Packers vs Seahawks Postgame: Reviews

[TOPHAT]

[align=center]GAME BLOG[/align]

http://www.packersnews.com/includes/newspaper/blogs/insider/index.shtml

Final score: Packers 48, Seahawks 13

The Packers improved their preseason record to 2-0 with a resounding 48-13 victory over the Seahawks. The high-scoring game lasted well over 3 hours and didn't end until 10:21 p.m.
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Packers miss out on even more points

Charlie Pepprah intercepted a David Greene pass and returned it 27 yards to the Seahawks' 2. But the Packers turned in a disastrous series that resulted in no points.

On first and goal from the 2, Corey White was stopped for a 1-yard loss. On second down, Paul Thompson was intercepted in the end zone by cornerback Pete Hunter. A 15-yard penalty was called on Packers offensive lineman Adam Stenavich for an illegal leg lift. The result was the Seahawks had a first and 10 at their 35-yard line.
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Packers' highest scoring preseason game since '38

* You would have to go back 69 years to find the last time the Packers scored more than 48 points in a preseason game. That came on Sept. 5, 1938, against the Cedar Rapids(Iowa) Crush, when the Packers claimed a 75-0 victory in Ironwood, Mich. The Packers' current total of 48 points is the most ever against an NFL opponent, and there's still one quarter to play.

* Jarrett Bush nearly got a trifecta against QB David Greene. Bush already has intercepted two passes, and could have had a third, but dropped a pass that hit him in the breadbasket.

* Aaron Rodgers finished the night 10 of 16 for 97 yards and two touchdowns. Paul Thompson has been inserted at QB for the Packers.
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Halftime quotebook

Halftime quotes distributed by the Packers' public relations staff:

Nick Barnett, on the defense: "Everybody is playing well. It's the second year of having the scheme under our belts and playing together. We're out there gelling. We still have some things to clean up. I think we're on the right path."

Brett Favre, on the difference between this week and last week: "I think we executed better. Last week we didn't execute very well. Guys made some plays. Bubba (Franks) got involved. We had a better tempo. We just made plays. There's no secret to it."

Favre, on chemistry with the receivers: "We still have a long way to go. Up to this point it's been productive as far as this game is concerned but we still have a long way to go. We still missed on a few that we should have gotten."

Coach Mike McCarthy, on the two defensive touchdowns: "I thought our defense was excellent. It's a priority to take the football away and they've been doing that."

McCarthy, on Will Blackmon's returns: "Will's done an excellent job. I think he's really showing what he can do when the ball's in his hands."
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Packers 48, Seahawks 13

Carlyle Holiday 4-yard touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers, 7:10 remaining in the third quarter. Dave Rayner extra-point kick.

Drive: 10 plays, 46 yards, 5:05.

Key play: On third and goal from the 6, Corey White was stopped cold behind the line of scrimmage. But excellent second-effort allowed White to break a tackle and pick up 2 yards and a first down. Two plays later, the Packers found the end zone.
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This and that...

* The rain stopped in the first half and didn't play much of a factor in tonight's game. The Lambeau Field turf held up well, with no noticeable slipping by the players.
* Corey White, who continues to be listed as a fullback on the roster, opened the second half as the Packers' starting halfback.
* On fourth and 3 early in the third quarter from the Seahawks' 39, the Packers went for it and picked up a first down when Aaron Rodgers completed a 4-yard pass to Carlyle Holiday.
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First-half stats

Rushing

GB - Brandon Jackson, 13-54.
Sea - Maurice Morris, 6-31.

Receiving

GB - James Jones, 4-58. Bubba Franks, 4-30. Donald Drive, 2-26.
Sea - D.J. Hackett, 2-12.

Passing

GB - Favre 7-12-74. Rodgers 5-7-58.
Sea - Wallace 6-15-94.
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Montgomery suffers knee injury

Defensive lineman Michael Montgomery suffered a knee injury and will not return, it was reported from the Packers' bench. Montgomery suffered the injury near the end of the first half.
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Packers 41, Seahawks 13

Dave Rayner 24-yard field goal.

Drive: 4 plays, 3 yards, :45.

Key play: Jarrett Bush intercepted a Dave Greene pass on the Seahawks' first drive of the second half. It was Bush's second interception of the night against Greene. He also picked him off late in the second quarter.
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Packers lighting up scoreboard

The Packers held a commanding 38-13 halftime lead. Scoring records for preseason games weren't readily available, but the last time the Packers scored that many points in a half during a regular-season game was in 1983 when they lit up Tampa Bay for 49 first-half points.

The last time the Packers scored more than 38 points in a preseason game was in 1993, when they defeated Indianapolis 41-10 at Lambeau Field. The Packers have two quarters tonight to surpass that total.

The most points the Packers have scored in the modern era during a preseason game was 45.
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Packers 38, Seahawks 13, halftime

Josh Brown booted a 48-yard field goal as the half ended to pull the Seahawks within 38-13.

Drive: 5 plays, 30 yards, :52.
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Packers 38, Seahawks 10

Tracy White 34-yard fumble return for a touchdown. Mason Crosby extra-point kick.
Key play: Safety Atari Bigby was untouched on a blitz and sacked quarterback Seneca Wallace, who fumbled. White was there to scoop up the ball and high tail it for the end zone.
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Packers 31, Seahawks 10

James Jones 7-yard touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers. Dave Rayner extra-point kick.

Drive: 9 plays, 71 yards, 4:08.

Key play: James Jones made a spectacular, leaping catch along the sidelines of an Aaron Rodgers pass over Marcus Trufant. Jones was originally ruled out of bounds, but the Packers challenged the call. A replay revealed it was indeed a catch, and Jones was credited with a 32-yard catch to the Seahawks' 20.
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And then there were four......

