Apr 25, 2013; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the NFL shield logo and main stage before the 2013 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

We have always liked Ted Thompson’s comments about the NFL Draft and his baseball analogythat it’s not always

The Green Bay Packers war room. Ted Thompson sits at the head of the table (left).

possible to hit home runs when you come to bat – that’s it’s a matter of working the averages and scoring when you can.

For all four teams in the NFC North, there were some hits and misses, as you can see and read below in the individual team grades provided below by walterfootball.com.

Who did better? Who did worse? Again, you could pull together the specific numbers, but at this point in April that’s a bit foolish – we all know championships aren’t won in the offseason – they are won when players hit the field, coaches do their magic and things like schedule and injuries start to work their mystical effects on just how the NFL season transpires.

What we can see clearly below is that each of these teams took a different path in this draft – with many of the moves based on total numbers of picks, where they were situated and the players available to them at the time of each team’s selections.

There were some surprises (Kyle Long to the Bears; Nate Palmer to the Packers; and Jeff Locke to the Vikings), but there were some home runs, too (Sharrif Floyd to the Vikings; Eddie Lacy to the Packers; Cornellius Washington to the Bears; and Larry Warford to the Lions).

Minnesota Vikings 1st round draft pick Sharrif Floyd
Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

How this particular draft gets judged will be debated for the next several months as the “experts” tear apart the numbers, the names and the statistics. But one thing is for certain – as each of these teams spend the next week or so signing undrafted free agents to complete their rosters heading into the training portion of the NFL season, all of them have improved their status with fresh, enthusiastic and young talent that will change the landscape once again across the NFL.

For all of the NFC North selections, see below. And don’t forget to click on over to walterfootball.com for more information than one can absorb in a lifetime … it’s an incredible football site.

 Chicago Bears (Last Year: 10-6) 

2013 NFL Draft Individual Grades: 

Kyle Long speaks during a Chicago Bears press conference.
Reid Compton-USA TODAY Sports

20. Kyle Long, G, Oregon: D Grade 
Well… at least this fills… a need… Umm… I’m kind of speechless right now. With Tyler Eifert and stud defenders like Desmond Trufant and Sylvester Williams available, the Bears decided to take an inexperienced second-round guard. Long may have been around for Chicago’s next selection, so this pick is extremely questionable.

Follow @walterfootball for updates.

50. Jon Bostic, ILB, Florida: B Grade 
The Bears hope they’ve landed their successor for Brian Urlacher. Middle linebacker was a big need, and Jon Bostic is definitely worthy of being chosen 50th overall. I would have gone with Arthur Brown, but there must be major medical concerns with him because he has first-round talent.

117. Khaseem Greene, OLB, Rutgers: A Grade 
Khaseem Greene was viewed as a second-round talent by many, but it’s not too surprising to see him fall a bit because he doesn’t fit many defenses. The Bears don’t mind though, as they fill a need with a good value selection. s

163. Jordan Mills, OT, Louisiana Tech: B Grade 
So, I guess the Bears wanted to focus on the offensive line and linebacker groups in the draft. Jordan Mills is a right tackle who should be able to challenge J’Marcus Webb. He fits the range, so this is a solid pick.

188. Cornelius Washington, DE, Georgia: A+ Grade 
I don’t understand why Cornelius Washington fell to the middle of the sixth round. Washington is a Day 2 talent. He is raw, but that’s fine because the Bears won’t really need him until Julius Peppers moves on.

236. Marquess Wilson, WR, Washington State: A- Grade 
Why not? Marquess Wilson was once considered a second-round prospect, but he quit on his team because he didn’t get along with head coach Mike Leach. It has to be considered that Leach is a bad guy, so Chicago is right to take a shot on Wilson.

 Detroit Lions (Last Year: 4-12) 

2013 NFL Draft Individual Grades: 

5.

Detroit Lions first round draft pick Ezekiel Ansah.
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

, DE, BYU: B+ Grade 
Finally, a good pick! I’m tired of bashing these teams. Well, OK, maybe not. But this selection makes so much sense. The Lions had a close look at Ezekiel Ansah at the Senior Bowl where he dominated the competition during the actual game. He’s a great fit in Detroit’s wide-nine formation, and will replace the departed Cliff Avril. He’ll be instrumental in Detroit’s pursuit of Green Bay in the NFC North.

Follow @walterfootball for updates.

36. Darius Slay, CB, Mississippi State: B- Grade 
Darius Slay was projected to go in the first half of the second round, so the range of this pick makes sense. Cornerback was also a need, though not as great of a need as people think. Having said that, what Detroit plans on doing at left tackle is beyond me. Matthew Stafford probably won’t make it through the 2013 season.

65. Larry Warford, G, Kentucky: A Grade 
This is an awesome pick. Larry Warford should have been chosen near the top of the second round. He is monstrous mauler who figures to be a huge upgrade on the interior of Detroit’s offensive line.

132. Devin Taylor, DE, South Carolina: B Grade 
The Lions had to find two defensive ends in this draft because they lost both Cliff Avril and Kyle Vanden Bosch. Devin Taylor is a good fit in the wide-nine formation, and this is the right range for him.

165. Sam Martin, P, Appalachian State: C- Grade 
Unlike the Vikings, Detroit actually needed a punter. But this is still a bad pick. Again, it’s like selecting a kicker in the 10th or 11th round of a fantasy league. It’s lazy. Solid punters can be found as undrafted free agents.

171. Corey Fuller, WR, Virginia Tech: B- Grade 
I’m surprised the Lions waited this long for a receiver. I feel like there were better options than Corey Fuller, but this is still a fine pick. It’s just disappointing that Detroit couldn’t secure a solid No. 2 option across from Calvin Johnson.

199. Theo Riddick, RB, Notre Dame: B Grade 
Reggie Bush isn’t exactly the most reliable player in the league, so it’s good that the Lions added some depth at running back. At the very worst, Riddick will add some punch in the return game.

211. Michael Williams, TE, Alabama: A- Grade 
This is a solid pick. I thought Michael Williams would go earlier than this. Detroit got a good look at him at the Senior Bowl. The team needed some tight end depth.

245. Brandon Perburn, ILB, Florida A&M: B Grade 
The Lions needed linebacker help, so this makes sense in terms of both need and draft range.

 
 Green Bay Packers (Last Year: 11-5) 

2013 NFL Draft Individual Grades: 

UCLA Bruins defensive end Datone Jones was the Packers first round selection.
Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

26. Datone Jones, DE/DT, UCLA: A- Grade 
Datone Jones has been discussed as high as No. 19 to the Giants, so the Packers are getting good value with Datone Jones. They’re also getting a tremendous upgrade on the defensive line. Green Bay was completely obliterated by Colin Kaepernick, so the team needed to find players to help them stop the read option. Jones is a great fit, as Ted Thompson continues to be one of the better drafters in the NFL.

Follow @walterfootball for updates.

61. Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama: A+ Grade 
Ted Thompson makes this looks so easy. Not only did he sit and wait for the top running back in the 2013 NFL Draft; he also moved down and still managed to maintain him. Eddie Lacy would have been a first-round pick if it weren’t for an injury that he’ll quickly recover from. He’ll be a tremendous upgrade in the backfield.

109. David Bakhtiari, OT/G, Colorado: A Grade 
Ted Thompson loves versatile linemen, and David Bakhtiari definitely fits the bill. He can play both tackle and guard positions, so he’ll definitely help somewhere on an offensive line that needed to be upgraded. Baktiari was an early third-round projection, so the value is good.

122. J.C. Tretter, G/OT, Cornell: B- Grade 
Another versatile offensive lineman, though J.C. Tretter is more of a guard whereas David Bakhtiari should be at tackle. I’m not as crazy about this pick because I feel like Tretter could have been taken a round later.

125. Johnathan Franklin, RB, UCLA: A+ Grade 
Wow, what a steal! Johnathan Franklin was viewed as the top running back in this class by some, so it’s inexplicable that he fell all the way to the bottom of Round 4. Projected as a player similar to Warrick Dunn, Franklin will form a tremendous one-two punch with Eddie Lacy out of the backfield.

159. Micah Hyde, CB/S, Iowa: B Grade 
Micah Hyde played cornerback at Iowa, but he may have to move to safety in the NFL because of speed concerns. Ted Thompson could be fine with that. He likes versatile players and needed help at the safety position. I thought Hyde would go in the middle of the fifth round, so this is the right range for him.

167. Josh Boyd, DE/DT, Mississippi State: B Grade 
It’s no surprise that the Packers spent two selections on the defensive line because they have some expiring contracts coming up soon. Josh Boyd is a solid selection who fits the range as a fifth-round prospect.

193. Nate Palmer, DE/OLB, Illinois State: C Grade 
Nate Palmer wasn’t a draftable prospect, but that’s not a big deal at the end of the sixth round. What’s more surprising is that the Packers waited this long to take a pass-rusher.

216. Charles Johnson, WR, Grand Valley State: B Grade 
Wide receiver is another position I thought the Packers would address earlier. Charles Johnson is a seventh-round prospect, so he makes sense at this spot. He might be able to make the team.

224. Kevin Dorsey, WR, Maryland: C Grade 
This is a much more questionable receiver pick. It’s the seventh round, but I don’t think many would have considered Kevin Dorsey in the old 12-round format.

232. Sam Barrington, LB, South Florida: B Grade 
Considered a seventh-round prospect, Sam Barrington should be able to contribute on special teams and provide solid depth.

 
 Minnesota Vikings (Last Year: 10-6) 

2013 NFL Draft Individual Grades: 

Minnesota Vikings 1st round draft picks Sharrif Floyd (76) and Cordarrelle Patterson (84) and Xavier Rhodes (29) sign autographs and pose for pictures with fan Shane Swanson at the 2013 1st round draft picks press conference at Winter Park.
Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

23. Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida: A+ Grade 
Wow, I forgot Sharrif Floyd was available. I feel like some of the other teams like the Bears, Giants and Cowboys did as well. This is the best pick in the 2013 NFL Draft thus far. Floyd is a stud interior pass-rusher who could have easily gone No. 3 to the Raiders. But as we see every year, great prospects fall because dumb teams are picking at the top of the draft.

Follow @walterfootball for updates.

25. Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State: B Grade 
Xavier Rhodes was mocked as early as No. 12 throughout this process, so he definitely provides good value at No. 25. However, the Vikings run the type of defense that allows teams to pass on corners in the first round. Minnesota probably should have filled other needs like receiver. That said, this is still a solid selection because Rhodes could be considered the best player available.

29. Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee: B- Grade 
The 29th and 52nd choices are swapped between Minnesota and New England, so the Vikings are essentially giving up third- and fourth-rounders for this choice. They better make it count, so why not go for the home run with Cordarrelle Patterson? Minnesota desperately needed receiving help after losing Percy Harvin. Patterson is raw – which is why he dropped to No. 29 – but he has so much potential. The problem is that the Vikings don’t have a quarterback to get him the football.

120. Gerald Hodges, OLB, Penn State: B Grade 
The Vikings haven’t picked in nearly 100 selections, but they continue to draft well. Gerald Hodges fits the range and definitely fills a need, as Minnesota’s linebacking corps needs major retooling.

