Nov 18, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy talks to quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Packers won 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Here we go again … sticking our necks out with our weekly predictions – this time taking a look at the Packers vs. Lions.

The following is how we feel. Let us know how you feel about our picks.

Bill Walton
Staff writer with his family

Bill Walton: When the Detroit Lions come into Lambeau Sunday night they won’t have much to play for except pride and whatever satisfaction they might derive from beating the Packers in their place.  Detroit has lost 19 in a row at Lambeau. They’ll probably want to break that streak. The Packers would like nothing more than to extend it to 20.

Once again the Packers field a team that is missing several veteran leaders due to injury. One effect is that OT Don Barclay will start at RT. He’ll be the third OT to start there this season. He had what many are calling a good game against Minnesota, but his work will be cut out for him this week agains the Lions D line. RB Ryan Grant has returned to the team after Starks was injured against the Vikings last week. Expect Alex Green to get most of the carries against the Lions but Grant will have some opportunities. WR Jennings is back…but Nelson is out again. It’s times like these that make me really appreciate the guys who put this team together. No other team in the league has the kind of quality depth at the receiver positions that the Packers do.

A late-season divisional game in the snow at Lambeau on Sunday night? What’s not to love about this one? The Packers need this one and it won’t help the Lions at all.

Wife and cat person Deneen thinks the Packers will win 42-14. John and dog person John sees the Pack on top 35-14. I’ll go with the Packers 38-17.

Go Pack GO!

Jason Hirschhorn
Staff Writer

Jason Hirschhorn: This is the first rematch of the season for Green Bay. At this point, we can probably conclude that the Packers have the superior talent. The only personnel change for Detroit since the first matchup is the “loss” of Titus Young. Granted, there aren’t a whole lot of bodies left in the Lions receiving corps, but Young’s absence shouldn’t be a difference maker.

For the Packers, they’ve swapped Jordy Nelson for Greg Jennings and T.J. Lang will probably be an emergency lineman at best this week. While Detroit made considerable inroads against Green Bay’s offensive line earlier, this should be minimized somewhat by the snow that’s expected to fall in time for Sunday night. In my estimation, the sudden dearth of healthy defensive linemen is a bigger concern for Green Bay at the moment. It’ll be up to rookies Jerel Worthy and Mike Daniels to fill the void and stop the Detroit ground game. If they can’t, Mikel Leshoure will have his fourth consecutive game with a touchdown.

Assuming the snow isn’t too heavy, the weather favors the Packers. The greatest impact of snow is on the players’ ability to accelerate, and that means the offensive players can often find greater separation through breaks. The Packers ran behind new RT Don Barclay often in his debut, and that should continue this week. Barclay hasn’t shown he can replicate Lang pass protection, but in an admittedly small sample size he was stronger in the run game. If the Packers can continue to average over 4 yards per carry behind Josh Sitton and Barclay, they shouldn’t have as many stalled drives as last time.

Packers 28 – Lions 13

Ray Rivard
Lombardiave.com Editor

Ray Rivard: Well, here it is December. This is supposed to be the time of year when the Green Bay Packers take over due to their ability to play in cold weather games. Sunday against the Lions they get their chance. Unfortunately, the Packers aren’t really built anymore for these types of games. With their speed and reliance on the pass, the Packers the past few years have become a team that plays better indoors and on a fast track.

But the Lions are a similarly-built team. So, when you compare the two, this game will come down to how the defenses react. I can see the Packers picking off Matthew Stafford a couple of times, because, well, he’s Matthew Stafford and it seems he’s always throwing the ball the to Packers. If the Packers can do a good job in controlling the Lions’ run game – something they were unable to do last week against the Vikings – they should be in good shape.

In addition, if the offensive line can hold together against the Lions’ stout defensive front, they should give Aaron Rodgers enough time to pick apart the Lions secondary. Given the fact that weather could play into this game, I feel the fact that the Packers are playing at home should be to their advantage. While this game will probably be close through the first half and into the third quarter, I think the Packers will do just enough to get the win. Like they have done all season, the Packers will probably once again win ugly.

Packers 23 Lions 16

Thomas Marquardt
Staff Writer

Thomas Marquardt: Injuries continue to bite the Packers on both sides of the ball. Jordy Nelson is out again this week. James Starks, who looked to be hitting his stride, looks like he may be finished for the remainder of the season. If we don’t start getting healthy it will be another gloomy January. Let’s hope we don’t stumble this week.

