Sharp Cheddar 12.02.13

The crew is back from a turkey induced coma to discuss the trauma of being mauled by Lions. We also sing some Sarah McLachlan a cappella. Seriously.

Sharp Cheddar 11.26.13

Brian, Joe, and I discuss the emptiness of tying in the NFL, issue some paddles, and reflect for a moment of thanks.

Sharp Cheddar 11.19.13

We offer up a prayer to the football gods, asking for forgiveness for whatever it is that Packers fans did to anger them so.



Editor's note: I have to eat my words. Bill Murray was not in Operation Dumbo Drop. How I confuse Bill Murray and Ray Liotta is beyond me. I apologize.

In Like Flynn

     After a quick workout and presumably brief conversation with his agent, Matt Flynn was told he could keep those Packers sweats he was wearing. Though no announcement has yet been made, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported last night that the signing is imminent.

     The Packers began a conversation with Flynn last week, but their hand was forced by QB Seneca Wallace's early exit Sunday against the Eagles with a groan (sic) injury.

     Not to toot my own horn, but a certain out-of-market Packer web logger did foretell the exact set of circumstances that would lead to the team resigning their former backup. But here, I'll save you the click:

"If Wallace baulks or, worse yet, sustains an injury, it is likely that Scott Tolzien would get an opportunity, and that the team would then reach out to Flynn as a possible next man up."

  

      My crystal ball and I can't take full credit, though. It's almost a no brainer that Flynn would at least get a look, given the quarterback carousel this season. Well-documented elbow tendonitis aside, Flynn is a high-IQ player with an in depth knowledge of the Packers very complicated offensive playbook. God forbid Scott Tolzien gets hurt or plays very poorly, Matt Flynn can no doubt competently pilot the ship. His potential effectiveness is a suspect variable, but coach Mike McCarthy would at least be able to run an almost full menu of plays with Flynn behind center. 

    

      But Packer fans should hope to never see Flynn on the field, as it would mean that Scott Tolzien played effectively, stayed healthy, and ideally stole a victory or two in Aaron Rodgers absence. Flynn will most certainly be the backup, as McCarthy has already given the starting job to Tolzien. 

    

     The signing will likely be made official by the team today, and a corresponding roster move will have to come with. More than likely, QB Seneca Wallace will be placed on IR, thus ending his tenure in Green Bay, and possibly his career.

Related articles from Daily Dope Sheet:

Emergency Pack: Why/When to Sign Flynn

McCarthy: "Scott Tolzien Will Start" 

Sharp Cheddar Podcast: Discussing GB's Odds w/o Rodgers 



Follow me on Twitter @DailyDopeSheet and talk Packers all damn day!

Mike McCarthy: "Scott Tolzien will start against the New York Giants"

The Packers had just lost their second consecutive home game, falling 27-13 to the Eagles, as coach Mike McCarthy began his post game presser. "I'll tell you right now, Scott Tolzien will start against the New York Giants, so we'll answer that question right here." When prodded, he firmly iterated, "I'm the head coach. I've made that decision."
    Seneca Wallace got virtually all of the practice reps this week with the number one offense, but suffered a groin injury on the first series in Sunday's game. In relief of Wallace, former Badger Scott Tolzien did his best not to shrink in the face of adversity. He completed an impressive 24 of 39 pass attempts (62%) for 280 yards and a touchdown. He did throw two picks, one of which was objectively his fault.
    But this performance must be put into context. Consider that Scott Tolzien was was only activated from the practice squad this past Wednesday. It stands to reason that Tolzien was running on poise, rather than playbook proficiency. In that regard, he was a pleasant surprise. That in mind, McCarthy's insistence is perhaps justified. Tolzien answered the bell objectively stronger than did Seneca Wallace last week, when he faced almost literally an identical set of circumstances.
    The injury bug has forced Ted Thompson's hand, and we'll soon see if free agent QB Matt Flynn—the Packers kicked his tires this week—gets the nod from a medical standpoint. But the immediate future appears to be Tolzien's time.  Wallace's availability is still unclear.

Packers Beat Down Browns 31-13

The Packers improved their home winning streak to 10 consecutive games—23 of their last 24—with a convincing 31-13 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Here are some takeaways.