155. Jeff Locke, P, UCLA: D Grade 
I’m not a fan of drafting a punter in the first five rounds, especially when a punter isn’t needed. Maybe the Vikings have grown tired of Chris Kluwe’s Twitter antics, but it’s still not a reason to take a punter at this point. It’s like drafting a kicker in the 11th round of your fantasy league.

196. Jeff Baca, G, UCLA: B Grade 
Pegged as a sixth-round prospect, Jeff Baca should compete for a starting guard job eventually. The position is very weak for Minnesota, so Baca could be an upgrade.

213. Michael Mauti, ILB, Penn State: A Grade 
Maybe I’m biased as a Penn State alumnus, but I love Michael Mauti. He’s an instinctive linebacker with tremendous leadership ability; he kept the team together in the wake of the sex scandal. He would have been a second-day pick had he not torn his ACL. It wouldn’t surprise me if Mauti eventually emerged as the starter.

214. Travis Bond, G, North Carolina: B Grade 
Another guard? Well, Minnesota needed two of them. Travis Bond makes sense in the seventh round.

229. Everett Dawkins, DT, Florida State: A Grade 
Kevin Williams will likely be gone next year, so another defensive tackle makes sense. Everett Dawkins was considered a mid-round prospect, so he’s a bit of a steal here.

Detroit Lions kicker Jason Hanson retired Thursday. He never experienced a win against the Green Bay Packers.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The Green Bay Packers kicking game went south last season – so far south that Packers kicker Mason Crosby was a shell of himself – the opposite of what we saw year-in and year-out by the Detroit Lions’ Jason Hanson.

Hanson, the 21-year veteran who was the model of consistency each and every year he was in the National Football League, was injured for part of last season and still managed to convert 88.9 percent of his kicks (32-of-36), while Crosby 63.6 percent (21-of-33).

Hanson announced his retirement yesterday, saying it was time. He did everything right over the past two-plus decades, making 82.4 percent of his kicks (495-of-601). He also tagged on 665 extra points. He missed only eight point-afters over the course of 21 seasons – pretty incredible statistics.

Mason Crosby’s team wins, but he hasn’t come close to duplicating the consistency that was produced by Detroit Lions kicker Jason Hanson.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Those are statistics that Crosby must be dreaming about. If he sticks around for 21 years, one would only hope he could recreate Hanson’s stats.

The only thing that must be sticking in Hanson’s craw is the fact that during those 21 seasons, not once did he ever – and I mean EVER- beat the Green Bay Packers in the state of Wisconsin. He tried his best. Every time he came on the field against the Packers, one knew it was an automatic make. But it wasn’t enough because – well, because he played for the Lions. He was the kicker for some pretty bad teams over the course of his career – but not all of them. He had his chances … it’s just that the Packers have had the Lions number for a very long time.

As reported on CheeseheadTv.com, Associated Press writer Noah Trister, said: “The Lions losing streak on the road against the Packers began in 1992, Hanson’s rookie season. Detroit has not won a road game against Green Bay since 1991. That includes games played in Milwaukee in 1992, 1993 and 1994.”

That’s not to say he wasn’t the best kicker in the league during that stretch of time. He was always a classy player, never boasted about his accomplishments and gave place-kickers a good name.

In making his decision to retire, Hanson said: “It was time to make a decision. It was the right time to step away. Ultimately, it’s my heel – the problem I developed last year. Now that we’re starting a new year, it’s still an issue. I have the desire. I have the determination, as I said earlier, to come back. Each time I’d start to push it, I’d kind of short-circuit. I realized that at this point of my career, I don’t want to perform in a compromised way. It’s not good for the team. I lost a little of my desire to play injured.”

Jason Hanson
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

As a Packers fan, I won’t miss watching Hanson convert kick after kick and then trying to compare the Packers’ kicking game with that of Hanson’s over the years – there is no comparison.

Hanson scored a total of 2,150 points in 327 games. To date, Mason Crosby has kicked in 96 games in six seasons. We hope his goal is to recreate what Hanson has accomplished – except for the winning part.

When thinking about it, if Crosby can convert even 70 percent of his kicks and still continue to win games, that would be OK, too.

How the Packers move from this offseason and into the future will have an impact on this franchise for years to come.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Predictably, Green Bay Packers General Manager Ted Thompson has been silent while the Internet is blowing up and telling what he should be doing.

Yes, the Packers haven’t made any noise in the free agency sweepstakes the past two days, but if you measured the amount of excitement waiting to boil over among those in Packers Nation, one gets the feeling that this is all going to change sometime soon. Those who don’t like the fact that Thompson is the proverbial wallflower – the one who dreads being at the dance, but waits for Prince Charming to come and change life – will be singing a different tune if and when Thompson comes away with both Greg Jennings and Steven Jackson.

Will Greg Jennings continue to catch passes from Aaron Rodgers?
Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

Is it possible for both of those players to help the Packers level the free agency playing field? I think so, but Thompson might have to give a bit to get his guys. Yes, Thompson wants those two players at his price, but c’mon, Ted, you’ve also got to bend a bit … not a lot … just a bit.

And once that happens, the Packers will be able to counter what’s been happening across the NFC North and go into the Draft with a couple of fewer imminent needs met.

So just what has been happening across the NFC North?

Here’s a look at each of the teams as provided by the fansided.com team trackers:

Chicago Bears

• signed TE Martellus Bennett to a four-year contract
• signed OT Jermon Bushrod to a five-year contract

Detroit Lions

• re-signed LB DeAndre Levy to a three-year contract
• re-signed WR Kassim Osgood to a one-year contract
• re-signed FS Amari Spievey to a one-year contract
• re-signed CB Chris Houston
• signed DT Jason Jones
• signed RB Reggie Bush to a four-year contract

Minnesota Vikings

• re-signed WR Jerome Simpson to one-year contract
• re-signed RT Phil Loadholt to a multi-year contract
•  re-signed C/G Joe Berger to a one-year contract
• re-signed S Jamarca Sanford
• re-signed FB Jerome Felton to a three-year, $7.5 million contract
• re-signed LB Erin Henderson to a two-year contract

While the Vikings traded away Percy Harvin and the Lions lost Cliff Avril – both to the Seattle Seahawks, all three of these teams seem to be working the game the way they feel is best for their teams. And when you throw in the Bears, well they got their targeted offensive lineman and a new face at tight end.

So, when do the Packers join the party?

That’s up to Ted Thompson … let’s hope he doesn’t let the chance slip away. This free agency period could be his legacy. Let’s hope we remember his legend in a bright light.

Dec. 16, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA: Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Lions 38-10. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

When it comes to quarterback play, the Green Bay Packers are fortunate. Not only have the Packers transitioned from one Hall of Fame quarterback to another, but they also possess the top passer in a division stocked with talented arms. The NFC North is one of only two divisions where every starting quarterback has led their team to the playoffs. In the modern NFL where passing and the ability to defend the pass are the strongest indicators of wins and losses, it’s important for Green Bay to keep tabs on the quarterbacks it sees most often.

With that in mind, let’s profile the resume and project the future for one of the NFC North’s other quarterbacks.

So without further adieu, the final NFC North quarterback under the microscope is…

Dec 30, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Ford Field. Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Name: Matthew Stafford

Team: Detroit Lions

Age: 25

Experience: 45 games, 44 starts

Resume: Matthew Stafford is the NFC North’s most intriguing case study. Stafford’s first two seasons were defined by injury, but both included extremely promising moments.

In his first complete season as a starter, Stafford exploded for a jawdropping 5,038 yards and 41 touchdowns. Yet Stafford’s more impressive statistic was 6.2 – the percentage of his passes that went for touchdowns. For context, the only passers that year who exceeded that figure were Tom Brady (6.4 percent), Drew Brees (7 percent), and Aaron Rodgers (9 percent).

Stafford’s touchdown percentage would have been top five in any of his four seasons in the NFL. Helping matters further, Stafford threw 2.56 touchdowns for every interception that year. It seemed as though his incredible physical gifts were finally coalescing with his mental preparation and that Stafford would soon be entering the pantheon of the NFL’s top quarterbacks.

And then came the 2012 season.

While Stafford narrowly missed another 5,000-yard season, virtually all of his other metrics regressed considerably. Stafford’s touchdown total was more than halved while his interceptions went up. He passed for his worst completion percentage since his rookie year, and averaged a Christian Ponder-like 6.8 yards per attempt.

Yet the most damning metric was Stafford’s touchdown percentage. It dropped from 2011’s impressive 6.2 percent to a paltry 2.8 percent, bad enough to finish bottom five in the league. The only players with worse figures were rookies and Matt Cassel. This comes at a time when the Detroit Lions are looking to extend Stafford’s rookie deal. How the Lions grade Stafford at this point in his career is anyone’s guess.

Dec 22, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) congratulates wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) during the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Ford Field. Falcons won 31-18. Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Projections: Despite his 2012 woes, Matthew Stafford projects very well. If there is one quarterback who can take Rodgers’ title as the best quarterback in the NFC North, unlikely as that may be, it’s Stafford.

He possesses the strongest arm in the division, and with Calvin Johnson just entering his prime, there is no reason to expect Stafford won’t be able to return to his high volume, high efficiency form. Detroit has no plans to bring in any competition, and probably couldn’t do so if they wanted to with their cap situation.

With the Minnesota Vikings in a war of words with Percy Harvin and the Chicago Bears entering the first year with a new head coach, there are games up for grabs. Frankly, even the Packers could take a step back this season with their losses on offense.

Stafford should perform much closer to his 2011 form, and if he does so the Lions are a real threat to challenge for a playoff spot and perhaps the division.

Jason Hirschhorn covers the Green Bay Packers for Lombardi Ave. He has previously written for Hail to the Orange, College Hoops Net, Mocking the Draft, LiveBall Sports, and the List Universe. He is currently a senior writer for Beats Per Minute, an indie-music webzine. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/JBHirschhorn.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rogers, who has no reason for worries these days, watches the game between the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers at the Staples Center. Clippers won 117-101. Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Ted Thompson and the Green Bay Packers have made several moves this morning to solidify the team’s position and finalize the cap space available to the team as the free agency period commences this afternoon.

Ted Thompson
Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

By tendering a low level offer to center Evan Dietrich-Smith and and a second tier offer to Sam Shields, the Packers have committed about $3.3 million toward restricted free agents. The Packers didn’t extend tenders to tight end Tom Crabtree, Robert Francois or Frank Zombo, throwing those players to the market. However, reports indicated the Packers were trying to work out a deal to retain Francois.

Factoring in Johnny Jolly’s reduced salary of just more than $700,000, the Packers were set to enter the free agency period about $18 million under the salary cap, the most of any team in the NFC North. But the Packers are the only team that didn’t factor into the free agency game. Rather, it appears the Packers are poised to commit to long-term contracts for Aaron Rodgers and Clay Matthews with the bulk of the funds remaining.

Percy Harvin
Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Elsewhere in the division, the Bears, who are said to be aggressively working the available free agent offensive linemen, have about $7 million to $10 million available in cap space; Detroit, which has been working the Reggie Bush lines all weekend, have $6 million available; and Minnesota, which pulled off the Percy Harvin trade yesterday and are poised in an attempt to either land receivers via free agency or the draft, have about $15 million available.

With less than two hours before the bell for the start of free agency rings, it looks as though it will be a quiet one for the Packers, while the Bears land at least one offensive lineman, the Lions try to shore up their running game, and the Vikings make a run at either Mike Wallace or Greg Jennings.