With Greg Jennings out and Jordy Nelson questionable, do the Packers take Donald Driver off the shelf for this game against the Jaguars? Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The following are the staff picks for today’s Green Bay Packers game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

Ray Rivard: Look for Clay Matthews to have a huge day as he adds to his sack total against one of the worst teams in the NFL. The defense overall plays much better on this sunny Sunday at Lambeau Field. The Packers defense snares at least two picks, one by Casey Hayward, will get at least one defensive touchdown. Offensively, Aaron Rodgers will have another big day, despite not having Jordy Nelson. There will probably even be a Donald Driver sighting – maybe for a touchdown. Alex Green has his best day as a Packer and the offensive line begins to show signs of synchronicity. The game will be close through the first quarter, but the Packers get rolling on their third possession and don’t look back. Packers 38 Jaguars 12

Bill Walton: The Jaguars come into Green Bay with a record of 1-5. They’re missing RB Maurice Jones-Drew, who is their only legitimate offensive threat.  QB Blaine Gabbert has a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder. Defensively the Jags rank in the bottom third of the AFC against the run and the pass, but more importantly their record reflects close losses to average teams and blowout losses to above-average teams. The Packers are an above-average team, and an oustanding offensive team. Even though Green Bay is missing several starters, the Packers are still dangerous enough offensively to win a track meet-style contest if it comes to that. We think the defense fills the holes, makes some tweaks, and performs well enough to keep the Jaguars from even getting close to pulling off an upset of the Packers.

Wife and CheeseMobile pilot Deneen sees this one going to the Packers 38-14. Son, nose tackle, and future Packers season-ticket holder John says it’ll be 41-17 Packers. After much scientific analysis I’m going with Packers 44-16.

We’ll be attending the watch party at Tailgator’s on 242 in The Woodlands, so if you’re looking for a place to watch the game and you don’t mind noisy Packers fans – join us!  Go Pack GO!

Dan Turczynski: This is a game the Packers with thoroughly dominate. The Jaguars come into Lambeau as the worst team in the NFL with no hopes of pulling of the upset. My bold prediction is that Alex Green will become the Packers first 100-yard rusher since Brandon Jackson over two seasons ago. I also think the Packers have a good shot at their first shutout since 2010 when they shutout the Jets 9-0. Packers roll big at home 31-3.

Jason Hirschhorn: There’s been a lot of injured Packers in the news this week. Key injuries. I don’t think Charles Woodson’s absence is going to be a significant factor this week given the Jaguars’ limited offensive capabilities, but if Jordy Nelson isn’t active there could be rhythm and consistency issues with the offense. As great as Randall Cobb and James Jones have been, they’re not go-to-guys yet. This is why you stash Donald Driver all season. I don’t see this as the blowout it looks like on paper without Nelson, but I don’t think it’ll be too uncomfortable. Packers 24 – Jaguars 13

Tommy Marquardt: The Jaguars are near the bottom in both offense and defense whether it is the pass or the run. Ironically, they have played much better on the road than at home. With an apathetic fan base in Jacksonville, these guys have played with more heart when they are in a stadium filled with raucous fans, but this is Lambeau. JAX is without MJD and they have Blaine Gabbert at QB.  The Packers haven’t put on a show at Lambeau yet this season and I expect the them to make a statement on both sides of the ball. Packers 45 Jags 7

October 14, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Clay Matthews (52) reacts after a play during the first quarter against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-US PRESSWIRE

Coming off of last week’s solid performance, It could be easy for the Pack to relax, if it weren’t for weeks 1, 3 and 5. The focus was there on both sides of the ball from the first snap and lasted until the game was well in hand. That’s the Packers everyone expected to see this season. They showed signs of it in earlier games, particularly the Bears game, but never put that complete game together until last Sunday night. Will that focus and intensity carry through to this week’s game at the Rams?

GB Offense vs Rams D:

The Packers have given up the most sacks (23) in the NFL thus far, including 8 in the first half at SEA alone. That’s the bad news. The good news is that since that debacle in SEA (Ugh! I was there!) The Packers O-line has been very good in protection.