Fullback Ryan Powdrell was helped off the field and couldn't put pressure on his left leg. Powdrell suffered a knee injury and his return was questionable. That drops the total number of healthy backs on the Packers' roster to four. Still left standing in the Packers' backfield are Brandon Jackson, Noah Herron, fullback Korey Hall and fullback/halfback Corey White. Backs shelved by injuries during training camp include: Vernand Morency, P.J. Pope, DeShawn Wynn, Brandon Miree and Powdrell.
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Packers 24, Seahawks 10

Maurice Morris, 15-yard touchdown run. Josh Brown extra-point kick.
Drive: Two plays, 28 yards, 21 seconds.
Key play: Aaron Rodgers couldn't handle a high snap and the Seahawks recovered at the Packers' 28. It appeared Rodgers should have handled the shotgun snap, and he also was tentative in trying to retrieve the loose ball, which allowed the Seahawks to recover.
_____________________________________________________________

Earlier Packer scores:

3. 3rd and 8. KGB sack and fumble. Barnett return it for a TD (63 yards). Does a Lambeau Leap.

2. 2nd and 8. Jones for a TD. Nice run after the catch gave him the TD. Jones has a great Lambeau Leap.

1. 2nd and goal on the 1. Jackson sneaks the ball in for a TD. Packers 9 Seahawks

 

[starpass]

Packers vs Seahawks Preseason Game: Highlights & Reviews

Caryle Holiday gets a TD...he is the number 4 wide out...plus special teams

 

[TOPHAT]

Packers vs Seahawks Preseason Game: Highlights & Reviews

Packers (2-0)

Passing

CP/AT YDS TD INT
A. Rodgers 10/16 97 2 0
B. Favre 7/12 74 1 0
P. Thompson 5/10 49 0 2

Rushing

ATT YDS TD LG
B. Jackson 13 54 1 9
C. White 13 25 0 5
A. Rodgers 1 0 0 0

Receiving

REC YDS TD LG
J. Jones 4 58 2 32
B. Franks 4 30 0 10
D. Driver 2 26 0 22
Z. Alcorn 1 21 0 21
C. Harris 1 20 0 20
D. Clowney 3 18 0 9
B. Jackson 1 11 0 11
C. Brewster 1 10 0 10
R. Martin 2 10 0 7
K. Hall 1 8 0 8
C. Holiday 2 8 1 4

Kicking

FG LG XP PTS
M. Crosby 1/1 37 3/3 6
D. Rayner 1/1 24 3/3 6

Punting

NO AVG I20 LG
R. Dougherty 3 44.3 0 54
J. Ryan 2 55.0 0 63

Kickoff Returns

NO AVG TD LG
W. Blackmon 1 83.0 0 83
S. Bodiford 1 25.0 0 25
D. Clowney 1 19.0 0 19

Punt Returns

NO AVG TD LG
W. Blackmon 2 8.0 0 16
T. Williams 2 10.0 0 20

Defense

T-A SCK INT FF
A. Hodge 5-1 1.0 0 0
D. Muir 5-1 0.0 0 0
A. Bigby 3-1 2.0 0 1
L. Birdine 3-1 1.0 0 1
W. Blackmon 3-0 0.0 0 1
S. Havner 3-2 0.0 0 0
C. Jenkins 3-0 1.0 0 0
C. Williams 3-2 0.0 0 0

 

[TOPHAT]

Packers vs Seahawks Preseason Game: Highlights & Reviews

http://www.packersnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070818/PKR01/70818033/1989

Notebook: Defense comes up big with forced fumbles

Seattle Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren held out Matt Hasselbeck from Saturday night’s exhibition game to protect the former Green Bay Packers surgically repaired shoulder. It was a wise decision. Backup quarterback Seneca Wallace took a beating behind an offensive line missing starting tackles Walter Jones and Sean Locklear. Packers end Cullen Jenkins burned Tom Ashworth, who started in Jones’ place at left tackle, for a drive-ending sack on Seattle’s first possession. Later in the first quarter, A.J. Hawk came off the right edge, threw aside fullback Leonard Weaver and flattened Wallace.

In the second quarter, the Packers twice forced fumbles with sacks and returned them for touchdowns. The first came early in the frame, when Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila used a speed rush to get past Ashworth on the outside. Nick Barnett picked up the fumble and raced 62 yards for a touchdown. Later, safety Atari Bigby came untouched on a blitz — running back Marquis Weeks ran right past him, looking for a pass — and leapt on top of Wallace. Tracy White returned that fumble 34 yards for another to score to make it 38-10 with 3 minutes, 24 seconds to play in the half.

Jackson gets going

Second-round draft pick Brandon Jackson got off to a much faster start in his second NFL preseason game. A week after his first 12 carries went for only 21 yards at Pittsburgh, Jackson had 38 yards rushing on nine carries — including a 1-yard touchdown plunge — after one quarter and had 13 carries for 54 yards at halftime. The only obvious negative in his performance was a dropped screen pass that probably wouldn’t gone for much yardage in the second quarter.

As expected, the Packers’ backfield was depleted for the second straight week, with three halfbacks — Vernand Morency (knee), P.J. Pope (knee) and rookie DeShawn Wynn (quadriceps) — and fullback Brandon Miree (shoulder stinger) sitting out because of injuries. The unit became even more short-handed when Ryan Powdrell, an undrafted rookie fullback, sustained a knee injury in the second quarter. Sixth-round draft pick Korey Hall, who along with Powdrell was listed ahead of Miree on the depth chart distributed to the media, started with Jackson in the backfield. Hall continued to play into the second half, which undrafted rookie Corey White opened at halfback.

