Outside Linebacker Remains an Unknown for Packers
By jasonperone
As the Green Bay Packers finalized their roster this past weekend, many questions were answered. How many receivers will they carry? Which undrafted free agents will make the team? Who sticks around on the practice squad? Those were just a few.
At outside linebacker, the signals seemed clear heading into the offseason that the Packers needed to start addressing the future of their pass rush. Julius Peppers wasn't brought back. Clay Matthews is a year older and nearing the end of his current deal. Jayrone Elliott still hadn't forged a full-time role and Kyler Fackrell was inconsistent at best. Nick Perry had his best season in 2016, fresh off of a new contract.
Vince Biegel was the lone outside linebacker drafted this past spring. Shortly after spring mini camp began, Biegel dropped out with a foot injury that eventually required surgery. Biegel's recovery has been slow. Very slow. He was placed on the physically unable to perform list to start the season and will miss the first six weeks. With no time on the field, Biegel is a complete unknown in terms of what he can offer the Packers defense this season.
Fast forward to now: Elliott is gone, traded to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday for a seventh-round pick. Matthews and Perry are one and two atop the depth chart. When healthy, they're easily the best options for the Green Bay pass rush. But both are dinged up and Matthews hasn't been dominant the past two seasons. Fackrell is still a question mark and the team just signed veteran Ahmad Brooks and claimed Chris Odom off waivers to add depth.
So there stands your primary pass rush for the Green Bay Packers.
Based on that, I can only hope that some of these new defensive looks and schemes are wildly successful. It's not ideal to have to rely on stunts and blitzes to keep consistent pressure on the opposing quarterback, but the Packers may have to do just that if they can't get it done with their outside rushers.
Peppers was aging so it was going to be time to move on, but he averaged nearly 10 sacks per season. That production needs to be replaced from guys not named Matthews or Perry. Brooks isn't likely to be a full-time guy unless injury forces that hand. Even if he is, does he have 10 sacks in him? What's Fackrell's ceiling? Right now, there isn't a lot of evidence that opposing offensive lines have their games against Green Bay circled on the schdule.
Defensive Coordinator Dom Capers hopefully also sees the reality. It's his job to put what guys he has in the best position to do as much damage as possible. Perhaps by subtraction, the rest of the defense will step up and become better. That's a hope right now, not a certainty.
If the defense is constantly having to deploy a defensive back to get pressure, there's one less guy to cover. The Packers defense still hasn't solved the middle of the field and it will quickly become apparent that spots are open when guys vacate to blitz. Those things have a way of magically showing up on tape before long. Opposing offenses dinking and dunking all day means a tired defense when it's time to close out games.
As with any area of weakness on a football team, that weakness trickles down into other areas. Pass rush, to me, is probably the biggest area of concern for this Packers team. Some argue that it's offensive line, but that assumes one or more of the preferred starters will miss significant time. We don't know that yet. Matthews and Perry have injury histories and have missed multiple games several times before. Can they stay healthy?
With two tough games right away this season, we'll get a decent idea of how effective this Packers defense can put the pressure on the passer. Seattle's offensive line is nothing special but quarterback Russell Wilson can move around and has had a solid preseason. Atlanta's line kept Matt Ryan squeaky clean in the NFC championship game (no sacks).
Once the season starts, there aren't many good remedies if the pass rush isn't very good. Here's hoping this current squad can overachieve and get the best from the guys they have.
-------------------
Jason is a freelance writer on staff since 2012 and also co-hosts Cheesehead TV Live, Pulse of the Pack and Pack A Day podcasts. You can follow him on Twitter here
Comments (83)
Daren726
September 04, 2017 at 06:18 am
I think Odom is an upgrade over Elliot. Elliot has shown flashes of good work, but nothing consistent. This gives us a better option this year while we wait for Biegle. Then next year we add more talent.
KenEllis
September 04, 2017 at 08:36 am
Odom may well be an upgrade over Elliott, whose value is pretty well summed up by the fact that could only fetch a conditional 7th round pick in a trade.
However, Odom has never played the 3-4 OLB position and has no knowledge of GB's defensive system, which we keep being told is a really complex one under Dom Capers.
Consequently, expecting any impact from Odom anytime soon would seem a tad optimistic in my view.