Since that 1st half against the seadawgs, the Packers have only allowed 7 sacks in 14 quarters (5 in the second half vs Indy). What they face this week is a defense who knows their offense will, most likely, not give them any room for error. The Rams Defense, like the rest of the Ds in the NFC West, is no slouch. They are tied for 5th in the league in sacks with 18 through 6 games. That makes them dangerous against the Packers pass first approach, especially considering that 9 of those sacks came on 1st and 2nd down.

I’d expect to see Rodgers under some pressure early in the game, probably from the 2 DEs Chris Long and Robert Quinn.  If the line can slow down the pass rush enough to give Rodgers time to get the ball out or use his mobility to create space, I think the Packers Offense will have a big day. If the opposite occurs and the Packers offense get’s itself in 2nd or 3rd and long situations, it will be a recipe for disaster ala Seattle.

I’d hope the game plan includes some quick passes to take some pressure off of Newhouse and Bulaga from the outset, an early screen pass might be nice. The secondary can be beat, especially if Rodgers gets some time.

GB Defense vs Rams O:

The Packers lead the league in sacks thanks, in a major part, to the Clay Matthews effect. The way Dom Capers has elected to move him around to create matchup problems is working well. Jeff Fisher has probably worked all week on addressing the matchup challenges he poses, but the Rams have some of the same protection problems as the Packers, giving up 18 sacks though 6 weeks.

I expect the Claymaker to draw the attention and while the Rams might hold him without a sack, it will likely be a net loser for the Rams offense as Worthy, Neal, and Pickett pick up the slack. If the pass rush can’t get to Sam Bradford multiple times today I’d be surprised.

The Rams rushing offense has been even more anemic than the Packers. They have just 1 rushing TD on the year, by Sam Bradford. Steven Jackson has been pedestrian and I don’t expect the Rams rushing game to suddenly come to life. I’d expect the Packers to ensure that is the case and make Sam Bradford beat them with his arm.

Bottom Line: The Packers are the better team in talent, coaching, and experience. The question is : Was last week the awakening of the sleeping giant or a moment of clarity for an inebriated drunk stumbling home? I’m betting on the former. PACKERS 31 – Rams 17

Will Aaron Rodgers really get sacked at least five times in St. Louis? Troy Taormina-US PRESSWIRE

It’s always fun to take a look at what the opposing side is saying, so that’s what I did this morning when I clicked on over to Fansided.com’s St. Louis Rams fan site Ramblin Fan.

What I found was a posting by their lead writer and editor, Nathan Kearns, which has the headline that includes “5 bold predictions.”

First of all, these are his opinions and his alone. While I’m not sure he watched the Packers’ beatdown of the Texans last week and remembers his Rams losing to the Miami Dolphins – at home – I think these bold predictions are just that – very bold.

I find it difficult to believe the Packers won’t reach 300 yards of total offense, nor do I believe the Rams will get five sacks on Rodgers, nor do I think this game will be as close as Nathan feels.

But hey! Maybe I’m all wrong. Maybe Nathan knows more than I see going in.

I guess we’ll see.

But in the meantime, take a look at what he’s said … you might want to read it before the game starts, too.

And while you’re at it, check out Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

The weather forecast for this Sunday’s Packers game against the New Orleans Saints couldn’t be better. With the autumnal colors in near-full radiance and the sun shining high overhead, the two teams will renew a series that has seen many exciting moments over the years.

Surely, Sunday’s game will provide many more memories for all attending, but getting there and getting home is always the most important thing for all involved.

So, with that in mind, here is some important information for all those traveling to Green Bay this weekend. It’s provided by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

Take a look at the press release provided by the department before hopping in the car.

Packer travel advisory – Road construction update in Northeast Wisconsin

(Green Bay) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Northeast Region is reminding motorists heading to Lambeau Field on Sunday, September 30 for the Green Bay Packers / New Orleans Saints football game that the road construction season continues on most major roads in Northeast Wisconsin. While most projects will stop and two lanes of traffic will be open, drivers might still encounter road conditions in the work zones that could cause backups.

WisDOT strongly recommends motorists allow themselves additional time to reach their destinations.

Here is a list of the major roads in Northeast Wisconsin most Packers fans will be traveling and the road conditions they should anticipate:

US 41

·        Brown County – Drivers will encounter 11-foot travel lanes and reduced shoulders in multiple locations along a 10-mile segment of highway. The speed limit is reduced to 55 mph from just south of Scheuring Road to I-43.