First challenge successful

Packers coach Mike McCarthy’s first replay challenge of the year was a successful one. McCarthy threw his red flag immediately after officials ruled rookie receiver James Jones landed out of bounds on a 32-yard completion down the right side in the second quarter. Jones partially landed on cornerback Marcus Trufant, and both officials nearby ruled it an incompletion. After a relatively brief review, though, referee John Parry overturned the call. Four plays later, Aaron Rodgers hit Jones for a 7-yard touchdown.

Odds and ends

Defensive end Michael Montgomery did not return after suffering a knee injury just before halftime. … Also inactive for the Packers were guard Tony Palmer, defensive end DeVon Hicks and tackle Tony Moll. All three missed practice time this past week because of injuries. … Corey Williams got the start at defensive tackle alongside Ryan Pickett. … Nine Seahawks were inactive in all, including starting outside linebacker Leroy Hill. … It was an October-like 59 degrees at kickoff, with 93 percent humidity and a steady drizzle. … The Packers won the coin toss and elected to receive. … Seattle receiver D.J. Hackett in the second quarter fell victim to a new rule barring players from spiking or throwing the football after non-scoring plays. He was flagged after a short catch for a first down, and the Seahawks were penalized 5 yards.

 

[TOPHAT]

Packers vs Seahawks Preseason Game: Commentaries & Reviews

[align=center]GAME BALLS[/align]

DEFENSE GAME BALLS: BIGBY & BUSH

OFFENSE GAME BALLS: JONES & FRANKS RUNNER UP: JACKSON

HUSTLE AWARD: CLOWNEY

 

[TOPHAT]

KEY TO GAME: DEFENSIVE TURNOVERS EARLY

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=649089

Turnover happy Packers defense leads in romp past Seahawks

Maybe the Packers' triumph over the Seahawks was in the cards all the way. But that shouldn't detract one bit from some of the extremely positive developments that were witnessed in the 48-13 rout of coach Mike Holmgren's team. Green Bay is 2-0 for the first time since 1999, Ray Rhodes' only season as coach. On offense, Brett Favre quarterbacked the first four series, compiled a 104.2 passer rating and left with a 17-3 lead. McCarthy smartly got Favre into rhythm on the first play, a 4-yard hitch to Donald Driver. Favre also was helped when McCarthy opened up the playbook more than he did against the Steelers. The Packers incorporated more varied personnel groupings, made more liberal use of the shotgun formation and kept the Seahawks and the crowd of 69,761 off balance by getting in and out of the huddle at break-neck pace.

Unlike last week, running back Brandon Jackson had enough room to make the critical first cut in the Packers' zone ground game. He carried 13 times for 54 yards, cutting back well and showing desired body lean. Other than four snaps for Noah Herron on third downs, Jackson played every snap in the first half in tandem with another rookie, fullback Korey Hall. In all, the Favre-directed attack gained 112 yards in 21 plays, a far cry from a week ago. Tight end Bubba Franks, who dropped the only pass thrown to him in Pittsburgh, caught four time for 30 yards.
Rookie James Jones had four receptions in the first half for 58 yards and two touchdowns. He took advantage of a blown coverage to turn a short pass into a 16-yard score. Then Jones used his thick body to get inside position on cornerback Kelly Jennings and grabbed a low pass from Aaron Rodgers for a 7-yard score. Earlier, Jones went up and over cornerback Marcus Trufant for 32 yards on a sideline go route. A replay challenge by McCarthy was successful in overturning an on-field call of incomplete pass.

On defense, the Packers had a field day in the first half, scoring a pair of touchdowns on sack-caused fumbles and amassing four sacks in all. Of course, Holmgren didn't even play quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, and his starting tackles, Walter Jones and Sean Locklear, sat out due to injury. Cullen Jenkins continued his sterling summer with a spin move against Tom Ashworth, Jones' replacement, for a 7-yard sack on the Seahawks' third play. Then A.J. Hawk destroyed backup fullback Leonard Weaver on a blitz to sack Seneca Wallace for minus-5. Midway in the second quarter, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila whipped Ashworth around the corner, sacking Wallace. Nick Barnett returned the fumble 62 yards for a score.

The Seahawks (1-1) made just two plays of note in the first half. The first was a short pass to Nate Burleson that he turned into a 55-yard gain after breaking tackles by Nick Collins and Barnett. The second was a 15-yard touchdown run by Maurice Morris up the gut behind Weaver's crunching lead block on linebacker Desmond Bishop. Neither safety Aaron Rouse nor linebacker Tracy White reacted well on the play.

Atari Bigby replaced Marquand Manuel at strong safety late in the first quarter and made a powerful claim on Manuel's starting job. When the Seattle running backs didn't pick him up, Bigby accelerated hard into Wallace's face and jarred the ball loose. White returned the fumble 34 yards for a touchdown. With the Seahawks perched at the Green Bay 25 late in the first half, Bigby blitzed from the right side, vaulted over Weaver and sacked Wallace, forcing a field goal. It was a stunning play, the kind the Packers haven't seen from a safety since LeRoy Butler.

 

[TOPHAT]

BLACKMON SHINES, KICKERS & INJURIES UPDATE

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=649060

Notes: Blackmon flashes promise on long return

It wasn't just Green Bay's offense that needed a spark midway through this exhibition season. The special teams unit was also desperately looking for a boost. Packers second year cornerback Will Blackmon tried to revive the Packers' dormant return game with an 83-yard kickoff return in the first quarter against Seattle Saturday night at Lambeau Field. Blackmon received the kickoff at his own 2-yard line and headed straight upfield. Getting blocks directly in front of him from receiver David Clowney and then linebacker Spencer Havner, Blackmon was then freed and kicked it into fifth gear in the relatively open field. He might have scored had Seattle safety Michael Boulware not pulled him down with an illegal horse-collar tackle. That cost the Seahawks eight yards in a penalty, and the Packers scored two plays later on a 1-yard touchdown run by Brandon Jackson. Blackmon was given the kickoff return advantage after receiver Shaun Bodiford left the game on the first series with a knee injury. Bodiford returned the opening kickoff 25 yards. In his absence, Clowney stepped in and had a 19-yard return.

