Packers.com

Offense Needs Run Game To Find Traction

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:01:51 CST

The Green Bay Packers' on-again, off-again running game appears to be off again, and the most distressing part about it is the struggles in the ground game trickled down to the rest of the offense in last Sunday's loss at Tampa Bay.

The Packers posted just 28 yards rushing against the Buccaneers, the lowest in Mike McCarthy's 36 regular-season games as head coach. The total matched the output in the NFC Championship loss last January to the New York Giants, but with four more attempts (18 at Tampa, 14 vs. NYG).

The struggles have many wondering whether the Packers are back to where they were in the early going last year, when they ranked last in the league in rushing through the season's first 10 weeks.

The situation isn't that dire - the Packers rank nine spots higher than last year at this time, and have a per-carry average of 3.9 yards versus the 2.7 mark through four games in 2007, mostly thanks to productive rushing games the first two weeks (139 yards..

Notebook: Rodgers Rehabbing, Intends To Play

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:25:42 CST

A scan has revealed there's no major structural damage to Aaron Rodgers' right shoulder, and Head Coach Mike McCarthy said his quarterback has every intention of playing this week against Atlanta.

Rodgers injured his shoulder on a scramble in the third quarter on Sunday in Tampa. He went back in after the injury to throw a touchdown pass to Greg Jennings, then sat out a series, and then returned one more time before exiting the game for good.

Rodgers thought after the game he might have dislocated or separated the shoulder, and on Monday McCarthy termed the injury a shoulder sprain. It sounds like Rodgers will test the shoulder in practice on Wednesday, the first practice in preparation for the Atlanta game, and proceed from there.

"They're going to obviously rehab him today and tomorrow and we'll probably have a better idea Wednesday," McCarthy said. "Speaking with Aaron this morning, he has every intention on playing, but I think Wednesday's practice will..

Game Notes: Woodson Scores Again

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 12:52:32 CST

TAMPA - Charles Woodson's broken toe isn't stopping him from climbing the ladder in the Green Bay record books.

His 62-yard interception return for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter on Sunday against Tampa Bay was his fifth defensive touchdown as a member of the Packers in just 2 1/4 seasons. That ties him with Bobby Dillon and Doug Hart for third in team history, behind the seven defensive TDs scored by Herb Adderley and Darren Sharper.

Four of Woodson's five defensive TDs have been on interception returns, tying him for fourth on the team's all-time list with Johnny (Blood) McNally in that category.

The big play Sunday came with Tampa Bay facing a third-and-3 from the Green Bay 41-yard line. Quarterback Brian Griese tried to throw a short dump-off pass to running back Warrick Dunn to pick up the first down, but Woodson read Griese all the way, stepped in front of Dunn, and ran untouched to paydirt.

"We were in zone," Woodson explained of th..

Rodgers Injures Shoulder, Tries To Return

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 12:52:10 CST

TAMPA - How badly quarterback Aaron Rodgers has injured his shoulder will probably be known on Monday, but it was certainly a good sign he was able to return to Sunday's game after missing one series.

Rodgers hurt his throwing shoulder on a third-quarter scramble, at the end of which he reached the ball out while being tackled, to try to get the first down. The impact of the ball slamming the ground as Rodgers went down made the quarterback think he may have dislocated the shoulder.

But initially there wasn't much time to figure it out. Two plays into Tampa Bay's next series, with Rodgers getting looked at for the first time, the Packers got an interception. Rodgers went right back out and promptly threw a 48-yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings to pull the Packers within 20-14.

Rodgers was clearly in pain, though, as he came off the field after that throw. He tried to get his arm loose on the bench, but said throwing caused "intense pain," and he came out ..

Game Review: Too Much To Overcome In Tampa

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 12:51:54 CST

TAMPA - The Green Bay Packers showed in their first two games this season that they're good enough to overcome some mistakes and still pull out big victories.

But the number of miscues on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was simply too many, and they added up to a frustrating 30-21 defeat in front of 64,122 at Raymond James Stadium. The Packers, who also must deal now with a shoulder injury to starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers (evaluation and status update coming Monday), are 2-2 at the season's quarter pole after a 2-0 start.

The mistakes fell into every category. There were offensive penalties that set up difficult down-and-distance situations, defensive penalties on third downs to keep Buccaneer drives alive, a lack of execution in the running game, shoddy pass protection at critical times, and poor punts that allowed for productive returns.

They all contributed to several opportunities for Tampa Bay, most notably four turnovers that the 3-1 Bucc..

AP Game Summary: Bucs Top Packers 30-21

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 10:03:20 CST

Derrick Brooks hasn't been himself this season. A sore hamstring has seen to that, feeding the perception that the 10-time Pro Bowl linebacker and Tampa Bay's aging defense are slowing down.

Aaron Rodgers will tell you otherwise.

Brooks had one of three interceptions off Green Bay's young quarterback and also forced a fumble that Jermaine Phillips returned 38 yards for a touchdown Sunday, helping the Bucs (3-1) beat the Packers 30-21.

"Unbelieveable," Bucs coach Jon Gruden said. "We know he's been nursing and working through an injury. What he played like today was the Derrick Brooks that everybody recognizes. He made plays sideline to sideline. There's a lot of strength left in Derrick Brooks and we need him in the final 12 weeks."

Rogers threw for two touchdowns to Greg Jennings, who had six receptions for 109 yards, but was sacked three times and left the game for one series with a shoulder injury midway through the fourth quarter.

The ..

Notebook: Martin Ready To Go

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 09:40:42 CST

The Packers have yet to have all five wide receivers active for a game this season, and that will likely continue Sunday at Tampa Bay with James Jones doubtful with a knee injury. But Jones' absence should be alleviated by the return of wide receiver Ruvell Martin, who missed the last two games with a finger injury.

Martin was not on the injury report for the first time this season and participated fully in all three practices this week. After wearing a club-like cast to protect the finger the past few weeks, Martin was down to just a smaller splint during Friday's practice.

"He caught the ball well today," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "I think he's relieved just to have the club off his hand. They went with some form of brace and the one they used today, it's actually going to be a lot smaller during the game."

Martin admitted it was a strange feeling to finally play without the club on his hand, but said he isn't concerned about the adjustment to live a..

Griese Has Been Tough On Green Bay

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 09:41:56 CST

Over the years, the Green Bay Packers have faced their share of quarterbacks who would qualify as a nemesis to the club.

