The south end zone at Lambeau Field will be finished this fall and will bring about 8,000 additional fans to Green Bay.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

A few weeks ago, the Green Bay Packers signed arguably two of the best players in all of football – Clay Mathews III and Aaron Rodgers.

Both will be wearing Green and Gold for at least the next five years, they have gone home with incredible individual packages, and helped the team do it by not handcuffing the franchise. With the way the deals with the two players have been structures, it  allows the Packers to keep the team competitive for years to come.

Like Clay Matthews said, the franchise is unique in its approach toward rewarding its players, as well as making sure that the team stays competitive year-after-year.

It doesn’t hurt that the Packers have had the two best back-to-back quarterbacks in their program for more than the past two decades. Between Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers, they have won a lot of games for the Packers.

Remember what Lambeau Field looked like in the late 80 and early 90s?

It also helps that the Packers know how to make money. Last year, the team raked in an all-time franchise high in profits – $43 million – yes, that’s profit. Also within the past two decades the Packers have had clear goals in improving Lambeau Field, one of the oldest, but most revered stadiums in all of sports. With the  improvements the Packers have made to the stadium and the planned improvements in the coming two years, Lambeau Field will continue to offer the best game day experience in all of football.

While other teams continue to lose out to television, the Packers sell out every game and have a waiting list that will never come to an end.

“We want all decisions to be football decisions, not financial decisions,” Murphy told FOXSportsWisconsin.com today. “I think making sure we have the resources available (is important) so they can make decisions based strictly on football reasons. That was really big for the organization.

“This goes back years, we’ve set aside money in the Packers Preservation Fund for any emergency that may come up, but also to make sure that we can continue to be competitive,” Murphy said. “Whether that be investing in our players, or, the big thing we’re doing obviously, is investing in the stadium and investing in the community.”

And while the Packers are unique because they don’t have a single owner like other teams in the league, there are things these other teams can learn from the Packers – and that’s simplicity and functionality.

An artist’s rendering of the inside of the new stadium in Minnesota.

We’ve all seen the pictures of the mega-stadiums being proposed by teams such as those in Atlanta and Minnesota. Following in the footsteps of Jerry Jones and his billion dollar palace in Texas, the Falcons and Vikings are also looking at new monstrosities that will have all the amenities that will please the beautiful people who can afford the $1,000 tickets, but will price the hard-working fans out of the picture. They are the people who are the backbone of any NFL franchise and it’s decisions like we are seeing in Minnesota and Atlanta that are hurting the league, not helping it. It’s no wonder so many don’t want to go to the game, fight the traffic, pay through the nose for tickets and then get it again in the nose when it bleeds because they have to sit in the stratosphere.

While the Packers have made vast improvements to the aluminum-sided bowl that was Lambeau Field of the late 80s and early 90s, they have done it with the fans in mind. The original improvements to the stadium done more than a decade ago gave fans a new experience, but didn’t break the bank – the team also included the fans in the rebuilding by selling stock and raising funds to help with the payments. Another stock sale raised millions to help the Packers fund the addition of more than 8,000 new seats on the south side of the stadium, which will be ready for the start of the 2013 season.

Even more renovations are being planned as the team makes changes this year to the stadium Atrium and moves the team’s Hall of Fame from the basement of the facility – a move that will give the Hall better exposure.

What’s even better with these newest changes is the fact that the Packers are paying the bill in full – there will be no taxpayer funds needed – a win-win that should be something for which other teams should take notice.

When looking to the future, the Packers haven’t forgotten about the fans.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

But the Packers won’t sit still either. Other ideas to develop the area around the stadium to expand the fans’ experience are also being planned.

Here’s more of what Murphy had to say about the future:

“For us, there’s not a profit motive. So, for us, if we can put money back and invest money back into the organization or into the community, that’s the equivalent of what other teams do in terms of paying salaries to owners or executives.”

“You always have to remain vigilant in making sure you’re doing everything you can, so that, number one, the fans have a great experience and that we remain competitive,” Murphy said. “I think the next thing where you’ll start to see some changes is in the whole concept of Titletown; some development around the stadium.

“It’ll help the Packers if we’re able to get more people to come into Green Bay. Those people will go to the Pro Shop and take tours of the stadium, but I think it’s really a way for us to invest in the community.”

What other teams should consider when they plan these new venues for their teams is not the amount of glass and concrete they plan to use, but how these changes will affect the people who make the NFL what it has become. They can’t lose focus on what makes the NFL unique – the game itself. The Packers have been successful and have made money not only because they’ve paid attention to improvements in infrastructure, but because they have made the right decisions on the field.

Packers fans will have a chance to party on draft night. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The opening night of the NFL Draft is one of the biggest days in the league year, save for the Super Bowl, and this year will be no different. If you are anywhere near Green Bay that night, you might want to head on over to Lambeau Field Thursday night – the first night of the draft -and take in some of the fun.

In addition to appearances from Packers President Mark Murphy, General Manager Ted Thompson, Head Coach Mike McCarthy and two Packers players, Food and drink specials, as well as contests and door prizes.

It’s a first-come, first-served event for those making the trip out to Lambeau to watch the Draft unfold.

The NFL draft features a three-day format, with Round 1 beginning at 7 p.m. CT, on Thursday, April 25, followed by Rounds 2-3 beginning at 5:30 p.m. CT Friday, April 26, and Rounds 4-7 beginning at 11:00 a.m. CT on Saturday, April 27.

The Packers PR department announced the full details today through a press release.

The full release is below:

PACKERS’ 2013 NFL DRAFT PARTY TO BE HELD THURSDAY, APRIL 25

 

Free event highlighted by Thursday night party

 

The Green Bay Packers’ official 2013 NFL Draft Party will be held on Thursday, April 25, at Curly’s Pub located in Lambeau Field. The event will feature appearances by Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy, General Manager Ted Thompson, Head Coach Mike McCarthy and two current Packers players.

The Thursday night party is free to the public and space will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with activities beginning at 6 p.m.