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I would be remiss in not mentioning the heartbreaking injury to TE Jermichael Finley at the top of this post. After a 10 yard catch and run, Finley ducked forward in anticipation of a collision with Browns safety Tashaun Gipson. The defender squared his shoulder and smashed into the massive tight end. As Finley fell motionless to the ground, hearts sank into stomachs both on the field and in the stands. The silence was deafening, and Finley's state disconcerting. After a six minute pause in the action, Jermichael Finley was fastened to a gurney, face mask unscrewed, and immediately taken to an area hospital. It would be premature, not to mention crass, to begin to stipulate on the implications of this injury on Finley's season and career, as well as the team's injury-riddled offense. At this point, the important facts are that after a precautionary stay in the intensive care unit, Finley was able to walk around fine today, and was reportedly in good spirits. Early tests are coming back negative—that's a good thing—and we'll at least know something more by Wednesday's injury report.

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As if Aaron Rodgers needed to further set himself apart from other QB's, his performance on Sunday certainly accomplished that. His numbers were on par in the context of his career—25 completions on 36 attempts for 260 yards, 3 TD's and no picks—but it was the weapons at his disposal, or lack thereof, that make his level of success so remarkable. With primary playmakers like Randall Robb and James Jones sidelined, as well as Jermichael Finley later in the game, Rodgers got it done throwing to Jordy Nelson, Jarrett Boykin, Myles White, and Jake Stoneburner. James Jones may return next week, but it will be a long time before we see either Cobb or Finley on the field. Rodgers' meddle will be tested down the stretch, but he made it look relatively easy piloting a patchwork production against a competitive Cleveland defense.

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Eddie Lacy is a grown man. A powerful, punishing back who out-muscles defenders on first contact, and falls forward every time. In a "quiet" day for Lacy, he racked up 82 yards and 1 TD on 22 caries. The Packers have generally not had this type of production on the ground under Mike McCarthy, and the timing couldn't be better. With Aaron Rodgers bringing a knife to a gun fight—throwing to practice squad players and street free agents—being able to fall back on a reliable rusher is a life saver. Eddie not only occupies the attention of secondary defenders, but his consistent production also proves a boon to the offensive line. The difference in the line's overall swagger with and without Lacy is obvious to anyone who has followed this team over the past few seasons. With long term injuries piling up, the team will need Lacy to continue to produce at a high level in order to stay atop a murky NFC North.

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With Sunday's beat-down of the Browns, the Packers improve to 4-2 and take control of the NFC North. With the Vikings still to play tonight in New York, here is a snapshot of the division.

• 1. Green Bay (4-2) - Next opponent: Minnesota      
• 2. Detroit (4-3) - Next opponent: Dallas                   
• 3. Chicago (4-3) - Next opponent: BYE, Green Bay
• 4 Minnesota (1-4) - Next opponent: New York        

Sharp Cheddar 9.24.13

This week I had the pleasure of chatting with both Brian and Joe about all things Packers. The tough loss to Cincy, McCarthy's abysmal clutch 4th quarter resume, and Vontaze Burfict's fascination with Ryan Taylor's reproductive health.

Dinked and Dunked to Death: Packers Fall to Bengals 34-30

In a game full of fumbles, interceptions, and momentum swings, it was the home team Bengals who enjoyed the final pendulum swing, winning 34-30. Despite the tough loss, and falling to 1-2 before entering the bye week, there are definitely positives to glean from this game. Here are a few:

Photo credit: Packers.com

Sam Shields: We highlighted Sam Shields last week in our quick hits from the Redskins game, so this makes it two weeks running that his play has warranted discussion. Shields was tasked with guarding AJ Green, Cincinnati's young number one at wide out. For the most part, Shields did his part to bottle up Green and force QB Andy Dalton to look elsewhere for yardage. Green was held to just 4 catches for 46 yards, 20 of which came on one play, a third quarter TD catch to bring the Bengals within nine (30-21). While Shields took the statistical fall for that play, having lost a step on AJ Green only once in the entire game is no crime—And having no safety help over the top didn't make life any easier on that play. Friend of DDS Joe Tomcheck said on last week's episode of Sharp Cheddar that he thought Shields has been breaking on the ball "phenomenally well" this season. That was illustrated no better than late in the first quarter, when an anxious Dalton thought he had Shields misdirected on a short route left, fired the ball inside to AJ Green, only to have Shields make a tremendous adjustment, pivoting his torso just in time to make a wonderful back shoulder interception. With the help of Shields, the Packers defensive secondary has looked better than it did on paper at the start of the season.