But let me throw this out there: Talk has been that the Packers haven’t given up on Jennings yet and that negotiations continue with his agent … suppose, just for the fun of it, that the Packers find a way to free up more money (releasing A.J. Hawk or restructuring his deal?), and get the go-ahead from both Rodgers and Matthews to waylay their extensions for another year so they can re-sign Jennings …

Greg Jennings
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

I know, you think I’m crazy. I think I’m crazy. But hey! This is the National Football League where just about any kind of crazy thing can occur.

Just some food for thought as we sit waiting for something to happen.

Stay tuned …

Dec. 23, 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Reggie Bush (22) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the third quartet against the Buffalo Bills at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Our pal Zac Snyder, the editor over at our Detroit Lions Fansided sister site , sidelionreport, is pulling for Reggie Bush … and for good reason. There has been talk for some time now that the former New Orleans Saints and soon-to-be former Miami Dolphin could be headed to the Motor City.

That was until recently when reports have noted that there are three teams, which might include the Lions, who may be talking serious money (can they do that, NFL?) in an effort to sign Bush.

While Bush would be a good fit in Detroit – a team that has struggled like many others in keeping a healthy running back on the field – there are other teams who are feeling the same way. The 27-year-old seven-year veteran averaged 4.3 yards per carry with the ‘phins last year, while falling just short of 1,000 yards (986) on 227 carries. He scored six times last year.

The Lions ranked twenty-third in rushing as a team in 2012 with 1,613 yards on 391 carries (4.1-yard average). They averaged 100.8 yards per game last year, but are looking to improve those stats to balance their attack and take some of the offensive pressure off quarterback Matthew Stafford and the passing game.

According to Snyder’s report today about the interest in Bush, he noted this from The Miami Herald’s Armando Salguero [who has] been able to get some vague details on Bush’s situation in this early contact period:

A source very close to Bush tells me three teams have been talking to Bush agent Joel Segal and that money involved in those talks is significant. The source would provide no details of the money or name the teams but it is clear the interest in Bush isn’t just of the making-a-call variety.

The source is, however, telling me the Dolphins are not one of those teams.

Snyder went on to say:

The report doesn’t name the Lions but it wouldn’t surprise anyone if they are one of the three. While that will likely excite many Lions fans, the categorization of the money being “significant” likely wont.

As with everything between now and the officially opening of free agency, all we can do is stay tuned.

We all know it comes down to the showing of the money … we’ll be watching closely here at lombardiave.com, too.

Dec 9, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Alex Green (20) rushes with the football during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Green Bay Packers defeated the Detroit Lions tonight 27-20, an ugly win that put the Packers a full game ahead of the Chicago Bears for the NFC North Division lead.

Utilizing a solid running game and just enough big plays, many them by Randall Cobb, the Packers overcame a 14-0 deficit and a dominant performance by the Lions in the first half to take over the game in the second half when they scored 17 points. Cobb caught seven passes for 102 yards to lead the Packers and though Calvin “Megatron” Johnson caught 10 passes for 118 yards they kept him out of the end zone and contained him for the most part.

The Packers’ win tonight sets up a huge showdown with the Chicago Bears next week in Chicago. With a win, the Packers would clinch the division title. A loss would put the Packers and Bears in a tie for the lead.

Here is a play by play from the Packers versus Lions at Lambeau Field.

Packers kick off

LeShoure for 4

Second and 6 LeShoure for 1

Third and 5 pass to Calvin Johson for 10 firat down

Frist and 10 from the 35, pass to Chris Durham for 5

Second and 5 from Lions 40, LeShoure for 10

First and 10 from thje Lions 48, handoff to LeShoure for no gain

Second and 10, Packers called offside

Second and 5, Bell for 11 off left tackle

First and 10 from the Packers 35, Stafford to Johnson – offside Packers and pass interference by Johnson offset

First and 10, Stafford with the block on a reverse for 22 yards

First and 10 from the 13, inside handoff to LeShoure to the 10

Second and 5 from the 9, Stafford pass to Stephan Logan to the 5,

Third and 1, from the 3, Stafford hands off ot LeShoure up the middle

Fourth and 1, Lions go for it – Stafford under center runs bootleg and runs it in for the TD

57 yards on that drive picked up on the ground

Stafford 3-3 for 17 yards

Drive: 12 plays, 80 yards in 7:44

Lions 7 Packers 0

Lions kickoff is short and fielded by DJ Williams and he gets a 12 yard return

Packers first possession

First and 10 at Packers 33, Rodgers under center, DuJuan Harris gets the pitch runs right for 10

First and 10, quick pass from Rodgers to Cobb for 5

Second and 5, ball at 49, Rodgers handoff to Alex Green for 3

Third and 2 at Lions 49, Rodgers in gun, Rodgers runs for first down to the Lions 41

First and 10, handoff to Green for 8 – running hard up the middle

Second and 2, Rodgers escapes the rush and hits Cobb on the right sideline for 20

First and 10, ball at Lions 13, Rodgers scrambles right and throws short to Jermichael Finley

Second and 10, Rodgers sacked by Lawrence Jackson and fumbles … Lions recover

Seven play drive with no points for Packers

Lions second possession

First and 10 from Lions 20

Second and 8, Stafford in gun pass to Tony Scheffler for first down

First and 10, Bell for 3 up the middle

Second and 7 Troy Bell for 10 and a first down

First and 10 – Packers offside

First and 5 from the Packers 44, Stafford under center, pass toward Johnson on right sideline knocked down by Williams

Second and 5, Logan carried for 3

Third and 2, pass to Scheffler for 5 and a first down

End of the first quarter

Lions have possession for 11 minutes 30 seconds in first quarter.

First and 10 from Packers 37, Joique Bell for 3

Pass to Durham who makes an incredible one handed catch

First and goal Bell for 2

Second and goal, pass for a touchdown to Tony Scheffler – Lions called for unsportsmanlike penalty to be assessed on kickoff

Drive: 11 plays, 79 yards in 5:48

Lions 14 Packers 0

Lions kickoff  to Cobb  with a good return of 29 yards to the Packers 38

Packers second possession

First and 10 Rodgers under center, pass to Greg Jennings down the right sideline 30

Rodgers handoff to Green, for 8, but holding called on Josh Sitton

First and 18, quick pass to James Jones dropped

Second and 18, Draw play to Green for 12

Third and 6, pass to Kuhn incomplete

Crosby in for 48 yard FG attempt good

Drive: 6 plays, 31 yards in 1:55

Lions 14 Packers 3

Packers kickoff to Stephan Logan

Lions third possession

First and 10 from the 27 Stafford pass over the middle to Will Heller for 6

LeShoure for 3

Third and 1, Stafford sidearms a pass under heavy rush and completes to Heller

First and 10, Stafford rushes up the middle for 6

Timeout Lions

Second and 4, LeShoure for 3 up the middle

Third and 1, ball at the 48, pass to Durham for 8 and a first down

First and 10, Stafford fumbles the ball on pass attempt, picked up by Defensive lineman Mike Daniels who runs it in 43 yards for the touchdown

Mike Daniels 43 yard fumble return for TD (Mason Crosby extra point is GOOD), 6:15

Drive: 0 play, 0 yard in 0:00

Lions 14 Packers 10

Packers kickoff to Lions for touchback

Lions fourth possession

First and 10 from the 20, Stafford in the gun, passes a slant to Johnson for 14

First and 10, Stafford under center, hands off to LeShoure for 3

Second and 6, Stafford passes incomplete broken up by Tramon Williams

Third and 6, pass over the middle to Bell for first down,

First and 10 at Lions 48, inside handoff to LeShoure for 3

Second and 7, LeShoure runs off left tackle for 8 and a first down

First and 10, Stafford pass long over the middle intercepted by Sam Shields who returns it out to the Packers 45

Packers possession

First and 10, Rodgers in the gun on first down, inside handoff to DuJuan Harris for no gain

2-minute warning

Second and 10, Quick pass to Cobb gains 1 yard

Third and 10, false start on Sitton

Third and 15, pass to Cobb for 5

Fourth down and punt

Masthay punts touchback, but Lions called for holding

First and 10, ball at the Lions 10 LeShoure for 3

Packers timeout

Second and 7, Bell for 2

Packers second timeout

Third and 5 from the Lions 15, Stafford in gun calls timeout

Third and 5, 47 second remain in the half, pass to Johnson for a first down

Lions kneel on it

End of first half

Lions 14 Packers 10

First half statistics courtesy of si.com

Packers

Lions

Lions

Kickoff to Packers, Cobb with return

Frist down pass to Jones,

First and 10, quick shovel pass to Cobb who fumbles and Barclay recovers

Second and 14, pass to Finley for 8

Third and 14, pass incomplete, but personal foul on Suh

First and 10, Finley pass from Rodgers for 9

Second and 1, ball at 36, handoff to Green for 2 and a first down

First and 10, Rodgers under center, pass left to cobb for 6

Second and 4, ball at the Lions 33, Rodgers throws long down left sideline incomplete

Third and 4, Rodgers in gun, Rodgers scrambles and runs 24 yards for the touchdown

Drive: 8 plays, 74 yards in 3:06

Packers 17 Lions 14

Packers kick off to Lions

Logan with 28 yard return

Lions possession

First and 10, from the 28, reverse to Mike Thomas for 3

Second and 7, pass to Scheffler incomplete

Third and 7, pass to Johnson over the middle for first down, penalty on Morgan Burnett

First and 10 from Packers 36, LeShoure for 2

Second and 8, pass to Johnson for 6

Third and 2, pass incomplete – Johnson falls

Hanson with 46 yard FG is good

Packers 17 Lions 17

Lions kick off to Packers

Cobb with the return

First and 10, Green for 1

Second and 9, Rodgers throws incomplete

Third and 9, pass over the middle to James Jones for a first down

First and 10 from 43, Green off right tackle for 10 and another first down

First and 10, pass to Boykin for 4 yards

Second and 6, inside handoff to Green for no gain

Third and 6, pass to Jennings incomplete

Fourth down punt by Masthay – logan fair catch

Lions possession

First and 10, LeShoure for 1

Second and 9, pass incomplete over the middle

Third and 9, ball at Lions 11, pass incomplete

Fourth down punt, Cobb fair catch at the 50 – 4:26 left in the third quarter

Packers possession

First and 10 at the 50 Cobb with the one handed catch for 24

Second and 10, pass to Green incomplete

Third and 10, Rodgers sacked

Crosby 52 yarder no good

Lions possession

First and 10 at the Lions 42, LeShoure for 3

Second and 7, LeShoure for 5, but Detroit called for holding

Second and 17, pass to Johnson for 11

Third and 6, pass to Bell for big first down

First and 10, pass to Johnson for 6

Second and 4, LeShoure for 1

End of third quarter

Third and 4, pass down left side incomplete

Fourth down

Hanson from 51 yards – short

Packers possession

First down and 10 from the Packers41, Green off tackle for 6,

Second and 4, Green runs sweep for 2

Third and 2, Rodgers in the gun, delay to Green up the middle for 6 and a first down

