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Smith Comes Through In The Clutch

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 10:06:59 CST

Green Bay's secondary has held several teams' No. 1 wide receivers in check this season and they continued that strong play against Carolina's Pro Bowl wideout Steve Smith early in Sunday's game, but Smith was able to make two key catches down the stretch that proved to be the difference in Carolina's 35-31 win at Lambeau Field.

After the Packers had taken a 31-28 lead on Mason Crosby's 19-yard field goal with two minutes remaining, returner Mark Jones' returned Crosby's kickoff out to the Green Bay 45. On the very next play, quarterback Jake Delhomme dropped back and aired out a deep pass over the middle for Smith, who was covered by Charles Woodson. Smith made a leaping grab as he was falling back down to the Packers 1-yard line for a 54-yard gain before he was brought down by linebacker Brandon Chillar.

Running back DeAngelo Williams scored on the next play to put the Panthers up for good at 35-31.

"It shouldn't have been a catch, and I take full respon..

Game Review: Another Opportunity Missed

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 10:06:23 CST

No matter what happens over the final four games of 2008, the Green Bay Packers are going to look back at the month of November as one of blown chances.

The latest was Sunday at Lambeau Field against the Carolina Panthers, a game in which the Packers stormed back from an 11-point second-half deficit to grab a seven-point lead, only to be undone by poor short-yardage execution at the goal line, shoddy kickoff coverage, and a couple of big plays by Pro Bowl receiver Steve Smith.

The end result was a crushing 35-31 defeat in front of 70,297 home fans that marks the team's fourth loss this season by four or fewer points, and third in the past month, leaving the Packers at 5-7 and two games behind Sunday night's Chicago-Minnesota winner in the NFC North standings.

"We're disappointed," quarterback Aaron Rodgers said. "We've just come up short so many times this year. We're not going to make excuses.

"You look at the games we lost, we've lost with opport..

Game Notes: Kampman Records Two Sacks

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 10:06:04 CST

The Packers' lack of a consistent pass rush has plagued the defense since Cullen Jenkins' season-ending injury back in Week 4.

But the one consistent performer in that area has been Pro Bowler Aaron Kampman, who sacked Carolina's Jake Delhomme twice on Sunday, a nice reward for his relentless pursuit that many times hasn't proved fruitful, at least statistically.

Kampman has been a steady presence in pressuring from the edge and was the only Green Bay lineman to get close to New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees in last week's loss. His two sacks Sunday were his first since the Nov. 9 game at Minnesota, and they give him 9 1/2 on the season, just a half-sack from reaching double digits for the third straight year. Kampman has gone to the Pro Bowl each of the last two seasons.

Since getting his first sack of 2008 in the opener against the Vikings, Kampman has now recorded five multi-sack games this season, having posted 1 1/2 sacks at Detroit, vs. Dallas and at..

Jackson Steps In For Grant, Steps Up

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 10:06:42 CST

With starter Ryan Grant sidelined for the entire second half due to a thumb injury, backup Brandon Jackson provided a spark for the Packers' rushing attack with his best performance of the season on Sunday afternoon against Carolina.

Jackson finished the game with season bests of 80 yards and 11 carries. It was the second-highest yardage output of his career behind only his 113-yard performance in the 2007 regular-season finale vs. Detroit.

"When Ryan came out, it was like this is my time to go out there and play," Jackson said. "Like I always say, it's all about taking advantage of your opportunities (and) being prepared and being ready. 'RG' did a great job of helping coach tell me what to look for, and just me going through progressions and the offensive line blocking good."

Grant left the game with under five minutes left in the second quarter after spraining his right thumb and did not return. Although he said he could have come back and played, Grant ..

AP Game Summary: Panthers Edge Packers 35-31

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 11:38:36 CST

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- The Carolina Panthers should have been trudging into a snowy Green Bay night wondering for the second week in a row if they're really as good as their record would indicate.

Instead, they were celebrating an improbable come-from-behind victory Sunday, thanks to late back-to-back-to-back big plays by Mark Jones, Steve Smith and DeAngelo Williams -- and a Green Bay Packers team that seemed intent on giving the game away.

But with division rival Tampa Bay coming to Charlotte next Monday night, Smith wasn't gloating about the Panthers' stunning 35-31 victory in wintry conditions at Lambeau Field.

"It just means we're 9-3," Smith said. "It's nothing to go start making T-shirts about. It's just a record. We've got a very good opponent coming in our house Monday night. That's our next focus."

Williams scored his fourth touchdown of the game with 1:30 left after a big kickoff return by Jones and catch by Smith on a deep ball from Jake De..

Packers Trail Panthers 21-10 At Halftime

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 12:57:59 CST

Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams has 52 yards rushing and two touchdowns as Carolina leads the Packers 21-10 at halftime at Lambeau Field.

After the Packers went three-and-out on their first two possessions, the Panthers took over at the Green Bay 42. Williams had a 27-yard run down to the Packers 3, and then took it in two plays later for the 1-yard score to give Carolina a 7-0 lead.

Green Bay's defense forced a three-and-out from Carolina on their next possession, which included a sack by defensive end Aaron Kampman on third down. The Packers started out at the Carolina 35, and quarterback Aaron Rodgers found wide receiver Greg Jennings on the left sideline for a 17-yard pickup to put Green Bay in Panthers territory for the first time on the afternoon.

Rodgers found wide receiver James Jones for a 9-yard gain on third down to keep the drive alive, but another 9-yard pass to tight end Donald Lee fell two yards short of the first down, and Green Bay..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 11:23:03 CST

Green Bay Packers guard Daryn Colledge takes fans to locations throughout Lambeau Field, interviewing his teammates one-on-one in 'The Colledge Experience.' Fans are able to participate in the webisodes by submitting questions for Colledge to ask his guests of the week. Topics covered on the program will range from personal to football, and anything else fans come up with.

In last week's webisode, Colledge moved to the offensive side of the ball and grilled rookie wide receiver Jordy Nelson. Interviewed in the Lambeau Field shoe room, Nelson talked about being drafted by the Packers, the wide receivers' daily card game, and his lack of a golf game.

This week, 'The Colledge Experience' welcomes another member of the offensive line, tackle Mark Tauscher. From the equipment department's fitting room, Tauscher discusses his charity work, his experience being Wisconsin-born and playing for the Packers, who the biggest eater is on the team, and answers questions from int..

Notebook: Former McCarthy Pupil Leads Panthers

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 09:56:42 CST

On Sunday for the first time as a head coach, Mike McCarthy will face one of the many quarterbacks he has worked with during his NFL coaching career when Jake Delhomme and the Carolina Panthers visit Lambeau Field.

The pair worked together for three seasons (2000-02) in New Orleans when McCarthy was the offensive coordinator for the Saints and Delhomme served as a backup. Carolina played in Green Bay last November but Delhomme missed the game because of a season-ending elbow injury sustained in September.

