Green Bay Packers Coach Vince Lombardi and right guard Jerry Kramer share the special moment that was Lombardi’s final game and Super Bowl II victory over the Oakland Raiders.
Sports Illustrated photograph

Super Bowl Sunday. Yes, we know. We know!

Oh how we all wish it were the Green Bay Packers versus the rest of the world for which we were all preparing. But shucks, it’s not.

So on with our lives, one more day of the Harbaughs, Ray Lewis, and anything and everything San Francisco. I’m sure we will enjoy it once we get into it, but getting there is the tough part for many of us Packers fans who lament this day without our team. But we’re not alone. There are 29 other teams facing the same.

Tooling around the Intenet this morning, I came across this beautiful site (or is it sight?).

Check it out. I was at least quite pleased with the cover photo … it is indeed beautiful – and brings me to this final parting shot: Why does Warren Sapp make it into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on the first ballot, while the Green Bay Packers’ Jerry Kramer still waits?

Is there no sense or justice in this world … Not in this instance.

Anyway, enjoy the photographs by clicking here …

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis (52) addresses the press during this week’s “pageant,” otherwise known as media day.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

As a semi-casual, half-hearted Green Bay Packers fan, I find the lull between the early exit of the playoffs until the start of mini-camps to be a very dull and uninteresting time.  Yet there is always one week that does seem to come alive with at least one or two stories that were either tailor made or were being held just until the right moment to be sprung upon the general populace.

Yep, it is media week so bring out the stupidity and the shocking that comes with the competition we know as the Super Bowl.

This year we have three incidents that clearly are contending for the Crown of Stupidity.  So with no further adieu, let me announce the winners (to date, things could change as we still have five days to go before kickoff).

Mardi Gras figurine of New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees at the Super Bowl XLVII media party at Mardi Gras World.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Second runner goes up to Mr. Drew Brees, who also wins the award for Mr. Congeniality.  It seems that Mr. Brees decided to take it upon himself to throw all of the former NFL players who gave their blood, sweat and tears to the game under the bus so guys like him could line their pockets.  Mr. Brees in the question and answer portion of the competition explained that it was poor financial planning on the part of former players that resulted in their financial shortcomings today.  He went on to elaborate that current players should not have to pay or give more in order to support those who came before he and all the other multimillionaires could line their pockets.

Fortunately, former Packer Great, Herb Adderley was there to score Mr. Brees and point out his utter stupidity and lack of understanding of the topic matter.

Mr. Adderley stated,

“Drew Brees is misinformed and he had no idea what was going on as far as why, he never came to any of the guys and said, ‘Well, why did you have to take early pension?’ He just made up his own mind about why some guys were in bad shape financially. And he just came out and made statements like that. And in my mind, Drew Brees is one of the greediest guys, and misinformed guys, in the NFL today. Last year he held out because he wanted more money. The guy’s already made millions and millions and millions of dollars, but he’s going to hold out for more money. And then he comes down on the retired guys for just wanting a few more dollars for the time, the cornerstones, what we put in the league  …  And none of us retired guys are fans of Brees because of him being misinformed. I needed the money. I needed to put my daughter through school and she ended up being a very successful dentist at the particular time in Washington, D.C.  If I don’t do that, she don’t end up going to college.”

Ohhhhh, sorry Drew, it seems you have a severe case of foot-in-mouth disease.  Why don’t you go back to the locker room  and plan some more bounties with the rest of the team … oh wait, I mean develop defensive schemes that will allow your defense to capitalize on the weaknesses of your opponents.

Randy Moss
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

First runner-up goes to Randy Moss.  Up until this point, I forgot that Randy still played in the NFL.  In fact, I thought he had been traded to the CFL for a sled dog and a VHS copy of “Strange Brew,” starring Bob and Doug McKenzie.  But I was proven wrong as evident in the evening gown competition when Randy strutted out on to the stage in a pink gown with matching gloves.

While walking the walk, he clearly talked the talk and reminded everyone who was listening that he is the “greatest” wide receiver in the history of the NFL.  This coming from the man who graciously pretended to moon the faithful at Lambeau Field and insulted the caterer for the Minnesota Vikings.  He also led to the downfall of one Brad Childress and was instrumental in pretty much nothing since leaving the Minnesota Vikings.  Clearly, Randy is a legend in his own mind.

How one man can be so full of himself  to think that he can upstage all the other contestants to win the evening gown competition is inconceivable.  Yet I was informed that it was a close race between him and Honey Boo Boo for this portion of the competition.  The fact that Honey Boo Boo was able to establish more credibility and honesty with the judges allowed him to take the crown.

Congratulations, Randy Moss, you are this years winner of the Biggest Ego.  Unfortunately as your head gets bigger, so does your mouth.

