Packers 48 Cowboys 32: Game Balls & Lame Calls
Green Bay shows they are nobody's underdog.
By KenLass
It is a rare thing to be able to watch a team make exponential improvement every week right before your eyes. The journey from being youthful and rebuilding, to poised, clutch and dominating is usually a long and winding one. But this Green Bay Packers team has taken a short cut. In a month they have gone from a 6-8 also ran that couldn’t stop anybody, to the proverbial team that nobody wants to play.
Certainly the Dallas Cowboys didn’t take them seriously. The ‘Boys played as though they felt they could win the game just by coming out of the locker room. By the time the Packers knocked them to the mat in the first half, they were too stunned to recover. Green Bay played like a freight train running through a crossing block. They set the home team up with a powerful running game, and then finished them off with big play passes.
The game plan from Matt LaFleur and his offensive coaches was brilliant, constantly scheming broad holes through the front seven for large chunks of rushing yardage, and then baffling the secondary with dazzling routes that resulted in Packer receivers, mostly Romeo Doubs, finding themselves almost ridiculously wide open deep downfield.
Joe Barry’s defensive plan was effective as well, starting out with a zone look and falling into match-ups after the snap. Dak Prescott spent much of the game looking like someone who had lost his car keys. The result was a 48-32 whupping, and an announcement that this Green Bay team is no longer some sort of Cinderella.
If the Packers were motivated by nobody giving them a chance against the Cowboys, then they should really be pumped up next weekend, when even fewer will give them a chance to beat the number one seeded 49ers.
GAME BALLS
Jordan Love
All he did was put up a perfect passer rating until he threw an incompletion on his last attempt, which dropped him to a mere 157.2. He’s been getting a ton of hype, attention and praise lately and I feared it might go to his young head and affect his play. Turns out, it did. It made him better. You can see him becoming more confident in his ability to control his body and launch accurate throws from several different arm positions, often with his feet off the ground. But I am most impressed with his improved vision. On the final touchdown he rolled right and found his receiver to the boundary covered. At the last instant he saw a miniscule opening over the middle to Doubs and sidearmed an absolute bullet into his arms. That was an elite play. He finished with 272 yards, three scores, no picks. Nobody in the playoffs is playing any better.
Aaron Jones
Love will get the attention, but Jones was the assassin. All of the big passing plays are what you will see on the Sportscenter highlights. But it was Jones’ constant body blows that ripped the heart out of the Cowboys. Five, seven, ten yard gains, bursting, twisting and plowing ahead. He forced Dallas to stack the box, opening up the secondary for big plays. By the time Dallas waved the white flag he had bludgeoned them for 118 yards and three scores. He takes a beating, but so far he’s holding up. Green Bay’s success depends on it.
Romeo Doubs
He took a backseat to Jayden Reed for most of the season, but the second year receiver picked a perfect time to show what he can do. Running precise routes, usually curling over the middle, he worked himself wide open to the tune of 6 catches for 151 yards and a score. He played so well the Packers didn’t even need Reed, who had no catches, nor Christian Watson, who caught just one. Dontayvion Wicks added a 20 yard scoring catch, and Luke Musgrave scored with a 40 yard strike. I’d hate to be the defensive coordinator who has to figure out how to defend these interchangeable receivers wearing green and gold.
A host of honorable mentions. Preston Smith had three key plays, a tackle for loss, a timely sack of Dak Prescott, and a batted down pass in the red zone that stopped a drive in the third quarter when the game was still in the balance. The pass rush had just three sacks but the four man front generated consistent pressure and had Dak on the run all day. The offensive line masterfully blew holes through the vaunted Cowboy defense creating running lanes for Aaron Jones. A pick six by Darnell Savage and a spectacular interception by Jaire Alexander. It takes a team and a host of contributors came through.
LAME CALLS
Pulling Starters Too Soon
Ahead 48-16, LaFleur made the decision to pull several defensive and offensive starters just midway through the fourth quarter. The Cowboys immediately scored, forced a three and out, and then scored again. Just like that, they had turned a blowout into a two score game with 3:25 still to play. LaFleur sheepishly had to put the first teamers back in the game. This was a playoff game. You don’t mess around pulling starters. You don’t take your foot off the gas, especially against the most explosive offense in the league. Hopefully that was a lesson learned.
Another Missed Extra Point
Six of them now by Anders Carlson. Not acceptable. Hard to tell if the problem is with the long snapper or with the kicker but it has to stop. Carlson also continues to struggle with short kickoffs. One was returned 45 yards, setting up the Cowboys first score at the end of the half.
THREE AND OUT
-- Matt LaFleur made another silly challenge in the third quarter on a catch by former Wisconsin Badger Jake Ferguson. Replays clearly showed the catch was solid. It was a waste of a timeout, especially with his team leading comfortably at 41-16. Either LaFleur is getting bad advice from upstairs, or he needs glasses.
-- 48 points not only tied the most ever scored by the Packers in a playoff game, but were the most ever allowed in a playoff game by the Cowboys. Green Bay scored 48 in that memorable playoff win over the Falcons in 2010. By the way, the Packers won the Super Bowl that year. Just sayin’.
-- You can have your cutaway camera shots of Taylor Swift watching her boyfriend play for the Chiefs. I get much more joy out of the shots of a frustrated Jerry Jones in his sky box while the Packers are kicking his team’s butt.
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Ken Lass is a former Green Bay television sports anchor and 43 year media veteran, a lifelong Packers fan, and a shareholder.
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Comments (180)
Since'61
January 15, 2024 at 07:06 am
I would add Savage and Alexander for the Game Balls. Turnovers are huge in playoff games and both of their interceptions resulted in TDs for the Packers. Savage's Pick - 6 was perfectly played.
Lame Calls: Carlson's missed extra point. MLF challenge and pulling starters too early.
Overall an excellent dominating win by the Packers. Bring the same intensity to SF. Go Pack Go. Thanks, Since '61
packerbackerjim
January 15, 2024 at 07:28 am
Not to quibble, but Jaime’s interception was a 10.0, even from the East German judge.
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 09:54 am
Even if LaFleur wins that challenge, it wasn't that big of a gain by the Cowboys; and so the modest reward the Packers would have received in overturning the call was not worth the risk of losing the right to a future challenge plus a timeout.
(I don't know if the Packers had any more challenges left after that fail by LaFleur, but it's certain they had one less.)
In other words, it seems the general rule is to save those challenges for the big plays in huge moments.
Minniman
January 15, 2024 at 12:36 pm
Additionally - "they" (the secondary) made CeeDee Lamb Mr Irrelevant!!!!......and the D front killed Dallas' attempts at a ground game at the same time. Dak had pressure on him too and was constantly down at read 3+ to throw too.
Anyone for a GB vs HOU SB? It's wishful thinking, I know, but in a copy-cat league it would be a refreshing reprieve from egos!
Did anyone else catch Romeo Dobbs' post-game interview with Larry McCarren? He never allowed himself one ounce of self-indulgence. "I just did my job, like everyone else, and things happened"
PeteK
January 15, 2024 at 01:18 pm
I love his all business attitude.
Ferrari-Driver
January 15, 2024 at 07:09 am
Just like many Packer fans here said: The Packers team that took the field in September will not be the same Packers team that takes the field at the end of the season. Truer words were never spoken.
Minniman
January 15, 2024 at 12:55 pm
With (previously) only 1 semi-household name on the entire team (Aaron Jones)........ himself a much under-rated player BTW <but we fans already know that>...... the Pack had no option but to season all these players.
Frankly, this is fairy-tale stuff! NO TEAM re-tools every weak position group simultaneously in-season!!!!!
Although this has been already said, it's gravity is possibly stronger than people give credit to; however, this success (at least on the O) is bult off of the back of the improved play of O line. They've prevailed over some fantastic fronts......... and there's not a first rounder among them.
Are they the same as the 2016 group? Statistically No........ but they also play a more mobile game than that group, they are more mobile and less "fortress Rodgers" - and lets not exclude the power of the great assistance that the 2 TE's and RB give them at plugging holes.