Sunday's contest will be the sixth time in McCarthy's head-coaching tenure that the opposing quarterback is one he worked with during his coaching career. Since 2006, Green Bay has faced Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck twice ('07 playoffs and '06 regular season), Rams quarterback Marc Bulger twice (2006, 2007) and 49ers quarterback Alex Smith in '06.

"I learned a ton from Mike," Delhomme said. "He was fantastic, an absolutely wonderful teacher. I h..

Team's Health Improving; Tauscher 'Questionable' But Confident He'll Play

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 10:04:20 CST

The Packers came out of last Monday's game at New Orleans a bit banged up, but at the end of the week the injury situation isn't nearly as big a concern as it might have been.

Of the season-high 19 players on this week's injury report, 13 of them were full participants in practice on Friday and are listed as probable for Sunday's game, meaning there's a virtual certainty they'll be available for normal duty against the Carolina Panthers. One other player, defensive end Michael Montgomery (ankle), did not participate in Friday's practice but is also listed as probable.

Of the remaining five players, of utmost concern is veteran offensive tackle Mark Tauscher (hamstring), who was limited in practice for the second straight day and is listed as questionable, which is classified as a 50 percent chance of playing. But both Tauscher and Head Coach Mike McCarthy sounded reasonably confident his chances are better than that for Sunday.

"It's an important game," McC..

Blackmon Making Special Impact

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 09:56:07 CST

Cornerback Will Blackmon has made his presence felt as the NFC's leading punt returner, but his contributions have not been limited to that area as he has also performed well in kickoff coverage as well as at the nickel back position earlier this season.

Blackmon leads the NFC and is third in the NFL with a 13.4-yard average on punt returns, and is tied for the league lead with three other players with five returns of 20-plus yards. He is one of only four players in the league to have two or more touchdowns on punt returns.

"I feel like I have been doing a good job catching the ball and getting good field position," Blackmon said. "My goal is to score every game, but that is based on if I get a good kick and how well we block. I want to score as many times as I get the ball in my hands."

Both of Blackmon's punt return touchdowns came against Minnesota and were momentum swings in each game. In the season-opening win over the Vikings, his 76-yard score midwa..

Packers Must Follow Panthers' Turnaround

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 10:02:54 CST

A month and a half ago, the Carolina Panthers played probably their worst game of the season, getting blown out 27-3 at NFC South Division rival Tampa Bay in Week 6.

But the Panthers rebounded quickly from that performance to drub another division rival, the New Orleans Saints, 30-7, the following week. That kicked off a four-game winning streak that now has the Panthers right in the thick of the hotly contested NFC South at 8-3.

That's exactly the type of recovery and subsequent roll the Packers need now, coming off their worst defeat of 2008 Monday night in New Orleans, a 51-29 blowout. The Panthers, who come to Lambeau Field on Sunday, aren't really interested in sharing any advice of course, but if nothing else, when the Packers watch film this week they'll be seeing a team that was able to put an absolutely forgettable performance behind it and get going again right away.

"There was no magic formula," Carolina quarterback Jake Delhomme said. "We just w..

Notebook: Packers Have Presence In Pro Bowl Voting

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 09:55:37 CST

A little less than two weeks remain for fans to cast their vote for the Pro Bowl, and cornerback Charles Woodson, safety Nick Collins and wide receiver Greg Jennings are just some of the Packers that currently rank in the top five in the NFC at their respective positions.

Fan voting makes up one-third of the final tally, with votes from players and coaches each comprising a third. Fan balloting will conclude at 11 a.m. (CT) on Tuesday, Dec. 9, and the teams will be announced at 3 p.m. (CT) on Tuesday, Dec. 16, on NFL Network.

As of Tuesday, Woodson was the leading vote-getter in the NFC at cornerback. He is tied for the league lead with five interceptions, and also has 15 passes defensed and two sacks despite playing with a fractured toe for much of the season. Woodson is a four-time Pro Bowler but hasn't been selected since 2001.

Collins, who is tied with Woodson and two others for the NFL interception lead with five and leads the league with 230 intercep..

Colder Weather Not A Concern For Pregame And Postgame Action In The Tundra Tailgate Zone

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:09:19 CST

As the weather turns colder during the home stretch of the season, the Tundra Tailgate Zone, with its climate controlled tents, is the place to be for pregame and postgame action at Lambeau Field.

The area, also known as the "TTZ", is located in the parking lot on Lambeau Field's east side outside the Oneida Nation Gate and will be a host of great pregame action as fans enjoy gearing up for Sunday's contest vs. the Carolina Panthers.

Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to meet former Packers cornerback Craig Newsome, one of the key contributors to the Superbowl XXXI Championship team. Live music by The Experiment will keep the excitement flowing as well.

Fans also have the chance to win a trip to the Packers' sideline to watch the teams warm up.

The action doesn't end with the game's kickoff either, as the party continues in the TTZ during the game and fans without game tickets are invited to watch the game in the electric environment.

Notebook: Team Moving On, Quickly

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 09:48:40 CST

The short week of preparation combined with the Thanksgiving holiday present a challenge for the Packers as they get ready to host the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, but Head Coach Mike McCarthy insisted on Tuesday that the team is moving on as quickly as it can.

Monday night's 51-29 loss in New Orleans was the team's only real blowout loss of the season, but there's little to no time to lick any wounds with the NFC South co-leaders coming to Lambeau Field this week.

"We have to move forward," McCarthy said. "It's Tuesday. We have a short week. We'll spend a short time going through the corrections of New Orleans. But we need to jump on Carolina. It's a big game at home this week."

The players will come in around mid-day on Wednesday to go over the New Orleans game and then have a late practice Wednesday afternoon. Then the team will practice a tad earlier than normal on Thursday so the players and coaches can finish up by early afternoon to spend some Thanks..

Game Notes: O-Line Adjusts Again

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:25:02 CST

NEW ORLEANS - It's becoming an all-too-familiar scenario for the Packers' offensive line.

Once again on Monday night, a starter was out of the game early and the line had to adjust. This time, right tackle Mark Tauscher injured his hamstring on the second snap of the game and was replaced by Tony Moll.

Moll, who started a handful of games for Tauscher as a rookie in 2006, held his own as the offense had a productive first half with 195 yards and three touchdowns.

"I think Tony Moll stepped in and did a fine job," center Scott Wells said. "Obviously you hate to lose one of your guys, especially early in a game. But it's happened before, we've had a guy go down and someone always steps up and does a decent job. But we didn't get the job done today."

Indeed, the offense couldn't sustain that level of production in the second half, turning the ball over three times.

Most indicative of the line play, running back Ryan Grant was on his way to a ..

Winning Division Just Got Tougher

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:24:46 CST

NEW ORLEANS - The Packers' road to a possible NFC North Division title took a significant detour in Monday night's blowout loss, but it isn't blocked completely.

While the Packers dropped below .500 once again in the 51-29 defeat, they're still just one game out of first place at 5-6 with five games to play. The Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings, who both won on Sunday, are 6-5 and tied for the top spot.

That's not an insurmountable deficit by any means, but leapfrogging two teams in the final month of the season will not be an easy task.

