Packers.com

Favre Looks To Continue His Supremacy Against The Bears

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 30 Nov 2005 18:59:09 CST

During his career Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre has dominated his team's archrival, the Chicago Bears.

The 15-year-veteran owns an 11-1 record in Soldier Field, but on Sunday he will command a 2-9 team into the hostile environment of the 8-3 NFC North division leaders.

"I'm sure Bears fans across the country don't feel sorry for the Packers," Favre said. "We've been on top for a long time."

Favre could not pinpoint a reason for his mastery of the Bears. But he knows must avoid throwing costly interceptions for his success to continue. The Bears have forced 16 -- tied for third best in the NFL -- while Favre has thrown an NFL-leading 19.

"You have to be protective of the ball, which I haven't done," Favre said.

Last Sunday the Packers trailed by six against the Philadelphia Eagles with 59 seconds to play. His hot read, Donald Driver, ran a take-off stop and comeback route. Instead of going to Driver, Favre heaved a desperation p..

Heart-To-Heart With Sherman Improved Carroll's Performance

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 30 Nov 2005 18:42:02 CST

A watershed moment for Ahmad Carroll occurred after the Atlanta Falcons game. Head Coach Mike Sherman called him up to his third floor office in Lambeau Field. As Carroll exited the same door frame Vince Lombardi used in his office, he left a different player.

"The talk I had with Coach Sherman really helped me a lot," Carroll said. "He told me when I walk outside that door, 'Don't let it be us just having another talk. You want to leave out here knowing you're going to be one of the great athletes and great defensive backs that walked through this door.'"

Carroll took a big step toward that goal Sunday with one of his best games as a professional, making two tackles and knocking down five passes against the Philadelphia Eagles.

"He did a great job," cornerback Al Harris said. "He's come a long way."

Carroll knows he still has a ways to go. He has made several big plays this year, including the team's first turnover of the season -- a 38-yard inter..

Remmel: Packers vs. Bears

Lee Remmel, Packers.com — Tue, 29 Nov 2005 16:00:09 CST

Even in these days of monster numbers in the NFL's collective passing game, most notably those being amassed with great frequency by the highly productive Peyton Manning, the 400-yard passing performance is hardly commonplace.

For pertinent example, there has been only one such effort recorded in the first 12 weeks of the current season--covering nearly 200 games--that by the St. Louis Rams' Marc Bulger back in the fourth weekend of the campaign.

A performance of those majestic dimensions has been even more of a rarity in Packers history. In point of fact, there have been just three 400-yard passing performances in the team's 85-year annals, spanning 1,100-plus games--or an average of one for every 350 games they have played to date.

The first was recorded by Don Horn, a first-round draft selection (1967) who threw for 410 yards against the then St. Louis Cardinals in 1969 en route to a 45-28 victory in the Packers' regular season finale that season.
..

Notebook: Cole Reaps Benefits Of His Consistency

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Mon, 28 Nov 2005 17:47:32 CST

Defensive tackle Colin Cole earned his second career start on Sunday.

"It was a reward," defensive coordinator Jim Bates said.

Cole replaced Cullen Jenkins in the starting lineup, but the Packers continued their defensive tackle rotation with Cole, Jenkins, Grady Jackson and Kenny Peterson each receiving snaps.

"It wasn't a knock against Cullen Jenkins as much as it was Cole had proven himself to be equal in stature with our starters," Head Coach Mike Sherman said.

The coaching staff lauded Cole's ability to stay square to the line of scrimmage, use his hands to disengage from blocks and hold up at the point of attack.

Cole made three tackles on the day and has 44 on the year -- a very high total for a defensive lineman in the Packers' scheme. Their main responsibility involves occupying blockers rather than making tackles.

Cole spent 10 weeks on the Packers' practice squad before Green Bay activated him last year. In his secon..

Bubba Franks Receives Dose Of Good News

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Mon, 28 Nov 2005 17:31:37 CST

Bubba Franks left Sunday's game on a stretcher, but medical examinations showed his neck injury to be less severe than originally feared.

"Everything came back very positively," Head Coach Mike Sherman said.

Thirty-nine seconds into the second quarter of Sunday's game, Franks turned inside to make a reception when Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins hit him with his shoulder. The blow sent Franks to the turf. After the play Dawkins and other Eagles players prayed for him as trainers and doctors wheeled him away on a stretcher.

As a precautionary measure Franks stayed overnight in a Philadelphia hospital. Sherman talked to him over the telephone on Sunday night. He said Franks was doing well.

"He was in good spirits," Sherman said. "He was experiencing a little bit of back pain, but nothing to the extent that he was yesterday on the field."

Franks was scheduled to fly back to Green Bay, Wis. on Monday. He has recovered quickly enough t..

Live Press Conferences On Packers.com!

Mon, 28 Nov 2005 01:29:06 CST

Click here for live VIDEO!

Keep checking back for archived audio and video of all press conferences and locker room interviews.

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Live Press Conference Video Schedule
* all times Central and subject to change

Monday, November 28:
Mike Sherman: approx. 12 noon

Wednesday, November 30:
Mike Sherman: approx. 11:45 a.m.
Brett Favre: approx. 3:00 p.m. (Updated Time)

Friday, December 2:
Mike Sherman: approx. 12 noon

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Be sure to join Packers.com this season as we provide streaming video coverage..

Packers Fumble Away Opportunities

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Sun, 27 Nov 2005 21:08:10 CST

Although fueled by an effective running game not present in their previous losses, the Green Bay Packers lost three fumbles and the game to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Perhaps the most critical Packers fumble in their 19-14 loss occurred with 4:31 remaining. Down 16 to 14, the Packers missed out on an excellent chance for Brett Favre to add to his 34 fourth-quarter comebacks. Eagles linebacker Mark Simoneau forced kickoff returner Andrae Thurman to fumble, and Ryan Moats recovered on the Packers' 25-yard-line. With a short field, the Eagles only needed to drive 10 yards, and kicker David Akers nailed a 33-yard field goal for the game's final score.

Turnovers overshadowed a strong performance from rookie running back Samkon Gado. With 26 carries for 111 yards, he surpassed 100 yards for the second time in the last three games. His best play occurred in the first quarter. He ran 33 yards for a touchdown, eluding Pro Bowl safety Brian Dawkins with a spin move. That score ..

AP Story

Sun, 27 Nov 2005 19:26:02 CST

Without Donovan McNabb and Terrell Owens, the Philadelphia Eagles ' best scoring threat is a kicker.

David Akers made four field goals and quarterback Mike McMahon played an efficient, error-free game, leading Philadelphia to a 19-14 victory over the Green Bay Packers.

The reigning conference champion Eagles (5-6) snapped a four-game losing streak with their first win since Oct. 23 against San Diego.

"We didn't have a great offensive effort, but we found a way to win," said McMahon, who started his second straight game for the injured McNabb.

Samkon Gado ran for 111 yards and one touchdown for the Packers.

Green Bay (2-9) assured its first losing season since Brett Favre took over as starter in 1992, a run of 13 years that was the best in the league.

"We had a chance to win the game, but we find ways to let it slip away," Favre said. "We've had a chance to win every game, but we've won only two of them."

Playing wi..

Packers-Eagles Press Box Notes

Sun, 27 Nov 2005 13:20:34 CST

TODAY: Two of the most prominent members of the Mike Holmgren coaching tree, good friends Andy Reid and Mike Sherman, square off for the fifth time. Sherman earned his first NFL victory by beating Reid in 2000, but the Eagles' coach has secured the last three games. Sherman and Reid are the NFL's only coaches with active streaks of five consecutive winning seasons...Green Bay bids for its first win in Philadelphia since Nov. 11, 1962. Including the 2003 playoffs, the Packers have lost seven straight in the City of Brotherly Love...The Packers look to rebound from a pair of tough losses in their intial two trips to Lincoln Financial Field...The teams are meeting in Philadelphia for a third straight season because both teams won their divisions last year. Had Green Bay or Philadelphia finished in a different standing (first, second, etc.), the Packers would be traveling to meet a different NFC East foe in 2005...Mike Sherman has knocked off the defending NFC champion on the road..

Majik: Packers-Eagles Features Two Battered Teams

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Sat, 26 Nov 2005 17:09:14 CST

This game will not at all be what the NFL schedule makers envisioned at the beginning of the season. This was supposed to be a game with potential playoff implications. It was supposed to feature Brett Favre leading a high-powered Packers offense into Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field to face Donovan McNabb, Terrell Owens and the NFC-defending champion Eagles. The Eagles are still the defending champions, but their wings have been clipped. Like the snake-bitten Packers, they've been hit with many key injuries, including McNabb, who is out for the season with a sports hernia.