The NFL draft features a three-day format, with Round 1 beginning at 7 p.m. CT, on Thursday, April 25, followed by Rounds 2-3 beginning at 5:30 p.m. CT Friday, April 26, and Rounds 4-7 beginning at 11:00 a.m. CT on Saturday, April 27.

In addition to Thursday night’s appearances by players and personnel, Curly’s Pub will provide Draft Party food and drink specials, as well as contests and door prizes throughout the weekend.

The event will feature draft coverage on TV screens throughout Curly’s Pub. On Thursday night, Packers’ broadcast partners, Newsradio 620 WTMJ, WTMJ-TV(Today’s TMJ4) and WGBA-TV (NBC26) will be on hand with Wayne Larrivee, Larry McCarren and others providing coverage and analysis, as well as interviews with Packers staff.

Other features of the draft weekend include:

·         Draft Challenge Contest, an online draft pick contest that calls for participants to pick the Packers’ No. 1 selection in the draft for a chance to win a prize package valued at $500. If participants don’t want to make a selection, they can also be entered for a separate prize package by simply entering their email address and contact information. The challenge, which can be accessed at www.packers.com/fan-zone/contests.html, will begin Wednesday, April 17, at 9 a.m. CT and close at 6:59 p.m. on Thursday, April 25.

·         Free entry for a chance to win door prizes, including autographed Packers items, during all three days of the draft.

Curly’s Pub features Wi-Fi Internet access allowing attendees who bring wireless-enabled laptops and mobile devices to log on to their favorite draft websites and follow the action online.

More information can be found during draft week online at www.packers.com.

Jordy Nelson and Aaron Rodgers humbly celebrate a game-winning touchdown in 2011 against the Tampa Bay Bucs.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Over the past six years I have had the honor and privilege to be allowed to attend four home Green Bay Packers games as an on-field photographer and have taken literally thousands of photographs of the guys in Green and Gold.

Some have been pretty good, some not so good, but in honor of the Academy Awards which are hitting the red carpet as I write this, I have combed through some of the best photographs that I have been fortunate to take. Some photos take themselves, some the photographer has to work for – in other words, you’ve got to anticipate and position oneself for the play you know is coming your way.

I’ve shot at both warm September games and very cold December games at Lambeau Field, but every outing presents its own challenges and rewards. I’ve watched Aaron Rodgers throw easy touchdowns, I’ve seen Charles Woodson intercept and return them for touchdowns, but my most memorable photograph was the shot I took of Donald Driver during his catch and run for a touchdown against the 49ers in 2010. He described it himself as the best play of his career and to think that I caught the entire series from the moment he caught the ball to his dive into the end zone with three defensive back draped all over him gives me goose bumps every time I think of it.

But without boring you any further, here are some of my best pictures over the years:

If you’re headed to Lambeau Field this fall, expect to dig a bit deeper for a ticket.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Green Bay Packers fans, it’s going to cost at least a couple more bucks to attend a game at Lambeau Field starting this fall. The Packers announced today that ticket prices for more than half of the seats in the lower bowl will go up by $2, while other tickets, depending on location, will increase by $5.

And for season ticket holders who were notified this week about the increase – well, you’ve got until March 28 to send in your money.

The new south end zone seats that have become available with the construction of the area will cost $82 (700 Level) and $89 (600 Level), while all other end zone seats (sections 100-108, 131-138, 303-312 and 340-354), which make up nearly half of the total number of seats in the lower bowl will rise $2 to $74.

Tickets from the 20‐yard line to the end zone (sections 109-114, 125-130, 314-320 and 332-338) will increase $5 to $85, and tickets between the 20-yard lines (sections 115-124 and 322-330) will increase $5 to $97.

Packers President Mark Murphy
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Packers’ President Mark Murphy had this to say:

“These increases will keep us at about the league average in terms of ticket price, which is our goal. We want to be fair to the visiting teams in terms of shared revenue (visiting teams receive one-third of all ticket revenue), but also be as affordable as possible for you.

“This year, with the opening of the South End, we also wanted to ensure that the pricing for seats in the bowl was coordinated with the pricing for the new seating. We strive to provide value to all our ticket holders and are proud of the fact our gameday experience is consistently ranked first in the NFL. Ticket revenue also is an important resource in our effort to remain competitive in the NFL.”

According to the press briefing issued today by the Green Bay Packers PR department, comparative prices around NFC North for the 2012 season are as follows: the best sideline seat for the Bears was $175, Vikings $143 and the Lions $119.

Donald Driver breaks down during his retirement speech held in the Atrium at Lambeau Field.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Donald Driver gave an emotional goodbye this morning in the Atrium at Lambeau Field in front of more than 1,000 people and tens of thousands who followed on television and online.

“The Receiver” will be refurbished to represent Donald Driver and the street that runs near the statue will be renamed Donald Driver Way.

Warm words, an awesome highlight video and the announcement that “The Receiver,” the statue that formerly sat in front of the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame and is now situated in front of Titletown Brewery, will be refurbished to represent Driver, were just a few of the high points from the program. In addition to the refurbishing of the statue, the street that runs by the statue will be renamed “Donald Driver Way.”

Gov. Scott Walker declared today, Wednesday, Feb. 6, as Donald Driver Day across the state of Wisconsin, a proclamation that only touches on the love that fans have showed Driver throughout his storied career.

Donald Driver holds his daughter while taking questions during his retirement speech today at Lambeau Field.

During his speech, Driver acknowledged many players, coaches and family members and thanked them profusely, but he concluded his thank you’s and speech by calling out his love for the fans.

“This day is not just for me, it’s for you,” Driver said in addressing the fan base. “I promised you all I would never wear another uniform, so today we make that official … I keep my loyalty to you. to retire in the green and gold.”

Larry McCarren opened the program by addressing the love he felt in the room and concluded the event by stressing even more than ever all that Driver had done for the fans through the years was reciprocated many times over by those who have loved and appreciated him.

Let’s take back the Tundra.

So it has come to pass on this Conference Championship Sunday, that the tide has turned in Green Bay Packers land.  Not only is the team too soft to play smash mouth football, but the fans are too soft too.