Thus, we now have the already injured Perry, the always a play away from injury Matthews, yesterday's new FA pickup Brooks, and the immortal Kyler Fackrell as the top 4 OLBs for the foreseeable future.
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 10:54 am
I suspect, based on Elliot's inconsistency in defending the run, that Odom should be able to step into the obvious passing situations Elliot would have played and be useful. He's played some from a two-point stance, but mostly with a hand on the ground. He'll net snaps early on that way, but you're right: my guess is he's a healthy scratch against Seattle.
pooch
September 05, 2017 at 09:26 am
More conplex for backfield then olbers
Packer_Fan
September 04, 2017 at 06:34 am
OLB has been addressed. We will have to see how it shakes out. At least TT acted. OL is a different story. After the draft I was Ok with Barclay, Spriggs and Murphy as primary backups. Barclay is hurt and on IR. Spriggs and Murphy didn't make the jump. TT needs to make some moves soon.
Oppy
September 04, 2017 at 10:17 am
I feel okay about Murphy as a second year guard.
RobinsonDavis
September 04, 2017 at 09:23 pm
Oppy's point, I think, is about Murphy playing and supporting a back-up role for guard, as well. This is exactly what I think the Packer staff is considering. The FIRST consideration in my mind though is what happens if Linsley goes down? Who is first in, and 3rd string. This will help determine who is next up at guard and who won't dress.
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 10:56 am
If they were going to make a move, I think it would have happened by now.
IMO they're likely to roll the dice with what they've got and take their chances. I suspect it will take an impactful injury to force TTs hand.
Mojo
September 04, 2017 at 11:11 am
I agree with Oppy, I think Murphy will be OK at RT if needed. Thought he did fine in pass pro during the preseason. Don't know if he's good at run blocking, but that's secondary to his primary purpose.
I think they go with Murphy as one of the 46 actives and sit Spriggs where he can't do us any harm.
NickPerry
September 04, 2017 at 06:37 am
IMO it's imperative the Packers try and get some pressure from the D-Line, specifically Clark, Daniels, and Lowry. I really like the addition of Brooks but he alone can't pickup all the snaps Peppers and Jones played last season. But with Perry, Matthews, and Brooks, the starting D-Line, and a few snaps for Odom and Frackrell, and for Gods sake a little luck in the injury department they should be able to get decent pressure.
Brooks and Perry might be a better combination right now than Perry and Matthews, at least the Packers would have two solid OLB at defending the edge. Matthews has been his best since the 2014 season when he's moved around the defense. Having Brooks allows Capers to move Matthews around and at the same time have his 3 best pass rushers on the field at the same time.
pooch
September 04, 2017 at 07:16 am
Good post Nick,they need to get Perry,Matthews,and Brooks all on the field together,get there 3 best rushers out there.Let Clay roam the .middle were he is most effective and is not straining hamstrings trying to push around 325# tackles
NickPerry
September 04, 2017 at 08:11 am
Exactly pooch. I would think Matthews slamming into those LT snap after snap is going to put more strain on his hamstrings like you said than anything else. Matthews is still plenty fast and strong but lets put him in the best possible position to succeed. Ever since 2014 when he had 2.5 sacks through 8 games playing outside and 8.5 sacks in 8 games while playing inside and moving around has that been his best position.
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 10:58 am
It always seemed to me that Matthews's default pass rush was the speed rush, and he seemed to line up wider and take a wider path as time went by. I think THAT'S the strain on his hammies, especially when he's got to get that lean into the LT and bend down on the QB.
porupack
September 04, 2017 at 08:43 am
Excellent NickPerry. Solid argument that the pass rush could be a strength with the strong interior Dlinemen.
Oppy
September 04, 2017 at 10:21 am
I think we're going to be seeing a lot of pressure being generated by safeties coming inside as well as off the edges this season.
We have some very aggressive, physical and fast young safeties on this roster, we kept a bunch in general, and the emphasis has been the ability to drop these guys into a LB role on passing downs. I'm guessing we'll be seeing some pressures generated by those guys, too.
Bure9620
September 04, 2017 at 11:27 am
Great point, everyone ignores the interior rush. There is more than one way to get pressure. Excited to see Dean Lowry in this role on 3rd down. Also, if you collapse the pocket from the interior is does not allow the QB to step up in the pocket, and throws him off his spot and can change the arm angle. I really like our interior rush, it will help the outside backers get home. Cannot wait until Montravius is healthy RIDICULOUS athleticism for a tackle, sub 4.8 40 for a 310 pounder!!!!
cheesehead1
September 04, 2017 at 07:27 am
Totally agree. Still hoping TT brings in some OL depth.