"We've got five games left and it's still wide open," linebacker Brady Poppinga said. "We're still within one game of the Bears and the Vikings. We're just going to give 'em hell and see what happens at the end of the day. You can't say the season's over yet. We're still within striking distance."

They have to win this Sunday against Carolina, though, in order to stay there. With the Bears and Vikings playing ag..

Game Review: Blown Away By Brees

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:24:28 CST

NEW ORLEANS - Drew Brees continued his assault on the single-season passing yardage record at the Green Bay Packers' expense Monday night.

Facing only sporadic pressure from the Packers' pass rush and sporting his unfailing accuracy, Brees was in control from start to finish as he threw for 323 yards and four touchdowns, including two 70-yarders, to lead New Orleans to a 51-29 win over the Packers in front of 70,668 loud fans at the Louisiana Superdome.
"He was hot and we had nothing to cool him down," defensive tackle Ryan Pickett said. "He just hurt us all game. He beat us, flat out.

"He just played a great game, an almost flawless game."

That he did, completing 20-of-26 passes and posting a quarterback rating of 157.5, less than a full point from the highest possible rating of 158.3. He came in needing to average roughly 305 yards per game the rest of the season to break Dan Marino's passing record of 5,084 yards, set in 1984, and he was beyond that ..

AP Game Summary: Packers Fall To Saints 51-29

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 22:53:53 CST

NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- After heading out on the road for more than a month, the New Orleans Saints were unstoppable at home.

The Saints spent 43 days away from the Louisiana Superdome for a trip to London, a bye and three road games, then returned to New Orleans and put on one of the more memorable performances in franchise history.

Drew Brees threw for four scores, Deuce McAllister set a Saints record with his 54th career touchdown and New Orleans rolled to a 51-29 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Monday night.

"I mean, 40-something days on the road. It was great to get back in the dome," Brees said. "You look at this game, so many things. Deuce getting the record, us just really feeling like we had our stride going the whole game.

"We're kind of in the middle of pack, just like a lot of other teams," Brees continued. "This is the time where a few of those teams start to separate themselves and we want to be one of those teams."

Brees d..

Saturday Injury Update

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 10:08:36 CST

The Packers made two changes to their injury report on Saturday, including the addition of guard Josh Sitton, who is listed as questionable with an ankle injury.

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Sitton sustained the injury on Friday in practice when another player rolled up on his ankle.

Defensive end Jeremy Thompson, who was listed as probable on Friday with a groin injury, has been downgraded to questionable.
"Jeremy Thompson's injury would fall in the classification of a fatigue injury, so just after meeting with the doctors today, they feel his chances of potentially playing Monday have lessened," McCarthy said. "We will work Jeremy out before the game to see where he is."

McCarthy said safety/cornerback Jarrett Bush, listed as questionable with an ankle injury, will also test his injury Monday before the game to determine his availability.

Linebacker Nick Barnett underwent successful surgery on his knee Thursday at Bellin Hospital to repair a..

Lessons From The Big Easy

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 10:08:09 CST

McCARTHY'S TIME IN NEW ORLEANS SHAPED HIS COACHING STYLE

Eight years ago in New Orleans, upon earning his first chance to be an offensive coordinator, Mike McCarthy was bound and determined to teach the West Coast offense better than anyone had ever taught it.

He had a plan all worked out for his first training camp with the Saints, in the summer of 2000. He was going to teach one of the offensive concepts each day, just one - such as the strong-side run, for example - and teach it as thoroughly as he could.

He'd go over all the details and variations of the strong-side run so that it would be forever ingrained in his players by the end of the day, and everyone would be ready to progress to the next concept, a different run or maybe a play-action pass off the strong-side run, the following day.

Only there was a major flaw in his teaching theory, at least as far as training camp was concerned.

The Saints' practice structure during ca..

Notebook: Driver Back With Team

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 10:07:43 CST

Wide receiver Donald Driver, who missed the last two days of practice to travel to his hometown of Houston to visit his injured father, was back on the practice field Friday at the Don Hutson Center.

Driver's father, Marvin Driver Jr., has been hospitalized since suffering injuries following his arrest Monday for outstanding traffic warrants. Family members have said those injuries came after he was beaten by two police officers.

"Right now he is doing OK," Driver said. "I sat down with my dad and talked to my dad the last couple of days, and I was just trying to get an understanding of exactly what happened. We seemed to get that understanding and right now he is doing (OK).

"The biggest thing is that he is happy right now, and he had a smile on his face when I left. He told me to get back to work, so I had to go back to work."

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said on Wednesday that the team had intended to rest Driver on Wednesday and Thursday anyway as..

After Slow Start, Wells Returns To Form

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 10:07:02 CST

Until this season, center Scott Wells had not missed significant time due to an ordinary football injury in, well, seemingly forever.

He started 49 straight games as a collegiate standout at Tennessee, and in 2005 and 2006, he played in every game for the Packers upon becoming a regular on the offensive line.

He did miss two games in 2007, but that was after a poke in the eye fractured his eye socket, and it didn't require the sometimes long detour from football known as rehab. He just waited a couple of weeks, let it heal up, and was ready to go.

But 2008 has been a different sort of year for Wells. When an aggravated nerve in his back - which took some time to pinpoint and receive the proper treatment - forced him to the sidelines for all but one preseason game and the first three games of the regular season, he wasn't exactly the old Scott Wells when he finally took the field at Tampa Bay in Week 4.

But now with roughly a half-season under his b..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 10:20:43 CST

Green Bay Packers guard Daryn Colledge takes fans to locations throughout Lambeau Field, interviewing his teammates one-on-one in 'The Colledge Experience.' Fans are able to participate in the webisodes by submitting questions for Colledge to ask his guests of the week. Topics covered on the program will range from personal to football, and anything else fans come up with.

In last week's episode, Colledge grilled defensive tackle Colin Cole in the Lambeau Field players' lounge. Cole discussed playing with Aaron Kampman at Iowa, wrestling, and his consulting company, The Cole Group.

This week, 'The Colledge Experience' moves to the other side of the ball with rookie wide receiver Jordy Nelson. Interviewed in the Lambeau Field shoe room, Nelson talked about being drafted by the Packers, the wide receivers' daily card game, and his lack of a golf game.

Check back next Friday for a brand new webisode of 'The Colledge Experience!'

Ask A Question..

AP Story: Former Packers CB Bob Jeter Dead At 71

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:43:53 CST

MILWAUKEE (AP) -- Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Bob Jeter, the father of Wisconsin-Milwaukee men's basketball coach Rob Jeter, has died.

Wisconsin-Milwaukee spokesman Kevin O'Connor said Rob Jeter learned of the death Thursday afternoon and went to join family members in Chicago, where his father lived. He said Rob Jeter told him by phone that his father was believed to have died of cardiac arrest.

O'Connor said Rob Jeter plans to rejoin his team in time for Saturday's game with crosstown rival Marquette.

Bob Jeter, who was 71, played on the Green Bay teams that won the NFL championship in 1965 and the first two Super Bowls. He played for the Packers from 1963-70 and was with the Chicago Bears from 1971-73. He was inducted in 1985 into the Packers Hall of Fame.