Bob McGinn, over at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, wrote an in-depth article detailing how this team has become soft and has lost its edge.  It is a good read and is resonating with many fans based on what I saw in the comments section.

So the two questions that arise would of course be, are the Packers too soft and have the Lambeau faithful lost their heart?

I am not, nor will I ever be such a technical fan or writer that I am willing to break down the plays and statistics to support the grades a team deserves or pinpoint the failures.  I look at the emotional picture, the feelings derived from the game.  So to answer if this team is soft, I look back at what I saw over the past season.  Was there an edge when they played?  Yes and no.

It may seem like a copout but when the starters were in and we did not have the injuries, I felt that there was an aggressiveness to this team.  But as the season unraveled with injuries, and younger players were inserted, I felt that the smash mouth, aggressiveness began to decline.

On the defensive side of the ball, the loss of Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson took away two of the hardest hitters on the team, both physically and emotionally.  There was nobody on the line or in the secondary that could match the missing intensity of these two players.  There was a lack of swag that was apparent in the Super Bowl.  The defense that year had an identity.  This year there was no identity and I would blame that on a lack of continuity and senior leadership.

The rookies and first year players stepped up best they could under the circumstances and played admirably, but it was not enough to create that environment of intimidation and respect that comes with smash mouth football and leads to other teams respecting us.

Offensively, the lack of a line, a running game and the inability to stretch the field prevented Aaron Rodgers and the offense from developing a rhythm or even an identity.  There was some attitude here and there during the course of games, but as hard as it is to admit, it was not there enough to establish that dominance and aggressiveness.  Think back … do you really think that there were any teams that really feared playing us?  I don’t think so.

Jan 5, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; The Green Bay Packers line up for a play during the NFC Wild Card playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

So what does the team need to do?  I would first say let’s see what happens with a team that is truly healthy for the majority of the season.  It is easy to point fingers after the fact, but considering all that this team went through, the end result was more than most teams would have been able to accomplish.  What would have been different if both sides of the ball would have had the time to establish their identity?  It is hard to say but I think as a fan we need to be fair and objective in analyzing what happened.

Then there is the second point he brought up.  The one thing we have control over and that is the environment that we as fans create.  So does Lambeau Field lack the intensity and edge that other stadiums have.  Is it a place where other teams fear playing at?  To be honest I cannot answer this question.  I did not make it to any games this year so I can’t constructively comment on what may or may not have been.

I do know this though, it is not close to being the twelfth man as Seattle has or anything like the Raider Nation.  Granted we are Lambeau and we are much more different in our style and attitude, but can we change?  Do we need to change to bring another dimension to what “OUR” team offers.  I am not saying that we all become rude, obnoxious, screaming jerks.  But do we as fans need to up our game and become a force that needs to intimidate and instill some fear in other teams and provide that home field jolt for our team?  Are the fans in the stands there to be seen for social purposes only or are they there to make a difference?

So I pose this question to all of you who have gone to games this past season, were more people there to be seen or were they there to be heard and make a difference?

A Green Bay Packers fan holds up a sign during the NFC Wild Card playoff game . Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Secondly, if we need to Take Back the Tundra, what do we need to do?  I am going to take this on as my battle cry.  From now until when the fans are able to once again stand in front of this team and make a difference, I am going to reach out to all of you for your thoughts, your inspiration and your energy.  Tell me what we need to do and together we will energize and amplify Lambeau Field, for our battle has not ended, rather it has just begun.

To quote one of the most dynamic minds of our time, Bluto, from Animal House, “What? Over? Did you say “over”? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell No!  And it ain’t over now. ‘Cause when the goin’ gets tough…The tough get goin’! Who’s with me? Let’s go!”

LETS TAKE BACK THE TUNDRA.

Lambeau Field will continue to be improved with a construction project that is expected to revamp the stadium complex’s Atrium.

Continuing to stay competitive both on and off the field is the goal of the Green Bay Packers and with the announcement today of a $140.5 million expansion to the stadium complex’s Atrium, that goal will be achieved.

The rearrangement and expansion of the Atrium will include a number of changes that, according to team President Mark Murphy, will continue to broaden the fan experience.

Another key feature of the 2015 expansion is the fact that the Packers will pay for every dime of the project – not public monies will be used – something that no doubt pleases those who live in the City of Green Bay and Brown County. The Packers will also utilize the National Football League’s G4 program to help with the financing of the project.

The plans were explained today in front of the Green Bay/Brown County Professional Stadium District Board, though the initial announcement of the plan was made during last summer’s shareholders meeting. “It’s been 10 years now with the Atrium, and this is an opportunity to refresh it and also improve the operation of our Atrium businesses,” Murphy said at the presentation.

According to packers.com, the following are some of the highlights one should expect to be completed with the renovation project:

• A new ground level, underneath the current Atrium floor, will be created via excavation to house an expanded Packers Pro Shop with close-up parking and direct access on both the north and east sides.
• A revamped Robert E. Harlan Plaza, including the statues of Vince Lombardi and Curly Lambeau, will remain the main entrance to the Atrium itself, but will be elevated above the new ground floor Pro Shop entrance.
• Curly’s Pub will move from the second floor of the Atrium to the current Pro Shop location, and customers will have direct access on the north side and through a new east-side entrance via escalator.
• The Packers Hall of Fame will move from the Atrium basement to Curly’s current location on the second floor.
• The entrance to the Oneida Nation Gate on the stadium’s east side will be expanded to better connect with the pedestrian walkway that stretches to Oneida St.
• The players’ parking lot will be moved to the south side of the Oneida gate, with access via tunnel underneath the new, extended gate entrance.

  The Pro Shop will nearly double in size to 20,000 square feet, while Curly’s Pub and the Hall of Fame will experience temporary shutdowns during the construction. When and how long those shutdowns will last is yet to be determined.

  Other features of the expansion will be renovation of the Oneida Nation entrance area to the stadium and improvement to player and coaches facilities.

  “We’re very excited about this final phase,” Murphy said. “Like anything else, during construction there are going to be some inconveniences, but when it’s all done, the Atrium will be much improved.