Bearmeat
September 04, 2017 at 08:01 am
At least TT did something. What would have been ideal is him doing something back in March. It's clear that Peppers or Datone should have been resigned, and he SHOULD have gotten a mid-tier or front line OLB then. And no, I'm not letting go of getting Barwin. So eat it. haha. ;)
At least TT acted in April with Evans. Can you imagine our OL without him at RG right now????
This is what a top tier GM does. Draft and develop is the center of talent acquisition, but the draft is a big crap shoot. So the GM gives opportunity to the rooks, but hedges his bet with trades and not-breaking-the-bank FA acquisitions. I remain convinced that TT not doing this has cost GB at least 1 super bowl, if not more.
I've been saying for months that depending on CM3 and Perry to stay healthy, and then depending Fackrell, Elliot and Biegel when the starters (inevitably) got hurt, was idiotic, and could very well cost us a very promising season.
It seems MM and Co FINALLY convinced TT this was the case. The DL needs to help out too. I'm happier with the OLB position (and the defense as a result) now than I have been since Sam Shields went down.
Let's see what Brooks and Odom have.
Bearmeat
September 04, 2017 at 08:02 am
Side Rant:
Losing McCaffery and letting go of Price was stupid. Pipkins would have cleared waivers, and our backup OL guys aren't ready or just suck. They'd have cleared waivers too. So would have a 5th RB. Big men who can stop the run are harder to find than 7th CBs.
At least Gilbert cleared waivers. Phew.
NickPerry
September 04, 2017 at 08:27 am
I saw the Vikings have put Datone Jones on Injured reserve (Shoulder) but read they'll probably release him with an injury settlement.
Hey, if the shoulder isn't to bad and he IS released why not bring him back? The man did lead the Packers in QB pressures or hurries, one of those stats last season.
Thoughts????
Edit...I think I read McCaffrey didn't want to come back to GB. The Packers really have a lot of depth and he probably figured he has a faster chance of making it to the 53 man roster in New Orleans than GB.
chugwater
September 04, 2017 at 09:32 am
I've always maintained Datone is a decent, relatively inexpensive, rotational player who can defend the run and provide a respectable amount of pressure rushing the quarterback. No, he's not Terrell Suggs but he's a solid player who can add depth to the OLB. Not an all-pro, but not a liability either. Teams need players like him to fill their rosters.
At this point the questions are how bad is his injury, will the Vikes actually release him, and do the Packers need him that we've signed Brooks and Odom? I don't see us signing him now unless (until?) Perry or Matthews get hurt.
Mojo
September 04, 2017 at 11:24 am
I heard that the Vikings put Jone on IR with the intent to reach an injury settlement: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2017/9/2/16246998/minnesota-vikings-datone...
He does count around $3.8 against their cap but I wonder if they don't keep around for awhile (there is the designated to return thing) until they see if Sharrif Floyd can come off the NFI.
Bearmeat
September 04, 2017 at 11:20 am
I wouldn't blame McCaffery one little bit if that was his decision. Our WR depth is loaded. Bummer for him that he's going to NO - who also has a loaded depth chart - albeit less than us.
RE: Datone - He went up to 290 to play 3 Tech for the Vikings I heard. That's too heavy for an elephant end, and we all saw how useless he was as a 5 tech.
Plus, if I were him, I wouldn't want to come back to GB. He's miscast in a 34 D and has been since before Ted drafted him. He'll find a home as a situational DE on a 43 roster. Decent, not great player. Certainly a 1st round disappointment, if not an outright bust.
RobinsonDavis
September 04, 2017 at 11:04 pm
One thing for sure, New Orleans & Dallas were scouting the Packers.
ThxJackVainisi
September 04, 2017 at 11:19 am
Bearmeat: "It seems MM and Co FINALLY convinced TT this was the case."