Owens is out for the season, too, but for very different reasons. I must say that I applaud the arbitrator's decision to uphold all of the sanctions imposed by the Eagles for Owens' outrageous behavior. T.O. deserves everything he's getting right now. He brought all of these actions on himself. He had plenty of time to show sincere remorse, and I just thought he handled the whole situation the wrong..

Sherman Considers Re-Shuffling The Offensive Line

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Fri, 25 Nov 2005 18:12:13 CST

Although the Packers have allowed the second least number of sacks in the NFL, the offensive line needs to open up more holes for their 31st-ranked running game.

For that reason Head Coach Mike Sherman continues to ponder a shakeup along the interior of the offensive line.

"I'm going to play (Grey) Ruegamer some. I'm going to play (William) Whitticker some. Ruegy may play right side, may play left side," Sherman said. "We're just trying to find the right combination there."

During Thursday's practice Ruegamer played the majority of the snaps at right guard. The offensive line's utility man, Ruegamer has moved from left guard, to right guard, to center and now back to right guard since training camp began.

Whitticker has started every game at right guard since the season opener, but a poor practice and an inability to finish his blocks led to his demotion.

"I've got to work hard during practice and I wasn't doing that. That's what resulted ..

Thanksgiving: How The Packers Spend Their Meal

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Thu, 24 Nov 2005 11:56:45 CST

While many people hit the road during Thanksgiving, traveling to various destinations around the country to visit family, the Packers can do no such thing. With practices scheduled on Thursday and Friday, the players do not receive a day off, but they do congregate for various feasts.

Some share a festive meal with their families. Others dine with teammates. And several eat with both.

For the second straight year, Chad Clifton and his wife Candy will host 20 to 25 people, including Mark Tauscher, Ryan Longwell, B.J. Sander, Mike Flanagan, Grey Ruegamer, Aaron Kampman, Junius Coston, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and several of the players' wives and children. About 40 pounds of turkey are on hand. Clifton deep fries two turkeys while each attendant brings a dish. The Longwells supply the cornbread casserole and pecan pie.

"The wives have been e-mailing each other, and they've got it figured out," Kampman said. "We're going to have quite a smorgasbord."

Man..

Favre, Not Rodgers, Will Remain Every-Down Starter

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 23 Nov 2005 19:28:49 CST

Stick a fork in a rumor that has circulated around sports bars for several weeks.

Head Coach Mike Sherman has no plans on playing Aaron Rodgers instead of Brett Favre -- even for a series.

"I don't consider that right now," Sherman said. "The objective is to win the game."

The Packers might have pondered such a move if they knew Rodgers -- not Favre -- would begin the season as the No. 1 quarterback in 2006. With no reason to believe Favre would retire at this point, Sherman will not end Favre's 215-game streak of consecutive starts by having him sit on the bench.

"If we were to do that, it would be an assumption that Brett's not going to be here next year. I'm not going to make that assumption right now," Sherman said. "He's not demonstrated that either by his words, by his actions or by his deeds."

Although some have speculated that a 2-8 season would cause Favre to hang it up, the 15-year veteran denies such a disappointing season woul..

Gado Focuses On Improving Ball Protection

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 23 Nov 2005 19:16:55 CST

Samkon Gado may have fumbled three times in his last two games, but he remained upbeat, even sporting a grin during Wednesday's locker room session.

"I wouldn't have a smile on my face if I knew I wasn't studying, I wasn't busting my tail in practice every day," Gado said. "I'm giving it the best effort I can give. I can't give any more."

Although Gado makes a case because of his work ethic, Head Coach Mike Sherman has not announced whether Gado or Tony Fisher will start at running back against the Philadelphia Eagles. After Gado fumbled on the second play of the second half, Sherman replaced Gado with Fisher for the rest of the Vikings game. Fisher responded with 14 yards on four carries.

No matter who starts, Gado will see action during the game.

"He's gonna play," Sherman said.

And when Gado does play, Sherman remains confident he will address his fumbling problems and run with the authority he showed while gaining 103 yards against the..

Majik: One-Dimensional Attack Proves Costly

Don Majkowksi, Special To Packers.com — Wed, 23 Nov 2005 16:42:25 CST

If you can't run the football, you're in trouble in the National Football League. Once again the Packers found that out the hard way with another agonizing loss to their cross-state rivals, the Minnesota Vikings. With no running game to speak of, Brett Favre once again had to rely on a depleted receiving corps to move the offense. That played right into Minnesota's hands, and the Vikings made the most of their opportunities.

Getting swept by the Vikings really hurts. It's frustrating for the players, the coaches and the fans to see Green Bay struggling with a 2-8 record. But, really there's not much mystery involved here. When the all of the injuries started to pile up, it was evident that this was going to be a very difficult year. To the Packers' credit, they've hung together. They've been in every game this year. Unfortunately, that doesn't get the job done.

Once again this game was a tale of two halves -- the same story as the first game between the Packers and ..

Ineffectiveness Of Rushing Offense And Defense Results In Loss

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2005 19:54:00 CST

The Packers lost two battles on Monday night with one leading to the other.

They lost the battle along the line of scrimmage and hence the game to the Minnesota Vikings, 20-17.

The Packers' running game, which showed so much promise when Samkon Gado became the first Packers running back to rush for more than 100 yards a week earlier, managed a paltry total of 21 yards.

Head Coach Mike Sherman cited the reason for the running game's lack of production.

"It's pretty obvious," he said. "We didn't block their defensive front."

The Williams' along the defensive interior -- Kevin and Pat -- combined for seven tackles. Pat Williams set the tone with 3:42 left in the first quarter by penetrating through the offensive line and dropping Gado for a five-yard loss.

"They have two Pro Bowl defensive linemen that were pretty prevalent in our lack of success," Sherman said.

Those players proved to be a difficult matchup for guards Willi..

Remmel: Packers vs. Eagles

Lee Remmel, Packers.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2005 16:59:30 CST

It may be gratuitously referred to as the City of Brotherly Love, but Philadelphia has been somewhat less than fraternal as far as the Packers' experiences in Philly are concerned - going back more than four decades.

For the record, it has been 43 years since the Green and Gold last won a game in the Pennsylvania metropolis, where the Eagles have taken Green Bay's measure seven times in succession during the lengthy interim.

It was Veterans Day in 1962 (Nov. 11), when the Packers last savored a victory on Philadelphia terrain. They essentially overran the Eagles that afternoon, 49-0, amassing a club-record 628 yards of offense (294 rushing and 334 passing), an imposing mark which still stands.

But that was then and this, assuredly, is now.

As the Packers' road encounter with the Philadelphia Eagles nears, veteran loyalists are visited by bittersweet memories of the Green and Gold's 1960 NFL Championship Game against the Eagles in Philly, staged o..

Live Press Conferences On Packers.com!

Tue, 22 Nov 2005 12:07:06 CST

Click here for live VIDEO!

Keep checking back for archived audio and video of all press conferences and locker room interviews.

***

Packers.com Live Video Schedule:
* all times Central and subject to change

Wednesday, November 23:
Mike Sherman: approx. 11:45 a.m.
Brett Favre: approx. 3:30 p.m.

Friday, November 25:
Mike Sherman: approx. 12:45 p.m.

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Be sure to join Packers.com this season as we provide streaming video coverage of the Packers' weekly press conferences in their entirety and free of c..

Notebook: Fumbling Problems Plague Gado

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2005 02:52:56 CST
After producing the two biggest rushing games of the season for the Packers, Samkon Gado managed only seven yards on 10 carries against the Minnesota Vikings.

"I didn't run the ball well enough for this team to win," Gado said. "You don't win games with the running production we had."

Gado's lowlight came 44 seconds into the third quarter. Linebacker E.J. Henderson forced a fumble, which fullback Vonta Leach recovered. Head Coach Mike Sherman then replaced Gado, who fumbled for the third time in two games, with Tony Fisher. Sherman did not notify Gado of the impending benching. But no explanation was necessary.

"He didn't talk to me at all, and he didn't need to. He didn't need to say a thing. I understood completely," Gado said. "If I was a coach, I would've done the same thing."

The rookie running back looked poised for another strong performance. On Green Bay's first offensive play, he rushed for six yards. On the second play of their second pos..