  “With these changes to both the stadium and the Atrium, we will stabilize the financial future of the organization and help ensure that we remain competitive both on and off the field.”

The Packers line up against the Vikings at Sunday’s game. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Sometimes being a member of the media has its perks, especially when it comes to being at the epicenter of Packers Nation.

Aaron Rodgers
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Such was the case Sunday when I spent the afternoon at Lambeau Field photographing the team as they hosted North Division rival Minnesota Vikings. The opportunity not only allows one to walk next to the inactive Donald Driver, Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson, but to watch closeup as Aaron Rodgers hits Randall Cobb over the middle on a final and defining drive that ends with a Mason Crosby field goal to seal the Packers win.

Antonio Freeman enjoyed Sunday’s game. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Some other highlights included watching Ed Hochuli practice his refereeing craft, standing next to former Packers receiver Antonio Freeman and his young son as he tries to get his camera to work and then climbing the steps back up to the media room inside the bowels of Lambeau Field as Troy Aikman and Joe Buck descend from their box talking about the Playoffs.

All this took place on the hallowed grounds once walked by greats like Lombardi, Starr, Adderley, Favre, White and Holmgren.

Do I feel lucky. Absolutely. It’s a privilege that few are accorded and I would be remiss not to thank those within the organization who make it all possible.

And because of that, I have posted a sampling of those photos taken on our Facebook page. Click on over to the site and enjoy.

The thing is I knew all about Bart Starr, Jerry Kramer, Vince Lombardi, and the rest of the 60s teams long before I moved to Neenah, Wisconsin in 1972. I played football on the same field that Fuzzy Thurston’s son played on, met and ran into Packers players all over the area, and in general lived and died with the Packers. Punishment for me was being grounded…from watching the Packers on Sunday.

Things have improved dramatically since Ron Wolf and Mike Holmgren took over and brought the team back to respectability. Now Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy seem to be able to keep the good times going. It’s great to be a Packers fan today. But in the 70s, there was a lot more dying than living with the Packers. Still, I was glad to be a Packers fan-even then. Still am in fact.

Being a Packers fan hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been easier than being a fan of most of the other NFL teams.

Bears fans have to deal with a petulant though sardonic quarterback, defenses that have always been over-hyped (except maybe for 1985), and inconsistent play as a matter of course for generations. Some great ones have played there, but few have won anything there. Their stadium used to be one of the classics, but now all that’s left of the classic is the columns they couldn’t figure out how to demolish with the rest of the original Soldier Field. One Super Bowl win says it all.

Vikings fans have to deal with the sting of being zip for four in Super Bowls, a stadium that should have been condemned long ago with a convertible roof, love boat scandals, horrible trades, and purple as a primary uniform color. No thanks. Oh, and being completely two-faced about Favre. They hated him playing for Green Bay, but they sure did love him in purple. Maybe they’ll add him to their Ring of Honor.

Lions fans are saddled with a “fiery” (read intensely mercurial) head coach, players who like to tell everybody they’re high-character guys but act like thugs both on the field and off it, and though historically they have won four championships none have occurred since 1957. Great ones have played there too, but precious few have won anything there either. Thanksgiving usually means getting to watch some team beat the Lions on the Lions’ home field.

Nov 18, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) signals to quiet the crowd while at the line of scrimmage against the Cleveland Browns at Cowboys Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

Outside the division, let’s examine Cowboys fans. Now living in Texas as I do and observing them in close proximity, there is no mammalian species as cunning, blindly loyal, or shameless as the common Cowboys fan. The team has been to more Super Bowls than any other team in the NFL. They’ve won more or less consistently throughout their entire existence. But they couldn’t get past Lombardi’s Packers. When they have been bad, they’ve been really bad. Their stadium is a monument to excess and their owner is not really the owner. He’s the owner/general manager/coach/scout/general mucker-about. And the whole America’s Team thing is so self-importantly untruthful that I can barely get my head around the concept. C’mon man! The Packers are America’s Team!

You can’t be a Redskins fan because the Redskins are…too political.

The Patriots are…to Belichick-ical. And they cheat.

The Eagles are…well, they have too many ties to the Holmgren-era Packers. There’s 4^th down and 26. And they beat Lombardi’s first Championship team. Forget about it.

The Browns are…well, they’re not really the Browns.

The Ravens are…well, they’re really the Browns. Or the Colts.

The Colts…well who really knows who they are? But it’s good their coach is holding his own in his fight against leukemia. Chuckstrong!

The New York teams (both of them) are…too big-market with too much baggage.

The West Coast teams are…too close to the next natural disaster. Or one particularly egregious officiating disaster. But thanks 49ers for pounding the snot out of the Bears so well on Monday night!

All of these teams have had success at one time or another. All have had great players come and go. Most have been consistently good for at least one period during their existence. They’ve all had their doormat periods too.

All of which brings me to the Packers. The Packers are unique in many ways.

The Packers are publically owned, by me and about 362,000 of my closest friends.

The Packers play in by far the smallest market (or DMA) in the NFL. The 18 largest markets in the country all have NFL teams. Twelve of the next 35 markets have teams. The next smallest market area, New Orleans, is ranked 53. Green Bay is ranked 70. Only about 106,000 people actually live in Green Bay.

Historically, the Packers are the third-oldest team in the NFL, behind only Arizona (as the Racine Cardinals) and Chicago (as the Decatur Staleys). Fans have kept the team alive when times were tough.

The Packers have won far more Championships (13) than any other team.

Green Bay is the only team to have won three Championships in a row, having done it twice (1929, 1930, 1931, and 1965, 1966, 1967).

The Packers have sold out every home game since 1960, including all those tough-to-watch games in the 70s and 80s when the Packers were, with rare exception, in their doormat mode.

The season ticket waiting list is so long that my grandchildren might make be able to buy them someday. But it’s highly likely that the team will still be in Green Bay and will still play in front of sold-out crowds when Bill II gets to the head of the line.