Ray Lewis
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Finally this year’s winner (to date) is a tie.  A tie between Ray Lewis and Sports Illustrated.  In the swimsuit competition, both competitors came out wearing the same one piece black swim suit.  Both competitors clearly knew how to wait until the last minute to make a statement that took all the attention away from the competition and focused it on their own self-indulging escapades.

Sports Illustrated led off with a shocking news story that Ray Lewis used a banned substance (deer antler spray) to help him in his recovery from a season-ending injury in order to be ready for the granddaddy of all pageants.  Ray Lewis, for his own sake, is denying everything (which in this day and age, thanks to Lance Armstrong, equates to admitting guilt).  So as both contestants walked down the aisle, they suffered swimsuit malfunctions resulting in exposing a dirty little secret that will take the attention away from the game.

The winners will receive more TV and face time then Joan Rivers at a plastic surgery convention, yet Joan will definetly look better in the crown and the Go Daddy swimsuit!

Roger Goodell
Jim O

A special award goes to Roger Goodell for his handling of the NFL referees debacle,the Bountygate eruption and everything else that went wrong this year for the NFL.  According to one judge, “If it were not for Goodell, we would have had a normal and uneventful season.”

So as we wrap up this year’s pageant week, a special thank you to all of our contestants.  Though your crowns are honorary, your self-indulgence, greediness and lack of integrity will continue to define you for as long as there is football or at least until next year when some other bone heads take your place during Super Bowl week …

now can we just play some football?

Jan 29, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Randy Moss is interviewed during media day in preparation for Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

If you haven’t seen his majesty, Mr. Randy Moss’s most recent quote, you might just react the way I did when I heard about the San Francisco 49ers’ most recent statement.

As reported by NFL.com, here is what the master mooner had to say:

“I don’t really live on numbers. I really live on impact and what you’re able to do out on that field. I really do think that I’m the greatest receiver to ever play this game.”

I have to agree with my fansided.com brother, Matt Hamm, over at ninernoise.com, when he said it was “one of the dumbest comments he’s ever spoken …”

Is Moss so full of himself to describe himself that way and to forget that there have been other guys to play the position with the names of Hutson, Rice, Reed, Lofton, Warfield, Harrison, Taylor, Monk and so many others who have come before him?

Apparently not.

I suppose he thinks he’s also the best caterer around and the best faux mooner, as well.

Needless to say, Moss has never been the brightest bulb in the box, and his latest comment certainly doesn’t add to his legacy. In fact, not only did his comment about being the greatest rub non-Niners fans the wrong way, but when he also said that he wanted to play one more year, but wouldn’t commit to coming back to San Francisco, he no doubt ticked off fans of his current team.

Maybe one can attribute his comments to the stress of the Super Bowl, but probably not. Moss has been there before and has faced the crush of the media throughout his career. He’s simply an arrogant cuss who can’t retire soon enough.

I have to agree to Hamm’s comment about Moss:

“Before today I was pro bringing Moss back, he’s been a good mentor/teammate and has done the job asked of him.  Now, I think the organization should let Sunday be his last game and publicly declare after the big game that they are moving on without him next season.”

So long, Randy.

But we can’t help it that their trophy cases are empty and that their players can’t wear Super Bowl rings.

The following is a beautiful site for those fans whose favorite team has won a Super Bowl. The rings for each championship are featured here and of course, for Packers fans, there are four Packers Super Bowl rings to gas-gaa over.

Our only disappointment is that the Packers haven’t had one designed for the team since 2010 and won’t be having one this year either.

Can we say 2013? Sounds like a good year to add the team’s 14th NFL championship.

But in the meantime, check out this site. 

So many Packers fans have a superstition they feel helps the team and prevents them from losing. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

This week, I decided that I needed help from my Green Bay Packers family. I knew that I had a superstition problem, but I also knew that I wasn’t alone.

So, with that in mind, I threw out a call to all Packers fans to offer their own superstitions when it came to the Packers. Needless to say my superstition of the need to be sure my bath towel label always faces in wasn’t the only unusual superstition.

There were those who told us about their need to close their eyes, the need to face away from the television and to only watch replays; the need dress their children in specific clothing.

But without giving away too much, I thought it important to allow the folks who responded to our post to speak for themselves.

Check them all out below:

• 

   Allison Leapard Recently I’ve been closing my eyes during field goals….seems to be working.

  Yesterday at 9:00pm · Unlike · 3
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  Chance Zombor The Pack tends to lose when I’m not watching (or at least following the game). Sounds funny, but they seem to need my psychic energy.