Packers Lose Both Sides of Rushing Battle

Nathan Hager, Packers.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2005 02:41:47 CST
It's difficult to win in the NFL when your team is having trouble stopping the run. It's even more difficult when your own offense can't get the rushing attack off the ground.

But when you have trouble in both areas, it makes for a nearly impossible hill to climb.

The Packers lost 20-17 at Lambeau Field Monday night as the Vikings put together a 58-yard drive with just over three minutes to go in the game, and Paul Edinger kicked a walk-off field goal of 27 yards.

Edinger's kick came after the Packers tied the score with a 46-yard field goal by Ryan Longwell, capping a 39-yard drive.

It was Edinger's second game winner against the Packers this season, but the heroes had to be the Vikings offensive and defensive lines. The offense, led by running back Mewelde Moore, averaged a robust 4.3 yards a carry on 37 attempts. Moore finished with 122 yards on 22 attempts for a whopping 5.5 yard average.

On the flip side, the Packers couldn't m..

AP Story: Vikings Win 20-17 At Lambeau Field

Tue, 22 Nov 2005 00:24:57 CST
The Minnesota Vikings offense awoke just in time to tear out the Packers' hearts as time expired -- again.

This kick was a tad easier.

A month after hitting a team-record 56-yarder to beat Green Bay at the Metrodome, Paul Edinger hit one from 27 yards to sink the Packers with a 20-17 victory that keeps Minnesota's season afloat.

Missing an injured Daunte Culpepper, rocked by lewd allegations from a boating trip and given up for almost dead a month ago, Minnesota is now 5-5 and still in the hunt for the playoffs after winning three in a row.

As for the Packers, their season is all but over after their division rival swept them for the first time since 1998.

"This one may be the worst because No. 1, it was Minnesota; No. 2, it was at home; and No. 3, it was Minnesota again," Green Bay defensive end Aaron Kampman said.

Minnesota has struggled mightily on offense since Culpepper was lost for the season with a knee injury, muster..

Letters To Majik

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Tue, 22 Nov 2005 13:01:09 CST
Hey Don, I was just wondering if the Packers did acquire Terrell Owens do you think that Brett Favre could handle him? - Bill, Naperville, Ill.

Bill, there's no question that Brett Favre could handle him. The question is does any team want a self-centered player like T.O. on their team. As good as he is, there is no reason to think that he will ever change his attitude toward the game and his teammates. Thanks but no thanks!

Do you think Samkon Gado is for real? I love his speed and age to go along with his power. Thanks. - Jeff, Kansas City

Jeff, Samkon has had two fine games thus far. It looks like this kid might have the tools to be on the team long term.

The Packers are currently four games behind the division-leading Chicago Bears. With four divisional games left and two of them being against the Bears (who have a tough schedule ahead of them), what do you think the Packers' chances are of pulling off another NFC North champ..

Packers-Vikings Press Box Notes

Mon, 21 Nov 2005 16:45:35 CST
TONIGHT: Brett Favre makes his 29th career start on Monday Night Football, his first against the Vikings since 2000, when Antonio Freeman hauled in a deflected pass and raced 43 yards for an overtime touchdown and an incredible 26-20 win...The Packers bid to improve their 9-4 Monday night record under Mike Sherman...With David Martin hopefully back to full-speed, the Packers will have their top three tight ends healthy for the first time since Week 2...Hoping to continue a positive trend started by Samkon Gado last week at Atlanta, two more individuals mark gameday birthdays today: defensive lineman Kenny Peterson and offensive line coach Larry Beightol.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR TONIGHT & IN COMING WEEKS -

NICK BARNETT:
-With 120 tackles in just nine games, is on pace for 213. The team record since coaches first began recording tackles in 1975 is 180 by Mike Douglass in 1981. From 1984-2004, the two highest totals for the club's leading tackler wer..

Kirwin: Packers Have The Edge By A Foot

Pat Kirwin, Special To NFL.com — Mon, 21 Nov 2005 16:20:22 CST
Of all the divisions in the National Football League, the NFC North, or the old 'black and blue' division as the long-standing fans affectionately call it, cares more about its division rivalries and the history of those games than any division in football. All I have to do is mention the Vikings or the Bears look like preseason favorites and Packers fans come out of the woodwork. Well, the Vikings and Packers are not having the greatest of seasons, but you will never be able to tell that if you are at Lambeau Field tonight. These two teams will play like the Super Bowl was on the line.

The Packer backers will forget about a 2-7 record for three hours and focus totally on sending the Vikings back across Wisconsin with their heads down. Brett Favre scrambling around in the pocket and firing a bullet to a receiver for a touchdown against the Vikings means more to these fans than just about anything. For former Packers defensive back and current Viking Darren Sharper, picking ..

Majik: Reinvigorated Packers Await Monday Night Clash

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Sun, 20 Nov 2005 11:05:36 CST
It was only one win, and the Green Bay Packers still have a long way to go if they're going to get back into the NFC North division race this season. Having said that, last week's victory on the road against the tough Atlanta Falcons boosted the confidence level of the Packers as they head into their Monday night match-up against their arch rivals, the Minnesota Vikings. The excitement level will be sky high at Lambeau Field, for the coaches and players and, of course, the fans who have agonized through so many difficult games this year.

This game also represents an opportunity for some serious payback to the Vikings for what happened in the Metrodome last month. That last-second loss was probably the Packers' most difficult defeat of the season. I'm sure the Packers, in the back of their minds, are very much looking forward to the opportunity to exact a bit of revenge. Coming off their big win at Atlanta, the Packers have to be feeling pretty good about themselves because t..

Driver Serves As Offense's Go-To Receiver

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Sat, 19 Nov 2005 15:15:08 CST
When the next big snowstorm hits Green Bay, maybe wide receiver Donald Driver should grab a shovel and head to Head Coach Mike Sherman's house.

"If he shovels my driveway this winter, that might be the ultimate of everything," Sherman said. "He's been phenomenal."

Driver has done everything for the Packers but clear Sherman's driveway. He leads the team in receptions with 51 and yards with 710. And he posted those numbers despite being a focus of opponents' gameplans week in and week out.

"He's gonna be a marked man," wide receiver Andrae Thurman said.

With Javon Walker (knee) and Terrence Murphy (neck) on injured reserve and Robert Ferguson (knee) having missed the last three games, defenses have made containing Driver their objective.

To combat that, the Packers have moved Driver all over the field. They also line him up in the slot -- where Antonio Chatman used to play. Because the slot receiver plays in a confined space between the li..

Ferguson Re-Injures Knee During Practice

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Fri, 18 Nov 2005 18:06:16 CST
Wide receiver Robert Ferguson's comeback may have been temporarily derailed.

According to a team spokesman, Ferguson had his left knee rolled up on while running a fade route during the last few plays of practice on Friday afternoon. He aggravated the same knee he injured during the first quarter of the Oct. 23 game against the Minnesota Vikings.

"We thought we were going to be back up," wide receiver Antonio Chatman said. "We don't know what to expect now."

Ferguson remains listed as questionable on the injury report. The team did not downgrade him but will re-evaluate his status on Saturday.

Ferguson's availability would allow the Packers to use a four-receiver set, featuring him, Chatman, Donald Driver and Andrae Thurman, for the first time since Ferguson initially hurt his left knee.

The fifth-year receiver had looked sharp while practicing during Thursday and Friday's sessions and repeatedly told members of the media that he would pla..

Shutdown Corner: Harris Playing At A Pro Bowl Level

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Fri, 18 Nov 2005 17:22:29 CST
When native Texan and Packers cornerback Mike Hawkins throws on a jersey to wear during his down time, he does not plan on taking a No. 22 Emmitt Smith off the rack. Or a retro classic like a No. 32 Jim Brown jersey. Or even a No. 4 Brett Favre jersey.

Hawkins will sport the No. 31 jersey of fellow defensive back Al Harris, which he asked Harris for on Wednesday.

"He's the best cornerback in the league," Hawkins said. "He's got everything. He's strong. He can run with anybody."

Indeed the jersey of the eight-year veteran would make for a timely fashion statement. Amidst perhaps the best season of his career, Harris has racked up 28 tackles, three sacks, two interceptions, a forced fumble, a touchdown and 11 passes defended. He has not surrendered a touchdown all year.

A steady performer throughout his career, Harris has received more national attention of late. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson told a group of local reporters that Harr..

