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Green Bay Man Wins Ariens Sno-Thro from Packers Pro Shop

Aaron Popkey, Packers.com — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:13:02 CST

Larry Leiterman has a new Ariens Sno-Thro to help combat this winter's record snowfall.

The Green Bay man was the winner of one of two Ariens Sno-Thros that were given away as part of a winter weather promotion at the Packers Pro Shop that ran from Dec. 26-29.

Leiterman was at Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions and saw the entry box at a Pro Shop Extra Points kiosk on the Club Level in Lambeau Field. He took a couple of minutes to fill out the form.

"So I signed up, and that's it," a delighted Leiterman said Wednesday afternoon as he picked up his new Ariens 624E Sno-Thro at the Pro Shop. "I was amazed. I just couldn't believe it."

According to Leiterman, he won't be the only one benefiting from the new machine.

"Our neighbor across the street fell down and hurt his shoulder, so we've been blowing out his driveway the last couple weeks. He'll appreciate it, too."

The timing works well, as the new machine will replace the slig..

Notebook: O-Line Headed In Right Direction

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:13:06 CST

It's impossible to say what the Green Bay Packers' offensive line is going to look like in 2009, but Head Coach Mike McCarthy is without a doubt excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

There is some uncertainty regarding the overall health of the group, as McCarthy confirmed on Wednesday that left tackle Chad Clifton would have a "clean-out procedure" done on one if not both knees, and that right tackle Mark Tauscher's knee surgery would be taking place sometime in the first half of January.

Also, center Scott Wells is set to undergo shoulder surgery this offseason.

But the young talent that continues to rise in the shadow of the veterans bodes well for both the unit's depth and perhaps the ability to anchor players down into set positions, barring the injuries that led to another year of shuffling and re-shuffling up front.

Three draft choices from 2006 - Daryn Colledge, Jason Spitz and Tony Moll - will go into their fourth seasons with a ..

McCarthy: Disappointing Season Is Under Full Review

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:11:26 CST

In his season-ending press conference on Wednesday, Head Coach Mike McCarthy did not shy away from taking responsibility for the Packers' disappointing 6-10 season, and he emphasized that several key elements - the coaching staff, schemes, and player leadership - are under detailed evaluation as he sets the team's course for 2009.

"It's not what we were looking for," McCarthy said of the playoff-less season that included a five-game losing streak over the final month and a half. "It's not what we prepared for. I'm not satisfied, and I'll start from the top down. It's evaluation time right now. We'll look at every aspect of our program."

Amidst media speculation surrounding the future of two of his top assistants, defensive coordinator Bob Sanders and special teams coordinator Mike Stock, McCarthy said no decisions on the coaching staff have been made during his 35-minute question-and-answer session with reporters.

McCarthy conducted exit interviews with all..

Tauscher Voted Ed Block Courage Award Winner

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:32:26 CST

Offensive tackle Mark Tauscher saw his season end on Dec. 7 with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, but that didn't stop his teammates from recognizing his efforts in 2008.

Tauscher recently was voted by his teammates as this year's Ed Block Courage Award winner, an award given annually to one member of each NFL team for displaying commitments to the principles of courage and sportsmanship while serving as inspirations in their locker rooms.

"It's as good an award as you can get," Tauscher said. "When you have the respect of your peers, especially your teammates, you really value those opinions, so it's something I take a lot of pride in."

Tauscher, a nine-year veteran, is known as a player in the Green Bay locker room who will get himself onto the practice field as well as the game field no matter what minor bumps and bruises might ail him. This year most notably he returned to the field for the Nov. 30 game against Carolina just six days ..

The Day After: Close Not Good Enough

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 15:55:12 CST

As the Green Bay Packers cleaned out their lockers on Monday and reflected a bit on the 6-10 season that ended the day before, it was rather easy for them to explain the biggest difference between this year and last, the one that ended an overtime away from a trip to the Super Bowl.

It was the team's performance in close games.

The Packers lost seven games in 2008 by four points or less, including four in a row following Thanksgiving that knocked them out of the NFC playoff chase.

"Ten-and-six made the playoffs this year," quarterback Aaron Rodgers said. "I could definitely pick out four games where we were in the game, late in the game, and had a chance to win."

Anyone certainly could. Rodgers felt the two toughest losses were the last-second road defeats to NFC North rivals Minnesota and Chicago. The Packers lost 28-27 at the Metrodome on a missed 52-yard field goal try in the final minute on Nov. 9, and they lost 20-17 in overtime at Soldier Fie..

Record-Setting Day For Offensive Players

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 15:45:26 CST

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers' career-long 71-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Donald Driver midway through the fourth quarter couldn't have come at a better time as the Packers were holding onto just a three-point lead, and the play also put both players into the record books.

For Rodgers, it put him over the 4,000-yard mark in his first season as the starting quarterback as he finished 2008 with 4,038 passing yards. The accomplishment places him in some pretty elite company as he became just the second player in NFL history to top the 4,000-yard plateau in the season in which he made his first start, joining Arizona's Kurt Warner, who passed for 4,353 yards with St. Louis in his MVP season of 1999.

Driver went over the 1,000-yard mark with the catch to become the first player in team history to post six seasons of 1,000 yards or more receiving in a career. It was also his fifth straight 1,000-yard season, extending his franchise record, as he finished the year wit..

Ground Game Contributes Big In Win

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 15:45:07 CST

The Packers had their most productive offensive day of the season on Sunday with 484 total yards, and it included a season-best 211 yards on the ground as the Packers accomplished a feat they have only done twice since 1985.

Running backs Ryan Grant and DeShawn Wynn each rushed for 106 yards, becoming only the second Packers tandem to post 100 yards rushing in the same game. It was a career high for Wynn and the duo helped Green Bay pile up 211 yards on 27 carries (7.8 avg.) for the afternoon.

The last time Green Bay had two 100-yard rushers in the same game was during Head Coach Mike McCarthy's first season at the helm when running backs Ahman Green (106) and Vernand Morency (101) accomplished the feat vs. Arizona on Oct. 29, 2006. Prior to that, the last game the Packers had with two 100-yard rushers came on Dec. 1, 1985, vs. Tampa Bay when Eddie Lee Ivery (109) and Gerry Ellis (101) each topped the 100-yard mark.

The Packers got their running game on tra..

Game Notes: Finley Finally Finds End Zone

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 15:44:41 CST

The Packers tried it at Tennessee and again at Jacksonville without success. But the third time running a short fade at the goal line was the charm for rookie tight end Jermichael Finley.