Back in the 1970s, there was Fran Tarkenton of Minnesota, who helped orchestrate a seven-game winning streak for the Vikings against the Packers from 1975-78. Of course in the 1990s, it was Troy Aikman of Dallas, who led the Cowboys to most of their eight straight wins over Green Bay from 1991-96, including three straight postseason triumphs. There was even Dan Marino of Miami, a rare AFC opponent, who won five straight games against the Packers from 1985-94 before the Packers finally beat him in 1997.

And now there's Brian Griese.

Say what?

No, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' quarterback, a journeyman of sorts throughout his 11 seasons in the NFL, does not have the Hall of Fame credentials of any of those aforementioned signal callers.

But strangely enough, Griese is unbeaten as a starter against Green Bay, having defeated th..

Packers Fan Memories

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:23:36 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 your favorite memories of the Green and Gold with other fans from around the world! This week's edition includes stories from New Jersey, a surprise trip home for a Wisconsin-born fan, the beginning of the "Packer fairy" tradition, and a great time at the season opener.

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

Packers Look To Show Bounce-Back Ability

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:36:01 CST

Possessing the second-best record in the NFL over the past 23 regular-season games, the Packers have not been forced to respond to a loss very often in recent memory, but the '08 team will get a chance to do just that at Tampa Bay this Sunday.

Including wins in the final four games of 2006, Head Coach Mike McCarthy's first season at the helm, and the 13-3 mark in '07, the Packers' 19-4 record since Dec. 10, 2006, is tops in the NFC and trails only the New England Patriots' 21-2 mark.

During that 23-game span the Packers have not lost back-to-back games either, a mark that is also second in the league to only New England's 26-game string.

That streak will be on the line as the Packers head down to Tampa Bay coming off their first loss of the season, a 27-16 defeat to the Dallas Cowboys. Green Bay allowed 217 yards on the ground and was outgained 453 to 334 by the Cowboys in total yardage.

"You need to respond," quarterback Aaron Rodgers said. "It's..

Notebook: Grant Getting Over The Hump

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:34:44 CST

It appears running back Ryan Grant may finally be putting his hamstring injury behind him.

Grant, who is not on the injury report this week for the first time all season, was a full participant in practice for the second straight day Thursday, the first time he has handled full duty back-to-back days in 2008. Having injured his hamstring shortly after signing a long-term contract one week into training camp, Grant has been either out, limited in his practice work, and/or not going full speed with the ball in his hand during games.

"This is the best I've felt, definitely," Grant said after a full-pads practice on Thursday. "I told some of the guys I don't feel it, and I don't think about it at practice. I actually came out of practice today saying there were some runs where I tried to get a little more."

That's a change from the norm, which has been Grant holding back a bit, even as he's carried the ball 40 times in the first three games. He has 166 yards th..

Secondary Ready To Adjust

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 10:01:44 CST

To put it mildly, the Green Bay Packers' defensive backfield is in a state of flux right now, but Head Coach Mike McCarthy believes the unit has the depth to make the necessary adjustments, both at cornerback and safety.

For starters, Tramon Williams will be stepping in at cornerback in place of Al Harris. Fortunately, the news Wednesday wasn't all doom and gloom for Harris, who sustained a serious injury to his spleen in Sunday night's game against the Cowboys.

Harris and the medical staff are still in the process of getting additional opinions on his spleen injury, and McCarthy said once all the information is gathered, a timetable will be set for his treatment and recovery. This week Harris can do nothing but rest, but it's possible surgery won't be necessary. And while noting the seriousness of an internal injury, McCarthy didn't rule out the chance that Harris could still return to the field in 2008.

"If Al was standing here, he'd tell you he wants to ..

Notebook: Wells Returns To Starting Lineup

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 09:57:19 CST

For the first time this season, the Packers' starting offensive line Sunday at Tampa Bay will look the way it did on the season-opening depth chart with center Scott Wells returning and Jason Spitz moving back to right guard.

Wells, who has yet to play this season because of a pinched nerve in his back, took the snaps with the No. 1 line in the open portion of Wednesday's practice and is scheduled to make his '08 debut Sunday against the Buccaneers. He was not listed on Wednesday's injury report for the first time this season.

"He will start at center and Jason Spitz will go at right guard," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "That's the lineup we'll go with.

"He had a full week of practice last week and had a good day today. He looks good."

Wells was active for the first time this season Sunday vs. Dallas but did not play as Spitz started at center with Tony Moll at right guard for the third straight game.

"I think Jason and Tony did a great ..

Field Position Works Against Packers In Defeat

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:09:04 CST

Dating back to the start of last season, more often than not the Green Bay Packers have won the battle of "hidden yardage" that's a part of each and every game on special teams.

The team's rise from last in the annual Dallas Morning News special teams rankings in 2006 to seventh last year is proof of that, as is Will Blackmon's key punt return for a touchdown in the season opener this year.

But last Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys, the hidden yardage went the other way for the Packers, and it proved costly in the 27-16 defeat.

From penalties on special teams plays, to a couple of low punts, to a struggle to find running room on returns, the Packers were somewhere around "minus-174" in field-position differential against Dallas, according to Head Coach Mike McCarthy in his Monday press conference.

McCarthy admitted that a chunk of that, "probably 50-60 yards," came when the Packers failed to legally recover a late onside kick and gave..

Notebook: Improvement Needed This Week

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 12:02:09 CST

Wins and losses are always the bottom line, but if there's one thing a head coach wants to see regardless of the final score, particularly early in a long season, it's improvement on a week-to-week basis.

But the Packers did not improve from their second game to their third, Head Coach Mike McCarthy said on Monday, and fundamentals were the primary culprit.

"The thing that was disappointing from a coaching standpoint, and we have to take accountability for it, was we just weren't as detailed and as clean in some areas as we needed to be," McCarthy said of the 27-16 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. "I thought our football team played with tremendous energy. There was a lot of positive plays on the field, but the mistakes that were made, they definitely capitalized on them."

One key mistake McCarthy kept referring to was a defensive misalignment that led to Felix Jones' 60-yard touchdown run in the second quarter that put Dallas ahead for good. Another was missed ..

Notebook: Chillar Gets First Start

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 12:04:48 CST

To this point linebacker Brandon Chillar's opportunities have been limited to special teams, but for a player who is known for his abilities in pass coverage, a Dallas offense featuring a Pro Bowl tight end was a good time for him to get on the field.