I put Aaron Jones in the same category as Preston Smith - unselfish - and because of that, there needs to be at least some plan to keep him around for 1-2 more seasons (than just next year - as per his present contract). The MLF attack needs a RB to keep middle defenders honest. RB is probably the draft\off-season priority this year...... and I wouldn't be against using the R1 pick for a player like Jonathan Taylor...... providing that it's only Pick #32 :)
PeteK
January 15, 2024 at 01:34 pm
I am very much against using a first rounder for Taylor since Jones is taylor made for our zone blocking scheme. Wilson is a keeper with a draftee.
Minniman
January 15, 2024 at 02:54 pm
Yes, I can easily be swayed either way - and the preference would be for Jones, but he's contracted next year (age 30), so like with the Aaron Rodgers predicament, he can't play at that high level forever.
Taylor was predominantly an example of a proven back - but agree, he may not be a great fit for how the Packers operate.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 12:39 am
Taylor's a good substitute for Dillon, but a step back.
PackBacker
January 15, 2024 at 07:17 am
I have a little public service announcement for our friends in Dallas. The Super Bowl is on CBS this year. Start making your viewing plans now, Big D.
Enjoy!
CHEESEHEADDALLAS
January 15, 2024 at 05:16 pm
THE BEST PART YOU WILL NOT BE THEIR WHY BECAUSE YOU HAD YOUR ASS KICK YESTERDAY FROM ARLINGTON TX GO PACK GO
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 12:51 am
I'll tell you whut
jvole
January 15, 2024 at 07:17 am
Game Balls: Everything starts with the offensive line's improved play. They just beat the snot out of the Cowboys. Even when Jenkins was called for holding on Parsons, he 'accidentally' landed his 315 lbs on top of him. Between the Jones block to his midsection and Jenkins squishing him, Parsons did not look right for most of the game.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 12:55 am
Serves him right for playing in Dallas.
Packers0808
January 15, 2024 at 07:18 am
Playing with abandon and the teamwork attitude of this team. Best of all the eye rolling and arms thrown in air by a departed player is not missed. This teams like of each other is just damn refreshing! Great team effort. Clean up the after TD kicking team only real downside!
SinceLombardi
January 15, 2024 at 07:24 am
Here’s a lame call: the Cowboys would have been SHUT OUT in the first half if it wasn’t for the lame horse collar call.
Game Ball to MLF, Gutekunst and the entire team for a very memorable Sunday.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 07:37 am
Also, the final play at the goal line the LG false started, but wasn't called.
Esquetoi
January 15, 2024 at 08:34 am
There seems to be a trend where players know they can fool the refs and their acting becomes a factor. The reason I like this Packers team is because they DON'T seem to fall into that behavior. That's coaching. Biadasz got them to think #93 conked him good when that was NOT the case. That wasn't a small thing given the momentum at the time. In a smaller way, I think the provocateurs are almost always the "actors." This may or not be coaching also. Given the choice, I'd rather have my team (Packers) lose than debase the sport like that.
barutanseijin
January 15, 2024 at 09:07 am
I hate to see players like Mahomes gesturing for the refs to throw flags. He’s plenty good enough to win without that kind of bullshit. Rodgers did it too. Just play the damn game. Come to think of it, that’s what i love about the way Jordan Love quarterbacks. “You want to get some cheap shots in on me? Fine, enjoy your view of your guy getting burnt to a crisp on this pass i’m about to throw.”
On the other hand, that players beg for flags is because the refs are overinvolved in the first place. No doubt that is a result of league policies probably developed in consultation with networks who want to add an extra wrinkle and fake tension with “but wait, there’s a flag!” reveals. Bad idea which will eventually make the game as unwatchable as baseball.
Rhambo53
January 15, 2024 at 09:15 am
Even when Mahomes get a bad call like he did against the Packers he'll praise the refs paving the way for the next game.
GregC
January 15, 2024 at 07:32 am
"Dak Prescott spent much of the game looking like someone who had lost his car keys." Such a great description. Thank you for that.
The Joe Barry rollercoaster is on the upswing. I didn't think the pass rush was particularly good--really no better than the Cowboys pass rush--but the difference was excellent coverage by the Packer secondary and linebackers, and of course, Dak Prescott is no Jordan Love.
Early in the season, there was a lot of speculation about whether Zach Tom should be moved to center, which seemed like a pretty good idea to me, but I think LaFleur has been vindicated in leaving Tom at tackle. He's not just good enough out there, he's really good, and it's huge to have one of the tackle positions nailed down for years to come, barring injury or regression. It's much easier to cover up an interior O-lineman's weakness than it is to cover up for a bad tackle, and having a really good tackle who doesn't need help in pass blocking frees up the coaches to help shore up the middle. That's what we had with Bakhtiari, and now we appear to have it with Tom.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 07:42 am
"Early in the season, there was a lot of speculation about whether Zach Tom should be moved to center, which seemed like a pretty good idea to me, but I think LaFleur has been vindicated in leaving Tom at tackle. He's not just good enough out there, he's really good, and it's huge to have one of the tackle positions nailed down for years to come,"
I was one who from day one said we need Tom at RT. He is so damn good there. He not only shut down Parsons for most of the game, he has shut out other big time players. TJ Watt comes to mind. Tom was graded as one of the best RT's in the league.
What I was excited about going into the season was Bakthiari at LT and Tom at RT. I thought that was going to give us the best T tandem in the league. Then Bakhtiari got hurt and Walker started playing. But he started to regress. So much that they eventually pulled him and put Yosh in there. Since then Walker has played better and better each game. Walker deserves a ton of credit as well for how he has played down the stretch.
GregC
January 15, 2024 at 08:08 am
Yes, tackle is a premium position, which is obvious when you look at pay scales in the NFL. There is little difference in the importance of RT vs. LT anymore, as many defenses have their best pass rusher mostly matched up against the opposing RT. Zach Tom shut down Montez Sweat in the Bears game. He neutralized their best defensive player, and one of the better pass rushers in the league. And I think it was mostly Tom who was working against Danielle Hunter in the Vikings game. Shut him down too. A center or guard can seldom have that kind of impact in a game.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 08:28 am
OT is absolutely a premium position. And it isn't just LT anymore. RT is also one. With all the elite pass rushers coming off the right side, you have to have a really good RT now too. Sweat, Hunter, Hutchinson, Watt are all guys he has faced.
What I said earlier in the year is that there wasn't that much of a difference from Myers to Tom, compared to the difference it would be from Tom to whoever else at RT. There was a bigger gap at RT then there would be at C. Not saying Myers has been great or anything. I just don't think our RT position would be as good without Tom.
Coming out of college his height/weight was almost identical to Bakhtiari's. That was one reason why I thought he'd be great at OT. He has the athleticism. You could see that he was a guy that could play any position. But having Tom at RT it almost eliminates any pass rusher in the league. Sure he gets some help from TE's and RB's from time to time, but he has been very good since starting there. His worst game was early in the year when he was clearly playing hurt. Tom deserves a ton of recognition.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 01:09 am
It's really strange, the drafting vs usage at OT vs the interior. Bakh was totally dominant, and about Tom's size. We have 3 OTs at 6'7" or bigger, not counting Nijman. Are they really going to be used on the interior?
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 07:35 am
What a fucking game! Hats off to the Green Bay Packers! Wow. I don't really know what to say. From where this season started to now, I truly don't remember seeing a team change so much in 1 years time.
Game Balls:
I agree with the game balls you gave out. Love, Jones, Doubs. All 3 dominated! Love had a perfect passing rating until Kraft dropped the last one. I don't think more needs to be said about these 3 guys as they just dominated. So I will provide a few more game balls.
Jaire Alexander - His interception absolutely changed this game. They were up 7-0 and just punted back to Dallas. They get the interception and score a TD to go up 14-0. That was a game changer.
Darnell Savage - The game was 20-0, and Dallas was moving the ball. They made it to GB's 48, and Savage gets the Pick 6 that absolutely put this game out of reach.
OL - I know Love took a few late hits, but the OL opened holes for Jones and gave Love enough time to find WR's. Love really wasn't pressured a ton and that is against one of the best defenders in the league.
Offensive Coaches - I want to single out the offensive coaches. The offense scored 41 points. They could have scored more honestly. But guys were wide freaking open. That Musgrave TD, nobody was within 20 yards of him. Love couldn't step into his throw enough, but Musgrave was able to adjust to the underthrow and still had time to turn around and run it in. I don't think I have ever seen a NFL player that wide open before.