Packers Fan Memories

Fri, 18 Nov 2005 15:46:35 CST
Read the 'Packers Fan Memories' archives or Submit your own favorite memory

This Week's Photos

Hey Packers fans, here's your chance to share with other fans from around the world your favorite memories of the Green and Gold!

Each week, Packers.com will post a new feature called 'Packers Fan Memories.'

Your first time at Lambeau Field... The first time you met a Packers legend... Your favorite piece of Packers memorabilia...Your family's pre-game tailgating ritual. You name it. We want to hear about it in 'Fan Memories' as Packers fans tell us about some of their most memorable moments backing the Green and Gold.

I came up for the Pittsburgh Steelers game for my first time at Lambeau Field. The first sight of the field was a beautiful one. You can just hear the angels singing. I cried. When you are so passionate about the team, you'l..

New Vikings Quarterback Still Poses Threat To Packers

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Thu, 17 Nov 2005 18:12:06 CST
You would think the Green Bay Packers would relish facing the Minnesota Vikings without their three-time Pro Bowl quarterback Daunte Culpepper.

But the Packers know the Vikings new starter, 14-year veteran Brad Johnson, who earned the role after Culpepper tore three knee ligaments on Oct. 30, presents his own challenges.

"They're a different team. You've got to prepare for a different guy. So it somewhat gives them the edge," cornerback Al Harris said. "We know what we're getting with Daunte. With Brad we haven't faced him a lot."

From 1992 to 1999 Johnson went through his first stint with the Vikings, playing the Packers twice-a-year. But none of the current Packers defensive players were with the team during that era.

But as they watch tape, the Packers are quickly learning some of the attributes Johnson brings to the table. He has great leadership skills honed while guiding the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the XXXVII Super Bowl title. Johnson also ha..

Cole Becomes Force Along Defensive Line

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Thu, 17 Nov 2005 18:03:41 CST
Colin Cole spent his first year in the league bouncing around the practice squads of two other teams in the NFC North before finding his niche with the Green Bay Packers.

"Getting that opportunity renewed my love for the game," he said.

Having found a comfort zone with the Packers, Cole has become an impact player after playing in just three games during the 2004 season. Cole plays 25 to 35 snaps a game as part of the coaching staff's interior line rotation. He has 37 tackles and a sack on the season.

"Colin Cole is playing very, very good football," Head Coach Mike Sherman said. "He keeps getting better."

He has improved his performance by playing square and using his hands to disengage from opponents. The 6-2, 325-pounder has reaped the benefits of an intense offseason workout program with defensive tackle Corey Williams to become stronger and improve his footwork.

"It carried on over to the season," Williams said.

The hard work..

Favre No Longer Feels Burden Of Carrying Offense

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 16 Nov 2005 19:11:27 CST
When injuries sidelined much of Brett Favre's offensive arsenal, the franchise quarterback felt he had to carry the franchise on the strength of his right arm.

"I had to go over the top to make some plays that weren't there," Favre said. "In some of these games, I don't think I needed to make as many chances as I did."

With that approach Favre made the spectacular play and accumulated 16 touchdowns, including two fourth quarter touchdowns to nearly bring the Packers back from a 32-12 deficit against the Carolina Panthers. But he also pressed, forcing some throws, which helped him rack up 15 interceptions.

Against the Atlanta Falcons, Favre had a strong and efficient game. He never completed a pass longer than 21 yards but finished 26-of-39 for 252 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

Most importantly he did not need to force the action.

"I don't think there was ever a time where I really needed, in my opinion, to go outside of what we t..

Resurgent Coverage Units Pay Dividends On Special Teams

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 16 Nov 2005 19:01:55 CST
Sprinting down the field on punt and kickoff coverage to create a car crash-level collision requires a special personality.

"You have to have no fear," safety Jeremy Thornburg said. "You have to have a screw loose in your head."

Whether the players occupying the Green Bay Packers' coverage units are sound in mind or not, they have performed effectively.

"We're getting as good as we've been here in our coverage units. I was so proud of our kickoff cover unit the other day," Head Coach Mike Sherman said. "That was a major component in order for us to win."

The Packers held Atlanta Falcons return specialist Allen Rossum, a 2005 Pro Bowl return specialist and a former Packer, to five returns at or inside his own 20-yard line.

"That was probably our best day in my nine years," kicker Ryan Longwell said. "It was a pretty dominant performance."

The special teams needs to come up with a similar effort on Monday against the Minnesota Viki..

Remmel: Packers vs. Vikings

Lee Remmel, Packers.com — Tue, 15 Nov 2005 15:39:03 CST
For the participants, Monday night's Packers matchup with the Minnesota Vikings in Lambeau Field will be historic, regardless of the outcome.

The Vikings, who made their first regular season visit to Green Bay in 1962 (it was City Stadium then, three years prior to being renamed Lambeau Field), will be paying their 30th visit to Titletown, a milestone in which both teams can take a modicum of pride.

The Purple Gang, it should be noted, also has made 15 other regular season appearances against the Green and Gold in Milwaukee
(between 1961 and 1994, after which the Packers opted for playing all of their home games in Green Bay).

The Vikings made their first Green Bay showing on Sept. 16, 1962, under their second-year head coach, Norm Van Brocklin, previously one of the NFL's premier quarterbacks.

The Packers, en route to the best club record in team history (13-1), won that one, 34-7, controlling the football throughout with a 191-yard
rushin..

Letters To Majik

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Tue, 15 Nov 2005 10:20:22 CST
Majik: Do you think that when Brett Favre retires he'll still be a part of the Packers' organization as a coach or something? - Keoni, Hilo, Hawaii

Keoni, I doubt that he would ever coach. I might be wrong, but I don't think he would want to have to work all those crazy hours that are required of coaches. I understand he is looking forward to living in Mississippi. I'm sure he'll have a lot of opportunities to choose from. He also might want to disappear from the spotlight for a while and recharge his batteries. He certainly deserves to.

Why did they start calling you "Majik?" - Sam, Waterville, Ohio

Sam, I received the nickname "Majik" the year after I graduated Depew High School in Buffalo, N.Y. and attended Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia. At FUMA coaches and teammates kept mispronouncing my last name. They called me "Ma-gic-kow-ski" instead of "Ma-kow-ski" (with the silent "J".) Everyone just started to call me "Magic" from the..

Majik: Just What The 'Doctor' Ordered

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Tue, 15 Nov 2005 10:12:35 CST
A potent offense featuring a solid balance between rushing and passing. A tenacious, pressuring defense. Four clutch field goals and decent kick return coverage on special teams. These winning ingredients were the result of a total team effort and a well-deserved victory by the Green Bay Packers over the Atlanta Falcons.

To top it off the Packers accomplished these things on the road in a loud, hostile dome and against one of the NFL's premier teams. Since I live in the Atlanta area, I had the opportunity to watch this game in the seats with the fans, and it was a real treat. There were plenty of Packer fans all around me in the Georgia Dome, and the way the Packers came out from the start really took the Falcons and their fans by surprise.

The Packers dominated, running the ball down the Falcons' throat, and that was something that the Packers hadn't been able to do this season. You have to give so much credit to the offensive line because they created some majo..

Packers' Defense Comes Together Under Bates

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 18:14:26 CST
After Sunday's 33-25 victory against the Atlanta Falcons, Packers Head Coach Mike Sherman complimented defensive coordinator Jim Bates for his unit's performance.

"It's always good when your head coach praises the way the unit played," Bates said. "That's very gratifying."

Sherman praised Bates' efforts for good reason.

Under Bates' watch the Packers have improved in total defense from 25th overall last year to 10th overall this season and from 25th to 11th against the pass.

Bates, however, does not pride himself on statistics as much as the defense becoming a cohesive unit.

"The biggest thing we've gotten is the players have bought into the scheme," Bates said. "They've practiced extremely hard and studied hard."

The Packers' defenders have taken to the 4-3 alignment where the interior tackles occupy blockers and the linebackers flow from sideline to sideline to make plays. The secondary plays an aggressive bump-and-run style. <..

Notebook: Rookie Phenom Could Have Gained 135 Yards

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 18:03:41 CST
A 25-carry, 103-yard, three-touchdown performance for a running back who has been with the team less than a month is very impressive, but Samkon Gado does need to improve in a few areas.

That should come with experience.

"The guy's not afraid of contact," Sherman said. "He just needs repetitions."

Sherman said Gado could have rushed for 135 yards on the day if he had chosen a different hole on three or four running plays.