The Packers of today are a team with few of the personality problems with which other fans have to deal. Oh sure, once in a while somebody adroitly finds their mouth with their foot, but on balance there is far less turmoil associated with the Packers than most if not all other NFL teams. Tebow anyone?

The team and its stadium are both built to win for the long-haul. Lambeau Field is the oldest NFL stadium, but it has been renovated and improved to give the fans a great experience. The facility has the classic feel and historic look of a stadium in which a team like the Packers should play.

Nov 4, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) was all smiles after the Packers beat the Arizona Cardinals 31-17 at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-US PRESSWIRE

The quarterback is one of the finest in the league and could end up being the finest ever.  Just sayin’.

The management and coaches are all working toward the same goals. No coach-on-coach sniping or media-based tempestuousness in Packerland.

There are Packers fans all over the place. When the team travels there are more often than not enough Packers fans at road games to drown out the home team’s fans.

Perhaps best of all, the Packers don’t have the “fiery” coach or the owner who can and just might move the team elsewhere. I’m fine with that.

No, the Packers aren’t perfect. But what team in sports is? I’ve done the research, crunched the numbers, and analyzed the data. If you’re a Packers fan you already know I wasted my time.

Thankful I’m a Packers fan? As a matter of fact I am!

Happy Thanksgiving! Go Pack GO! And go Texans in Detroit!

DISCLAIMER: Absolutely no sensitivities were damaged during the writing of this article. However, reader sensitivities may have been damaged during the reading of this article.

There were a few lucky winners announced from this contest …

Travel Wisconsin’s “Packers Dream Draft Sweepstakes” winners were announced. earlier this week. The three lucky Packers fans were the winners of the state tourism department’s contest, earning them some great prizes all courtesy of the lucky draw.

The grand prize winner, Nikki Lopez, won four tickets, pre-game sideline passes and MVP Party passes to the Dec. 2 home game against the Minnesota Vikings, as well as a two-night stay at the Hampton Inn Green Bay and $50 to the Packers Pro Shop.

And the winners of the next four prizes should be happy, too.

The rest of the winners announced are as follows:

• First prize winner Scott Stram, from Prairie du Chien, Wis., who won six MVP Party passes and six tickets to the Dec. 2 game.
• Second prize winner Penny Bliss, from Beloit, Wis., who won four MVP Party passes and four tickets to the Dec. 23 game versus the Tennessee Titans.
• Third prize winner Daniel Furseth, from De Forest, Wis., who won two MVP Party passes and two Dec. 23 game tickets.

According to a press release from the tourism department, “A total of 16,825 fans representing all 50 states entered the ‘Packers Dream Draft Sweepstakes.’ The number of entries increased 59 percent from last year’s total contest entries. Winners were randomly selected.”

All I can say is luck dogs! They will surely enjoy their winnings, as will their friends.

This week the Packers find themselves once again as heavy home favorites. However they are playing the NFL’s version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the Arizona Cardinals, who started off 4-0, only to lose their next 4 games. They come into Lambeau Field 4-4 and desperate for a win to save their once promising season.

Aug 19, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) defends during the second quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

The Good

The Cardinals miss Kolb

The Cardinals will have John Skelton at quarterback. He has started 3 games this year. He was benched in his first start, and lost in the other two. He is ranked last in the NFL in quarterback rating (64.5), and has only thrown one touchdown pass all year.  In the interest of fairness his three starts have all come against pretty good defenses. Still when the opposing quarterback has as many touchdown passes as your punter (Masthay has 1 also), that’s a good thing.

The Cards O line is real bad

I will admit I have not watched the Cardinals play a lot this year, but some stats just stick out. One is that the Cardinals have given up 39 sacks this year. Thirty-nine! When the quarterback does happen to get off a pass they are only averaging 6.2 yards per attempt (31st in the NFL). So they are dumping the ball off a lot most likely due to the lack of protection. They cannot run the ball very well either. They are worst in the NFL in yards per carry (3.5) and second to last in yards per game with 79.

It’s at Lambeau Field

The Packers have only lost once this year at Lambeau, while the Cardinals have only won once on the road. The Cards stats are worse on the road across the board, especially offensively where in their last two games they could only muster three points against the Rams, and 14 points against the Vikings.

The Bad

The Cards D is still legit

I watched Alex Smith tear apart the Cardinals defense on Monday, and figured the Cardinals D was overrated. Then when I looked at the stats I saw a much different picture. The cards lead the NFL in sacks, they are ranked fourth in passing defense, and are fourth in points allowed. They have also created 15 turnovers this year, good for fifth in the NFL. They get good pressure, and are great in coverage, not good for the Packers who going in without their two best receivers, have trouble with protection, and can’t run the football.

Jordy Nelson is a game-time decision on whether he will play. Benny Sieu-US PRESSWIRE

Pack still bitten by the injury bug

The bye cannot come soon enough. The Packers have multiple injuries on both sides of the ball. The list just keeps getting longer, this week Jarel Worthy, Mike Neal, and Jerron McMillian joined the list. The packers have 14 players on the injured list, that’s more then a quarter of their team and that doesn’t even include Benson (special IR exemption).  Meanwhile the Cardinals have only ruled out only two players, Kolb and guard Adam Snyder.

The Bottom Line – This is not a good spot for the packers. They come into this game pretty beat up and ready for the bye week, while the Cardinals are angry from getting embarrassed by a division rival and need the victory. That being said, I just cannot picture John Skelton walking into Lambeau and beating Aaron Rodgers.

Oct 21, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Alex Green (20) carries the ball against the St. Louis Rams during the first half at Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kane-US PRESSWIRE

While Hurricane Sandy tears up the East Coast, the Jaguars leave stormy Jacksonville and travel to Green Bay to weather a different kind of storm at Lambeau Field.

Even though on radar greens and yellows are usually associated with milder weather, what the Jags can expect in Wisconsin on Sunday will not be pleasant.

The Packers come into the game against the 1-5 Jaguars with a record of 4-3 and on a 2-game winning streak.  The Packers need a W in this game to keep pace with Chicago and Minnesota.  Hopefully the Packers won’t overlook the Jags like Minnesota overlooked the Bucs on Thursday night.  If they need a reminder, all they need to do is mention Indianapolis.