Finley's 3-yard TD reception over safety Daniel Bullocks late in the first quarter on Sunday was his first NFL score, and it came on the same fade pattern that had failed twice on the road this season. Both times previously, Aaron Rodgers' throw looked to be in good shape but Finley had either mis-timed his jump or not made the proper adjustment to the ball.

This time it worked smoothly, and on the Packers' next possession on Sunday Finley caught another fade pass down the left sideline for 26 yards. That play was a carbon copy of a 35-yard reception Finley made last Monday night in Chicago, as the rookie finished an up-and-down season showing on the game field the kind of talent and production he often showed in practice.

"Jermichael Finley just keeps getting better every..

Game Review: Victory Ends Difficult Season

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 15:43:42 CST

There really are no consolation prizes in the NFL, but the Packers at least accomplished two things by beating the Detroit Lions 31-21 on Sunday at Lambeau Field.

They put an end to their own five-game losing streak and avoided entering 2009 without a win since mid-November, which seemed unthinkable at the time the Packers were 5-5 and tied for first place in the NFC North.

They also avoided becoming the only team to lose to the Lions this season, as Detroit became the league's first 0-16 team.

But as much as the Green Bay players felt for the plight of their winless foes, the Packers' effort in front of 70,141 fans was more about ending their own losing skid than making history, either way, as part of their division rival's ignominious streak.

"The truth of the matter, it was never about the Detroit Lions," offensive lineman Daryn Colledge said. "This team had to get a win. This team needed to be 6-10. We needed to have some momentum going into th..

AP Game Summary: Packers Top Lions 31-21 In Season Finale

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 09:27:29 CST

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- The Detroit Lions own a distinction no team wants: worst in NFL history.

Facing one last chance to avoid their dubious destiny, the Lions lost Sunday's season finale to the Green Bay Packers 31-21 to complete the league's first 0-16 season. The 1976 expansion Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-14) were the last NFL team to complete a season without a victory.

It didn't come without a fight. After falling behind 24-14 midway through the fourth quarter, Kevin Smith's 9-yard touchdown run put Detroit back within a field goal.

But Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers responded with a 71-yard touchdown pass to Donald Driver and the Lions' Dan Orlovsky threw an interception on fourth-and-27 with 3 minutes left, dooming Detroit to futility of historic proportion.

"No competitor wants to go through something like this," said Lions coach Rod Marinelli, who declined to discuss his future with the team. "This is not fun to go through, obviously. But ther..

Packers Lead Lions 14-7 At Halftime

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 11:56:10 CST

The Packers have rushed for 134 yards in the first half on their way to a 14-7 halftime lead over Detroit on Sunday at Lambeau Field.

On Green Bay's second possession of the game, running back DeShawn Wynn took a pitch on third down 73 yards down the right sideline for a touchdown, getting help from blocks by tackle Daryn Colledge and wide receiver Donald Driver. It was the longest rush of Wynn's career and also the longest by the Packers this season.

Later in the quarter, Lions quarterback Dan Orlovsky overthrew wide receiver Calvin Johnson on a slant at the Green Bay 36 and the ball was picked off by cornerback Charles Woodson, who returned the pick 23 yards to the Detroit 41.

The Packers took advantage of the field position with a six-play scoring drive that was capped off with a 3-yard touchdown pass from Rodgers to tight end Jermichael Finley in the back of the end zone, Finley's first career score. Driver had a 16-yard reception on the drive and runni..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 09:25:42 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 hit the offensive line again with tackle Tony Moll. Interviewed in the visitors' locker room, Moll discussed his transition from tight end to tackle, fishing in Wisconsin, and his dog's tricks.

In this week's season finale, 'The Colledge Experience' comes full circle, welcoming back its first guest, guard/center Jason Spitz. Interviewed on the North Balcony of the Lambeau Field Atrium club level, Spitz talks about his offseason plans, David Lee Roth, and his favorite college football game memory.

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Notebook: Wynn Stepping Up As Opportunity Arrives

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:30:07 CST

Like a lot of young players, running back DeShawn Wynn has had some ups and downs during his first two seasons, starting four games as a rookie in '07 before being released in training camp and landing on the practice squad this year.

After not getting many opportunities this season since being signed back to the active roster, Wynn made his most significant contribution last Monday at Chicago and looks to build on that on Sunday vs. Detroit.

With Brandon Jackson sidelined against the Bears because of a wrist injury, Wynn moved into Jackson's third-down role and is expected to do so again vs. Detroit with Jackson listed as doubtful for Sunday.

"DeShawn Wynn, he hasn't had a lot of opportunities this year, but when he has, I really like the way he's stepped up, particularly on special teams," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "He's doing some things he hasn't done a lot of in the past. He works extremely hard.

"Also with the opponent squad, a lot of t..

WRs Jennings, Johnson Set To Cap Strong Years

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:29:12 CST

It's not a label anyone wants. Sort of like the "best golfer never to win a major."

But on Sunday at Lambeau Field, probably the two best receivers who aren't going to the Pro Bowl will be putting their tremendous skills on display for the last time in 2008.

Green Bay's Greg Jennings and Detroit's Calvin Johnson have put together dynamite seasons that, in terms of Pro Bowl recognition, weren't quite good enough in a year loaded with top receiving performances in the NFC.

Jennings and Johnson have enjoyed Pro Bowl-caliber years, no doubt, but to say they were snubbed would mean one or more of the four NFC selections - Arizona's Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, Carolina's Steve Smith and Atlanta's Roddy White - don't deserve to go. And that argument is tough to make.

White, Fitzgerald and Smith rank 1-2-3 in the NFC in receiving yards (1,334-1,301-1,287), with Fitzgerald first in receptions (91), while Boldin leads in touchdown catches (11).
..

Plenty Of Close Calls For Lions, Too

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 15:24:04 CST

If Sunday's game between the Packers and the Lions comes down to the final couple of minutes, something's gonna have to give.

As the Packers and their fans well know, they've lost seven games this season by four points or less, including the last four in a row. Meanwhile the Lions have been not only competitive but close in far more games than their 0-15 record would suggest.

They've lost five times by a touchdown or less this season, including a string of four straight from Weeks 6-9. They've also had second-half leads more often than expected for a winless team.

They have suffered through their share of blowouts, too, including last week in their home finale, a 42-7 loss to New Orleans. But there's no mistaking that many times this season, the Lions have been as close to getting that first win as the Packers have been to breaking their current five-game losing streak.

"It's a crazy game," Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers said, describing the d..