Kicking in step: The kicking competition rages on, making this battle one of the best in camp, but the weather didn't provide the contestants much of a challenge, as the rain subsided midway through the first quarter and the new field is built for exceptional footing. With the Packers scoring so much, it gave both kickers plenty of opportunities and neither blinked. Both David Rayner and Mason Crosby held their own. Rayner held a slight advantage in kickoffs, reaching the end zone more than once. His kickoffs went for 75, 65, 71 and 70 in the first three quarters. In his kickoffs, Crosby kicked 71, 65 and 73 yards. The two alternated field goal duties and neither missed in the first three quarters. Rayner hit from 24; Crosby connected from 37. The punting game was highlighted by a 63-yard boot by Jon Ryan.

Injuries: Bodiford was hurt early in the game and left with a knee injury. He didn't return. Fullback RyanPowdrell's knee was also injured in the second quarter on a drive with the second team offense. Bubba Franks also appeared to be injured in the second quarter, though he returned. Michael Montgomery injured his knee.

 

[TOPHAT]

LOOKING AHEAD: PERSPECTIVE

http://packerama.blogspot.com/2007/08/game-2-halftime-report.html

OK, so the Packers look a BIT better this week...How much better? Bubba Franks is actually CATCHING passes. Granted, Seattle's offensive line has been weakened by injuries, and they aren't playing Matt Hasselbeck. And the defense has woefully missed some tackles, although the sacks, fumble returns and interception have made up for it. Just remember, it's still mock turtle soup. Check back next week.

 

[TOPHAT]

HOLD ON OFFENSE! TWO GAMES IN A ROW!

WHOOPS AWARD: BACKUP QB RODGERS HAD GOOD GAME, BUT 2 FUMBLES. C WELLS & QB NEED TO CORRECT IT.

 

[dannychau22]

Re: WHOOPS!

i don't know if this has already been mentioned but the new nfl.com has a bunch of highlights from each game for all those that are interested...

http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29480&displayPage=tab_gamecenter&season=2007&week=PRE2

 

[Greg C.]

Re: WHOOPS!

WHOOPS AWARD: RODGERS FOR 2 FUMBLES.

The first fumble was mostly Scott Wells' fault. He drilled a shotgun snap right into Rodgers' facemask, just as he did to Favre a couple times last season, and Rodgers couldn't handle it. It didn't help that the ball was wet. On the second fumble, the second string O-line's pass blocking did not hold up and Rodgers got hit hard in the pocket. He should've held onto the ball, but any QB will fumble some of those. It's stupid to give a "whoops award" to a player who played so well, and it makes me wonder if this person watched the game or just looked at the stat line.

If I had a whoops award, I would give it to Nick Collins for his missed tackle that turned a 10 yard gain into a 55 yard gain.

 

[TOPHAT]

Packers vs Seahawks Preseason Game: Commentaries & Reviews

http://packers.scout.com/2/669914.html

Packers rout Seahawks, 48-13: The Green Bay Packers showed improvement in all facets - offense, defense and special teams - by whipping the Seattle Seahawks Saturday night at Lambeau Field.

The Packers feasted on a Seattle offense that was missing key starters, including quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, and the Packers’ first-team offense got into gear in a 48-13 whipping of the Seahawks Saturday night in the Packers’ home preseason opener. The Packers turned two fumbles by backup quarterback Seneca Wallace into touchdowns, and rookie wide receiver James Jones caught touchdown passes from Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers as the Packers raced to a 38-13 halftime lead in the annual Midwest Shrine Game on a cool and rainy evening.

The Packers defense, which is expected to be one of the best in the league this season, picked up where it left off in the Packers’ 13-9 win over Pittsburgh a week earlier. Green Bay forced six Seattle turnovers overall (three interceptions, three fumbles) and turned three of them into 21 points as the Packers racked up the most points in a preseason game since whipping the Cedar Rapids Crush 75-0 in 1938 in Ironwood, Mich. "I think we definitely took a step forward as a football team,” said Packers coach Mike McCarthy. “There's a number of positives that we can build on. I'm a little soured by the way the fourth quarter went, but I'm very happy with the progress that we're making. ”We have a lot of work to do. I'm excited about the win (and) I think our team is definitely gaining confidence.” The Packers forced two first-half turnovers that resulted in touchdowns by linebackers Nick Barnett and Tracy White. Both fumbles were off sacks on Wallace, who was smothered by defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and attacked by safety Atari Bigby on separate occasions.

Favre completed seven of 12 passes for 74 yards and a 16-yard touchdown to Jones that gave the Packers a 17-3 lead early in the second quarter. The first-team offense played all of the first half, except for Favre, who was replaced by Rodgers in the second quarter. Left tackle Chad Clifton was replaced by Junius Coston early in the second quarter. Rookie Brandon Jackson finished with 52 yards rushing, including a one-yard touchdown run early on that gave the Packers a 10-3 lead. Jackson played only in the first two quarters and averaged 4.2 yards per carry. He appeared much more comfortable and decisive than in last week’s game at Pittsburgh when he averaged 3.6 yards per carry. "Right now he is our starter,” McCarthy said. “I think he's getting better with each game. I thought he ran with body lean behind his pads better than he did against Pittsburgh for the whole game. It's something he's really working *******.”

Dave Rayner’s 24-yard field goal and Rodgers’ four-yard touchdown pass to Carlyle Holiday midway through the third quarter gave the Packers a 48-13 lead. Quarterback Paul Thompson finished up but was ineffective. He completed five of 10 passes and threw two interceptions while playing the final minute of the third quarter and fourth quarter. Will Blackmon may have secured punt and kickoff return duties with his performance against the Seahawks. Blackmon’s 83-yard kickoff return late in the first quarter set up Jackson’s 1-yard touchdown run that gave the Packers a 10-3 lead. Blackmon broke off a block by Jason Hunter and sprinted down the left sideline before he was dragged down by Michael Boulware, who was penalized for a “horse collar” tackle that pushed the ball to the Seahawks’ 7.