·        Winnebago County – A majority of 12 miles of highway, from 9th Avenue to Breezewood Lane, has restricted shoulders, 11-foot travel lanes and speed limits reduced to 55 mph in both directions.  Backups should be anticipated along this stretch of roadway.

WIS 29

·        Brown County – WIS 29 is closed to traffic between Packerland Drive and US 41 with all WIS 29 traffic being rerouted to the new Shawano Avenue adjacent to old WIS 29. Access is maintained to US 41 from WIS 29/Shawano Avenue. Closing WIS 29 and moving traffic to the new Shawano Avenue will significantly increase congestion at this location. Motorists that use this stretch of road are strongly encouraged to seek alternate routes. This new configuration will remain in effect until April 2014.

WIS 32

·        Brown County – Motorists traveling southbound on WIS 32/Ashland Avenue following the game are advised to use WIS 172 to access US 41 and avoid using the temporary ramp from WIS 32/Ashland Avenue directly to US 41. The Ashland Avenue median at Parkview Road is also closed. Access to and from Parkview Road, at Ashland Avenue, is limited to right-turn in and right-turn out onto Ashland Avenue.

County G (Main Avenue)

·        Brown County – The US 41/Main Avenue interchange is closed for reconstruction. This closure includes all ramps and Main Avenue, from Ashwaubenon Creek to Lawrence Drive. The Lawrence Drive park and ride lot is also closed for reconstruction.

WIS 54

·        Brown County – The WIS 54 and Seminary Road intersection has been reconfigured during roundabout construction that could slow traffic and cause backups at this location.

I-43/Leo Frigo Bridge

·        Brown County – Traffic on I-43 at the Leo Frigo Bridge is reduced to a single lane with speeds reduced to 55 mph in both directions over a 3.5-mile segment of the highway. In addition, the following ramps are closed to traffic:

o   Southbound I-43 off-ramp to Webster Avenue

o   Northbound I-43 on-ramp from Webster Avenue

o   Southbound I-43 on-ramp from Atkinson Drive

 

WIS 57

·        Sheboygan County – WIS 57 is closed between WIS 144 and WIS 23. The posted detour includes I-43 and WIS 23.

Oneida Street – Village of Ashwaubenon

·        Village of Ashwaubenon – Oneida Street will now have two lanes open in each direction for all home Packer games.

Headed to Lambeau Field tonight? Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Interested in watching tonight’s preseason game?

Well, if you don’t have tickets to Lambeau Field for 2012s first game at the iconic stadium, here’s a primer for what you may want to know.

The weather

August 3, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers fans hold up signs during the Family Night scrimmage at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

But if you are going, you might want to check out the weather conditions first: In fact, if you’re heading to the stadium very early – like this morning or early afternoon – you might want to bring an umbrella. And then don’t forget to pack a Packers sweatshirt or sweater because by game time it looks like it will be a bit chilly.

For more information on the weather, check it out here.

Also check out Packers.com game day information – they have everything you need to know

On the road

And did you know there is construction on Hwy. 41. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has provided the following nicely put together list for those who may be on the road to Green Bay tonight. Check it out:

Packer travel advisory

Road construction update in Northeast Wisconsin

(Green Bay) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Northeast Region is reminding motorists heading to Lambeau Field on Thursday, August 16 for the Green Bay Packers / Cleveland Browns football game that the road construction season continues on most major roads in Northeast Wisconsin. While most projects will stop and two lanes of traffic will be open, drivers might still encounter road conditions in the work zones that could cause backups.

WisDOT strongly recommends motorists allow themselves additional time to reach their destinations.

Here is a list of the major roads in northeast Wisconsin most Packers fans will be traveling and the road conditions they should anticipate:

US 41

·        Brown County – drivers will encounter 11-foot travel lanes and reduced shoulders in multiple locations along a 10-mile segment of highway. The speed limit is reduced to 55 mph from just south of Scheuring Road to Memorial Drive.

·        Winnebago County – a majority of 12 miles of highway, from 9th Avenue to Breezewood Lane, has restricted shoulders, 11-foot travel lanes and reduced speed limits in both directions.

