Underwood still in limbo
The Packers second-year cornerback still doesn't know whether or not he'll be charged in the Lake Delton incident that occurred June 5, but he vows not to let the uncertainty distract him.
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Colledge gets first crack at left guard
Jason Spitz and Daryn College spent the offseason thinking they'd battle for the left guard job. Instead, the duo who came into the league together in 2006, became best friends and even appeared in a TV commercial together aren't going head-to-head just yet.
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Bigby concerned with ankle, not contract
While disappointed that he didn't get the long-term deal he wanted in the offseason, Packers safety Atari Bigby is worried more about his injured left ankle than the money the team chose not to pay him.
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McCarthy: Team is 'ready to take the next step'
After winning seven of their last eight regular-season games to finish 2009, Mike McCarthy's Packers are a trendy Super Bowl pick in 2010. And the coach is embracing those expectations, with hopes of adding another picture to the meeting room wall.
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Harris, Bigby open camp on PUP
While the Packers expected Al Harris' knee injury to keep him from being ready for the start of camp, the fact that safety Atari Bigby's ankle injury -- which dates back to the 2008 preseason -- still is an issue was a surprise.
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No joke: Thompson knows expectations are high
Ted Thompson's football report at the annual shareholders meeting seldom is enlightening, and the Packers GM was consistent Thursday. But he did acknowledge that his team is a trendy pick for Super Bowl XLV.
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Bulaga in the fold
The Packers will have all of their players in camp before Saturday's first practice after inking first-round draft Bryan Bulaga Friday morning to a five-year, $14.75 million deal.
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Goodell addresses Lambeau Super Bowl, Jolly situation
During his visit to the Packers' annual shareholders meeting at Lambeau Field, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell -- along with Packers CEO Mark Murphy -- talked about a Green Bay Super Bowl (not happening), Johnny Jolly's suspension and a host of other topics.
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Embracing the NFL's case?
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell attended the Packers' annual shareholders meeting, a perfect opportunity to get the owners' side of the collective bargaining agreement talks with the NFLPA out among the fans.
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ST: Looking for (vast) improvement
For the Packers to reach Super Bowl XLV as many prognosticators are predicting, their special teams units -- which ranked 31st out of 32 NFL teams last year in one study -- must improve under second-year coordinator Shawn Slocum.
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DBs: Looking for youth to be served
With Al Harris coming off a major knee injury, the Packers' nickel and dime defenses likely will rely on youngsters like Pat Lee and Brandon Underwood to contribute in the sub packages. Because Charles Woodson can't cover everyone, if they fail, it could be a long year.
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Bigby reportedly signs tender
After missing all of the offseason program while refusing to sign his one-year restricted free-agent tender, safety Atari Bigby gave up on his attempt to get a long-term deal and signed his tender in time for training camp, according to a report.
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LBs: As good as advertised?
While there are those nationally who believe the Packers' linebackers, led by interior starters A.J. Hawk and Nick Barnett, are among the league's elite, there are still questions about the position entering training camp.
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DL: The more you can do
With the suspension of Johnny Jolly having taken away arguably their best defensive lineman, the Packers are looking for their remaining front-liners to show enough versatility to give them plenty of options on the line.
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OL: Season on the line
After a horrendous first half of the 2009 season, the Packers offensive line is expected to show significant improvement in 2010. It better, if the team's Super Bowl XLV hopes are going to be realized.
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TEs: Maturing Finley set for starring role
While the Packers expressed offseason concerns that his success last season might go to his head, third-year tight end Jermichael Finley swears he's gotten his act together -- on and off the field. If that's true, he's a Pro Bowler in the making.
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WRs: Quality top to bottom
The way Aaron Rodgers figures it, the Packers have an embarrassment of riches at wide receiver. Donald Driver and Greg Jennings are better than anyone else's top two, and James Jones and Jordy Nelson are better than anyone else's third and fourth wideouts -- which should make 2010 interesting.
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RBs: Underappreciated Grant has big plans
Since taking over as the Packers' go-to running back, Ryan Grant has been the second-most productive ballcarrier in the NFL. While some may not have noticed, he plans on grabbing their attention this year with more yards -- and more wins.
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QBs: Aiming high
After a round of golf with Michael Jordan and Jerry Rice, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was reminded that while he's an emerging star, true success comes with winning championships.
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Called to the Hall
Lombardi-era tight end Marv Fleming, 1980s tackle Greg Koch and 1990s tight end Mark Chmura all found their enshrinement into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame worth the wait.
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Hall pass
After almost a decade of being away from the organization, former Pro Bowl tight end -- and ESPN Wisconsin radio host -- Mark Chmura talks about his return to the Packers family and induction into the Hall of Fame.
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Jolly suspended, Packers career could be over
The NFL suspended Johnny Jolly for the 2010 season -- and maybe longer -- on Friday, and it could signal the end of the Packers defensive end's career in Green Bay.
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Local flavor
While there was plenty of national attention on the Packers' financial picture Wednesday, the team is focused on growing its local revenue, which has flattened over the past three years.
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Front and center
When the Packers reported a $9.8 million net operating profit on Wednesday -- down from $20.1 million the year before -- all eyes in the NFL were on the smallest market in pro sports.
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Money matters
With the impending labor battle between NFL owners and the NFL Players Association, all eyes will be on the publicly-owned Packers' financial numbers, which will be released to the media on Wednesday.
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Giacomini looks to earn his keep
After being active on game day just three times in two years -- and seeing action in just one regular season game -- third-year lineman Breno Giacomini wants to prove he's worth the wait.
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Finley a happy camper
Looking to take his game to another level, Packers tight end Jermichael Finley attended Larry Fitzgerald's camp in Minneapolis this week -- and hopes to put the lessons learned to good use.
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Barbre keeps the faith
Allen Barbre has had two chances to start on the Packers' offensive line the last two years, and neither worked out. Now, the fourth-year lineman is just trying to salvage his career in Green Bay.
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Crosby looks to kick last year's slump
With a workout regimen focused on his core strength and no competition being brought in for training camp, Packers kicker Mason Crosby and his coaches expect him to be better in 2010.
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Swain works his way back
While his comeback hasn't been followed as closely as those of Al Harris and Will Blackmon, wide receiver Brett Swain's return from a torn ACL is on track for camp.
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Driver: 'I feel like I'm young again'
An arthroscopic surgery on each knee has the Packers' all-time receptions leader ready for his 12th NFL season at age 35 -- and planning on a long, productive run until he's at least 40.
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Blackmon can't drop the ball
If the Packers' return game is going to be a difference-maker, the team needs a healthy Will Blackmon. That much was obvious during the offseason comedy of errors in practice.
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Lang looks to make up for lost time
T.J. Lang had hoped to use his first full offseason in the NFL to make vast improvements in his game. Instead, the second-year lineman spent it waiting for his wrist to heal.
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Pulling no punches
Charles Woodson's offseason workout program included boxing with Nick Collins -- and while the two didn't hit each other, the workouts were a hit for the veteran cornerback's injured shoulder.
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The McCarthy way
By earning the players' respect -- and commitment -- with his OTA schedule and canceling Wednesday's final day of minicamp, Mike McCarthy believes in his practice formula heading into camp.
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Mature Bulaga a hit -- in many ways
Whether it's at bat, on the practice field as the second-string left tackle or in the locker room, wise-beyond-his-years Bryan Bulaga has shown the Packers he has what it takes.
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Jenkins gives linebacker a try
It's not every day that a 300-pound defensive lineman drops in coverage and plays outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. But that's exactly what Cullen Jenkins was experimenting with in practice Monday.
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Harris vows to be ready
While the Packers veteran cornerback acknowledges that he might not be ready to start training camp, he promises he'll be starting against Philadelphia when the season begins Sept. 12.
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Williams in the fold
The Packers cornerback joined the team Monday for the first practice of the mandatory minicamp after signing his $3.168 million qualifying offer.
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In like Flynn
While there are plenty of Packers fans who worry that an injury to Aaron Rodgers would derail the team's season, there's one person who believes in backup Matt Flynn: Rodgers.
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OTA notes: Murphy talks up 18-game season
While the Packers were going through an OTA practice that might be limited by an expanded regular season, team president Mark Murphy was on the NFL Network talking about the benefits of an 18-game season.
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While Bigby sits, Burnett impresses
With unsigned safety Atari Bigby skipping OTAs -- and presumably next week's mandatory minicamp -- rookie Morgan Burnett is making inroads toward Bigby's starting spot on the Packers defense.
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Jolly excused from minicamp
While he's under contract after signing his restricted free-agent tender, Packers defensive end Johnny Jolly won't be at the mandatory minicamp that starts Monday.
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Jolly signs, Bigby and Williams risk it
While Johnny Jolly took the smart money and signed his restricted free-agent tender Tuesday, Atari Bigby and Tramon Williams are taking their chances by not signing their qualifying offers.
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Money matters
By not signing their restricted free-agent tenders, Tramon Williams (left) and Atari Bigby (right) risk having their qualifying offers reduced to 110 percent of their 2009 base salaries.
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OTA notes: Rodgers stands by TV comments
While saying his comments about Tony Kornheiser and Ron Jaworski were "inappropriate" for the radio, the Packers quarterback didn't apologize for the substance of his remarks to Homer and Mitch earlier this week.