  Yesterday at 9:01pm · Unlike · 4
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  Matt Burke I rub the “G” on my Packers hat like a talisman should the team ever get behind. LOL

  Yesterday at 9:03pm · Unlike · 2
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  Sharon Chartraw Vlasak My dog has to be wearing her Packer bandana. It’s not often I forget it, but when I do – we lose.

  Yesterday at 9:06pm · Unlike · 1
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  Lori Kitzhaber I can’t wear Packer stuff on game day UNLESS I am AT the game! Seriously!!

  Yesterday at 9:10pm · Unlike · 2
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  Sal Parker 5×7 framed pic of Vince- with lit candles next to it !

  Yesterday at 9:11pm · Unlike · 2
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  Melodie Peltier-Thorp Every game we have lost I had my Rodgers jersey on. Got a new Jersey (Cobb) and those are winning games.

  Yesterday at 9:13pm · Unlike · 2
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  Victoria Ahuna I have to be in team colors by kick off and remain in them. If i spill something on myself I have to wait until halftime to change and I have to change into other Packer clothes, not just green and yellow.

  Yesterday at 9:13pm via mobile · Unlike · 3
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  Ken Walden Not allowed to use the restroom during the game or else the opposition gets a big play against us

  Yesterday at 9:15pm via mobile · Unlike · 2
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  Dinger Mueller Have to have the Packer flag posted on the front porch. Have to be wearing Packer gear. Can’t miss kickoff, Whether it’s on tv or I’m at the game. Nitschke picture has to be near or on the t.v. Also, since I’m a teacher, any Packer pictures the kids drew for me are displayed near the t.v. That pretty much covers it.

  Yesterday at 9:21pm · Like · 2
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  Sheryl Elizabeth Kolka I HAVE to have my Donald Driver Jersey on… it’s a must..

  Yesterday at 9:21pm via mobile · Like · 1
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  Mary Pat Rohde Every time I sit in a chair to watch the game, the Packers lose. So I sit at my computer, my back to the tv, and only turn around for replays or at commercials. I have been to 1 game at Lambeau, and they lost that one. I just can’t watch the actual game. So please keep me posted on game day; I won’t be watching.

  Yesterday at 9:31pm · Unlike · 3
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  Renato Priest Carter I put on some Green Bay Gear and watch the game.

  Yesterday at 9:41pm via mobile · Like · 1
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  Marcie Mullen Hummel Rodgers T-shirt, GB earrings, necklace, slippers, flag out front, dogs collar on ALL season and her jersey if necessary at half-time, drink in hand! I think that’s it!

  Yesterday at 10:00pm via mobile · Unlike · 2
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  Loreeli Kennedy Swoboda It is not lame! Whatever you do, is something you should continue to do, it’s tradition. I do two things before every game, no matter even if I’m able to watch the game that day. One, before the game, I find a quiet spot and I pray for the Packers, I pray that The Lord will be with each player, to not get hurt, for all the coaches, & I pray that He will put His hand upon each one & that He will guide them to a win, if it be His will! Then every time, they are struggling I pray again! I also thank The Lord for every TD, FG, & interception, every challenged call that goes our way, I give Him the praise & say, To God Be the Glory! I believe that everyone has a gift & the Packers have a gift & I really believe that The Lord provides for them & helps them, it’s only through Him we are blessed! Then I wear my Packer shirt or sweatshirt all day that day of the game. I have so many, but I also have my favorites. I try to get everybody to that I’m with to wear theirs as well. At our families Group home, when I’m with the Residents & have a party for them almost every game. I get them excited! We hang one of the Residents signed Jersey of Jordy Nelson on the fireplace for good Luck! It’s worked almost everytime. The times I haven’t been watching, they seem to lose! Haha! Now that’s a big superstition, but it’s mine & I’m sticking to my story!

  Yesterday at 10:07pm via mobile · Unlike · 4
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  Darryle Brown I “gear up” with my Cheesehead hat. I’ve worn it every game since the first several games and they have been on a winning streak ever since.

  21 hours ago · Like
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  Daniel Stuntz During the 2010 Super Bowl run, I grew a beard and didn’t shave for nearly two months until they won. I had shaved just before the loss to the Pats, but they won out all of they’re remaining games…

  15 hours ago · Like
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  Kris Aguilar Like Allison above, I’ve started closing my eyes during Crosby FG attempts, and he hasn’t missed one since. I also seem to subconsciously hold my breath from the snap of the ball until the play is complete–to prevent turnovers, y’know!

  15 hours ago · Like
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  Stacey Ehlenfeldt During the 1996-97 Super Bowl Run we put our 3 month old baby in a larger fitting Packer outfit. We noticed every time he didn’t wear the outfit the team would lose SO we kept stuffing him in the same outfit all the way through the Super Bowl. A few years later we sent the outfit to Favre to be signed. We got it back 7 months later signed. We have it framed, hanging on the wall in a hallway. Very Cool!