Lame Calls:
Defense giving up the last TD in 1 minute and 24 seconds -
GB was up 48-16. They allowed a TD drive that was 11 plays, 75 yards, and took 4 minutes, 29 seconds off the clock. I was fine with that. Packers pulled the offensive starters with 5 minutes left. I was fine with that decision, because the last thing we needed was for an offensive player to get hurt, when they were up 24 points. They went 3 and out, but then the defense gave up a TD in 4 plays. Prescott ran for 11 yards. He hit Lamb for 47 yards. Pollard ran for 4, but then Slaton had a 15 yard penalty, and Prescott hit Ferguson for 14 yard TD. And then they get the 2 point conversion.
This drive made the game feel much closer then it was. If they would have given up a TD I was fine with it. But to give it up in 1 minute and 24 seconds is just unacceptable.
Three and Out:
- "Matt LaFleur made another silly challenge in the third quarter on a catch by former Wisconsin Badger Jake Ferguson."
2 things on this one.
First - I believe LaFleur needs someone else in his ear telling him what to challenge. Because whoever is telling him to challenge some of these calls is wrong a lot.
Second - I actually liked it because it stopped their momentum. Under Barry, when the team gets a bigger play it seems like they just roll down the field. This play stopped their momentum, they were able to reset themselves and held them to a 3 and out after that. So while the challenge didn't work it stopped their momentum after that play.
- Emmanuel Wilson has the feel of a guy that is about to bust a long run when he touches the ball. Does anyone else get that feeling with him? I was happy to see him back in the lineup.
- This was the first time all year that we have had all of our preferred starting weapons on the field. The only offensive weapon we didn't have was Dillon. And they made Heath a healthy scratch. And our offense put up 41 points. Crazy how bright of a future our offense has.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 08:29 am
"Jaire Alexander - His interception absolutely changed this game. They were up 7-0 and just punted back to Dallas. They get the interception and score a TD to go up 14-0. That was a game changer."
Can't agree more. This INT and the ensuing TD was really put Dallas on their heels.
The Packers have been poor at picking off passes this year...bottom of the league poor. Two picks that turned into TDs--and no TOs, so they were +2 on the day--made this one a shocker at halftime.
"Emmanuel Wilson has the feel of a guy that is about to bust a long run when he touches the ball. "
Emmanuel Wilson has the look of a big back who wants to run like a small back. He needs some seasoning, but RBs turnover fast so he needs to adjust quickly.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 08:48 am
14 points off of the turnovers. that essentially was the difference at the end of the game.
I wish Wilson wouldn't have gotten hurt when he did, because I feel like he would have done really well when Jones was out. He has speed. There are so many of his runs where it looks like its going no where and he nonchalantly picks up 4 yards. Those are huge.
I just get the feeling with his speed that he is one step away from breaking one. Maybe I'm wrong, but that is the feeling I got with him watching the game yesterday.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 08:59 am
"14 points off of the turnovers. that essentially was the difference at the end of the game."
Can't emphasize this enough, RC!
For a team that struggled to get picks all season, they got two--didn't surrender any--and turned them both into TDs.
Hard to win when you're in the negative in TOs, and this stretch of Love NOT throwing the ball to the other team is a credit to this streak he's on and his growth as a passer. Yes, he's thrown some pickable passes that haven't turned into TOs, but every QB does. He floats a few more passes than is comfortable, too. Still, it's hard to argue with where they are right now.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 09:10 am
Packers had 7 interceptions all year. The only team that had fewer were the Titans.
But these interceptions were absolutely game changers. Alexanders interception was inside Dallas's 20 (redzone). And Savages was a pick six.
Love has been very good about taking care of the ball. One of the biggest differences from where he was early in the year.
Its truly incredible how well they have done.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 09:24 am
The pick 6 by Savage and INT for a short field TD turned out to be huge. With prevent D, constant turnovers are essential. They make poor defenses good and good defenses great. Without them you lose game you could have won.
A friend asked me last night "does Barry get another look?" I said yes, next Saturday he gets another opportunity. But he has not yet earned another 3 year deal unless ML believes defending 89 plays, giving up 32 points, 510 yards, and 31 minute TOP is his standard of excellence.
The Packers have abundant player talent on Defense. Imagine what the Packers could be they focused on the Ron Wolf top principles to build a Super Bowl caliber team: Get a top shelf QB and surround him with an excellent DEFENSE.
But a win is a win and Barry gets to ride on the Love Train for another week.
Jordan prepared like he was ready to carry the team on his shoulders last night. Mr. Aaron Jones slapped him on the shoulder and said..."here, let me help you with this, kid!"
AJ can sing "All You Need is Love", Jordan to the tune "Me and Mr. Jones, Mr. Jones, Mr. Jones, Mr. Jones...we've got a thing....going on!"
Coldworld
January 15, 2024 at 10:01 am
Barry tried very hard in the second half to show why he shouldn’t be here, after calling perhaps his best D in the first.
I’ve come to the conclusion that the problem with Barry isn’t technical, it’s his instincts. Unfortunately these directly undermine him. He just can’t seem to help himself. We saw from this game, again, that LaFleur has similar tendencies. The two together probably just exacerbate the issue in the other.
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 10:48 am
Maybe the defense is finally playing to their abilities when the DC calls the correct scheme and play instead of the last 2.9999 years of square-peg-meet-round-hole Barry defense.
And you are absolutely correct that his tendency to go back to crap is what should lead him to the unemployment line. When someone sees what works, invests time and gameplanning in it, then goes back to softy softy barry ball needs to be sorting items at Goodwill.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 11:54 am
"Maybe the defense is finally playing to their abilities when the DC calls the correct scheme and play instead of the last 2.9999 years of square-peg-meet-round-hole Barry defense."
This is an excellent point. It shows that these players if used the right way can be good.
Which is why I have disliked Barry for much of the time he has been here. Playing off soft off coverages, allowing WR's to run free and giving the pass rush no time to get to the QB.
Since LaFleur said he was going to be more involved with the defense, there has been a shift in scheme and how they play. And they have looked better.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 11:04 am
There is talent on this defense. Just imagine a DC that deployed their individual strengths synergistically as a constant coaching strategy to best attack the current opponent. We get glimpses of the synergies and they work. But instinctively Barry just HAS to stubbornly play prevent (the win) defense like he has to make some silly point of "dammit...I can make this prevent work...just watch!"
Imagine if Brian Flores, Jim Leonard, Mike Zimmer, Ejiro Evero...even a return of Jerry Gray could do with this talent?
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 01:19 am
I wanted Wilson left in the game once he got that first down. He was benched in favor of Patrick, and then #33 again. I don't see the sense in that. They were playing it like a preseason game, go ahead and evaluate the player so Gutey knows how to draft.
Tundraboy
January 16, 2024 at 11:54 pm
Great job RC. This is good as the article itself!
Rhambo53
January 15, 2024 at 09:19 am
On the Musgrave throw all you need is a lollipop throw so you get the sure completion. Even a 30 yard gain and no TD would have been a backbreaking play.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 09:40 am
Jordan's post game comment about the Musgrave "fair catch TD" was pretty good though: "Yeah big play. He didn't fall down this time" told me it is a scripted, practiced play.
Expect to see a different variation of it Saturday as that Shannahan guy will certainly be ready for it.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 09:47 am
Love had pressure which caused the lollipop, but it was a hell of an adjustment and a hell of a TD. There was no one even close to him on that play. It was crazy.
Tundraboy
January 16, 2024 at 05:42 pm
👍 I ,like several others here have been around since the early 60s and have seen a lot of football, teams and seasons, but I can not remember anything close to the changes in just one year. I hoped for just some breakouts from one or two of the young guys,but not this! Time and health and the future is very bright, starting now!
Handsback
January 15, 2024 at 07:35 am
Never enjoyed a season more than this year. The team played lights out for most of the night.
Game ball for me is Love and Jones. Jones for setting up the pass plays by making Dallas shade the run with their defense. Left Love with opportunities to make plays which he did.
Where has Barry been with that defense? Finally used all the pieces in schemes confusing to Dallas.
One shout-out to a play by a rookie....Dak shakes away a would be sacker and heads down the right sideline. He gets tackled from behind by that same player who almost sacked him. Anyone else who saw it realized that guy who chased down the QB was the Packer's first pick in the last draft. Bright future ahead of him.