McCarthy said this about the depth at OLB before TC: "Feel good about the depth at outside linebacker," McCarthy said on Thursday. "This is probably as good of depth as we’ve had there in some time. I think you’ll really see some of our guys jump out when they get the pads on in training camp." Of course, there was no 'jumping out' once the pads went on. My point is while I don't know who, if anyone, convinced Thompson to be active in free agency, my guess is it wasn't McCarthy.
Before the last exhibition game, he said this about the OL depth: "I feel great about our offensive line depth. We have great numbers there." He feels "great" about it? Really? What would be great is if Thompson could ignore that foolish statement in the same way he did the previous one and find a vet to bolster OL depth.
I get that McCarthy doesn't want to openly criticize his players, but why say things that are demonstrably untrue? For example, how could depth that included Peppers, Jones, Elliott, and Fackrell be as good as depth with just Elliott, Fackrell and unknowns? That was just foolish. Why not say, 'it's a work in progress' or some other innocuous coach speak? Fans don't appreciate coach speak but it's better than saying something that's obviously not true.
Bearmeat
September 04, 2017 at 11:26 am
I think MM knew he was full of crap there. There is no benefit for him to tell the truth. It would hurt their bargaining power with other teams. It would put more pressure on their young players who are already struggling.
I think it was coach-speak for "lies. bigger lies. and damned lies."
:D
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 01:07 pm
How can you tell if TT or MM is feeding you misinformation?
Their lips are moving.
ThxJackVainisi
September 04, 2017 at 11:51 pm
Not a big deal but what bargaining power? Elliott wouldn't have returned a conditional end of the 7th round, nearly a UDFA, pick? Of course the HC, GM or anyone in the organization shouldn't provide "the enemy" with information, but saying stupid shit just looks... stupid. And it doesn't fool anyone. Of course what they do is much, much more important than what they say.
GatorJason
September 04, 2017 at 08:05 am
The concept of traditional 3-4 / 4-3 defenses has gotten blurred with the expanded use of hybrid linebackers and slot corners. Everything is geared toward stopping the pass by giving up size in exchange for more speed and agility on defense.
The front line rushers have to be disruptive and rely on back seven to cover threats or quickly fill gaps on run plays. You are likely to see more sacks and turnovers created and at the same time more slashing runs with big gains allowed. Teams are willing to risk giving up those big runs as the trade to upgrade pass defense. Very few teams are built to win with a sustained running attack. NFL rules make it too easy to win with short passes and pick plays than traditional runs.
Heavy hall of fame linebackers like Nitschke, Butkus, and Lanier wouldn't prosper in today's game. Good young ILBs like Ryan and Martinez have a diminished role against teams who don't have a top tier running attack. They’ll still be used, perhaps even in the starting base defense but will be pulled quickly if it appears the opponent’s game plan is to exploit them with speed matchups.
Recent Packer picked ups Ahmad Brooks and Chris Odom have attributes of being more disruptive and physical than the guys they replaced. They bring more "juice" to the attack as Ted would say. They are another couple pieces in the transformation the Packers are making to be a more pressure/attacking/ disruption oriented defense and rely on outstanding safety talent to minimize the impact of "leakers" who slip through the initial line of defense.
dblbogey
September 04, 2017 at 08:53 am
Nitschke, Butkus and Lanier would certainly prosper in any era.
Thegreatreynoldo
September 05, 2017 at 03:53 am
Butkus in particular was excellent in coverage.
Edit: Butkus is listed at 245 lbs. He averaged 2.44 interceptions per season, and had at least one interception every season he played.
Since'61
September 04, 2017 at 10:14 am
Absolutely! Thanks, Since '61
Mojo
September 04, 2017 at 12:11 pm
Nitschke's playing weight of around 235 would be considered light by today's standards
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 01:08 pm
So would Larry McCarren's 245 lbs.
pooch
September 04, 2017 at 08:14 am
Odom will be a surprise force this year
NickPerry
September 04, 2017 at 08:20 am
I'm thinking the same thing. Fans from Atlanta weren't too happy about losing Odom. Now wouldn't it be something if Odom terrorized Mattie Ice week two. OMG...How awesome would that be...LOL.
TKWorldWide
September 04, 2017 at 08:20 am
If OLB is a mystery to GB, imagine how confused GB's opponents will be when trying to prepare for them!
~
marpag1
September 04, 2017 at 08:22 am
I like the look of the Packers OLBs quite a bit better now than I did before. CMIII, Perry, Brooks, Fackrell, and Odom, with Biegel in the wings doesn't seem half bad to me. It's not awesome, but not terrible either.