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Training camp schedule set
The Packers will report to camp on July 30, have their first practice on July 31 and hold eight nighttime practices, including seven that will be part of two-a-days on coach Mike McCarthy's 2-1-2 schedule.
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Underwood apologizes to teammates
While the second-year cornerback was starting to make amends to teammates after facing sexual assault accusations, coach Mike McCarthy was calling the incident a 'teachable moment.'
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Underwood awaits fate
The second-year cornerback’s attorney believes his client will be exonerated in the sexual assault case in Lake Delton, where charges have yet to be filed against him.
Woodson: I haven’t asked Packers for new deal
The Packers veteran cornerback says he hasn’t approached Packers about contract extension, despite a report that talks are ongoing for a new deal for the NFL Defensive MVP.
'Family Night' set for Aug. 7
The Packers' annual family-friendly intrasquad scrimmage will be on Saturday, Aug. 7, the team announced Tuesday.
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Packers player accused of sexual assault in Lake Delton
Seven Packers were questioned about an alleged sexual assault in Lake Delton, and while six were cleared, the investigation continues into the involvment of the seventh -- whom sources said Saturday night is Brandon Underwood.
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Turning the corner? Lee, Underwood must deliver
After standing pat at cornerback in the offseason, it's clear that the Packers are counting on Pat Lee and Brandon Underwood to contribute in the secondary in 2010.
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OTA notes: Harrell relishes opportunity
The NFL didn't give Graham Harrell much of a chance coming off a record-setting career at Texas Tech, but the Packers are giving him a shot after he spent last year in the CFL.
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Keeping up with the Joneses
Brad Jones may have been working with the Packers' first-string defense at left outside linebacker Wednesday, but Brady Poppinga was the one who talked like the starter to be.
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On the road to recovery
While Al Harris isn't all the way back from his torn ACL, the Packers Pro Bowl cornerback is back in Green Bay -- and in the back stretch of his comeback.
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Packers prep for life without Jolly
While the Packers wait for defensive end Johnny Jolly's drug case in Houston to go to trial, coach Mike McCarthy admits Jolly's availability for the 2010 season is "definitely" in question.
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'I’m going to give them every reason to not get rid of me'
Oft-criticized left guard Daryn Colledge will be fighting to keep his starting job when the Packers open training camp. During OTAs, he's taking all the first-team reps.
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Murphy: Lambeau Super Bowl 'very intriguing'
While it's hard to imagine it actually happening, Packers president/CEO wasn't dismissive of the idea of a Super Bowl in Green Bay after the NFL awarded the 2014 game to the New York/New Jersey area.
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Jolly gets tougher bond restrictions in drug case
Photos like this one posted on inDmix.com -- along with a flyer promoting him as a host of a May 7 party -- left Packers defensive end Johnny Jolly facing greater bond restrictions in his 2008 felony drug case.
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Survive and advance: Lee looks to stick around
Donald Lee became an NFL starter the hard way, working his way up. Now, the Packers soon-to-be 30-year-old tight end is fighting three youngsters at the position to keep a roster spot.
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OTA notes: Harrell still has hope
Justin Harrell knows that his NFL career has been a bust thusfar, but the Green Bay Packers' 2007 first-round pick is back -- and hoping his back holds up so he can prove his worth.
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Spot swap: Pickett, Raji switch positions
It may not be permanent, but it sure looks like it's here to stay: Nose tackle Ryan Pickett has moved outside to defensive end, and 2009 first-round pick B.J. Raji has moved inside to nose tackle.
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Matthews: 'I've never taken steroids'
Clay Matthews is still friends with Brian Cushing and still has this Sports Illustrated cover as his Twitter background. He also has a message for anyone who thinks Cushing's suspension says something about him.
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OTAs kick off sans Williams, Bigby, Jolly
When the Packers' offseason practices began Tuesday, they did so without their three unsigned restricted free agents: Cornerback Tramon Williams, safety Atari Bigby and defensive end Johnny Jolly.
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Harris vows to be ready for opening day
Al Harris doesn't have a single doubt in his mind: He will start at Philadelphia on Sept. 12. In the meantime, the Packers two-time Pro Bowl cornerback is working hard in his rehab to make sure it happens.
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Clifton: 'I feel great'
Chad Clifton isn't as injury-prone as some folks -- including the media and his coach -- think. And the Packers veteran left tackle plans on proving that in 2010, his 11th NFL season.
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Blackmon: 'I know I can make stuff happen'
After four injury-plagued NFL seasons, Packers cornerback/returner Will Blackmon is intent on staying on the field in 2010 -- and showing he's 100 percent after a torn ACL ended his 2009.
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Cushing keeps award, Matthews gains seven votes
While Brian Cushing still won the AP's NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in the re-balloting Wednesday, Packers linebacker Clay Matthews finished third -- again.
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Matthews could win award after all
Packers linebacker Clay Matthews finished third in the Associated Press' NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting in January. But in the wake of Brian Cushing's suspension, the 50 voters will re-cast their ballots.
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Rookie camp notes: 'A very good weekend'
No lasting decisions will come out of the Packers' three-day rookie orientation camp, but coach Mike McCarthy and GM Ted Thompson liked the early glimpses they saw of the rookie class.
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An 'outside' shot
Undrafted rookies John Russell, Frank Zombo and Tim Knicky are trying to take advantage of the limited number of outside linebackers on the Packers' roster and make the team while making the transition to a new position in the NFL.
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'I’m here for a reason'
Seeing his name above his locker was one of the many overwhelming moments for Packers undrafted free agent Quinn Porter. Now, the rookie running back is hoping to make a real name for himself -- as are 10 others.
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Rookie camp notes: Shields makes a splash
Miami cornerback Sam Shields made an impression on Wisconsin football fans during the Champs Sports Bowl. Now, he's trying to make an impression as an undrafted free agent with the Packers.
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Kicking their punting problems?
They have two guys who've never even punted in an NFL preseason game -- unproven Tim Masthay and Australian import Chris Bryan. And yet Packers GM Ted Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy like what they see at punter.
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Pacman a Pack man?
Troubled ex-NFL cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones says four teams have expressed an interest in him -- and one of them is the Green Bay Packers.
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Meet the Press: Bulaga impresses
Bryan Bulaga may not play a down for the Green Bay Packers in 2010, but it won't be because of a lack of effort from the first-round pick. And if he plays as well has he talks, he's going to be a good one.
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Thompson released, will retire
It's a sad day in Green Bay, as linebacker Jeremy Thompson, who suffered a frightening neck injury during a late-season practice last year, intends to retire after being released because of the injury.
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UW's Schofield, Graham find NFL homes
Former Badgers Garrett Graham and O'Brien Schofield both went in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft Saturday. For Schofield, it was affirmation that his torn ACL didn't obscure his talent.
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Draft notes: End of the line dancing?
With the selection of Bryan Bulaga in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the Packers just might be able to stop the seemingly never-ending game of musical chairs along their offensive line.
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Packers take character risk on Quarless
Andrew Quarless' football career almost ended in Joe Paterno's living room. He got a second chance, and the Green Bay Packers gave him another Saturday, choosing him in the fifth round of the 2010 NFL Draft.
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'This isn't about shooting the moon'
Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy believe in drafting for the long-term. And that's exactly what the Packers did during the 2010 NFL Draft instead of going after positions of need in an all-out blitz toward Super Bowl XLV.
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The Magnificent 7?
We take a pick-by-pick look at the Packers' 2010 draft -- which, with seven players, is the smallest of the Ted Thompson era.
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Third-rounder Burnett could pick off starting spot
An admitted Brett Favre fan, Georgia Tech safety Morgan Burnett could be facing the Minnesota quarterback this season if he can beat out incumbent Atari Bigby for a starting job with the Packers.
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Surprise! Packers take Neal in second round
Not many folks expected the Packers to draft Purdue defensive lineman Mike Neal -- including Neal himself -- in the second round of Friday's 2010 NFL Draft.
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Trader Ted trends toward upward trades
For the longest time, Packers GM Ted Thompson traded in one direction -- backward. But with Friday's deal to move up to take Georgia Tech safety Morgan Burnett, Thompson made a move up for the third straight year.
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Bypassing defense, Thompson gets his man
When Ted Thompson saw that Iowa's Bryan Bulaga might fall to No. 23, he stopped talking about trades and stopped thinking about drafting one of the defensive players left on the board. Time will tell if he made the right call.
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Packers, Thompson 'surprised' to get Bulaga at No. 23
Packers GM Ted Thompson killed time Thursday by running through different scenarios in his head. Not many of them included getting Iowa left tackle Bryan Bulaga with the 23rd overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
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Thompson: 'We'll do anything'
While Packers GM Ted Thompson's reputation is for trading back and stockpiling picks to keep building through the draft, change -- in the NFL Draft's format and Thompson's approach -- is in the air.
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Purple reign: Oct. 24, Nov. 21 games vs. Vikes highlight schedule
While Brett Favre hasn't announced his plans for 2010 yet, the NFL's schedule-maker -- and Packers fans -- are expecting him to return for a 20th season and two more games against his former team.