Both teams are missing several players due to injury.  On both offense and defense one could call this the “new look” Packers.

On defense, the loss of DB Charles Woodson for what could be as long as 6 weeks will probably be the biggest hurdle to overcome.  Injuries suffered earlier in the year to LBs D.J. Smith and Nick Perry, DL B.J. Raji, and CB Sam Shields are still affecting the defense.  The good news here is that Raji practiced Thursday and has a chance to play against the Jaguars.  Quality depth across the defense makes it possible to fill the holes left by injuries without too much dropoff.  At least so far.

On offense, WR Greg Jennings has missed most of the season to injury and has opted to have surgery to repair an abdominal muscle tear.  He’ll probably be out another three weeks.  WR Jordy Nelson has a tweaked hamstring that might rule him out against the Jags.  Should he miss the game it will be time for Jones, Cobb, Driver, Boykin, and Finley to carry the load.  To any other NFL team the loss of its top two receivers would be a crippling blow.  Luckily the Packers have the best top-to-bottom group of receivers in the league, and the “next man up” philosophy will definitely apply for at least the next few weeks.

The Jaguars come into Green Bay without the considerable services of All-Pro RB Maurice Jones-Drew, their primary running back and offensive threat. Losing Jones-Drew makes it really tough for the Jags to be competitive against a team like the Packers, but not impossible.  Jaguars QB Baine Gabbert will likely play but he’s nursing a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder, so a Chad Henne sighting could materialize.  The Jaguars are missing some other players, but Jones-Drew and Gabbert are probably the most critical player issues for the Jaguars.

Here are some things to watch for during the game:

- In his Wednesday press conference this week, coach Mike McCarthy mentioned that the team needs and wants to run the ball better.  That sounded like a challenge to his offensive line to me.  I’m looking for more running attempts against the Jaguars than in any other game so far this season.

- I’ll be watching WRs Driver and Boykin closely in this game.  Jones and Cobb will be important, but Driver and Boykin will need to be involved.  With Jennings out and Nelson hurting, Nelson should be shut down for this game and the remaining WR group will need to deliver.  Drops were way down last week against the Rams.  Is it too much to hope for that they have none this week?  We’ll see.

- On defense, the secondary will be working to minimize the loss of Charles Woodson.  His loss will be felt, but the Packers have young talent and beginning this week it will have to produce.  Not to minimize the importance of this game or the Jaguars, but the secondary might be able to try a few things they might need to have ready for teams like the Giants and the rest of the NFC North after the bye.  They might not get a better opportunity to experiment.

- The offensive line needs to gain some consistency.  They have talent and experience, but their performances against better-than-average defensive fronts has been too spotty – especially in pass protection.  One thing every offensive lineman loves to do is run block, so should McCarthy and Clements opt for more runs to daylight than usual, the offensive line might benefit.  Effective play-action starts with and depends on the threat of a run.  Effective runs make every play-action pass easier to protect.

Green Bay Weather Forecast:

- A 70% chance of a special teams big play.  A blocked kick or punt, long return, something.  They’re due.

- A 90% chance the Packers run the ball for at least 150 yards, with Alex Green accounting for over 100 of them.

- A 60% chance the defensive secondary picks Jags QB Gabbert off at least twice.  Look for Casey Hayward to get at least one of them.

- A 80% chance Clay Matthews racks up three sacks, and Gabbert is sacked six times in the game.

- A 100% chance of Aaron Rodgers producing a QB rating over 130, thereby raining all over the Jaguars.

- A 50% chance Randall Cobb scores fewer touchdowns than Donald Driver.

- A 70% chance the Packers defense will score one touchdown.

We’ll be attending the watch party at Tailgator’s in The Woodlands this week – making lots of noise with plenty of Packers fans.  Stop on by!

Go Pack GO!

Follow Lombardiave.com at Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Greg Jennings has been out for three straight games and if the Packers are smart they will keep him out until after the bye. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The guessing game for the Green Bay Packers has started – will Greg Jennings be cleared this week to play against the Jacksonville Jaguars?

After missing three straight games because of a lingering groin injury suffered in the first game of the season against the San Francisco 49ers, there have been many who felt that Jennings would hit the field this week.

I hope not … it’s not worth it.

In fact, I feel the Packers should hold Jennings out this week and next. With the Packers then set for their bye the week after that, it will give Jennings plenty of time to heal and be ready to go for the playoff push after the bye.

Why should the Packers push the point and try to rush Jennings back at this point. The team is on a run of success and with two of the weakest sisters coming to play at Lambeau Field over the next two weeks, it’s the belief of just about everyone on the planet that there really isn’t a need for Jennings.

Considering that Jordy Nelson has put together two straight 100 yard games and Randall Cobb and James Jones have propelled to stardom, these factors have pushed the Packers into a position where they should come out of the bye with a 6-3 record ready to go into November and December as the favorites to win the National Football Conference title.

It’s the final two months of the season that the Packers will be needing a healthy Greg Jennings.

Now, all that could change if Jennings doesn’t heal … and there was talk late last night that he was considering seeing a specialist about his condition.

But even if that occurs, the Packers are still in a great position to succeed without the services of Jennings. There’s no reason to rush things along. Jennings will be better for it and so will the Packers.

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

October 7, 2007. Packers vs. Bears. Lambeau Field. I was there. So was Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The major entertainment news of this week was the marriage of Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel. They were married in Italy. I wasn’t there.

So, why is that important on a Green Bay Packers website?

Because one of their first dates was at Lambeau Field. In 2007. Against the Chicago Bears. They were there. So was I.

You may have seen the short video clip of the two taking in the Lambeau experience along the sidelines with former Packers executive Andrew Brandt … well, I was there, too, but ashamedly didn’t get the shot of the lovebirds before they exited the field to head upstairs to enjoy the game in Brett Favre’s luxury box. I didn’t go with them.

More than likely, I was in the press room stuffing my face with the buffet offerings before i headed down to the field that warm early October night.