Notebook: Changes On The Offensive Line For Sunday

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:19:47 CST

The Packers' starting offensive line will have its fifth different look this season with left guard Daryn Colledge shifting over to right tackle, Josh Sitton moving into the starting lineup at right guard, and guard Jason Spitz sliding over to the left side.

Tony Moll, who started the last two games at right tackle in place of an injured Mark Tauscher, will shift to a backup role. Head Coach Mike McCarthy informed the players of the changes on Wednesday morning, and emphasized that the decision was made to give the team the best chance to beat the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

"If you watch the way we rep those guys, we have probably too many revolving chairs in the offensive line and that is something we can talk about it in the offseason," McCarthy said. "It is a rotation that we have worked. It's a rotation, if you go back to the preseason, Josh Sitton was the starting guard when we started the season. That potential, that possibility has always been there since he ha..

Lions' Record Not Packers' Concern

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:18:52 CST

For the first time during the Packers' current five-game losing streak, there is actually more outside attention being paid this week to the losing streak their opponent is on, with Detroit coming into the regular-season finale at 0-15.

But the Green Bay players insist they're as focused as ever on fixing their own shortcomings, not on the prospects of the Lions making history as the league's first 0-16 team, or the possibility of Detroit avoiding that history at the expense of the struggling Packers.

"It will be real easy to ignore, because I have a feeling we both didn't have our seasons go the way we wanted to," offensive lineman Daryn Colledge said.

"It's the last game of the year. This is it. Everybody's gotta go home. Everybody's got one more chance to prove to their coaches and prove to their fans that they're the players that deserve to be in that town playing football. We're not taking this game lightly."

While some players confessed that,..

Notebook: Pressure Not The Problem

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:16:18 CST

With five straight losses, there's certainly been pressure building for the Green Bay Packers to break their losing skid.

But Head Coach Mike McCarthy doesn't feel that pressure is getting to his team in the fourth quarter of all of these close games.

The Packers have lost seven games this season by four points or less, including four in a row during this losing streak and now two in overtime since the bye week. But in analyzing how the close games continue to slip away, McCarthy doesn't feel it can be chalked up to every fourth quarter being a pressure-packed choke job.

If so, from Monday night's game you'd have to ignore Will Blackmon's good kick return and a clutch third-down throw from Aaron Rodgers to James Jones that put the offense in position for the go-ahead field goal, or Nick Collins killing a potential Chicago scoring drive with a fourth-quarter interception, or the defense coming less than a couple of inches from stopping Chicago running back M..

Game Notes: Night Of Highs And Lows For Special Teams

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:42:49 CST

CHICAGO - A little creativity from Green Bay's special teams helped set up one touchdown and a kick return put the Packers in position for the winning field goal, but they also were responsible for a few errors that played a part in the team's 20-17 overtime loss to the Bears.

With the game scoreless early in the second quarter, the Packers lined up in punt formation at the Chicago 37 on 4th-and-2. Backup quarterback Matt Flynn, lined up in the blocking position behind the line, took the snap from Brett Goode rather than punter Jeremy Kapinos.

Flynn rolled out to his right looking to pass, but found a hole and ran the ball six yards for the first down. After four runs from running back Ryan Grant picked up 24 yards down to the Chicago 7, quarterback Aaron Rodgers found wide receiver Greg Jennings for a 7-yard touchdown on third down to give Green Bay a 7-0 lead.

The Bears answered the score with a big play of their own on special teams as Danieal Manning re..

Game Review: Second-Half Struggles Lead To Familiar Finish

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:42:01 CST

CHICAGO - After a strong showing in the first half that enabled them to jump out to a 14-3 halftime lead, it was a common refrain for the Packers down the stretch as miscues cost them once again, this time in a 20-17 loss to Chicago at Soldier Field on Monday night that ended with a 38-yard field goal from Bears kicker Robbie Gould in overtime.

The defeat, Green Bay's seventh in eight games, dropped the Packers to 5-10 with one game remaining. The loss on Monday night in frigid conditions was their seventh this season by four points or less, including their last four by that narrow margin.

"It was a tough, hard-fought football game like they always are," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "We had a lot of opportunities. They made some key plays, particularly on special teams that factored in the outcome. You come down here, you have obstacles you run into every game, and we didn't make enough plays to win."

The key play on special teams was a blocked kick by Be..

AP Game Summary: Bears Top Packers 20-17 In OT

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 21:48:09 CST

CHICAGO -- Robbie Gould kicked a 38-yard field goal with 11:28 left in overtime and the Chicago Bears overcame frigid conditions and the Green Bay Packers for a 20-17 victory Monday night to stay in the running for the playoffs.

Chicago's Alex Brown blocked Mason Crosby's 38-yard field-goal attempt with 18 seconds left in regulation to preserve a 17-17 tie and send the game into overtime.

"Our season was on the line. There was a timeout, so we had a little time to really get the guys one more time and say, 'Hey, we really have to block this kick," Bears coach Lovie Smith said. "And Alex Brown came through like he's come through many times in the five years I've been here. That's what the team needed."

The temperature at Soldier Field was announced at 2 degrees, making it the coldest home game in Bears' history since records started being kept in 1963. The wind chill was 13 below, the second lowest in recorded team annals, so the longtime rivals known for th..

Notebook: Punt Team Ready For Wind, Cold

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 15:28:54 CST

Last year at this time, Jeremy Kapinos had just punted in his first NFL game, with the New York Jets. The next day, his special teams coach put in the film of the Dec. 23 contest in Chicago between the Bears and the Packers to have him talk through what adjustments could be made in the ridiculously blustery winds that wreaked havoc on Green Bay's punting all day long.

"That film definitely evokes a bit of fear in any punter's heart, no matter where you are," Kapinos said. "You always feel for a guy in that situation."

To recap, the winds that gusted to 40 miles an hour off Lake Michigan that day created a disaster for the Packers. Punter Jon Ryan fumbled one snap, had two punts blocked, and had another shank off his shin. The special teams miscues were the primary culprit in a 35-7 Chicago blowout.

Kapinos and long snapper Brett Goode, both new to the Packers this season, spent some time practicing outside on Thursday to work a little in the cold and wind. ..

Kickoff Units Going Through Ups And Downs

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 15:34:24 CST

After the Packers hit a rough patch with their kickoff coverage unit in back-to-back games against New Orleans and Carolina, special teams practice periods the following week went back to emphasizing very fundamental drills.

Looking as though they had traveled in time back to training camp workouts, the special teams players worked extensively on things like positioning, blocking, getting off blocks, and such.