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ST: Getting their kicks
Drafted kickers and punters have had mixed results in the NFL. In the 2010 NFL Draft, only a handful, like Alabama kicker Leigh Tiffin, will merit consideration on Day 3 of the draft Saturday.
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DB: Berry is pick of the bunch
While conventional NFL Draft wisdom says safety is one position that doesn't merit a high selection, Tennessee's Eric Berry is so good that he might even be worth the No. 1 overall pick.
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LB: 3-4 teams get good read on Kindle
As the 3-4 defense keeps getting more popular among NFL teams, players like Texas' Sergio Kindle -- an outside linebacker with an explosive edge pass rush -- will be in even greater demand.
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DL: 'There’s a lot to like with both of them'
Expected to choose between Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh or Oklahoma's Gerald McCoy, the Detroit Lions and Tampa Bay Buccaneers can't go wrong. Both defensive tackles seem destined for stardom.
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OL: Take 'em as soon as you can
History shows that the best offensive tackles are usually first-round picks, as Iowa's Bryan Bulaga is projected to be. The problem for the Green Bay Packers in the 2010 NFL Draft? The best will be gone by No. 23.
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Getting some answers
Ted Thompson joked about how news-free his pre-draft news conferences usually are. That wasn't the case Friday, when the Packers GM talked about his offensive line and Brian Westbrook, among other assorted topics.
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TE: Gresham won't throw in the towel
Oklahoma tight end Jermaine Gresham did the same thing at every Sooners game last year: He stood on the sideline on crutches, and he waved a towel. In the NFL, he figures to do much, much more.
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WR: Talented Bryant could have Moss-like fall
There's no doubt that Oklahoma State's Dez Bryant is the class of a weak wide receiver group. But will character questions cause him to plummet down the NFL Draft's first round like Randy Moss did in 1998?
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RB: Spiller looks to outrun comparisons
With the league leaning toward more passing and franchise backs available after the first round, Clemson's C.J. Spiller wants to prove he's worth a first-round pick -- and will be better than Reggie Bush.
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QB: Taking Tebow is talk of draft
While Oklahoma's Sam Bradford is the presumptive No. 1 overall pick, all the buzz is about where Florida's Tim Tebow -- and his altered mechanics -- will go in the NFL Draft.
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Familiar faces dot preseason schedule
A couple of guys with strong Packers ties -- Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren and Seattle Seahawks GM John Schneider -- will pit their new teams against the green and gold in the exhibition season.
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Breakfast with the boys
Mike McCarthy didn't have time to eat Wednesday morning at the NFC coaches breakfast at the NFL Meetings. He spent his time drinking Starbucks coffee and answering a host of questions from reporters.
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Gearing up for game days
While the Packers' tradition is vital to the Lambeau Field experience, new HD video boards and a few other enhancements could make life even more enjoyable for the green-and-gold faithful on Sundays.
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Working overtime to change OT
NFL playoff teams like the Saints and Colts will have to do more than call the coin toss correctly and kick a field goal to win an overtime playoff game after the modified sudden-death rules passed Tuesday at the NFL Meetings.
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'I think we’ve got a pretty good team'
While their strong finish last season doesn't automatically carry over, Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy believe their team has potential in 2010 -- if it fixes a few problem areas from last season.
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Front and center: Packers, Murphy key to labor talks
While the Packers are the smallest market team in the NFL, they -- and their de facto owner, team president/CEO Mark Murphy -- will be big players in the labor negotiations with the players.
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Havner injured in motorcycle crash
The Packers' No. 3 tight end suffered a broken shoulder blade in an early Saturday morning crash and could be sidelined for much of the offseason program. Whether he'll face charges is unclear.
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'Tausch' returns
The Green Bay Packers are on a re-signing roll. First Chad Clifton, then Nick Collins and Ryan Pickett, and on Saturday, veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher came to terms on a 2-year deal.
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Plenty to celebrate
The Packers kicked off their annual FanFest by locking up two key players on their defense with long-term contracts: Safety Nick Collins and nose tackle Ryan Pickett. In an uncapped year, they're paying up to keep their own.
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Sharp dressed men
The Packers unveiled their much talked-about throwback third jerseys Friday at Fan Fest, harkening back to their first championship season by picking the uniforms from 1929.
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Reunited?
Jake Delhomme isn't scheduled to visit the Packers, but the team has contacted the ex-Panthers quarterback, who played for coach Mike McCarthy in New Orleans.
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Playing nice
Having tried in vain to get a long-term contract extension for their client last offseason by having him skip voluntary workouts, Nick Collins' agents are trying a different approach, starting with having him sign his tender.
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Kampman: ‘A fire burning’ to play defensive end
The now ex-Packers outside linebacker was determined to join a 4-3 defense and had no real interest in returning to Green Bay.
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Back home again ... in Jacksonville
Aaron Kampman grew up in Iowa and made his NFL home in Green Bay for eight seasons. But to return to his on-field home -- defensive end in a 4-3 scheme -- he had to join the Jaguars.
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Clifton: ‘I can finish my career here in Green Bay’
Aaron Rodgers is happy to have his blindside protector back, and Chad Clifton is excited to return to the Packers after a brief dalliance with the Washington Redskins.
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Where's Kampy? In Jacksonville
Aaron Kampman was reportedly all over the map when free agency opened. It turns out the Packers defensive end-turned-linebacker was visiting the Jacksonville Jaguars.
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Ends justify means
Julius Peppers' signing with the Chicago Bears gives all three of the Packers' NFC North rivals a Pro Bowl pass-rushing defensive end, making left tackle Chad Clifton's return all the more important.
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Welcome back, Clifton
While he created some tense moments for Packers fans with his visit to the nation's capital, in the end Chad Clifton came back to the same ol' place that he started from.
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Free-for-all
When the NFL's free-agent market opened at 11 o'clock Thursday night, the Packers were trying to keep Chad Clifton and in danger of losing Aaron Kampman.
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Premium pricetags
The Packers went all-out in their qualifying offers to defensive end Johnny Jolly and cornerback Tramon Williams, using expensive tenders that will likely keep both players in the fold.
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'I'm just not going to say anything anytime soon'
Ex-Packers quarterback Brett Favre doesn't tip his hand on his future plans during his Thursday night interview with NBC's Jay Leno on "The Tonight Show."
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Try a little tender-ness
The Packers made qualifying offers to eight restricted free agents and exclusive-rights free agent Spencer Havner -- but not scuffling punter Jeremy Kapinos.
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Packers want Blackmon back
The team will place the original-round tender on the cornerback/return man, who's on the mend after a season-ending torn ACL.
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NFL Combine: Cornering the market?
When the Packers faced a crisis at cornerback a decade ago, Ron Wolf drafted three of them. After the team's problems against Minnesota, Pittsburgh and Arizona, are desperate times here again?
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NFL Combine: The Big Show moves to Cleveland
Former Packers coach Mike Holmgren's 'retirement' was brief. Now, he's turning his attention to turning around the Browns.
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NFL Combine: Working (on) overtime
If the NFL follows through on proposed tweaks to its overtime rules, games won't end the way the NFC Championship Game did -- on a sudden-death field goal on OT's first possession.
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NFL Combine: 'You can't sit and mope'
UW's O'Brien Schofield has a positive outlook as he battles back from a torn ACL -- and looks to prove to the NFL he belongs.
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NFL Combine: Restricted Area
The Packers -- and many other NFL teams -- have a lengthy list of restricted free agents. The issue? How much to pay rising young players like Tramon Williams.
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NFL Combine: Taking Tebow?
While there's no guarantee that the much-discussed Florida QB will end up with the Packers, Mike McCarthy and Ted Thompson clearly like the Heisman Trophy winner.
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NFL Combine: Still hoping
While there's a good chance they're going to lose Aaron Kampman -- despite publicly saying they want him back -- the Packers' chances of reaching a long-term deal with Nick Collins are improving.
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NFL Combine: Take your time
Vikings coach Brad Childress has no intention of rushing Brett Favre into a decision on retirement. In fact, the Vikings coach would be OK with last year's timetable.
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NFL Combine: Special solutions
While Mike McCarthy acknowledged Friday that the Packers' special teams weren't very good in 2009, the coach vowed to take steps toward fixing them in 2010.
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NFL Combine: Graham looks to make impression
The University of Wisconsin's Garrett Graham is the latest in a line of NFL-bound tight ends the school has produced recently.
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Franchise fee: Pickett is $7 million man
As expected, the Packers placed their franchise tag on unrestricted free agent nose tackle Ryan Pickett Wednesday, one day before the deadline to do so.
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Tag, you're it?
The Packers are likely to use their franchise tag on nose tackle Ryan Pickett if they can't agree on a long-term deal before Thursday's tagging deadline.
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Special teams: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our day-by-day, position-by-position look at the Green Bay Packers this offseason concludes with Mason Crosby and the special teams.
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Defensive backs: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our day-by-day, position-by-position offseason look at the Green Bay Packers continues with Atari Bigby and the cornerbacks and safeties.
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Linebackers: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our daily, position-by-position look at the Green Bay Packers this offseason continues with Aaron Kampman and the linebackers
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Defensive line: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our daily look at the Green Bay Packers at each position this offseason continues with Ryan Pickett and the rest of the defensive line.