On Record Paces: Packers Secondary Readies For Saints Passing Attack

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 10:06:39 CST

Green Bay's secondary has clearly made the most of its opportunities in the first 10 games as it leads the league in both interceptions and touchdown returns, but the Saints' explosive offense may provide the sternest test to date on Monday night in New Orleans.

New Orleans enters Monday night's game with the top-ranked offense in the league, averaging 411.5 yards per game, including the No. 1 passing attack in the NFL led by quarterback Drew Brees.

Brees has thrown for a league-best 3,251 yards through 10 games, putting him on pace to break the record of 5,084 set by Miami's Dan Marino in 1984. He also leads the league in attempts (398) and third-down passer rating (120.5).

"He's having a good season," Saints head coach Sean Payton said. "He's been throwing the ball well. He has been extremely accurate. He gets rid of it quick himself. He goes through his progressions very fast and he has worked extremely hard.

"Occasionally you come across somebo..

Notebook: Fast Start Could Be Key

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:06:17 CST

In Green Bay's last three victories, the Packers scored first as the offense put points on the board on either the first or second drive of the game, and having some success early against the Saints could prove to be crucial when the Packers travel to the Superdome on Monday night.

Last Sunday against Chicago, running back Ryan Grant posted a game-long 35-yard run on the second play from scrimmage. Although the drive didn't generate any points, the offense shifted the field as Chicago opened up its first drive at its own 10-yard line.

On the Packers' second possession, quarterback Aaron Rodgers completed all five passes for 61 yards and capped off the drive with a three-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Greg Jennings.

"Our offense thrives when we are in a rhythm, and we got in that rhythm a few times, especially the last two home games," Rodgers said. "We need to start that rhythm early. We can't have a three-and-out starting the game.

"You nee..

Crosby Makes Strong Recovery

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:05:08 CST

Kickers never know when their opportunities to shine are going to come.

Mason Crosby got his first right away, in the opening game of his rookie season, when he was called upon to make a 42-yard field goal in the closing seconds to beat Philadelphia. But then it took a season-and-a-half, until Week 10 of this year, before his next game-winning chance, and he pushed a well-struck, 52-yarder just right in a one-point loss at Minnesota.

So when you wait 14 months to the day for another opportunity to be the hero, and you don't come through, how long does it take to get over it? Logic would dictate that when Crosby drilled a 53-yarder through Lambeau Field's swirling south end zone winds to close out the first half last week against Chicago, the Minnesota game was officially behind him.

But truth be told, Crosby was over the last-second miss the moment he walked onto the practice field last Wednesday to get ready to play the Bears. Not only because he needed to..

Hawk Quickly Settles Into Middle

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:24:45 CST

During the week leading up to his first NFL start at middle linebacker, A.J. Hawk looked rather unfazed by the whole ordeal of switching from his customary weak-side spot to take injured Nick Barnett's place in the middle.

He looked the same way on the field Sunday against the Chicago Bears, and the transition went as smoothly as any of the Packers players or coaches could have hoped.

"I was very pleased with him as far as his comfort and his poise and how he handled the whole situation," linebackers coach and assistant head coach Winston Moss said. "I actually throughout the week leading up to the game, I had a good feeling he was going to play well, but he actually exceeded that. So I'm excited, and I'm very pleased with the way it came out."

To say that Hawk looked like a natural in the middle may be overstating it a bit, but Moss used phrases such as "awfully good" and "extremely comfortable" in describing Hawk's play. After coaches reviewed the film, H..

Notebook: Packers Look To Sustain Success

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:22:22 CST

There's no better time than now for the Packers' first legitimate winning streak of 2008.

Tied with Minnesota and Chicago at 5-5 for the NFC North Division lead, the Packers have as good a chance as either of their rivals to win the crown and make the playoffs if they can build on Sunday's dominating performance and string some wins together.

Unlike last season when the team went 13-3 in the regular season and had winning streaks of four and six games, the Packers haven't had a winning streak longer than two games this season.

After opening the year 2-0, the first crack at a three-game string was thwarted by Dallas, when the Cowboys turned a 13-9 lead late in the third quarter into a 27-16 final. Then two straight wins over Seattle and Indianapolis was followed by a tough overtime defeat to unbeaten Tennessee after the bye.

In all probability, the first NFC North team to put together any kind of winning streak will win the division. Neither the Vik..

Game Notes: Hunter TD A Record Setter

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 10:08:53 CST

Defensive end Jason Hunter's 54-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter was one he will surely remember since it was the first score of his career, but it also put the 2008 Packers in the franchise record books.

It was the ninth touchdown on a return by the Packers this season, the most ever in team history. The score was also the seventh touchdown by the Green Bay defense on the year, which also set a team record.

Hunter's scoring opportunity came when quarterback Kyle Orton fumbled the shotgun snap from center Olin Kreutz. The ball was accidentally kicked by defensive end Aaron Kampman, and Hunter scooped the ball up and took it the distance.

"It's like a dream come true to score an NFL touchdown," Hunter said. "We've just got some great playmakers. We've got guys that are ballhawks.

"We talk about that all of the time in meetings. They put it on the defense that every chance you get let's get an interception or a strip, and tha..

Game Review: All-Around Effort Keys Big Win

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 10:08:31 CST

Facing a near must-win situation as they looked to maintain hope of defending their NFC North crown, the Green Bay Packers produced their most dominant performance of the season with a 37-3 victory over the division rival Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field on Sunday.

The Packers improved to 5-5 on the season with the win, and with the Minnesota's loss at Tampa Bay on Sunday, moved into a three-way tie atop the NFC North with six games remaining. The victory also improved Green Bay's record in the division to 3-1.

The 34-point win over the Bears was the largest margin of victory in the series since Green Bay topped Chicago 40-3 on Dec. 11, 1994, at Lambeau Field, and the Packers' first win against Chicago at home since 2003.

Sunday's win featured a punishing rushing game that controlled the time of possession, a balanced passing attack and strong play from the defense.

"We've really played some very good football throughout the season and today we were ..

Division Now 'Up For Grabs'

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 10:09:33 CST

The NFL's long and arduous 16-game schedule was just shortened to a six-game season for the three NFC North Division contenders on Sunday.

With the Packers beating the Bears, 37-3, and the Vikings losing to the Buccaneers, 19-13, there is now a three-way tie atop the division amongst Green Bay, Chicago and Minnesota. All three are 5-5 with six games left and a home playoff game awaiting the winner.

"It's up for grabs," receiver Greg Jennings said. "We feel like we're definitely turning it around right now at the right time. We definitely feel like we have a shot, and we're going to get it done. Period. There's no other option but to get it done."

Judging by Sunday's performance, there's no reason to think the Packers can't. With nearly every head-to-head game involving two NFC North teams this season, including those against winless Detroit, coming down to the fourth quarter, Green Bay's domination of Chicago could be assigned extra weight in the ongoing an..