WIS 29

·        Brown County – motorists traveling on WIS 29 will have to drive on 11-foot traffic lanes with reduced shoulders on five miles of highway from County FF to US 41. These restrictions affect both eastbound and westbound traffic lanes.

WIS 54

·        Brown County – the WIS 54 and Seminary Road intersection has been reconfigured during roundabout construction that could slow traffic and cause backups at this location.

I-43/Leo Frigo Bridge

·        Brown County – traffic on I-43 at the Leo Frigo Bridge is reduced to a single lane with speeds reduced to 55 mph in both directions over a 3.5-mile segment of the highway.

Radio stations

Boise, Idaho

• KJOT/105.1 FM [4]
• KQXR/100.3 FM [5]
• KRVB/94.9 FM [6]
• KTHI/107.1 FM [7]

Knoxville, Tennessee

• WCYQ/93.1 FM [8]
• WKHT/104.5 FM [9]
• WKTI/1040 AM [10]
• WWST/102.1 FM [11]

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

• WLWK/94.5 FM [12]
• WTMJ/620 AM [13]

Omaha, Nebraska

• KEZO/92.3 FM [14]
• KKCD/105.9 FM [15]
• KQCH/94/1 FM [16]
• KSRZ/104.5 FM [17]
• KXSP/590 AM [18]

Springfield, Missouri

• KSGF/1260 AM, 104.1 FM [19]
• KSPW/96.5 FM [20]
• KTTS-FM/94.7 FM [21]
• KZRQ/106.7 FM [22]

Tucson, Arizona

• KFFN/1490 AM
• KTGV/106.3 FM [23]
• KMXZ/94.9 FM [24]
• KQTH/104.1 FM [25]

Tulsa, Oklahoma

• KFAQ/1170 AM [26]
• KVOO-FM/98.5 FM [27]
• KXBL/99.5 FM [28]
• KHTT/106.9 FM [29]
• KBEZ/92.9 FM [30]

Wichita, Kansas

• KFDI-FM/101.3 FM [31]
• KLIO/1070 AM [32]
• KFXJ/104.5 FM [33]
• KICT-FM/95.1 FM [34]
• KFTI-FM/92.3 FM [35]
• KYQQ/106.5 FM

Keep in mind that this is just the road construction report, for winter weather driving conditions.

In the meantime, here’s the information from the DOT:

Packer travel advisory

December 29, 2011

Road construction update in northeast Wisconsin

(Green Bay) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Northeast Region is reminding motorists heading to Lambeau Field on New Year’s Day 2012, Sunday, January 1 for the Green Bay Packers/Detroit Lions football game that the road construction season continues on most major roads in northeast Wisconsin. While most projects will stop and two lanes of traffic will be open, drivers might still encounter road conditions in the work zones that could cause backups.

WisDOT strongly recommends motorists allow themselves additional time to reach their destinations.

Here is a list of the major roads in northeast Wisconsin most Packers fans will be traveling and the road conditions they should anticipate:

US 41

Brown County — Drivers will encounter 11-foot travel lanes and reduced shoulders in multiple locations along a 10-mile segment of highway. The speed limit is reduced to 55 mph from just south of Lombardi Avenue to WIS 29.

Winnebago County — Certain segments of 16 miles of highway, from WIS 26 to Breezewood Lane, have restricted shoulders and 11-foot travel lanes, especially in the vicinity of the US 45 interchange area.

For more information, contact:
Communications Manager Kim Rudat, WisDOT NE Region
(920) 492-5743, Kim.Rudat@dot.wi.gov

Communications Manager Kris Schuller, WisDOT-US 41 Project
(920) 492-4109, Kris.Schuller@dot.wi.gov

For the weather, it’s best to take a look at the current weather conditions in the state by clicking on this link.

Ready yourself for a different look at football from a guy who is part of a site that really likes to have fun.

Enjoy the ride and the laughs after the jump … and don’t forget to Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

(more…)

The following is direct from the DOT.

Packer travel advisory
Road construction update in Northeast Wisconsin
 
(Green Bay) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Northeast Region is reminding motorists heading to Lambeau Field on Sunday, December 11 for the Green Bay Packers/Oakland Raiders football game that the road construction season continues on most major roads in Northeast Wisconsin. While most projects will stop and two lanes of traffic will be open, drivers might still encounter road conditions in the work zones that could cause backups.  
 