First and 10, Green for 9 off right tackle

Second and 1, Ryan Grant for his first carry picks up 13 yards

First and 10, ball at the Lions 19, Green falls, gets up and picks up 6,

Second and 4, Juan Harris for 14 yards and a touchdown – walks in untouched

Drive: 7 plays, 59 yards in 4:04

Packers 24 Lions 17

Packers kick off Stephan Logan returns it to the Lions 27

Lions possession

First and 10 from the 27, Pass to Will Heller for 8, penalty on Packers illegal hands to the face on BJ RAji

First and 10, pass to Heller for 6

Second and 3, Bell for 2

Third and 1, Bell for 1 and a first down

First and 10, pass incomplete to Durham

Second and 10, Bell for 2

Third and 8, pass incomplete

Fourth and 8, punt – Cobb fields short punt and returns it to the 43

Packers possession

First and 10, Rodgers slips in pocket and throws deep down the middle incomplete for Jennings

Timeout Green Bay – first

Second and 10, pitch to DuJuan Harris for loss of 1

Third and 11, huge pass to Cobb for 36 yards

Timeout Packers at 5:36 mark

First and 10, ball at Lions 26, DuJuan Harris for 1

Second and 9, Harris for 2

Third and 7, pass incomplete to Jennings in the end zone

Crosby hits 41 yard FG

Drive: 7 plays, 40 yards in 3:09

Packers 27 Lions 17

Packers kickoff short to lineman

First and 10 from 30, pass nearly intercepted by Sam Shields

Second and 10, pass deflected by DL Mike Daniels

Third and 10, pass to Johnson for first down

First and 10, penalty on Lions – false start

First and 15, pass to Bell for 6

Second and 11, pass to Johnson and another first down

first and 10 , ball at Packers 44, Stafford passes incomplete

2:41 remain

Second and 10, Stafford n the gun, passes to right sideline and interception dropped by Casey Hayward

Third and 10, pass incomplete, coverage by Hayward

Fourth and 10 from the 44, pass intercepted by Jaron McMillian

However, the replay shows McMillian trapped the ball … but the Packers still get the ball on the change of possession on downs.

Packers possession

First and 10 Green for 2

Lions first timeout

Second and 8, Kuhn loses 3

Third and 11,

Lions second timeout

Rodgers falls down for a sack

Lions final timeout

Fourth down punt by Masthay down to the 23 yard line

Two minute warning

Lions possession

First and 10, Stafford pass complete to Durham

first and 10, pass to Heller for 8,

Second and 2, pass incomplete, but illegal contact called on Tramon Williams

First and 10, 1:06 left – pass to Bell over the middle for 8,

Second and 2, long pass downfield into triple coverage incomplete

Third and 2, 35 seconds remaining, pass over middle to Bell

17 seconds remaining

Second and 10, pass to Johnson to the 18

34 yard FG by Hanson is good

Packers 27 Lions 20

Lions onside kick with 7 seconds left – Hanson kicks it out of bound

Packers victory formation

Packers win seventh out of 8

Lions lose fifth in a row.

Final statistics by si.com

Read More: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/gameflash/2012/12/09/5099/index.html#ixzz2EcY7LJN8

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.

We thank Zac for taking the time to answer our questions, but certainly can’t say good luck in tonight’s game.

Here’s what he had to say:

Q. Nick Fairly played well last time against Evan Dietrich-Smith and it seems like Mr. Suh has also been playing well. Now with UDFA Don Barclay set to start on the right side that the Lions defensive line is probably primed for a big game. What do the Packers do to slow them down?

A. Suh and Fairley have been playing well of late but it had shown up more early in the game than in crunch time. The Packers will just have to keep playing physical and not let a one on one loss get to them.

Q. The Lions offense is roasting defenses the past few weeks, but the team still finds ways to lose. What is it that the Lions have to clean up to put a notch in the win column?

A. It is the same issue that has plagued the Lions all year and that is there always seems to be an element if their game that is out of whack. It various from game to game and even quarter to quarter.

A. Yes, it actually has been decades, not since 1991. Are they capable? Sure, but they have to prove it.

Q. Have the personnel issues being experienced by the Lions this season been enough of a distraction to contribute to their disappointing campaign?

A. yeah, maybe and it provides a convenient narrative. It’s really been a combination of things that just haven’t gone right.

A. No, but their pass rush should be. The plan has always been to get a good rush to make up for the deficiencies of the secondary but that is another aspect that hasn’t gone according to plan.

Right now, Green Bay looks to be in the swath of area that the winter storm covering the Upper Midwest this weekend … with the amount of snow ranging around 3-6 inches. How much of that will fall during the day and how much will still be falling by game time at 7:20 Sunday night remains to be seen.

Clearly, the weather conditions will play some part in how Sunday’s game will be played, with the likelihood that the running game may become a huge factor. Neither team has ripped up the league with their run games, so how it will all play out it about as predictable as the weather.

Here’s a look at what the weathermen were saying Saturday night …

http://bcove.me/lugc3k7j

Nov 19, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) celebrates after catching a pass for a touchdown as Detroit Lions cornerback Jacob Lacey (21) reacts during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

After 10 games, 574 receiving yards, 54 catches, and 7 touchdowns, it’s apparent to even the most passive observer that receiver Randall Cobb has become the Packers most dangerous weapon. On its face alone that’s impressive, let alone after Cobb’s impact on the return and running game is factored in.

The second year receiver has been such a revelation that Greg Jennings’ pending free agency, a major preseason storyline, has become a complete afterthought.

And it was so close to not being that way.

Nov 27, 2010; Knoxville, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) is tackled from behind by Tennessee Volunteers linebacker LaMarcus Thompson (42) at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-US PRESSWIRE

Randall Cobb wasn’t an unknown commodity heading into the 2011 draft. Not only had Cobb made an All-SEC first team, but he had done so for the lowly Kentucky Wildcats. His return skills and overall versatility were also widely celebrated. Most draft experts had Cobb projected to go as high as the first round.

Yet Cobb fell, and six receivers were taken before he landed to Green Bay on the final pick of the second round. All but A.J. Green and Julio Jones, both top 10 selections, have been irrefutably inferior to Cobb. While it isn’t news to anyone that players often outperform those drafted ahead of them, or vice versa, it seemed odd at the time that Cobb fell so far. Nowhere is this more apparent than pick 44.

The Detroit Lions, wanting a speedy receiver to take pressure off Calvin Johnson, selected Boise State’s Titus Young. Young’s profile was very similar to Cobb: A somewhat diminutive pass catcher with fantastic speed and quickness who was highly productive in college.

Detroit will be left questioning this decision for quite some time.

While their career numbers are nearly identical at this point – Cobb has 79 catches for 949 yards and 8 TDs while Young has 80 catches for 990 yards and 10 TDs – these are two players moving in opposite directions.

Young hasn’t progressed as a playmaker despite increased opportunities. His production is basically the same as last year, and he hasn’t done anything to make defenses think twice about double-teaming Calvin Johnson.

Cobb on the other hand has been thrust into the role of lead receiver. And he has flourished. In the last six games alone, Cobb has 412 receiving yards and 7 TDs on 36 receptions. That’s more catches, yards, and touchdowns than Young’s entire 2012 season to date.

Now imagine what the Packers offense would look like this year without Cobb. Jennings and Nelson have missed a lot of time, and while James Jones has played great and deserves even more praise than he’s receiving, this team is two or more games worse without Cobb’s play.

It’s early, but the preliminary returns indicate Cobb could go down with Aaron Rodgers as the greatest draft robberies of the Ted Thompson era.

Nov 19, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) and tight end Jermichael Finley (88) celebrate after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

The Green Bay Packers, without nearly one-quarter of their regular players, took on the Detroit Lions at Ford Field and despite many penalties, dropped passes and the inability to sustain drives, the Packers sneaked out of Detroit with a 24-20 win.

” We couldn’t get no rhythm … We didn’t get many plays on offense, had a poor third down conversion. Th line battled hard … the line fought really hard and when we had to have it in the fourth quarter they came through,” Aaron Rodgers said.

Randall Cobb, who caught one of two Aaron Rodgers touchdown passes, was the player of the game. It seemed his touches were, for the most part gold – with the exception of a couple of boneheaded plays on returns.

“Randall is a big time player for us and a big part of our offense. We try to get him in space … he made an incredible catch on his touchdown. Cobb is so smart and he understands progressions and timing and when he needs to get open.”

But consider that the defense also came to play without the likes of players like Woodson and Matthews. It was

Overall, the Packers offense was lethargic as it seemed  the Lions defense played over their heads during much of this game.

Throw in some big defensive plays and it was enough to give the Packers the slim, much-needed win.

” I thought the defense played extremely well. The situation defense and the ability to get off the field was very big for us today. The young guys like Dezman Moses and Casey Hayward played physical and tough,” Coach Mike McCarthy said after the game.

“Our defense kept us in it had to have drive at the end,” Aaron Rodgers said immediately following the game.

“This is the kind of win really good teams find a way to win. We just had to have it. We talked on the sidelines that if the defense holds we have to make the most of it. When the best was needed we were able to come through.”

If there was a theme for the first half of this game, it was the Packers inability to close the book on several situations as dropped passes, frequent penalties and beakdowns on offense and defense allow the Lions to sneak away with a 10-7 first half lead.

Nov 18, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Erik Walden (93) tries to tackle Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Packers beat the Lions 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-US PRESSWIRE

The defense continued to make plays through the second half in some pressure situations and there wasn’t anyone more happy about that than Aaron Rodgers.

He also credited the character of this team:  ”We have a mature team. Smart veterans on it who have won a lot of games like this in the past and understand what takes to win.”

Some good notes to report:

• James Starks rushed 25 times for 74 yards and Randall Cobb carried twice for 29 yards

• Cobb had nine receptions for 74 yards, 1 touchdown; Finley caught 3 passes for 66 yards, 1 touchdown; and Jordy Nelson caught 3 for 45

• Johnson was targeted 11 times with just 5 receptions – he did have 143 yards and 1 TD, but 53 of them came on a single play and 20 more came on the final play of the game.

• The Packers turned the ball over once, while the Lions turned it over four times

• The Packers sacked Stafford five times, while the Lions sacked Rodgers three times.

• Rodgers had a passer rating of 106.4

Below, you will find a complete play by play of this game, with some photos and comments sprinkled in …

First half of play

Packers kick off

Touchback

Lions first possession

First and 10 from own 20, short pass on rollout to Brandon Pettigrew for 3

Second and 7, Pass over the middle defended by Casey Hayward well; knocked down

Third and 7, pass to Johnson dropped  hit by Hayward.

Fourth down punt to 39 yard line- 38 yard punt

Randall Cobb. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Packers first possession

First and 190 from the 39, Swing pass to Randall Cobb left side for 5

Second and 5, Straks run left – Cobb punshes tacklers and drags them for a first down

first and 10, Starks up the middle for 4 – hole closes quickly

Second and 6, Rodgers rolls right, passes to Nelson along left sideline, but he drops an easy pass

Third and 6 from Lions 46, flag on Packers 

Third and 10, middle screen to Green incomplete

Drop by Nelson and penalty kill drive

Fourth down punt by Masthay – downed by Jarrett Bush at the 1 yard line

Lions second possession

First and 10 from the 1, LeShoure rushes for 2; Morgan Burnett makes a great tackle

Second and 8, pass over the middle tightly covered by Davon House who makes a great play reaching in and knocking the ball out.