Favre’s touchdown pass to Jones stretched the lead to 17-3 on the first play of the second quarter. The five-play, 51-yard drive was highlighted by Favre’s 22-yard pass to Donald Driver to the Seahawks 18. Favre found Jones on a crossing pattern over the middle at the 13 and the rookie raced to the right pylon for his first touchdown of the preseason. Gbaja-Biamila took advantage of left tackle Walter Jones’ absence by schooling backup Tom Ashworth en route to Wallace, who fumbled the ball away at the Packers’ 38. Barnett scooped up the ball and raced untouched for a touchdown, giving the Packers a 24-3 lead.

Maurice Jones’ 15-yard touchdown run up the middle of Green Bay’s second-team defense closed the Seahawks to 24-10 with 9:52 left in the second quarter. The Seahawks took advantage of Green Bay’s first turnover of the half when Rodgers was unable to handle a shotgun snap from center Scott Wells and fumbled the ball away at the Packers’ 28. Wallace completed a 13-yard pass to fullback Leonard Weaver to the 15 before Jones scored. Mason Crosby’s 37-yard field goal with 7:28 left in the first quarter gave the Packers a 3-0 lead. The Packers went 47 yards on 12 plays in their second offensive series for the score. Favre completed three passes for 21 yards to tight end Bubba Franks, and Jackson pounded his way to the Seahawks’ 19 before the drive stalled when Favre threw incomplete on second and third down.

The Seahawks answered with a 46-yard field goal by Josh Brown on a drive highlighted by Nate Burleson’s 55-yard reception from quarterback Seneca Wallace. On third and 14, Wallace was flushed out of the pocket to his right, then threw across the field to a wide open Burleson, who slipped a high tackle by safety Nick Collins and raced down the middle of the field before he was dragged down by safety Marquand Manuel. Wallace threw incomplete on consecutive plays, forcing the Seahawks to settle for the field goal attempt.

 

[RainX]

Re: WHOOPS!

If I had a whoops award, I would give it to Nick Collins for his missed tackle that turned a 10 yard gain into a 55 yard gain.

I wouldn't completely fault Nick Collins for that 55 yard gain by Burleson.

If you watch the replay, you'll see Nick Barnett come flying in trying to hit Burleson to knock him down as Collins is wrapping him up. Unfortunately, the contact Barnett made hit more on Collins than Burleson, which pretty much knocked Collins off the tackle and helped Burleson break free and bust that huge run.

True, Nick probably should've done a bit better job of holding onto the receiver, but Barnett needs to be sure he's putting more of his hit on the WR and not the DB trying to make the tackle.

Packers/Seahawks Highlights

If you watch the highlights of the game at the above link, you'll see that 55 yard pass play around 30 seconds in. Watch Barnett as he comes in and pretty much knocks Collins right off the tackle.

 

[TOPHAT]

REVIEW

http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com...070819/PKR0201/708190663/1057/PKR&located=RSS

Insider: Lack of depth at linebacker exposed

Thumbs up

It sure looks like the Packers' long search for a capable return man has ended. Second-year cornerback Will Blackmon, a standout returner at Boston College, may have secured that job during the first half of Saturday's preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lambeau Field. Perhaps only an injury, which Blackmon has been prone to, or a colossal miscue in the remaining two exhibition games would change that. The sure-handed Blackmon, who also played some at receiver in college, probably solidified his spot with an 83-yard kickoff return in the first quarter. He showed good vision by finding a small hole and enough elusiveness to slip through it. Once he got through the opening, he flashed decent speed before he was tracked down by Seahawks safety Michael Boulware at Seattle's 15-yard line. Backup receivers Shaun Bodiford and David Clowney actually started the game as the two deep men on the No. 1 kickoff return team. Bodiford took the opening kickoff and returned it 25 yards, but he sustained a knee injury on the play. Nevertheless, Blackmon was viewed as a better prospect, because he already had secured a roster spot as a backup cornerback. Neither Bodiford nor Clowney is assured of a roster spot. Blackmon, who missed all but four games last season due to foot and rib injuries, also was solid on a pair of punt returns, gaining 16 yards on one and making a tough catch just as he got drilled by Seattle's Ben Obomanu on another.

Thumbs down

The Seahawks once again exposed the Packers' lack of quality depth at linebacker. With rookie Desmond Bishop and veteran Tracy White playing the linebacker spots in a nickel alignment with the No. 2 defense, Seahawks backup running back Maurice Morris ran through a wide-open middle of the field for a 15-yard touchdown run. Bishop, who has moved ahead of Hodge as the No. 2 middle linebacker, made the rookie mistake of over pursuing the play and got blocked by fullback Leonard Weaver. White also was in no position to make a tackle. The Packers have little reason to be concerned about their starting linebackers but should be worried if anything happens to Barnett, A.J. Hawk or Brady Poppinga.

Did you notice?


In perhaps the clearest sign that rookie Mason Crosby has moved ahead of incumbent kicker Dave Rayner, Crosby took the first field goal, making a 37-yarder. He also got the first kickoff and the first extra point. Backup quarterback Aaron Rodgers also got extensive work as a holder even though punter Jon Ryan is the top holder. Rayner got three first-half kickoffs and two extra points. His first field goal was a 24-yarder in the third quarter.

The four-year, $16 million investment in defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins keeps looking better. A week after his two-sack performance against the Steelers, Jenkins added another sack when he used a spin move to beat backup tackle Ray Willis. He also stuffed Alexander for a 1-yard loss on a rushing play.

