Upscale Cheese

I try really hard not to look too much into the NFL Draft.  In my opinion, there is only so much people can get out of a 40 time, how many times someone bench pressed, or even how they played in college.  For every Ryan Leaf, there is a Tom Brady. Also this has a lot to do with how much of the draft I actually watched on Friday and Saturday. I watched a minimal coverage on the second and third round then kept myself updated through Twitter for the final three rounds.

I am not trying to dampen an event that had better ratings than the NBA Playoffs, I just try to not to get caught up in the knee-jerk reactions that I am known for at times. But I will say this about the Green Bay Packers draft, the rich got richer.  

I thought  the Packers draft showed confidence, swagger, and the attitude of a team who if this season actually happens is ready to repeat as World Champions.  Everybody including myself thought the Packers would draft defense in case they needed a replacement for Cullen Jenkins, or a better edge-rusher to create bash brother situation with Clay Matthews. Nope, Ted Thompson, the general manager believed guys like Erik Walden, Jarius Wynn, Brad Jones, Frank Zombo, and others have what it takes for the Packers to get it done defensively.  They did add some pieces in the later rounds with Davon House (CB), D.J. Smith (LB) Ricky Elmore (DL), and Lawrence Guy (DT). But the early focus stayed on the offense. 

Randall Cobb gives the Packers
their first special teams talent in
a long time.

I started to wonder why this was? I mean the Packers lit teams up like Christmas trees for most of the season, so I began to explore this topic. At first, I thought it might be due to the lack of red zone efficiency. Nope, wrong about that one, USA Today tells me the Packers scored a touchdown 60 percent of the time when they got inside the 20 (only five teams were better than the Pack by the way).  For whatever it's worth, I think  one of the reasons the Packers went offensive was to guaran-damn tee that if injuries like 2010 happen again, there will be some up and coming pieces ready to contributed.  Thompson wanted make sure his team is protected for 2011, and I assume he feels confident in his role players on defense. 

The other reason to draft new offensive talent is they need to replace guys like James Jones, Brandon Jackson, and Donald Lee, all major role players from the Super Bowl who are owed money in the next couple of months. Additionally, they will get more than their market value due to having a Super Bowl ring on their finger. Randall Cobb, Alex Green, and DJ Williams hopefully can fill the holes left by the players above. Who knows, they could be better, and if that is the case?  Tim Masthay might have a couple games where his uniform doesn't need to be washed by the Packers' staff after the game. 

I want to see a season for a laundry list of reasons, but one is to see if these players can develop. With the track record of Mr. Thompson, it's hard not to think one or two of these guys will be great additions to the Green Bay Packers

-Charlie.  

In-Depth Packer Draft Preview From Murph

Here it is folks, the annual draft report from local "draft expert" Nolan Murphy. I didn't bother going through the 1800 word report, so pardon the numerous grammatical errors and such. Nonetheless, it's highly in-depth for all you Packer Backers. You can thank the Ritalin in his system for that boys.

Christmas in April: The Reigning Champs' Draft Preview

By Nolan Murphy
“I love picking at 32,” G.M. Ted Thompson said, 12 months ago the thought of the Packers picking last in the NFL Draft was only a dream for Packer Nation. Fast forward to late April, and our Green Bay Packers have the honor of being Super Bowl champs and selecting last in April 28 NFL Draft.

I have been following and anticipating each and every NFL Draft since I was probably around 10 years old. I dubiously called the Packers 2001 1st round pick Florida State Defensive End Jamal Reynolds… In those 10 years I have rebounded and done some character building. I never thought that I would see a the Packers picking last after our favorite Wrangler Jeans actor left town, but with a little luck in the draft (thank you 49ners and Alex Smith, God Bless) and the help of a belt the Pack are back.

Looking at the Packers needs in the NFL Draft they are coming off a season in which they had many notable starters and roll players on injured reserve including: Running Back Ryan Grant, Tight End Jermichael Finley, Middle Linebacker Nick Barnett, and Strong Safety Morgan Burnett. In looking at the roster, the downfall of a team winning a Super Bowl is the factor that their role players look to cash in off that success. Notable Departures look to be Wide Receiver James Jones and Defensive End Cullen Jenkins. Inside linebacker also may become expendable before next season due to the budding star Desmond Bishop and a younger A.J. Hawk. Barnett has dealt with a unhealthy bill of health of the last few years, and has never been deemed big enough to play inside in the 3-4 base defense.

The defensive line also took a hit earlier this month with the arrest of suspended Defensive lineman Johnny Jolly, who once again was caught sipping the potent “Purple Drank.” Earlier this week Jolly did find out he will not face any jail time for his actions, who knows how dictator Roger Goodell, will handle off the field issues once a collective bargaining agreement is reached.

With the on going NFL lockout out, this years NFL Draft looks to be different then ever before. Without a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) decided by April 28th no player movement or trades will be approved before, during, or after the Draft. This will not affect the Packers negatively, but does rule out the idea of us shopping backup quarterback Matt Flynn. G.M. Ted Thompson and Head Coach Mike McCarthy have seen many of their role players on team over the years be undrafted free agents, without a new CBA no undrafted free agents will be able to sign with teams.

Positions Need: WR, OT, DL,OLB, DB, KR/PR

Wide receiver: With the possible departure of 4 year player James Jones and knowing the Donald “DD” Driver will not be around for ever, look for Thompson so snag a wide out in the middle rounds. Rodgers can never have enough weapons in his arsenal.