The back-to-basics approach appears to have paid dividends the past two games, as the kickoff coverage unit allowed Houston and Jacksonville an average of just 19.5 yards on eight returns, with none longer than 28.

"I think it helped," special teams coach Mike Stock said. "We've got so many young guys and we've had some changeovers during the course of the weeks that we're talking about, that we were better (doing) reinforcements. Some of these guys forgot where they began, if you will, and when you progress to a certain point in the season, sometimes..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:59:56 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 welcomed his first special teamer of the season with kicker Mason Crosby. Interviewed in the special teams meeting room, Crosby discussed how he was recruited in Boulder, his kicking range, shooting the NFL's fantasy draft commercial, and whether he's affected by "icing the kicker."

This week, 'The Colledge Experience' hits the offensive line again with tackle Tony Moll. Interviewed in the visitors' locker room, Moll discusses his transition from tight end to tackle, fishing in Wisconsin, and his dog's tricks.

Tune in next Friday for the season finale of..

Notebook: Forte Is Chicago's Go-To Guy

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:28:21 CST

Drafting Matt Forte in the second round with the 44th overall selection this past April, the Bears were hoping they had found their running back of the future.

What they got instead was their running back, and in some respects their offense, of the present.

The degree of impact Forte has had on Chicago's attack would be significant for any one player, but it's downright remarkable considering Forte is just a rookie. In already besting Gale Sayers' franchise record for yards from scrimmage for a rookie set in 1965, the Tulane product already has surpassed 1,000 yards rushing and 50 receptions on the season, with team-high totals of 1,115 yards and 58 catches.

All told, he amounts to 35.2 percent of the team's yards from scrimmage (1,539 of 4,373) and nearly one-third of the touchdowns (11 of 37). (Note: a team's total yards from scrimmage does not include yards lost due to sacks.)

"When you draft a running back that high, the plan of course is for h..

Division Record Still A Source Of Pride

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:32:09 CST

For a team that had a goal of repeating as NFC North champions, it would be a small consolation, but with games against Chicago and Detroit remaining on the schedule the Packers still have a chance to finish with the best record in the division.

Green Bay enters the final two games with a 3-1 divisional record this season, including wins over Minnesota and Chicago at Lambeau Field and a victory at Detroit. The Packers' only NFC North loss came in November at Minnesota in a 28-27 defeat.

If the Packers were able to finish the season with wins at Chicago and vs. Detroit, their 5-1 mark in the division would be the best in the NFC North for the third straight season. Last year Green Bay led with a 4-2 mark and they tied with Chicago in '06 at 5-1.

"This is the Chicago Bears," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "This is a rival football game. This is a game that when the schedule comes out at the beginning of the season everybody looks at. I know I do. I know our f..

Notebook: Some Options At Strong Safety Spot

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:27:48 CST

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Thursday that Pro Bowl cornerback Charles Woodson, who has started at strong safety the past three games, will work at both safety and cornerback in practice this week with second-year safety Aaron Rouse also seeing time with the first unit.

With safety Atari Bigby being placed on injured reserve on Thursday by the team, Rouse would be the most likely candidate to move back into the starting lineup if the Packers decide to shift Woodson back to the corner spot.

"What initiated it was the injury situation at safety and the ability to play Tramon (Williams) in base," McCarthy said. "So we're going to still have the flexibility to play Aaron at safety as the starter, and also have Charles ready to go at safety. We're just going to make sure we're covered both ways."

Woodson has been productive in his three games at safety, posting 26 tackles, a sack, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and two passes defensed.

"I would say..

Tables Turned As Rivals Meet Again

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:26:34 CST

It isn't quite a complete reversal of roles, but it's close enough. For a rivalry game anyway.

Last year, heading into the season's 15th game, the Packers had locked up a first-round playoff bye and were in the fight for the NFC's No. 1 seed when they headed to Chicago, where the Bears were out of the playoff hunt and playing for next year.

As Green Bay fans remember all too bitterly, the Bears bested the frigid cold and arctic winds in a 35-7 blowout at Soldier Field, a win that helped Chicago build some momentum for 2008 and solidify Kyle Orton as the team's starting quarterback.

Fast-forward 364 days to this coming Monday night, and it's the Packers who aren't playoff-bound but who could play a bit of the spoiler role. The Bears sit one game behind the Vikings for first place in the NFC North, and even though Minnesota could clinch the division title with a win over Atlanta on Sunday, Chicago would still be in the hunt for at least a wild-card spot on Mo..

Hall Inductees Freeman, Levens Shared Unforgettable Highlights

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:54:26 CST

As mid-round draft picks who joined the Packers in consecutive years and contributed to one of the most prolific offenses in team history, running back Dorsey Levens and wide receiver Antonio Freeman have shared a similar backdrop to their careers.

They even were in tandem back deep on kickoff returns in their early days.

But they're also known for enjoying some of their biggest moments at the biggest times, and in that sense it's even more fitting the two will be inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame together in July.

In a conference call with state media on Wednesday, they reminisced about some of their more memorable on-field exploits.

For Levens, who played eight seasons for the Packers after being selected in the fifth round of the 1994 draft out of Georgia Tech, the talk always goes back to the 1996 NFC Championship Game against Carolina at Lambeau Field.

Levens had a career day in helping the Packers get to their first Su..

Pro Bowl Honor Part Of Memorable Day For Collins

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:41:43 CST

Tuesday included two moments that free safety Nick Collins will likely remember for the rest of his life.

He and his wife, Andrea, were at a local hospital for an ultrasound, finding out that they will be having their second son this spring, when a phone call came with some more good news. It was Packers secondary coach Kurt Schottenheimer, calling to let Collins know that he had been selected to start in the Pro Bowl.

It is the first Pro Bowl selection for the fourth-year safety, and Collins becomes the first Packers safety to earn Pro Bowl recognition since Darren Sharper in 2002. Collins is tied with two teammates, cornerbacks Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams, and Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall for the NFC lead with a career-high five interceptions, trailing only Pittsburgh safety Troy Polamalu (7) for the league lead.

Collins leads the NFL with 230 interception return yards, the third-most in franchise history, trailing only Sharper (233 in 2002)..

Woodson Overcomes Obstacles For Pro Bowl Bid

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:47:29 CST

Some factors were clearly working against cornerback Charles Woodson making it to the Pro Bowl this year.

For one, there was the toe he fractured in the season opener against Minnesota. Right out of the gate, it was tough to know whether Woodson would be able to play in every game, let alone play at a Pro Bowl level.