Ground Game Rules The Day

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 10:09:09 CST

The Packers weren't supposed to be able to run the ball against the Bears, and Chicago's vulnerability was supposed to be its pass defense.

But when Ryan Grant burst through the left side for a 35-yard run on his second carry of the game, it was a sign this game wasn't following the script.

The Bears came into Lambeau Field with the league's fourth-ranked run defense, but the Packers ran, ran and ran some more, piling up a season-high 200 yards rushing, including a season-best 145 from Grant to key a 37-3 blowout on Sunday.

"It wasn't about them. It was about us executing, playing a physical, downhill style of ball," said Grant, who averaged 5.8 yards on his 25 carries. "Playing fast and finishing what we do. They have a very good front seven, but we wanted to make them adjust to what we do."

The Packers had established more consistency on the ground the past two weeks, with Grant picking up 4.5 yards per carry against formidable run defenses in Te..

AP Game Summary: Packers Rout Bears 37-3

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 14:14:31 CST

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- Hello, Ryan Grant.

Goodbye, "Soldier Field North."

Grant finally hit his stride -- and justified his big contract -- for the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, rushing for 145 yards and a touchdown in a dominant 37-3 victory over the Chicago Bears.

The win boosts the Packers (5-5) into a three-way tie with the Bears and Minnesota Vikings atop the muddled NFC North. It has been an up-and-down season for the post-Brett Favre Packers, but Sunday's win puts them in position to win the division again.

"We're the champions," Grant said, "until somebody takes it to us."

Sunday's win also was the Packers' first victory over the Bears at Lambeau Field since Lovie Smith took over as Chicago's head coach in 2004. That's important, but Packers coach Mike McCarthy was more interested in what happens next.

"Is it going to feel good when you walk through the door? Absolutely," McCarthy said. "But it was a game that was important for..

Halftime Summary: Packers Lead Bears 17-3

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 13:28:47 CST

Running back Ryan Grant rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries as the Packers lead the Chicago Bears 17-3 at halftime at Lambeau Field.

Grant scored on a 4-yard run with just over a minute remaining to cap a seven-play, 65-yard drive to extend Green Bay's lead. Grant had an 18-yard carry down to the Chicago 4 before scoring on the next play. Wide receiver James Jones had an 18-yard reception on third down to keep the drive alive.

The Packers got on the board first late in the first quarter with an eight-play, 73-yard drive that was capped off with a 3-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Aaron Rodgers to wide receiver Greg Jennings. Rodgers found wide receiver Donald Driver three times for 39 yards on the drive, and connected with wide receiver Jordy Nelson for a 19-yard gain as he went 6-of-6 for 68 yards on the possession.

Chicago cut the lead to 7-3 with a 35-yard field goal from Robbie Gould early in the second quarter. Running back Matt For..

Notebook: O-Line Eyes Redemption

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 10:01:24 CST

The Green Bay Packers' offensive linemen haven't hidden from the fact that they had their worst game of the season in terms of pass protection last Sunday.

Aaron Rodgers was sacked four times and hit on at least a handful of other plays. The linemen weren't pleased with their performance as a whole, and the only way to erase it completely is to get back out there and prove it was just a bad day at the office.

"I think you just have to go back to work," veteran offensive tackle Mark Tauscher said. "It was a tough week. There's no question. We didn't play well as a unit, and we didn't give ourselves a chance to win on the offensive side of the ball.

"So you have to get back to work, not panic and start doubting yourself. You have to play with confidence and you build that confidence throughout the week in your preparation. I think we're really looking forward to getting back out there on Sunday. We want to show some improvement and do things a lot better obvi..

Pettway Prepared For Expanded Role

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:59:35 CST

In his five games with Green Bay this season, defensive end Kenny Pettway has become one of the team's core players on special teams, but now he is looking to make more of an impact in a pass-rushing role.

Last week at Minnesota, Pettway got five snaps at right defensive end in third-down situations, his most action there outside of the Oct. 19 game vs. Indianapolis. Rookie defensive end Jeremy Thompson, who got the starting nod the last three games on the right side, is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game vs. Chicago, which would likely move Michael Montgomery into a starting spot with Pettway potentially getting more time on third downs.

"Pettway has definitely been getting a lot more work there, and I know the coaches are getting a lot more comfortable with him and his ability to attack the edge and so forth and just understanding our scheme," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "He's improved each week. He's done a very nice job of jumping in on special teams, and I..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:09:21 CST

Green Bay Packers guard Daryn Colledge takes fans to locations throughout Lambeau Field, interviewing his teammates one-on-one in 'The Colledge Experience.' Fans are able to participate in the webisodes by submitting questions for Colledge to ask his guests of the week. Topics covered on the program will range from personal to football, and anything else fans come up with.

In last week's episode, Colledge grilled safety Nick Collins on the Lambeau Field basketball court. Collins discussed the transition from a small school to the NFL, his penchant for fishing, and his Pro Bowl caliber 2008 season.

This week, 'The Colledge Experience' continues on the defensive front with defensive tackle Colin Cole. Interviewed in the Lambeau Field players' lounge, Cole discusses playing with Aaron Kampman at Iowa, his consulting company, and takes questions from the fans.

Check back next Friday for a brand new webisode of 'The Colledge Experience!'

Ask A Quest..

Notebook: Ground Game Looking To Bust Big Play

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:56:15 CST
Now that the Packers' running game has found some legitimate traction, with Ryan Grant averaging 4.5 yards per carry over the past two games, there's one obvious next step in its progression.
"I think what we're lacking still is the big play," right tackle Mark Tauscher said. "We haven't had the 30-, 40-yard run. We've improved. I think we've done a better job getting Ryan to the second level and getting him 10-, 12-yard runs. But consistently, we haven't had the big home run, and that's the thing that can demoralize a defense."

Grant was a serious big-play threat after taking over as the feature back in the second half of last season, breaking off four runs of 30-plus yards, plus another in the postseason.

But this year, since a 57-yarder in the season opener against Minnesota, his long run is just 17 yards. The past two weeks, however, he's posted 161 yards on 36 carries and gotten closer and closer to breaking big runs, with six gains of at least 10 yards (th..

Turnovers Have Provided Rivalry Edge For Bears

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:57:28 CST
As Head Coach Mike McCarthy has discussed several times, the Packers have a "ball security" period during every practice, when offensive players work on drills to protect the football and defensive players focus on taking it away.

That practice period may carry no higher importance than it does this week with the Chicago Bears coming to town.

While turnovers are often a key barometer in the win-loss equation, they seem to be the deciding factor almost without fail against the Bears, a defense that prides itself on turnovers - no matter where they're ranked in other defensive categories - and that's tied for the league lead in takeaways once again this season with 20.

"That's something we harp on quite a bit," Bears head coach Lovie Smith said. "We put an emphasis on it. Our defensive guys do a great job of trying to get the ball away. It's about doing whatever you can to either score points or get the ball back for your offense as soon as you can."

