Packers-Indy

The last meaningful preseason game is over for the Packers. A lot of fireworks, but the obviously overblown score doesn't mean anything, but that doesn't mean we can't take away some ideas about how the Packers measure up this year.

First (and best) let's go with the offense. Rodgers and company put up nearly 250 yds of total offense in the first half as ARod went 21 of 29 for 195 yds and 3 TDs (a 48 yd penalty could have been a catch, making his total yds that much higher). The 28-17 halftime lead was bloated by the muff punt TD, but even considering that our offense did well. I liked the 4^th down attempt, but not a QB sneak! ARod demonstrated he can throw a 1 yd. pass to any one of our guys. I'd have taken the FG rather than try the sneak. First team O vs the Indy D would have put up 24 in the first half if I can assume MM would kick the FG. Offense will not be a problem this year!

Next (and OK) were the special teams. They seemed to be better on coverage this week. Even if we leave out the 2 TDs they were good. The Colts never started past the 30 after the initial kickoff (33) until the last minutes of the game. Coverage was much better as was tackling. On the downside, barring the late return TD, the Pack returners didn't do much better than Indy although later in the game things happened. The ST is an open question. I have concerns, but I'm encouraged by what I see.

Lastly, the D… as bad as I thought it was watching the game live; I have to say I was heartened when Capers turned up the heat. The first play from scrimmage accounted for 49 of their 81 total rushing yds. It took Indy 19 tries to get the other 32 yds (1.7 ypc). Manning went only 15 of 26 (58%) for 215 with 2 TDs, but the Packers D forced an Int and a fumble from the 4 time MVP. Manning was obviously impeded from his normal no huddle rhythm by the new umpire positioning rule, but even considering that, the Defense had a good showing.

As we roll to the regular season, I think the Packers are in a great position to take back their perch atop the NFC North. Barring Injury, I think the offense will be one of the best in the league. The D needs to have Matthews and Harris healthy to ensure they continue the solid performance they finished with last year. Special teams are the hardest to rate for the season. Positive movement during the preseason encourages optimism, but we will have to see how they maintain those improvements.