"The one thing about it is anytime you play with an injury like that, you don't know if it's going to get worse and (create) the possibility of having to miss some really significant time," said Woodson, who hasn't missed a game all year. "But I was blessed with the ability to play, and the toe actually healed during the time I was playing those few weeks."

And then there was the switch to safety three games ago, which came on the heels of the Packers' blowout loss at New Orleans. Woodson made the move for the good of the team, with starting safety Atari Bigby injured, and though it hasn't resulted in any additional victories to keep the Packer..

Notebook: Approach To Remain Focused On Winning

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:16:31 CST

At 5-9, out of playoff contention, and with the youngest roster in the league, the Packers might be looked at as a team that would shake up its lineup and spread some playing time around to give the staff a chance to evaluate younger talent in extended game action.

But Head Coach Mike McCarthy on Monday said that will not be how the Packers proceed as they finish the season against two NFC North opponents, Chicago on Dec. 22 and Detroit on Dec. 28.

"Our approach will be to beat Chicago," McCarthy said. "I'm not going to change the personnel or make roster moves to use this as a development game."

There are likely several reasons for McCarthy's approach. For one, the next game is against the arch-rival Bears, who likely will still be in the hunt for either the NFC North title or an NFC wild-card berth come next Monday. To compromise either the rivalry or the playoff chase probably isn't something McCarthy is interested in.

But there's just as much t..

Game Notes: Grant Surpasses 1,000 Yards

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 10:38:22 CST

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Ryan Grant wasn't celebrating, especially not after the game.

But upon eclipsing 1,000 yards on the season for the first time in his career on Sunday in Jacksonville, he was trying to make sure he got the ball as a keepsake.

Grant's 4-yard run early in the second quarter to the Jacksonville 7-yard line, setting up a go-ahead field goal, pushed the Packers' feature back over 1,000 yards. He came into Sunday's game needing just 20 yards for the milestone, and he finished a day of tough sledding with 56 yards on 21 carries in the 20-16 defeat.

After his 4-yard run, though, Grant didn't see that the Packers' equipment manager, Red Batty, already had gotten his hands on the football and taken it to the sideline. Grant tried to get the next ball that had been put into play, but was stopped and told the situation was taken care of.

"They said Red got it," Grant said. "I was trying to follow the ball and they played a switcheroo on me...

Jones Gets Back On Track

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 10:38:38 CST

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - It was looking like a lost season for receiver James Jones.

Until Sunday, when he reminded everyone of the kinds of plays he can make when he's at least close to fully healthy.

Jones, who has played in barely more than half the games this season because of an on-again, off-again knee injury initially sustained in the third preseason game in Denver, caught three deep sideline passes against Jacksonville on Sunday, all of them leading to points for the Packers.

He added a fourth catch on the game's final drive, giving him a career-high 132 yards. But unfortunately, Jones' big plays weren't enough in the 20-16 loss, and that's what bothered the second-year receiver the most.

"We don't come out here for stats, we come out here for wins," Jones said. "If I have a big game, I could have did more to help this team get a win. That's the bottom line. I don't come out here for 100-yard games or anything like that. We come to win, and we ..

Game Review: Same Script, Different Day

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 10:37:54 CST

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - The script was old before Sunday, and all it did was get another repetitive chapter in Jacksonville.

The Packers once again gave themselves a chance to win a tight game, only to suffer from the same failures that have dogged the team all season long. There have been red-zone struggles, short-yardage hiccups, late defensive lapses and crucial offensive turnovers, and they all played a part in a 20-16 loss to the Jaguars at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium.

The defeat was the Packers' fourth straight, dropping them to 5-9 and officially eliminating them from postseason contention. It's the team's sixth loss this season by four points or less, including the last three in a row.

"It's frustrating because it seems to be the same thing every week," offensive lineman Daryn Colledge said. "I'm tired of doing the same interview. It's like, 'Ah man, it was so close. You guys had an opportunity. What happened at the end?'

"Right now need to..

AP Game Summary: Packers Drop Another Close One 20-16

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 12:36:40 CST

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- David Garrard squeezed through a hole, sliced left and found an open lane to the end zone. He was closing in on the goal line when Will Blackmon caught him from behind and slapped the ball away.

It bounced right into Garrard's arms as he fell to the ground, giving Jacksonville a much-needed break and leaving Green Bay with another familiar-feeling loss.

Garrard threw for 238 yards and two touchdowns, ran for 31 yards and the Jaguars snapped a four-game losing streak with a 20-16 victory over the Packers on Sunday.

"It's been a while," Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio said. "It was a happy locker room."

The Jaguars (5-9) won at home for the first time since September, ended Green Bay's slim playoff chances and left the Packers (5-9) arguing, pointing fingers and searching for answers after another fourth-quarter collapse.

"We shouldn't be having this miscommunication in Week 15 of the season," quarterback Aaron Rodgers ..

Notebook: Containing Jones-Drew Will Be Key

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 09:54:36 CST

With the Jaguars' second-leading rusher and leading receiver both sidelined for the remainder of the season, running back Maurice Jones-Drew will likely be the focal point of Jacksonville's offense on Sunday.

Fred Taylor, who had rushed for 556 yards this season, tore ligaments in his thumb last Sunday at Chicago and was placed on injured reserve this week. Wide receiver Matt Jones, who led the Jaguars with 65 catches for 761 yards, was suspended for the final three games for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.

That means a bulk of the offensive load will probably fall to Jones-Drew, who leads the team with 607 yards on 142 carries for a 4.7 average. He has rushed for 11 touchdowns, which ranks sixth in the NFL.

"He's a stocky, short guy that bounces off tacklers and has a lot of ability," defensive tackle Colin Cole said. "They like to get him downhill and get the ball in his hands as much as they can to make plays. He's going to be a big key."..

Grant Makes Another Run At 1,000

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 10:34:48 CST

He came so close last year. Tantalizingly close.

Ryan Grant heads into Sunday's game in Jacksonville needing just 20 yards for his first 1,000-yard rushing season. Barring an unforeseen injury - and he's played through plenty already this season - Grant will hit the fabled milestone and make the close call in 2007 just a footnote in his career.

But it's hard not to remember it now. Heading into last year's regular-season finale, Grant needed 101 yards to reach 1,000 for the season. Facing the last-place Detroit Lions, he ripped off a 27-yard touchdown run on just his second carry, five minutes into the game, and seemed well on his way.

Then on the offense's second possession, the Packers were feeding Grant the ball with the target in sight. He carried four straight times, gaining 18 yards up the middle on the third of those jaunts, to put him more than halfway toward the day's goal.