"He missed some reads he needs to make," Sherman said.

No NFL running back ever makes the perfect decision on every play, but Gado seemed to favor running to the backside -- likely because he had success there early in the game.

Gado also fumbled twice during the game, but the Packers offense recovered both. During last week's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, running back ReShard Lee coughed up the ball on the Packers' third play. Sherman replaced Lee with Gado for the rest of the game.

Had the Atla..

Live Press Conferences On Packers.com!

Mon, 14 Nov 2005 11:20:18 CST
Click here for live VIDEO!

Keep checking back for archived audio and video of all press conferences and locker room interviews.

***

Packers.com Live Video Schedule:
* all times Central and subject to change

Monday, November 14:
Mike Sherman: approx. 12 noon

Wednesday, November 16:
Mike Sherman: approx. 11:45 a.m.
Brett Favre: approx 3:15 a.m.

Saturday, November 19:
Mike Sherman: approx. 12 noon

Monday, November 21:
Mike Sherman: Post-Game
Brett Favre & Selected Players: Post-Game

***

Tired of waiting for 10 second clips on the late-night news to find out what's going on with the Green a..

Notebook: Harris Thrives As Pass Rusher

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Sun, 13 Nov 2005 01:04:53 CST
Cornerback Al Harris serves a crucial role as the Packers' best shutdown cornerback, but the Packers also utilized him in a different capacity, blitzing him repeatedly on Sunday.

"When it's time to cover, I'm ready to cover," Harris said "When it's time to blitz, I'm ready to blitz."

He harassed Vick all day with one of his most impressive plays coming on an Atlanta Falcons 3rd-and-10 possession at the Packers' 36-yard-line. Harris sacked Vick for a two-yard loss, which pushed the Falcons out of field goal range.

Harris said he blitzed more against the Falcons than he ever has in one game.

"Yeah. Definitely. I'm not really known as blitzer," Harris said.

So does that mean Harris has a new role as pass rusher? Not quite.

"It's cool, but I want to cover," he said. "I want interceptions."

**

Back To His Old Ways
Ryan Longwell rebounded from a week in which he missed a 31-yard field goal by hitting four ..

Packers Ride Gado to 33-25 Win

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Sun, 13 Nov 2005 00:58:58 CST
On Friday Packers running back Samkon Gado said he had never lost a football game on his birthday.

Happy 23rd birthday, Mr. Gado.

The Green Bay Packers defeated the Atlanta Falcons 33-25 on Nov. 13 to keep Gado's undefeated record in tact.

Gado played a major role in the victory rushing 25 times for 103 yards -- the first time a Packers running back topped 100 yards all season.

"His performance was unbelievable," fullback William Henderson said. "He just did a phenomenal job today."

The Packers performed as impressively on run defense as run offense. Although the Falcons gained 133 yards on 29 carries, the Packers prevented the big play from a team who entered the game as the league's No. 1-ranked rushing offense. Their longest run was 15 yards.

"We did a great job of tackling today," Head Coach Mike Sherman said.

The Green Bay run defense held Warrick Dunn to 76 yards and the always elusive Michael Vick to 24 yards on ..

AP Story

Sun, 13 Nov 2005 23:35:37 CST
Dr. Gado, paging Dr. Gado.

You're needed in the Green Bay Packers ' backfield.

Making his first career start on his 23rd birthday, doctor-in-waiting Samkon Gado scored three touchdowns to give the Packers only their second win of the season, a 33-25 upset of the Atlanta Falcons.

"It was surreal," said Gado, who was given the game ball. "I didn't even think it was a reality. But I'm here. I'm just enjoying it as much as possible."

Brett Favre threw for 252 yards and came up with another great escape on a drive that led to Ryan Longwell 's fourth field goal, a 51-yarder with 4:01 remaining that gave Green Bay a nine-point lead.

Gado, who was unemployed less than a month ago, was the fifth player -- and certainly the most improbable -- to start at running back in Green Bay's revolving door backfield after season-ending injuries to Ahman Green and Najeh Davenport.

The Nigerian-born Gado started only two games in college at Divis..

Majik: Falcons, Fast-Track Await Struggling Pack

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Sat, 12 Nov 2005 18:36:06 CST
When you think about the Atlanta Falcons, the first name that usually comes to mind is Michael Vick. But when you're playing the Falcons, especially in the Georgia Dome, you find yourself up against much more than a tremendously athletic quarterback who continues to find ways to win. The Packers are in for a very physical game in a hostile environment. The electricity now with the Falcons is even stronger than it's been in the recent past. Vick's style of play has brought some serious excitement to the Atlanta area, and they essentially sell out every game because of what he brings to the team.

But it doesn't stop with Vick. Offensively, this is one of the top rushing teams in the NFL. It's a triple threat. The Falcons have two fine running backs in Warrick Dunn and T.J. Duckett, a big, powerful back in the mold of Jerome Bettis but faster. Dunn is one of the most complete backs in the league. He runs extremely hard, he's fast and he's physical. He can also catch the ball o..

Notebook: Another Running Back Goes Down

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Fri, 11 Nov 2005 18:28:27 CST
After losing running backs Ahman Green, Najeh Davenport and Tony Fisher to injury, the Packers received another dose of bad luck when Walt Williams suffered a season-ending hamstring strain during Thursday's practice.

The Packers placed Williams on injured reserve on Friday.

The coaching staff hoped that Williams, who they re-signed on Oct. 25 after releasing him at the end of training camp, would serve as the third-down back. Head Coach Mike Sherman said any one of their running backs, including William Henderson, could occupy those duties from now on.

Williams, who felt a pop in his hamstring during Thursday's practice, will undergo an MRI exam on Monday to determine the extent of his injury. The Packers, however, deemed the injury significant enough to have him join Green (quadriceps tendon) and Davenport (ankle) on injured reserve.

Having ended his year on the injured list for the second straight season, the three-year veteran reflected on his ..

Packers Fan Memories

Fri, 11 Nov 2005 13:05:09 CST
Read the 'Packers Fan Memories' archives or Submit your own favorite memory

This Week's Photos

Hey Packers fans, here's your chance to share with other fans from around the world your favorite memories of the Green and Gold!

Each week, Packers.com will post a new feature called 'Packers Fan Memories.'

Your first time at Lambeau Field... The first time you met a Packers legend... Your favorite piece of Packers memorabilia...Your family's pre-game tailgating ritual. You name it. We want to hear about it in 'Fan Memories' as Packers fans tell us about some of their most memorable moments backing the Green and Gold.

I have always been a big fan of the Packers and I had the opportunity to go to Packers training camp in 1995. We stayed around after practice for a while to see if any players would come out. Brett Favre walked out, and my family and ..

Packers Plan To Contain Falcons' Ultimate Weapon

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Thu, 10 Nov 2005 17:53:00 CST
Reporters asked Head Coach Mike Sherman if he would rather see Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick run or pass.

He chose neither.

"I prefer him on the bench," Sherman said. "He can run from anywhere or throw from anywhere. He's a dangerous, dangerous player."

Indeed Vick, one of the game's most talented players, has run for 340 yards and three touchdowns and passed for 951 yards and six touchdowns on the year. But it's his scrambles that provide the weekly highlights on the sports television shows. Last year he led all quarterbacks with 902 rushing yards.

Defending a quarterback with sprinter's speed provides a unique challenge for the Packers as they take on the Falcons this weekend.

"Mike Vick is the most electrifying guy playing in the NFL," defensive lineman Kenny Peterson said. "He's very blessed."

Sometimes opposing players fixate on Vick's speed so much that they try and tackle him differently, abandoning their fundame..

Wells May Supplant Klemm At Guard

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Thu, 10 Nov 2005 17:45:23 CST
Pending an official announcement from the coaching staff, Scott Wells, formerly the backup center, appears positioned to replace starter Adrian Klemm at left guard in an effort to bolster the Packers' running game.

"I was shocked at first but I was excited at the same time," Wells said. "I'm looking forward to some playing time and hopefully contributing."

On Wednesday Head Coach Mike Sherman and offensive line coach Larry Beightol notified Wells that he would begin practicing with the first team at left guard.

Klemm, who said the coaching staff was looking for a spark, took the demotion in stride.

"Sure I'm disappointed. What are you going to do?" Klemm said. "We've only won one game. They just said they wanted to shake up things a little bit and make some changes, and I was the change that they made."