Safety Atari Bigby gave the coaches more reasons to consider using him in place of starter Marquand Manuel. Bigby had a pair of sacks on blitzes. His first one caused Seahawks quarterback Seneca Wallace to fumble, and it led to Tracy White's 34-yard return for a touchdown. Bigby replaced Manuel on the third series and then played alongside Manuel (in place of Nick Collins) on the next series.

Tight end Bubba Franks and rookie receiver James Jones both stood out in the first half. Franks had four catches for 30 yards, and three of those came during a 12-play drive that led to a field goal. Jones continued to be the most productive receiver of the preseason, catching four first-half passes for 58 yards, including a 16-yard touchdown from Favre and a difficult sideline catch from Rodgers for a 32-yard gain on a play that was initially ruled incomplete for being out of bounds but was overturned by a replay challenge.

 

[packedhouse01]

The most important element to me is that they showed improvement from last week. It looks to me as if the defense has the potential to be very good. If they can stay away from giving up the big play they will be very good. I liked the running game last night. All though we didn't break any big runs last night that I can recall, the running game was consistent, which opened up the passing game a little bit. Brett was a little behind the receivers last night, but I think that will improve with familiarity. I like the aggressive coaching style too. They attack on both sides of the ball. Granted Seattle didn't play their starting running back, QB or tackles, but it was still a very good game.

 

[rabidgopher04]

Granted Seattle didn't play their starting running back, QB or tackles, but it was still a very good game.

Shaun Alexander did play. I remember Nick Barnett tackling him.

 

[Fuzznuts]

Re: WHOOPS!

WHOOPS AWARD: RODGERS FOR 2 FUMBLES.

The first fumble was mostly Scott Wells' fault. He drilled a shotgun snap right into Rodgers' facemask, just as he did to Favre a couple times last season, and Rodgers couldn't handle it. It didn't help that the ball was wet. On the second fumble, the second string O-line's pass blocking did not hold up and Rodgers got hit hard in the pocket. He should've held onto the ball, but any QB will fumble some of those. It's stupid to give a "whoops award" to a player who played so well, and it makes me wonder if this person watched the game or just looked at the stat line.

If I had a whoops award, I would give it to Nick Collins for his missed tackle that turned a 10 yard gain into a 55 yard gain.

That's funny.

If it were Favre who committed 2 fumbles there'd be alot of posters jumping all over him now.

Just goes to show.

Rodgers isn't ready for the show.

Playing decently against 2nd and 3rd stringers does not mean he'll be good against the first stringers yet.

He's still got a ways to go. :soapbox:

 

[TOPHAT]

http://www.acmepackingcompany.com/story/2007/8/19/22920/8336

Preseason: Packers 48, Seattle 13

Wow. This was a total *** kicking. There were a couple of negative points, but it was really outweighed by all of the good. There aren't enough game balls to go around. The first great sign was TE Bubba Franks. Against Seattle's starting linebackers, he had four first half receptions, and most importantly a couple of them were for first downs.

With RB Vernand Morency still hurt, it looked like RB Brandon Jackson firmly took hold of the starting job tonight. His stat line isn't anything awesome (13 atts., 54 yds., 1 TD) but he looks ready to play. He is very good at getting quickly to the line then making one cut and going, running low and keeping his legs moving for an extra yard or two after the initial contact. But he has also shown good vision and awareness of the running lanes. On one play, he was running to his left but it was all clogged up, however the right side had opened up wide, he took one step and cut back, running right up the middle for a good gain of several yards. He's shown good hands as a receiver, and honestly reminds me of a young RB Ahman Green. I had been avoiding all the Green comparisons all year because they're obvious since they both played at Nebraska and Jackson was drafted to replace him.

WR James Jones is ready to play in the NFL. It seemed like the 3rd round rookie from San Diego State would need some transition time since he came from a smaller school and didn't start until his senior season, but he had three highlight reel catches in this game. His first TD reception was helped by an illegal screen by Franks that wasn't flagged, but he might have made that TD run anyway. His second catch was a jump ball he took right over Seattle's no. 1 CB Marcus Trufant, and his 2nd TD was a low pass he snagged off the top of his shoes while being defended by Seattle's no. 2 CB Kelly Jennings. I'm singling out Jones from the receivers, but all of them played their best tonight.

On defense, the defensive line as a unit dominated the game. The starters in the 1st half and the backups in the 2nd half all played well. Seattle was playing without their starting offensive tackles, but the Packers played T Junius Coston at either right or left tackle most of the 1st half, and DE Patrick Kerney wasn't abusing him like DEs KGB and Cullen Jenkins schooled Seattle's tackles. However, the best sacks came from LB A.J. Hawk and S Atari Bigby. Hawk had one sack on a blitz where he just threw FB Leonard Weaver to one side and sacked QB Seneca Wallace. The biggest pass rushing terror was Bigby who came flying in one near sack of Wallace in the end zone, another sack led to a fumble and TD return by LB Tracy White, and another leaping sack got QB David Greene. Bigby also looked like a really solid tackler and he's got a great chance to become a starter. CB Jarrett Bush stood out with 2 INTs but all the cornerbacks played well with tight coverage and solid tackling.

The special teams were leaning towards CB Will Blackmon as the return man and he took a big step towards grabbing that job for good. His 83 yard kickoff return was outstanding and his 16 yard punt return was another big return. He forced a fumble on defense too. Ks Dave Rayner and Mason Crosby were perfect too, and it looks like it will be a tough decision between them. Right now I would prefer Crosby because he's got a fluid kicking motion that reminds my of K Ryan Longwell, except he has a stronger leg than Longwell ever dreamed of. Rayner's struggles down the stretch last season are a concern, but he's done nothing to lose his job this preseason.