Offensive Tackle: Last year the Packers address one bookend of the offensive line by draft Bryan Bulaga out of Iowa. Buluga looks to be the successor for LT Chad Clifton in the near feature, so looking for a replacement for RT Mark Tauscher whose health is up in the air is a must. OT T.J. Lang may be an in house solution.

Defensive Line: In the 3-4 defensive you can never have enough fresh bodies on the DL. Uncertainty with free agent Cullen Jenkins and the age of Ryan Pickett, make this position attractable in the draft.

Outside Linebacker/Pass Rusher: Finding a playmaker opposite of Pro Bowler Clay Matthews will be addressed. Many prospects this year fit into that 3-4 pass rusher mold.

Defensive Back: Mr. Heisman and All-Pro Charles “Chuck” Woodson is not getting any older. While the blossoming of young Tramon Williams and Sammy Shields this year were promising. Depth could be addressed here.

Return Specialist: As it has been seen in the past years in our own the division, return specialist are game changers and effect the game heavily (Devin Hester and Percy Harvin). The Packers have been missing that game changer since the Desmond Howard days of the late 1990’s. Thompson hopes to find one, but only at the right price and by not reaching for a player.

Nolan’s Big Board: As usual these players are ones slated to come off the draft board around the 32nd pick. With such a deep draft, don’t be surprised if the Packers trade out of the 1st round with a team looking to trade back into the first round for a QB (Arizona, San Fran, Cincinnati, Miami, Tennessee)

1.        Akeem Ayres OLB, UCLA
2.        Derrik Sherrod OT, MISS ST.
3.        Adrain Clayborn DE, IOWA
4.        Cameron Hayward DE, THE OSU
5.        Gabe Carmi OT, WISCO
6.        Brooks Reed OLB/DE, ARIZONA
7.        Justin Houston OLB/DE, Georga
8.        Jonathon Baldwin WR, PITT
9.        Brandon Harris DB, The U
10.        Muhammad Wllkerson DE/DT, Temple
11.        Mark Ingram RB, Alabama
12.        Jimmy Smith DB, Colorado

Akeem Ayres: Outside Linebacker out of UCLA, had 39 career starts and has an uncanny ability to get to the QB. Questions arise about his ability to drop back into coverage. Almost has the size of an inside backer but agility of outside linebacker. Thompson knows what he is getting if Ayres is selected.

Derrik Sherrod: A mammoth of an OT in SEC for Miss St. Could start at either LT or RT tackle in the NFL. Needs to build more strength but has a lot of upside. Excelled in classroom and was 1st all SEC. Showed durability by starting every game in last two collegiate seasons.

Adrian Clayborn: If he would of came out last year could have been a top 15 pick. Had an inconsistent senior year, but the skill is still there. Has a motor that you like to see in a defensive end, and is solid against run and pass. Can only play on right side due to condition with left arm called Erb’s palsy.

Cameron Hayward: Had an extremely successful career for Buckeyes. Many scouts compare his transition into the NFL as a Trevor Pryce like player, who can make an effect anywhere on the defensive line. Never can have enough players that come from a winning tradition. Questions about an elbow injury, that limited him in his final year.

Gabe Carmi: If Carmi falls to 32 it will be about concerns of athleticism. Would be a great fit opposite of Bulaga and a star at RT for years to come. Extremely hard worker and 3 times all-academic BIG 10 at Wisco. Would be an extremely popular pick, and would be best player available on the board if there

Brooks Reed: Often compared to as a “poor mans” Clay Matthews, would be a great fit opposite of him. Shows great technique in getting the QB and has a motor that doesn’t stop. Somewhat of a durability issue with only starting two games in 2009. Has a lot of upside and would be a great fit in Capers defense. Ability to drop back into coverage is in doubt. Would be great to have another long hairstyle to the linebacker core.

Justin Houston:  Was a combine freak in Indianapolis this year. Two year starter at Georgia, and had a very productive career in the SEC. Is looked at somewhat of a project and is raw. Shows the talent though to become an elite edge rusher in a 3-4 defense. Might be somewhat of a reach. Scouts sometimes did not production and work ethic 100% of the time.

Jonathon Baldwin: Played without a QB pretty much his last year at Pitt. Is a very big receiver with the ability to stretch the field and go over the middle to catch balls. Would be a great replacement for James Jones if he leaves. Has some maturity and attitude issues, called out play calling after the year was done. Has some off the field issues, but good locker room in Green Bay could fix that.

Brandon Harris:  Had a great career at Miami while starting 2 and half years. Good at supporting the run, which is a must in the Packers defense. Great top-end speed, which is why I like him more than Aaron Williams from Texas. Coach’s son and showed great work ethic. Not great ball skills, but is known for good hands.

These last 3 players on my big board my fall to 32, or have enough talent that Thompson might trade up which is out of character.

Muhammad Wilkerson: Would be a great fit at any position on the DL. Is a extremely big and athletic player. Scouts view on work ethic could be reason to drop. Thompson would love for him to fall to 32, probably wouldn’t move up more than a few picks do to depth at position in this draft.

Mark Ingram:  Former Heisman Trophey winner, and had a great career at Alabama. Will be first running back off the board in this Draft. Would be hard to pass up, due to overall analysis that he will be a great NFL running back (compared to Emmitt Smith). Injury to knee in junior season was reason for drop in production. Team would probably look to move on without injury-prone Ryan Grant.