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Offensive line: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our daily look at the Green Bay Packers at each position this offseason continues with Daryn Colledge, T.J. Lang and the rest of the offensive line.
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Receivers/Tight ends: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our daily look at the Green Bay Packers at each position this offseason continues with Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and the wide receivers and tight ends.
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Running backs: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our daily look at the Green Bay Packers by position this offseason continues with Ryan Grant and the running backs.
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Quarterbacks: Packers offseason position-by-position
Our day-by-day, position-by-position offseason look at the Green Bay Packers starts with Aaron Rodgers and the quarterbacks.
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Now, the real big game begins
With Super Bowl XLIV behind them, the NFL and NFLPA turn their attention to the high-stakes labor battle.
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Understanding the uncapped year
Under the rules set forth for a 2010 season without a salary cap, Packers safety Nick Collins is one of 212 players who would have been unrestricted free agents but will be restricted instead.
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Super Bowl XLIV Preview: Five Things To Watch
We take a closer look inside Sunday's Super Bowl XLIV showdown -- which you can hear right here on 540 ESPN Milwaukee -- between the Indianapolis Colts (16-2) and the New Orleans Saints (15-3) at Sun Life Stadium.
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Super Bowl XLIV: A Sharper – and older, wiser – image
After reaching the Super Bowl as a rookie with the Packers, the veteran safety never thought it would take him a dozen years to get back to the NFL's biggest game.
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Super Bowl XLIV: Ex-Packer Muir finds a home
With the Colts, the defensive tackle is realizing the potential the Packers saw in him as an undrafted rookie in 2007.
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Super Bowl XLIV: In remembrance
Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams hasn’t been shy about his goal: Give Peyton Manning the ‘remember me’ treatment his guys gave Brett Favre.
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Super Bowl XLIV: Talk of the town
Tuesday’s media day wasn’t exactly the spectacle it has been in the past, so Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney’s injured ankle was the focus.
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Mutual admiration society
When Arizona's Kurt Warner called it a career on Friday, one of his biggest fans -- Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers -- had nothing but admiration and good things to say about him.
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Rodgers catches Pro Bowl fever
While the other five quarterbacks originally selected to the Pro Bowl won't be playing in it on Sunday, Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers is thrilled to be starting for the NFC.
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Packers raise 2010 ticket prices
The Packers announced Friday that the team is increasing its ticket prices between $8 and $11 for seats inside the stadium bowl, the first increase in three years.
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Seahawks tab Schneider as GM
Packers director of football operations John Schneider (center) will be announced as the Seattle Seahawks' new general manager today. (Photo courtesy Packers.com)
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Welcome to The Rookie
Check out our Packers writer's new blog, The Rookie, where he faces something more challenging than an all-out blitz or covering Greg Jennings with no safety help: Fatherhood.
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No. 1 draft pick
Our regularly-scheduled Packers coverage -- Wilde's Mailbox, stories, blogs, etc. -- will resume on Monday ... or, as it's known in the Wilde house, Madison's 5-day birthday.
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Season-ending notes: McCarthy won't blame officiating
Even though NFL.com video of Sunday's game-deciding play shows Mike McCarthy falling to his knees, the Packers coach wouldn't blame the officials for his team's season-ending loss.
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McCarthy: 'We need to improve'
Packers coach Mike McCarthy's season-ending message after the playoff loss last Sunday to Arizona was clear: Losing in the first round of the playoffs isn't good enough.
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Woodson wins NFL Defensive Player of the Year
Charles Woodson knew way back on Aug. 28 what he would do in Dom Capers' 3-4 defense. The Green Bay Packers cornerback -- and NFL Defensive Player of the Year -- was right on the money, too.
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Carollo: 'He did get him in the facemask'
Talking about the controversial play that ended the Packers' loss to Arizona, longtime NFL referee Bill Carollo told Steve "The Homer" True Monday that a penalty probably should have been called on Michael Adams.
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Packers-Cardinals notes: Warner's retirement can wait
If Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner does indeed decide to call it a career after Arizona's playoff run ends, he'll do so having shown he can stll play -- and he was brilliant Sunday.
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'It's going to be tough to get over this'
Aaron Rodgers threw for a team playoff-record 422 yards and four touchdowns Sunday. But it will be the mistakes he made and the throws he didn't that will haunt him.
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A defensive debacle
From ineffective zone coverages to shoddy tackling to failing to generate pressure on Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner, it was an all-systems failure by the Packers' defense Sunday.
Cardinals 51, Packers 45: Fumbling towards ecstasy
Aaron Rodgers had the ball in overtime in a game where the defenses couldn't get a stop. Then Michael Adams and the Cardinals came up with the play of the game -- and ended the Packers' season.
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NFC Wild Card Preview: Ten Things to Watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's NFC Wild Card playoff game between the Green Bay Packers (11-5) and the Arizona Cardinals (10-6) at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.
At home on the road
Two years ago, the Packers watched the New York Giants celebrate the NFC Championship at Lambeau Field. Now they want to duplicate the Giants' road to glory.
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Backed into a corner
To stop Larry Fitzgerald and the Arizona Cardinals' potent passing game, the Packers will be relying not only on Charles Woodson, but a crew of young, unproven cornerbacks when the Cardinals spread them out.
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Matthews gets Pro Bowl nod
When Chicago's Lance Briggs pulled out of the Jan. 31 game, Packers rookie Clay Matthews got the call to Miami -- and quickly accepted.
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Harris sees Super things for Packers
Even with him on the sideline, two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Al Harris expects his Packers to reach Super Bowl XLIV in Miami -- and expects he'll be back on the field by June.
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In the line of fire
When the Green Bay Packers got off to a disappointing 4-4 start, much of the blame fell on the offensive line. Now that they've turned the season around, much of the credit goes to the same crew.
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'It's just not enough'
Charles Woodson won another NFC Defensive Player of the Month award -- his third this season -- but all he really cares about is winning the Super Bowl title that has eluded him for 12 years.
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Leader of the Pack
As good as Aaron Rodgers was this season -- and the Packers quarterback was really good -- the playoffs are when great quarterbacks step to the fore. Now, it's his time.
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Bad blood?
While Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt did his best to deny it, and Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy tried to downplay it, there just might be some hard feelings going into Sunday's NFC Wild Card playoff game.
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'He's going to be a great one'
Clay Matthews finished third in the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting on Tuesday, but Kevin Greene sees even bigger things in the first-year linebacker's future.
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Diff'rent Strokes
Packers coach Mike McCarthy and Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt took decidedly different approaches to the regular-season finale. Who was right? We'll find out Sunday.
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Packers-Cardinals notes: A record-setting run
The Packers defense set a few seasonal milestones with their performance in Sunday's victory over Arizona, none more impressive than their franchise record and No. 1 NFL ranking in run defense.
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Woodson proves irreplaceable
Charles Woodson's pick-six interception put him into the Packers' record book and improved his chances for a big award, but all he cares about is helping the Packers' postseason chances.
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Packers 33, Cardinals 7: Ready for a rematch
While the Packers have dominated the Cardinals twice -- in a preseason victory and again in Sunday's game, which Arizona treated like preseason -- the teams' next meeting is what counts.
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Packers-Cardinals Preview: 5 Things To Watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's regular-season finale -- and possible first-round playoff preview -- between the Green Bay Packers (10-5) and the Arizona Cardinals (10-5) at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.
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One-derful against the run
The Packers enter Sunday's regular-season finale as the NFL's top run defense, thanks to Dom Capers' 3-4 scheme and focus on making teams one-dimensional.
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Brains over brawn
Just as he did at the end of the 2007 season, Packers safety Atari Bigby is having an impact. But it's because of his smarts, not just brute force, this time around.
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Time to embrace the replacement
Both Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers have enjoyed outstanding seasons with their respective playoff-bound clubs, and Mike McCarthy says it's time for fans to acknowledge Rodgers as a worthy successor to No. 4.
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Chosen, but hoping not to serve
Three Packers -- Aaron Rodgers, Charles Woodson and Nick Collins -- were picked for the Pro Bowl Tuesday. But they won't be able to play if their team ends up in a bigger game a week later.
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What to do?
Packers coach Mike McCarthy and Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt have some decisions to make about Sunday's regular-season finale with a playoff rematch looming.
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Packers 48, Seahawks 10: Playoff bound
Aaron Rodgers and the Packers are headed for the NFC playoffs after a dominating bounce-back victory over Seattle Sunday -- just as the Green Bay quarterback expected.
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Redemption song: Crosby, Bush atone
One week after costly mistakes, kicker Mason Crosby and cornerback Jarrett Bush bring smiles to the faces of Mike McCarthy and their teammates.
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Running roughshod: Jackson, backs have field day
Brandon Jackson was able to hide from the Seattle defense on his third touchdown, but there was no hiding from the Packers' running backs in Sunday's 48-10 win.
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Packers notes: Reserve duty?
While there might not be much to play for when the playoff-bound Packers and Cardinals meet next Sunday, Matt Flynn and the backups are unlikely to get starting nods.
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Hasselbeck searches for answers
For the second straight week, Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck threw four interceptions. The result -- a loss -- was the same, too.
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'Just give me a chance'
Jarrett Bush knows how some fans feel about him -- even though he doesn't quite understand it -- and the Packers cornerback would love nothing more than to change their minds.