Third and 8, from the Lions 4; Pass over the middle to Sheffler falls incomplete. Stafford misses him

Fourth down punt – Fair catch by Cobb at the Lions 48. Packers rush punter hard and players cross right in front of him, there is some contact, but not enough to draw a flag.

James Starks. Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Packers second posseession

First and 10, Cobb for 4,

Second and 6, Starks makes hard cut and gains 5

Third and 1 from 39, Starks hit in backfield, but uses stiffarm to bounce  to the outside and pick up 2 for the first down

First and 10, Rodgers slides to left and passes long to Cobb. However, flag negates pickup; Sitton called for holding

First and 20 from the Lions 48, Rodgers quick pass in flat to Cobb who takes it up the right sideline for 10

Second and 10 pass negated by Evan Dietrich-Smith called for holding

Second and 21 from Lions 48, Rodgers is gun, passes over the middle to Cobb for 4

Third and 16, Rodgers in gun, all kinds of time; pass to James Jones for 13

Brings up fourth down go for it – statement to K Mason Crosby?

Fourth and 4, Rodgers passes over the middle to Cobb, but misses the target

Packers give the ball over on downs

Penalties kill drive – second in a row

Calvin Johnson makes a 53-yard reception in the first quarter of today’s game. Raj Mehta-US PRESSWIRE

Lions third possession

Pass over the middle dropped by Johnson

Second and 10, Screen to LeShoure snufed out and blown up by A.J. Hawk – loss of 2

Third and 12, Stafford rolls right and throws long to Johnson for 53 yards

First and 10 from 18, Kevin Smith for 3; illegal hands to the face by Erik Walden

Lions at Packers 10, second and goal, Stafford six yard pass to Scheffler.

Third and goal, ball at 3, Stafford under center, Ryan Pickett blows up middle and forces Stafford to his right and into Morgan Burnett who makes the sack

Jason Hanson for 30 yard FG is GOOD

53-yard pass to Calvin Johnson is the big play on the drive

Lions 3 Packers 0

Lions

Packers

Lions kickoff – Cobb for 10 yard return

Packers tight end Jermichael Finley jumps into the end zone for a touchdown. Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Packers fourth possession

First and 10 from Packers 18, pass t Jones drops ball – second of the game (Nelson and Jones)

Second and 10, Rodgers n gun inside handoff to James Starks off left tackle for 4

Third and 6, Rodgers throws a laser of 15 yards to a wide open Jordy Nelson for a first down

First and 10 from the 38, Ridgers under center hands off to Starks for 3

Second and 7 from 41, Rodgers under center walks away from center and calls a timeout; McCarthy is livid about womehting on the field, but not sure why.- maybe something with the play clock

Second and 7, Starks runs left and loses 2 as no blocking takes shape

Third and 7, Rodgers avoids the sack and while falling forward hits Donald Driver for the first down over the middle

First and 10, handoff to Starks over right tackle for 2,

Second and 8 from Lions 47, delayed handoff to Starks nets 5 yards

End of first quarter

Packers Third and 4, pass to Jordy Nelson who on right sideline. He breaks two tackles and runs out to the 23

First and 10, Cobb

TD pass to Jermichael Finley wide open over the middle for the touchdown

Extra point by Crosby

13:56 Drive: 11 plays, 81 yards in 5:28

Big play of the drive was the first down pass to Donald Driver that kept the drive going

Packers 7 Lions 3

Lions running back Mikel Leshoure (25) reaches for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers. Raj Mehta-US PRESSWIRE

Packers Crosby kidoff – Logan return to the 26

Lions fourth possession

First and 10 from 26, handoff to Mikel Leshoure

Pass to Hiller for 17 yards; Hayward rushes, but Stafford eludes him

First and 10, Leshoure for 2

Second and 8, Erik Walden tracks down Stafford for a sack and minus 1 yard

Third and 9, Stafford in gun, pass to left sideline to Johnson for 21

First and 10, Ball at Packers 32, handoff to Bell for 4

Second and six; juggling catch for 3 by Pettigrew

Third and 3, pass to Johnson to the 11 for first down, Tramon Williams on the coverage

First and 10 from the 11, Stafford inside handoff up the middle for 10 and a first down

First and goal, Lesoure for the TD 

Big plays of the drive was the 21-yard reception by Johnson and the first down pass to Johnson down to the 11

Drive: 10 plays, 74 yards in 5:50

Lions 10 Packers 7

Packers punter Tim Masthay. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Lions Kickoff

Packers fifth possession

First and 10 from the 20, Rodgers in gun, passes to Starks on left side for 6 – dumpoff pass

Second and 4, pitch to Starks for 5 – nice blocking and nice running on Starks’ part

Fist and 10, delayed handoff to Starks for 8 – penalty on Detroit offsides accepted

Instead of second and 2, Packers opt for first and 5

First and 5, Rodgers under center hands off to Starks who hits head on in the hole and drags him for four

Second and 1, Starks hit by Durant for a loss of 2

Third and 3, from 37, Rodgers rushed out of the pocket right, passes incomplete to Cobb

Fourth down punt by Masthay, muffed by Logan, but he recovers it

Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) runs the ball after making an interception against the Detroit Lions. Raj Mehta-US PRESSWIRE

Lions fifth possession

First and 10 from the 28, Stafford passes behind Scheffler and it falls incomplete

Second and 10, end around to Mike Thomas for 6, Hayward with the impressive stick to upend Thomas

Third and 4, offside by Packers, Mike Neal – gives up first down

First and 10, Leshoure bounces off to the left for first down; Calvin Johnson holds, but doesn’t get called for it

First and 10 from Packers 46, Leshoure for 2

Second and 8, Stafford hit as he throws incomplete – Stafford comes up limping

Third and 8, Stafford throws incomplete but Brad Jones flagged for slap to the head

Lions first and 10 from Packers 29, Pass INTERCEPTED BY CASEY HAYWARD  - Hayward’s fifth of the year – Packers have 11 INT

Packers sixth possession

First and 10 from own 47, Starks for six off left side

Two minute warning 

Packers second and 2, Rodgers intercepted over the middle

Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) gets the ball hit out of his hands by Green Bay Packers linebacker Dezman Moses in the second quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Lions sixth possession

First and 10 from own 33, pass of 4 to Pettigrew – Hawk right on the tackle

Second and 6, Stafford runs for 6

First and 10 from Lions 43, Stafford throws incomplete

Second and 10, Stafford again throws to a spot, but no receiver within 10 yards

Third and 10, Stafford evades pressure , but Dezman Moses knocks the ball from Stafford

Packers recover

Nov 19, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers kicker Mason Crosby first field goal attempt was no good against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Packers possession 

First and 10, Pass to Cobb over the middle for 7

Second and 3, Rodgers pass to Cobb for 10 and a first down

Timeout GB – second

Packers First and 10 from 24, Rodgers in gun, SACK and loss of 8 by Nick Fairly

Second and 18 – Packers let clock run down to 2 seconds

50 yard FG Attempt by Mason Crosby – CROSBY MISSES RIGHT, BUT TIMEOUT CALLED AND CROSBY GETS SECOND CHANCE

SECOND ATTEMPT BY CROSBY –  MISSED LEFT THIS TIME – CROSBY MISSES 6 OF LAST 11 ATTEMPTS

END OF FIRST HALF

LIONS 10 PACKERS 7

First half statistics presented by si.com

1st Quarter

Jason Hanson 30 yard field goal, 4:24 Drive: 8 plays, 57 yards in 3:08
Detroit 3-0

2nd Quarter

Jermichael Finley 20 yard TD pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby extra point is GOOD), 13:56 Drive: 11 plays, 81 yards in 5:28
Green Bay 7-3

Mikel Leshoure 1 yard TD run (Jason Hanson extra point is GOOD), 8:06 Drive: 10 plays, 74 yards in 5:50
Detroit 10-7

Packers

Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley (98) sacks Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) causing a fumble in the third quarter at Ford Field.Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Start of second half

Lions kickoff to Packers – Cobb to the 20, but penalty on Packers, illegal block in the back

First and 10 from Packers 5, Starks runs hard and hits people, but only picks up 2

Second and 8, Pass to Cobb who gets five yards on run for first down

First and 10, Rodgers under center, handoff to Starks for 1

Second and 9, pocket collapses and nowhere for Rodgers to go and he is sacked

Third and 13, Rodgers and sacked, fumbles, but Jeff Saturday jumps on it

Fourth down punt by Masthay from goal line to the 33

Packers free safety M.D. Jennings (43) intercepts a pass in the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Lions first possession of the second half

First and 10 from the 33

First and 10 Leshoure picks his way for seven yards

Second and 3, Brad Jones breaks through and tackles Leshoure for no gain

Third and 3, Stafford beats strong blitz with 16 yard pass to Scheffler.

First and 10 at Packrs 44, Stafford pass to Johnson down right sideline overthrown

Second and 10, inside handoff to Leshoure for 5

Third and 5, Stafford in gun, penalty flags fly for false start on Lions

Third and 10 from Packers 44, offsetting penalties – offside on Walden and offensive pass interference on Titus Young

Third and 10, Pass to Johnson tipped and M.D. Jennings intercepts; Stafford called for low block on return Jennings takes it to the house 71 yards for a TOUCHDOWN PACKERS!

Seven returns for touchdowns against the Lions this year

Packers 14 Lions 10

Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) dunks the football over the uprights after scoring a touchdown in the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field. Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Packers kick off to Logan who returns it to the 17

Lions Second Possession

First and 10, Leshoure for five

Second and 5, Stafford in gun, pass overthows everyone, but flag on Brad Jones grabbing facemask

eight Packers penalties at this point

First and 10, Pass to Boyles for 8

Second and 2, pass to Johnson falls incomplete

Third and 2, Stafford in gun, pass over the middle to Pettigrew for 12 and a first down

First and 10 at Packers 44, Leshoure hesitates, hits the hole and picks up five

Second and 5, Leshoure bounces it outside for a first down

First and 10at Packers 26, pass over the middle for Bell for 5, AJ Hawk on the stop

Second and 5, Stafford in gun, Stafford scrambles for a first down

First and 10 at Packers 15, Leshoure is hit in the backfield by Dezman Moses for a loss – but Detroit called for holding on Moses

First and 20, Stafford under center, has all kinds of time, scrambles right and throws the ball away at the end

Second and 20, Stafford in gun, passes over the middle to Johnson for TD – went right through Morgan Burnett’s hands

Calvin Johnson 25 yard TD pass from Matthew Stafford (Jason Hanson extra point is GOOD), 3:01 Drive: 10 plays, 83 yards in 5:30

Lions 17 Packers 14

James Jones.
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Lions kickoff – Cobb muffs a bounding kickoff , picks it up, then runs it out of the end zone to the 10 and fumbles – Packers recover

Packers second possession

First and 10 from their own 9 yard line, Starks runs hard off right tackle and picks up 7

Second and 3, Starks for 1

Third and 2, Rodgers under center, pitch to Cobb with blocking to the left and he picks up 15 and a first down

First and 10 from Packers 35, Rodgers under center, play action to Starks and Rodgers throws a laser over the middle to James Jones

