rodgers split reps with backup Brett Hundley during the portion of practice open to the media. He also spent time rehabbing with the trainers off to the side of the field.
Despite a reduced workload, Rodgers is still expected to play this weekend. The limited involvement is more cautionary than anything else.
Michael also takes a look at the quick-hitting passing game and the problems it presents for opposing defenses.
Bob McGinn writes that the Packers are failing at forcing fumbles.
I did a Q&A with Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle about the Texans.
Mike McCarthy is breaking his normal routine when it comes to his run/pass balance. Great look from Ryan Wood.
On the season, McCarthy has called pass plays on 72 percent of his offensive snaps, compared to 28 percent traditional run plays. That split has grown more lopsided since Lacy’s season-ending ankle injury, with the Packers having a 76-24 pass-run distribution in their past six games.
It’s a departure from McCarthy’s traditional play-calling model. In his first 10 seasons, the Packers had a total pass-run distribution of 63-37.
Aaron Rodgers talked to the Houston media about the pressure their quarterback is under.
People are still marveling at this play from Monday night.
If you see Aaron Rodgers today, wish him a Happy Birthday.
Brett Hundley is getting starter reps this week, just in case.
The Packers have to be on the lookout for trick plays Sunday.