Notebook: Rodgers Looks To Rebound

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:52:37 CST
Like any first-year quarterback, it was expected that there would be some bumps in the road for Aaron Rodgers in his first season as the Packers' starter. After back-to-back losses on the road to Tennessee and Minnesota, Rodgers will look to rebound against the Chicago Bears in a crucial divisional matchup on Sunday at Lambeau Field.

After posting quarterback ratings of 100-plus in five of his first seven games this season, Rodgers has had his struggles the past two weeks, throwing just one touchdown pass as he posted his two lowest passer ratings outside of Week 4 at Tampa Bay.

Rodgers completed 65.6 percent of his passes the first seven games, but saw that drop to 55.6 combined against the Titans and the Vikings. Part of that was due to the increased pressure he was under as Rodgers was sacked four times in each of those contests. His longest completion against Minnesota on Sunday was a 19-yarder to Donald Driver and the Packers converted just one of 11 third-down..

Hawk Gets Bulk Of Work In Middle

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:50:25 CST
The Packers have a few different options for how to go about replacing middle linebacker Nick Barnett for this Sunday's game, but one option apparently received the most attention on Wednesday.

During the jog-through portion of practice that was open to the media, A.J. Hawk lined up in Barnett's middle linebacker spot with Brandon Chillar working with the first unit at Hawk's usual weak-side position. Brady Poppinga remained in his normal strong-side spot.

But the defense is preparing for other scenarios as well. Head Coach Mike McCarthy said all the linebackers, including Desmond Bishop - who replaced Barnett during the second half last Sunday after Barnett tore the ACL in his knee, ending his season - are being double-trained at the inside and outside spots this week to give the unit the most flexibility for any adjustments that are needed.

"A.J. is getting a lot of work there, and we just have to be ready just to be able to move in and out of our differe..

Packers Shutting Down Top Wideouts

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:21:36 CST
The Green Bay Packers' secondary has garnered a lot of attention this season, and rightly so, for its league-leading 16 interceptions, six of which have been returned for touchdowns.

But nearly as important statistically to the pass defense's success has been the secondary's ability to render as non-factors several top receivers from the opposing teams.

In seven of nine games this season, the opponent's No. 1 receiver has had little to no impact on the game, and that's as big a reason as any for Green Bay's No. 3 league ranking in passing yards allowed.

"There are some quality people in this league in the receiving department," secondary coach Kurt Schottenheimer said. "It's a challenge and our guys meet the challenge, but we recognize the skills they present as well."

The only two receivers to have big games against the Packers this season have been Detroit's Calvin Johnson (six catches, 129 yards, two TDs in Week 2) and Atlanta's Roddy White (eig..

Donation Request Process Now Online

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:41:30 CST
The Green Bay Packers' community outreach department has a new online process for requesting in-kind donations from the Packers.

Implemented this week, the new system will allow for a more efficient and consistent process, both for the Packers and for the organizations and individuals requesting items. The Packers annually receive thousands of requests for donations of items to be used in fundraising efforts. In 2007, the Packers assisted more than 8,000 charities with donated items that raised approximately $2.5 million.

The completely online process provides a Web page with entry areas for all the required information from the applicant, which eliminates missing information and subsequent delays in the process. An account is set up with the applicant's e-mail address, which is then utilized for automatic correspondence regarding submission, a decision on the request and then follow-up after the event.

"We're excited to be able to offer this new resource,"..

Notebook: Barnett Out For Season

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:54:46 CST
Starting middle linebacker Nick Barnett has a torn knee ligament and is out for the season, Head Coach Mike McCarthy announced during his Monday press conference.

Barnett injured his knee on the opening series of the second half of Sunday's game against the Vikings at the Metrodome. Attempting to make a tackle on running back Adrian Peterson, Barnett's leg stuck awkwardly in the turf as he tried to cut back, and he did not return to the game.

McCarthy said Barnett would need surgery, but that hasn't been scheduled yet. He didn't get into a timetable for Barnett's rehab and return to football, because the surgery needs to take place before that can start to be formulated.

"He's very disappointed," McCarthy said. "It's unfortunate, but we need to have the other guys step up."

Those other guys could be a few different options. Second-year pro Desmond Bishop filled in for Barnett for the rest of Sunday's game and would be the most natural fit position-..

Interceptions Key Green Bay's Scoring

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 10:05:57 CST
MINNEAPOLIS - The Packers lead the NFL with 16 interceptions this season, all from their secondary, and their three interceptions on Sunday against the Vikings at the Metrodome were crucial as they helped an offense that struggled to move the ball consistently in Sunday's loss.

It was the third time this season the Packers have posted three interceptions in a game, and Green Bay also limited Minnesota's wide receivers to just four catches for 27 yards on the afternoon, including none from Bernard Berrian. He entered Sunday's game with 100-yard receiving games in three of the last four contests, and had scored touchdowns in four straight games.

With the Packers trailing 7-0 in the first quarter and the offense posting their second straight three-and-out to start the game, cornerback Charles Woodson intercepted quarterback Gus Frerotte's pass over the middle intended for wide receiver Bobby Wade and returned the pick to the Minnesota 48.

The Packers utilized..

Game Review: Another Tough Loss At The Wire

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 10:04:42 CST
MINNEAPOLIS - For the second straight week, what could have been an immensely uplifting road win turned into a heartbreaking defeat in the final moments of a tooth-and-nail ballgame.

This one came against NFC North rival Minnesota, and when Mason Crosby's 52-yard field goal try with just 26 seconds left slid wide right, it allowed the Vikings to hang on for a 28-27 decision over the Packers in front of a bi-partisan crowd of 63,845 at the Metrodome.

The loss, coming one week after an overtime defeat to unbeaten Tennessee, dropped the Packers to 4-5 and leaves the team at a crossroads heading into next week's home game against another arch-rival, the Chicago Bears. The good news is that the Bears' loss to those same Titans on Sunday kept the Packers just one game out of the NFC North lead. But the bad news is Green Bay is now behind two teams, the Bears and Vikings, who are tied atop the division at 5-4.

"We just have to dig deeper," safety Nick Collins said..

Game Notes: Driver's Streak Sets Record

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 10:04:59 CST
MINNEAPOLIS - It doesn't mean much to him after such a tough loss, but someday receiver Donald Driver will look back proudly on the record he set Sunday at the Metrodome.

Driver broke the franchise record for most consecutive games with a pass reception with his 11-yard grab to help set up a touchdown in the first quarter.

He caught a quick slant from quarterback Aaron Rodgers that he took to the Minnesota 1-yard line with just under 5 minutes left in the opening quarter, his 104th straight regular-season game with a catch to break Sterling Sharpe's previous team mark of 103.

Ryan Grant scored for the Packers on the next snap.

Including playoffs, Driver's consecutive games streak with a reception is 109, but that actually overlaps his regular-season streak. The 104-game string began with the 2001 regular-season finale against the New York Giants, but two games later in the NFC Divisional playoffs, Driver did not have a catch against St. Louis.
..