Let's see how Odom performs, but I like him as well or better than Elliot. If he and Biegel turn out to be competent, dump Fackrell. I don't see upside in the guy, and he was old when he was drafted. Elliot has never been more than a ST guy, and didn't seem to have upside anymore either. I never saw much in Gilbert beyond "an interesting prospect" who may or may not make it.
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 11:01 am
Odom has been characterized as a guy who can set the edge, whereas Elliot could but often chose not to. I don't think he's a step back, really, except for his inexperience in the system.
Handsback
September 04, 2017 at 08:44 am
While I'm inclined to agree with Jason, I don't think this year's squad can compare to last year's results. The OLBs are a little muddled, but on the very important aspect of pass coverage...the Packers have some good (not great) cover guys. The key I think to the Packer's defense lies in the trenches. They have three guys that are very actice and can put pressure on the QB in the middle. That kind of disruption spreads opennings along the whole front for the rest of the defense to take advantage of it. The other area of improvement is the safeties. They are fast and arrive in a bad mood. So it looks like Dom is using those two areas to put pressure on the other team's offense and the OLBs will have some sacks that weren't there last year. Think of an analog watch, when all the pieces are working together...that will be Green Bay's defense this year.
The discussions about Jones being released from the Vikings, just reconfirms TT's choice of not bringing him back. Maybe at a low number Jones could be signed, but he probably would rather try another team first. He would have to play OLB and I don't know if his body type could do it. Maybe he needs another year of seasoning before he can break out...I don't know. I saw him do in the Senior Bowl what MT. Adams did this past year so he' has some skills that for some reason aren't carrying over to the field.
porupack
September 04, 2017 at 08:55 am
I like TT making the move on Odom, though honestly, I don't have any idea about him. Not sure about Brooks. Guess we don't know what legal or NFL punishment he might face.
What puzzles me is why load up on WRs in draft, and not take more chances on draftees at the OLB position. Were there not any good candidates in Rd 5, and a gamble in Rd 7? Seems like the pipeline on OLB position is thinner.
I'm asking, more than complaining. I don't follow college football and know the player prospects other than what I read. Thanks for thoughts.
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 11:03 am
If you look at many of the drafted OLB types in rounds 5-7, they're on practice squads now. Thanks to Atlanta for finding this guy for the Packers who many felt played well enough to make their roster.
RobinsonDavis
September 04, 2017 at 10:54 pm
Packers wanted him, but as I understand it, when free agency opened after the draft, Atlanta offered considerably more in upfront money.
Ferrari Driver
September 04, 2017 at 09:01 am
It should come as no surprise that the Packers are deficient regarding top pass rushers.
The difference makers are found near the top of the annual draft and two decades of being one of the top teams in the NFL have left the Packers drafting well into the bottom half of the draft most every year. Guys like Miller and Watt simply are long gone when the Packers get to make their first selection. It's simply the NFL's way of leveling the playing field and trying to bolster the weaker teams.
Credit Favre and now Rodgers and the Packers solid coaches and General managers (wolf and Thompson) for a job well done.
Bottom line: It simply isn't easy to avoid weak area on an NFL teams. Perhaps New England and Green Bay are the two teams closest to being called dynasties in the modern era.
Mojo
September 04, 2017 at 11:36 am
I'd throw Pittsburgh in there too.
You're right, it's tough to get the premium pass-rushers outside of the top 15 picks. Everyone wants one, considering the importance of the position, and the good ones usually don't fall to far.
badaxed
September 04, 2017 at 09:02 am
Weak link in defensive chain "Fackrell".
Weak link in offensive chain "Spriggs"
Best move: getting "Brooks"
Worst move: Letting "McCaffery" and Price go.
Thegreatreynoldo
September 04, 2017 at 10:04 am
I agree with Chugwater below. Fackrell has become a narrative. The truth is he played in real NFL games better than I or most expected last season, and had some of the problems foretold. No, he didn't appear better in the preseason games. I see a lot potential weak links in the defensive chain:
1. Whoever the CB opposite House is.
2. Whoever the CB playing the star position is.
3. Martinez (but wondering how much he plays).
4. Joe Thomas (ditto).
5. Fackrell (wonder if Odom sees the field for a while?).
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 11:05 am
Odom might be a healthy scratch week 1, but I think he could play in the "see QB, get QB" role that best suited Elliot in obvious passing situations.