Jimmy Smith:  I have him rated as a top 10 player in this year draft. Is in a tie for 2nd best cornerback with Prince Amukamare of Nebraska.  Great cover corner and top end spend, and showed an ability to stop the run at Colorado. Was thrown away from a lot in Big 12 conference play. Major off the field issues with marijuana and the law has made his stock draft, but really how hard is it to get in trouble in Green Bay. Only player I feel Thompson might move up for. Will be the steal of the first round.


As we all know this could all change, as Thompson and Pro Personal department always will go with strategy of best player available on draft board. It will also be interesting to see what teams try trading back into the first round. The Packers will only be getting more talented in this years draft. Let the madness begin….

Packers Draft Needs



 We haven't said too much about the draft on SNOtap yet so I'll get us started with a preview of the Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers' most pressing needs.  Ted Thompson has done an excellent job building depth in the draft and hopefully hell be up to his old tricks tomorrow night (lets just hope he stays away from the Justin Harrells of the world).



Biggest Needs

1) Offensive Tackle - In my opinion the Packers' biggest need is at the offensive tackle position.  Chad Clifton is probably looking at his final season in the NFL and I would be surprised if Mark Tauscher is ever seen on a football field again.  Plus, Aaron Rodgers' concussions could become an issue if protection isn't addressed in the draft. They seem to have hit it on the head with Brian Bulaga in last years draft and they need to find someone that can step in opposite of him to solidify their line going forward. 

2) Defensive End / OLB - Clay Matthews has established himself as an elite pass rusher over the past two seasons and the Pack is going to have to find someone to work opposite of him.  Teams consistently shift pass protections towards the Claymaker and usually run the ball away from him.  While guys like Frank Zombo, Erik Walden, and Brady Poppinga have been effective I don't see them as the long term answer.

3) Wide Receiver - Donald Driver isn't getting any younger and while the Packers still have a deep receiving corps with Jennings, Jones, and Nelson they will need to draft a replacement.  This isn't an extremely pressing need so look for the Packers to look for a great value receiver in one of the later rounds.

Who They Should Pick

Predicting a Ted Thompson draft selection is as hard as predicting which graphic t Charlie will go with on a Friday night but I'll give it a shot on the Packers' first few picks..

Round 1 - Picking in the 32 hole is a great problem to have.  However, it really does limit your choices and while I think OT is their biggest need I don't think their will be a first round quality tackle left on the board by the time the Pack gets on the clock.  Therefore I think they go for a pass rusher like J.J. Watt (Wisconsin), Brooks Reed (Arizona), or Cameron Heyward (Ohio State) depending whos available.

Round 2 - Here is where I think they address the offensive line.  It obviously comes down to who is available at the 62nd pick but a couple of names that could still be around include Danny Watkins (Baylor) or James Carpenter (Bama)

Round 3 - My guess is they try to pick up a wide out that either slipped or someone who they think is under the radar.  Its tough to say who will still be around but I would love it if a guy like Greg Little (UNC) or Titus Young (Boise) were to fall to the Pack.

First Taste: The Biggest Packer Draft Bust

Here's to the worst Green Bay Packers' draft pick of all time: Tony Mandarich.  The Pack missed out on Barry Sanders, Deion Sanders, and Derrick Thomas that year by taking this freak athlete. It's funny because if Mandarich taught us anything, it's not to trust the pure athletes. Remember they have to play football too.  Yet teams still make this mistake all the time.

-Charlie.

2011 NFL Schedule Thoughts For The SnoTap Favorites

We have a wide fanbase here on Snotap ranging from the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders, and Indianapolis Colts. It might be pointless to do all of this because they might take away a couple of the games, I figure if I can provide a one-stop location for some fans than why not. I will leave my thoughts after each schedule



Green Bay: 
9/8- vs. New Orleans (NBC)              9/18- at Carolina (FOX)            9/25- at Chicago (FOX)
10/2- vs. Denver (CBS)                      10/9- at Atlanta (NBC)           10/16- vs. St. Louis (FOX)
10/23- at Minnesota (FOX)                10/30- BYE                            11/6- at San Diego (FOX)
11/14- vs. Minnesota (ESPN)            11/20- vs. Tampa Bay (FOX)  11/24- at Detroit (FOX)
12/4- at New York Giants (FOX)      12/11- vs. Oakland (CBS)       12/18- at Kansas City (CBS)
12/25- vs. Chicago (NBC)                     1/1- vs. Detroit (FOX)

Thoughts: Personally, I love this schedule.  I mean I don' t like road games in Atlanta and Kansas City, but other than that?  I really feel if the Pack have a season they can be 13-3 for sure.

Chicago Bears:
9/11- vs. Atlanta (FOX)                   9/18- at New Orleans (FOX)       9/25- vs. Green Bay (FOX)
10/2- vs. Carolina (FOX)                10/10- at Detroit (ESPN)             10/16- vs. Minnesota (NBC)
10/23- at Tampa Bay (FOX)           10/30- BYE                                 11/7- at Philadelphia (ESPN)
11/13- vs. Detroit (FOX)                 11/20- vs. San Diego (CBS)        11/27- at Oakland (FOX)
12/4-   vs. Kansas City (CBS)          12/11- at Denver (FOX)             12/18- vs. Seattle (FOX)
12/25- at Green Bay (FOX)                1/1- at Minnesota (FOX)

Thoughts: The Bears start off with three straight playoff teams, they have a Jay Cutler Reunion in the Mile High, which is exciting.  They also head to London to play Tampa, and Philly on Monday Night isn't fun.