Lastly the Packer should do two things...kick the ball deep in the end zone and 2nd figure out a good 2 point play after TDs. Missed extra points don't seem to be going away.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 01:23 am
I saw LVN able to catch up to Dak, yes! Several times our other pass rushers have not been able to catch up to running QBs, including last night.
T7Steve
January 15, 2024 at 07:39 am
Will the trend continue? The Packers have tended, this season, make poor teams look good and beat the good teams they had no business beating. There are no poor teams left. Just ones left questioning themselves after they play the Packers.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:03 am
"The trend is your friend"
tobinrote
January 15, 2024 at 07:40 am
game ball is easy: Love, Jones, Doubs, and indeed the much maligned O line against one of the two or three best front sevens in the league; add Alexander's brilliant INT which came at a perfect time
lame calls is easy too: taking the starters out. how does MLF manage to be his own worst enemy; he called a superb game and then just has to put a fly in the ointment. the refs tried to put dallas in the game with several bad calls. i would release carlson as soon as the season ends and yet still special teams give up a long return too.
and a wholehearted agree with the post of the pleasure of the cutaways to jerry jones getting humiiated.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:05 am
Do you remember Mason Crosby? It took him until his fifth season to kick as well as Carlson is doing as a rookie.
vin0770
January 15, 2024 at 07:55 am
Is it true that Carlson has missed more extra points than anybody in the league this year? If you have this monster leg how come you don’t kick it out of the end zone every time? I’m guessing there’s not much of a chance to give up a screwy return if you kick it out of the end zone every time. Maybe check my math on that one 🤪
T7Steve
January 15, 2024 at 08:13 am
They have the short kicks planned to induce the return. They actually did pretty well on most of the returns keeping them inside the 20 or at least the 25, and one of the good ones Dallas had was called back for a penalty to put them back deep.
The missed extra points are disturbing though. I remember sucking air and thinking how that might come back to haunt us.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 08:31 am
Yup: the average start position on kicks returned is poorer than TBs, and the penalty rate on KOs by the returning team is is high enough, to make this a statistical gamble worth taking...or apparently the Packers coaches think so.
Late in the game, Carlson was kicking TBs.
Leatherhead
January 15, 2024 at 09:57 am
Yeah, it's not a good idea to return unless you're in desperation mode.....
Don't return punts. Don't return kicks.
Bitternotsour
January 15, 2024 at 10:07 am
math
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 10:16 am
I tend to agree...especially if you are one of the most penalized STs in the NFL.
Nixon and Reed can flip the field as returners but I would deploy them sparingly, after seeing how the blocking is performing or if something glaring was seen during prep on video about an opponent's glaring weakness in coverage or returns.
It seems Rich Bisaccia wants KOs/PRs for his guys and his adversaries also. I just don't think his guys are solid enough to make this routine every game.
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 10:47 am
"Yup: the average start position on kicks returned is poorer than TBs, and the penalty rate on KOs by the returning team is is high enough, to make this a statistical gamble worth taking...or apparently the Packers coaches think so."
Now if they would only think about THAT when Nixon is running out balls kicked 7-8 yards into the endzone. It really is confusing that they want teams to bring out our kicks, but have Nixon bring out kicks to what I recall was the worst field position of any team last year. Congrats on the Pro-Bowl Keisen, the team took one for you though.
Guam
January 15, 2024 at 07:59 am
Lots of obvious games balls, but mine goes to the O-line. On the very first play of the game, Dexter Lawrence blows up Myers and pushed him back into the RB for a TFL and I am thinking "oh oh....". That was the last bad play I saw from the O-line. They consistently opened holes for the RBs and protected Love for the balance of the game. What an improvement from early in the season. Tom and Jenkins look excellent and Myers, Runyon, Rhyan ad Walker are all playing well. Kudos to them and their coaches for a complete and well played game!
Honorable mention to LaFleur for an excellent game plan marred only by pulling the starters one series too soon.
Lame call to the refs. The bad call on the horse collar as well as missing the offensive offside gave Dallas at least one if not two TDs.
Guam
January 15, 2024 at 08:05 am
And yes, I too loved the screen shots of Jerry Jones suffering in defeat. I have two favorite teams, the Green Bay Packers and whoever is playing Dallas. And yesterday those two teams were one and the same. I like Mike McCarthy, but I can't stand the ego of Jerry Jones and the self anointed "America's Team".
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 08:44 am
I like Mike McCarthy as a man. Always have. But he is mostly an OC and doesn't coach D or STs. Dan Quinn's plan to redecorate Big Mike's office may have to be put on hold, maybe indefinitely after last night.
And both Mike and Dan have to slow dance to the tune Me and Mrs Jones... "We have Jerry Jones, Jerry Jones, Jerry Jones, Jerry Jones. We have a thing.... coming down"!
That thing may soon be Bill Belichick. Both "OC's" may be gone now. And Bill like's to run the entire team and hire his OC's to do his bidding. No way McCarthy or Quinn stay around to play second fiddle.
But wow...Jerry looked like he had a bad case of "Montezuma's Revenge" last night.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 09:06 am
I just don't see how BB and Jerrah could coexist.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 09:30 am
Oh, I know...and it would be a perfect reality TV show.
Bitternotsour
January 15, 2024 at 10:09 am
You forget that Jones previously had Parcells. No super bowls there either.
Tundraboy
January 16, 2024 at 05:45 pm
Parcels was chatty with the media compared to Belichick. Lol
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 10:52 am
According to Jason Garrett they are 'great' friends. Makes me wonder about BB...
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 10:23 am
I like Mike McCarthy, root for him, and feel sad for him today; however, the blessing in disguise may be for him to leave Dallas and to go to a team with a lot less glitz and theatrics.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 08:34 am
"On the very first play of the game, Dexter Lawrence blows up Myers and pushed him back into the RB for a TFL "
A couple plays later, a pulling Rasheed Walker got stood up by a penetrating DL in the backfield and 33 ran into him. It was making me wonder on that first drive whether it was going to be a long day.
"The bad call on the horse collar "
Yeah, but I can see where the location of the ref on the field has a lot to do with how that was interpreted. Even with the game view at regular speed, it looked like a penalty. That's where you hope refs get together and someone had a good enough look to wave it off.
Guam
January 15, 2024 at 08:45 am
Yeah, that firsts series had some iffy moments, but Love's passing bailed out the Packers until the rest of the team could find their footing.
I think Leatherhead said it best - "sometimes you get boned by the refs".
I do wish they would develop a "booth ref" that could quickly review calls (before the next play is snapped or the call stands) and reverse obvious mistakes. That was clearly a blown call.
PeteK
January 15, 2024 at 01:54 pm
That's a great idea, but the NFL can't afford another ref, they're on a tight budget. That exclusive Peacock playoff game is just another example of disgusting greed.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:14 am
Yup, the beginning of that game was a real contest! Those saying Dallas gave the game away do them an injustice. GB actually WON. Up by 4 TDs before the half.
We didn't get to see AGNFB, but it was over after that.
NickPerry
January 15, 2024 at 08:10 am
Game Balls...
MLF... LaFleur called a hell of a game. It started with taking the ball and then KEEPING Jones involved. I mentioned yesterday Jones needed at least 20 touches. Mission accomplished. Watching this offense with ALL the motion, run and pass plays all looking alike and confusing the defense like it does makes me wonder WTF was Rodgers thinking? Hmmm...What might have been if he didn't have to TRY and be the smartest guy in the room.
The WRs and TEs... What is absolutely amazing is it DOES NOT matter who is on the field. I was really happy for Doubs and glad he had the game he did. But it's been someone different every week. Whether it's Doubs, Wicks, Reed, or Bo Melton it doesn't matter. Same for the TEs and congrats to Luke Musgrave for keeping his feet! Luuuuuuuuke!
O-Line...This O-Line played extremely well. That was a hell of a Defense the Packers dominated yesterday, at least in the regular season. Zack Tom is ALSO a Dude Matt! He's a REAL DUDE too!
Joe Barry and the Defense... I'm not talking about the last 3 drives and 16 points scored, I'm talking about ALL those drives before that. The 3 1/2 quarters the highest scoring offense in the NFL was absolutely punched in the mouth.
Lame Balls... Just one... Matt LaFleur just can't take his foot off a offenses throat like that. All Gas No Brakes... Remember that Matt!