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Packers-Seahawks Preview: Five Things To Watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's game between the Green Bay Packers (9-5) and the Seattle Seahawks (5-9) at Lambeau Field.
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Not a creature was stirring
At the behest of coach Mike McCarthy, Lambeau Field was quiet on Christmas Day, with the players, coaches and staff spending the holiday with family and friends instead of working.
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Can't wait for Sunday
After allowing the game-winning touchdown last week in the Packers' loss to Pittsburgh, cornerback Josh Bell hopes to show fans who he really is against Seattle.
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Hasselbeck endures 'tough' times
The Seattle Seahawks quarterback and former Green Bay Packers backup returns to Lambeau Field with a struggling team and having taken a physical beating the last two years.
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Communication is key
While Brad Childress and Brett Favre tried to put their tiff behind them in Minnesota, Packers coach Mike McCarthy and quarterback Aaron Rodgers' communication couldn't be better.
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Crosby clears head, looks to improve
Mason Crosby admits he's in a slump, but the Packers kicker thinks things will improve after a vote of confidence from his coach and some time to get away.
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McCarthy: 'Zero interest in bringing in a kicker'
Despite Mason Crosby's weekly misses, Packers coach Mike McCarthy vowed Monday to stick with the struggling kicker the rest of the way.
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Packers-Steelers notes: Is Crosby on the clock?
After yet another miss by kicker Mason Crosby, Packers coach Mike McCarthy must decide if it's time to make a change.
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Rodgers comes up anything but empty
Using an array of spread formations and empty backfields, the Packers put the ball in Aaron Rodgers' hands 51 times Sunday -- and he delivered.
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Secondary becomes primary concern
After watching Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger throw for an astonishing 503 yards against the likes of Jarrett Bush and Josh Bell, the Packers pass defense has problems.
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Steelers 37, Packers 36: 'One play short'
In a game filled with big plays, the Packers' five-game winning streak -- and the Steelers' five-game losing streak -- come to an end on Mike Wallace's 19-yard TD catch as time expires.
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A beautiful mind
The Packers enter Sunday's game against Pittsburgh on the cusp of a playoff berth. And they can thank brilliant defensive coordinator Dom Capers for helping put them in position.
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You can go home again
Pittsburgh-native Mike McCarthy takes his team back to his old stomping grounds on Sunday, when the Packers face the Steelers, and the local boy tries to make good.
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Packers-Steelers Preview: 5 Things To Watch
We take a closer look at Sunday afternoon's game between the Green Bay Packers (9-4) and Pittsburgh Steelers (6-7) at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh.
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Taken for Grant-ed?
Packers halfback Ryan Grant ranks seventh in the NFL in rushing yards – despite playing in a pass-oriented offense. Although you probably hadn't noticed.
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Out in the cold
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter Sunday having lost five straight games and seven on the season -- none by more than a touchdown. Those tough times should sound familiar to Packers fans.
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Show them the money
While linebacker Brandon Chillar got his contract extension -- thanks, in a weird way, to Larry Fitzgerald -- Nick Collins is hoping Chillar's deal leads to one for him.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Brad Jones
Our popular weekly segment returns with the rookie outside linebacker, who talks about his new job as a starter, his study of astrophysics at the University of Colorado and his ability to play the viola, among other topics.
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Chillar gets his, but what about Collins, Hawk?
The Packers rewarded free agent-to-be Brandon Chillar with a four-year, $21 million extention Monday, but what it means for safety Nick Collins and linebacker A.J. Hawk remains to be seen.
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Packers notes: Defense goes 'psycho'
With four linemen on the injury report, defensive coordinator Dom Capers got creative and used a wild five-linebacker, one-lineman defense in Sunday's victory over Chicago.
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Capers' plan comes together
Defensive coordinator Dom Capers called the right play at the right time -- a Tramon Williams blitz -- and Nick Collins came up with a game-turning interception as a result.
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Another miss, but no additional worry
While Mason Crosby was wide right on a crucial field goal attempt Sunday, Packers coach Mike McCarthy claimed he wasn't worrying about his struggling kicker.
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Taken for Grant-ed: Back breaks free
Packers running back Ryan Grant got things started with a bang Sunday, and while the rest of the game wasn't as easy, his big run to begin the game provided a big lift.
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Packers 21, Bears 14: No blowout, but a big win
The way things started, the Packers appeared on their way to an easy victory Sunday. It ended up being tougher than expected -- but could they be better off as a result?
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Williams to Bears: 'Bring it on'
With Charles Woodson on the other side and all the flags thrown at him Monday night, Tramon Williams expects the Bears to go after him. That's just fine with him -- and his head coach.
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Packers-Bears Preview: 5 Things To Watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's game between the Green Bay Packers (8-4) and Chicago Bears (5-7) at Soldier Field.
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Finley's return brings back 'mojo'
The Packers offensive reawakening has neatly coincided with tight end Jermichael Finley getting healthy, proving that the second-year tight end is an offensive difference-maker.
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Not kicking himself
While Mason Crosby knows there's lots of people worried about his confidence -- and his field-goal accuracy -- the Packers kicker is fine, and he expects to make some big ones down the stretch for his team.
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Born to run
As good as Aaron Rodgers has been with his arm this season, the Green Bay Packers quarterback's feet that have been just as integral to his playmaking. Just ask the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Baltimore Ravens.
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Numbers crunch
Greg Jennings says he doesn't know his statistics for this season. If he did, he'd know that they were down precipitously from last year. If the Packers weren't winning, that'd be a problem.
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'Just another day in Wisconsin'
While New England coach Bill Belichick was sending four players home for being late to a meeting because of snow there, Packers coach Mike McCarthy was snow-plowing his driveway and staffers were driving players to work.
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On the rise, now on the road
The Packers' fortunes are definitely on the up-and-up, but to continue their winning ways, they'll have to play well down in Chicago on Sunday.
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Packers-Ravens notes: Flag day, Finley and Driver's follies
While the Packers' 27-14 victory over Baltimore Monday night was flag-filled, tight end Jermichael Finley was a prime-time player and wideout Donald Driver had some good -- and bad -- moments.
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Getting defensive about their reputation
The Baltimore Ravens came in as the defense known for being tough and physical. The Green Bay Packers sent a clear message during Monday night's 27-14 victory that their defense deserves a similar reputation.
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Packers 27, Ravens 14: Measuring up well
In a game that was supposed to be a measuring stick for how far the playoff hopefuls had come, the Packers defense restored order in time to key a fourth straight win.
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Tauscher: 'It has been a lot of fun'
It's been a long road back for veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher, who tore the ACL in his left knee -- for the second time -- a year ago today. But as difficult as it was at times, he's certainly enjoying himself now.
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'A long time ago'
The last time the Packers and Ravens squared off on Monday Night Football, a fresh-faced 22-year-old rookie quarterback mopped up a 48-3 loss. That was 2005. Aaron Rodgers has come a long way since.
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Barbre bounces back, looks ahead
It doesn't look like the Packers will need Allen Barbre to play left tackle Monday night against Baltimore, but the former starter at right tackle is working hard to come back from his early-season struggles -- with an eye on the future.
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Packers-Ravens Preview: 5 Things To Watch
We take a closer look at Monday night's game between the Packers (7-4) and Baltimore Ravens (6-5) at Lambeau Field.
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Lang sidelined, line dancing continues
With rookie tackle T.J. Lang, one of the stabilizing forces on the offensive line, out with a concussion suffered in practice Thursday, the Packers could be forced to shuffle the deck up front Monday night against Baltimore.
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Thompson suffers neck injury; hospitalized overnight
Packers linebacker Jeremy Thompson suffered what the team called a "neck sprain" at the end of Friday's practice, leaving him hospitalized and running back Kregg Lumpkin, who was involved in the collision, shaken.
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Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow ...
... and if it does, the Packers will keep throwing the ball. Despite the conventional wisdom that says bad weather means more running plays, coach Mike McCarthy still puts the ball in the air late in the year.
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No more kicking themselves?
Punter Jeremy Kapinos and kicker Mason Crosby have had some issues with inconsistency this season, but the Packers need them to kick it into gear as the season winds down and the playoffs approach.
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Leaping over the so-called 'rookie wall'
Packers rookie defensive lineman B.J. Raji doesn't believe in the 'rookie wall, and given the way his season started, he just might avoid it altogether anyway -- and that's good news for his team down the stretch.
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Things are looking up
After essentially a bonus bye week thanks to their Thanksgiving Day victory over Detroit, Mike McCarthy and the Packers are 7-4 and a healthy, confident bunch entering the final five games of the regular season.
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Packers notes: Rodgers, replacements deliver
While quarterback Aaron Rodgers was running the offense with precision and the occasional great deep ball, the fill-ins on defense were doing their jobs well enough to beat Detroit Thursday.
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Not so special -- again
The Packers were able to overcome Mason Crosby's missed field goal -- after they started the game with Jordy Nelson's fumble on the opening kickoff -- but their special teams remain a concern.
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Woodson gives, then takes from Lions
Packers cornerback Charles Woodson made a $2 million donation to the University of Michigan's Children's Hospital, then spent the rest of his Thanksgiving taking over the game against Detroit.