Chillar, who was the Packers' lone free agent acquisition this offseason after playing for St. Louis the past four seasons, got the starting nod at the 'Sam' linebacker position after playing primarily on special teams the first two games. He entered the game with a team-leading five tackles on special teams.

Chillar entered training camp in competition with incumbent Brady Poppinga for the starting job, and said he thought the start Sunday night was based more on the matchup with Cowboys' talented tight end Jason Witten.

"I think it was just a one-game thing and we'll see where it goes from here," Chillar said. "Brady's a good player and he plays very well against the run. I think we just had a good matchup w..

Game Review: Packers Fall To 2-1

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 12:02:52 CST

The Cowboys are known for their plethora of offensive weapons, but it was little-known wide receiver Miles Austin who made two of the biggest plays in the game as the Cowboys pulled away in the second half to beat the Packers 27-16 Sunday night at Lambeau Field.

Austin, a third-year player out of Monmouth University who entered the game with seven career receptions, caught a 63-yard pass to set up a 2-yard touchdown run by Marion Barber late in the third quarter and added a 52-yard catch for a touchdown to put the Packers away in the fourth quarter.

Other than the two long receptions by Austin, the Cowboys did most of their damage on the ground as they rushed for 217 yards on 35 carries, which included a career-high 142 from Barber. It was the first time the Packers allowed 200-plus yards rushing since the Seahawks posted 235 yards on 48 carries at Seattle (Nov. 27, 2006).

"Any time someone runs for over 200 yards, that's significant," Head Coach Mike McCar..

Dallas Ground Game Punishes Packers

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 12:03:27 CST

Receiver Terrell Owens was rendered a non-factor with just two catches for 17 yards. Tight end Jason Witten had a productive seven catches for 67 yards, but he did not find the end zone and it was not a game-breaking performance by any stretch.

But that's the thing about the Dallas Cowboys. A defense can do a respectable job against some of their headliners, but there's always another one coming at you. Or two.

On Sunday night, the big names with the big games were running backs Marion Barber and Felix Jones. They combined for 218 rushing yards on 34 carries, simply wearing down Green Bay's defense in a 27-16 Dallas victory.

"Really what we're most disappointed with was the run game," defensive end Aaron Kampman said. "We gave up 200 yards, and that's very uncharacteristic of us. That really set them up."

The productive run game put the Cowboys in several short-yardage situations, allowing them to "really open the playbook," according to Kampman. T..

Explosive Plays Tip The Balance

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 12:03:07 CST

In his final press conference Friday before this week's game, Head Coach Mike McCarthy noted that the Packers-Cowboys showdown likely would come down to big plays.

Three big plays that Dallas made turned out to be the difference.
Rookie Felix Jones ran 60 yards for a touchdown in the first half, and receiver Miles Austin had two huge gains, a 63-yard catch-and-run to set up a score and a 52-yard TD catch midway through the fourth quarter. Those were the key blows in this Sunday night showdown of heavyweights that went the Cowboys' way, 27-16.

"We went out there, and we held up for a while," cornerback Tramon Williams said. "But they came up with big plays, and that was the game right there."

The Packers' defense was battling injuries much of the night, with players coming in and out of the lineup, sometimes for short stretches and other times for longer periods.

Green Bay got caught at perhaps the worst time on two of the big plays.

Wi..

AP Game Summary: Cowboys Top Packers 27-16

Sun, 21 Sep 2008 22:17:47 CST

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- On an uncharacteristically quiet night for Terrell Owens, the Dallas Cowboys leaned on their defense and running game -- then unleashed little-known wide receiver Miles Austin to put away a 27-16 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night.

Marion Barber ran for a career-high 142 yards and a touchdown, and rookie Felix Jones added a 60-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. Austin, a backup who plays mostly on special teams, sealed the win with a 52-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter.

"Just taking advantage of the double-teams on T.O. and [Jason] Witten," Austin said. "It's an advantage to me to have them on the team because they're going to take a lot of the pressure off me. I'm just going in there and trying to make plays when I can, and I'm fortunate enough that the coaches have trust in me, and the quarterback trusts me to give me the ball."

Wisconsin native Tony Romo was 17-of-30 for 260 yards and Owens wa..

Packers Trail 13-6 At Halftime To Cowboys

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 20:20:50 CST

Dallas posted 149 yards on the ground, 80 of which came from Marion Barber, as they lead the Packers 13-6 at halftime at Lambeau Field.

Cowboys rookie running back Felix Jones scored the only touchdown of the first half on a 60-yard run down the left sideline to give Dallas a 10-6 lead midway through the second quarter.

Running back Ryan Grant fumbled on the second play of the game, and Cowboys cornerback Adam Jones returned the fumble 21 yards down to Green Bay's 14. The Packers were able to hold Dallas to a 25-yard field goal from Nick Folk as they took a 3-0 lead.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers connected with wide receiver Greg Jennings on a quick slant on the first play of the Packers' next possession, and Jennings put a nifty move on cornerback Anthony Henry and took it down the left sideline for 26 yards. Rodgers was sacked on third down deep in Dallas territory and the Packers settled for a 36-yard Mason Crosby field goal to even the score at 3-3.

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Key Matchups To Watch On Sunday

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:20:52 CST

As with any football game involving two playoff-caliber teams, Sunday night's contest between the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers isn't going to come down to just one or two key areas.

There are several matchups that can and will tip the balance one way or the other, and they all bear watching as the NFL's marquee showdown of Week 3 - the only game involving a pair of 2-0 teams - unfolds. Here's a quick breakdown of potentially the most influential elements.

Packers pass rush vs. Cowboys offensive line
Perhaps the biggest reason for Tony Romo's 309 passing yards and four touchdowns against the Packers last year was that he wasn't sacked, and he was rarely pressured. The Packers have to find a way to get to Romo this time around, and if not rack up some sacks, at least get some hits on him and disrupt the offense's timing.

"It's huge," said defensive end Aaron Kampman, who got the only three quarterback hits credited to the Gree..

Notebook: Options On The O-Line

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:18:00 CST

For the first time this season, the Packers will likely enter Sunday night's game vs. Dallas with all five of last year's starters on the offensive line in uniform.

Which five players will ultimately start against the Cowboys remains to be seen.

Center Scott Wells, who has started 29 games over the past two seasons, is expected to be active on Sunday night after being sidelined for most of the preseason and the first two regular-season games with a pinched nerve in his back.

"I thought Scott had a very good week," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "Haven't talked to him since we broke practice, but he looked like his old self out there today.