Minnesota Vikings:
9/11- at San Diego (FOX)                 9/18- vs. Tampa Bay (FOX)      9/25- vs. Detroit (FOX)
10/2- at Kansas City (FOX)              10/9- vs. Arizona (FOX)           10/16- at Chicago (NBC)
10/23- vs. Green Bay (FOX)            10/30- at Carolina (FOX)          11/6- BYE
11/14- at Green Bay (ESPN)            11/20- vs. Oakland (CBS)         11/27- at Atlanta (FOX)
12/4- vs. Denver (CBS)                    12/11- at Detroit  (FOX)            12/18- vs. New Orleans (FOX)
12/24-at Washington (FOX)                1/1- vs. Chicago (FOX)

Thoughts: If the Vikings can find a quarterback (see not Donovan McNabb), I like their chances to be successful. This isn't a brutal schedule by any shape of the imagination. The only tough road games are Atlanta and Kansas City

Oakland Raiders: 
9/12- at Denver (ESPN)                   9/18- at Buffalo (CBS)                  9/25- vs. New York Jets (CBS)
10/2- vs. New England (CBS)          10/9- at Houston (CBS)               10/16- vs. Cleveland (CBS)
10/23- vs. Kansas City (CBS)          10/30- BYE                                 11/6- vs. Denver (CBS)
11/10- at San Diego (NFLN)           11/20- at Minnesota (CBS)         11/27- vs. Chicago (FOX)
12/4- at Miami (CBS)                      12/11- at Green Bay (CBS)         12/18- vs. Detroit (FOX)
12/24- at Kansas City (CBS)               1/1- vs. San Diego (CBS)

Thoughts: The Raiders have a weird schedule with most of their home games in the front part of their schedule therefore they need to win early. If they want to be successful, it's a must for them to beat either the Jets or the Patriots because they aren't winning in Green Bay/Kansas City in December.  

Indianapolis Colts:
9/11- at Houston (CBS)                   9/18- vs. Cleveland (CBS)             9/25- vs. Pittsburgh (NBC)
10/3- at Tampa Bay (ESPN)            10/9- vs. Kansas City (CBS)        10/16- at Cincinnati (CBS)
10/23- at New Orleans (NBC)        10/30- at Tennessee (CBS)           11/6-  vs. Atlanta (FOX)
11/13- vs. Jacksonville (CBS)         11/20- BYE                                  11/27- vs. Carolina (FOX)
12/4-   at New England (NBC)       12/11- at Baltimore (CBS)            12/18- vs. Tennessee (CBS)
12/22- vs. Houston (NFLN)             1/1-   at Jacksonville (CBS)

Thoughts: Peyton Manning hopes for a healthy team this year with road trips to the Big Easy and Foxboro plus home games against Pittsburgh and Atlanta. It always seems they have a tough schedule, and a primetime game against Houston to make the Texans relevant.

-Charlie.

The Legend Grows

A lot of people who attend large state schools like to look down their noses at the Eau Claire night life but one bar on Water Street is slowly gaining quite a reputation.  The Pickle is a hit with not only the loyal UWEC students but also, it seems, with the world champion Green Bay Packers...

Future Visa Card Commercial

The year of Wisconsin needs to continue tonight as the Badgers take on Butler. I quite agree with Chuckles that it is the white man's wet dream game. If it doesn't continue, at least I can spread a little cheer by reminding everyone that Wisconsin at least has one championship this year.

NFL Rules Committee Makes The Packers Better

I hope every Green Bay Packer fan is rejoicing about the new kickoff rules installed by the NFL.  I wonder if Shawn Slocum had a hand in telling the committee to make these things happen so less people will call for Slocum's job because it's one unit the Packers special teams cannot screw up.  Honestly, if anyone made out better in this deal other than the Packers, let me know.

In case you missed it on SportsCenter or anywhere else, the new rules state kickoffs will now begin from the 35 yard line and the NFL expects to have less collisions on kickoffs avoiding dangerous situations. A lot of people are pissed off about the new rule, and I cannot blame them. If a team was paying a return specialist like Leon Washington, I would be pretty mad. But I got 99 problems, and this ain't one of them. I couldn't love this rule more.



The Packers have to face three dangerous returners in the North Division. They deal with guys like Stefan Logan, Percy Harvin, and Devin Hester who have the ability to house a kickoff.  Now, we do not have to worry about their average kickoff squad missing tackles and giving teams starting field possession at the 35 yard line.  Mason Crosby should be able to drill most kicks deep into endzone tempting teams to take it out maybe seven yards deep.

The other rule change in case you're wondering is no longer teams will need to challenge calls on touchdowns. All scoring plays will be subjected to a booth review, just like college football. I love this for the Packers too because we all know Mike McCarthy can be a wildcard with the challenge flag, sometimes not always in the good way. So if you are Packer fan and mad about the rule changes, don't be.  Everyone at Lambeau is celebrating.

-Charlie.

Free Write Friday: Will They Still Love Me In Green Bay?

Adam Jackson steps in and gives us a Free Write for today. One of my favorite people in Eau Claire to talk sports with, and he does a great job with a look at Favre's legacy in Green Bay. Enjoy

A little over a week has passed since the Green Bay Packer’s Super Bowl XLV victory. I feel that enough time has passed from celebrating for a discussion about the reigning Super Bowl champs and that one guy who used to be the Packer’s quarterback. I really want to know how Brett Favre will be viewed from now on among Packers fans and the organization. The reason I bring this up is that the Packers just won the Super Bowl, three seasons removed from the “Favre Saga”, quarterbacked by Aaron Rodgers, in Favre’s last season, and just a season removed from a Favre interception in the NFC Championship game and a potential game winning kick by Ryan Longwell from playing in a Super Bowl.