Ground and Pound?! The Packers entered Sunday's contest with just two healthy running backs, James Starks and Johnathan Franklin. Eddie Lacy sat out with a concussion, and even fullback John Kuhn was sidelined with a hamstring. It's worth noting that McCarthy's Packers have been forced to field just two running backs in just one prior instance, a 2011 matchup against the Chiefs—Another tough loss that was within reach late. But the difference here was stark, to be frank (Wow. A double pun. You guys should pay me for this stuff). With run blocking suddenly no longer a deficiency from Green Bay's offensive line, Starks gutted out 55 yards on 14 carries and Franklin surprised everyone with 103 yards and a score on 13 carries. In relief of the injured Starks, Johnathan Franklin wowed everyone with his first meaningful NFL action. He was decisive, slippery, and motored through the line for big gains. And though a twisted ankle late in the game had fans holding their breath, Franklin returned on the next series. He did fumble away the game in the fourth quarter, inexcusable at this level, but Packers faithful suddenly have lots to be excited about out in the backfield. With the bye week upon them, the team has an opportunity to get healthy at running back, and really open up the passing game with a stable of backs that defenses ought to respect going forward.

Injury Bug Bites--DuJuan Harris to IR

The Packers have placed RB DuJuan Harris on IR. Head coach Mike McCarthy made the announcement at today's post-practice presser. Harris recently sought a second opinion on the patellar tendon he injured earlier in camp, and the news was not good. McCarthy seemed despondent, and confessed that Harris was set to be a major part of the team's offensive plans this season. 

The injury opens the door for a few backs who had been on the fence. Alex Green has been fielding kicks and taking on other special teams responsibilities in an effort to stay relevant. Despite seeing few reps, James Starks has also apparently impressed in camp. An opportunity has arisen to step up and secure a roster spot. The timing is appropriate, as all teams must cut their rosters from 90 to 75 men by this afternoon.

Three's Company - Packers Sign Third Kicker in Ramirez

Pardon the lack of updates this weekend as 'blog central' was turned into 'brunch central' at the hands of my party-hosting girlfriend (a great skill player to have on my roster, to be sure). On to the news!

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Kicker Mason Crosby - Photo Cred: JerseyAl.com

Much like the stock market, Kicker Mason Crosby's value to the team has risen, fallen, risen, and fallen again throughout training camp. His recession of accuracy climaxed again as he went just 1-4 during a recent practice, the third time he's performed as poorly in as many weeks. Coach McCarthy has seen enough and saw fit to call in, try out, sign, and then practice Zach Ramirez, a third kicker on a crowded roster that can only get smaller from here.

Rookie kicker Giorgio Tavecchio has been deadly accurate as Crosby's direct competition thus far, but his leg power has been in question. Fans have been left to debate Tavecchio's merits. Some ballyhoo his weak leg, while others are hungry for literally any kicker besides Mason Crosby. But the team brass has made it's opinion clear by signing a third kicker: Tavecchio won't cut it.

Checkout Zach Ramirez's demo video below. For more on new kicker Zach Ramirez's story, check out Tom Silverstein's write-up over at JSOnline.com.



For more the Packers crisis at kicker:
First it Giveth... Free Agent Kickers Off The Market

First it Giveth... FA Kickers Off The Market

First it giveth, and then it taketh away. Recently-cut kickers Dan Carpenter and Rian Lindell were snatched up quicker than you can say "the free agent market is awash with talented kickers."--Though that phrase is admittedly lengthy. 

Rian Lindell, the former Bill, inked a deal with the Tampa Bay Bucs, while former Dolphin Dan Carpenter signed on with the new look Arizona Cardinals. 

Meanwhile, in Titletown, kicker Mason Crosby's newfound groove was offset by a terrible practice Wednesday, having missed a slew of kicks. He had somewhat restored coaches' faith after a perfect performance in last week's preseason contest in St. Louis. 