WisDOT strongly recommends motorists allow themselves additional time to reach their destinations. 
 
Here is a list of the major roads in northeast Wisconsin most Packers fans will be traveling and the road conditions they should anticipate:
 
US 41
Brown County – drivers will encounter 11-foot travel lanes and reduced shoulders in multiple locations along a 10-mile segment of highway. The speed limit is reduced to 55 mph from just south of Oneida Street to Velp Avenue.
 
Winnebago County – certain segments of 16 miles of highway, from WIS 26 to Breezewood Lane, have restricted shoulders and 11-foot travel lanes, especially in the vicinity of the US 45 interchange area.

Don't forget that Sunday's game at Lambeau Field starts at 3:15 p.m.

The Green Bay Packers PR department issued a press release today announcing a reminder that Sunday’s game time has been pushed back to 3:15 p.m. from the originally scheduled noon start.

But in addition to the announcement, there is so many other things happening prior to game time … everything from who is singing the National Anthem, to what branch of the U.S. Armed Services will be doing the flyover, to what former players will be honored during the team introductions.

For the compete details, take the jump and don’t forget to Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

(more…)

Donald Driver caught four passes today for the Packers for a total of 72 yards. The yardage also took him over 10,000 yards as a Packer.

For the first time this season, the Green Bay Packers needed a late fourth quarter drive that ended in a 40-yard touchdown pass to Jordy Nelson to gave them a comfortable lead as they held on for a 35-26 win at home against a pesky Tampa Bay Buccaneers squad.

The Packers got a rushing touchdown from B.J. Raji near the end of the first quarter and a 5-yard TD pass to Tom Crabtree just as the second quarter started as the Packers took a 14-0 lead and it looked like the blowout was on.

However, that was before the Bucs got a 54-yard touchdown run one minute later from Lagarrette Blount as Tampa Bay cut the Packers lead to 14-7.

Tampa then got its offense moving, but as the Packers have done all season, they bent but didn't break. After the Bucs converted a field goal, the Packers came right back when Jordy Nelson caught his first TD pass just before halftime to give Green Bay a 21-10 lead going into the locker room.

Tampa scored the only points in the third quarter, a field goal, but opened the fourth quarter with an eight-play, 91-yard drive that ended with a 9-yard TD pass to Mike Williams. Tampa went for the 2-point conversion, but failed and GB led 21-19.

The Packers then came back with their own long drive, 8 plays, 85 yards, that was capped when John Kuhn scored from two yards out.

After the Packers held the Bucs, Aaron Rodgers threw an interception and the Bucs went on 5-play, 50-yard drive for a score to cut the Packers lead to two points, 28-26.

That's when Nelson caught the touchdown that was the difference-maker.

Highlights included Nelson catching six passes for 123 yards and two scores, Driver catching four for 72 yards, and Rodgers going 23-34 for 299 yards, 3 touchdowns and a QB rating of 112.3.

Driver's catches also took him over 10,000 yards as a Packer.

On defense, Tramon Williams also came up with two huge drive-stopping interceptions for the Packers.

Oh yeah, B.J. "the freezer" Raji scored the first touchdown of his career on a one-yard plunge in the first half.

The Packers will take their 10-0 record to Detroit Thursday for an 11:30 a.m. Thanksgiving Day game.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan blog site, The Pewter Plank headed by editor Patrik Nohe, caught up with Lombardiave.com for our take on today’s game at Lambeau Field.

The following is the Q&A that concludes with our game score prediction:

Q: Aaron Rodgers is playing out of his mind, be honest because I don’t want a homer answer here, nobody dreamt he would be this good in Wisconsin, did they?

A. The only ones who knew what Aaron Rodgers brought to the table were GM Ted Thompson and Coach Mike McCarthy. When they dealt Brett Favre to the Jets and told everyone that Rodgers was the guy, I’m sure you could hear the collective scream all the way down in Florida. Brett was God in these parts and nobody knew anything about Rodgers other than the fact he rode the bench for three years.

So, you’re right – nobody was ready to jump on Rodgers’ bandwagon and it took nearly two seasons for fans to warm up to him.

And then last year happened … And now with what’s going on this year, nobody talks about Brett Favre anymore.
(more…)

One of the highlights of tomorrow's game at Lambeau Field will be a performance by the UW-Madison Marching band. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Headed to Green Bay tomorrow for the Packers vs. Bucs game?

