Cory's Corner: So Much Promise At Wideout
What looked like a weakness has turned into a strength.
Remember when we were unsure about this wide receiving corps?
Who would step up from a group that had included Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs and Samori Toure — the trio were the only incoming three that played more than a snap in a regular season game. The entire receiving group heading into the season only had 88 combined receptions.
“I would say the challenge is getting someone caught up to the playbook because you don’t want to hear a route and go out there and thinking about what the route actually is,” said Packers wide receivers coach Jason Vrable during training camp.
Amazingly enough, second-round rookie Jayden Reed has been the Packers best wideout with 171 yards after the catch, but fifth-round rookie Dontayvion Wicks might be the most electric.
“There’s been reps he’s had even back to the spring where everybody’s like, ‘Whoa, that’s that old 17 stuff,” Vrable said on Monday. “Like, Tae.”
Just to be mentioned along with Davante Adams is really something. Adams is one of the best Packers wideouts of all-time thanks to precise route running and amazing body control. The 6-foot-1, 206-pound receiver has done an amazing job of finding soft spots in zones and has become an interesting safety valve for Jordan Love.
Then there’s Watson who is getting 16.7 yards per reception. He’s the deep threat that can get behind a defense and make them pay and Doubs is the guy that might have the strongest hands on the team. The 24-yard touchdown pass against the Chargers he basically snatched out of the air with a defender draped all over him.
What has looked like a weakness a few months ago has quickly turned into a strength. This crew has so much explosion, speed, energy and most importantly… so much promise.
This is a really good situation for Love. He gets to learn and grow with a new crop of wideouts. And ironically, there were a lot of people that wanted Marquez Valdes-Scantling to stay, but with seven drops in the last two seasons in Kansas City, that move is paying off. The Chiefs have one of the best quarterbacks in the game, but the receiving corps has been unable to take flight as tight end Travis Kelce leads the team in receiving yardage for the second straight year.
Mahomes is due $59.3 million in total cash this season but does it really matter if his receivers are average at best?
The best position group for the Packers this season looks like the receivers. If they are this good now, imagine how good they can become?
TD! Romeo Doubs for the lead!pic.twitter.com/FqCqXULYk1https://t.co/2RT7giYU5Y
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 19, 2023
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__________________________
Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn
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Comments (137)
T7Steve
November 28, 2023 at 06:30 am
Cory, we could go on and on about these receivers. It's fun.
Until the O-line catches up to them, the receivers and Love are as good as they can get. The pass blocking has been standing up, but not for long if they don't start getting a running game for the poor QB and get the target off his back.
Say all you want about the drops KC has been going through. They're winning still. because they started/have been producing in the ground game.
Untylu1968
November 28, 2023 at 07:22 am
It seems every year we do a triple dip at one position in the draft. One would have to believe it has to be the O- lines turn, since they totally ignored it last year...?
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 08:13 am
To be fair they could ignore the OL in this draft because the previous 3 drafts they drafted 3 OL in each of them.
2020- Runyan, Hanson Stepaniak
2021 - Myers, Newman, Van Lanen
2022 - Rhyan, Tom, Walker
Not saying they are all stud picks, but they did spend 3 draft picks in each of those years on the position.
But I would agree that they very well could try to go for 3 again. We don't know what will happen with Bakhtiari, Jenkins and Tom are our rocks on the OL. We don't know about Myers and how they truly feel about him. It feels like they want to move to Rhyan at RG but they aren't trusting him for some reason. They need to build more depth and players to push the starters.
HawkPacker
November 28, 2023 at 12:08 pm
I would say that at this point they will select one tackle and one interior OL in the first 5 picks. They need at least one safety and a running back as well that should be taken in the first 5 picks as well. That leaves one pick left for another position.
jannesbjornson
November 28, 2023 at 10:10 am
Yes, over indulge after leaving the cupboard bare. Not a very sound strategy when you need 22 components to function as a winning team.
Minniman
November 28, 2023 at 01:00 pm
For me, I like the idea of drafting several candidates when the position in the draft is deep.
Jones as a 5th rounder is still around, whereas the 4th rounder (Williams) is gone.
OL and RB are probably the main two positions that need attention this offseason.
WestCoastPackerBacker
November 28, 2023 at 02:34 pm
Safety? Cornerback?
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:35 pm
After the draft everybody was saying our S room was bare. I point out how much O line talent isn't playing, and those who are are being coached TERRIBLY. If that isn't corrected, any pick would be wasted on that group.
Individual footwork, and the rest of the fundamentals. Get Butkus OUT of Green Bay!
NickPerry
November 28, 2023 at 07:45 am
Great post Steve... The Packers O-Line and D-Line will be what will determine the success of this team moving forward. It is what it is right now, they sure in the hell can't run block but the pass blocking has been better. They'll need BOTH to be better against the Chiefs for a shot.
I'd also imagine Meyers, Runyan, and Walker are all wondering (And RIGHTFULLY so) if they'll be here next season. I'm imagine Walker will be kept, but I think the Packers draft at least 2 O-Linemen in the upcoming draft and it's wouldn't surprise me if the 1st pick is for an OT.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 08:17 am
I saw a clip on Twitter/X that showed every snap that Rhyan had against the Lions. I have no clue why he isn't starting. He was damn good! He is really good in the run game and was good in the passing game as well. I can't say for certain but it felt like Myers was better with Rhyan next to him as well.
I want to see a full game of Rhyan next to Myers to see if Myers looks better. Because I do feel like Myers has gotten a lot of blame of things that wasn't necessarily his fault. (I'm not saying he is perfect or anything like that).
I think they will draft at least 2 OL. An OT for sure, and probably an interior guy.
T7Steve
November 28, 2023 at 08:24 am
"I think they will draft at least 2 OL. An OT for sure, and probably an interior guy."
Don't they seem to only draft tackles and try to convert them to IOL?
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 08:54 am
They do that a lot. Newman, Rhyan are 2 of the latest examples. They were OT's in college and have transitioned to the inside.
One of the main reasons why they have done that is that T's in college are typically more athletic. The Packers like their athletic and versatile OL.
jannesbjornson
November 28, 2023 at 10:16 am
Then Rhyan should beat out Nijman , or Walker if given a shot at LT. His arm length may not have followed the formula.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 10:30 am
Rhyan was never going to be a T in the pros. He’s a guy who needs not to be operating in space. The same is true of Newman, with his lack of lateral ability, but that didn’t stop Stenovich trying over both Nijman and Tom.