"He came out of Wednesday's and Thursday's practice pain-free. We'll see how Scott is in the morning and we'll move forward accordingly."

McCarthy said there is a possibility that Wells could start on Sunday, and if not, he would serve as the backup to Jason Spitz.
During Wells' absence, Spitz has s..

Packers Fan Memories

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 11:08:42 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 your favorite memories of the Green and Gold with other fans from around the world! This week's edition includes a relationship of rivals, a dream of quarterbacking the Packers, a trip from L.A., a fairly new fan's first time in Lambeau, and an awestruck fan from New Jersey.

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

Notebook: Finley Ready For First Action

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 10:16:46 CST

With Tory Humphrey's uncertain status for Sunday's game due to a knee injury, rookie No. 3 tight end Jermichael Finley is likely to be on the active 45-man roster for the first time in his career, against his hometown team, no less.

Finley, a native of Texas whose residence is in Dallas, was the Packers' third-round draft choice this past April. Having spent just three years in college, one as a redshirt, he came to Green Bay as a raw prospect with great ball skills but needing to refine his blocking.

He's made notable progress in that area and can't wait to get on the field for the first time as an NFL player on Sunday night against the Cowboys.

"I'm not a finished project," said Finley, who has been among the eight gameday inactives in the first two weeks of the season. "You just go out, keep grinding it out and get better and better. You have no choice but to block good if you're going against Aaron Kampman every day. It's going to be a good opportunity ..

Healthy Jenkins Making Presence Felt

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 10:19:42 CST

For defensive end Cullen Jenkins, having something to prove is a feeling he has become accustomed to ever since he entered the league as a non-drafted free agent and was cut in his first training camp.

After battling injuries throughout much of last season, Jenkins once again finds himself in a similar position as he focuses on staying healthy and making more of an impact in '08.

Jenkins has done just that the first two games, earning a game ball for his performance against the Vikings in the season opener as he posted five tackles and helped limit Pro Bowl running back Adrian Peterson to just 28 yards on 10 carries in the second half of the Packers' 24-19 win.

He followed that up with three tackles and a sack of Jon Kitna at Detroit last Sunday, matching his sack total from all of last season.

"He's off to a great start," defensive tackles coach Robert Nunn said. "It's still early, but he's been very disruptive in both games. He's been a factor i..

Rodgers Not Living Off Last Year's Game

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:10:49 CST

The entire offseason, Aaron Rodgers' performance in relief of Brett Favre at Dallas last year was talked about as the game that gave teammates, fans, and even Rodgers himself the confidence he was ready to take over as the Packers' starting quarterback.

So now that Rodgers is preparing to take on the Cowboys again this week, what does his 18-for-26, 201-yard, one-touchdown, no-interception performance last Nov. 29 mean?

"Not much," Rodgers said, point-blank. "That was last year. We've moved on. Like their media says, they didn't get to game plan for me. So now they have a whole week to game plan. It's going to be a great opportunity for us. It's a tough challenge."

The fact that the Cowboys are the only opponent the Packers face this season that already has film of Rodgers playing against them in a meaningful setting does work to their advantage somewhat. But the familiarity cuts both ways.

Despite Rodgers attempt to downplay last year's outing, he..

Notebook: Rouse Preparing For Challenge

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:10:34 CST

Safety Aaron Rouse, who missed last season's prime-time game at Dallas as a rookie because of a knee injury, will likely get the starting nod Sunday against one of the most explosive offenses in the league.

Starting strong safety Atari Bigby sustained a hamstring injury Sunday at Detroit toward the end of the first half attempting to break up a pass intended for wide receiver Mike Furrey in the end zone, and was unable to return.

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday he didn't think Bigby would be able to play against Dallas, and that Rouse took the majority of the reps with the first unit in practice.

"You are always taught to be ready in this business," Rouse said. "You never know when it is your time to be out there, and when the time comes you've got to step up.

"We're playing the Cowboys, Sunday night, a prime-time game. Who wouldn't be excited? I'm looking forward to the opportunity to go out and start and have a big game."

It won'..

Defense Displaying Killer Instinct

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:28:38 CST

If there's one truly promising trend aside from new starter Aaron Rodgers' strong play at quarterback in the season's first two games, it's been the defense's ability to close the deal.

And not just with a key stop, but with an interception that thwarts the opponent's ability to even generate any momentum for a late comeback drive.

That's how the Packers have sealed their first two wins of 2008, with turnovers at the most vital moments.

In the season opener against Minnesota, the Vikings trailed 24-19 and had the ball on their own 31-yard line with 1:51 left. Three snaps and just one first down later, safety Atari Bigby was right where he needed to be to pick off Tarvaris Jackson's overthrow, ending the game with 54 seconds left.

Then last Sunday in Detroit, the Packers had just re-taken the lead on a field goal, leaving Detroit with 5:17 on the clock and a 27-25 deficit. On the very first play, cornerback Charles Woodson was in perfect position to..

Notebook: Rodgers Avoids INTs, But Not Contact

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 11:09:33 CST

Head Coach Mike McCarthy rehashed a little of what he liked, as well as what he didn't like, about quarterback Aaron Rodgers' performance on Sunday.

What he liked was no interceptions, or even the real threat of an interception, for the second straight game. He also appreciated a solid completion percentage (24-of-38 for 63.2 percent) in a game the receivers had a few dropped balls.

"He's making good decisions and he's being accurate with the football," McCarthy said. "He hasn't taken many chances, and that's all part of good quarterback play."

There was one chance Rodgers did take, which McCarthy didn't appreciate. After a nifty tip-toe along the sideline for a 9-yard scramble to pick up a first down, Rodgers tried to cut back to the middle of the field to pick up more yards and was drilled by Detroit defensive tackle Cory Redding.

He popped right back up, but those are the kind of hits Rodgers has to avoid, particularly when he had the first down..

Toughing It Out, Woodson Comes Up Big

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 16:18:36 CST

DETROIT - Who needs practice, right?

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said on Friday that even though veteran cornerback Charles Woodson hadn't practiced all week, his ability to play through injuries, and play well, had earned the coach's trust enough to allow him all the way up to game time to see if he could play on his broken toe.

Woodson honored that trust, as the former University of Michigan star intercepted two passes in a span of two minutes in the fourth quarter on Sunday, returning the second one for a touchdown. The defensive gems allowed the Packers to not only hold on but ultimately run away from Detroit in a 48-25 victory at Ford Field.