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Packers 34, Lions 12: Thankful to avoid an upset
The Packers' Thanksgiving Day didn't get off to a very good start against the Lions, but they turned things around -- and now find themselves in good shape for a late-season push.
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Packers-Lions Preview: 5 Things to Watch
We take a closer look at the big Thanksgiving Day showdown between the Packers and the Lions at Ford Field.
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Capers, defense face decisions
After Aaron Kampman and Al Harris' season-ending knee injuries, Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers must figure out how to make up for their losses while staying aggressive -- and using Charles Woodson wisely.
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The Replacements: Fill-ins look to step up
With Al Harris and Aaron Kampman done for the year, players like Brandon Underwood and several other young backups will play key roles in Thursday's game at Detroit.
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Roaring Lions? Stafford's throw helps rebuilding process
While it was only one game -- and Matthew Stafford may not even be able to play Thursday, never mind following it up with a win over the Packers -- Detroit's victory over Cleveland last week was a big step for the Lions.
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Kampman, Harris – and Packers – face uncertain futures
After losing Aaron Kampman and Al Harris -- two veterans with 235 career NFL starts and four Pro Bowls between them -- to torn ACLs, the Packers' season is in doubt. The players' futures are also up in the air.
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Packers 30, 49ers 24: Not quite convincing
While they dominated the first half, ran out the final 6 minutes of clock and improved to 6-4 on the season, the Packers lost Al Harris and Aaron Kampman to knee injuries and still make you wonder how good they are.
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Packers lose Harris, Kampman for season
The Packers' victory over San Francisco Sunday came at a huge price, with veteran cornerback Al Harris and outside linebacker Aaron Kampman both suffering season-ending knee injuries during the second half.
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Ground control: Packers run over 49ers
Facing one of the NFL's best rushing defenses, Ryan Grant and the Packers ran over the 49ers when the game was on the line, grinding out the final 6 minutes of clock in a 30-24 victory.
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Rodgers gets his 'revenge'
Facing the team that snubbed him at the top of the 2005 NFL Draft, Aaron Rodgers threw for 344 yards and two touchdowns against the 49ers Sunday with an effective mixture of quick throws.
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Packers notes: Finley, Jennings return to fore
The Packers offense got lifts Sunday from tight end Jermichael Finley, who returned from a knee injury; wide receiver Greg Jennings, who broke out of a slump; and right tackle Mark Tauscher, who's rounding into form.
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'That's what this defense is'
After a dominating performance last week against a high-powered Dallas offense, defensive coordinator Dom Capers' players are hoping for more of the same the rest of the way, starting against the 49ers.
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Packers-49ers Preview: 5 Things To Watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's matchup between the 5-4 Green Bay Packers and 4-5 San Francisco 49ers.
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Line dancing: Amid injuries, shuffle continues
While the Packers' offensive line got some good news Friday -- Scott Wells has been cleared to play after last week's concussion -- the line remains in flux ... exactly what Mike McCarthy wanted to avoid this year.
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On the comeback trail
While some folks didn't notice that Aaron Kampman missed last week's game with a concussion he suffered against Tampa Bay on Nov. 8, the defensive end-turned-linebacker is thankful to be back in the lineup.
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Happy to be here
While former second-round pick Brian Brohm was getting his fresh start with the Buffalo Bills, the Packers were replacing him on the practice squad with an enthusiastic Mike Reilly. Their differing demeanors were undeniable.
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'Things happen for a reason'
It's been over four years since the San Francisco 49ers picked Alex Smith No. 1 overall, while Aaron Rodgers fell to the Green Bay Packers at No. 24. What a long, strange trip it's been for both.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Cullen Jenkins
The Packers veteran defensive end joins us for our weekly installment of off-the-field chit-chat.
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Back in the running
While still a flawed football team, the Packers are in the thick of the NFC playoff mix with seven games to play. Just don't tell Mike McCarthy that.
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Packers notes: Officials drop the ball, Lang solid
While referee Jeff Triplette's crew had a rough day -- especially when it came to replay challenges -- Packers rookie right tackle T.J. Lang turned in a much more consistent effort than the men in stripes.
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Coming through when it counts
While Aaron Rodgers endured plenty of criticism -- both during the week and on the morning NFL pregame shows -- the quarterback made the plays when the Packers needed him Sunday.
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Pressure cooker: Woodson leads dominating defense
When defensive coordinator Dom Capers unleashed the blitz on Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys, Charles Woodson & Co. delivered.
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Packers 17, Cowboys 7: Proof Positive
Amid a tumultuous week, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers liked his team's resolve. And it showed in Sunday's must-win victory over Dallas at Lambeau Field.
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Goin' Deep: Despite protection problems, Packers still go long
While Mike McCarthy has had trouble keeping quarterback Aaron Rodgers upright, that hasn't stopped him from playing to Rodgers' long-ball strength.
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Packers-Cowboys Preview: 5 things to watch
We take a closer look at the Packers' must-win game against the streaking Dallas Cowboys Sunday at Lambeau Field.
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Fire storm? McCarthy denies role in employee's dismissal
As if he doesn't have enough problems on the field, Mike McCarthy is now facing questions about whether he had a part-time worker fired for something he said to the Packers coach.
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On move again, Lang settles in at right tackle
He worked at right tackle in the offseason, right and left guard in training camp and left tackle earlier this year. Now, rookie T.J. Lang is set to start at right tackle Sunday against Dallas.
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Rodgers 'must win' to silence critics
The Packers quarterback won't use the term 'must win,' but he knows his team has to beat Dallas Sunday to silence critics -- and get the season headed back in the right direction.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Matt Flynn
In our weekly get-to-know-you session, we sit down with Packers backup quarterback Matt Flynn.
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McCarthy confident problems are 'correctable'
While Raheem Morris and the previously winless Buccaneers were celebrating their first victory, Mike McCarthy and the Packers are searching for answers.
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Packers notes: Special teams struggle, Tauscher 'lucky'
For the second straight week, the Packers' shoddy play on special teams proves devastating, while right tackle Mark Tauscher's knee injury isn't thought to be 'major.'
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'I'm surprised he gets up sometimes'
Once again, Aaron Rodgers took a beating. But this time, Mike McCarthy suggested that the Packers quarterback is also to blame.
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Buccaneers 38, Packers 28: A painful history lesson
When Hank Stram and Don Coryell's teams lost to the winless Buccaneers in 1977, they lost their jobs. Mike McCarthy is still gainfully employed, but he needs to turn his team's fortunes around ASAP.
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Packers-Buccaneers Preview: 5 things to watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's game between the 4-3 Packers and the 0-7 Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.
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Rodgers: 'We've all got to take blame at the end of the day'
While the bulk of the blame for the 31 sacks the Packers have allowed goes to the offensive line, Aaron Rodgers says there have been a few plays that are his fault.
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Havner: 'It's been pretty neat'
Linebacker-turned-tight end Spencer Havner may not be a household name yet, but fans -- and opposing defenses -- are starting to catch onto him.
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Frankenstein's out, so Hawk likely in
As much as Packers inside linebackers coach Winston Moss would like to blend A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop's skill sets, Hawk is Brandon Chillar's likely replacement.
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Who needs practice? Not Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers isn't going Allen Iverson -- "We talkin' 'bout practice," AI once famously said -- but the Packers quarterback does play well when he misses practice time.
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Veterans Day: Clifton, Tauscher set to start
After Aaron Rodgers was sacked six more times against Minnesota, Mike McCarthy came thisclose to naming the two veteran tackles as starters for Sunday's game.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Ryan Grant
The Packers running back is this week's victim in our regular Tuesday get-to-know-you feature.
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Tauscher, Clifton could be options
The Packers coaches may go with veterans Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton at tackle, replacing Allen Barbre and T.J. Lang.
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McCarthy: 'There is a lot of football left to be played'
While Sunday's loss to Brett Favre and the Vikings was demoralizing for many fans, Packers coach Mike McCarthy believes he can right the ship.
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Packers notes: Jolly makes no apologies
The Packers defensive end commits a costly -- and foolish -- personal foul penalty to set up the Vikings' first touchdown, then shows no remorse afterward.
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Rodgers takes a beating
For the second time in as many games against Minnesota, the Packers quarterback what bruised and battered by the Vikings' defense.
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Favre: 'It was about what I expected'
Brett Favre certainly heard the boos Sunday, but in the end, his four-touchdown performance was more than enough to silence his critics.
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Vikings 38, Packers 26: Favre has his way -- again
Amid the hype of his two games against his former team, Brett Favre hasn't just met expectations. He's surpassed them, as he did Sunday.
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Looking to throw Favre a change-up
Defensive coordinator Dom Capers endured some criticism after Brett Favre carved up the Packers' defense in the teams' first meeting. Sunday, he'll have to find a way to pressure the ex-Packers QB.
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Run to Daylight: Grant key vs. Vikings
The Packers hopes of beating the Vikings Sunday may hinge on their ability to run the football. And Ryan Grant, the last back to crack 100 yards in a game against the Williams Wall, could be the difference-maker.
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Packers-Vikings Preview: 5 things to watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's game between the Packers and Vikings at Lambeau Field -- beyond all the Brett Favre-centric chatter.