A year ago, Nijman was a viable starter and our best Ol in the run game. Now I bet he can’t wait to get away. Runyon has gone backwards, even in a contract year and Myers isn’t progressing. Even Jenkins is up and down.
Out ypc with Rhyan in is more than double than with Runyon. Of course it’s too small a sample to rely on and they keep it that way.
We don’t know what it would be with Tom at C and Walker/Jones at RT. Nijman was by far our best rated OL in the run game versus the Lions, but we still took him out. He was better in pass pro than Walker, but Walker was better than Myers or Runyon.
I’ve seldom seen a group of players so undermined by their coaches.
jannesbjornson
November 28, 2023 at 01:12 pm
One would expect his #3 pick would supplant the guy he was drafted to replace. The LT will be addressed in rd One. I would go 1-2-3 with the O line and snag a RB with juice to replace A.Jones, who has become a part-time player.
Rhyan had a 5.2 sec 40 time, which is slower than both Nijman and Zach Tom's sub 5.0 timing. Walker would be another candidate for Guard. The faster Edge guys blow right past him.
Packers2020
November 28, 2023 at 02:46 pm
Jannes,
LT may be addressed in round 1. If we keep winning, the top 4 OT's will not be there anymore. It all depends on the draft spot.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:53 pm
Walker is 6'6" and listed at 324, and you want him at guard.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 11:08 am
Rhyan was definitely drafted to play interior. Very similar to Runyan in that they were drafted to specifically play inside.
I think Rhyan has played well at RG when given a chance. I think he needs to be the starter there.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:50 pm
Rhyan is 6'5". Keep him on the interior. Mt Caleb, Nijman and Walker are OT. Maybe not in that order, but - maybe in that order? Zach Tom is 6'4", he should be on the interior. I'm not saying these changes can be made mid-season, but imagine an IOL of Jenkins Tom Rhyan!
Should've been the focus of TC; we wouldn't be 5-6, I'll guarantee THAT. Two more wins would have been very doable from this change ALONE. JL10's development would be on a completely different path, and much better.
Everyone else in the position group is bigger. Drafting O linemen needs to focus on the interior; either that or "blue chip," trying for an upgrade at OT. Rarely does that contribute as a rookie.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:41 pm
OT > IOL has been maxed out as a strategy and no longer works, unless you consider guys above 6'7" as viable on the interior. They need to either make Zach Tom the starter at C or draft a dedicated (and great) C. While he's doing amazingly well, he's playing out of position. He doesn't have the size to dominate at OT. And we have several players who DO. We need to get them on film ...
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:38 pm
I saw Mike Spofford's film analysis, and while it wasn't a focus point, Rhyan looked VERY good. While JRJ did not. I don't agree that Rhyan needs to immediately get 100% of the snaps, but closer to 50% would give a better evaluation. I agree Myers seems to play better next to Rhyan.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 04:20 pm
Two weak points together magnify the struggles of both. That’s why C is the very worst place to be sub par. It’s quite possible a good C relevates play at both G positions. However, a stronger G should help since we won’t move Tom and play Nijman, Walker or Jones at RT.
NickPerry
November 28, 2023 at 05:05 pm
"I saw a clip on Twitter/X that showed every snap that Rhyan had against the Lions. I have no clue why he isn't starting. He was damn good!"
UGH!!! I know!!! On the money RC. I'm hoping they take a LT in the 1st and a Center after that. Then next season plug Rhyan in at RG.
LambeauPlain
November 28, 2023 at 10:45 am
The Packers are heading into the 12th game of the season and the coaching staff is still conducting interviews for the OL. Butkus claims LT and now RG will be musical chairs because the competition is making all 4 so much better. SMH
Really. How imaginative and creative! How about a competition C? Tom can compete with Myers and make both better! How about giving Jenks a challenge at LG? Maybe Newman, while pushing Jenks to improve will show he belongs in the NFL too. While we are at it, let give Caleb some chances at RT while inspiring Tom to be more than he can be. The OL can look like a Dom Capers wholesale substitution of players between plays.
Apologize for being cynical...but I have rarely, if ever, seen such constipated coaching decision making for a Packer OL.
Dang it, MLF...who are the best 5 OL you always claim you will play? Coaches need to do their jobs and evaluate players and start the best team...especially for the OL position group that performs best with synergy, cohesiveness, and communication.
To me a continuous lineup of Yosh, Jenks, Myers, Rhyan, Tom need stay on the field and power both the pass and the run. (In my dreams move Tom to C and have Yosh and Sheed at Ts...unlikely)
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:58 pm
LP,
what this is saying but no one will admit is the coaching staff failed to do its job at TC, at least in terms of developing and evaluating the O line.
Apparently the price of that failure will continue to be paid, all season long ...
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:29 pm
I've watched a lot of film of that Detroit win and our O line kept JL out of trouble but BARELY on SO many plays!
Absolutely they need to continue to improve.
Very sad to see Bo Melton released, hopefully Gutey's planning on bringing him back.
I do not agree with this article, I've always believed in the talent in this WR room. They deserve a real position group coach, Vrable is shit.
Right now I think the winning strategy is to have JL target fewer people, strengthen his connection with Reed, Wicks, and hopefully Kraft can take over for Musgrave. Those 3 have emerged as the most reliable, with Reed getting open the most. Sure, throw it to #9 when he's actually open, and Doubs is an added threat.
Dillon has been catching everything thrown to him! Make the easy layups, JL ...
WestCoastPackerBacker
November 28, 2023 at 03:52 pm
Why be sad about a WR that is 7th on the depth chart? How many snaps is he going to ever see? Is there something he can do better than any of the rest of the corps? Love is also connecting with Watson more often, which is very important, and Doubs just keeps scoring, so the more Love can utilize the strengths of the various WRs, the tougher it is for a defense to plan for it.
Cheezehead72
November 28, 2023 at 06:31 am
Last week I made the comment that Watson should be the #4 WR. It appears he read the comment as he had a very good game on Thursday. But maybe that was because Wicks did not play. It will be interesting to see these WRs go against the Chiefs' defense. Mahomes' 2023 salary is 67.3% of the whole Packers' offensive salary.