First and 10 from Lions 45, Nick Fairly stuffs Kuhn for loss of 1

End of the third quarter

Packers open third quarter with a second and 11, Rodgers in Gun, Rodgers pulls it down and runs for 2

Third and 9, at Lions 44, pass to Cobh low and he’s tackled right away

Fourth and 5, Mason Crosby – Lions call timeout

CROSBY FROM 58 YARDS???? act like going to fake it with Tom Crabtree, but called for illegal motion

Now the Packers punt – Masthay to the 7 and fair catch called

Linebacker Erik Walden.
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Lions third possession

First and 10 from the 8, Stafford hands off to Leshoure for 3

Second and 7, Stafford is sacked by Davon House

Third and 10, Walden with the sack – Sack number 5 on Stafford today

Fourth down punt out of end zone – Fair catch by Cobb at Detroit 44

Packers third possession

First and 10 from the Lions 44,

Rodgers under center, pass to Nelson for 12 and a first down

First and 10 from Lions 32, Rodgers in gun, handoff to Starks for no gain

Second and 10, Rodgers throws toward Jordy Nelson, but flags thrown – Defensive holding automatic first down

First and 10 from Lions 28, Rodgers in gun, flags thrown, but Rodgers misses Cobb on crossing route – Lions lined up in neutral zone

First and 5, from Lions 23, Starks is bottled up and stopped at line of scrimmage

Second and 5, Rodgers in gun, handoff to Starks for 3

Third and 2, Rodgers in gun, pass to Jones incomplete

CROSBY FROM 38 YARD LINE – NO GOOD

LIONS 17 PACKERS 14

Nov 19, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions kicker Jason Hanson (4) kicks a field goal in the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

Lions possession from own 28

First and 10, Leshoure for 4

Second and 6, Leshoure for 4

Third and 2, pass to Broyles and runs for 15 after the catch

First and 10 from Packers 36, Leshoure for 1

Second and 9, pass to a wide ope Titus Young down to the Packers 10

First and goal, Leshoure for 2

Second and goal, Brad Jones stuffs Leshoure for loss of 2

Timeout Packers – first

Third and goal from nine, pass incomplete

FG by Jason Hanson – 27 yards

Nov 19, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) celebrates after catching a pass for a touchdown as Detroit Lions cornerback Jacob Lacey (21) reacts during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

4:25 remaining in game

Lions kickoff - Cobb returns it to the 17

Packers possession

First and 10, draw to Starks for 11

First and 10, Rodgers throws incomplete to Nelson

Second and 10Rodgers in gun, pass to Finley, he breaks a couple of tackles and takes it for a gain of 4

Ball at Lions 28, pass to Finley for 6

Second and 4, Starks runs right for 3

Third and 1, pass to Cobb TD in right side of end zone

Crosby extra point

Randall Cobb 22 yard TD pass from Aaron Rodgers, 1:55 Drive: 6 plays, 82 yards in 2:30

Packers 21 Lions 20

Packers

Packers safety Jerron McMillian.
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Packers kickoff – Logan returns to Lions 25

Lions possession

First and 10, Stafford pass thrown into the dirt incomplete

Second and 10 – penalty for false start on Lions

Second and 15, pass to Titus Young hits ground incomplete

Third and 15, Hayward knocks it away

Fourth and 15, from gun, long pass to Scheffler knocked down by rookie Jerron McMilian

1:21 remaining

Packers take over on possession

First and 10, handoff to Starks for no gain

Lions timeout – second

1:13 remaining – Second and 10

Seond and 10, handoff to Starks

Lions Final timeout

Third and 10, pitch to Starks who loses 2

Mason Crosby has come under intense scrutiny, but his head coach is confident in his abilities. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

MASON CROSBY FG ATTEMPT WITH 24 SECONDS LEFT – … AND THE KICK IS GOOD

Crosby kicks off – squibber returned by Scheffler

Lions ball with 15 seconds remaining

Pass toward Scheffler nearly picked off by Davon House

Second and 10 with 9 seconds remaining, Stafford in gun, pass toward Pettigrew incomplete with McMillian on the coverage

Last play of the game – pass complete to Johnson who tries to lateral the ball, but it’s picked off by Jaron McMillian

Final statistics below courtesy of si.com

Packers

Packers

Lions

• Scoring Summary

1st Quarter

Jason Hanson 30 yard field goal, 4:24 Drive: 8 plays, 57 yards in 3:08
Detroit 3-0

2nd Quarter

Jermichael Finley 20 yard TD pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby extra point is GOOD), 13:56 Drive: 11 plays, 81 yards in 5:28
Green Bay 7-3

Mikel Leshoure 1 yard TD run (Jason Hanson extra point is GOOD), 8:06 Drive: 10 plays, 74 yards in 5:50
Detroit 10-7

3rd Quarter

M.D. Jennings 72 yard interception return for TD (Mason Crosby extra point is GOOD), 8:31 Drive: 0 play, 0 yard in 0:00
Green Bay 14-10

Calvin Johnson 25 yard TD pass from Matthew Stafford (Jason Hanson extra point is GOOD), 3:01 Drive: 10 plays, 83 yards in 5:30
Detroit 17-14

4th Quarter

Jason Hanson 27 yard field goal, 4:25 Drive: 9 plays, 63 yards in 4:12
Detroit 20-14

Randall Cobb 22 yard TD pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby extra point is GOOD), 1:55 Drive: 6 plays, 82 yards in 2:30
Green Bay 21-20

Mason Crosby 39 yard field goal, 0:19 Drive: 4 plays, -1 yard in 1:00
Green Bay 24-20

Read More: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/gameflash/2012/11/18/5041/index.html#ixzz2Cc22eC4Z

Matthew Stafford has certainly produced more in his bank account than he has on the field. Bruce Kluckhohn-US PRESSWIRE

Each week as the editor of The Lakeland Times, I post some thoughts that fall into a column called “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

Back in 2009 I was abhorred by the amount of money given to then-rookie Matthew Stafford. I guess I feel the same way today.

Here’s what I had to say:

That’s a lot of money
Matthew Stafford gets $42 million guaranteed. Yes folks, that FORTY-TWO MILLION American dollars for the National Football League’s number one pick … guaranteed … without having taken a single snap. That makes him one of the richest players in the entire league. Can you imagine being a teammate of his – someone who has played six or seven years - and making one-quarter of the money? That really lays the groundwork for camaraderie, doesn’t it? It seems things are a bit out of whack.

Jan 1, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (87) catches a pass between Green Bay Packers cornerback Tramon Williams (38) and cornerback Jarrett Bush (24) during the game at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Lions 45-41. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

So, here we go again … climbing out on the proverbial limb and publicly stating our predictions for today’s Packers games.

Well, maybe it’s not too far we have to climb for this particular game because we all pretty much agree – well, with the exception of one.

So, without further adieu, here’s how all the staffers see today’s Packers vs. Lions NFC North Division matchup:

Jon Schweitzer

Jon Schweitzer

Despite the loss of Clay Matthews, I expect the Packers to keep a very frustrated Lions team in check by weathering an initial emotional push from them to start the game.

If the Defense can do that, force some punts, I like Aaron Rodgers and the rest of the Packers offense, which I think is made to excel on turf.  Getting Jordy Nelson back will help free up spots in the Lions’ already-depleted secondary for Randall Cobb and James Jones to do damage.

However, it may take a couple of series to get the group back in rhythm.  If John Kuhn is back from injury, it will be very interesting to see which running back they use in each situation and if the Alex Green/McCarthy love fest is still going strong.

Packers 31 Lions 17

Jerry Bulone

Jason Hirschhorn

Jason Hirschhorn

The stat you’ve probably heard a lot this week is 5-1, Mike McCarthy’s record in games following the bye week. That sounds mightily impressive, but factor in that the combined record of those teams is 42-96 and suddenly it seems less so.

However, as the old cliché goes, you play who’s on your schedule, and the schedule makers have been kind to the McCarthy Packers. In addition to the mediocre post bye week opponents, Green Bay has been afforded five byes week 7 or later since the start of McCarthy’s tenure in 2006. With the 4-6 Detroit Lions slated as the Packers’ post-bye week opponent this season, that trend has fortunately continued.

After dropping four of its first six games, Detroit has somewhat righted the ship, scoring an average of 27.6 points over their last three games. To compound the issue, Green Bay has lost five starters over their own previous three games.

Detroit badly needs this game to stay relevant in the playoff hunt, and there are more than a few Lions who are not above taking cheap shots to help their cause.

The good news for the Packers is the Lions are absolutely decimated in the secondary.

Former Packer Pat Lee was signed this week to help cover for Louis Delmas, Amari Spievey, and Chris Houston, all of whom are questionable headed into Sunday. The Packers should get Jordy Nelson back this week, and all indications are he’s 100 percent this time. Combined with the fact Aaron Rodgers has been ripping through defenses since the Houston game, the prognosis isn’t looking very good for Detroit.

The Packers should win this one, but in order for this to be a complete victory Green Bay needs to come out of this one with all its important pieces intact.

Packers 31 – Lions 21

Dan Turczynski

Dan Turczynski

The Packers are 5-1 after the bye week under head coach Mike McCarthy, which bodes well for a Packers’ victory. The offense gets a healthy Jordy Nelson back to team up with emerging star Randall Cobb and James Jones.

The Packers should be able to take advantage of an improved Detroit secondary through the air; look for quarterback Aaron Rodgers to have a big day. The Packers must get a pass rush without Clay Matthews; if not, Matthew Stafford will be able to pick apart the Packers’ secondary.

Bold prediction: Jermichael Finley rejoins the team, mentally, and has his best game of the season. Packers roll in Detroit.

Packers 34, Lions 21

Thomas Marquardt

Thomas Marquardt

I thought this would be a no-brainer coming off of the bye, but the Lions have a team built to make late game comebacks.

Division games on the road are always tough and if the Packers let them hang around into the middle of the fourth quarter could spell trouble.  I expect a heavy dose of Starks and Green  in the first half and the bye week rest to make a difference.

Having Jordy Nelson back in the lineup will lead to at least one big play.

Packers 27 – Lions 20

Tim Thomas

The Packers will have a tough matchup Sunday against a Detroit team that needs to start turning their season around to get into playoff contention as this will be a tough matchup for the Packers on the road, especially since they won’t have Clay Matthews and Greg Jennings.

The Packers will have to do whatever they can to contain Detroit star Calvin Johnson as containing him could shut down the Detroit offense as the Packers should probably double team him with Tramon Williams and a safety.

The Packers offensive line will face a big challenge from the Detroit defensive line as Ndamukong Suh in company will look to limit how much time Aaron Rodgers has to throw.

However, the Lions’ secondary is not too strong as Randall Cobb’s speed could be used to make a big difference while Jordy Nelson should be good to go for the Packers.

The Packers have tons of injuries as they get ready to make their playoff push but remember the last time the Packers had all these injuries, they won the Super Bowl. The Lions will be a good challenge but the Packers will walk out of Detroit with a win.

Green Bay 31, Detroit 23

Ray Rivard

Ray Rivard

This is one of those games – division opponent, on the road, so much uncertainty because of injuries.

But for the Green Bay Packers, the Detroit Lions is a team that should be dispatched with a solid offensive showing, defense that contains the Lions’ passing attack, and special teams that do everything right. And you know what? This Packers team, if they are going to be considered one of the favorites to make it into the Playoffs, must win these division games. The next seven weeks will be crucial in not only determining the winner of the NFC North, but which teams will make it into the tournament.

