Hey everybody, thanks for logging on today. I see questions already coming in so I’ll just get started.
I feel really bad for Narveson. A good kid with a strong leg. He was so excited to be a Packer. Now it’s over.
He was given ample opportunity to prove himself, especially on a contending team that’s expecting to win.
Hey Mike, hope all is well in GB! I woke up to mid 30s in St. Louis, Missouri today. How’s the weather up there? Is there a temperature limit for the team to move practice inside?
It was chilly this morning but it’ll be in the 50s for practice and rising the rest of the week. I expect the team to practice outside mostly this week.
Will the coaches try to cool off Jaire Alexander a little?
I’m sure there has been a discussion regarding his unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, but the team is going to keep that within the team.
Mike, great job with WYMM! Loved the focus on the O-line after a great game for them. I found myself going back each play to watch every player, especially the TEs, and then you had a bonus play covering their own blocking too! Awesome stuff.
Yeah, that was a lot of fun. I really thought the O-line played an outstanding game Sunday and wanted to take the time to put the spotlight once on each guy up front.
Looks like the kickers tree did have a kicker available.
Yup, and I know there are a lot of questions out there about McManus, so I’ll address it here and then we’ll move on. I trust the Packers did their due diligence to be comfortable making this move. I would imagine the fact that there have been no criminal charges filed, and the NFL, after investigating, did not believe the allegations warranted discipline under the personal conduct policy, factored into the team’s decision. Beyond that, I will wait until I hear from the head coach and/or general manager before commenting further on the off-field issue. They know far more than I do, and it would be irresponsible of me to speak out of turn. The Packers obviously felt a change at kicker was needed, and there’s no arguing that. They believe this is their best option and we’ll see how he performs.
Will Wicks injury keep him out of practice?
I’ll find out in about an hour.
Mike, After a slow start, what do you think the chances are this year for the New York Packers?
If the Jets can get better play from their offensive line, that offense with Rodgers, Adams, Wilson, Hall, Allen and others could be pretty good. But every time I watch them, I see Rodgers getting hit and hobbling around. That’s not going to work.
Will you and Wes be in all white?
I don’t own any white pants, so I guess the answer is no.
We have been spoiled with Chris Jacke, Ryan Longwell and Mason Crosby.
Indeed. And now after nearly 1 1/2 seasons with rookies, the Packers are turning to a veteran to get the job done. Hard to argue in that regard.
I suppose this is a packers by proxy Q. But what did you think of the Tae trade? a second round pick seems pretty cheap
Considering what the Raiders gave up to get him and the cap hits they’re taking the next two years due to the contract he signed, it’s rather minimal return.
The new kicker has bounced around a bit. Why do you think he has never stuck with one team?
He spent the bulk of his career with Denver. Nine years to be exact. Then was with Jacksonville last year, and Washington this year before being released.
Hopefully with the change at kicker the unsure feeling when the field goal group comes on the field will be a little better!
That’s the goal. I did some statistical research. A lot of stories out there are pointing to McManus’ 81.4% career FG rate. He’s 45 of 82 in his career from 50-plus, a respectable 55% from long distance. From inside 50, he’s at 91% for his career. Plus he’s only missed 9 PATs, in 9 years, from the 33-yard distance, so one per year on average. Carlson missed 5 of those last year.
Carrington Valentine didn’t see the field last game. Different story this week with more WE weapons, or is he just odd man out with current amount of talent?
It appears with the nickel defense — which is what is played most often, 5 DBs — the Packers are going with the O-line type approach with putting their best 5 on the field. Which based on playing time last game is Xavier McKinney,** Evan Williams,** Javon Bullard, Alexander and Keisean Nixon.** Eric Stokesonly played 16 defensive snaps last game. Having Stokes and Valentine for depth as 6th and 7th DBs is not a bad place to be.**
Hi, Mike! Here’s something I think is super interesting, assuming it’s accurate. Hoping you can confirm. There have been more GB fans in the stands for each of the first three away games. And the trend will almost certainly continue with the game in Jacksonville at the end of the month. That will give the Packers a “home fan” advantage in 10 straight games to start the season. Can’t remember something like that happening before.
Yeah, that’s probably true. It’s been great to see the Packers reward their fans in the visiting stadiums with wins at Nashville and LA this year.
I’m surprised Jets haven’t signed Bak…
Who’s to say they won’t? I have no idea what his health status is or how much money he would ask to continue playing, but until he signs elsewhere I wouldn’t say the door is closed.
With the other RBs gaining more trust, do we see more of two RB as MLF talked about pre-season with AJ Dillon?
It’s a long season, and while Josh Jacobs is clearly RB1 here, there’s no need to wear him out, especially with the Packers hoping to be playing deep into January. It’s been impressive what Emanuel Wilson has done in just his second season after limited playing time as a rookie.