Well, Green Bay Packers officials are reminding all about some very important information that everyone should heed as they head to, get to, and enjoy the game.

The following is a press release the Packers distributed yesterday. You may want to take a quick gander:

The Green Bay Packers have reminded gold package season-ticket holders to plan ahead for enhanced screening that will take place at Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and allow extra time for entry into the stadium.

Game attendees traveling to Green Bay on U.S. Highway 41 also should note that construction zones will require increased drive time. Additional information on highway construction and specific affected areas is available online at http://us41wisconsin.gov.

Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

(more…)

Charlie Peprah had two huge interceptions today against the Chargers. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Whew!

That’s what all Packers fans are saying after watching Green Bay hold off a major fourth quarter charge by the San Diego Chargers … holding on to a 45-38 win after leading by 21 points at the start of the fourth quarter.

A four-touchdown, 21-26, 247 yard performance by Aaron Rodgers was nearly overshadowed by the Chargers’ fourth quarter comeback led by Philip Rivers who threw for 385 yards and four touchdowns, while completing 24-46. However, it was Rivers’ three picks, two that were returned for touchdowns, that was the difference.

(more…)

Ok, Packers fans, with kick-off of the Packers vs. Chargers game just minutes away, it’s time to get fired up!

What better way to do that than to take a listen to the Packers’ fight song?

Here you go:

Packers fight song!

Ernie Padaon of the San Diego Chargers’ Bolt Beat sent some questions out to us at Lombardiave to get a little more insight on this week’s game between the Green Bay Packers and Chargers and here is what we had to say:

Q. Since most San Diego fans (Chargers and Padres) have no idea the joys for a fan when their team wins the big one, can you describe it to us?

A. Two words – pure ecstasy! It’s better than … well, almost better than sex, but it’s pretty darned close.
When you follow a sports organization for years and there are so many times when the expectations fall short or the team loses a heartbreaker that they should have won, it’s got to be some of the most excruciating pain, both mentally and physically.

But on the flip side, when a team, like the Packers last year and the baseball Cardinals this year, come out of nowhere to win their league’s championship, it’s just an unbelievable experience. As sports fans, we have to go into each season with only the highest expectations, knowing that nine times out of 10, those expectations can’t be reached. However, when the team does win it all, it’s nothing short of great. Not only does the team win the championship on that particular day, but you get bragging rights for the entire year that follows.

Q. Saw that the Pack is on the front of Sports Illustrated this week, do you believe in the SI jinx?

A. The Packers have been on the cover of SI before and have never been affected by the “jinx.” Of course, one could point to many other individuals and teams who have never been affected by the jinx.

The only team affected by the jinx are the Bears … ahahaha … that’s a joke. We don’t like the Bears much in these parts.

Q. How do you slow down Aaron Rodgers and that offense?

A. The only way to slow down an offense in the NFL these days is with your own offense. If Aaron Rodgers and the Packers offense is on the field, they are going to move the ball and they are going to score.

The key to keeping Aaron Rodgers off the field is to make sure your own offense plays ball control and keeps the Packers offense off the field for as long as possible.

Of course, another way is to cover like a blanket and get a good rush together to put pressure on the Super Bowl MVP. The problem with that is that Rodgers is even more deadly on the run than he is in the pocket.

Q. How do you beat the Packers this season?

A. Again, ball control is key. Keeping the Packers defense on the field could make a difference in whether a team is able to beat the Packers.

Attacking the Packers through the air has been a double-edged sword for opponents. While the Packers defense has been gashed by big plays throughout the first half of the season, they have also had the knack for coming up with the big plays at just the right times. They’ve forced fumbles and interceptions several times … huge plays that have made a difference in the outcome of the game.

Will they be able to continue to do that? Who knows? They are on a roll and it may be difficult to stop them at this point, but I find it difficult to believe that there isn’t a team out there who has the potential to put together just the right ingredients to pull out a win against the Packers.

The Chargers, though reeling from the loss at Kansas City, could be angry enough to do it. We’ll see.

Q. Predictions for the game?

A. I think the Packers will be able to absorb the initial energy surge put forth by the Chargers … I feel San Diego will probably come out sky high, much like Atlanta did a few weeks back. Like every game this year, the Packers will fight through the adversity of being down early. They will settle in, play their game and Rodgers will pick apart the Chargers’ secondary.