Wells played center in training camp until Aug. 15. The coaching staff then moved him to left guard, where he battled Klemm for the start..

Ron Wolf To Sign Copies Of 'Green, Gold and Proud' At Packers Pro Shop Nov. 20

Thu, 10 Nov 2005 15:39:47 CST
Purchase your copy now!

Meet Green Bay Packers legend Ron Wolf and pick up a great holiday gift for the Packers fan in your life.

Wolf will be signing the Green Bay Packers' new coffee-table book, "Green, Gold and Proud" at the Packers Pro Shop on Sunday, November 20 from 2-4 p.m.

Full of memorable fan photos and stories, "Green, Gold and Proud" is a celebration of Packers fans' longtime loyalty and commitment. The "Legends of Lambeau" DVD, an indepth chronicle of the history of the most storied team in the NFL, is included with every book.

Keep checking back for additional information.

Favre's Career Comes Full Circle

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 09 Nov 2005 18:48:17 CST
No one, perhaps not even Brett Favre himself, knows when he will retire. But as he enters the twilight of his 15-year career, he will face off against the franchise where he started his journey.

"It's funny how things sort themselves out," Favre said. "My career's worked out better, I think, than anyone could have anticipated."

The Atlanta Falcons drafted him with the 33rd overall selection in the 1991 draft. He played one season in Atlanta before former Packers General Manager Ron Wolf traded a first-round draft selection for his rights on Feb. 10, 1992.

Despite coming off a decorated college career at Southern Mississippi where he set school records for passing yards (8,193), passing attempts (1,234) completions (656) and touchdowns (53), Favre struggled during his lone year with the Falcons. He played in two games, completing zero passes in four attempts for two interceptions. Favre admits a lack of dedication to football helped account for his underachi..

Maturing Whitticker Improves As Season Hits Halfway Point

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 09 Nov 2005 18:40:07 CST
During the third game of the preseason, rookie right guard William Whitticker faced off against New England Patriots and three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Richard Seymour on several occasions with ugly results. Seymour clogged up running lanes and penetrated during pass plays.

"He got the best of me. That was a learning experience," said Whitticker, knowing he would fare much better in a rematch. "It would be a different story because I'd be better prepared to go against him."

Now halfway through the first regular season of his professional career, Whitticker has made great strides.

"He's much more improved now than he was in Week 1," center Scott Wells said. "He's developing as an overall player."

That development has become most evident during passing plays. Although Whitticker has allowed quarterback pressures, he has not surrendered a sack all season despite facing some stout defensive lines, including those of the Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay..

Diggs Nears Return After Two Knee Injuries

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 18:01:56 CST
Having missed all but two games of the 2005 regular season with injuries to both knees, linebacker Na'il Diggs cannot wait to return to action.

"I'm hungry, man," he said. "I'm real hungry."

Diggs may be able to alleviate those hunger pains this week and return to action against the Atlanta Falcons.

"I'm hopeful we can push that envelope this week and get him ready to go," Head Coach Mike Sherman said.

Diggs sprained the medial collateral ligament in his left knee during training camp on Aug. 8. when a player rolled up on his leg in a pile. He sprained the MCL in his right knee when he banged it on the ground while trying to make a tackle against the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 3

"My previous one was a lot worse than this one," Diggs said. "A self-inflicting injury is a lot less painful than what happened before."

Suffering a similar, though less serious, injury to his left knee two months earlier helped Diggs rehabilitate the torn ..

Remmel: Packers vs. Falcons

Lee Remmel, Packers.com — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 16:53:19 CST
The Green Bay Packers' association with the Atlanta Falcons, now in its 40th year, has been something of a mixed bag, although the won-lost record would not suggest it.

The Packers own a one-game overall advantage heading into Sunday's encounter with the Falcons in the Georgia Dome, having won 11 of the previous 21 meetings while losing 10.

But the won-lost record is highly deceiving. Particularly with respect to the "anatomy" of the series.

The Packers, benefiting from the fledgling Falcons' initial status as an expansion team, won the first five games in the series by an average of 25 points per game.

As often is the case of rivalries, however, things have changed to a significant degree over time. In the interim, in this instance, the Falcons have won 10 of the last 16 meetings, including three of their five most recent matchups.

From the Packers' point of view, three games stand out in their four-decade relationship with the Falcons, ..

Letters To Majik

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 13:54:37 CST
Why is Walter Williams not running the ball? The guy is awesome. He can contribute a lot to the running game. - John, Boston, Mass.

John, I'm sure Walt will get his chance in the up coming weeks. He will have to split time with Tony Fisher and Samkon Gado, who had a very solid game versus Pittsburgh.

Would the Packers ever consider trading for Terrell Owens? I know he's not the best person in the world, but it sounds like he respects Brett Favre and may be able to get along with everyone in Green Bay. Since nobody wants him and the wide receiver corps is hurting, it doesn't sound like too bad an option when your 1-7. - Craig, Gladstone, Mich.

I certainly hope not. T.O. is the most selfish player that we have probably ever seen. This guy, regardless of how good he is, brings nothing but trouble and problems to every organization that he's been with. I sincerely doubt that the Packers or any team for that matter will ever pay this guy what he ..

Majik: Missed Opportunities Seal Packers' Doom

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 12:56:29 CST
At the expense of repeating myself, this was another one of those games the Green Bay Packers could have and should have won. Yes, the Pittsburgh Steelers are a bona fide playoff contender. But the Steelers limped into Lambeau Field with an injury report that swelled to 16 players, including most notably quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and running back Jerome Bettis. If ever the Steelers were ripe for the picking, Sunday was the time. But the Packers couldn't make it happen and now they find themselves at the bottom of a 1-7 abyss.

Once again, opportunity knocked and the Packers failed to answer. Early in the second quarter after linebacker Robert Thomas made a nice interception of a Charlie Batch pass, the Packers drove all the way down to the Pittsburgh two-yard line. But instead of punching it into the end zone to take the lead, disaster struck. Two straight false start penalties pushed Green Bay back to the 12-yard line. On the next play, Brett Favre was hit on a blitz. F..

Punt, Pass and Kick Participants Compete At Lambeau Field

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 10:35:22 CST
Forty boys and girls participated in the punt, pass, and kick competition at the Don Hutson Center and were introduced during halftime of the Green Bay Packers-Pittsburgh Steelers game on Sunday.

The kids hailed from all over the state of Wisconsin. Competing in age brackets for eight and nine-year olds, 10 and 11-year-olds, 12 and 13-year-olds and 14 and 15-year-olds, they won regional and sectional matches, earning the right to show their skills at Lambeau Field in front of 70, 607 fans.

"The kids got a kick out of it as much the parents did," said Bobbi Jo Eisenreich, community relations assistant for the Green Bay Packers.

Packers wide receiver Chad Lucas provided another highlight for the kids as he spoke in the Don Huston Center to the entire group adorned in Packers jerseys.

The winners and their respective age groups were: Brooke Koeser from New Holstein (eight to nine- year-old girl) David Giroux from Plover (eight to nine-year-old boy), K..

Packers Sort Out Running Back Trio

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Mon, 07 Nov 2005 18:34:20 CST
Injured Packers running back Tony Fisher wants nothing more than to return to the playing field.

"It's extremely frustrating," he said. "I want to be out there playing with the boys."

The Packers, however, may have to rely on Samkon Gado and ReShard Lee in the running game on Sunday while Fisher recovers from a mysterious rib injury.

Fisher said he suffered the injury prior to the Oct. 30 Cincinnati Bengals game, his first start of the season, and hopes to return this weekend. The worst case scenario, however, has him missing six weeks of action.

"I don't imagine his availability will be anytime soon," Head Coach Mike Sherman said.

As a result Sherman tentatively named Gado his starting running back.

"It's Sam Gado if we were playing today," he said.

The rookie Gado rushed the ball 26 times for 62 yards and caught one pass for nine yards against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He received his only previous NFL action the week ..

Defensive Tackles Specialize In Blocking Kicks

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Mon, 07 Nov 2005 18:25:56 CST
Defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins can block kicks but not because of his outstanding vertical leap.

"If jumping ability had something to do with it," said defensive tackle Colin Cole, who lines up next to Jenkins on field goal defense, "we wouldn't have any blocks. That's got nothing to do with it."

Jenkins, though, has a knack for blocking kicks. On Sunday the 6-3, 290-pounder deflected a 51-yard field goal attempt by Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Jeff Reed at the start of the fourth quarter. It marked the third time he got his hands on a kick this year, including two blocked extra points attempts earlier this season.