"He's been a true pro for us, time and time again," McCarthy said. "To go out and perform at the level he did today, I just can't say enough about him and what his production obviously meant to our win today because I felt, just individually, he turned that game around in the fourth quarter."

Woodson broke a ..

Notebook: Rookies Make Early Impact

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 16:18:59 CST

DETROIT - After a season-opening victory in which the Packers' 2008 rookie class had little to no impact, two of the team's first-year crew made its presence felt early in Week 2 at Detroit.

Non-drafted running back Kregg Lumpkin and second-round wide receiver Jordy Nelson combined for 70 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown Sunday in the Packers' 48-25 victory over Detroit at Ford Field.

With running back Ryan Grant still being cautious with his hamstring and Brandon Jackson coming back from a minor concussion, Lumpkin started by contributing to the Packers' first touchdown drive in the first quarter.

After catching a short pass for a modest 2-yard gain, Lumpkin had his number called on second-and-3 from the Detroit 29. He burst through a hole on the left side of the line and muscled his way for 19 yards, setting up a first-and-goal that eventually became a 9-yard TD pass to James Jones.

On Green Bay's next drive, one play after a 62-yard pass to ..

Game Review: Packers Respond, Run Away From Lions

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 16:18:13 CST

DETROIT - The Packers started out Sunday strutting their stuff. They ended it showing what they were made of.

After watching a 21-point lead disappear in the second half in Detroit, the Packers responded with a big play on offense to regain the lead and then three interceptions that produced scores down the stretch to ultimately pull away from the Lions 48-25 at Ford Field.

With the win, the Packers improved to 2-0 on the young season and took sole possession of first place in the NFC North. But more important than the team's status on this day was the grit and resolve it showed in the face of what could have gone down as a crushing collapse.

"If you're going to be a good team, a team that's going to make a run, you're going to have to play games like this that are going to test you, as a defense, as a team," defensive tackle Colin Cole said. "It's really going to show the character of your team, how we ended up in the win column. We took care of business, ..

AP Game Summary: Packers Tame The Lions 48-25

Sun, 14 Sep 2008 15:36:15 CST

DETROIT -- Aaron Rodgers had Motor City flashbacks, watching the Green Bay Packers blow a big lead against the Detroit Lions.

There was a major difference: Rodgers was playing and Brett Favre was elsewhere.

Rodgers threw three touchdown passes in the first four drives of his second start, helping Green Bay build a big lead it needed in a 48-25 win over the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

Green Bay led 21-0 midway through the second quarter, but fell behind by a point with 7:41 left after Calvin Johnson caught his second TD in the fourth quarter.

The Packers went back ahead with a field goal on the ensuing drive, then turned the game back into the rout it had been with three straight interceptions.

Charles Woodson and Nick Collins returned two of the picks for touchdowns, giving Green Bay a lopsided lead again.

"It reminded me of last year," Rodgers said.

Last season in Detroit, Favre helped the Packers build a 34-12 lead in the ..

Packers Fan Memories

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:13:30 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 your favorite memories of the Green and Gold with other fans from around the world! This week's edition includes a newborn Parisian Packers fan, a long-time fan's first experience at Lambeau, and storytelling with fans who grew up during the championship-producing Lombardi era.

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

Style Won't Change Against Detroit WRs

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:11:57 CST

In terms of size and physicality, the starting receivers for the Detroit Lions present one of the toughest matchups the Green Bay Packers will face all season.

Veteran Roy Williams, who's 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, and second-year rising star Calvin Johnson, 6-5 and 235, have the kind of athleticism, reach and jump-ball ability not necessarily seen every week, particularly not in the NFC North.

But the Lions can be sure to see the same type of coverage from the Packers they've always seen, whether it be against them or on film against other teams. Veteran cornerbacks Al Harris (6-1, 190) and Charles Woodson (6-1, 202) are going to stick to their bump-and-run, in-your-face press coverage at the line of scrimmage that's a staple of defensive coordinator Bob Sanders' scheme, no matter how the matchup looks on paper.

Woodson is listed on the injury report as questionable with a fractured toe, and he didn't practice all week, but Head Coach Mike McCarthy said he'l..

Notebook: Team Expecting Lions' Best Effort

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:10:49 CST

The Packers might be entering Sunday's game with a five-game winning streak against Detroit, but they are anticipating a motivated Lions team looking to redeem themselves after struggling in their opener last Sunday in Atlanta.

"It would be a mistake to look past the Lions," linebacker Nick Barnett said. "That's like fighting a man that is right in front of your face and trying to see who is behind him. You'll get hit in the chin, so you've got to keep yourself focused on who is in front of you and handle that battle first."

Detroit fell behind 21-0 in the first quarter against the Falcons in the 34-21 loss, and allowed an Atlanta franchise-record 318 rushing yards, including 220 from running back Michael Turner.

"I think we have done a great job of talking about it and believing it, the fact that we will see their best shot on Sunday," defensive end Aaron Kampman said. "The reputation of Coach (Rod) Marinelli is a fiery guy, an intense guy ready to get his..

Rodgers' Feet Don't Fail Him

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:56:03 CST

For Aaron Rodgers, the comparisons to Brett Favre are inevitable and ongoing. The reasons don't need to be rehashed here.

But in his first NFL start, Rodgers already separated himself somewhat from Favre, or at least from how the future Hall of Famer has played in the latter portion of his career.

Against Minnesota on Monday night, Rodgers didn't hesitate to tuck the ball and run when he needed to, and he did so effectively.

While his eight rushes for 35 yards, including a 1-yard quarterback sneak for a touchdown, weren't "game-changing" plays by any means, consider the following comparisons to Favre's last several years in Green Bay.

--Rodgers' 35 rushing yards in one game are more than Favre had in three of the last five full seasons. The other two years, Favre had 36 rushing yards (in 2004) and 62 (in 2005), totals Rodgers is likely to surpass in the next game or two.
--Rodgers' long run Monday night gained 21 yards. Favre had two runs of 20..

Notebook: Grant Working Toward Sunday

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:57:57 CST

Starting running back Ryan Grant was limited in practice for the second straight day with a sore hamstring, but expressed confidence that he will be able to play Sunday at Detroit.

Grant rushed for 92 yards on 12 carries in his first action of the season in Monday night's win over Minnesota, including a 57-yarder to set up Green Bay's final score of the night.

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Tuesday that Grant was "very sore" at halftime of the game and was not at full strength, which both he and Grant said was apparent on the long run.