Challenger Giorgio Tavecchio has been the more accurate leg through camp and preseason, but the feeling from beat writers is that coach Mike McCarthy wants to give Crosby the job. McCarthy may not have a choice, as Crosby seems to be making that decision for him. 

The competing kickers are running out of time. The first round of roster cuts is due by August 31st, and it would be surprising if the team kept two legs past that point. Every kick matters.

Will the team regret not giving Carpenter or Lindell a serious look come mid-season? Are you comfortable with either of our current options?

Datone Jones Sits Out With Mild Sprain

Datone Jones was selected
by GB at #26 overall 

In a training camp full of nicks, bumps, and bruises, it was with bated breath that the Packers awaited further information on the injury to first round draft pick Datone Jones. The relief was palpable in the media room when coach Mike McCarthy today clarified that Jones will "miss a couple days this week." He seemed genuinely unconcerned that the injury may linger. Jones will likely be held out for the next preseason game against St. Louis, and it would seem the team will be extremely cautious with him until the season starts. Caution may outweigh practice reps for a rookie who has looked every bit the pass rusher the team hoped they nabbed on draft day. 

The Express Dope: Thursday, Aug 8th, 2013

Occasionally, I'll post some quick news hits to summarize the last few days of action. These segments will henceforth be known as 'The Express Dope.'

Tackle Bryan Bulaga is out for the
season again. Photo fred: ESPN

Bulaga officially ruled out: Consider any glimmer of hope subsided. The hobbled tackle had hoped a second opinion would permit him to play the season through on his torn ACL—not impossible for a position like offensive line. Common sense prevailed however, and Bulaga has decided to put himself on the shelf (again). This is clearly the best decision for his career, and his long term health in general. It's arguably the best decision for the team as well, who can now give rookie David Bakhtiari the full necessary tutelage to take over a daunting role. Bakhtiari has already exceeded expectation in camp, and all eyes will be on him during this Friday's preseason opener against the Cardinals.

Vince Young signed: The 30 year-old journeyman QB was brought in for a workout this past Monday and never left. While head coach Mike McCarthy states Young's signing is in no way a reflection on fellow backups BJ Coleman and Graham Harrell, it's hard not to view it as a slight indictment. The two have competed only against each other the past two seasons, and a capable number two slinger has not emerged. Young brings experience, athleticism, and a rocket arm to what had been a tepid backup QB competition. This should get interesting fast.

Cobb Injures Bicep: The Packers not-so-secret weapon, WR Randall Cobb, bowed out of Tuesday's practice early with what was later reported as a bicep injury. Cobb was seen midway through practice with an ice sling over his arm. The ice came off after a short time, but he took no further reps. Cobb returned to practice Wednesday, but was extremely limited and could be seen favoring the arm at times. The coaching staff doesn't seem worried, but keep in mind they have no obligation to discuss injuries in detail at this point in camp.

Nelson's Knee Flares Up: Workhorse WR Jordy Nelson underwent a procedure this week to repair a nerve in his knee, which flared up at the start of camp. The issue dates back to his college days, so it's nothing new. But the rehab period will have the valuable WR sidelined for all of preseason, with an optimistic timetable having him ready for the home opener (slash playoff rematch) against the San Francisco 49ers.

Kicking Contest Heats Up: Kicker Mason Crosby has said he doesn't feel pressure from competing leg, Giorgio Tavecchio. But perhaps he should. Crosby's struggles from last season—he was the NFL's least accurate kicker—have seemingly rolled over into the new year. He struggled at the Family Night Scrimmage, and is routinely tying or losing to Giorgio Tavecchio in kick-for-kick contests. Coaching and management have publicly made it clear that his efforts have not cut it, and Crosby agrees. Crosby's saving grace might be Tavecchio's questionable leg-strength. Though highly accurate, Tavecchio has struggled on kickoffs, many falling flat shy of the five yard-line. If Tavecchio does win the job, the team may have punter Tim Masthay kick off, as he has plenty of leg. Masthay's problem is accuracy and consistency on kickoffs. Then again, he's a punter. Look for a game of musical chairs at the position this Friday against the Cardinals.