But on the last of those four straight runs, Grant took a shot fro..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:32:48 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 switched over to the defense with linebacker Brandon Chillar, the Packers' lone free agent signee this past offseason. Interviewed in the Lambeau Field X-ray room, Chillar discussed the adjustment from California to St. Louis to Green Bay, his future aspiration of coaching kids, and his game day diet.

This week, 'The Colledge Experience' welcomes its first special teamer of the season with kicker Mason Crosby. Interviewed in the special teams meeting room, Crosby discusses how he was recruited in Boulder, his kicking range, shooting the NFL's fantasy draft commer..

Notebook: Chillar On The Mend

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:54:11 CST

It appears linebacker Brandon Chillar's chances of playing on Sunday have improved, as his groin injury healed enough to allow him to participate fully in Thursday's padded practice.

Provided Chillar's body responds without a setback on Friday morning, it leaves the coaching staff with a decision whether to start Chillar or second-year pro Desmond Bishop at weak-side linebacker on Sunday in Jacksonville.

"I think we'll use the week of practice really to determine that," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "I think it's very obvious, you don't (ever) have enough good quality productive football players. So we'll find a way to make that work."

When middle linebacker Nick Barnett was lost to a knee injury last month, A.J. Hawk took over as the starter in the middle, with Chillar playing the weak side. The Packers used that lineup for three games, until Chillar strained his groin during practice last week, forcing Bishop to make his first career start against Housto..

Lee's Production Picking Up

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:33:37 CST

Like all of the players and coaches, tight end Donald Lee is disappointed with where the Packers are in the standings, but individually he is in the midst of his most productive stretch of the season.

In the last four games, Lee has 14 receptions for 126 yards and three touchdowns, including a career-high six catches against the Bears in Week 11. He caught touchdown passes vs. Chicago, Carolina and Houston, the first time in Lee's six-year career that he found the end zone in three of four games, and he currently ranks third on the team with 37 receptions.

"I just try to be the same guy every game," Lee said. "I just go out there and work hard and try to run great routes and make plays. Whenever the ball is thrown my way, I just do my best to make a play. I've just been very fortunate that things have been going my way these last few games."

Offensive coordinator Joe Philbin said Lee's increased presence of late in Green Bay's passing game has been due to a..

Notebook: Packers Striving For Fast Starts Down The Stretch

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 09:53:47 CST

Green Bay's offense has been solid in several areas this year, evidenced by their No. 11 overall ranking, but one facet that the Packers have struggled in all season is their ability to have success on opening drives.

Through 13 games, the Packers rank tied for 30th in the league with Detroit with just 10 points scored on opening offensive drives this season, ahead of only Cincinnati at seven points.

The last time the Packers were able to generate points on their opening series came back in Week 7 against Indianapolis when they capped a 13-play, 67-yard drive with a 31-yard field goal from Mason Crosby.

The only other game this season that saw the Packers score on the opening drive came in Week 4 at Tampa Bay when quarterback Aaron Rodgers connected with wide receiver Greg Jennings for a 25-yard touchdown.

Green Bay's offense has started six games with a three-and-out, and has posted just eight first downs on opening drives. In their last five los..

Packers, Jaguars Plenty Motivated To Get A Win

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:32:03 CST

With the Packers on the brink of playoff elimination and the Jaguars already out of the running, phrases like "playing out the string" or "playing for pride" are easily tossed about by fans heading into this weekend's matchup in Jacksonville.

But both head coaches, Green Bay's Mike McCarthy and Jacksonville's Jack Del Rio, insist there'll be no lack of motivation from their squads to get a victory come Sunday.

"It's time to fight, and I'm not talking about when a guy is blocking late after the whistle," McCarthy said. "It's time to fight our way out of this hole that we created. We're in this position for a reason, and it's time to fight in every aspect of our play."

McCarthy's Packers have lost three straight games and five of their last six since the bye week, falling to 5-8. While winning the NFC North is still mathematically possible - the Packers would have to win their final three games, the 8-5 Vikings would have to lose their final three, and the Be..

Turnovers Must Keep Coming

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:54:33 CST

If there's any sign from last Sunday's game that the Packers might be ready to get back on the winning track, it's that the team got back to forcing turnovers like it did earlier in the season.

The Packers had a season-high four takeaways against the Houston Texans - three fumble recoveries and one interception - marking only the second time in the last six games that the Packers forced more than one turnover.

Prior to that, the Packers had posted multiple takeaways in five of seven games, going 4-3 up until the bye week. But since then, the Packers' only multiple-turnover game prior to Sunday came at Minnesota, when three interceptions (including one returned for a score) nearly helped the team pull off a last-second win.

"That's what you always strive for," defensive coordinator Bob Sanders said. "They're things that help you win the game and get possession for your offense."

The turnovers had been especially hard to come by in losses to the Sain..

Notebook: Tauscher Headed For I.R.

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 11:53:33 CST

Head Coach Mike McCarthy announced on Monday that veteran offensive tackle Mark Tauscher tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee in Sunday's game and will be placed on season-ending injured reserve later this week.

The loss is a big blow to the Packers, not only on the field but from a leadership standpoint in the locker room. Tauscher, a starter since his rookie season of 2000, had played in all 16 games in four of the past five seasons since coming back from an ACL tear to the same knee in 2002 and is considered a warrior and respected leader amongst his teammates.

"He's the guy you point to," McCarthy said. "He's a true pro. Practices hard.

"He's lined up and he's done everything we've asked. Very steady person. Has an excellent disposition for the position and really for our football team. Just consistent through and through."

Depending on the player, rehabilitation from an ACL reconstruction can take anywhere from six to 12 ..

Game Notes: Bishop Gets First Start

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:51:28 CST

For the second time this season, second-year linebacker Desmond Bishop was called on to play a significant role in Green Bay's defense due to injury as he started the first game of his career, opening up at the weak-side linebacker spot in place of Brandon Chillar.

In Week 10 at Minnesota, Bishop played the majority of the second half at middle linebacker after Nick Barnett left the game with a season-ending knee injury. With A.J. Hawk taking over in the middle since Week 11 vs. Chicago, Bishop filled in on the weak side for Chillar, who sustained a groin injury in practice on Wednesday.

Bishop made his presence felt as he led the team with 11 tackles, including two for loss, according to press box statistics. It was a day of firsts for the sixth-round draft pick out of California as he also recorded his first forced fumble and sack on Sunday.

"That's how I play," Bishop said. "I just try to have a high motor and fly around and try to help get a win."
..