Blackmon And Bishop Bounce Back

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 10:05:23 CST
MINNEAPOLIS - Cornerback/returner Will Blackmon and linebacker Desmond Bishop both had plays on Sunday that they surely wished they could have back, but both players were able to redeem themselves with key plays in the second half of Sunday's loss to the Vikings.

Blackmon, who entered Sunday's game ranked third in the NFC with a 10.9-yard punt return average, fielded a 59-yard punt from Chris Kluwe a yard deep in the end zone rather than let the ball go for a touchback. His return went for 10 yards, pinning the Packers at their own 9.

"Basically I was backing up slow, so I didn't realize how much room I was actually covering," Blackmon said. "Usually the signs are if it's a good punt and you have plenty of room, you're pretty much all set. Being that I got tackled, it wasn't a smart decision. If I broke it, it would have been a good one."

As Blackmon came off the field, he was greeted by Head Coach Mike McCarthy, who clearly wasn't pleased with Blackmon's d..

AP Game Summary: Packers Fall To Vikings 28-27

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 15:30:07 CST
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Adrian Peterson was fired up as always, so determined to beat Green Bay he stormed to the sideline at one point in the fourth quarter with a demeanor that could be described, politely, as angry.

Success for Minnesota's star running back, though, came as usual through patience.

Peterson rushed for 192 yards and reached across the goal line with 2:22 left to lift the Vikings to a 28-27 victory on Sunday that ended their five-game losing streak to the Packers.

Though he set an NFL record with 296 yards in one game during his rookie season, Peterson acknowledged this as the most satisfying performance of his brief career.

"That's what it's all about. We came in, knew it was going to be a dogfight, and we pulled it out," Peterson said.

Mason Crosby's 52-yard field goal attempt in the closing seconds was just wide, helping the Vikings (5-4) pull into a first-place tie with the Chicago Bears. Green Bay (4-5) is one game back ..

Packers Trail Vikings 14-10 At Halftime

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 13:10:55 CST
Interceptions by Green Bay's defense set up both of the Packers' scores in the first half, but the Packers trail 14-10 at halftime to the Vikings at the Metrodome.

After Green Bay's offense went three-and-out on their first two possessions, they benefited from good field position courtesy of their defense. Trailing 7-0, cornerback Charles Woodson picked off Gus Frerotte's pass over the middle intended for wide receiver Bobby Wade and returned it nine yards to the Minnesota 48.

Grant started off the next drive with a 13-yard gain, and on a third down, Rodgers hit wide receiver Greg Jennings for a 14-yard gain. Jennings fumbled at the end of the play, but fellow wide receiver Donald Driver recovered the ball. Rodgers then found Driver on a slant for an 11-yard gain, and Grant took it in from one yard on the next play to tie the game at 7.

Minnesota got on the board on their first drive, taking over at Green Bay's 39 after a 20-yard punt return from cornerback..

Colledge Becoming More Consistent

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 09:57:50 CST
The one thing offensive lineman Daryn Colledge publicly made known he's been striving for since coming to Green Bay as a second-round draft choice in 2006 - even dating back to a training camp diary he did for Packers.com that rookie summer - he may finally have found.

Consistency.

The 6-foot-4, 308-pounder had the athletic ability from the day he arrived. He's always had the intelligence. Those attributes allowed him to make the switch from collegiate left tackle at Boise State to left guard in the pros.

But that transition, coupled with the jump from the Western Athletic Conference to the NFL, produced the expected rough spots and uneven play many young players experience.

Now halfway through his third year, Colledge appears to have smoothed out some of that unevenness. Unlike the last two years, he hasn't had his job opened up to competition by the coaches at midseason..

Notebook: Next Two Games Loom Large For Division Title Hopes

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 09:58:50 CST
When the 2008 regular season comes to an end, the Packers will likely look at their back-to-back games at Minnesota and vs. Chicago the next two weeks as a crucial stretch that helped determine the outcome of the NFC North race.

The Packers and Vikings enter Sunday's matchup tied for second in the division at 4-4, trailing the Chicago Bears (5-3) by one game with half the season remaining. Green Bay heads to Minnesota with two divisional wins in its pocket after opening up the '08 campaign with victories against the Vikings and at Detroit.

"This game is the most important game this year so far," defensive tackle Ryan Pickett said. "We have to win this if we are going to be competitive in our division. We want to win our division; we definitely have to win this game."

During Head Coach Mike McCarthy's first two years as head coach, the Packers have come on strong the second half of the season, going 13-5 (.722) in the final two months, including an 8-1 mark ..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:59:27 CST
Green Bay Packers guard Daryn Colledge takes fans to locations throughout Lambeau Field, interviewing his teammates one-on-one in 'The Colledge Experience.' Fans are able to participate in the webisodes by submitting questions for Colledge to ask his guests of the week. Topics covered on the program will range from personal to football, and anything else fans come up with.

In last week's episode, Colledge grilled quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the Lambeau Field golf simulator room. Rodgers talked about the transition from backup to starter, his karaoke skills, and his Halloween costume plans.

This week, 'The Colledge Experience' turns its attention to the defense with safety Nick Collins. Interviewed on the Lambeau Field basketball court, Collins discusses the transition from a small school to the NFL, his penchant for fishing, and his Pro Bowl caliber 2008 season.

Check back next Friday for a brand new webisode of 'The Colledge Experience!'

Ask ..

Packers Fan Memories

Packers Fan Memories — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:03:56 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 family traditions, overtime thrills, and celebrating wins over the Vikings.

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

Notebook: Overall Health Benefits Entire Team

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:54:48 CST
The benefits of having a healthy football team go beyond just the game on Sunday.

The Packers have a season-low four players on this week's injury report and two of them - linebacker Desmond Bishop (hamstring) and tackle Chad Clifton (knees) - were full participants in practice on Thursday.

That level of participation by essentially the full squad not only helps the team prepare better for its upcoming opponent, but it allows the snaps to be shared appropriately during practice and it provides a chance for players to sharpen their skills while staying fresh during the week.

"It really gives you the opportunity for your whole football team to improve," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "You've got every player on your roster throughout, practice squad included, everybody is playing the position they're supposed to be playing. I just think that helps so much because your 'look' squads (scout teams) are better, and the players have the opportunity to continue to ..

Special Teams Aim To Be Just That On Sunday

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:53:44 CST
Green Bay's special teams played a significant role in the season-opening win over the Minnesota Vikings, and it could very well factor in once again in a rivalry that has been tightly contested over the past several years.

In the Packers' win over Minnesota in Week 1 at Lambeau Field, cornerback Will Blackmon fielded punter Chris Kluwe's punt at Green Bay's own 24-yard line midway through the third quarter. He took the low kick down the left sideline, narrowly staying in bounds, before cutting across the field and running down the opposite sideline 76 yards for the score.

The touchdown from Blackmon, which helped him earn NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors, put Green Bay up 17-6, a lead they never relinquished on their way to a 24-19 win.

Blackmon said he felt the return sent a message to teams about not only his big-play capabilities, but also the abilities of Green Bay's entire punt return unit, which has helped spring him for three retur..