Also, I've been saying this for the last few weeks. As much as I wanted to see MLF gone in October, I now would love to see him STAY as the Packers HC... BUT...GET him an Assistant HC to assist him with Challenges, TOs, and just game management decisions. Maybe Bisaccia could be that guy because I'm reasonably sure as the Assistant HC Title he has now, helping MLF with that sort of thing ins't part of his job..YET.
CoachJV
January 15, 2024 at 08:23 am
"Matt LaFleur just can't take his foot off a offenses throat like that. All Gas No Brakes... Remember that Matt!"
It should have been fine to pull them with that big of a lead... You're blaming the wrong guy. Joe Barry should not have went limp when we had a lead... That's the culprit.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 08:32 am
100%.
Where would we be at today if LaFleur didn't pull those guys up 48-24 with 5 minutes left, and something happened to Love or Jones. I was perfectly fine with them going to the backups. Barry just blew it by allowing them to go down in 1 minute 24 seconds.
Putting Love and crew back in should have ended the game but Kraft dropped the pass that would have gotten them a first down.
Leatherhead
January 15, 2024 at 09:24 am
24 is three TDs and three two point conversions. Getting that accomplished with 5 minutes would have been almost impossible.
I didn't like the Prevent, but by the time we hit 34 I knew we had enough points to win and it was all about the clock, even though we were in the 3rd quarter. 34-7 is a four TD lead and the Cowboys needed to score on every possession from there on out, and quickly.
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 09:45 am
They for sure would have had to get at least 1 onside kick. Which that is almost impossible to do anymore.
I have no problem taking them out. I know LaFleur said he wished he wouldn't have, but that is more due to the defense giving up a TD in 1 minute and 24 seconds. If it took them 2-3-4 minutes to get one, he wouldn't have cared.
GregC
January 15, 2024 at 08:35 am
Not Barry's fault. It was almost certainly LaFleur's decision to put the backups in. I wonder if LaFleur was relying on a formula to make that decision, and the formula did not take into account the fact that it was a playoff game, so the other team was going to go all-out. If it was a regular season game, the Cowboys probably would have quit at that point.
NickPerry
January 15, 2024 at 08:48 am
He had BACK-UPS in the game across the board. Offense & Defense.
MLF is the Head Coach. ALL things start and stop with HIM.
The fact that Barry has a HISTORY of shit like that should have been all LaFleur needed to know.
Give me a break!
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 08:54 am
They were up 24 points with 5 minutes left. We can complain about it, but does it really matter. We just beat the shit out of the Cowboys in Jerry's world. Possibly got Mike McCarthy fired a 2nd time.
But I have to ask. We are up 24 points with 5 minutes left. Lets say he keeps his starters in there. And Jones gets hurt. How much are you and everyone else absolutely crushing LaFleur today for keeping in the stars up by 24 with 5 minutes left?
I had no problem taking them out. The only issue I have is Barry's defense allowing a TD in 1 minute and 24 seconds. No excuse for that.
NickPerry
January 15, 2024 at 08:59 am
"We just beat the shit out of the Cowboys in Jerry's world."
You're absolutely right RC and at the end of the day the above by you is ALL that matters!
Jerrys House?
Bullshit...That's The Packers House!!! LOL!
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 09:23 am
"Jerrys House?
Bullshit...That's The Packers House!!! LOL!"
Hell yeah! lol.
To be more specific I want to say its Aaron Jones house. lol. I can't remember the stats off the top of my head, but I think he has like 9 TD's there in 4 games or something. He has owned that place!
NickPerry
January 15, 2024 at 09:32 am
Just heard a stat on First Take... Dak had only passed for 193 yards when it was 48-16... You and Coach were right, I stand corrected! ...Take em out, don't let them get hurt.
But God Damn Joe Barry...WTF was that defense you were playing? That was some of his worst ever and there's been a lot of examples!
RCPackerFan
January 15, 2024 at 09:37 am
I get why people are upset because it did look bad with what happened after.
But to me I had no problem taking them out. Up 24 points with 5 minutes left. I'd rather our guys not get hurt for next week.
Sounds like Enagbare got hurt bad, which sucks. Jaire got hurt in the game. We don't need to take risks when we really didn't need to.
But seriously. Joe Barry showed exactly why he needs to go after the year, regardless of what happens.
Coldworld
January 15, 2024 at 10:14 am
Playing prevent doesn’t prevent injuries. In some positions it pouts players in more difficult physical positions. There’s really no excuse for it other than to try and eat up the clock, but the fact is, we are very bad at doing so without giving up points.
Giving up points negates much of the point of winding the clock. It also means players are taking meaningful snaps against reenergized opponents far longer or even have to come back into the game. That game is yet another example of going from what we are good at and winning with to what we are not and why doing so is delusional anyway.
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 11:02 am
Why didn't the Texans or Chiefs go into full mangina defense when they were up so far? Because they don't have Joe Barry as a DC. Other teams have their defenses continue to dominate their opponents for the full 60 minutes, not Joe Barry.
jannesbjornson
January 15, 2024 at 12:10 pm
The backups also have to know their job and play to Win. Coasting gets people injured....
10ve 💚
January 15, 2024 at 01:58 pm
"It should have been fine to pull them with that big of a lead... You're blaming the wrong guy. Joe Barry should not have went limp when we had a lead... That's the culprit."
It's been mentioned that Matt was responsible for pulling the starters from the Defense too...
Spock
January 15, 2024 at 09:34 am
NP, "Same for the TEs and congrats to Luke Musgrave for keeping his feet! Luuuuuuuuke!" I watched the Packer locker room thing after the game with MLF giving all the shootouts (JA's int, the OL play, Loves 157 rating, etc.) I laughed out loud, when in the middle of this with a wide grin, MLF says, "Musgrave STAYED ON HIS FEET". Lots of good natured laughs from his guys on that one!
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:26 am
This really speaks to SoV (strength of victory) as a stat, proving that it's meaningless and an absurd thing to track. By that measure, Houston is the best team in the playoffs.
Certainly I would've liked to have seen a few things done differently as starters began being substituted, but it was still a win and never particularly close. MLF prioritized avoiding injury over SoV. I just wish he would have used the opportunity to evaluate the unknown quantities we have left in the roster: #31 Wilson (saving #33 for when it matters) the 3 biggest OTs, or at least one of them. Instead he put in Newman and Nijman, both of those are known. Nijman's fine but I have to think no way will he come back next season.
CharlottesvillePackerBacker
January 15, 2024 at 08:12 am
Tackling by the D. Not seen such solid tackling by a Packers defense since Charles Woodson left.
CoachJV
January 15, 2024 at 08:26 am
Say what you will about Ballentine and Valentine, but those dudes ain't afraid to get dirty and make a tackle.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 08:36 am
They're physical guys. They're a little grabby in coverage, but they provide a very different look for this team.
Esquetoi
January 15, 2024 at 09:05 am
Owens, the rookie (#36), and Nixon are the best. None of the corners are physically capable of doing the dirty work except for Ballentine.
mrtundra
January 15, 2024 at 08:17 am
Agree with all the balls given out. Game balls to everyone. Lame calls: Carlson missing another PAT and NOT kicking the ball through the end zone. Pulling our starters too early. Challenging a call that, once again, goes against the Packers. We'd be better off if someone, anyone, took away MLF's challenge flag. Injuries to Enagbare, McDuffie and Jaire. I saw Jaire walking into the locker room and he looked okay. Don't know how bad Enagbare's injury, as I did not see when he got injured, Don't know how serious McDuffie's injury is either. I did see him walk into the tent, but did not hear or see anything else, from him.
CoachJV
January 15, 2024 at 08:19 am
LAF pulling the starters too soon is a perfect indication that Joe Barry still needs to go. It should have been perfectly okay to pull them when he did and expect the D to still take care of business. Joe gets too soft when we have a lead and that has to stop. It's time for a "mean-ass, blood-thirsty" DC.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 08:41 am
"It should have been perfectly okay to pull them when he did and expect the D to still take care of business. "
It shouldn't have been a shock to see a bunch of #2s and special teamers getting rolled by Dallas' 1s. At that stage, they're trying to play prevent and keep the clock rolling with a bunch of guys--Zayne Anderson? Robert Rochell?--who never see the field on defense.