Not only did I miss the opportunity to catch some photos of Timberlake and Biel, but word has it that Ashton Kutcher and his former flame, Demi Moore, were also in attendance that lovely night.

I guess I was more in tune with the game, a loss by the Packers to the hated Bears. I remember James Jones fumbling twice in that game … big plays that helped give the game away.

There was no word from the box how the celebs reacted to the win.

I know how I reacted. I was there.

If you’re making the journey to Lambeau Field for tomorrow’s game, be aware of road construction. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

If you’re heading to Lambeau Field for the 2012 season opener featuring the Green Bay Packers and the San Francisco 49ers you should be aware that getting to the stadium may not be so simple – translation: road construction.

With that in mind, the Wisconsin State Department of Transportation so kindly issued its travel advisory, which you can see below. There are several areas where traffic slow-downs are being expected. Pay special attention to the areas along which you will be traveling and most importantly – leave a little early to be sure you arrive on time.

I would hate to have you miss that first touchdown pass that Aaron Rodgers throws!

So, take a look at the advisory below … and enjoy the game.

Packer travel advisory – Road construction update in Northeast Wisconsin

(Green Bay) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Northeast Region is reminding motorists heading to Lambeau Field on Sunday, September 9 for the Green Bay Packers/San Francisco 49ers football game that the road construction season continues on most major roads in Northeast Wisconsin. While most projects will stop and two lanes of traffic will be open, drivers might still encounter road conditions in the work zones that could cause backups.

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

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

US 41

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

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

WIS 29

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

WIS 32

·        Brown County – Motorists traveling southbound on WIS 32/Ashland Avenue following the game are advised to use WIS 172 to access US 41 and avoid using the temporary ramp from WIS 32/Ashland Avenue directly to US 41.

WIS 54

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

I-43/Leo Frigo Bridge

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

o   Southbound I-43 off-ramp to Webster Avenue

o   Northbound I-43 on-ramp from Webster Avenue

o   Southbound I-43 on-ramp from Atkinson Drive

WIS 57

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

Oneida Street – City of Ashwaubenon

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

Jordy Nelson scores a touchdown versus the 49ers back in 2010. Packers fans hope Nelson and the other Packers receivers come up big against the 49ers Sunday. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

In a bit more than 24 hours we will all be transfixed on Lambeau Field and the opening of the 2012 National Football League game for both the Green Bay Packers and the San Francisco 49ers.

Many feel this is a preview of the the National Football Conference Championship Game … to me, that’s a bit premature. Both of these teams will look a lot different in December and January than they look now, but as we enter the season, this is as big as it gets. No doubt, this game trumps all others this first week – even the Cowboys vs. Giants and Broncos vs. Steelers, in my opinion, aren’t as sexy as this one.

You’ve got offense versus defense; Aaron Rodgers versus Alex Smith; the Packers offensive line versus the Smith boys on the 49ers defensive line; Randy Moss versus the Packers secondary – and a whole lot more.

And so, with that in mind, we here at Lombardiave.com have caught up with Eric Melendez, the lead editor at our Fansided.com fellow blog site, NinerNoise.com. We asked him a few questions about his outlook for Sunday’s game. In kind, we also answered a few questions he threw our way – we will feature our answers right here on our site tomorrow morning, so be sure to stop back prior to the game to see our exchange.

In the meantime, here’s our questions and Eric’s responses:

With new addition Perrish Cox and second-year player Chris Culliver at cornerback behind the starters, the secondary appears to be in good hands. Cox showed in the preseason he makes the correct reads of what the quarterback is going to do. Culliver has the size and speed to keep up with the Packers receivers.

Lombardiave: The 49ers defense has been hailed as one of the best to hit the field in many years. The question I have going into Sunday’s game is this: Can they really slow down the Packers’ offense?

The 49ers defense will pose a huge challenge to the Packers offense. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Niner Noise: The 49ers’ secondary looked sluggish in the preseason, especially the first-stringers, which was not encouraging.  However, the 49ers have Pro Bowlers Carlos Rogers at cornerback and Dashon Goldson at safety leading and directing what the secondary needs to do on Sunday. What is key to the 49ers slowing down the Packers’ offense is applying constant pressure on Rodgers and forcing him to make mistakes, something the defensive line and linebackers did well last season. If the 49ers defense cannot get pressure on Rodgers, there is no way they will slow down the passing game.

Lombardiave: Given that the Packers’ pass defense was pathetic last season and considering that the Packers have had injuries to their defensive line (Pickett and Raji) will the Niners try to exploit the Packers through the air or on the ground?

Niner Noise: Expect the 49ers offense to exploit the Packers through the ground more than the air. The 49ers upgraded their passing game with the new additions at wide receiver, but the running game will still be the focus of the offense. The 49ers offensive line will win the matchup against the Packers defensive line, allowing them to march down the field. The real question is can the 49ers score touchdowns and not field goals after entering the red zone. This is something they struggled with last season which is why kicker David Akers set multiple kicking records. The 49ers need to score a touchdown on every possession if they want to keep up with the Packers prolific passing offense and have a chance to win the game.

Moss is second on the receivers depth chart, so Jim Harbaugh and his coaching staff knows he can and will be valuable on the field as well. If Harbaugh did not think Moss could start and would do damage to opposing defenses, he would not be one of the starting receivers. Look for Moss to be a favorite target for Alex Smith in the back of the end zone.

Niner Noise: The 49ers and Packers will get off to a slow start as it is opening week and we will see some turnovers from both teams in the first half. The second half will be faster paced with both teams making plays they should on offense and defense. As much as the offenses will be highlighted, both defenses will be what everyone will be talking about after the game. It will be a close game throughout with 49ers edging out the win, 25-23, in the final minutes with a turnover.

If you're headed to Lambeau Field Thursday night to cheer on the Packers of the Chiefs, leave early enough to avoid traffic congestion. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

The Green Bay Packers will conclude their preseason schedule Thursday night, Aug. 30, with an early evening game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

While this final game will be played without most of the starting units for both teams, Lambeau Field will again be filled with Packers and Chiefs fans who will make the trek to Green Bay throughout the day.