Game Review: Familiar Finish In Loss To Texans

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:51:05 CST

Head Coach Mike McCarthy has talked about his team's inability to make more plays than its opponents at crucial points of close games this season, and that problem reared its head once again in Green Bay's 24-21 loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday at Lambeau Field.

The loss dropped the Packers to 5-8, three games behind division-leading Minnesota (8-5) and two behind Chicago (7-6). It was Green Bay's third consecutive defeat and fifth in six games since entering the bye on a two-game winning streak, and their fifth loss this season by four points or less.

The Packers have not been mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, but their chances of defending their division crown are all but gone at this point.

To make the postseason, Green Bay would need to win its three remaining games, Minnesota would need to lose its final three (at Arizona, vs. Atlanta, vs. New York Giants), and Chicago would have to drop two of its final three, including a loss to ..

Flags Fly At Worst Times

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:50:23 CST

For a team that has been at or near the league lead in penalties in 2008, Sunday's half-dozen infractions for 65 yards by the Green Bay Packers did not constitute their worst day.

But the flags certainly flew at the worst possible times in the 24-21 loss to Houston at Lambeau Field, none worse than a highly questionable holding penalty on backup right tackle Tony Moll. It came with just under 3 minutes to play that wiped out a run for a first down into the red zone by Ryan Grant and contributed to the offense sliding back and out of field-goal range with the game on the line.

The Packers, trailing all day, had just tied the score at 21 with 5:56 left and gotten the ball back after a three-and-out. Starting from the Green Bay 16, Donald Driver's 59-yard catch-and-run put the ball on the Houston 25 with 3:46 left.

Well within Mason Crosby's kicking range, the Packers looked like they would either finish the drive with a go-ahead touchdown, or burn as much clo..

New Punter Makes Solid Debut

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:50:43 CST

On an otherwise maddening Sunday afternoon, the Green Bay Packers appear to have at least taken a step forward in the search for a new punter.

Jeremy Kapinos, signed earlier this week after the team held a handful of workouts to find a replacement for Derrick Frost, got off on the wrong foot with an early shank but quickly righted himself and went on to have a solid debut at Lambeau Field.

Kapinos punted eight times in all for a respectable 39.5-yard average in the 3-degree temperatures, with a net of 34.5. More important than those numbers, three of five times Kapinos was able to pin the Houston Texans inside their 20-yard line, including once inside the 5 with the game on the line.

His only failures in those situations were his opening shank, a 25-yarder that went out of bounds on the Houston 25, and a 49-yarder that went for a touchback.

"It kind of felt like I was back in college, back at Penn State," Kapinos said. "It was fun, it was enjoyable..

AP Game Summary: Texans Edge Packers 24-21

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 14:14:58 CST

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- Matt Schaub certainly didn't look like a guy whose knee wasn't healthy enough for him to play just six days ago.

Schaub returned from a four-game absence to throw for a career-high 414 yards in the Houston Texans' 24-21 victory over the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on Sunday. He also led a final drive to set up Kris Brown's 40-yard field goal on the last play of the game.

Schaub's knee even held up under the intense celebration afterward.

"Kris jumped on me and just held on and I said, 'Come on, we've got more guys to celebrate with,'" Schaub said. "It was just excitement, one of those team wins. You just want to go around and give everyone a hug."

After sitting out the Texans' (6-8) victory over Jacksonville on Monday night, Schaub returned Sunday to play with a brace on his left knee -- but his mobility certainly didn't suffer. He made big plays on rollouts and bootlegs all afternoon, completing passes to eight receivers...

Packers Trail Texans 10-7 At The Half

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 13:30:06 CST

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers completed 11-of-16 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown but the Packers trail the Texans 10-7 at halftime at Lambeau Field.

The Texans scored on the third play of the game as quarterback Matt Schaub found wide receiver Kevin Walter for a 58-yard touchdown. Schaub's pass was slightly underthrown, but Walter came back to make the catch with cornerback Tramon Williams covering.

Houston was deep in Green Bay territory again early in the second quarter and Schaub found tight end Owen Daniels inside the Packers 5. Linebacker Desmond Bishop, making his first NFL start, stripped the ball and Williams recovered at the 3.

It was another play by Williams that set the Green Bay offense up to even the score. Williams picked off Schaub's third-down pass intended for wide receiver Andre Davis at the Houston 23.

Two plays later, Rodgers found tight end Donald Lee on the left side of the end zone with safety Brandon Harrison covering for ..

Notebook: Packers Look To Continue Trend Of Late-Season Success

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 16:46:15 CST

With the Packers likely needing to win all four of their remaining games to have a chance to make the playoffs, they can lean on the fact that they have been one of the best teams in the league in the final quarter of the season over the last two years and this decade.

Since Mike McCarthy took over as head coach in 2006, the Packers have a combined record of 7-1 in their final four games of the season, including a 4-0 mark at Lambeau Field. Their only loss came Dec. 23, 2007, in a loss at Soldier Field to Chicago.

"I like playing here in December," McCarthy said. "I think it's great. I think it's definitely an advantage, and you play a particular team that's not used to it."

Since Houston entered the league as an expansion team in 2002, they have only played twice when game-time temperatures were below freezing. The first came at Chicago on Dec. 19, 2004 (12 degrees), and the second came two weeks ago at Cleveland. The Texans beat the Browns 16-6 with a gam..

Houston's Johnson, Williams Present Tough Matchups

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 16:45:07 CST

Game-planning in the NFL is mostly about matchups - finding ways for your best players to perform at their highest level while scheming for ways to limit the impact of the opponent's top talents.

Not to take anything away from dynamic rookie running back Steve Slaton and productive middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans, or to discount the expected return from injury of starting quarterback Matt Schaub. But when the Green Bay Packers look at the Houston Texans, without a doubt there's one proven, game-changing talent on each side of the ball that must be accounted for.

They are receiver Andre Johnson and defensive end Mario Williams.

Much like Steve Smith for Carolina last week or Adrian Peterson and Jared Allen for Minnesota a month ago, if everyone is talking about Johnson and Williams after Sunday's game at Lambeau Field, it won't be a good thing for the Packers.

Johnson is the more established of the two stars. Now in his sixth year after being selecte..

Watch 'The Colledge Experience' On Packers.com!

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:22:23 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 welcomed another member of the offensive line, tackle Mark Tauscher. From the equipment department's fitting room, Tauscher discussed his charity work, his experience being Wisconsin-born and playing for the Packers, who the biggest eater is on the team, and answered questions from international fans.