They needed to put the starters in bubble wrap, but they did it a drive too soon.
Don't get me wrong: I think we've had enough of Joe Barry and I think they can do better. I just wasn't surprised that one of the statistically best Os in the league started to mash at that point...and I don't think it would've mattered what D was being called.
Coldworld
January 15, 2024 at 10:33 am
Dak has a career in part built on padding stats late in games against teams playing soft. Give him time and he’s a wholly different player. As soon as we did, the spell was broken, his conversion rate and depth of pass shot up. Apart from the scoring, it meant those players we could not remove—you can’t take out too many in season—had to play harder and longer.
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 11:10 am
"They needed to put the starters in bubble wrap, but they did it a drive too soon."
And after one of his best, if not his best, coaching job as a Packer LaFleur does something stupid and we're spending too much time criticizing that one mistake.
One more first down on the drive they inserted Clifford and the Cowboys are toast. No need for the dramatics at the end and the increased risk of a player getting hurt. It didn't cost us much other than anxiety, but if he could ever just not point his gun at his foot and fire.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 08:55 am
ML acknowledged he screwed up pulling starters and said he learned a valuable lesson. Hope so.
My wise Dad told me as a young man that "mistakes are great teachers. Just don't let them teach you the same lesson twice."
Especially when you are winning the battle as General Patton. ML forgot his Defense is France.
HawkPacker
January 15, 2024 at 09:29 am
Did he also acknowledge he throws the red flag at the incorrect times? Or that they play shitty defense against two point conversions? It didn't matter this game but what about the next?
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 09:51 am
On one of the two point conversions when the 'Boys lined up and looked at the 4 man front Barry called...Dak changed the play at the line. I said "this will be an easy 2 point run. It was.
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 12:00 pm
"My wise Dad told me as a young man that "mistakes are great teachers. Just don't let them teach you the same lesson twice." "
I'm less concerned with his repeating the same mistakes as I am to his tendency to find new ways to make mistakes.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:33 am
You prefer creativity over continuity.
I'd prefer a HC that isn't tapped out by OC duties; that's what this really comes down to. MLF deserves praise for his role as OC, but let's be honest that that's what he did well. When he simultaneously had to be HC both roles suffered.
Let him be OC.
fireball
January 15, 2024 at 08:25 am
Please, Matt, never ever take your damn foot off the gas!
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 06:09 pm
Someone needs to send him an AGNFB T Shirt!
LeotisHarris
January 15, 2024 at 08:41 am
"Dak Prescott spent much of the game looking like someone who had lost his car keys."
Such an apt description, Ken. Dak was off from the get-go and the D made sure he stayed that way.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
January 15, 2024 at 08:49 am
Enough with all this....just enjoy and savor this moment. Even Bachtiari prior to season said you move on from a Hall of Fame QB it is a rebuild year. Just look at everything accomplished from Love to all the young players evolving setting the team up tremendously for future years. The refreshing team chemistry/connection to finding out just how good MLF is as a coach. There are so many positive things as a Packer fan to rejoice and be happy about regardless of the outcome next week1.
HawkPacker
January 15, 2024 at 09:31 am
Knock, we are all enjoying the moment. We just want to see a few improvements to some of the things the packers do or don't do.
It's only normal to want the team to be as good as it can be.
But I do know what you are saying!
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
January 15, 2024 at 10:10 am
Hawk,
Thanks, though understand my response was meant somewhat tongue in cheek. We all are pretty giddy this morning.
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 06:11 pm
Where is Bahktiari these days?
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 08:54 am
Romeo Doubs: exemplary of what this offense has become. All he does is make key, chain-moving--often contested--catches and score TDs. When his time to shine came, he made plays. Has anyone ever had a quieter 9 TD catch season? Super happy for this guy.
AJones: how do you not bring him back? He'll need to take a pay cut, but given the depressed market for RBs and his high cash value in 2024, that shouldn't be a problem. Find the next AJones in the process.
Jaire: reinjuring that ankle sucks, but he made the play of the game on that pick, giving the Packers a short field and a route to a quick 2-TD lead. This DB group is turning out to be deep--even after dealing Rasul Douglas--and Alexander brings swagger. Let the man talk.
Savage: pick six was a thing of beauty and really hammered home a 27-0 nail in the coffin of Dallas. I don't think he's back in 2024, and I wish him well. This will always be a sweet highlight to play.
Musgrave: HE DIDN'T FALL DOWN!!!
"Matt LaFleur made another silly challenge in the third quarter on a catch by former Wisconsin Badger Jake Ferguson."
The buck stops with LaF in throwing the red flag, but he's supposed to have guys in the booth watching replays and different angles telling him whether he's got a shot on a challenge or not. Somehow I think he's getting some iffy information from his helpers.
"You can have your cutaway camera shots of Taylor Swift watching her boyfriend play for the Chiefs."
What was the over/under for number of times they showed Taylor Swift in a frosty booth in KC---during a game where KC wasn't playing and Swift wasn't in the building? I hope you all took the over.
Esquetoi
January 15, 2024 at 09:18 am
Two (2) dedicated paragraphs dedicated to Taylor Swift???? Why? I didn't even see what you are talking about.
Packwillie
January 15, 2024 at 08:57 am
Jimmy Johnson looked like Charles Manson exploding during the halftime show. I would have liked to have seen cutaways of him a few times during the game.
NickPerry
January 15, 2024 at 09:04 am
LOL....Yup, what was THAT about.
HawkPacker
January 15, 2024 at 09:33 am
Yes, with the redness in his eyes, he looked totally pissed.
PeteK
January 15, 2024 at 03:41 pm
Ha ha ha ha with those beady eyes.
NickPerry
January 15, 2024 at 09:02 am
BONUS Game Ball...
Watching "Undisputed for the first time in years( I hate Bayless). Skip is borderline suicidal and Michael Irvin looked and sounded like he was going to cry at the start of the show.
#Priceless.
Bitternotsour
January 15, 2024 at 09:11 am
Editors Note: They're acting. They're entertainers playing roles. It's like pro wrestling.
You're welcome.
10ve 💚
January 15, 2024 at 02:13 pm
"Editors Note: They're acting. They're entertainers playing roles. It's like pro wrestling."
Yes, but it's still sweeeeeet! 😂
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 08:02 pm
Thanks. Just watched it. Lmao. We will be watching memes forever , we have totally humiliated the Cowboys and rendered, Johnson , Aikman, every one of them irrelevant. And silent.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 09:03 am
Ken...you wrote a dandy article!
One of many nuggets about Love: "He’s been getting a ton of hype, attention and praise lately and I feared it might go to his young head and affect his play. Turns out, it did. It made him better."
Love's post game comments about "we are going to enjoy this tonight but back to work tomorrow" stuff was great. He's not Brett, certainly not Aaron...kind of seems much more Bart. But Jordan is going to be his own man and seems content with who he is.
I wish his mentor/coach Dad could have seen this.
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 09:45 am
Amen, LambeauPlain.
I hope, by the grace of a merciful God, Jordan's dad enjoyed the game from the vantage point of a celestial skybox, in a place where all things have been made right and all tears have been wiped away.
Besides the beneficial influences of his mom and dad, it would be great to see Love also take after the class and calm, and steely determination, of Bart Starr.
Most of all, though, each one of us has to be ultimately ourself, and I'm looking forward to enjoying Jordan Love as uniquely himself while leading the Packers for many years to come.
The role models in our lives help us to be the best of ourselves. Let's hope and pray Love keeps growing as a person as well as a player.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 10:05 am
Not just a new Chapter of "The Packer Quarterback Chronicles"...but an entire new book is being written: "The Love Era Begins!"
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:42 am
LP,
what a great perspective.
Once I saw the story on JL10's life I said GB is now America's favorite team, or at least has every reason to be. And we've heard reports of people all over the Country rooting along with us.
Rhambo53
January 15, 2024 at 09:11 am
Another lame call was passing on 3rd down before the two minute warning and stopping the clock when the Cowboys couldn't. The game was in hand but it gave the Cowboys two extra plays. Run the ball, two minute warning, punt, and take the 30 seconds off the clock.
dobber
January 15, 2024 at 09:22 am
The only way that play is a win is if it converts the first down. They could've run-run-run punt, but then we'd be unhappy because they played passiv and gave the ball back when they could've gone for the jugular and finished the game on their own terms.