The Lions pose a significant threat because of their offensive weapons. The Stafford-to-Pettigrew and Stafford-to-Johnson connections have always caused the Packers headaches. To win, the Packers will have to minimize the damage and contain the Lions through the air. Without the passing pressure put on by Clay Matthews, it will be interesting to see if the Packers injury-depleted unit can do just that.

It all starts up front with the defensive line and the Packers have to stop the run first and then take advantage of the blitz packages that Dom Capers dials up to slow the Lions. Most importantly, the defense has got to get off the field on third down to provide more facetime for the Packers’ offense.

When the Packers have the ball, I think we’ll probably see a heavy dose of James Starks and Alex Green. My hope is that, in conjunction with Randall Cobb, Head Coach Mike McCarthy comes up with a rotation that plays to each of these players’ strengths. I can see the Packers running Starks between the tackles more and trying to get Green into the open field. Being even more creative with Cobb will also open things up for Rodgers and his weapons outside.

In the end, I feel that this McCarthy-coached team begins its run to the playoffs against the Lions. I feel the Lions will try to take advantage of the crowd energy at the beginning, but I feel the Packers are a much better team. Using all four quarters, I feel the Packers will win the battle along the line of scrimmage and through the air.

Packers 31 Lions 19

Bill Walton and his family

Bill Walton

Several factors point to a Packers victory Sunday in Detroit.

Record in games after the bye (5-1) under McCarthy. Road dome winning percentage (.708) nearly as good as their home winning percentage (.714) under McCarthy. The need to set the tone for the stretch drive to the playoffs. Rodgers owning the NFL’s highest QB rating (117.0) all-tme indoors.

The Packers receivers have been talking about how much they like playing in domes for a while. Now it’s time to tear up the fast Ford Field track against a banged-up Lions secondary. The Packers injuries have been well documented. Quality depth won’t make us forget about Matthews, Woodson, Jennings, and the rest – but it should minimize the impact of their absence.

We think this game will come down to the quarterbacks and which one has better protection, which will open up the rest of their offensive game plans. Expect this one to be won in the trenches. In a dome. After a bye. By the Packers.

Wife and Facebook junkie Deneen sees this one ending up 35-21 Packers. Son and Black Ops II junkie John is going with 24-14 Packers. I see the Packers coming away with a 31-17 win.

Snyder, who has been a Lions fan for years – yes, there are those out there who still admit to that – knows that this game is one that is crucial for both teams as they head toward the final quarter of the NFL season. Most important for both teams is the backloaded schedules that pit divisional opponents against one another. The NFL wants games in December to be just as important as those in September. By scheduling divisional opponents late in the season, this most likely will be an effective way to continue to attract fans.

So, with that backdrop, read on below or simply click here to visit the sidelionreport.com website – BTW, it’s one of the most impressive sites on fansided.com’s NFL network. Check it out.

Home » 2012 Season » Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions Preview with Lombardi Ave

Thanks to the way the NFL crafted the 2012 schedule, the Detroit Lions have completed their seasons series with the Minnesota Vikings before seeing the Green Bay Packers for the first time. The division schedule is even more backloaded for the Green Bay Packers who have yet to face the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions and have played just one game against the Chicago Bears.

The Lions and Packers may be familiar foes but the odd schedule creates a unique first meeting this season. I got together with Ray Rivard, editor at Lombardi Ave, to get a Packers-minded perspective ahead of this week’s game.

1. How big of a deal are the Packers’ injuries for this week’s game against the Lions?

Lombardiave.com editor Ray Rivard.
Douglas Etten photograph

Ray Rivard: Injuries play a big role for all teams, the Packers included. However, with so many guys out, it’s going to be a bid deal for the remainder of the season for the Packers. The biggest loss this week will be Clay Matthews. The Packers will be playing rookie Dezman Moses in his place. While Moses has been a pleasant surprise as an undrafted free agent, this will be his best test. Packers fans hope it’s his coming out party. “Next man up” has been the Packers mantra again this year and it seems the coaching staff schemes well enough to bring out the best in the replacements. Our only hope is that it continues.

2. So now Tramon Williams thinks he’s Optimus Prime? Convince me that talking about shutting down Calvin Johnson isn’t just foolish.

RR: No question it’s a foolish move. However, if Williams can be a part of slowing Johnson down and keeping him out of the end zone, we may just have to start calling him Optimus Prime!

3. Who needs to have a better game on Sunday: Packers offense or Packers defense?

Aaron Rodgers.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

RR: We all know that the Packers offense has been pretty consistent overall. I think the onus falls on the defense. The key will be getting off the field on third down and if the Lions do put some drives together, that the defense holds them to field goals instead of touchdowns. If the defense can keep the Lions out of the end zone, the offense will do enough to outscore the Lions. You can always count on Aaron Rodgers for at least a couple of touchdown passes.

4. What area do the Lions need to exploit to give themselves the best chance of pulling out a win?

RR: If the Lions can somehow get a couple of turnovers and win the field position battle with the Packers, they could make a game out of it. However, if the field tilts in the Packers favor, you might as well stick a fork in the Lions. When the Packers play on a short field, they tend to score touchdowns. The Packers will also probably try to run the ball out of the blocks and if the Lions can shut that part of the game down, then they will have a much better shot at putting pressure on Aaron Rodgers – and we all know what happens when that occurs.

5. Are Packers fans concerned with trying to catch the Bears in the NFC North or is it just about getting into the playoffs?

RR: Being down by just a game with seven to play, catching the Bears could occur as early as this weekend. I don’t think that’s a huge concern. The biggest thing is simply making it into the Playoffs at this point. Even if they don’t win the division, getting into the tournament is crucial. What might be really fun is that if that occurs, they may end up playing the Bears again at some point.

Jordy Nelson.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

6. What is your take on the game and what is your prediction?

RR: I think the Packers finally get a semblance of a running game going early in this one, opening up many opportunities for Aaron Rodgers and his receiving crew. The Lions will probably rack up some yards and stats, but I think the defense makes just enough big plays to control the Lions’ offense. I also feel the Packers special teams (with the exception of place kicking) is much better than that put on the field by the Lions. I think that will play a huge role in the outcome of this game. In the end, the Packers will be too much for the Lions. Packers 31, Lions 19

Stay up to date with SideLion Report on facebook, and twitter. Follow @FanSidedNFL on twitter for great content from around the NFL.

Sept 13, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Tramon Williams (38) celebrates with cornerback Sam Shields (37) and defensive tackle Jerel Worthy (99) after intercepting a pass during the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-US PRESSWIRE

The 6-3* Packers take on the 4-5 Lions Sunday in Detroit. Like all NFC North Divisional games, records don’t mean much when these two teams step between the white lines.

Detroit is a dangerous football team within the Division. They have talent and a fiery coach. When this one kicks off the Packers had better not make the mistake of letting up.

The Packers are an equally dangerous football team. Detroit will need their A+ game in order to beat a McCarthy-coached team coming off a bye. This will also be a dome game. The Packers have been one of the most successful outdoor teams in road dome games in the league under McCarthy. The same goes for teams playing after the bye – the Packers are 5-1 post-bye weeks. It will be a surprise if the Packers are not ready to play and play well on Sunday.

Rather than going into the injury situation yet again this week, I’ll leave you with this simple summation: The Packers will again not have several starters available for this game. They will have quality backups for their inured players on the field and those backups will need to play quality snaps and make quality plays. They’ll be closely scrutinized. The team has endured missed games, and missed seasons, by starters before. They’ll simply need to do it again.

Here are some of the things I’ll be watching during the game:

November 24, 2011; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) looks over offensive line before a play against the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving at Ford Field. The Packers won 27-15. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-US PRESSWIRE

• The Packers offensive line has been shuffled to compensate for the loss of RT Bryan Bulaga. LG T.J. Lang has moved to RT, and G/C Evan Dietrich-Smith will start at LG. The memorable “Suh Stomp” last season was directed at Dietrich-Smith, who would just as soon go out and have a solid game against Suh and his fellow linemen and forget about the whole thing. I’m expecting the O line to be challenged but if they can run the ball with some success, especially early in the game, good things can be expected to happen. Run success or not, they’ll have to protect QB Aaron Rodgers effectively.

• WR Jordy Nelson returns to the lineup this week and though WR Greg Jennings is still out, when the Packers line up with Nelson, Jones, Cobb, Finley, and Crabtree or Driver on the field there won’t be better top-to-bottom receiving corps on any NFL field this Sunday.

I’ll be watching for the receivers to do a better job of catching the ball and not dropping it from here on out too. TE Finley in particular is due for an improved performance. This would be a great time for it.

• The Packers “found” their run game against the Cardinals. Even though chunks of their 176 yard total were contributed by QB Aaron Rodgers and WR Randall Cobb, both James Starks and Alex Green had strong performances against Arizona.

Starks is another player who seems to be primed for a top-level performance. The Lions do not have a strong run defense. Watch for it all to add up to success on the ground in Detroit. And it’s time to practice your “Kuhn” calls everyone- he’s back!

We’re hoping Tramon Williams comes down with at least one pick Sunday. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• On defense the Packers will definitely be challenged by Detroit. The improved run defense will be tested by the Lions but it’s no secret Detroit moves the ball primarily through the air. Lions WR Calvin Johnson owns the best individual receiving game the Packers have ever allowed. I don’t expect him to have that kind of success this Sunday.

When QB Matt Stafford puts the ball in the air watch for the young ball hawks in the Packers secondary to break on the ball and when they get their hands on it to do a better job of catching it.

The Packers linebackers, as seemingly usual, have been comprised of a different group every week this season. Luckily every one of them is good to much better than good, and that kind of depth is coveted by every team in the NFL.

Yes, Clay Matthews’ absence will be obvious. Hopefully it won’t be exploitable. Eminently watchable in this game will be LBs Dezman Moses, Frank Zombo, Vic So’oto, and Erik Walden. And their coach Kevin Greene.

• On the D line the Packers get DE Jerel Worthy back. Having played at Michigan State, Worthy looks forward to performing in front of his home state again – this time with the Packers. A consistently high-effort game from Worthy, coupled with similar performances from his D line compadres, will ease the pressure on the rest of the Packers D.

Fearsome Predictions:

Packers running back James Jones is poised for a breakout game. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• Expect the Packers to again mix the run and the pass close to 50/50 in this game. It works when the run game is going. And it looks awesome when it works.

• The Packers will run the ball for at least 150 yards, with Starks finally hitting the century mark in rush yards in the game.

• When Stafford puts the ball in the air this Sunday, the Packers secondary will come down with at least two interceptions. One by Hayward and one by Williams. And look for a pick-six. They’re due!

• Even though Stafford is a fine QB, he’s not finer than Rodgers and he knows it. Rodgers will out-yard and out-passer rating him this week.

• The first time there is any kind of extended tussle between Lions DT Suh and Packers LG Dietrich-Smith, Fox will treat us to the slow-motion replay of the “Suh Stomp” from last season. From that point on there will be isolated coverage of Suh against the entire Packers O line.