There were a couple of bad things in the game. Too many turnovers were a problem. Nine penalties were too much, but four of them came on a bizarre 4th quarter punt sequence. It looks like P Ryan Dougherty takes a second longer to kick than incumbent P Jon Ryan and might be throwing off the coverage unit's timing. QB Paul Thompson got a long look for the 3rd string QB job and it wasn't pretty. He had 2 INTs and wasn't very accurate, but he is a big guy who can put some zip on the ball and might be a good 3rd QB project. S Nick Collins couldn't wrap up WR Nate Burleson on a busted play, which led to a 50+ yard reception for Burleson and a Seattle field goal. RB Maurice Morris ran untouched on his TD run, but a great block by Seattle's FB Weaver took out LBs Desmond Bishop and Brady Poppinga, while S Aaron Rouse was called in on a safety blitz so Morris had clear skies once he got past the linebackers.

Perspective is needed (it's only a preseason game and there are still three more preseason games to go) but there was so much goodness in this game that only the hardest cynic would show pessimism right now.

 

[bozz_2006]

but he is on his way. i can feel confident saying that

 

[Fuzznuts]

True, but let's not get ahead of ourselves, ok? :thumbsup:

 

[MassPackersFan]

Re: WHOOPS!

If I had a whoops award, I would give it to Nick Collins for his missed tackle that turned a 10 yard gain into a 55 yard gain.

I wouldn't completely fault Nick Collins for that 55 yard gain by Burleson.

If you watch the replay, you'll see Nick Barnett come flying in trying to hit Burleson to knock him down as Collins is wrapping him up. Unfortunately, the contact Barnett made hit more on Collins than Burleson, which pretty much knocked Collins off the tackle and helped Burleson break free and bust that huge run.

True, Nick probably should've done a bit better job of holding onto the receiver, but Barnett needs to be sure he's putting more of his hit on the WR and not the DB trying to make the tackle.

Packers/Seahawks Highlights

If you watch the highlights of the game at the above link, you'll see that 55 yard pass play around 30 seconds in. Watch Barnett as he comes in and pretty much knocks Collins right off the tackle.

I found it kind of funny that a play like that would happen during the first game after Madden 08 came out, where you can gang tackle and if you do it wrong, you knock your tacklers off the ball carrier.

 

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FAVRE

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BLACKMON KR

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BARNETT LEAP

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KGB SACK

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KAMPMANN SACK

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[TOPHAT]

REVIEW: IMPRESSIONS

http://www.railbirdcentral.com/2007/08/preseason-game-two-impressions.html

Preseason game two impressions

Everyone was concerned about how the first string offense was going to fare after the disappointing performance against Pittsburgh. That Steelers game is now a distant memory after Brett Favre led the offense to an inspiring display versus the Seahawks. The passing game and the running game were clicking, and they didn't have a turnover. It was an A- performance if not a solid A.

Could Atari Bigby be the next starting strong safety for the Packers? His two sacks and forced fumble along with a quarterback hurry were the most impressive. But maybe even better was that he didn't give up any long pass plays like he did against Pittsburgh one week earlier.

The sack attack continued in much the same way it did against Pittsburgh. A.J. Hawk's manhandling of the fullback picking up the blitz was inspiring. Not to be outdone were Cullen Jenkins, Abdul Hodge, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, Larry Birdine who also had sacks.

Bubba Franks may have played the game of his life. It's too bad it had to come in a preseason game instead of a playoff game, but his four catch performance may have saved his job. Not bad was his blocking as well.

Isn't the preseason the time to experiment a little? I keep hearing that if Chad Clifton sustains an injury in the regular season that Daryn College will slide over to left tackle. If that's the case, why not let Colledge get a couple reps at left tackle during the preseason. No one wants a repeat of last year at Miami when Colledge was schooled by Jason Taylor. And I though running back Corey White is supposed to be a versatile player who can play both halfback and fullback. Has he even played a down as a fullback? The Packers had the entire second half to experiment.

As impressive as Favre was, Aaron Rodgers had a 119.o quarterback rating for the game that most people probably won't notice.

It appears as if Will Blackmon has wrapped up both kick and punt return duties for the Packers. Shaun Bodiford and David Clowney should be scared of losing their jobs. Clowney did have three receptions to help prove that he can be more than just a return specialist, though.

Abdul Hodge looked better than Desmond Bishop at the mike linebacker position.

Paul Thompson's two interceptions show that he's probably better off with year of seasoning on the practice squad before he's worthy of making the 53 man roster. Here's to Ingle Martin getting a little more exposure in the final two preseason games. It'll be his only chance for meaningful playing time.

With fullback Ryan Powdrell out for a couple of weeks with a knee injury, the Packers are going to have to go out and find a street free agent to take a little bit of a load off the depleted offensive backfield. Either that or Vernand Morency, Brandon Miree and DeShawn Wynn all have to make comebacks ASAP.

Junius Coston looks assured of a roster spot. He not only stepped in with the first team offense when Chad Clifton was taken out of the game early. He also joined the first team when Clifton was still in the game as an extra lineman in the goal line situation when Brandon Jackson scored his touchdown.

Was Greg Jennings correct about being upset with his role in the offense? Eleven different Packers had receptions against the Seahawks, and Jennings wasn't one of them.