Esquetoi
January 15, 2024 at 09:26 am
I see your take as valid Rhambo53 yet realize they know passes = runs in safety of completion with more upside too. It's a conundrum. With all that, it's like the Packers/fans are playing golf with no worries.
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 09:28 am
With the Packers ahead 20-0, the end of the first half and the beginning of the second half were huge.
If the Cowboys score a touchdown before halftime, and then getting the ball first in the second half, score again, it could be 20-14 early in the third quarter. Yikes!
The sweet and stunning pick-six by Savage put us up 27-0, so that even when the Cowboys did get it in the end zone before halftime, the Packers were still up by 20.
Then, with the beginning of the second half, the Cowboys did start off with an impressive drive, but the reeling Packers defense was able to rally and hold them to a field goal (when, if I'm not mistaken, Preston had his big bat down of a pass on third down).
With things still looking kind of shaky, the Packers offense responded brilliantly with a huge drive of 75 yards in five plays, with a 46-yard completion to Doubs wrapped within four runs for 29 yards by Jones, the last for 9 yards and a touchdown.
***
So it was that with the Cowboys coming out desperate and determined after halftime, we thwarted their initial surge by outscoring them 7-3 at the outset of the third quarter to actually add to our lead.
***
My takeaway: This game could have been a lot closer than it was. (Remember how the Cowboys came back against the Packers several years ago in the second half, but the Packers pulled it out with the dramatic pass on the edge of the sideline to Cooks, in between two clutch Crosby field goals of more than 50 yards.)
It's a reminder that -- no matter how big the lead (or, for that matter, the deficit) -- the Packers have to keep their edge all the way through to the last second of a game.
Leatherhead
January 15, 2024 at 10:06 am
""""My takeaway: This game could have been a lot closer than it was."""
No. The last time that Dallas snapped the ball with a chance to tie or take the lead was when they threw it to Alexander. We scored again, making it 14-0, then 21, then 27. Dallas never led, and they were behind from the middle of the first quarter on. We scored 3 more TDs in the second half, and it's really, really hard to catch up when the other team just keeps scoring.
This was the worst playoff beatdown in Dallas history. We beat then on both lines of scrimmage, our QB was the best QB on the field, our RB was the best RB on the field, our defense was the best defense on the field.
IMO, this was not a close game after Alexander's pick, and the rout was on when Savage got his pick 6.
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 10:53 am
Leatherhead, I'm genuinely glad to get your point of view, which is so much different than mine.
Until the Packers are kneeling down in victory formation, I'm not secure.
Remember how that onside kick got past from Reed to flit upon the ground for awhile until Musgrave scrambled to fall on it. Again, yikes!
Remember, just last season in the opening round of the playoffs, the Jaguars coming from way far behind to beat the Chargers.
In the NFL, it's truly not over until it's over.
That goes both ways: If the Packers fall behind against the 49ers, I hope they fight hard for a dramatic comeback.
***
I guess that's why Barry may drive me crazier than he does others -- even aside from my predisposition to craziness ;-) -- as in the games against the Giants and Panthers, even the Bears.
What I did like from Barry was the last play of the third quarter, with the Cowboys going for it on 4th-and-five, and Barry brings the blitz -- which (as I remember it) seems to come at Dak like a tidal wave before he rushes a throw that lands far away from any of his receivers.
More of that, please, please, please.
***
I'm not saying blitz all of the time, but please mix it up with some blitzes to keep the offense honest, as well as keeping our defenders playing on their toes instead of on their heels.
Predictability and passivity kills.
Leatherhead
January 15, 2024 at 01:08 pm
I know comebacks happen. I watched Frank Reich come back against the Oilers. I've seen Hail Mary's and Fail Mary's. I've watched 4th and 26. I remember the 2014 onside kick.
Closing out games isn't easy, you need a plan, and it was obvious that the Packers realized after we got to 34 that Dallas needed four TDs in about 15 minutes. That's four successful possessions in a row. And the other have of the problem is that you have to stop Green Bay, because you can't catch up if the other team keeps scoring. We scored two more TDs to make sure Dallas never got within sniffing distance. The clock did its job and ran out.
After we went up 14-0, the Cowboys were behind by two or more TDs until the end of the game.
Bitternotsour
January 15, 2024 at 01:22 pm
a comfortable 16 point win. complainers need to get over themselves.
to think there's an element out there that aren't satisfied with this game is mind boggling.
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 06:12 pm
Once the momentum swings to the other team, it's hard to get it back.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:47 am
BOAT RACE.
While a very strange term, this really was a boat race. The scoreboard doesn't reflect that because our coaches are very nice guys. Fortunately not so nice that they ever put the game in jeopardy.
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 08:13 pm
AGNFB, from here on out! MLF said he learned from this. I'm a believer. Happy to now say that. What a Season.
Lphill
January 15, 2024 at 10:07 am
blowout or not , giving up over 500 yard's of offense is unacceptable .
Packers0808
January 15, 2024 at 10:13 am
Much was junk yards 4th quarter.
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 11:21 am
"blowout or not , giving up over 500 yard's of offense is unacceptable ."
C'mon, this is Joe Barry calling the defense. It's hard to keep him going soft when the Packers have ANY lead. Give him a 32 point lead in the 4th quarter and he's apoplectic to go into full softy softy prevent the win defense. It appears a 32 point lead is barry-proof with less than 15 minutes left.
Bitternotsour
January 15, 2024 at 01:23 pm
jesus, get over yourself. it was a blowout.
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 06:19 pm
I'm with you, Lphill -- although that may not add to your number of likes.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:48 am
I was surprised to see that stat, but we'd advance just the same either way. It's about winning. GB won.
Packers0808
January 15, 2024 at 10:08 am
Love reminds of Bart Starr, yes go back that far, pushing 80 years old. Same kind of attitude, quiet, humble and is a team player!
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 11:02 am
Having a good measure of Starr's qualities is a very good thing, as it can be harder to deal with success than failure.
We need Love to continue much as he is for the next ten seasons or more, and to always be seeking improvement as a player and a person.
We all need to do so.
Plus, we need to try to bring out the best in each other, even from afar with encouraging words, constructive and caring criticism, and most of all prayers.
If we want the players to care about the fans, the fans have to care about the players.
That seems to be the case with Aaron Jones to great fruition all around.
Let's keep it going as fans in relationship to our players.
Spock
January 15, 2024 at 10:28 am
I just saw that when AJ threw his touchdown ball into the stands the guy catching it was AJ's (fraternal) twin brother. I thought it was cool when the fan caught the pass; it's even cooler now that I know it was to his brother.
LambeauPlain
January 15, 2024 at 10:55 am
Very cool. Did not know that!
His brother was a good football player too. Just not NFL good.
Packers0808
January 15, 2024 at 10:37 am
Evidently all the Cowboys wanted to be Jordan Love, they all had BE LOVE on the back of their helmets!
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 12:52 pm
:-)
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:53 am
"Be like Jordan"
stockholder
January 15, 2024 at 10:38 am
Ken - I'm going to disagree on the challenge.
1. Keep in mind we had a big lead.
2. It slowed the Offense down.
3. It helped the Defense regains their Witts.
Also you pointed to the 2nd stringers.
While I agree it was a little early.
They got the perfect opportunity to judge them.
And Rest.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:57 am
#31 Wilson got a first down while being used as a bell cow. Was that enough for Gutey to really evaluate him? Why bench him and put in Patrick Taylor? He's a known quantity. And then put 33 back in the game. Should have stuck with Wilson.
MLF put in Newman and Nijman, also both known entities. There are still 3 OTs who have never played a snap in the NFL.
Those are the mistakes I object to.
GVPacker
January 15, 2024 at 10:44 am
Watching the camera pan through the stands and seeing the look of despair on the Cowboys fans faces as the Cowboys were being manhandled by the Packers- PRICE-LESS!!!!!
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 08:19 pm
Big part of game!