Jenkins has a skill at heading up field, turning his hips and working to raise his hands up. The second year defensive tackle, however, modestly credits the players lining up beside him for his own success.

"It's just coming off hard and getting a great push by my teammates," Jenkins said. "I need more teamwork to help get through."
..

Notebook: Thomas Disrupts Steelers' Offense

Nathan Hager, Packers.com — Sun, 06 Nov 2005 23:40:04 CST
Thomas Disrupts Steelers Offense
Despite the 20-10 loss to the Steelers, the Packers continued to show promise on defense. One particular player that stood out and earned the Packers their only takeaway for the game was linebacker Robert Thomas.

Thomas, who was acquired in a trade at the end of the preseason, has been steady throughout the season and Sunday he finished with five tackles, one pass defensed and an interception, which was his first as a Packer.

The interception came off of Charlie Batch on the first play of the second quarter and Thomas returned it for 24 yards. It was a play in which the fourth-year pro read his assignment correctly, and in turn, put him in the right place at the right time.

"It was a seam route I believe," Thomas recalled. "I knew that one of the receivers had an inside break. I set the quarterback up and he took that bait.

Head Coach Mike Sherman took notice of Thomas' performance.

"He ce..

20-10 Loss Represents Ups And Downs For Longwell

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Sun, 06 Nov 2005 23:28:10 CST
Sunday's game featured a personal highlight and lowlight for kicker Ryan Longwell.

With 1:04 left in the first quarter, Longwell nailed a 40-yard field goal, making him the first player in Packers history to score 1,000 points. Already Green Bay's all-time leading scorer, he entered the game with 998 points.

"We had a great first field goal," Longwell said.

But his second field goal attempt was less memorable. With 31 seconds left in the first half and a chance to cut the Pittsburgh Steelers' lead to 13-6, Longwell's kick was wide right from 31 yards.

"We should have made the kick." Longwell said. "We're not as consistent as we have been over the years."

Longwell entered the game as the fourth-most accurate field goal specialist in NFL history at 82.4 percent. This year, however, he has made seven of 11 field goal attempts. Longwell is growing accustomed to working with a new holder, punter B.J. Sander, and he has said that learning proces..

Forced Fumble Leads To Loss Against Steelers

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Sun, 06 Nov 2005 23:21:19 CST
The Green Bay Packers' 20-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers changed on one play.

Down 6 to 3, the Packers had the ball at the Pittsburgh 12-yard-line when rookie cornerback Bryant McFadden sacked Brett Favre to force a fumble, and safety Troy Polamalu returned it 77 yards for a touchdown.

"It was a huge turning point in the game," Favre said. "It's hard to overcome that."

The Packers, who outgained the Steelers by 55 yards, left more points on the board as well. With 31 seconds left in the first half and a chance to cut the lead to 13-6, Ryan Longwell missed a 31-yard field goal.

"We should have made the kick," Longwell said.

The Packers also suffered their share of penalties, committing eight for 74 yards on the day, including two illegal shifts and back-to-back false starts by Adrian Klemm and Bubba Franks on the two plays immediately preceding Polamalu's fumble return.

Those gaffes overshadowed a solid game by the Packers defe..

Gado Shines On Short Notice

Nathan Hager, Packers.com — Sun, 06 Nov 2005 23:14:13 CST
Green Bay Packers fans are often recognized as some of the most knowledgeable and loyal fans in all of sports.

However, you'd probably have to look far and wide to find the die-hards who knew anything about Samkon Gado before Sunday's game versus the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Judging by his performance against one of the top ranked defenses in the NFL, it appears as if Gado is on his way to making himself known to the Packer allegiance as well as opposing defenses.

Gado, who entered the week behind Tony Fisher and Reshard Lee on the depth chart at running back, got his chance when Fisher had to sit out the game with a rib injury and Lee lost an early fumble.

After receiving one carry last week at Cincinnati, Gado was anything but eased into action against the Steelers. The Nigerian-born running back, who played his college ball at Liberty, finished the day with 62 yards and a touchdown. At first glance, those numbers may not knock your socks off, ..

Live Press Conferences On Packers.com!

Sun, 06 Nov 2005 19:36:39 CST
Click here for live VIDEO!

Keep checking back for archived audio and video of all press conferences and locker room interviews.

***

Packers.com Live Video Schedule:
* all times Central and subject to change

Monday, November 7:
Mike Sherman: approx. 12 noon

Wednesday, November 9:
Mike Sherman: approx. 11:45 a.m.
Brett Favre: approx. 3:30 p.m.

Friday, November 11:
Mike Sherman: approx. 12 noon

***

Tired of waiting for 10 second clips on the late-night news to find out what's going on with the Green and Gold?

Be sure to join Packers.com this season as we provide streaming video coverage of the Packers' wee..

AP Story: Packers Fall To Steelers 20-10 At Lambeau Field

Sun, 06 Nov 2005 19:21:04 CST
Troy Polamalu called himself an accidental hero.

His 77-yard touchdown return of Brett Favre's fumble set the stage for Pittsburgh's 20-10 win over the Green Bay Packers, when both teams turned to their stingy defenses to bail out their injury-ravaged offenses.

"I thought our defense played outstanding," Favre said. "We have to help them out."

Green Bay held the Steelers without a single third-down conversion, allowed just two field goals and a 20-yard TD drive.

Not bad, but not as good as Pittsburgh.
The Steelers forced three turnovers that they turned into 17 points, including Polamalu's score on a play in which Favre was kicking himself for not just going to his hot read right away and settling for a field goal instead of trying to buy enough time for Walt Williams to get open for a touchdown.
Polamalu was kicking himself, too -- but only for a split second.

"I missed the sack, which is pretty disappointing," Polamalu sai..

Packers-Steelers Press Box Notes

Sun, 06 Nov 2005 13:28:55 CST
TODAY: Two of the league's cornerstone franchises, with arguably the NFL's richest histories and most passionate fans, clash in the anchor game of CBS' national doubleheader...The Steelers return to Lambeau Field for the first time in a decade. It's also the teams' first meeting in seven years...Dusting off the bleachers, the Packers host a game at Lambeau Field for the first time in 28 days; it's the only Green Bay home game over a 42-day stretch.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR TODAY -

NICK BARNETT:
-Needs eight tackles for 400 career. Barnett (96 in 2005) is on pace to post 219 this year. The most tackles ever recorded (since 1975) by a Packers player is 180 by Mike Douglass in 1981.

ANTONIO CHATMAN:
-Needs two punt returns to surpass No. 5 Johnnie Gray (85) on the Packers' all-time list, Chatman enters with 84.

DONALD DRIVER:
-With a catch, can extend his streak of games with a reception to 56. The stretch is th..

Injured Fisher Hopes To Play On Sunday

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Fri, 04 Nov 2005 17:41:15 CST
Having already lost their top two running backs, Ahman Green (quadriceps tendon) and Najeh Davenport (ankle) for the season, the Green Bay Packers have prepared in case running back Tony Fisher cannot play on Sunday.

"This is the NFL. That's what happens. It's a contact sport," running back ReShard Lee said. "That's why you always have to have good backups."

Because of a rib contusion near the top of his back, running back Tony Fisher missed practice on Friday, and the Packers have listed him as questionable for Sunday's game.

Fisher does not know how he suffered the injury or its extent. The X-rays showed nothing wrong, and he has not received the results from his MRI exam. Fisher remains baffled.

"I have no answers," he said. "I don't know what's going on just yet. I'm just gonna wait and see what the doc says. Hopefully it's not really too serious."

As he sat at his locker on Friday, Fisher said he felt better because of daily deep-tis..

Barnett, Linebacking Corps Begin To Thrive

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Fri, 04 Nov 2005 17:33:08 CST
When you mention the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Packers' opponent on Sunday, you think of a tradition of strong linebackers from Jack Lambert to Kevin Greene to Greg Lloyd to James Farrior and Joey Porter.

The Packers' linebacking unit may not list the same high-profile names but it has more than held their own this year, particularly last week when they played a major role in limiting the high-powered Cincinnati Bengals offense to 222 passing yards, 95 receiving yards and 21 points.

"This past weekend was probably one of their better games as a group," Head Coach Mike Sherman said. "Nick [Barnett] had 17, 18 hits. Paris Lenon did some nice things. Robert Thomas had a couple of plays there."