HankScorpio
September 04, 2017 at 10:35 am
It's nice to have the weak links of the team be guys that are not expected to play much.
chugwater
September 04, 2017 at 09:29 am
Why do I get the feeling that with all the Fackrell bashing that's been taking place over the past 6 weeks, he's going to have a sack on Wilson next Sunday in the opener?
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 11:06 am
With that OL, if Seattle isn't getting any production on the ground, I suspect Wilson is going to be running for his life.
chugwater
September 04, 2017 at 01:20 pm
True.
I can also see Daniels, Lowry, and Clark collapsing the pocket and the OLBs being the beneficiaries of Wilson having to scramble outside into their open arms.
HankScorpio
September 04, 2017 at 09:33 am
I'm not exactly doing back flips over the OLB group but there is more to work with in 2017 than there has been in the past.
And somehow, someway, Capers usually finds a way to have the Packers in the top 10 in sacks. With some solid inside rush and DB blitzers to supplement the outside pass rush, I don't expect 2017 to be any different.
Overall, I feel pretty good about there being enough defense to put the Packers in the top 10 overall heading into the season. With Rodgers leading the offense, that's plenty to get the job done.
JohnnyLogan
September 04, 2017 at 10:07 am
Is it possible that Capers isn't the reason we are top ten in sacks but because we usually score a lot and the other teams have to pass to catch up, giving us more opportunities for sacks? I've never felt that we were particularly good at rushing the passer without blitzing, which sometimes hits home, but more often than not leaves the middle of the field wide open. Is there a team worse at stopping 3rd and long, seeing TE's, receivers and backs as open as a kid in the park playing catch with his dad. That's Capers defense, not changed in years. Giving Capers credit for anything somehow just feels wrong.
HankScorpio
September 04, 2017 at 10:32 am
The offense is not expected to turn into a grind it out type of offense this year so whatever the reason, I don't think this year will be any different.
I don't want to get into a "Fire Capers!!" sidebar, I probably should have left his name out of the original comment. I'll plead guilty to not thinking that through thoroughly enough.
I've jumped on and off that train plenty of times myself. Whatever you, I or anyone not named Mike McCarthy thinks, he is the DC now because McCarthy thinks he can get the job done. So as a Packer fan, I'm going to hope that McCarthy is right.
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 12:45 pm
That's far more than possible. Our best pass rusher is Aaron Rodgers.
flackcatcher
September 04, 2017 at 09:44 am
Slightly OT. I wonder what happened to Mike Neal. Does the league have a soft ban on him.
Oppy
September 04, 2017 at 12:29 pm
I found this: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/09/02/nfl-still-investigating-...
I seem to remember thinking that it was starting to look like Mike Neal might have been a common connection in a few different PED links.
I am now starting to wonder if he wasn't just using.. but if he was entangled with supplying. We'll probably never know.. But if he is STILL being investigated, that would be a bad sign.
flackcatcher
September 04, 2017 at 11:19 pm
Thanks. Reading that story it explains a great deal. If he's in that deep, God help him.
Thegreatreynoldo
September 04, 2017 at 10:07 am
"I can only hope that some of these new defensive looks and schemes are wildly successful."
Just remember that if it is successful early, teams we play later will have tape of it, whereas our early opponents won't. Capers might have to keep evolving as the season progresses, and as the players get more comfortable with it.
Mojo
September 04, 2017 at 11:53 am
There was a show on last night about NE's SB run and one of the aspects of the broadcast was how detailed the Patriots were studying film of their opponents.
They had some film grunts going over nearly every tendency of every player including what foot Julio Jones was planting off of since his injury.
I suspect every team has it's legion of film grunts and fairly early in any season have an idea as to how their opponent is going to attack them.
The question is can you give them a number of unscouted looks and execute them to give you a two or three play advantage over the course of a game.
Dzehren
September 04, 2017 at 11:00 am
IOLB group has been upgraded. I like the fact we have 4 developmental guys- Biegel,Gilbert, Odom and Fackrell A couple of these guys will pan out plus we have veteran Brooks.