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 07:58 am
Also all the empty seats :)
ricky
January 15, 2024 at 11:07 am
The San Francisco game is going to be even more difficult. At least with the Cowboys, the Packers had a history of winning in their stadium. And it's well known that the Cowboys are chokers when it comes to the playoffs. Instead, it is the Packers who have a hard time traveling west, with nightmare games the rule, not the exception. But, that's why they play the games. Because of the cliched (but also very true) "any given Sunday". And because this team is peaking at the right time. And because Barry, after being cornered, up a tree with a gun held to his head, has finally decided that different defensive schemes might be a good idea. Plus, LaFleur has found a QB who will actually listen to him, and (gasp!) spreads the ball around rather than waiting for his favorite receiver to get open. And if that receiver doesn't get open, take a sack. Sometimes, its a matter of addition by subtraction. So far, so good.
canadapacker
January 15, 2024 at 11:26 am
I am more optimistic going into San Fran that I was before Dallas. And now whatever happens happens - just super thrilled that we are going there. BUT That being said what I really liked about this victory was the ice water in Love's veins. Now I had been an AR supporter until his last few seasons - when he kind of went off the rails ( mostly from a mental (it is about ME) situation). But that being said - even when we were winning - for those decades - except for the Pittsburgh championship game - dont ever see AR just put the fork into a team when GB had a lead - like Love did last night. Now that may have been a one game wonder - but that was absolutely amazing - just when Dallas scored - he marched us right back down - not on a slow drive - but marched back quickly - and the looks on Jerry's and MM's faces - LOVING it.
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 08:30 pm
"But that being said - even when we were winning - for those decades - except for the Pittsburgh championship game - dont ever see AR just put the fork into a team when GB had a lead - like Love did last night. Now that may have been a one game wonder - but that was absolutely amazing - just when Dallas scored - he marched us right back down - not on a slow drive - but marched back quickly -"
That was my biggest takeaway and greatest enjoyment from watching this game. Love has taken his play to a whole other level, ,he has that elusive quality we know as greatness, grace under pressure and is a clutch team player. A leader. So much to look forward to.
Malland56
January 15, 2024 at 11:50 am
Great game! Fantastic! But. Should not have put the subs in with 5 minutes left. We should have let Clifford pass on that 3rd and I think 4 to keep the drive going. Our defense at that time in the game was spent. The two long drives before that and the Packers scoring so fast had our guys tired. I saw Smith with his hands on hips more or less walk across the line a scrimmage and get that off sides call.
I think Matt now knows to keep the pedal to the medal with 5 minutes still left in the game. Make a nice time consuming drive.
Again great game. 49ers will be a whole different ball game. GO PACK GO
HarryHodag
January 15, 2024 at 11:52 am
I don't think enough has been said about the offensive and defensive lines. The Cowboys lines are no joke. Micah Parsons has torn apart other lines. Zip on Sunday. The holes Aaron Jones ran through were done by the young and unknown offensive line. No sacks on Love is the result of superior offensive line blocking.
The defensive line applied just enough pressure to keep Prescott off balance. They did allow some running by the Cowboys but they didn't break. Kenny Clark is the unsung hero of the d-line.
During the off season the Packers will need to consider the future of Christian Watson. He was active Sunday but barely made a ripple. Do they really need him?
Malland56
January 15, 2024 at 11:01 pm
Yes they need him. They all say he keeps getting hurt with that damn hamstring. Well Jonesy was hurt a lot this year too. Look what Watson did when he came back! They had to keep tight coverage on him the whole game if you didn't notice. They didn't want him to get deep so the safety was leaning towards him the whole game when he went deep letting are other guys one on one.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 08:04 am
No need to decide anything about #9 until his contract comes up. Nothing to be gained by removing him. Yes, he's very valuable when he's on the field. They should be using Bo Melton as his direct substitute when #9 is out due to injury. Between the two of them they should be able to fulfill the MVS role all season. That will keep JL10 on target.
If #9 ever gets over the injury bug, GB can think about using all 3 speedsters at the same time.
LASVEGAS-TOM
January 15, 2024 at 12:05 pm
Hello Everyone, I'm still around., still kicking. This is LVT. I seem to have beaten Lung Cancer, & for the the past 2 years Prostate Cancer. I so far have beaten that. I've had a total of 72 Radiation treatments. I want to say Hi to all my friends. I'm not betting anymore, but still picking a few winner's here and there. I want to say that I am really impressed with Jorden Love. He has made a believer out of me. I haven't seen much of him except for the lst 2 weeks. I wouldn't take Rogers back even up. I can't imagine what the Jets must think. Take it from a guy who has won a lot of Football games, This guy is Good, but then you guys all know that. For those of you that remember me, I was getting Migraine Headaches from among others Mason Crosby for all the Goal Posts he hit. I still think he holds the NFL record. My migraines were almost gone, now I had one again. I hope they are not coming back. PLEASE get rid of this kicker. I want to say Hi to Tayrn. I hope you are still picking winners. I know we both picked alot of them. Whatever happens next week or beyond, I think Green Bay has a Bright Bright Future. Anyway Hi to everyone, & if you bet, Go The Wrong Way. You'll Win more than you'll lose. Go Pack
LVT
Swisch
January 15, 2024 at 12:57 pm
God bless, LVT.
Keep kicking, even if the Packers aren't (by doinking the goal posts or missing extra points).
LASVEGAS-TOM
January 16, 2024 at 12:34 am
Thank You!!
LVT
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 01:44 pm
LVT, I'm a newer poster so I don't know you, but beating lung cancer and holding your own against PCa, you are my new hero!
LASVEGAS-TOM
January 16, 2024 at 12:32 am
Thank You!!
LVT
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 08:44 pm
Welcome back! Sorry to hear what you have gone through but Very happy to hear of your recovery,
LASVEGAS-TOM
January 16, 2024 at 12:31 am
Thank You!!
LVT
Tundraboy
January 17, 2024 at 07:38 pm
My Pleasure.
CheesedDeadHead
January 15, 2024 at 12:05 pm
One bonus to being the youngest team is that while other teams with older vets tire quicker at this time of the season, our guys can turn it up to 11.
NFLfan
January 15, 2024 at 12:17 pm
Do not give Joe Barry a pass. He only responds when he's backed into a corner. There are several on the D who play the same game.
He needs to GO.
Leatherhead
January 15, 2024 at 01:10 pm
Was he in a corner in the playoffs in 2021? You know, when the defense didn't give up a single TD?
Two playoff appearances for Barry with the Packers, and two very strong performances.
PeteK
January 15, 2024 at 04:50 pm
D did a great job against Niners a couple of years ago, let's hope for a repeat.
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 08:48 pm
Totally, totally forgot that.
NFLfan
January 15, 2024 at 01:06 pm
One thing I've noticed about Kyle Shanahan is his iron grip on play-calling. MLF is allowing Jordan the autonomy to make pre-snap reads and commit to necessary adjustments. I think MLF can use that to his advantage.
NFLfan
January 15, 2024 at 01:08 pm
Cowboy's coaches and players likely didn't take GB seriously.
Leatherhead
January 15, 2024 at 01:12 pm
I think the old geezer,Bradshaw,nailed it at halftime. "Uptight". A great word from the 60s and he's right, you can't play if you're uptight. And the the Cowboys were tight, because the Packers are in their head, and now we're in their head a little deeper. They're going to remember this one for a while.
canadapacker
January 15, 2024 at 01:26 pm
Just like we are in Da Bears head - and even with 2 bad calls. Cant wait to see my Dallas buddies
Tundraboy
January 15, 2024 at 08:52 pm
Well they do now!
croatpackfan
January 15, 2024 at 01:30 pm
"... I get much more joy out of the shots of a frustrated Jerry Jones in his sky box while the Packers are kicking his team’s butt."
👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Minniman
January 15, 2024 at 02:50 pm
Especially when you hear about how Jerry Jones is at the vanguard of limiting profit distribution. It's hardly surprising - ***** NEWS FLASH - Billionaire loves money ***** but you'd think that, given they already have a protected industry cash cow, that he'd want to continue to grow the game.
PeteK
January 15, 2024 at 04:53 pm
A modern robber baron, unfortunately too many in the USA.
Minniman
January 15, 2024 at 02:46 pm
Hey Ken,
Regarding that failed challenge flag.
Do you wonder if he threw it knowing that it would fail, but as the time taken to process the challenge will be longer than an actual timeout, it gave them time to do something else (like evaluate a play or player)?
I don't know, but it was so obviously not a challenge - even in real time - that he could only have had an ulterior motive to throw it.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 16, 2024 at 08:09 am
Fortunately it didn't hurt us.