"It was definitely the most work I have done," Grant said. "Game work is more work, so that was good, and the fact that I didn't have any setbacks or anything like that. It's getting there."
McCarthy said the plan was for Grant to be limited Wednesday and Thursday, and then test the hamstring out Friday in practice.
"I know Ryan wants to play, and his communication will be that he'll want to play, I'm sure. But once h..

Notebook: Jenkins Starts Season Strong

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:13:18 CST

With the Packers a little thinner at defensive tackle than they have been in recent years, starting defensive end Cullen Jenkins' versatility likely will prove more valuable than ever in 2008.

The season certainly started that way Monday night, with Jenkins playing a hefty percentage of the defensive snaps, handling right end on run downs and then shifting inside on passing downs when Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila came in to rush the passer from the edge.

Statistically, there was nothing eye-popping about Jenkins' performance, as he recorded two solo tackles and two quarterback hits. But his contributions in plugging holes against the run and helping with stunts on the pass rush didn't go unnoticed, as Head Coach Mike McCarthy said on Wednesday that Jenkins would be getting a game ball from Monday night.

For Jenkins personally, it was an important outing because he played so much of last season with a variety of nagging injuries. After signing his first multi-year c..

Lumpkin Stays Prepared In Case Call Comes

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:11:21 CST

Whether Kregg Lumpkin will make his NFL debut Sunday at Detroit remains to be seen, but with the other two running backs on the roster each recovering from injuries, the rookie back is at least preparing for the possibility.

Starting running back Ryan Grant, who missed most of the preseason with a hamstring injury, started on Monday night against the Vikings and posted 92 yards, but that came in limited work as he carried the ball just 12 times. Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Tuesday afternoon that Grant was "very sore" at halftime, and was not at full strength in the game.

Grant's participation in Wednesday's practice was limited, and McCarthy said he hoped to rest him some again tomorrow before likely getting more work in Friday's practice.

Backup Brandon Jackson did not participate at all in practice on Wednesday as he recovered from a concussion he sustained in the second half on Monday night. McCarthy did classify the injury as "minor", and said he hop..

Notebook: Plenty Of Work Ahead

Mike Spofford and Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:55:45 CST

The offseason mantra for the Green Bay Packers under Head Coach Mike McCarthy has been to improve individually from within. The in-season focus is to improve collectively with each successive game.

That will be the priority as the Packers move from their season-opening victory over Minnesota to another NFC North Division contest this week in Detroit. There was plenty to praise in Monday night's 24-19 victory over the Vikings, but that performance by no means featured this team as a finished product.

"We need to focus on improvement, and that's our focus," McCarthy said on Tuesday. "That will never change. We have a blueprint in place that's worked for us the last two years. Both teams improved throughout the course of the year, and that's what I'm holding this team accountable to. We need to improve.

"We've played one game. We're 1-0, and we have a lot of work to do."

That work can be found in each of the team's three phases.

For the offen..

Rodgers Strong In Starting Debut

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:07:11 CST

After waiting patiently for his chance to be the Packers' No. 1 quarterback the past three seasons and dealing with plenty of offseason scrutiny, Aaron Rodgers delivered a solid performance in his first start on Monday night.

Rodgers completed 18-of-22 passes for 178 yards and a touchdown with no interceptions (115.5 rating), was not sacked, and added 35 yards on eight carries in the season-opening victory over the Vikings.

His 81.8 completion percentage ranks as the second-best mark in league history by a quarterback (min. 20 attempts) in his first start, behind only former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Rob Johnson's 83.3 percentage (20-of-24) in 1997.

"I thought he managed the game, especially for the distorted and the number of unfavorable down and distances that we had, particularly early in the game with all of the penalties," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "I thought he did a good job of managing the game, not taking chances, playing to the play ca..

Packers See Return From Blackmon

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:07:28 CST

With the Vikings scoring on their first drive of the second half to narrow the Packers' lead to 10-6, the Packers were in need of a big play to give themselves some breathing room, and cornerback Will Blackmon provided that with his 76-yard punt return for a touchdown midway through the third quarter.

Blackmon fielded Vikings punter Chris Kluwe's kick at the Green Bay 24 and started off down the left sideline, just keeping his feet in bounds, before cutting across the field and running down the right sideline for the score to put the Packers up 17-6.

"That was a big, big play in the game," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "Big plays are important. Explosive gains, we talk about all the time, especially in big-time games. It's great to have him back healthy."

The third-year cornerback has shown flashes of his dynamic big-play ability early in his career, but has battled injuries throughout his first two seasons in Green Bay, playing in only 13 games.

..

Notebook: Great Catch Gives Hall 1st TD

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:06:54 CST

It's a common play in the goal-line offense, and Korey Hall almost never gets the ball. But it came his way Monday night.

Trailing 3-0 early in the second quarter with the Packers facing third-and-goal from the Minnesota 1-yard line, quarterback Aaron Rodgers ran a play-action fake and looked to his left, where his first two receivers were covered. So as he side-stepped the Vikings' rush, Rodgers fired a low bullet to his only remaining choice, which was Hall cutting through the middle of the end zone.

Well-covered by Minnesota linebacker Ben Leber, Hall made an impressive diving catch for the touchdown, his first NFL score that gave the Packers a lead they wouldn't relinquish the rest of the night.

"It's one of those plays we run all the time in practice, and they always hit the corner route or the flat route," said Hall, a second-year fullback. "He was scrambling out to his left, and I was the third read on that. He ended up having to throw it low and out..

Game Review: Not Pretty, But Victorious In Opener

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:06:25 CST

To a man, the Green Bay Packers would admit it wasn't their cleanest or most impressive performance. So would the regular-season record 71,004 in attendance at Lambeau Field.

But it was a victorious one, and to have Monday night's 24-19 season-opening win come against NFC North rival Minnesota, the team many picked to stop the Packers from repeating as division champions, made it plenty satisfying, flaws and all.

"It's one little mission of many to come that we accomplished tonight," linebacker A.J. Hawk said.

It was accomplished despite 118 yards in penalties, two apparent scores negated, and a total of nine third- and fourth-down conversions by the opponents. But all that was overcome with remarkably poised and efficient quarterback play from first-time starter Aaron Rodgers, a big play on special teams, and just enough defense to hold off a Vikings' comeback.

Atari Bigby's interception of Tarvaris Jackson with 54 seconds left thwarted Minnesota'..