In the end, the Packers will head back to Wisconsin with a win, 38-24.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Jordy Nelson led the Packers with 104 yards, 93 of which came on a single touchdown reception. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The Packers turned in an painfully boring 24-3 win over the St. Louis Rams today where probably the most excitement came when AJ Hawk jumped up from a sack and extended his middle finger toward the Packers bench.

Odd situation which most likely will be one of the first questions asked about

More on that in a later post.

In fact, the biggest news came out of Detroit just after the Packers had sewn up their win … the 49ers did the Packers a huge favor by knocking off the Lions 25-19, propelling the Packers into sole possession of the NFC North and left them as the only unbeaten team in the league.

That all came after the Packers had long left the field and had taken their showers.

But it helped put an exclamation point another solid day for both the Packers’ offense and defense.

Again the Packers defense was gashed early, bending but not breaking. The defense continually stiffened when the Rams ventured into Packers territory with a mix of a solid running game and a proficient passing effort by Sam Bradford.

The play of the game came when  Jordy Nelson beat former Packers cornerback Al Harris down the left sideline, juked the safety, and ran 93 yards for a touchdown.

(more…)

Al Harris always came ready to play when he manned the corner for the Packers. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Al Harris, Brady Poppinga and Josh Gordy will all get the man hugs, fist bumps, high fives and smiles from their former Green Bay Packers teammates today prior to the Packers and St. Louis Rams, but after that it’s time to play ball.

Harris, the most popular of the former three Packers, will probably get the most welcomed greeting from Packers fans, but Poppinga also had several successful years with the team. Both won Super Bowl rings with the team last year.

“I spent eight years there,” Harris to the the St. Louis Post-Dispatch earlier this week. “Had a great time. A lot of snaps. But today is today, and we’ve got to prepare like that.”

Harris gets a shot at his old team today, as will Poppinga, who is a starting linebacker for the Rams. Harris gets on the field because of devastating injuries in the Rams’ defensive backfield.
Harris was cut in the middle of last season after coming off the PUP (physically unable to perform) list. He spent some time with the Miami Dolphins, was injured again and signed on with the Rams this past spring. (more…)

James Starks will play an important role in getting today's running game going. He and his teammates will also wear their 1929 throwback uniforms in today's game. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Justin Stine of Ramblin’ Fan queried Lombardiave.com about today’s game against the St. Louis Rams.

Here are Stine’s questions and our answers:

1. The Packers are the defending champs and are undefeated thus far in 2011. Would you call them the favorites again this season, or is there a weakness you see that could cause a problem?

Through five games, I would have to say the Packers performance so far gives them a great chance of repeating their championship from a year ago. It’s a team that’s focused and ready to take it to the next step … another Super Bowl title.

But to get there will be a huge challenge … especially with the many breakdowns so far by their defense. Though the team seemed to pull it together last week after the two early touchdowns by the Falcons, the Packers’ defense needs to show consistency in stopping the big plays and the big players.

They did that last week and if the D can continue to show that type of performance, then they will have a very good shot at repeating. The only ones who can stop the Packers’ offense is the Packers offense. They’ve had some injury issues on their offensive line, but have been able to limp through those difficulties.

(more…)

Get to Lambeau early today ... it will take longer to get into the stadium. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Heading to Lambeau Field today for the Green Bay Packers vs. St. Louis Rams game at noon?

Well, you might want to leave a few minutes early.

That’s because it will take more time entering the stadium. “Enhanced screening” is the reason. Mandated by the National Football League, these new safety measures are great for safety, not so great for the fans who have to endure the extra time it takes to complete the inspection of each individual.

Stadium gates will open two hours prior to kickoff (10 a.m.) and police at each gate will use hand-held metal-detecting wands to conduct the screening.

Though additional screening officers as well as a streamlined process were put in place, it’s still being advised that fans arrive early.
To keep things running smoothly, it’s recommended that fans follow the following tips:
·         Enter the stadium earlier than in the past;
·         Use the stadium gate indicated on the ticket; and
·         Bring no or a minimal number of items into the stadium (small purses, etc.) to minimize wait time.

For more information, visit www.packers.com/gameday/gameday-information.

Be sure to Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.