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 11:07 am
"If the defense is constantly having to deploy a defensive back to get pressure, there's one less guy to cover....Opposing offenses dinking and dunking all day means a tired defense when it's time to close out games."
I'd rather take my chances being aggressive than rushing 3 and crossing my fingers...
Since'61
September 04, 2017 at 12:10 pm
The first key for this season's Packer defense will be health. If they can remain healthy I think that Capers will play Perry and Brooks at OLB with CM3 inside and a hybrid safety (Burnett or Jones) at ILB on many downs.
The second key will be how well our corners can hold up in one-on-one coverage. If they hold up and we can get pressure from our DL and OLBs we will be able to cover the middle of the field.
Last season, due to the loss of Shields, Capers needed to play two high safeties to try to support the dreadful CB coverage. This often left the middle of the field open for easy pickings by opposing QBs. Our CBs were either injured (Randall, Rollins) and/or too slow (Gunter, Hyde) to be effective against good QBs and receiving corps.
Our speed at CB will be improved this season, so health is the key there.
Our pass rush doesn't always need to get home (sack) but it needs to be felt consistently. With CM3 and Jones playing inside we can rush one or both them in certain situations, in addition to the DL and OLBs.
Ultimately, our games will come down to building a lead, stopping the run, forcing the pass and getting a turnover or two. If this defense stays healthy they should be able to that and Rodgers can take care of the rest.
Thanks, Since '61
chugwater
September 04, 2017 at 01:25 pm
I'd be very surprised if CM3 were to play in the middle. With new veterans and young players at the OLB position Dom will rely on CM3 and Perry as much as possible until the other guys get more experience in this defense.
Since'61
September 04, 2017 at 02:49 pm
Brooks played very well in 49ers 3 - 4 defense. Also, I'm not saying that CM3 will play every down inside but I'm thinking that he should move inside on 2nd and long and on 3rd and long.
In those situations we would have Daniels, Perry, Brooks and CM3 to rush the passer plus either Clark or Lowry, sometimes both. If any of the rushers are double teamed one of the others should have a pretty clear shot at the QB.
Or we could send Jones in on a blitz up the middle or both he and CM3. The flip side would be that both Jones and CM3 could drop into coverage and shut down the middle if we are getting sufficient pressure with Daniels, Clark, Perry and Brooks.
If this defense stays healthy they can generate many different looks and have many options for generating pressure and creating turnovers. Also, this defense will be faster than most of our previous defensive units. That should be a factor as well.
It is not necessary for the Packers defense to be great. Just good enough to let Rodgers and the offense win. Hold opponents to under 24 points and we'll be fine.
Thanks, Since '61
chugwater
September 04, 2017 at 03:30 pm
I agree Dom has a lot of options to put pressure on the QB. Just don't think he's anxious to put CM3 in the middle.
Thanks S61.
croatpackfan
September 04, 2017 at 12:21 pm
"Defensive Coordinator Dom Capers hopefully also sees the reality. It's his job to put what guys he has in the best position to do as much damage as possible. Perhaps by subtraction, the rest of the defense will step up and become better. That's a hope right now, not a certainty."
We are doomed. We have DC (Dom Capers) who, by author, does not recognize s*it regarding D, but he is still DC. We hope he will recognize something! We hope Packers players will play good. They are player w/o talent and energy and they are very lousy coached, so we can only hope that the rest of the defense can remember something from their college days and snaps here and there played OK.
When we look at this, we (?), I mean Packers has GM who can not recognize that his choice for HC (Mike McCarthy) can not recognize that his DC can not recognize a s*it. WE ARE DOOMED.
Maybe willl be the best if we just say that we (?), I mean Packers are so bad that it is the best to sit out the whole season and finish at 0-16 and have the 1st pick next season draft. Why I'm saying that. Because at least 12 teams in NFL are perfect; e. g. Patriots, Seahawks, Falcons, Steelers, Cowboys, Cardinals, Ravens, Broncos, Chiefs, Raiders, Buccaniers, Panthers. Not perfect, but much better are Saints, Chargers, Texans, Titans, Jags, Rams, Vikings, Giants, Bengals, Dolphins. Last groups are the teams against which packers has small chances but has, teams like Browns, Jets, Bills, Lions, Bears, Niners, Philadelphia, Redskins, Colts. It is embarrassing.