Having the linebackers jell so quickly is no small feat. Not only have they had to learn a new defensive scheme under defensive coordinator Jim Bates, but the group has featured an influx of new players and injuries to a six-year veteran.

"There has been a lot of..

Packers Fan Memories

Fri, 04 Nov 2005 16:40:03 CST
Read the 'Packers Fan Memories' archives or Submit your own favorite memory

This Week's Photos

Hey Packers fans, here's your chance to share with other fans from around the world your favorite memories of the Green and Gold!

Each week, Packers.com will post a new feature called 'Packers Fan Memories.'

Your first time at Lambeau Field... The first time you met a Packers legend... Your favorite piece of Packers memorabilia...Your family's pre-game tailgating ritual. You name it. We want to hear about it in 'Fan Memories' as Packers fans tell us about some of their most memorable moments backing the Green and Gold.

I will remember Aug. 26th forever! My Pop Warner football team was selected to play during halftime of the Packers-Patriots game. It was a dream come true to walk through the tunnel and onto Lambeau Field as 69,500 people watched us p..

Confident First-Year Cornerback Is Ready To Step Up

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Thu, 03 Nov 2005 18:12:49 CST
Cornerback Mike Hawkins' cell phone displayed the image of his new baby boy, and he asked all passers-by to check it out.

Hawkins went on to boast not only about Michael Jr., born on Saturday, but also his skills as an NFL corner.

A first year player, he already possesses the necessary confidence to take on Detroit Lions wide receiver Roy Williams, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Terrell Owens and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward -- to name a few exemplary receivers looming on the Green Bay Packers' schedule.

"You've got to be sort of cocky out there. You've also got to have a short memory, too," safety Mark Roman said. "We're at a position where when you have a good game, it's really not glorified too much. If you have a bad game, everybody in the nation is going to know about it."

Having waived nickel cornerback Joey Thomas on Wednesday, the Packers are counting on Hawkins to use last week's game as a launching pad. He played 25 sna..

Packers Set To Face Steelers' Deep Crop Of Running Backs

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Thu, 03 Nov 2005 17:10:00 CST
When asked about the season-ending injury to Minnesota Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper, 190-pound cornerback Ahmad Carroll insisted his attention was focused on the bruising running back he will face this week.

And for good reason.

"I'm thinking about Jerome Bettis," he said. "If he gets loose, I don't want to have be the one to hit him, but I'm going to have to."

The 255-pound Bettis, one of six players in the history of the NFL to surpass 13,000 yards, makes up one part of the Pittsburgh Steelers' power running game, ranked fifth in the league. The Steelers also have Willie Parker, who effectively uses his speed to bounce outside on power plays.

"[It's] the two best tandem of backs we've faced, I believe, since we've been here," Packers Head Coach Mike Sherman said. "It's a heck of a group."

The effectiveness of the Pittsburgh running game could very well decide the outcome of Sunday's game. Because Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlis..

Packers Part Ways With Once-Promising Cornerback

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 02 Nov 2005 18:34:23 CST
Linebacker Nick Barnett usually chatted up cornerback Joey Thomas before practice, but when Barnett did not need see him on Wednesday afternoon he assumed Thomas had suffered an injury.

Instead Thomas' absence was because the Packers waived the second-year cornerback on Wednesday afternoon.

"It's kind of a shock," Barnett said.

The Packers had high hopes for Thomas, a 2004 third-round draft pick. He entered training camp as the starting left cornerback, but injuries to his calf and hip sidelined him for the majority of the summer.

He earned the start against the Cleveland Browns Sept. 18 but made a crucial gaffe during the game. Thomas jumped outside, and Browns rookie wide receiver Braylon Edwards beat him inside on a slant for an 80-yard touchdown.

Last week he made another egregious error. On a 3rd down-and-five in the second quarter, the Packers had stopped the Cincinnati Bengals to force a punt, but the officials then called Thomas f..

Packers Address Problems With QB-Center Exchange

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Wed, 02 Nov 2005 18:26:00 CST
After botching shotgun snaps in consecutive games, center Scott Wells and the rest of the offensive line remain confident they have corrected the problems.

"It's frustrating to have two games in a row with something like that," Wells said, "but I know it's not (a lack of) ability. It was just a communication breakdown and it's something that can be fixed."

On Monday the Packers began the process of fixing their snapping problems out of the shotgun formation. 10-year veteran center Mike Flanagan explained to backup centers Wells and Chris White how to operate in loud stadiums on the road. From now on, Brett Favre will hike the ball on a verbal snap count. If it becomes too difficult to hear in the stadium, the entire offensive line and quarterback will come up with an agreed-upon system where all parties know what the other is doing.

"It's been addressed," Wells said.

Against the Minnesota Vikings, Wells fired an errant snap because of the crowd noi..

Remmel: Packers vs Steelers

Lee Remmel, Packers.com — Wed, 02 Nov 2005 09:49:04 CST
It has been a decade since the Packers last engaged the Pittsburgh Steelers on Green Bay soil in a regular season matchup-a veritable eternity in professional sports.

But next Sunday's Lambeau Field matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers renews fond and vivid memories of the Pennsylvanians' most recent visit, in part because it was Christmas Eve (of 1995) and in part because of what transpired on that cloudy afternoon, when the wind chill was a relatively tolerable 9 degrees at kickoff, balmy weaher for a late December day in Titletown.

With a generous "contribution" from their guests on that occasion, the Packers managed to emerge with their most meaningful victory in the history of the series, a rivalry launched in 1933 when the National Football League was in only its 14th season.

The Packers, having just registered a 47-yard Chris Jacke field goal, were nurturing a tenuous lead in the fourth quarter-and essentially hanging on as Bill Cowher's surging Ste..

Recently-Acquired Running Back Bursts On Scene

Jeff Fedotin, Packers.com — Tue, 01 Nov 2005 17:43:47 CST
Packers running back Samkon Gado was hanging out in his Ashwaubenon, Wis. apartment at noon on Saturday -- 45 minutes before the team charter would depart for Cincinnati -- when Packers Director of Pro Personnel Reggie McKenzie called the practice squader and told him they activated him to the 53-man roster.

"I had to get ready quick," Gado said.

Gado has risen up the depth chart with similar speed. With running backs Ahman Green (quadriceps tendon) and Najeh Davenport (ankle) out for the season, the Packers signed Gado, who spent the first month of the season on the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad, to their practice squad on Oct 17. On Sunday he received his first NFL action.

Gado earned the game action through his play during practice. He wowed the coaches and players as he ran repetitions for the scout team, simulating the running backs for the opposing teams. The 5-10, 226 pound running back showed a nice burst and soft hands to go along with a build..

Majik: Turnovers Ruin Packers' Chances To Beat Bengals

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Tue, 01 Nov 2005 11:12:21 CST
The misery index is running pretty high in Green Bay right now and, unfortunately there's no end in sight. Once again the Packers played with plenty of heart and determination and they weren't able to take advantage of the opportunities they had to win.

After Sunday's defeat at the hands of the Cincinnati Bengals, the Packers find themselves in a huge hole at 1-6. I can't give the team any stars for a great effort because a loss is a loss. But for as many injuries as the Packers have, and considering the fact that they had five turnovers against a strong team like the Bengals, I admired the Packers' ability to have a glimmer of hope at the very end. Cincinnati has a lot of offensive firepower and a strong, opportunistic defense. With five turnovers, this game shouldn't have been this close. The Packers came up short, but it certainly wasn't for a lack of effort. Frankly, I was surprised the Bengals were unable to capitalize on all of the turnovers. When you have a team as ..

Letters To Majik

Don Majkowski, Special To Packers.com — Tue, 01 Nov 2005 13:39:00 CST
With the Packers now very thin at running back and wide receiver because of the injuries to Ahman Green and Robert Ferguson, what are the chances of two former Packers, Dorsey Levens and Antonio Freeman being brought back? - Julian, San Antonio, Texas

Julian, I think the chances of bringing back either one of those players is slim and none.
Neither one of those guys were in a training camp this year, and they are both getting up there in age. Realistically, I don't know if either player would still be able to contribute at this point of their careers.

Hey Don, I am very impressed how Brett Favre always spreads the ball out. From a quarterback's standpoint, do you try to do that or does it just happen that way because of the play calling? Thanks Majik! - Jerry, Stevens Point, Wis.

Jerry, offenses in the NFL will often call plays to get different receivers involved in the game plan. Most of the time the way a defense plays coverage will de..