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Longwell: 'I wouldn’t expect Packers fans to cheer for a Viking'
Vikings kicker Ryan Longwell spent nine seasons with the Packers before crossing the border into Minnesota in 2006. He may be the only one who knows what Brett Favre is in for on Sunday.
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Line dancing: Packers search for starting five
While coach Mike McCarthy says he hasn't settled on a starting offensive line for Sunday's game against Minnesota and All-Pro defensive end Jared Allen, the picture is starting to come into sharper focus.
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Rodgers: No self-pity amid Favre drama
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was essentially an innocent bystander during last year's ugly divorce between Brett Favre and the franchise. But Favre's replacement never saw himself that way.
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Favre: 'It's one of 16'
As he prepares to come back to Lambeau Field as a member of the Minnesota Vikings, ex-Packers quarterback Brett Favre is doing his best to convince everyone -- and perhaps himself -- that it's no big deal.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Clay Matthews
The Packers rookie linebacker steps into the arena for our weekly get-to-know-you session.
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Confident, but ...
Coach Mike McCarthy feels good about his team entering Sunday's showdown with the Minnesota Vikings, but a few more receivers sure would help the cause.
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Packers notes: Lang gets the job done
Rookie T.J. Lang filled in for Chad Clifton at left tackle and played well. If Clifton can't play next week, he'll need to do it again against Minnesota.
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Grant makes McCarthy's job easy
The Packers running back carried 27 times for 148 yards against Cleveland Sunday, rewarding coach Mike McCarthy for his play-calling.
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Havner finds a home
With his 45-yard touchdown in Sunday's 31-3 win over Cleveland, Spencer Havner made it official: He's no longer a linebacker playing tight end.
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Packers 31, Browns 3: Bring on the Vikings
For the second week in a row, the Packers did what they were supposed to against an inferior opponent. Next up: Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings.
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The son also rises
Clay Matthews III returns with the Packers to Cleveland, his dad's old stomping grounds, looking to stir memories of his father's career with the Browns.
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Packers-Browns preview: 5 things to watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's Packers-Browns game in Cleveland.
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Jones ready for his close-up
Packers No. 3 receiver James Jones' first two-plus NFL seasons have been up-and-down, but he's going to be vital to the team's success with Jordy Nelson out with a knee injury.
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Hawk: 'Not my ideal situation'
Inside linebacker A.J. Hawk is trying to meet high expectations and make more plays despite a reduced role in the Packers' defense.
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Joe Thomas a Packer? In your dreams
The Cleveland Browns Pro Bowl tackle heard the rumors about his home-state team being interested, but he knew it was highly unlikely.
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Batman returns: Green rejoins Packers
The Packers continued their everything-old-is-new-again approach by signing halfback Ahman Green Wednesday, nine days after bringing back veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Charles Woodson
The Packers veteran cornerback shares his thoughts on a variety of subjects in our weekly off-the-field sit-down.
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Packers notes: Green works out for old team
The Packers brought in a familiar face for a look-see Monday: Ahman Green, the franchise's second-leading all-time rusher.
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'I don't think we're not disciplined'
Packers coach Mike McCarthy doesn't like his team's 43 penalties on the season, but he didn't seem overly concerned Monday.
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Packers 26, Lions 0: Defense carries the day
While the Packers were fortunate they were playing the Detroit Lions Sunday, their shutout victory still counts the same -- and doesn't come with an asterisk.
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Matthews, Kampman make their marks
Outside linebackers Clay Matthews and Aaron Kampman set the tone on defense for the Packers during Sunday's shutout of Detroit.
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Crooked line: Clifton hurt, Spitz sits
The Packers' season-long problems on the offensive line still aren't resolved -- and might be getting worse.
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Flag day: Packers' penalty problems continue
The Packers committed a whopping 13 penalties for 130 yards during Sunday's 26-0 victory over Detroit.
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'This is a very important stretch for us'
In the next four weeks, the Packers have a window of opportunity before the schedule gets difficult during the second half of the year.
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Packers-Lions Preview: 5 things to watch
We take a closer look at Sunday's game between the Packers and the Lions at Lambeau Field.
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Impact player: Matthews' role grows
Rookie outside linebacker Clay Matthews will have plenty of chances to make plays like his fumble return for a touchdown against Minnesota, now that coordinator Dom Capers intends to expand his role in the defense.
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Bigby's return bolsters defense
Safety Atari Bigby's anticipated return to the starting lineup has his teammates abuzz -- and is stirring hopes of a return to his 2007 form.
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'We need to all do our jobs, myself included'
Aaron Rodgers wouldn't throw his offensive linemen under the bus Wednesday, but he knows that they -- and he -- have to play better to fix the Packers' offense.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Tramon Williams
The Packers' nickel cornerback -- and 12th starter on defense -- sits down for this week's off-the-field chat.
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Inaction hero: Jennings wants the ball
Greg Jennings' request was a polite one: "Get me the doggone ball."
'Tausch' returns
The Packers troubled offensive line should get a lift from 10-year veteran Mark Tauscher, who signed with the team Monday.
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Kampman's role? 'It is what it is'
Packers defensive end-turned-outside linebacker Aaron Kampman is struggling at his new position, but he's not complaining publicly about it.
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Picking up the pieces
After a dispiriting loss to the Minnesota Vikings, Packers coach Mike McCarthy and his staff have a bye week to figure out what ails the team.
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Tauscher works out, signing imminent
The Packers worked out veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher Tuesday and are on the verge of re-signing him.
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Vikings 30, Packers 23: Getting what they deserve
Brett Favre got what he wanted -- a win over his former team -- while the Packers have got lots of questions entering their bye week.
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'The good Lord answered my prayers'
Brett Favre didn't know how he'd feel facing his former team, but he was masterful.
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Shooting from the lip
Packers cornerback Charles Woodson didn't hold back his postgame criticism of GM Ted Thompson and defensive coordinator Dom Capers.
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Emotionally Charged
Monday night, Brett Favre won't be the only one trying to keep his emotions in check.
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Packers-Vikings preview: 5 things to watch
We take a closer look at Monday night's game between the Packers and the Vikings at the Metrodome.
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Forget Favre -- Peterson's the problem
Amid all the Brett Favre-centric talk leading up to Monday night's game, the Packers aren't forgetting the Vikings' biggest offensive threat: Halfback Adrian Peterson.
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Another week, another challenge for Colledge
Filling in for Chad Clifton at left tackle hasn't been easy for Daryn Colledge, but this week, the challenge is that much greater against Jared Allen.
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For Packers, it's about 12, not 4
While the focus of Monday night's Packers-Vikings game is Brett Favre taking on his former team, Aaron Rodgers' teammates have a different view.
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'It wasn't about revenge to begin with'
Brett Favre said during an uncomfortable conference call Thursday that he isn't out for revenge against his old team Monday night.
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Capers searches '4' answers
Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers hasn't had a lot of success against Brett Favre over the years, but he's hoping that changes Monday night.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Greg Jennings
Our latest Tuesday chat is with the Packers wide receiver, who talks about his pregame rituals, family life and much more.
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Clifton could return
Left tackle Chad Clifton could be back after missing Sunday's game with an ankle injury, giving the much-maligned line a lift.
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Big game? What big game?
Packers coach Mike McCarthy and Vikings coach Brad Childress spent Monday trying to downplay the significance of Brett Favre's first game against his former team.
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Packers 36, Rams 17: Good enough
Green Bay plays only slightly better than struggling St. Louis for the road win on Sunday.
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Next up? Favre-A-Palooza
Immediately following the Packers' win in St. Louis, fans, players, and reporters shift thoughts to next Monday's NFC North showdown.
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'Big Okie' just OK
Green Bay needs to step up run defense or they'll get run over by Minnesota's run game.
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Packers notes: Driver reads, succeeds
Packers' wide receiver takes it upon himself to prove you shouldn't always believe what you read.
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Rhythm method
Despite their protection problems, the Packers may need to try something different to get quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the passing game going.
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Packers-Rams: Five things to watch
Taking a closer look at Sunday's match-up between the Packers and the Rams at the Edward Jones Dome.
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Giving it the ol' Colledge try
With Chad Clifton sidelined, the Packers are counting on Daryn Colledge to rise to the occasion at left tackle.
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Drop-kicking themselves
The Packers are leading the league in dropped passes after two weeks, and are looking to drop the problem like a bad habit.
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Safety shuffle
The Packers' moves at safety -- releasing Aaron Rouse and signing free agent Matt Giordano -- leave the team thin at the position.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: A.J. Hawk
The Packers linebacker shares his thoughts on a wide range of off-the-field topics.
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Protection racket
The Packers look to fix what ails their offense most: Poor pass blocking.
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Bengals 31, Packers 24: 'Sad' state of affairs
Charles Woodson didn't mince words. “We got our ass whipped," the veteran cornerback said. "There’s really no other way to say it.”
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Taking a beating
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been sacked 10 times in two games -- the most sacks absorbed by a Packers quarterback over two games since 1998.
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Woodson shows the way
On a day when the Green Bay Packers' defense struggled, cornerback Charles Woodson was the lone bright spot.
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Whistle blows out final chance
What might have been a game-tying play never happened for the Green Bay Packers, thanks to a false start penalty that ended the game.