Brett Favre was considered almost godlike among Packers fans for the better half of almost two decades. It seemed like pretty much everyone in the great state of Wisconsin owned a number four jersey. Even when on vacation or out of the state a person would ask you where you are from and reply Wisconsin, the next thing mentioned from that inquiring person would be a statement that included his name. An example would be “Oh, you must be a huge Packers fan. That Brett Favre is a hell of a quarterback.” The man was synonymous with the state and its citizens. Over his tenure as the Pack’s qb, he became Wisconsin’s adopted son.

Then on March 4, 2008, Favre said he was done with football for good and held a tear-filled retirement speech a few days later in the Lambeau Field Atrium. The rest is history. His first unretirement created a rift among Packers fans and “Favre fans.” It even caused people to tell Aaron Rodgers during training camp that they hated him, he sucks, and things of that nature. Favre was quickly traded to the New York Jets ending his time with the Packers organization. The Jets had a collapse at the end of the season that cost them a playoff berth and the Packers missed the playoffs. During that first season A.F. (after Favre) fans at Lambeau still wore Packers and Jets Favre jersey’s. The state even bought broadcasting rights with the Jets so people in Wisconsin could still watch “their favorite quarterback.” Then the second retirement came. Again, this lasted only a few short months. He came back and signed with the hated Minnesota Vikings.

This time though it was becoming quite obvious what Favre’s true motivations and colors were. A me-first and a my way or the highway kind of guy. This turned people against him and revealed to everyone that maybe this guy actually is just a jackass. Signing with the Vikings also didn’t help, but that’s an obvious point to anyone who follows the NFL. Playing for the Jets, we Packer fans could handle, but the Vikings!? It was all sorts of wrong on so many levels. Anyway, his legacy in Green Bay took a major blow during this time. However, Favre somehow managed to pull a “He did WHAT!!??” type of season, which was by some standards his best statistically and brought the Vikes within a game of going to a Super Bowl and ol’ Brett could ride out into the sunset like he always wanted too (finishing with a Super Bowl win was something Favre became obsessed with after losing Super Bowl XXXII to John Elway and the Denver Broncos). His performance for that season kept him in the good graces of some faithful remaining Favre fans/Packers fans, even though he was playing for the fucking VIKINGS! (Which we all knew was a total “F-YOU” directed towards Ted Thompson and some Packers fans interpreted it as an “F-YOU” to them as well). But hey, the Vikings didn’t go to the Super Bowl so life was good, and we could stick it to Vikings fans again about not winning when it matters the most, plus a Favre interception joke was warranted.

This last season was quite different though. Favre took a huge hit in the eyes of Packers fans both figuratively and literally. This season was full of bad news of Favre that Packers fans knew of, but liked to keep in the dark; such as the “sexting” and voicemails left to Jenn Sterger (Favre’s womanizing in the Green Bay-Appleton area was no secret among fans for most of the 1990’s), the accusations from two Jets massage therapists, and the terrible showing that was Favre’s performance this year. He took hard hitting hits and for once was not able to shake them off. During this time, Favre’s successor, Aaron Rodgers (who was still being booed during this summer’s Family Night scrimmage mind you) and the Packers were struggling to make a push to make the playoffs after talks of the Super Bowl earlier in the summer. Well, A-Rodg proved that he is one of the elite quarterbacks in this league, the Packers made the playoffs and WON THE WHOLE FREAKING THNG! Who would ever think that Favre’s last season in the league the Packer’s would win it all and he wasn’t the qb!? This Super Bowl win happened pretty soon after he left and it also puts to rest all of the Favre related questions and comparisons to Rodgers.

So, what is his legacy in Green Bay as of now? Packers President Mark Murphy said after the SB victory that Favre was welcome back and that they will have some things to discuss concerning retiring his number 4 and such. Great public relations move and now the ball is in Favre’s court. This means that he will always have a legacy among the organization, but what about the fans? Will they stand and cheer when his number four is put on the façade of Lambeau next to guys like Reggie White and Bart Starr, or will they turn their backs? It was always a question of when Favre is no longer a Packer, “what will it be like for the next qb and how long will it take to win another Super Bowl?” That question was answered, and rather quickly. Also, A-Rodg has shown through his actions and answers to the media that he is a man of class, something that was revealed to be lacking in Favre’s life this last year. Only time will tell how Brett Favre will now be remembered among Packers fans. He can only hope that it is a positive one, because in a way, he deserves it. I’m positive since February 6, Favre pondered the question “will they still love me in Green Bay?” while breaking up a beaver dam on his Mississippi property. I guess only time will tell.

-Adam 

Can't Touch This

I found this little bit by Super Bowl Champ Clay Matthews.  On another note I think it still shows how amazingly dull the NFL is in regards to having fun, something myself and fellow writers have complained about over the course of the year.  Look I'm all for keeping the game safe, but taking the fun out of the game is exactly what you should not do when you want to increase the growing popularity of your game.  This further shows why the NFL stands for "No Fun League." Clay Matthews' stunt on the stage after the Super Bowl didn't hurt anyone and it's not like he was getting paid by WWE to take the belt on stage with him.  He was simply living in the moment on the world's biggest stage.  At least he didn't smoke a bong or flip off the crowd, I mean c'mon man, let boys be boys here.  But anyways, here's a little story and some dialogue I found from the Claymaker in regards to him presenting the belt to SB MVP Aaron Rodgers on stage:

'According to an early clip released by The Tonight Show, Matthews said that NFL officials weren’t happy when he presented quarterback Aaron Rodgers a championship belt that he had sneaked onto the stage during the trophy presentation after the Super Bowl.