AP Game Summary: Packers Hold Off Vikings 24-19 In Opener

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:35:33 CST

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- Aaron Rodgers passed his first test as the Green Bay Packers' new quarterback, throwing for 178 yards and a touchdown and scoring on a game-clinching sneak in a 24-19 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night.

Rodgers, who was 18-of-22, got help from the Packers' special teams, running back Ryan Grant and safety Atari Bigby to beat a bitter division rival in his first regular-season start, which came in the wake of Brett Favre's offseason unretirement saga.

"I'm happy we won, and that he played well," Packers coach Mike McCarthy said. "That's what's important. I don't really get caught up in all the other things. And it's important for him not to, too."

Will Blackmon's 76-yard punt return gave Green Bay a 17-6 lead going into the fourth quarter.

Minnesota's Tarvaris Jackson answered with a 23-yard touchdown pass to Sidney Rice on fourth-and-1 to cut the Packers' lead to five with 14:12 remaining. But a 2-point c..

Rodgers Sharp, Packers Lead 10-3 At Half

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:28:42 CST

Aaron Rodgers threw for 136 yards and added 35 yards on the ground in his first NFL start as the Packers lead the Vikings 10-3 at halftime.

Rodgers connected with Greg Jennings, who made a leaping grab over cornerback Charles Gordon, on a 56-yard pass down to the Vikings' 6-yard line early in the second quarter. Rodgers threw a 1-yard touchdown pass on third-and-goal to fullback Korey Hall to give Green Bay the 7-3 lead. It was the first touchdown of Hall's career.

On Green Bay's next possession starting from their own 13, running back Ryan Grant ran for 19 yards on the first play of the series. Rodgers added an 8-yard run for a first down, and found wide receiver Donald Driver down the middle of the field for a 25-yard gain on a play-action pass. Mason Crosby capped the drive with a 42-yard field goal to give the Packers a 10-3 lead.

The Packers squandered a scoring opportunity right before the half. Rodgers completed passes of 14 and 17 yards to Jennings,..

Packers, Vikings Alumni Come Together For ESPN's Chalk Talk Luncheon

Duke Bobber, Packers.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:45:56 CST

To coincide with the kickoff to the 2008 NFL season, ESPN's Monday Night Football Chalk Talk Luncheon series touched down in Green Bay for the first time.

The series, which debuted last season, is geared toward showcasing the teams, host cities, and fans in the weekly primetime matchup. Green Bay is the first of 12 stops the series has planned for the 2008 NFL season. The luncheons also recognize local organizations for their involvement in youth fitness initiatives in their communities.

Dick's Sporting Goods selected the Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay as its 2008 Community Service Award winner. The Club is no stranger to recognition; over the last five years, Green Bay's Club has won more national program awards than any other Boys & Girls Club in America - regardless of budget or market size.

The Miracle League of Green Bay received the o..

Notebook: Kampman Returns Home For Historic Night

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 14:33:36 CST

The national media descended upon defensive end Aaron Kampman's tornado-ravaged hometown Friday night, as the Aplington-Parkersburg High School football team played its first home game of the 2008 season.

And Kampman, who returned to Iowa after the tornado in late May to help with the clean-up efforts, was in attendance as well. Kampman made the quick jaunt to Parkersburg after practice on Friday and spoke to his high school team in the locker room prior to their taking the field, which had been rebuilt next to the destroyed high school in time for the football season.

Aplington-Parkersburg did its community proud, trouncing West Marshall 53-20 to improve to 2-0 on the season. Kampman said it was an emotionally-charged evening, seeing his head coach with tears in his eyes and seeing the team play so well.

"I'll tell you, one of the greatest things was it was almost like there were two ballgames played last night," Kampman said. "One was the football game an..

Rivalry Adds Intrigue To Season Opener

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 14:33:09 CST

For only the second time in franchise history, the Packers will open up their season at Lambeau Field on Monday Night Football. That the first game of '08 comes against a chief division rival only adds to the excitement level.

Green Bay's only other season-opener at home on MNF came on Sept. 1, 1997, against the Chicago Bears when the Packers were the defending Super Bowl champions.

Now the Packers are the reigning NFC North Division champions, and host a Minnesota Vikings team that many believe will provide the biggest challenge in the division this year, on a prime-time stage no less.

"It's big for us," wide receiver Donald Driver said. "This is a rival game that we know that everyone is watching, especially on Monday Night Football. No one else is playing football but us, so we've got to show the world."

Last year the Packers won both games against the Vikings for the first time since '04, including the first shutout in the histor..

Notebook: Hawk Hopeful For Return

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:32:46 CST

Linebacker A.J. Hawk practiced for the second straight day Friday, and although the decision of whether he plays Monday night against the Vikings will not be his to make, he remains optimistic about his chances to be on the field.

Hawk, who sustained a chest injury in the first quarter of the preseason opener against the Bengals, reiterated on Friday that his fate for the season opener will ultimately be determined by team physician, Pat McKenzie. He is listed as questionable for the game on the team's injury report and said Friday he has not been cleared to play yet.

For a player who has played all 32 games during his first two seasons and never missed a game during his four years at Ohio State, the last few weeks have been challenging for Hawk.

"Obviously it's tough," Hawk said. "I've never been off the field like that for that long of a period before. It's good to at least get back to practice. It feels good to be out there and almost be part of the team..

DE Allen, LT Clifton Meet Again

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:32:27 CST

The Vikings have their new hired gun, and the Packers have their old reliable.

One of the more intriguing one-on-one matchups for Monday night's season opener between Minnesota and Green Bay will take place in quarterback Aaron Rodgers' blind spot. That's where the Vikings' key offseason acquisition, defensive end and pass rusher extraordinaire Jared Allen, will battle snap after snap against the Packers' Pro Bowl veteran left tackle, Chad Clifton.

With the Vikings determined to pressure and rattle Rodgers as much as possible in his first NFL start, a hefty burden, as usual, falls on Clifton to do what he did for Brett Favre's final eight years in Green Bay, and that's keep his quarterback from hearing footsteps behind him.

"They pay us to get in the quartertback's face, to hit him, and hopefully disrupt his timing," Allen said in a conference call with Wisconsin reporters this week. "If we can do that we feel we've got a great chance of winning. Obviously ..

Packers Fan Memories

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 10:00:19 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 your favorite memories of the Green and Gold with other fans from around the world! This week's edition includes an instant Packers fan, a family vacation to Packers Family Night, a flight to Green Bay with dad, and Aussie fans making the overseas trip from down under.