 

[TOPHAT]

OUTSTANDING REVIEW: GRADES

http://www.mytvisonfire.com/packersnation/?p=2302

Packers vs. Seahawks Game Review
Posted on August 19, 2007

Pros:

Cullen Jenkins showed once again that he is bound more for a breakout season. It seems like no tackles can block him. James Jones had another great game. He made several great catches and had two TD catches. If he continues this he will probably take the starting job away from Jennings. Brett Favre rebounded from his bad performance against Pittsburgh. He seemed to have gained more chemistry with his other teammates. Hopefully the Packers offense continues to improve. Atari Bigby had an amazing game. Two sacks and almost a third. Bigby might just take Manuel’s starting job. Jarret Bush also had an amazing game. Two INTs and almost a third. If Bush continues to play like this he will be the #3 CB when the year starts. Aaron Rodgers also had a really good game. He threw 2 TDs and was very accurate. The only mistake that he made was his two fumbles. The high snap fumble you can’t blame entirely on him since it was a bad snap. The second fumble was Rodgers’ fault but in that situation most QBs would have fumbled. He was hit from behind and the ball was very slick from all the rain. Hopefully Aaron Rodgers can continue to improve every week.

Cons:

There really were very few cons in the game. Nick Collins missed a tackle that he should have made. His missed tackle led to a long reception that eventually led to a score. I am guessing that it is a one time thing but Nick Collins can’t keep missing tackles.
Paul Thompson has a long way to go if he wants to become a QB in this league. He made some nice throws in the game but also made several terrible plays. At this point in Thompson would make the roster he would be a huge project.

Ratings:

Quarterbacks-Brett Favre had quite a better game yesterday than he did last week against the Steelers. The 1st team offense did a much better job and they seemed to be more in sync. Favre wasn’t perfect but he seems to be growing chemistry with the rest of the young players on the offense. Aaron Rodgers also had a pretty good game. He threw two nice TDs and seemed comfortable in the pocket. The only negatives were his two fumbles (one was a high snap, and the other play he was blindsighted). Paul Thompson struggled quite a bit. He did move the ball down the field well during one drive. Paul Thompson made two really bad throws though which both lead to INTs. Paul Thompson has a long way to go if he ever wants to be a QB in the NFL. Grade A-

Running Backs-I think Brandon Jackson looked quite a bit better than last week. Jackson seems to run the ball quite well when the offensive line opens up a hole. When the offensive line doesn’t open up a hole he seems to struggle to get more than 2 yards a run. I think Jackson has a way to go yet, but I think he has the ability to be a very good RB. After Jackson, Corey White was the only other RB that seemed to play. Corey White really didn’t show me anything while running the ball. If he doesn’t improve soon I think he will be cut. Grade B+

Fullbacks-Korey Hall actually surprised me with his play. Korey Hall showed that he can block and catch the football. He still is very raw but I can see his potential as a FB. I hope Korey Hall either makes the team or makes the practice squad. Other than Korey Hall there was really no noticeable play from the FB position. Grade B

Wide Receivers-The wide receivers had another good game. Driver had a couple good receptions in the game. James Jones had another great game. He had several great receptions and two touchdowns. Jones continues to impress. If he keeps playing like this he might take Jennings starting spot (Jennings needs to really step up soon). Carlyle Holliday also caught a TD. David Clowney even showed some potential. Grade A

Tight Ends-The tight ends actually played well last night. Bubba Franks seemed to regain his old form and had 4 receptions. Zac Alcorn and Clark Harris also had really long completions. Hopefully the TEs continue to play well. Grade B

Offensive Line-Overall the offensive line played quite well. The pass blocking was pretty good the entire night. I was pleased that the running game finally got going. The offensive line opened some nice holes which led to some nice runs. Hopefully the offensive line can continue to keep the QB safe and open holes for the running game. Grade B+

Defensive Line-Cullen Jenkins played great once again. The entire defensive line did a great job of pressuring the QB. All the Seattle QBs had a hard time throwing the football because they were constantly being pressured. KGB looks like he will do a great job as just a pass rushing specialist this year. Harrell made some nice plays and seems to be improving. Our defensive line is so strong that we will probably have to cut some good defensive lineman. Grade A+

Linebackers-The Linebackers also made some really big plays. AJ Hawk had a sack. Nick Barnett returned a fumble for a TD. Brady Poppinga made several nice plays. Abdul Hodge had the most tackles in the game and also had a sack. The rest of the linebackers also look like serviceable backups. Grade A

Cornerbacks-The Cornerbacks had a really good game. Al Harris and Charles Woodson let no one by them. Jarret Bush had a great game. He did well in coverage and had two interceptions that could have been three. Jarret Bush played so well that I think he will get the #3 CB position. Frank Walker also had some nice defensive plays. If our corners continue to play like this we will lead the league in INTs and have probably a top 5 defense. Grade A

Safeties-The safeties also had a good game. Atari Bigby played so well that I think he is going to overtake Manuel for the starting job. He had two sacks and almost had a third sack. I can see a lot of Leroy Butler in Bigby. He seems to have the same blitzing skills as Butler once had. If Bigby can work on his coverage I think he will be a good to great safety. Along with Bigby, Charlie Peprah also had an INT. The only mistake made by the safeties was Nick Collins missing a tackle which went for a long gain. Grade A

Kicker-Both Dave Rayner and Mason Crosby had good games. They both did their jobs perfectly. What makes their performances even better is that it rained really hard the whole game. I would call the kicking battle a wash in this game since both kickers made no mistakes. Grade A

Punter-At this point it is obvious that Jon Ryan will win the punting job. Jon Ryan has punted really well and Dougherty is not even close to as good of punter as Jon Ryan. Grade B+

Special Teams Returning-I think Will Blackmon probably won the returning job with his 80 yard return. Two players did hurt their chance of making the team. Tramon Williams fumbled a kick and probably lost the job as a potential returner. Shaun Bodiford also hurt his chances by doing nothing special and getting hurt. At this point I would be shocked if Will Blackmon doesn’t win the returning job. Grade B+

Special Teams Coverage-I think the Packers need to work on their coverage. They gave up several big returns but most of them were called back with penalties on the Seahawks. I couldn’t really tell if they gave up the big returns because of the penalties or bad coverage. At this point our coverage teams are a work in progress. Grade B

 

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OUTSTANDING PICS

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HOLMGREN & FAVRE

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