“In fact, the next day I heard about it,” he said on the show, which airs tonight. “They wanted to know how I got it and why I brought it up on stage. But you can’t say a whole lot to us. We’re world champs.” '

In the end though, I just love the attitude from him. And I echo those statements.

-Pat

Mayor Cheddar McFarley

Chris Farley. Andre 'Bad Moon' Rison.  All in the same video.  No more words needed, kick back and enjoy.

Finally, Aaron Rodgers Is Wisconsin's Son

I know you have probably read everything on Aaron Rodgers in the last three days, but let me provide you with my own personal spin on a guy who sixty-five percent of the fanbase didn't want as their quarterback in 2008. According to Aaron Nagler of Cheesehead TV said people were still booing Aaron during the family night scrimmage in 2010. I wish Rodgers would have thrown a football into the stands like Maximus did with his sword yelling "Are you not entertained?!" But that's not Rodgers' personality. 


I am not trying to rewrite the Ted Thompson post from earlier, but to sum it up, the guy took a lot of unnecessary shit. Rodgers never shouted at people, called out these fans, or anything like that. A-Rod went about his business and acted like a complete professional. In my opinion, there aren't a lot of quarterbacks who could of handle the pressure Rodgers faced. There have been countless examples of players taking over for a legend after they retire and fall flat on their face. Not only did Rodgers do that, but he dealt with Brett Favre's desire to comeback was something he shrugged it off like an annoying pest. 



Once life began after Favre started people's criticism of Rodgers became so unbelievably picky. After multiple late game struggles in his first starting season, some gave him the title of not being able to win close games after struggling to comeback.  No one remembers how bad the defense was that year. The next year the new title for Rodgers became he couldn't win playoff games after losing 51-45 fumbling to Karlos Dansby at the end of the game. Remind you, this is one game of proof. Despite that these people believed it was the proof they needed to show he didn't have this supposed clutch gene. By the end of this year, he flashed another title...World Champion.  


Rodgers put together one of the best postseasons by a quarterback. He went into hellacious Philadelphia where number 4 couldn't win in the playoffs, he handled the dome atmosphere by dissecting Atlanta like Dr. Gregory House, did just enough to beat the hated Chicago Bears, and finished it off by beating Pittsburgh, the supposed best defense in National Football League. Even before the playoff appearance, people began to accept Rodgers as one of their own.


While sports figures shouldn't be the go-to role models for children, Aaron Rodgers should be next in line after his father/mother/brother/sister.  He carries himself with a swagger instead of being a robot (cough Peyton, Albert, cough), he keeps a chip on his shoulder no matter how big he gets, and he never dissed any of his doubters. Unlike his predecessor Mr. Favre who drank too much, womanize beyond his limits, and had a pain addiction, Rodgers carries himself in such a better manner.  My favorite thing I saw from Rodgers this week was when someone tweeted him about not using the social media giant Twitter during the season... 


" I have a strong desire to be great. Gotta stay focused."  


Keep it up Aaron, now 100 percent of Green Bay's fan base and others around the nation are behind you 


-Charlie.

This One Is For Ted

How many of you hated Ted Thompson?

If I had a dollar for every time I saw a negative Facebook status, or WisSports post about Ted Thompson in the last five years, I would probably have near 2000 dollars or even more who knows.  People were not ready for a  new boss in town who had different ideas than the others before him. I hope everyone who despised him sent Teddy a nice fruit basket telling him you are sorry.  

I liked being a part of a minority who trusted Thompson for the most part. I never once questioned getting rid of Brett Favre in 2008, and always told people 'there is a reason he has a job, and we do not.'  Thompson knew the future was bright for Aaron Rodgers and also started building a team around him.  On offense drafting guys like Greg Jennings, Jermichael Finley, Jordy Nelson, and James Jones started the movement. On defense, Thompson started over by signing guys like Charles Woodson and Ryan Pickett then drafting A.J. Hawk, Clay Matthews, B.J. Raji, and Nick Collins.  Almost all of the key contributors to the Super Bowl team, Thompson had his hand in, which is not something you always hear about with general managers.

This will be always known as the team that Thompson built, and I hope he took sometime to reflect about all the decisions he made during his five years as General Manager. He never really listened to the fans, or the players because he knew there was a system to make this team successful. I hope people continue to sing his praises for years to come, but when they criticize him now, they will just go 'I know TT won us a Super Bowl BUT...'

Let's face it, he makes unpopular decisions all the time. Thompson does not care if the player is a fan favorite with the Cheesehead nation. If it doesn't make sense to keep him on the team, then he will not be on the team. I worry the first backlash might start if the Packers decide they do not need John Kuhn next year. Obviously, if it makes sense, they will keep Kuhn but I do think there is a potential that Kuhn will not be in a Packer uniform. Thompson doesn't care about making an unpopular decision, and that will always piss people off.  But you know does make those popular fan decisions?  Dan Snyder and Jerry Jones. Do they have a playoff win in the last decade by doing that?  Nope, no they don't.

As always,  in Ted I trust.

-Charlie.
        
    

The Moment We Never Expected

After Sunday's victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, we made a beeline to Water Street. We wanted to be with as many Packers as possible in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. I loved it. Nobody got mad that the bars were completely packed, and even Jack Bauer could figure out how to get a drink. Most there were drunk with happiness anyways.  