Maybe the economical car will beat the luxury car.
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 09:16 am
Yes, definitely your comment that improved his play.
NickPerry
November 28, 2023 at 06:49 am
I don't always agree with Cory, especially the titles of his articles here on CHTV, but this one I absolutely 100% agree with him on.
I had my doubts at the start of the season. Those doubts by about week 5 or 6 starting looking like the truth. I began to wonder if Watson would EVER get it. Doubs was a nice WR but a #1? Then there was Reed who I LOVED at the time of the draft but I didn't look at him as a #1 WR either. Wicks, hey great steal in the draft but STILL a 5th round pick so MEH.
By the time the Packers play their 12th game this weekend against the big bad Chiefs, I like what the Packers are building at the WR and TE positions. After the Vikings game I wondered WTF Gutey was thinking. HOW in the HELL was Jordan Love ever going to develop, grow each week, and be better with a bunch of dudes, who are the youngest skill position group EVER in the modern SB era?
I think the BEST thing MLF has done this season is after a loss (Can't remember the exact game) he said in his press conference, "Enough with the EXCUSES of being young".
Up to that point every time the WRs messed up the excuses were YOUTH. But as LaFleur made his point in public he was talking to his team. Yes you're rookies but now you're rookies with experience. Just STOP with the BS excuses, pull up the ole Jock Strap, and go out and perform. NO EXCUSES anymore.
That's EXACTLY what this young team has done. I've been VERY critical of LaFleur, Vrable, and really that entire staff this year and to be honest I'm not exactly stoked about the thought of them being here next year either, But that's probably EXACTLY what will happen. But they've also done a pretty decent job these last few weeks.
I'm not ready to call Reed, Wicks, Doubs, and Watson the next Driver, Jennings, Jones, and Cobb. I'm not ready to sign Jordan Love to a huge extension. But I'm excited as hell to watch them against the Chiefs on Sunday.
I can't stand Steve Spagnuolo. It dates back to the 2007 NFCCG when his Giants Defense ripped out my heart at Lambeau. Then in 2021 he blitzed the living shit out of Love. I would expect nothing else from "Spaggs" this Sunday Night. But this Sunday if MLF, Butkus, and Steno can get the O-Line playing like we thought they'd look like at the start of the season, I think the Packers AND these young WRs can make a run.
NickPerry
November 28, 2023 at 06:50 am
HOLY CRAP... That was a REALLY long comment...Sorry guys, too much coffee this AM!
PackEyedOptimist
November 28, 2023 at 06:56 am
😃
T7Steve
November 28, 2023 at 07:07 am
HA!
Was wondering how I beat you to post time. You're usually the first to post. Now I see why.
Worth it. Good post. Glad you agree with me about it being the O-line that will determine how these guys progress. I hate to nag, but it's really the most important part of the team going forward along with the D-line.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 08:20 am
lol, its easy once you get going to keep going. I love Talking Packers and that is exactly why my posts get lengthy as well.
Good post though.
NickPerry
November 28, 2023 at 10:56 am
Lol...Thanks RC...
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 02:59 pm
No apologies needed!
HawkPacker
November 28, 2023 at 12:26 pm
BS Nick. Your comment was just fine. It was a great read and I agree with most if not all of it. Well done!
HawkPacker
November 28, 2023 at 12:28 pm
Some posts are like one long paragraph that is hard to read. Or there are some with so much punctuation issues as well as misspellings that they are tough to read. Nicely done Nick.
NickPerry
November 28, 2023 at 05:08 pm
Thank you Hawk!
croatpackfan
November 28, 2023 at 02:00 pm
Never apologize for good things you do, when you did!
SensualInfluence
November 28, 2023 at 08:03 am
Sweet novel, dork. Your comment is as long as the article.
LambeauPlain
November 28, 2023 at 10:49 am
Somebody needs their coffee this AM.
NickPerry
November 28, 2023 at 10:55 am
Hmmm...Why do I have to be a "Dork"?
You could have just gave it the ole "Thumbs Down", or left a comment agreeing it was long as hell and moved on with your day.
HawkPacker
November 28, 2023 at 12:29 pm
Nick, I know some pretty cool dorks!
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 09:42 am
Is there a quarterback situation in our division better than GB? The Vikings are either going to have to re-sign an aging (and recovering from significant injury) Kirk Cousins or invest serious money in another free agent or big draft capital in a rookie. Jared Goff is always going to be Jared Goff, and the Bears are going to have to start over with a draft pick at QB. Of course you re-sign Jordan Love, it's a no-brainer at this point.
I watched Vikings Bears last night. The horror.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 07:02 am
I see this as getting ahead of ourselves, but something that may yet eventually prove true. I’d be happy if I saw more growth from Watson in terms of what he can do. It’s there in terms of talent, just needs him to want it and coaches to develop it. Doubs too needs to break out of his current box. Reed needs to be more consistent. All of these things are what I’d expect individually of young players.
If LaFleur doesn’t retreat into caution and Love can stay close to the level of the last couple of games, it’s going to help the receivers not only through opportunities to show their abilities but also by getting defenses to start worrying about who to cover and thus creating favorable coverages.
If only we had a run game I think we’d be further ahead at receiver. The OL is a lead weight in that respect. It looks like the catchers and QB are going to have to do it without much help. That’s more impressive if they succeed but equally unacceptable from the coaches.
T7Steve
November 28, 2023 at 07:22 am
"That’s more impressive if they succeed but equally unacceptable from the coaches."
Why do you think these guys have a mental block when it comes to the line? It's not like it's the first time they've struggled to field a competent or cohesive unit. As long as they're experimenting (which should have been done in training camp), why don't they try any of the others, like Caleb Jones who's been in-active this whole season, and I think last season too.
PeteK
November 28, 2023 at 08:10 am
--Jones and Rhyan are not playing much because they obviously have not shown anything in training camp, preseason, or practice. What other reason could there be?
--O line players have been drafted and signed. Runyan, Myers, Nijman and probably Walker and Rhyan (only second year and could develop) are backups, but give credit for finding a RT (Tom) in the 4th round.
-- The Bak injury and contract (I don't blame FO he was a healthy pro bowler at the time) had a very negative effect on the O line.