This week, 'The Colledge Experience' switches over to the defense with linebacker Brandon Chillar, the Packers' lone free agent signee this past offseason. Interviewed in the Lambeau Field X-ray room, Chillar discusses the adjustment from California to St. Louis to ..

Notebook: New Punter Off To Good Start

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:42:14 CST

Since being released by the New York Jets this past summer, Jeremy Kapinos has spent his Sunday afternoons in front of his television with a notepad, a stopwatch or two, and his phone by his side.

He could never know for sure, but by following what was going on with punters around the league, he'd at least give himself an idea where his next opportunity might come from.

After his first practice with the Packers on Thursday, Kapinos didn't directly comment on whether he knew what was happening in Green Bay with Derrick Frost and his punting struggles. But considering his Sunday routine, it's safe to say Kapinos wasn't surprised when he heard from the Packers on Monday that they wanted him in for a workout.

"I was just always ready," Kapinos said. "That's pretty much what you have to be. 'Have cleats, will travel' I guess is my motto."

Kapinos flew to Green Bay on Monday night and then worked out for the Packers on Tuesday, punting some in the Hutson..

Time On Practice Squad Pays Off For Many Players

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:41:07 CST

Defensive tackle Alfred Malone walked into the Packers locker room at Lambeau Field on Thursday after practice and veered off to his left to a smaller locker room where the team's practice squad players dress. He caught himself and smiled, realizing that he was now part of Green Bay's 53-man roster, and walked over to his locker alongside the team's other defensive linemen.

After having spent the first 12 games of the season on the Packers' eight-man practice squad, Malone joined cornerback Joe Porter on Monday as both were signed to the team's active roster, filling spots that were created with defensive end Kenny Pettway and linebacker Nick Barnett heading to injured reserve.

Porter got the news after a voice mail popped up on his cell phone from a familiar number that caused some anxiety.

"I saw that I had a missed call from upstairs and I was a little nervous being on practice squad and I know that it is cut day too," Porter said. "It was Reggie McKenz..

Players Raise Spirits At Kids' Holiday Party

Duke Bobber, Packers.com — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:00:33 CST

Professional football players may be notorious for their resolve and strength, but when compared to the kids they spent time with Wednesday night, it's no contest.

Nearly 200 children, accompanied by their families and loved ones, attended the seventh annual "Families of Children with Cancer Holiday Party" at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in De Pere. Packers players mingled with the children and their families, played a variety of games with the kids, and participated in a spirited sing-along of carols.

The night of fun and games with their favorite Packers gave the children an escape from their health issues, and the players realized that.

"It really is inspiring and motivating to see these young kids fight the things they have going on internally," kicker Mason Crosby said. "The fact that they're struggling inside is a sad thing and makes me happy that we can come and get some laughs, enjoy some time and kick off the holiday season the right way."

R..

Rodgers Has Shown Ability To Get Hot Hand

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:35:37 CST

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has spoken often this season about getting the offense into a rhythm, and staying in one.

For his part, Rodgers certainly has shown the ability to get the hot hand at times, putting together some impressive stretches of efficiency and point production over the last several weeks.

This past Sunday against Carolina was perhaps the best example of just how good Rodgers can be when he's in a rhythm.

He put together back-to-back touchdown drives in the first half during which he was a combined 9-of-11 passing. And then he got even hotter for a while in the second half, completing 11 straight throws as part of a 17-of-19 stretch over three possessions that produced two TDs and a field goal.

That level of efficiency is almost uncanny, and though no one can expect him to remain that productive for an entire game against NFL defenses, the fact that he can get rolling like that for more than just one drive at a time shows how much c..

Notebook: Woodson Expected To Start At Safety

Tom Fanning, Packers.com — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:38:33 CST

Head Coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday that cornerback Charles Woodson, who started his first game at safety as a Packer against Carolina last Sunday, will work there again in practice this week and likely start at strong safety against Houston.

Atari Bigby, who has started just six games at strong safety this season as he has battled hamstring and ankle injuries, saw limited time against the Panthers but sprained his shoulder in the first half and will be out on Sunday. Aaron Rouse, who was inactive Sunday with a knee injury, was a full participant in Wednesday's practice and would likely serve as the top backup safety against the Texans.

For Woodson, Sunday was the first time he started at safety since opening at free safety for the Oakland Raiders on Sept. 18, 2005, against the Kansas City Chiefs. McCarthy said Monday that the switch was initiated because of the injuries at safety, but also because it gave the Packers the opportunity to get nickel back Tramon Wi..

Red-Zone Defense Slipping Of Late

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 11:46:23 CST

Through the season's first 10 games, the Packers' red-zone defense was definitely one of the team's strengths, but like some other segments of Green Bay's game, it has suffered a dramatic drop-off in the past couple of weeks.

Head Coach Mike McCarthy pointed it out during his Monday press conference, and a check of the statistics shows how noticeable it's been.

After 10 games this season, the Packers had allowed opponents just 12 touchdowns in 29 red-zone possessions. On the other 17 drives, Green Bay had forced 12 field goals and captured five turnovers (four interceptions, one fumble).

But in the last two games, New Orleans and Carolina have combined to score nine TDs in 10 trips into the red zone, with one field goal. In two weeks, the Packers have dropped from fifth in the NFL in touchdown percentage allowed (41.4) all the way to 21st (53.8) in red-zone defense.

"I'm not naive to the fact that the offense might get down there," McCarthy said. "..

Notebook: Focus Narrows To This Week

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:45:18 CST

With the Minnesota Vikings two games ahead and the Chicago Bears one game up in the NFC North standings, the Packers' prospects for winning the division title don't look promising.

And there's virtually no promise at all if the Packers don't win each of their last four games to finish with a 9-7 record, and even then they'll need some help.

But for a team that has lost four of its last five and seven of its last 10 games, talk of a potential four-game winning streak is meaningless. As the old saying goes, you can't win them all unless you win the first one, and the first one is Houston on Sunday at Lambeau Field.

"We need to beat the Houston Texans," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "Everybody talks about one game at a time. We need to get better today with the corrections that we've had really the last two weeks. We need to correct that and we need to have a good week of preparation."

Preparation doesn't seem to be an issue, but closing out games ha..

Colder Weather Not a Concern for Pregame and Postgame Action in the Tundra Tailgate Zone

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:32:28 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 Houston Texans.

Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to meet Packers Hall of Fame linebacker Dave Robinson, a member of the great Lombardi teams of the '60s. Live music by Funk Trunk 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.

After the gam..