• If Suh stomps RT T.J. Lang, or for that matter anyone else, things will spin out of control frighteningly quick. And Suh’s reputation as a dirty player, both among his fellow players and the general public, will be reinforced commensurately.

• Jerel Worthy will notch one sack. Erik Walden will get home once. Dezman Moses will also get to Stafford at least once – just as long as he doesn’t draw another PF penalty while he does it. And one of the cornerbacks or safeties will get to Stafford, too.

Mike McCarthy-coached Packers teams are 5-1 coming out of the bye. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• This is an indoor game following a bye under McCarthy. The Packers will play their most consistently excellent game of the season this week as the real run to the playoffs begins.

We’ll be attending the regular Packers watch party at Tailgators on FM1488 in Magnolia this week. We’re Packers fans. We won’t bite but we’ll probably yell some. Golly…it’s just too bad there won’t be any Bears fans there – unless they come out just to root against the Packers. They do that you know. Come on out and help us out-root the Texans fans and the Bears fans!

Go Pack GO!

Jan 1, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk (50) breaks up the pass intended for Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (87) during the game at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Lions 45-41. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

This week, we had the privilege to spend time with Zac Snyder, the editor at Fansided.com’s Detroit Lions site, Sidelionreport.com.

We spent some time asking and he took the time to answer our questions about this weekend’s NFC North Division matchup between the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions.

Our Q&A is below. Enjoy …

Nov 11, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) reacts after a fumble during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Lions 34-24. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-US PRESSWIRE

Q. Calvin Johnson isn’t having a poor year by NFL standards, but he hasn’t reached the bar he has set for himself, especially when it comes to getting in the end zone. What do the Lions need to do to get him the ball for touchdowns?

A. Calvin Johnson has no stated goal for number of touchdowns in a season. He did say that he would like to have 100 receiving yards in every game he plays as that is the level he feels he needs to say he helped the team. He has hit the 100-yard mark in five of nine games this season but does have a per game average of 108.2, a hair over three yards more than he averaged last season. He’s also catching 6.7 passes per game as opposed to 6.0 per game a year ago. Calvin isn’t getting into the end zone himself but he’s often a big reason why the Lions are in position to score a touchdown, even if it ultimately goes to someone else. Not getting tackled inside the five yard line is one thing that could change that would result in more touchdowns for Calvin.

Q. With the Lions running game in the crapper, the Lions are very much like the Packers in that they have to rely on moving the ball through the air. The Packers have had success in winning games that way, the Lions not so much … what’s the difference?

A. The Lions have made a bigger effort to run the ball this year but that has sometimes been met with resistance from fans. That being said, the Lions have a 4.1 yards per carry average to rank in the middle of the NFL pack so it isn’t like they are totally inept – they just aren’t always successful and the opportunities they take to run the ball are often predictable. The good news is that the Lions have ten rushing touchdowns after totally only nine a year ago. The difference between the Lions and Packers in their passing attacks is the level of consistency. The Lions have been terribly slow starters and often can’t find their way in the passing game until it seemingly opens up in the second half as they try to pull their way out of a hole.

Nov 11, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (90) looks on prior to the game against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-US PRESSWIRE

Q. We all remember “the stomp” in last year’s Thanksgiving Day game won by the Packers. Do you think that incident will play any kind of motivational role in Sunday’s game?

A. The biggest role the incident will play is for the FOX Network. They will probably beat the dead horse to super-death and show the replay several times between the start of the pregame show to the final whistle of the game. I don’t think the Lions or Suh need any motivation behind simply wanting to beat the Packers.

Q. Aaron Rodgers is on pace again for a possible run at another MVP. Do the Lions have the answer to slowing down Rodgers and what do you think is their best tactic – stop the run first and then get after Mr. Rodgers? Or just pin the defensive linemen’s ears back and let them get the pressure on Rodgers?

A. The Lions look no further than the last time they beat the Packers at Ford Field in 2010. Rodgers averaged just 4.2 yards per attempt, threw an interception and was sacked twice before ultimately being knocked out with a concussion. The Lions have to take advantage of a beat up offensive line to put pressure on Rodgers like they did in 2010 in hopes of forcing some errors.

Nov 4, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Cardinals 31-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Q. The Lions have their backs against the wall and are in desperation mode if they feel they have any chance of making the playoffs. Are the playoffs still being mentioned or are the Lions looking more at being spoilers?

A. Talk linking the Lions and the playoffs is mostly centered around the thought that last week’s loss to the Vikings closed the door. It is technically still possible but we realize it will take running the table or losing just once more. Considering the remaining schedule, that is unlikely and fans know it.

Q. With the disappointing start to the Lions’ season, is Jim Schwartz in an danger of losing his job?

A. I’m starting to hear a few fans question the coaching staff but most of that is directed at the coordinators, particularly Scott Linehan. A more knee-jerk organization might consider it but even then I have a hard time seeing how anyone could call for Jim Schwartz’s head this early.

Q. Give us your take on this game and, of course, give us a final score.

A. The Packers are a solid team while the Lions are a box of chocolates. I have no idea what we’ll get so all I can do is predict what I feel we’re most likely to get: Packers 27, Lions 20.

The Packers are a dangerous team, especially after the bye week.

Under head coach Mike McCarthy the Packers are 5-1 coming off their bye week. This week the Packers (6-3) head to Detroit to take on the Lions (4-5) in a NFC North showdown. First place could potentially be on the line for the Packers; with a win and a Chicago loss at San Francisco Monday Night, both teams would be 7-3, however, the Packers would hold the tiebreaker due to the week 2 win over Chicago at Lambeau.

What do the Packers have to do to ensure a win Sunday? Here are four keys to a Packers’ victory Sunday.

1. Run the Ball

The Packers have struggled to run the ball since the injury to Cedric Benson, and weren’t that effective with him. The strength of the much-improved Detroit defense is their defensive line led by Kyle Vanden Bosch, Cliff Avril and of course “stomp king” Ndamukong Suh.

The Lions have been much better on defense compared to a year ago; in 2012 they are No. 9 in the NFL in total defense, including No. 6 against the pass. The Packers will have to find a balance in the run game, which will in turn open up the pass game for Aaron Rodgers and company. The Lions have a weak run defense, which ranks No. 17 in the NFL giving up more than 115 yards per game. Rodgers and the Packers will be able to throw the ball regardless, however, if they’re successful in the ground game they become nearly impossible to defend.

2. Slow Down Matthew Stafford/Calvin Johnson Connection

It’s no secret that the Stafford and Johnson owned the Packers’ secondary last season. In two games against the Packers last season, Johnson had 15 catches for nearly 300 yards and three touchdowns, that’s not going to cut it for the Packers’ defense. The Packers defense has improved drastically from last year to this year, but they’re still ranked No. 20 against the pass giving up nearly 244 yards a game. If the Packers can’t slow down Megatron, they will have a tough time getting stops on defense.

3. Protect Aaron Rodgers

After a rough start to the year the offensive line has found its game as of late. However, now injuries have forced the Packers to reshuffle their line with the loss of Bryan Bulaga. Evan Dietrich-Smith will get the start at left guard, which will shift TJ Lang out to right tackle. Smith is a very versatile player for the Packers and could even start for a handful of teams in the NFL. So although the loss of Bulaga isn’t ideal, Smith is more than capable of filling the void. Detroit is tied for 16th in sacks this season with just 20. However, the talent is there and they have the ability to make a quarterback’s day difficult. If Rodgers has time to look down field and set his feet, Detroit has little chance of competing with the weapons of the Packers despite being good in pass coverage thus far in the season.

4. Win the Turnover Battle

The Packers have been great at not beating themselves over the years. This season the Packers are plus-four in the turnover margin. On the other hand, there are only three teams in the NFC worse in turnover margin this season than the Lions -4 margin (Eagles -11, Cowboys -9, Panthers -5).

Combined, those four teams’ record is 13-23, it’s no secret that the teams that don’t turn the ball over win football games. The last thing the Packers want to do is give the underdogs life with silly turnovers. Cover up the ball and play fundamental football and the Packers will be in good shape.

Like I previously stated, the Packers are 5-1 after a bye week under McCarthy, and this is the time the Packers usually start playing their best football.

I don’t expect anything less this weekend.

The Lions are a wounded animal running into a buzzsaw in the Green Bay Packers. This is a game of two teams heading in very different directions. The Packers must win this game and start getting hot. I believe they do. The Packers go to Ford Field and put the dagger into the Lions’ season.

Packers 34, Lions 17.

Ryan Grant is upended in a 2009 game against the Indianapolis Colts. Grant, a player without a team, has been working out with the Detroit Lions. Raymond T. Rivard photograph.

In the middle of August, the Green Bay Packers had found what they hoped was the answer to their pathetic running back situation and the name associated with the answer wasn’t Ryan Grant – it was Cedric Benson.

While the jury is still out and will be out for a while on the Benson experiment, there’s one thing for certain – Ryan Gran will never play another down for the Packers.

Today the news out of the Detroit Lions camp that Grant was working out for the team from the Motor City came as no surprise. In fact, it was about that time that we here at Lombardiave.com speculated that Grant would eventually land a contract with the Lions because of that team’s own lack of a reliable stable of runners.

The real question at this point is whether it will be Grant or Steve Slaton getting the call to become a member of the team. A decision will be made at some point soon and should it be Grant, that too, will not be surprising given the Lions’ near signing of Grant back in early spring. Grant had scheduled a visit to Detroit, but cancelled at the last minute, raising speculation that he may have been headed back to the Packers. That didn’t happen either.

Frankly, I would like to see Grant get picked up by an AFC team and certainly not one as good as the Lions from the Packers’ own division, but it is what it is.

In the meantime, below is a look at the post we wrote way back when about Grant going to Detroit.

Ryan Grant: Is he headed to Detroit?

With the news that Jahvid Best, the Detroit Lions’ best bet for starting back, will not be uniform for the start of the 2012 regular season – he’s been relegated to the physically unable to perform list – is there a former Packer in the team’s future?

Throw in the fact that behind Best for the Lions are perpetual underachiever Kevin Smith and bad boy Mikel Leshoure and one might think that Ryan Grant might be a possibility.

You might remember that Grant had a visit to Detroit embedded into his GPS in May, but that trip was cancelled for inexplicable reasons. At the time, many thought it was because they believed he was headed back to Green Bay.

That didn’t happen either.

Instead, the Packers decided to go with two backs returning from serious knee injuries – Alex Green and James Starks, as well as second-year man Brandon Saine and rookie undrafted free agent Marc Tyler.

That was all well and good until the wheels in Green Bay started falling off. Saine went down to injury, Green wasn’t quite 100 percent and Starks hasn’t been all the Packers want. In their first preseason game, Tyler looked pretty good, but his stock dropped when he fumbled on the Packers’ final possession as they were attempting to score as the clock was winding down.

Immediately, the thought turned to Grant – he’s the back who knows the system and would be the perfect fit.

But not for Ted Thompson. Instead he went out and got Cedric Benson for a song, clearly looking to move in an entirely new direct, left Grant without a team.

Enter the Lions who have as bad of a situation in their backfield as the Packers. A logical choice for Detroit would be Grant, but no move has been made in that direction.

Could it still happen? Sure. There’s plenty of time to get him into camp and acclimated to their system. Obviously, that wouldn’t be something Packers fans would like to see.

But I wouldn’t be surprised if it did.