--Six more games for development and 5 picks in top 100.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 09:16 am
Jones was getting plaudits in camp up to the last week or so when Walker became the sudden darling and moved him from his LT role backing up Nijman and Bakh.
Rhyan started slow but finished strong but got ignored for Runyon and Newman, a guy who stunned most writers as well as fans by just how poorly he played. He was actually better in season but still so bad he’s now finally out of the reckoning.
No, camp/preseason didn’t predict either outcome as you suggest.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:07 pm
Pete, at TC Mt Caleb was absolutely DOMINANT.
Coaching has failed, beginning with Butkus. Consider him a Bears plant here to ruin the Pack and get him the hell out of here.
Zach Tom is not an OT, he profiles on the interior. His best position is C.
Utter failure of coaching. Most importantly, nobody's covering fundamentals with this position group. It's destroying both the run game and JL's development. Plus the ability to evaluate #28.
Recent improvement doesn't make up for the trend.
Guam
November 28, 2023 at 08:17 am
I'm assuming the Packers #1 pick will be an LT next spring. Neither Walker nor Nijman have distinguished themselves at LT this year and I don't believe Jones has ever played an in-season snap so it seems he is just not ready yet. Given the lack of support from the coaching staff, I suspect Nijman will choose to play elsewhere next year. That would leave Walker as a backup behind Tom and pick #1 next year.
Or maybe the Packers give Walker a shot at RG. Walker is a powerful guy whose feet sometimes betray him at tackle against speed rushers. He is borderline too tall at 6'6" for a guard, but maybe... Otherwise the Packers will need to spend one of their #2's or #3's at guard to challenge RJR and Rhyan.
I think the Packers also need to spend one of their #2's on a center. Myers is just not consistent enough in the run game. The O-line needs significant reinforcements next year.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 09:06 am
"I'm assuming the Packers #1 pick will be an LT next spring."
Be careful assuming.
Since Gutey has taken over he has had 8 first round picks. He has used 1 of them on offense. That 1 is Jordan Love.
I would agree though that LT could be a very high on their list
Since we are on the subject, the 8 first round picks by Gutey are:
2018 - Jaire Alexander (pick 18)
2019 - Rashan Gary (pick 12), Darnell Savage (pick 21)
2020 - Jordan Love (pick 26)
2021 - Eric Stokes (pick 29)
2022 - Quay Walker (pick 22), Devonte Wyatt (pick 28) *
2023 - Van Ness (pick 13)
* - Packers took Christian Watson with the 34th pick overall, the 2nd pick in the 2nd round of the 22 draft. This was the next highest offensive player Gutey had taken.
Speaking of 2nd round picks
2018 - Josh Jackson (pick 45)
2019 - Elgton Jenkins (pick 44)
2020 - AJ Dillon (pick 62)
2021 - Josh Myers (pick 62)
2022 - Christian Watson (pick 34)
2023 - Luke Musgrave (pick 42), Jayden Reed (pick 50)
What is kind of funny about this and why I included this is because of Gutey's 8 first round picks, 7 of them have been on defense. Of Gutey's 7 2nd round picks 6 of them have been on offense.
Guam
November 28, 2023 at 10:15 am
Fair point about my assumption RCP. Gute does like to invest in defense, but he also tends to invest his #1's in premium positions (QB, OLB, CB) and he hasn't had to invest in LT since he took over the draft (Bakh). LT is a premium position and I believe the Packer's greatest need is now at that position. We will see come next spring.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 10:50 am
Yup, very good point!
I do expect them to take an OT higher. It maybe round 1 or 2, but I do expect one higher. Just will depend on who is available at the time.
But they have had great luck with 4th round OL throughout the years. The latest example is Tom. They got him in the 4th round as well.
LambeauPlain
November 28, 2023 at 10:56 am
They certainly do not invest in Defense with coaching decisions.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:21 pm
Guam, if you move Zach Tom to C (or at least interior) the whole picture changes. We're very obviously better with Nijman, but assuming he and Bakh are both gone next year and Jenkins Tom Rhyan on the interior:
#63 Walker, 72 Mt Caleb, 77 Telfort at 6'7" 78 Tenuta at 6'8".
You're going to get better OT than them in the draft? For future development, ok maybe. For next season?!?
We need depth on the interior.
Guam
November 28, 2023 at 10:17 pm
SST: Not sold on the group of Walker, Jones, Telfort or Tenuta. Big guys - yes, good tackles - not so sure. Only Walker has extensive playing time to date and he is just okay. The others - I have no idea what they bring to the table in terms of performance. I would prefer to reinforce that group with a #1 pick.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 09:02 am
I have no faith in Butkus’s/Stenovich. Too many bad decisions going back to the championship switcheroo. Stenovich may be the worst personnel manager on the staff. A shame, as he seemed a good technical coach, but his promotion has seen that vanish.
Bad coaches make bad decisions and players worse.
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 09:19 am
@coldworld. Another example of MLF making bad personnel choices. D-Coordinator, O-Coordinator, promoting Butkus, letting Luke Getsy get away and on and on.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:29 pm
CW,
if Steno is good at teaching technique / fundamentals to O linemen, why isn't that happening this season?
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 03:36 pm
He made it clear he’s no longer involved as soon as he got promoted. A case of throwing out the good for advancement. It’s been downhill in both ends ever since.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:02 pm
Correct. Mt Caleb has yet to play his first down in the NFL. That's criminal.
stockholder
November 28, 2023 at 07:55 am
If LaFleur doesn’t retreat into caution ???
He's being considered for coach of the
year by some internet comments.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 09:04 am
You do know that one can find comments supporting anything in the internet? I admit some of them match yours for their grounding in reality.
jannesbjornson
November 28, 2023 at 10:14 am
His Kid's Facebook page does not count...
MainePackFan
November 28, 2023 at 03:06 pm
SH. I read an article today that talked about Lafleur being in the Coach of the Year conversation if the Packers continue to improve. MLF takes a lot of heat in here, but if this team continues to make strides and somehow finishes over .500, he should at least be in that conversation.
He didn't win Coach of the Year because he had Rodgers. Now he doesn't have Rodgers, and he's taking a team with a first year starter at QB , a bunch of rookies and 2nd year players at WR/TE, a team decimated with injuries, and made them competitive. I think most fans would appreciate that from their head coach.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 03:47 pm
As I said, you can find all manner of daft in the internet, like read Packerstalk.com and take it seriously. Just because it’s out there doesn’t mean it’s credible.