What they may find, especially during arrival are a number of routes that will be clogged with vehicles, not only because of the sheer volume, but because of a number of roads that are under construction in and around the city.

To ease the pain of travel, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation has provided a handy guide describing the best routes and what to expect.

The following is the complete guide provided by the DOT:

Packer travel advisory – Road construction

update in Northeast Wisconsin

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

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

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

US 41

·        Brown County – Drivers will encounter 11-foot travel lanes and reduced shoulders in multiple locations along a 10-mile segment of highway. The speed limit is reduced to 55 mph from just south of Scheuring Road to Velp Avenue. Access to southbound US 41 from Ashland Avenue is maintained through the use of a temporary access road; however, due to expected high levels of traffic motorist will be directed to WIS 172. The southbound US 41 on-ramp from Main Avenue is closed.

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

WIS 29

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

WIS 54

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

I-43/Leo Frigo Bridge

·        Brown County – Traffic on I-43 at the Leo Frigo Bridge is reduced to a single lane with speeds reduced to 55 mph in both directions over a 3.5-mile segment of the highway. In addition, the northbound I-43 on-ramp from Webster Avenue and the southbound I-43 on-ramp from Atkinson Drive are closed to traffic.

Headed to Lambeau Field tonight? Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Interested in watching tonight’s preseason game?

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

The weather

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

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

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

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

On the road

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

Packer travel advisory

Road construction update in Northeast Wisconsin

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

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

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

US 41

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

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

WIS 29

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

WIS 54

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

I-43/Leo Frigo Bridge

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

Radio stations

Boise, Idaho

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

Knoxville, Tennessee

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

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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

Omaha, Nebraska

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

Springfield, Missouri

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

Tucson, Arizona

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

Tulsa, Oklahoma

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

Wichita, Kansas

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

Packers rookie Jerel Worthy is just one of several rookies, especially on defense, being eyed as cogs to an improved 2012 Packers team. Dan Hogan photograph

It’s been a pretty eventful few days for The Green Bay Packers, the coaches, and their fans.

The Packers look bad in dropping their first exhibition game at San Diego, they lose one of their best defensive players probably for the season and another promising defender for at least a couple of weeks. The team is decimated by injuries, the offensive line is in a shambles and then Ted Thompson continues with his trend of consistent inconsistency by signing Cedric Benson – a talented running back with a tainted history.

And that’s just the past four days. Now the Packers have to get ready to play the Cleveland Browns Thursday night at Lambeau Field, try to get some players patched up and get Benson acclimated to the Packer way and Packers Nation.

It should be fun.

In that spirit, I thought I would bring you some of the more interesting posts I’ve come across the past couple of days as we head into a new week.

Enjoy and don’t forget to keep on coming back to Lombardiave.com for all the Packers news you might find somewhere else, but with its own blend and twist – also, our Facebook page is a hoot and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter.

Clipped from: jerseyal.com (share this clip)

Clipped from: www.foxsportswisconsin.com (share this clip)

Clipped from: www.espnmilwaukee.com (share this clip)

Clipped from: www.jsonline.com (share this clip)

Clipped from: www.jsonline.com (share this clip)

August 9, 2012, San Diego, CA: Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rogers (12) calls an audible in the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jody Gomez-US PRESSWIRE

Turnovers, Injuries, dropped passes, a poor running game and just general inconsistency plagued the Packers in their preseason opener against the San Diego Chargers Thursday night on national television.

It’s not an uncommon scene and certainly not something that should concern Packers fans too much. There is never much one can take away from that first game of the year – other than the fact that, thankfully, it doesn’t count.

But there are some things for certain – the Packers have to get healthy and they have to show vast improvement in consistency next time out.

When Nick Perry opened the game with a sack on Philip Rivers, Packers fans cheered. But when the flag came out for unsportsmanlike conduct because of his post-sack enthusiasm, Packers Nation could only grow. I guess it was the harbinger of the the night.

The Packers gave up a 23-yard touchdown to Antonio Gates after fumbling the ball away on their first drive of the night. Another fumble on the ensuing kickoff only spelled out what type of night it would be. Though the defense held its own throughout the game and Graham Harrell finally led the Packers to a score just before halftime and another touchdown at the beginning of the fourth quarter, it wasn’t enough.

Aug 9, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Desmond Bishop (55) is tended to by members of the Packers

But Donald Driver said patience is required, especially at this time of year. “That was the whole thing,” Driver said. “You have to get the rust off, and then you start playing ball. You see exactly what he can do. Right before half, he drives the ball right down there and scores. That was big for us. He has the confidence that he can play on this level, and he’s proven it.”

To his credit, Harrell didn’t get down. He kept working and the coaching staff showed their confidence and stuck with him.

“That’s kind of the attitude and mentality I try to bring in every day,” Harrell said. He who finished 15 of 27 passing for 135 yards and a TD. His passer rating was 81.6. “Whatever just happened, whether it was great or whether it was really bad, let’s play the next one and see what happens.”

The game ended after the Chargers had scored a late touchdown to give them a 21-13 lead. Rookie B.J. Coleman was then thrust into the lineup to lead the Packers on a last ditch attempt to try to score. On the last play of the game, Coleman completed a pass to rookie RB Marc Tyler who was stripped of the ball by former Packer Ricky Elmore.

It was a fitting end to a game where inconsistence ruled the day.

Aug 9, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk (50) yells out defensive calls before the snap against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-US PRESSWIRE

Positives that came out of the game? Randall Cobb, Tim Masthay, D.J. Smith, Davon House, Tramon Williams, and even Harrell once he got his legs under him. One could also include the play of Tyler, but his fumble to end the game put a damper on that.

Negatives: Injuries to House and Desmond Bishop. Bishop’s could be serious and would be an extreme blow to the Packers middle defense. House is to have X-rays to see the extent of the damage.

The Packers have a week of practice ahead of them where one hopes the coaching staff stresses ball security. They are in action again Thursday, Aug. 16, when they host the Cleveland Browns at Lambeau Field.