Additionally, no one cared it was Sunday night with class on the horizon on Monday. With the amount of people out, it felt like the Saturday night of homecoming. It's hard to know how many times I yelled 'Go Pack Go' with the countless Packer fans. I know it had to be over 20 with my voice being at medium strength on Monday.  Easily, the best night out in Eau Claire in my four years of living here.

One of my friends asked me how it was going and I replied... "How the ---- you think?! WE JUST WON THE SUPER BOWL!" then proceeded to give him a celebratory hug. I believe the happiness was at another level because nobody expect us to even be here. If Ryan Grant, Nick Barnett, and Jermichael Finley played all year leading the Packers to a 13-3 or 12-4 record with Aaron Rodgers being MVP then going on to win the Super Bowl; I don't believe the excitement is the same as it was last night. Still today, this is a holy shit moment in any level of sports that you get every once in awhile no matter what fanbase you belong to, and you never know when it will happen to one of  your favorite teams.  

When the Packers were 3-3 and lost their second straight game against the Miami Dolphins, my buddy Bails and I exchanged texts discussing how if the Packers finished 9-7 and missed the playoffs, I am okay with it because of all the injuries. It appeared Green Bay couldn't catch a break to save their souls, and I didn't believe they could do it.  The 7-3 lost to Detroit led me to a tweet where I called the Packers, the team of what ifs and snakebites.  No matter what happened, it appeared the Packers couldn't catch a break until December 19th when everything changed.  

Sitting in my living room with my parents relishing the fact the Milwaukee Brewers got Zack Greinke, but upset that Philadelphia Eagles couldn't beat the New York Giants with the G-Men up by 21 because it put the Packers playoff hopes in serious doubt. We turned over to a meaningless Indianapolis-Jacksonville in hopes of a better game...fail, but then DeSean Jackson happened. We flip back over to see Michael Vick leading the troops down the field for the game tying touchdown then the Eagles forced a 3 and out expecting overtime where anything can happen.  Not so fast my friend!  Jackson takes Matt Dodge's punt to the house cracking the door open for the Packers, giving them a real chance for the playoffs. 

Once that door became cracked, the Packers knock it down in the coming weeks.  Injuries stopped happening and we began to see this team start to gel as a whole. The Special Teams stopped being a problem, the line protected Rodgers like Fort Knox, and the defense continued to play strong. I am not calling it luck or karma by any means, it just felt like the Packers entered an era of good feelings unlike the Pack had all throughout the season.  

I love watching these guys because they cared about each other. Never did I think someone was playing selfishly, or trying to make a moment all about them. The Packers did have drama but they never had a player disrupt anything they were trying to do. To be a winner, you have to be cocky sometimes and the Packers told people to book tickets for Dallas in August, and backed it up in February.  What a great start to the Wisconsin sports year.

-Charlie.  

The SI Cover You Have All Been Waiting For..

Grandpa Dan said he wanted to frame the different things ranging from various newspapers and magazines all over the United States. I liked this idea as well, and I am a fan of this cover. The two guys who played the best on the offensive side of the football.  Props to 1250 WSSP's Mike Wickett (@mikewickett) for the shot on Twitter.

-Charlie.

The Scene on Milwaukee's East Side

This gem of a video really sums up the celebration of the Packers victory in Super Bowl XLV in the UWM neighborhood. Now I see why the traffic was backed up so badly on Oakland Avenue. Things like this were happening throughout the city.

If I'm completely honest, it was tough to not be a Packer fan yesterday. How could I resist? Being surrounded by several other red-blooded Wisconsinites, I was just as pumped for the game to begin. The beer and Jim Beam were flowing but that was just a tributary to a day that would have been Super anyway (pun intended there).



Sports bring strangers together and make them the best of friends for short while. It is truly unlike anything else in the world. And as ESPN columnist Rick Reilly stated, you had to root for Green Bay. They've done what no other franchise could do by staying in the "small town" where it originated.

There are many more videos like this one to be seen on YouTube. Props to the account Blizzink for the upload.

-Mitch

Super Bowl Champs

Super Bowl Champs.  Damn that felt good.  Much more to come later today.

-Charlie.

It's All Come Down To This.

I wrote a poem about the Green Bay Packers 1997 Super Bowl run for my 2nd grade class. Today, it proudly hangs in my bedroom in a frame. I read it every once in awhile reflecting on how special that season was for my childhood. I watched the game with my parents and 4 year old sister.  No one else around us, just the family. It's how we wanted and how we still do it with playoff games. I mean no disrespect to anyone, but I can't be around people who don't focus on the game. I need people who are as dialed in as me. My whole family is invested in the Packers' success.

I also remember the 1998 Super Bowl how I cried in my room for a good 10 minutes afterwards. I thought the Packers were invincible and people made it seem like John Elway choked away big game situations. I thought the Packers would steamroll the Broncos, oh how wrong I was. I hated Elway from that day forward and still feel ill-will when I hear "This one... for John."  Looking back on it, I can never forgive Mike Holmgren for playing prevent defense for the Broncos' final drive.

After the Packers lost last season, I felt sick. I explained to my dad,"I am unlike you because there are 80 things you have to worry about each day, I have like five, the Packers being one of them, it hurts."  I believe a lot of 18 to 25 year olds feel that way, and care so much that a loss will cripple them for a couple days or weeks if it's a horrible one like Big Ben winning the game in under 2 minutes. When they win, it puts you in a better mood and everything in life seems easy.  I am not sure if many fan bases can say that about their football team. People bleed green and gold all over the United States and around the world. I hope that all the Packer fans who are overseas are able to watch their team try to bring back the Lombari Trophy to its rightful owner.