If anyone else wants to go down this rabbit hole: https://packerstalk.com/2023/11/26/packers-matt-lafleur-should-be-coach-...
MainePackFan
November 28, 2023 at 04:59 pm
I knew where the article was from Coldworld. It doesn't matter who wrote it, nor whether you agree or not. The point is that Lafleur will be in consideration if this team continues to develop and win. That's how it works. They don't jump on CHTV to see what we "in the know" have to say.
PeteK
November 28, 2023 at 05:15 pm
I agree with you Maine. The team is progressing very nicely which is a credit to players and coaches. They kept locker room positive even after many pro bowlers were injured and Douglas traded. If someone would have told me before the start of the season that Alexander, Jones, Bak, Savage, Stokes Campbell, and Walker would miss this many games, I would have predicted a 3 win season.
MainePackFan
November 28, 2023 at 05:21 pm
Fact PeteK!!
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 09:43 am
MLF always retreats into caution. His balls retract at the first sign of adversity.
TKWorldWide
November 28, 2023 at 07:46 am
Big fan of the “interesting safety valve”!
LeotisHarris
November 28, 2023 at 08:47 am
Same. As a child, did you stick your head in the shoe store x-ray machines like I did?
TKWorldWide
November 28, 2023 at 09:00 am
Still doing it.
Is that wrong? Should I not do that??
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 09:11 am
Ra-di-a-tion. Yes, indeed. You hear the most outrageous lies about it. Half-baked goggle-box do-gooders telling everybody it's bad for you. Pernicious nonsense! Everybody could stand a hundred chest X-rays a year! They oughta have 'em, too.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 09:43 am
And lead tastes so sweet and has no calories at all.
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 09:46 am
kids ate paint chips because of that sweet taste. there are a number of cheap jokes I could insert now, but i'm trying to be more magnanimous.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:31 pm
TK,
hopefully #85 steps into that role ...
TKWorldWide
November 28, 2023 at 05:52 pm
You mean, “the other TK”? 😉
stockholder
November 28, 2023 at 07:48 am
These Wrs are over-achieving.
So let's not set extremely high standards for any.
This group is motivated by fear.
The fear of letting down Jordan Love.
Because Love's " fear of Failure" is present.
And his Accuracy;
could be the crippling of this group.
Every catch is a celebration of happiness.
Game changing.
And thats the feeling that is the motivation.
Untylu1968
November 28, 2023 at 07:58 am
Sorry, bro, but I think you're digging a little deep here! Love to me seems like a pretty cool customer, whether he's being accurate or not. With some serious line improvement and another summer of QB1 being willing to work with his receivers in the off-season, this group will grow into a very solid unit.
stockholder
November 28, 2023 at 08:07 am
Regardless: Love must start throwing Dimes.
PeteK
November 28, 2023 at 08:16 am
19 TDs shows that he's throwing gold coins some times. That's a good start considering a developing line, young receivers and running game ranked 21st ( which is better than it looks).
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 09:37 am
Rodgers completion percentage in 2008 was 63.9, behind a good OL, with a decent run game, and throwing to Jennings, Driver & co.
Loves completion rate Is currently 60.5 percent. It’s been rising consistently for six weeks or so (68.8 v the Lions) throwing behind an OL that has had issues in protection and can’t run block to a an inexperienced group that may only now be starting to get some mojo.
Love is doing fine. He’s got a way to go, but he’s trending the right way. I expect more bad games, at this point Rodgers had just come off a 3 interception game with a rating under 60. It’s going to be up and down, but Love has rendered your derision hollow, just as much as Rodgers had by this point back then.
Of course Rodgers then Climbed much further, despite your certainty that he wouldn’t. Hopefully Love does the same. Certainly that remains a real possibility.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 11:45 am
"Regardless: Love must start throwing Dimes."
Loves Stats on the year.
225 completions on 372 attempts for 2599 yards, 19 TD's, 10 INT's.
27 rushes for 221 yards, 2 TD's. 0 fumbles lost
Mahommes -
280 completions on 411 attempts for 2917 yards, 21 TD's, 9 INT's.
53 rushes for 305 yards, 0 TD's. 2 fumbles lost.
Mahommes the best QB in the league, has thrown 55 more completions, while attempting 39 more throws. If you take Loves average yards per completion which is 11.6 (Mahommes average per completion is 1 yard less btw), and give Love 55 more completions (to get the same amount as Mahommes), Love would have 3248 yards. That would rank Love 3rd in the league.
Lets do some more comparisons.
Love has 21 total TD's, and 10 total turnovers.
Mahommes has 21 total TD's and 11 total turnovers.
Lets look at a QB's best friend. The rushing game.
-Dillon and Jones have a combined. 693 rushing yards and 3 TD's.
-Pacheco alone has 669 rushing yards and 5 TD's.
In the end Loves numbers are not that much different from Mahommes. But Love doesn't have the luxury of a good running game nor any experienced receiving options.
Love does have to keep improving. He has really been improving the last few games. The light bulb is turning on for him. Lets just enjoy it!
jannesbjornson
November 28, 2023 at 01:30 pm
Key Stat: SB Wins.
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 06:45 pm
is not a qb stat
Cheezehead72
November 28, 2023 at 08:23 am
A metaphysical view of the QB/WR relationship. Sorry football is not that deep. Much like my job it involves doing what I am told, when I am told, and how if given. If I do not do that I get canned (ride the bench).
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 08:04 am
I really love our WR room. We knew this was going to take a bit of time with all the WR's being rookies or 2nd year players. We knew this was going to take a while with Love starting for the first time. But this group is growing up before our eyes! I can't wait to see them continue to grow.
Numbers wise the top WR has been Doubs. He has 41 catches on 69 targets for 433 yards (10.6 average) and 7 TD's. He has 28 first downs.
Behind him it is Reed. Reed has had 59 targets with 36 catches for 497 yards (13.8 average) and 5 TD's. He has 23 first downs.
Then it is Watson who has 21 catches on 44 targets for 351 yards (16.7 average) and 3 TD's. He has 14 First downs.