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Packers notes: A leap, and a shutout
Cincinnati's Chad Ochocinco got his Lambeau Leap, while the other 85, Green Bay's Greg Jennings, had a rough day Sunday.
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Packers GameDay: Close calls, lessons learned
The Cincinnati Bengals lost a heartbreaker last week. The Green Bay Packers lost seven of them last year. Such losses can pay dividends if put to good use.
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Based on Colledge experience, he'll play
Daryn Colledge has never missed an NFL game, and he doesn't plan to miss Sunday's.
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Hangin' Tough: Barbre battles back
Allen Barbre's first NFL start was more nightmare than dream come true. But he's focused on making it a one-time thing.
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Tuesdays With Wilde: Aaron Rodgers
Given the popularity of our "Tuesdays With Wilde" feature, we thought we'd make it easier to find. Here's our chat with Aaron Rodgers from earlier this week.
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Hard Knocks with the Packers? Hardly
While they'd probably make for compelling theater, the Green Bay Packers aren't going to be featured on the popular HBO show any time soon.
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'There’s no need to throw me out or throw beer on me, because I love you guys'
Chad Ochocinco plans to do a Lambeau Leap if he scores a touchdown Sunday.
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Not just taking up space
Cullen Jenkins and Johnny Jolly showed Sunday night that the defensive linemen in the 3-4 defense do more than just get in the way of blockers.
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Teachable moment
The Packers' 21-15 season-opening victory was exciting, but left plenty of room for improvement -- and lessons to learn.
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Packers 21, Bears 15: Grand opening
With the game on the line, Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings come through in dramatic fashion.
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Packers-Bears notes: Defense shines, Barbre struggles
While the Packers' defense made life miserable for Jay Cutler, right tackle Allen Barbre had the same effect on his quarterback, Aaron Rodgers.
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Packers GameDay: "Ain't going to be many people who can beat us"
Charles Woodson can't wait for the full-fledged unveiling of the Packers' new 3-4 defense. "You ever see those horses on the racetrack before they open those doors?" he says. "We’re ready to run.”
Fearless (or is that fearful?) NFL predictions for 2009
Will our NFL writer's predictions for the 2009 season lead to marital discord in the WIlde house?
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Mismatch? Maybe
The Packers' passing game could have a field day Sunday night against the Bears. At least, that's how it looks on paper.
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Packers looking for 'special' start to season
The Packers' special-teams units were anything but special last year. That has to change -- starting Sunday night against the Bears.
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Cutler: King of Chicago
Abe Froman might've been the Sausage King of Chicago in Ferris Bueller's day, but Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is royalty there now.
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Packers' Kampman settles into new role
Packers defensive end-turned-outside linebacker Aaron Kampman is still feeling his way in the new 3-4 defense. But he's committed to excelling, just as he did in the previous scheme.
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Packers notes: Will Raji be ready?
Packers defensive lineman B.J. Raji's status for Sunday night's game is up in the air because of an ankle injury.
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Packers/Bears Live Game Blog
Join Bill Johnson for a live game blog during Packers/Bears this Sunday. It's completely interactive so you can share your thoughts, ask questions and even get the scoop at halftime with ESPN Milwaukee's own Jason Wilde. Click here.
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Jason Wilde's Blog
Check out Jason's frequent updates from Lambeau Field and other weekly features. And, of course, any breaking news with the Green & Gold.
Click to read Jason's blog
Packers' Swain finds a new locker-room home
For the entire 2008 season, Brett Swain had the worst seat in the house. His view will be better this year.
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Packers notes: Martin clears the air
Derrick Martin used phrases like “hard-nosed,” “fast to the ball” and “like to hit” to describe himself Monday. Then, he wanted to clarify something he’s not: A drug user.
Sticking together: Kuhn, Hall part of unusual fullback threesome
John Kuhn didn't expect the Green Bay Packers to keep three fullbacks on their roster. He's sure glad they did, though -- and Korey Hall, too.
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Harrell's career isn't over ... yet
Justin Harrell’s season is over, but the oft-injured defensive end’s career with the Green Bay Packers is not.
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With roster set, Thompson likes Packers' outlook
When the dust settled Sunday from what may have been the Green Bay Packers’ busiest final cutdown day since Ted Thompson took over in 2005, Thompson was left with a 53-man roster – and eight-player practice squad – that had him feeling pretty good about his team’s chances in 2009.
Brohm, Smith, Martin headline Packers' cuts
The Green Bay Packers’ final cutdown day had a little bit of everything Saturday: A trade, a few surprise cuts and some interesting imbalances on the final 53-man roster.
Rodgers: No self-pity amid Favre drama
By JASON WILDE
GREEN BAY – Aaron Rodgers never saw himself as a victim of circumstance.
Amid all the Brett Favre-related drama during the Green Bay Packers’ 2008 training camp, Rodgers, charged with replacing an icon (whose retirement had lasted all of four months) as the team’s new quarterback, endured more than his share of abuse – abuse that Favre’s most ardent supporters probably should have directed toward Packers general manager Ted Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy, if anyone.
Instead, Rodgers recalled in the days leading up to the 2008 regular-season opener, he had a U.S. serviceman in Alaska tell him during a goodwill mission that he’d never measure up to the legend he was replacing; one fan hurl an F-bomb at him as he punched his code into the players’ parking lot keypad; had a 10-year-old yell “Rodgers, you suck!” at him on his way to one training-camp practice; and had to block out chants of “We want Brett! We Want Brett!” as he went through individual drills on Clarke Hinkle Field.
For most of Wednesday, with reporters trying every which way to get him to talk about Favre’s return to Lambeau Field on Sunday as a member of the Minnesota Vikings, Rodgers deftly deflected any and all land-mine questions. But when the enormous crush of reporters dispersed from around his locker, he opened up – for really the first time since the tumultuous summer of 2008 – about his thinking and approach as he found himself in the middle of a melodrama not of his making.
All Rodgers had done was fall down the 2005 draft board to the Packers at No. 24 and get picked by Thompson as Favre’s heir apparent. And then spend three years on the bench waiting for his turn.
Not once, he said Wednesday, did he feel sorry for himself.
“The reason I didn’t feel like that is because I feel like a stance like that would have portrayed me as wanting some sort of sympathy or self-pity on my part, and I never felt like that,” said Rodgers, who enters Sunday’s game against Favre and the Vikings having completed 121 of 184 passes (65.8 percent) for 1,702 yards, with 11 touchdowns and only two interceptions for a 110.8 passer rating, the second-highest in the NFL.
“I felt like I’d waited for three years to do something that I always wanted to do since I was 3 years old watching Joe Montana and running pass patterns with my dad in the back yard. That’s the way I looked at it. I didn’t look at it like I was going through something that was unfair to me, or I was innocent. I just tried to stick to my true character, answer questions honestly and realize that … I still felt at the time like I was going to get an opportunity to do something I always wanted to do. So that’s how I viewed it.”
And when he got that chance last season, he tried to make the most of it. While the Packers lost seven games by four points or fewer to finish 6-10, Rodgers started all 16 games and had outstanding numbers (4,038 yards, 28 TDs, 13 INTs, 93.8 rating) for a first-year starter. While the number of wins wasn’t good enough, he did feel the fans come around on how they felt about him, culminating in a standing ovation as he left the field following the Packers’ season-ending victory over
“I feel like the reception I got last year after
Rodgers has acknowledged in the past that his relationship with Favre is far from good – after reaching out to Favre following his retirement, he never heard back, and other than their meeting at the Metrodome on Oct. 5, the two have not talked – but chalked it up to something he couldn’t do much about.
“There may have been emotions involved or may not have been,” Rodgers said. “It was out of my control, so I didn’t worry about it.”
That was essentially his approach throughout the Favre controversy, from Favre contacting the Packers on
“I just tried to stay focused on the things I can control. I think I learned that as a 21-year-old sitting in the green room (at the 2005 NFL Draft) firsthand,” Rodgers said Wednesday. “So through the entire process (that) summer, 95 percent of it was out of my control. The thing I could control was getting ready to play. And everything I was hearing from the organization was, I was going to be the guy, so until I heard differently, that was my focus.”
And despite the Vikings’ 6-1 record and Favre’s hot start at age 40, the Packers remain happy with their decision to make Rodgers their guy. On Wednesday, Rodgers was named the NFC’s offensive player of the month for October, when he completed 70 of 94 passes for 988 yards with seven TDs, two INTs and a 123.9 passer rating. And McCarthy had to admit that maybe the team has been taking him for granted a little bit.
“It's funny; it reminds me a little bit of the way my father raised me. You never really knew where you stood,” McCarthy said. “Aaron Rodgers, he just won the NFC offensive player of the month, and we haven't even given him a game ball yet. I think we need to take a closer look at how we're judging him.
“He's a young man, he's talented, he works hard, and he deserves everything that he accomplishes. He's just doing a really good job of running the offense and I can't say enough about that.
“I'll say this about Aaron: Aaron wants to play football. He wants to win games. He's human, just like all of us. Has (the Favre situation) been discussed? Yes, we've talked about it, but it doesn't do anything good to take it any further that. It's a great situation for Aaron Rodgers. He's taken full advantage of it, and we're proud that he's our quarterback. That's the facts.”
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