Well my fellow fans. I know that I will got lot of downvotes. But I refuse to spit on any player who is playing for team I support and to be afraid that team I like and support is so weak, that I can only hope they may play something.
Maybe that is because I'm not stockholder. But dear Packers stockholders, just to inform you that you will not lose or win anything by the achievement of the Packers - good or bad, because that is not that kind of stocks.
Sorry that I am writing so long post. I will finish. I think my - not yours - Packers will do just fine, despite some problems on the roster here and there. Yours Packers are doomed! Not mine.
Because of that I will enjoy next season. You will be nervous. I will accept inevitable (bad or good), you'll asked for someone or more than one head. Because of that I'm thankful that players put their health in jeopardy for my entertainment, doesn't matter how slow or small or injured they might be. I know that player who plays for my Packers are giving all from themselves and I will be thankful for that.
And I'll give you one promise. On this type of articles I will not comment any more. Here is so much negative energy.
And last sentence, Jasone, as far as I see there is a hope right now, not a certainty that this season of NFL will start this weekend, because who knows what NK and USA may do in the mean time (please, I'm supporter of NK!).
Thank you!
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 12:34 pm
You support North Korea?
Ummmm....
croatpackfan
September 04, 2017 at 01:09 pm
Typo! I'm not!
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 01:14 pm
Okay :)
Happens to all of us :)
croatpackfan
September 04, 2017 at 01:39 pm
That is sure thing... ;-) Should I say certain?
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 01:40 pm
:)
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 12:30 pm
Daniels-Clark-Lowry are one of the league's best D-Lines. Perry is upper tier. Josh Jones is the best blitzing safety I've seen in many years on this team.
That's our main pass rush, along with Matthews coming on stunts.
If Odom finds his comfort zone as an edge guy on 3rd downs, we could be just fine. Brooks could sneak through on occasion as well.
It's not a Denver or Seattle group, but the cupboard isn't bare, either.
Bearmeat
September 04, 2017 at 03:40 pm
Our DL should be solid. But it's not "one of the leagues best." However, if our defense is top half and the starting 5 OL stay healthy, that very well could be enough for Title #14.
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 04:25 pm
You know, I really think it is one of the league's best. We have 3 excellent starters, with decent depth.
And hey, I'm supposedly one of the big pessimists around here. :)
Bearmeat
September 04, 2017 at 05:42 pm
You, sir, are more optimistic than me. In this case. lol.
Neither of us are Cow's though. :D
dschwalm
September 04, 2017 at 12:31 pm
No matter how many optimists there are about our pass rush, I just don't see them containing good QBs like Ryan, Russel, Prescott, Big Ben, to name a few on their schedule
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 12:36 pm
It is hard to believe this group will bring heavy pressure. But maybe they'll bring enough so an improved secondary can make some plays, allowing Rodgers to put teams away.
Sound possible?
dobber
September 04, 2017 at 01:11 pm
Those guys are good because few teams CAN contain them...
...and I think you give Dak Prescott too much credit to put him in that group.
Andrew Lloyd Peth
September 04, 2017 at 01:25 pm
I certainly put Dak's O-Line in that group.
RobinsonDavis
September 04, 2017 at 11:51 pm
Did anybody consider that Gilbert could be placed back on the active roster? When looking at OLBs, you have two new guys (one unproven), two nicked up starters, another on the PUP, and one other who is at least healthy going into this game and the next.. I am expecting Seattle to run and use the short passing game a lot, (so get your hands up men! and let's press those receivers/TEs). If Wilson gets out of the pocket, he will look for deeper throws. Containing him will be key.
Finwiz
September 05, 2017 at 01:19 pm
It seems rather clear GB knows they have a problem at this position given the trade of Elliott and the free agent signings. I'd say Fackrell (not Frackrell you idjuts) is on thin ice with this team, having been relatively close to as ineffective as Elliott. I actually like Elliott better, but that's not saying much, he only yielded a 7th round draft choice. It seems clear they've decided a big part of their problem in implementing the Capers scheme is the talent, or lack thereof, of the players they had last year.
It also seems clear they know their 2 starters will not remain healthy for 16 game.
Part of fixing the problem is finally admitting/realizing you have one. It appears the Packers have finally faced reality and come to the conclusion quite a few of last years defensive players weren't very good. Once again I'm starting to wonder about Ted. What took him so long?