As for the game, I feel strangely confident for this one more than I have in the past five weeks. I hate myself for saying that but it's true. Maurkice Pouncey not being able to play will affect this game more than anything else. The center position is very important on the football field and when going up against B.J. Raji, it could be a nightmare for the Steelers. The other thing, the Steelers cornerbacks aren't special. Bryant McFadden plays off, which will allow for the quick plays like slants and screens from the wide receivers. All I ask is if the Packers have a chance to step on the Steelers' throat, do it. If they give Ben Roethlisberger extra chances, they will lose... simple as that. I like the Packers to win 31-21 

Remember, just like last week.. Win or lose, this has been one of a hell ride and I'm glad to be a part of it.  Go Pack Go.

-Charlie.

What the Packers Should Do About James Harrison

I am convinced that the Super Bowl between the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers will be decided on the arms of the two quarterbacks. Ben Roethlisberger is a proven winner in big games, and Aaron Rodgers in these playoffs, when healthy, has shown his tremendous passing prowess.

Now, I add the "when healthy" qualifier because I firmly believe Rodgers was completely out of it for the second half of the Bears NFC Championship game in which he an uncharacteristic 2 INTs. Julius Peppers hit Rodgers helmet-to-helmet and Rodgers was not the same quarterback we saw in the Philadelphia and Atlanta games.



James Harrison, linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers has been fined thousands of dollars for late and malicious hits this season. Although he protests that the commissioner is penalizing him unfairly, these types of hits are exactly the kind that could alter Rodgers' passing attack. I firmly believe that if Harrison hits Rodgers late or above the head, the lineman of the Packers should take into their hands what the commissioner does not seem to be able to do.

CHOP HIS ASS! Take a lesson from the NHL and let your lineman end his season.

Clifton should engage and hold up Harrison while both the center and the guards take out his knees. They should look down on him writhing in pain and say, "you go after our quarterback, we will take the 15 yard penalty but you aren't walking again for another 4 months." Too many quarterbacks and wide receivers have been injured by this dirty player already in this season, and he has only faced a monetary fine.

The second somebody would hit Sidney Crosby high, three defenseman would thrash the person who did it. The Green Bay Packers should do what other teams in the league have failed to do. Harrison should feel what it is like being defenseless for a change.

If Harrison decides to go after Rodgers, I will be screaming at the television to chop his ass and end his season. Even writing this piece, I feel the competitive juices flowing. It may sound terrible, but if the Green Bay Packers want to send a message to the Steelers and the rest of the league that Aaron Rodgers isn't to be "cheap shotted," sending Harrison off the field in a cart is what the Packers must do.

This is what McCarthy should say if this scenario plays out.

"He went high on Rodgers, so my lineman went low on him. James Harrison is a proven cheap shot artist that hit Aaron in the helmet. The referees refused to enforce their own rules by ejecting him, so we decided as a team to forcibly remove him from the field. 15 yards in penalties is nothing compared to the well-being of our quarterback."

If Harrison late hits or goes high on Rodgers, I pray the Packers take it into their hands and make the picture at the top of this post a reality. Harrison should lie on his back wishing he hadn't messed with #12.

One Last Time, For Old Time's Sake

I've been beating this horse all season, and now that were just 48 hours away from the biggest Packer game in the last 13 years the message still rings true.  The Packers have to make an attempt to stay balanced against the Steelers on Sunday in order to bring the Lombardi Trophy back to Green Bay. 

Don't get me wrong, the Packers will win the game if and only if Aaron Rodgers is effective through the air.  The Steelers have proven all year that their glaring defensive weakness is the short, quick passing game (just look at the New England game if you don't believe me). 

That being said, the Packers' offensive line cannot and will not hold up against the ferocious Pittsburgh pass rush if there is no threat of a running game.  If the Pittsburgh outside linebackers can pin their ears back and get after Rodgers without having to worry about keeping contain or crashing down on a run Aaron will have a better chance of ending up in the hospital than winning the game. 

Its obvious that the Packer's aren't going to be breaking off 10-15 yard gains on the ground on Sunday, but we need to keep the Steelers honest.  Contrary to what the back seat quarterbacks on Water St think, a one yard gain in the first quarter has a lot of value.  You might be angry when the Packers plow ahead for small 2-3 yard gains in the first quarter, but I'll guarantee that you'll be jumping with joy when Rodgers hits Jennings for 30 yards on a play action pass in the 4th.  In my opinion the Packers need to attempt AT LEAST 15 runs on Sunday (not including scrambles by Rodgers).  Ideally I would like to see them get to 18-20 rushes.

It seems that the stars are aligned for the Packers to win this game: the Steelers' one major weaknesses is Green Bay's biggest strength and the game is being played in a dome which clearly favors the Packers' more finesse style of play, and .  If the Packers' lose this game it will be for one of two reasons:

1) They get overwhelmed by the moment and don't show up - Judging by everything I've seen from the Packers in the past I have no reason to believe that this will happen.  However, like we saw in the AFC Championship game, if the Steelers can jump out to a quick lead its damn near impossible to recover.  When the Steelers get a lead they run the ball down your throat and control the clock and their defense gets even more aggressive. 

2) They went away from what got them there - I've seen it too many times from the Packers to not be worried.  McCarthy has a history of turning to the sexy play calls in big moments instead of going with the old standbys that have been working all season.  The Packers' can't afford to try and throw the ball 30 yards down the field against this Steelers' defense.  We need to stick to our west coast scheme and dink and dunk our way  to the Lombardi Trophy.