Wicks is next with 20 catches on 32 targets for 331 yards (16.6 average) and 1 TD. He has 16 first downs.
One thing that I find interesting in looking at the stats is the 1st downs. Which is why I included it. If we go with the number of catches and what percent of them went for first downs the order would be like this.
Wicks - 80% - 16 of 20
Doubs - 68% - 28 of 41
Watson - 66% - 14 of 21
Reed - 63% - 23 of 36
While I really do like our group of WR's. I feel like we still need to add to it in the draft. We do have Heath, Toure, Melton, Dubose who haven't gotten a lot of playing time. Toure did early but has been a healthy scratch of late. Heath has started to come on these last couple of games. I would like to see more speed brought in. Speed kills and stresses defenses.
When we talk about parallels with Rodgers and Love with their situations, another parallel I want to snap is how Wolf and Thompson to Gutey, all stopped supporting their HOF QB's with top end talent at WR. Wolf is on record saying he wishes he would have done better giving Favre talent at the end of his career in GB. Thompson's last draft was 2017. The last time he took a WR with the 2nd round pick was in 2014 with Adams. He did draft Montgomery in 2015 in the 3rd round. But other then that his final 2 drafts he drafted Trevor Davis in the 6th, DeAngelo Yancey in the 5th, and Malachi Dupre in the 7th. Then to follow that up with Gutey taking over he did draft J'Mon Moore in the 4th, MVS in the 5th and EQ in the 6th in 2018. But he didn't draft another WR until 2021. That is where he took Amari Rodgers in the 3rd round.
They simply did not do enough for Rodgers at the end of his time in GB. I don't want to see them doing that with Love. They already put him in a hard spot with the young players he is with. But the more challenging part is they have all of these WR's who are 1st and 2nd year players. When it comes to free agency in a few years, they will all be looking for contracts at the same time. They won't be able to sign everyone. So they will need to keep restocking the position.
BruceC1960
November 28, 2023 at 08:28 am
Any news on the health or progress of DuBose? Some seemed to think he had potential.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 08:48 am
I like DuBose. He has been on the PS. Other then that I haven't heard much about him since the season started.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 09:08 am
Missing camp and the emergence of both Wicks and Heath in his role means he probably won’t get much chance till next summer. We are surprisingly deep at that big X/slot type with Musgrave and now Kraft.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 09:26 am
I was curious if they were going to bring DuBose up when Wicks was out this past week. They brought Melton up instead. I wouldn't be surprised if DuBose would get called up later in the year depending on how the rest of the season goes. He is a guy that likely needs a lot of developing coming from Charlotte. So hopefully next preseason he is really to go!
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 11:05 am
Melton was likely brought up because Reed had been a question. Melton is the nearest to Reed in terms of type of player and the only other speedster and can play the same ST roles as a gunner (Toure probably backing up Nixon at returner). Heath took the Wicks role to the extent needed.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:51 pm
Heath and Wicks are entirely different players though. Melton can run at least step for step with #9. Would love to see him, #9 & 11 on the field at the same time! Next season maybe ...
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 04:27 pm
Heath and Wicks are both physical, stronger receivers. In camp they both played the X and some big slot. Neither are fast, but Wicks has elite short area quickness. They aren’t that different. Nor is Dubose. I accept that Wicks should be more versatile.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:48 pm
Agreed, DuBose is great. Haven't heard a peep since he got injured.
PeteK
November 28, 2023 at 08:36 am
--You forgot TEs who are trending upwards.
--I would definitely not draft a receiver high, especially with needs at O line, S, stout DT, RB.
-- Rogers had 2 pro bowl linemen, pro bowl RB, one of the best WR in football. Sure helped his MVPs. Maybe he should have given GB a discount like he did the Jets.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 08:52 am
Yeah definitely. I was mostly just focusing on the WR's.
I really like our young TE room. I would like to see them add another TE this year too. Even if its an HBack type.
When I say drafting a WR, it can be a 5th round pick. MVS was a 5th as was Wicks. Gutey might have found something with 5th round WR's.
Draft needs are definitely OL, DL, CB, S, RB. That is where the primary focus should go.
For the OL, it will depend on what happens with Bakhtiari. But LT, and RG are the biggest weaknesses among the 5. Then C. Our LG and RT are studs!
PeteK
November 28, 2023 at 05:32 pm
Smile and grin at the change all aroundWon't get fooled again, we won't get fooled again. Bak no more.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
November 29, 2023 at 07:50 am
Here you Pete!
Bak will not be here next year mainly because he doesn't want to be here. If paying attention he has made it very clear with his comments. Separately, I think it is very clear the Packers do not want him either. By his comments and his decision to shut it down at beginning of the year for the season. He is too unreliable and by not having him available it throws the whole offense out of whack. There is a obvious reason they have had Wallace and Nijman constantly alternating at LT in figuring out what they have in them, plus giving them experience. It would seem clear to me depending on how the draft falls they will first draft a LT.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:53 pm
Stout DL, #99 J Ford. Has he even played 1 snap this season?
brenner
November 29, 2023 at 01:30 pm
I would love to see love be the one to take a discount, but long and fully guaranteed contract to allow for more guys to get their 2nd contracts... say like a guaranteed 15m per year on like an 8 year deal... open the door to resign as many of his guys as possible... as for drafting, OL has to be the first concern, then S, CB and RB after that. Hard for me to prioritize DL when we refuse to put more than 2 of them on the field at any time...
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:46 pm
RCP -
there were 4 WRs with 4.3x speed on the roster at the same time. Gutey cut 2 and we wound up with 3, Reed and Bo Melton to go along with #9. This is part of the reason Reed gets open so often!
Reed's completion % is higher than Doubs. JL should look to him first, most of the time.
So Gutey cuts Bo Melton. Hopefully this is just to gain a new set of 3 call ups, and he'll be re-signed to the PS soon.
While I agree JL should not be abandoned, next draft might not need an addition to this room. BPA, but focus on S and IOL. 2025 we'll still have many young WRs on contract, and money for a FA that's truly a #1 if needed.
HarryHodag
November 28, 2023 at 08:08 am
The performance has been encouraging. But I find it curious that Reed and Wicks(good pattern runners) are leading the 'pack' while the second round pick is open only occasionally. Doubs has also had just a so-so year and tends to have too many drops. In the NFL it's survival of the fittest and the best receivers are emerging.