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

Notebook: 'KGB' Looks To Provide Boost

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:31:26 CST

After missing the entire preseason as he recovered from offseason knee surgery, defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila will likely make his return to the field on Monday night vs. Minnesota, a team he enjoyed some success against last season.
Gbaja-Biamila finished second on the team with 9 1/2 sacks in 2007, and more than half of those came against the division rival Vikings. At the Metrodome last September, Gbaja-Biamila posted his franchise-best fifth three-sack game of his career, plus a forced fumble and a pass defensed. His final sack of the afternoon put him at 69 on his career, surpassing Reggie White's 68 1/2 to give him the franchise career record.

Gbaja-Biamila followed that performance up in November with two more sacks in Green Bay's 34-0 win over Minnesota at Lambeau Field. Despite the success he enjoyed last year, and his one-on-one matchup changing from Bryant McKinnie to Artis Hicks, 'KGB' said his approach for this game will remain the same.

"I don..

Pickett's Presence Imperative vs. Peterson

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:29:59 CST

The timing of defensive tackle Ryan Pickett's return to the Packers' lineup couldn't be better, and not just because this week is the regular-season opener.

On Monday night at Lambeau Field, the Packers' run defense will face one of its toughest challenges of the season in Minnesota running back Adrian Peterson, and having Pickett in there to plug the middle will be a key to the defense's overall performance.

"He's a big part of what we do," defensive tackles coach Robert Nunn said of Pickett, who missed all of the preseason with a hamstring injury. "He's a guy that does a good job of not getting washed around in there, can anchor down in the middle.

"He has a lot of pride in not letting people run when he's in there. He plays double teams in there and plays smash-mouth ball about as good as anybody in the league, in my opinion. He makes a big difference. He's hard to move out."

Pickett's 330-plus pounds generally take up two blockers in the trenc..

Jordy Nelson Training Camp Diary - Part VI

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:22:20 CST

Rookie wide receiver Jordy Nelson recently finished up his first training camp in the NFL, and Packers.com checked in with him for the final time to get his thoughts and experiences in this training camp diary.

Nelson was a consensus All-America selection at Kansas State, and was one of three finalists for the Biletnikoff Award in 2007. He posted school records as a senior with 122 receptions for 1,606 yards after beginning his career with the Wildcats as a walk-on safety.

In the Packers' 23-21 loss vs. Tennessee in the preseason finale last Thursday, Nelson returned two kickoffs for 50 yards, including a 29-yarder.

I thought the last game went well. I got a chance to return a couple of kicks and was assignment sound in everything. I think I went out and did everything I was supposed to do and it made me feel confident after that game going into the season.

The final roster cuts are tough on everyone. It's not just rookies that are getting l..

Rodgers Readies For Opportunity

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:44:55 CST

Aaron Rodgers has waited patiently for his chance to be the starting quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, and that opportunity will finally arrive Monday night when the division rival Minnesota Vikings visit Lambeau Field for the season opener.

"It's exciting, it really is," Rodgers said. "I've been running out of the tunnel for three years, and now I get to be the guy coming out. It's going to be electric Monday night, a great experience, a great challenge for us on offense.

"It's definitely a little surreal. It feels like it has gone by quick, but I know the years individually went by a little slow. It's nice to be able to be the guy now. I have the opportunity to be one of the leaders of this football team and hopefully get things started on the right foot this Monday."

After serving as the backup to Brett Favre for the past three seasons, Rodgers will inherit a starting role that brings plenty of added responsibility and pressure.

"Life's di..

Notebook: Spitz Back At C, Moll At RG

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:47:09 CST

By giving Scott Wells more than two weeks to rest his trunk/lower back injury, the Packers and the veteran center were hoping they'd have the muscle strain licked and prevent it from becoming a nagging, recurring thing.

No such luck.

Wells suffered a setback in practice on Monday and was sidelined once again on Tuesday, putting him right back where he was after initially re-aggravating the injury in the second preseason game at San Francisco on Aug. 16.

That also reverted the Packers' offensive line to the one that started the preseason finale last week against Tennessee, with Jason Spitz moving over to start at center for Wells and Tony Moll taking Spitz's place at right guard.

"We've trained for this particular situation," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "I didn't think we would be experiencing it in Week 1, but that's part of the game. I'm not really concerned about it. I'm just planning and working through it."

McCarthy said Wells is ob..

Sept. 2-6 Parking at Lambeau Field Atrium

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:27:28 CST

During the Logging Congress taking place in the Lambeau Field parking lot on the east side of the stadium, visitors to the Lambeau Field Atrium are asked to use the parking lot on the north end of the stadium. The lot can be accessed off Lombardi Avenue, utilizing the entrance near the Lambeau Field sign.

We appreciate our visitors' patience and apologize for any inconvenience.

Thank you!

Notebook: Flynn Begins Season As No. 2 QB

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:38:49 CST

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Monday that the competition at backup quarterback will continue on throughout the season, but as of now rookie Matt Flynn will be working as the No. 2 signal-caller as the team prepares for the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings next Monday night.

Flynn, who was selected by the Packers in the seventh round out of LSU, spent the entire offseason and training camp as the No. 3 quarterback behind starter Aaron Rodgers and fellow rookie Brian Brohm.

But Flynn continued to look more impressive as the preseason went on, finishing 27-of-42 for 209 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions as he posted a 100.2 quarterback rating.

He capped off the preseason with a strong showing last Thursday against Tennessee, throwing two touchdown passes, including one to wide receiver Jake Allen as time expired to cap off a 13-play, 85-yard drive and pull the Packers within two points. Wide receiver Johnny Quinn was unable to get both ..

As Roster Finalized, Focus Falls On Special Teams

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:37:02 CST

As he made the final roster cuts over the weekend, General Manager Ted Thompson still needed to shore up the long-snapping position on special teams.

He not only did that Monday, he made two other moves that showed how heavily special teams weighed on his mind at cutdown time.

Thompson signed veteran punter Derrick Frost, released over the weekend by Washington, to replace Jon Ryan. And then he spared special teams standout Tracy White by releasing fellow backup linebacker Abdul Hodge from a deep linebacking corps to make room on the roster for Brett Goode, the team's new long snapper.

So while the Packers will enter Week 1 of the 2008 season with a new snapper, punter and holder on field goals (Frost replaces Ryan there, too), they'll maintain some continuity on their coverage units with White, whose 33 special teams tackles over the past two seasons is tied for the top mark on the team with Jason Hunter.

"There is change, but there is always a li..