Vikings Have Different Look This Time Around

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 09:48:10 CST
In a long NFL season, every team changes at least a little bit from the opening game to the latter stages of the year, and this Sunday the Minnesota Vikings will look about as different as a team can from the one the Packers defeated back in Week 1.

For starters, the Vikings changed quarterbacks after an 0-2 start, benching youngster Tarvaris Jackson and going with veteran Gus Frerotte. While the offense hasn't changed from its run-first mentality with Pro Bowl back Adrian Peterson, Frerotte has brought a greater downfield threat to the passing game that the Vikings were lacking with Jackson.

Head Coach Mike McCarthy termed it a "commitment to the vertical game" he hasn't seen from the Vikings in the past, and it's a key reason Minnesota has scored 69 points in its last two games.

"They're not the one-dimensional team maybe like they were before," defensive tackle Ryan Pickett said. "They're making big plays down the field with the pass. It's a different Mi..

Notebook: Defense Looks To Keep Peterson Grounded

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 09:49:19 CST
The Achilles heel for Green Bay's run defense this season has been allowing explosive plays, and this weekend it will face one of the league's top big-play rushing threats in Minnesota's second-year running back Adrian Peterson.

Peterson enters Sunday as the No. 2 rusher in the league with 823 yards on 176 carries (4.7 avg.), trailing only Washington's Clinton Portis (995 yards). He has six touchdowns and five 100-yard rushing games, including 103 yards against Green Bay in the Packers' season-opening 24-19 win over the Vikings.

"His vision I think is the biggest part of his weaponry," linebacker Nick Barnett said. "He's able to run and be able to see when the gaps are going to open before they open. He obviously has the speed, the size, the power, so with the vision it makes him a dangerous back to defend."

The Packers defense has had some success containing Peterson, giving up just 45 yards on 11 carries in last November's 34-0 win over the Vikings at La..

Returns of Montgomery, Harrell Bolster D-Line

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:27:08 CST
On the Green Bay Packers' defensive line, it's never about just one guy's performance.

But the efforts of end Michael Montgomery and tackle Justin Harrell on Sunday in Tennessee in their returns from injury are hopefully just a start for both players as they work to make the defensive line stronger as a whole.

Montgomery, who missed the previous two games with an ankle injury and who has been dogged by knee injuries at other times over the past three years, turned in probably the best game of his career against the Titans.

After reviewing the film, the coaching staff credited Montgomery with 15 total tackles, including 11 solo. That's not only the most by a defensive lineman this season, but the most in one game by any Green Bay defensive player in 2008.

Montgomery's day included a sack of Kerry Collins for a loss of 7 yards and two other tackles for no gain, one of them shared with linemate Ryan Pickett. He also dropped back into coverage on one p..

Notebook: Division Rivalries Around The Corner

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:34:44 CST
There's never any time to dwell on a tough loss in the NFL, and this is certainly not the time to do so for the Green Bay Packers.

Sunday's hard-fought 19-16 overtime defeat to unbeaten Tennessee must be made ancient history in a hurry as the Packers have two critical NFC North Division contests coming up the next two weeks.

The team sits at 4-4, tied for second place in the division with the Minnesota Vikings, one game behind the 5-3 Chicago Bears. With games against those two teams the next two weeks, beginning this Sunday in Minneapolis, the bottom line is this - even at .500 at the midway point, the Packers can take over first place in the NFC North with wins in their next two games.

"We're aware of the standings and where we are in the standings," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "I can't speak for the players. I'm sure they're well aware of what everybody's record is, everything is so publicized.

"But we're more in tune with what our record is,..

Offensive Line Does Some Shuffling

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 11:18:11 CST
NASHVILLE - After battling injuries early this season and in the preseason, Green Bay's offensive line regained some stability the last four games as they opened with the same five players. On Sunday they were forced to adjust on short notice in Tennessee when starting left tackle Chad Clifton fell ill Sunday morning.

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Clifton had a reaction to some medication, and Daryn Colledge, who started the first seven games at left guard, moved over to take Clifton's spot. Guard Jason Spitz, who has played primarily right guard this season, slid over to the opposite side to replace Colledge.

Rookie Josh Sitton, who was making a push for the starting right guard spot in training camp before sustaining a knee injury in the preseason at Denver, got his first NFL start there in Spitz's place.

Colledge, making his first start at left tackle since Oct. 22, 2006, in Miami, said he got the word he would be starting there about 30 minutes before ..

Game Review: Packers Fall Short In Disappointing Overtime Loss

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 11:17:44 CST
NASHVILLE - Sunday afternoon the Packers had an opportunity to knock off the Tennessee Titans from their perch as the NFL's lone unbeaten team, but it was their struggles on offense in the red zone and the inability to come up with one more defensive stop when they needed it most that cost the Packers in a 19-16 overtime loss at Tennessee.

The loss dropped the Packers to 4-4 on the season, one game behind the division-leading Chicago Bears (5-3), who came back from a 23-13 halftime deficit to beat Detroit 27-23 on Sunday. The Minnesota Vikings (4-4), who beat Houston on Sunday, are tied with Green Bay as the Packers now look ahead to a trip to Minnesota next weekend.

"We didn't perform well enough at the end to win the game," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "I thought it was a hard-fought football game. They made some plays in the two-minute drill for the first attempt. The second attempt we didn't stop the run."

The first attempt was Titans kicker Rob Biron..

Game Notes: Driver Etches Name In Record Book

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 11:17:10 CST
NASHVILLE - Wide receiver Donald Driver tied former receiver Sterling Sharpe's record for consecutive games with a catch in style Sunday when he caught a five-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the second quarter.

The catch gave him 103 straight games with a reception. Driver now has a chance to break Sharpe's record next Sunday when the Packers travel to the Metrodome to take on the division rival Minnesota Vikings.

Driver had his best performance of the season Sunday, posting his first 100-yard game in '08 as he led the team with seven catches for 136 yards. The touchdown catch gave him three on the season, topping his total of two in 2007 with half the season left.

"It starts with him," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "It really does as far as the wide receiver group. He sets the tempo for those guys and leads by example.

"He practices all of the time regardless. He just plays with incredible passion. I just can't say enough g..

AP Game Summary: Packers Fall To Titans 19-16 In OT

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 14:58:32 CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Rob Bironas wanted a chance at redemption.

The Tennessee Titans gave it to their All-Pro kicker, who made sure their run as the NFL's lone unbeaten team continues for another week.

Bironas kicked a 41-yard field goal with 9:36 to go in overtime that kept the Titans perfect with a 19-16 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. The kicker had a chance to win in regulation, but banged a 47-yarder off the upright, prompting him to yank his facemask down in anger at himself.

"I was hoping for exactly what happened," Bironas said. "We'd win the toss and get another shot at it. I don't miss many, so I definitely wanted another shot at it to put us in the lead and go home with the victory, 8-0."

The Titans (8-0) won the toss and drove 55 yards in 10 plays to give Bironas another chance. Going out on third-and-2, he swung through his fourth field goal that started the celebration as the Titans matched a franchise record by winning t..