If all the kinks can be worked out the Packers will have one of the best wide out corps in the league, without question.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 10:57 am
Doubs has our best catch percentage among our WRs and the most TDs. So really, not.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:56 pm
Reed's completion % is better. JL should be looking to him first. He's our #1. Then Wicks or Musgrave, whoever's open. With Musgrave out for at least 3 more games, hopefully #85 can fill that role.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 04:38 pm
A slot is rarely one’s number 1 in practical terms.
TxFred
November 28, 2023 at 08:19 am
Couple of things for this WR group.
Execute downfield blocking!!!!!
Run routes precisely!!
Will be tough to get into the All Pro class without those skills
Best of luck. GPG!!!
LambeauPlain
November 28, 2023 at 11:07 am
He hasn't received many snaps this season, but when he is on the field, watch Heath block for his mates. He plays like he absolutely loves the job. Last week he laid wood as good, or better than Lazard of last year.
And he gets open with his OK speed by crisp routes...then catches everything in his radius.
Heath caught my attention in the summer. He seems to love the game. He's a killer on ST coverage too.
You can win with guys like Heath.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 03:57 pm
Heath is a football player!
Packers0808
November 28, 2023 at 08:20 am
After watching Bears-Vikings last night and their pass defenses it would seem the Packers are in a pretty good place with the youngsters we have at WR. These two teams seem to be beatable the way they looked last night and the passing game should be a big part of that. It would seem at this point we are in a good place at the position going forward.
LambeauPlain
November 28, 2023 at 11:15 am
Twice a year I pull for the bares...when they play the ugly purple.
Vikings have a problem at QB. Three INTs last night and poor decision making doomed them. Even then, the supposedly thin vikings D kept them in a position to win the game but could not hold at the end of the 4th.
Brian Flores looked like he was ready to explode at times...but kept his cool watching the O flop around.
All I want for Christmas is MLF to hire him after the season, if the purple coaches get fired. It is not looking good in Helga-land and Brian may be available.
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 06:49 pm
Flores deserves to be a head coach. MLF would NEVER hire him. He commands too much authority and would make MLF look even weaker.
GregC
November 28, 2023 at 08:30 am
Here's a fun stat comparison:
Jaxson Smith-Njigba
REC: 38
YDS: 406
AVG: 10.7
TD: 2
Jayden Reed
REC: 36
YDS: 497
AVG: 13.8
TD: 5
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 09:24 am
You can also add in rushing yards if you want.
Smith-Njigba has 0 rushing attempts.
Reed has 7 for 81 yards and 1 TD.
Reed also has 9 punt returns for 87 yards.
My favorite part about this too. Its not just comparing Reed to Smith-Njigba. Its comparing where they were drafted and how they were acquired. Smith-Njigba was the 20th overall pick. He was the first WR taken. Reed was picked with the 50th pick and he was the 6th WR taken. Wicks was the 159th pick overall, and was the 19th WR taken.
Packers traded down twice and got Reed, Wicks and Brooks out of that trade.
Packers first traded down with the Lions from 45 to 48. Lions took Brian Branch. Packers go the 48th pick and the 159th pick (Wicks). The 48th pick they traded down with the Buc's and they took Cody Mauch (good pick). The Packers received the 50th (Reed) and the 179th pick (Brooks).
By trading down 5 spots they got 3 players. Gutey was cooking!
And speaking of WR's numbers.
Wicks who was a 5th round pick, is really coming on of late. His stats are looking good to compare with Smith-Njigba as well.
REC: 20
YDS: 331
AVG: 16.55
TD: 1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
November 29, 2023 at 08:01 am
I had wanted Wicks in round 3 of the draft but would have been fine if drafted in round 2. After watching all of his game videos I thought he was a legitimate #1, or #2 round caliber WR. Yes, he doesn't have blazing speed and his catch % in college was not super good, but all you had to do was watch and you could see he had it all. Immensely talented! Following the draft a number of posters I really admire at CCTV did not agree with me as I felt Wicks was an absolute steal in the 5th. He will continue to improve and impress.
I agree with RC above though they still could use one more talented WR. Maybe Dubose eventually ends up being that guy. With receivers like Dubose, Wicks, and Doubs having average to slow speeds and more possession type receivers the receiver should be speedy.
stockholder
November 28, 2023 at 09:38 am
Rashee Rice -You'll see him Sunday.
REC
44
YDS
527
TD
5
AVG
12.0
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 09:48 am
For the record. Rice was taken 5 spots behind Reed. 35 spots behind Smith-Njigba.
stockholder
November 28, 2023 at 10:30 am
True.- But he was rated the higher WR than Reed.
The Packers needed a Punt Returner.
Trading down when the top safety was there?
I wouldn't have done it then, or now. Either
And if you compare the WR Room in KC.
Rice was a steal. And Reed would be on the bench.
But that just might explain Gutey's busts in the later ads.
Reed will never be a #1 Wr.
Coldworld
November 28, 2023 at 10:42 am
Reed was supposed to run a 4.45 40. That’s what his ratings were based on. The Packers thought differently and they have been proved obviously correct.
Rice has a star QB and yet has a negligible difference in total yards and less per catch and route run. He’s also got no rushing yards. Yet you want to hold the choice of Reed over Rive up as evidence we could have done better? Reed is faster by some way. I think his upside is much greater and his present arguably also better.
Rice is s better comparative with Doubs. He’s a similar type. Doubs was a 4th rounder, a year earlier;
41 receptions
433 yards
10.6 average
7 TDs.
2 more TDs offsets the yards, unless you are arguing equality in their QBs?
Overall, you again make Gute look better not worse as intended.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 04:02 pm
CW,
I have #11 Reed running a 4.37 40.
stockholder
November 28, 2023 at 05:54 pm
Your explanation is the perfect example,
Why packer fans think their" favorites" are better
then they really are.
I think- if you included snap counts.
It might give you a different picture.
But the problem is you never leave
a possible All-pro on the board.
If you really listen to the other coaches.
They laugh at why Gute passed.
on Rice, and the need for Branch.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 11:06 am
Based on who's ratings? Everyone rates players differently. Reed was a lower rated WR to many people. Only after the Packers draft did a few go back and actually watch him. They then came away really impressed with him and got excited about him. A perfect example of that is Basaraski on youtube. Check him out. He admits he didn't like the pick and then went back and watched him and realized he was wrong about him.
Ok you can have Brian Branch or you can have Reed, Wicks and Brooks. Which will you take?
Comparing Packers to KC isn't a good comparison. Mahommes is an established veteran QB. Who is also the best QB in the league right now. They have the best TE in the league also. Packers have a first time starting QB, and an entire WR and TE group that are either 1st or 2nd year players outside of Deguara.
jannesbjornson
November 28, 2023 at 10:27 am
He is now Mahomes goto guy along with Webster who has shaky hands. MVS will be benched. Skyy Moore is coming back from Injury and Andy Reid will let it rip. Cold weather may make this a black and blue game. Can this clown Barry muster the fortitude to deliver the blow? Reed was rated the top slot guy and 4.45 speed. Rice a better route runner from an Air Raid offense pushing 4.52. I would be happy with either guy. Reed in space blew the Lions away last week. The end around was lightening in a bottle.
Guam
November 28, 2023 at 08:38 am
The young WRs have been exciting to watch, but let's not forget about the "other" receivers. The young Packer TE's have been equally good for the team and having solid receiving threats at TE means less coverage on the WR's. I loved Mercedes Lewis in the run game, but he did not open up the passing game for the Packers. Musgrave and now Kraft are helping open up the passing game because linebackers can't cover them and they demand safeties in coverage, leaving WRs more room to get open. An exciting future for the total passing game!
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 09:14 am
Marcedes Alexis Lewis (born May 19, 1984) is an American football tight end for the Chicago Bears
Guam
November 28, 2023 at 02:58 pm
Not sure of your point Bitter. I believe I used the past tense ("loved") when referring to Lewis as I knew he is currently with the Bears (although I did manage to misspell his first name as I always seem to do).
Bitternotsour
November 28, 2023 at 06:56 pm
My point was that you should know his name. l see now it was an oversight of spelling. The fact is he's shot, time waits for no man. He can't get on the field for the lowly bears offense. 2 plays from scrimmage. Was a stellar dude for us, but it was time.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 04:04 pm
Don't forget Dillon, he's catching everything thrown to him. #33 normally does ...
LambeauPlain
November 28, 2023 at 11:48 am
My greatest anticipations coming into the season:
1. A powerful run game would carry the O and open up the pass for the young receivers and their QB.
2. The D would be able to stop the run and force teams to throw at their talented DBs.
3. STs would finally become a top NFL unit.
Good times, last September! Oh well.
Still, there is hope yet in Packerland. A few weeks ago, predicting 5-6 would get you some giggles.
But it may be the emergence of both Love and his receivers may allow passing to open up the run. The D pass pressure, especially with Kenny Clark being massive disrupter helping all the pass rushers around him. Run D is still...SMH. The punt game is very solid...helping to control field position...coverage is good too...And while Carlson is up and down, he is OK should be around for a long time.
Also, I note 5 of the 6 teams the Packers lost to so far are all still in the playoff hunt (although Raiders are falling fast). They probably were not nearly as bad as the 2-5 start as they have gone 3-1 since.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2023 at 12:06 pm
"note 5 of the 6 teams the Packers lost to so far are all still in the playoff hunt"
In the 6 games the Packers lost they lost 2 by 14 points, the other 4 they lost by 4 points or less.
They had a 4th quarter lead in 3 of those games. They had a lead in the 2nd half against the Steelers.
In the 2 14 point games, the one was the first Lions game. They were down 27-3 at halftime. They got to within 10 at the start of the 4th quarter. The Vikings game they had a lot of chances just messed them up.
SicSemperTyrannis
November 28, 2023 at 04:19 pm
LP, I would argue that GB was in fact as bad as their 2-5 start. The question is, what caused the problems, and how can those be solved?
I firmly believe that at least 3 of those losses could have been won. 8-3 right now would be completely different.
I don't think those problems are fixed but of the 6 remaining games, only 2 are against good teams. By no means does that guarantee 9 wins this season, but it's at least not entirely fanciful.
Now imagine a coach that had his players playing ABOVE their talent level! Because there's no other way we see that soon. The massive mid-season turnaround is without coaches adjusting.
LambeauPlain
November 28, 2023 at 05:25 pm
The OL was a tangled mess after Bakht and then Jenks went down. Coaching didn't put the best 5 on the field...still have not. The running attack was anemic with AJ hurting and the run blocking was poor. Route running was not good. That's coaching. Love was also missing throws he is making now.
Penalties! Coaching.
Barry Ball's usual bending kept breaking at critical times. The run defense is again abysmal. These issues continue. This is also coaching, given the talent on D.
I don't see the D playing complimentary football over the next 6 games unless they can get T/O's, the great equalizer.
But Love is seeing the field better and the receivers are continuing to improve. MLF has a lot of ways to use the talented receivers, including AJD.
Chiefs are a tough out. But the last 5 games are ALL beatable NFC teams.
CanPackFan
November 28, 2023 at 12:25 pm
Just think how good these young receivers and QB could be if we had a running game? This is still - by far - the greatest weakness of our offense. Certain, under performing linemen continue to play while better performers - like Sean Ryhan - sit on the bench far too long? This situation is just bad coaching evaluation or juvenile favoritism. Steno and Butkus are still not doing an adequate job! Watching Creed Humphries the other day made me sad that we could have him instead of 71...
To my mind, even if the Oline is perfect in pass protection, they will never get above a C grade until they can run block.
Back to the receivers, MLF being more aggressive - in calling more intermediate routes - plays into the strengths of this talented young core. That is, finally, good offensive scheming. My concern with KC coming up is whether he'll have enough time to complete those routes? Ah, if we just had a running game... ah, if our oline could adequately run block...
Regardless, we are seeing some of the best Packer football of the season! I'm keeping my expectations low for the KC game but at least we have a glimmer of hope now. GPG
jboss
November 28, 2023 at 06:48 pm
And those guys were all gifts from Gutey, and he needs to be fired?
Packerpasty
November 28, 2023 at 08:14 pm
I wouldnt say too much about the Vikings or Bears until the Packers beats them both again..those two teams looked dreadful last night but I doubt they will look like that the rest of the season......the Bears maybe...