  6 hours ago · Like
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  Stacey Ehlenfeldt If I wear my Grant jersey during the game, they lose. I wear anything but that jersey now.

  6 hours ago · Like

Sep 13, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Cedric Benson (32) during the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Bears 23-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Though his 2012 season statistics through four games only show him gaining 228 yards on 64 rushing attempts, Green Bay Packers running back Cedric Benson has been a key to the team’s offensive success during the early going and is showing signs that he could bring new life to the Packers attack as the season wears on.

Will he rush for 1,000 yards for the fourth straight season? Probably not. The Packers pass-happy offensive scheme won’t allow that to occur. But his production should give the Packers exactly what they were looking for when Ted Thompson brought him to Green Bay in August.

As he has shown the last two weeks, first against the Seahawks when he took over in the second half of that game, and again last week against the Saints when he nearly hit the century mark, Benson has brought a new attitude to the Packers run game.

His punishing runs between the tackles is slowing the defensive pass rush and allowing quarterback Aaron Rodgers more time in the passing game.

We are just beginning to see his impact. If Benson can continue to rush between 15 to 20 times per game for 75 to 90 yards, he will be exactly what the Packers want and need.

Flash back to the Packers 2010 Super Bowl run when James Starks came out of nowhere to revitalize the Packers run game – that is exactly what the Packers need at this point in the 2012 season.

If Benson can continue this type of production the rest of the season, he will give the Packers just what they are looking for – however, he has to do two things: he has to stay healthy and he can’t turn the ball over.

Not only will his production on the field give Alex Green more time to heal his surgically repaired knee, but it should also provide Starks more time to get healthy.

More than likely Benson will need a breather as the season wears on, so it’s important that both Green and Starks are healthy when called on.

Benson could be the key to many wins over the remaining three-quarters of this season and could indeed be the linchpin to another Super Bowl run.

I do.

But I also remember how the franchise played in four Super Bowls, losing all four. We’ve all heard the jokes about what you find in the Vikings trophy case and such, but it’s actually kind of sad that their fans haven’t had a better shake.

However, that’s enough feeling sorry for Vikings fans. The team’s failings can’t be changed.

And while it’s highly doubtful the team will vie anytime soon for a Super Bowl berth, at least things are looking up for the franchise with the projected building and completion of its new $975 million stadium in 2016.

To that end, the Vikings today officially announced a bid for a future Super Bowl to be held at the site of the new stadium. I guess if you can’t shake at the big dance, you can at least play host.

This year’s Super Bowl will be held in New Orleans, next year’s in New Jersey and the year after that in Arizona. Sites for 2015 and 2016 are to be decided upon Next May. Should the Vikes be awarded the bid for 2016, they better be on schedule with construction.

And who knows? Maybe by then the team will have shaken its 40 years of no Super Bowl appearances.

But I’m not holding out hope.

Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers may have been relaxed at last week's Family Night, but tonight the Packers get down to business against the Chargers. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

To preview today’s preseason game, Ernie Padaon of Fansided.com’s Boltbeat queried Lombardi Ave, the FanSided Packers site, to get a little more info on what is going on out in cheese land. Here is what I had to say:

1. What Packers veterans are on the bubble? 
There are a few Packer veterans who might see reduced playing time or may end up being cut. CB Sam Shields has had a rough start to his camp. He’s been beaten consistently and doesn’t seem to be playing like the third-year player that he is. He’s in a battle with Jarrett Bush and second-year player Davon House, among others. It will be interesting to see if he sticks. Though A.J. Hawk signed a long-term contract after the 2010-11 Super Bowl season, there are many who feel he could be beaten out by second-year player D.J. Smith. Smith started for Hawk when he was injured last year and made impressive play after play. Smith has a nose for the ball and always seems to be around it. The Packers already cut Charlie Peprah because they want to go with younger players and also play Charles Woodson on the back end of the defense. The next couple of weeks should be interesting as the competition for spots continues.

2. A lot of Chargers fans wanted to draft Nick Perry before we got a chance at Melvin Ingram, how is Perry doing in camp so far? 
Glad you asked that. He’s been kind of the Invisible Man as he makes the transition from a down defensive lineman to a stand-up outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. Nobody’s panicking yet because he is a beast of an athlete and most feel that when he learns the system and gets more playing time that he will come around and be the perfect complement to Clay Matthews.

3. What Packers youngsters are looking to steal a roster spot coming into the game? 
It looks like Marcus Tyler, the FA running back from Southern Cal is going to get some playing time and if he plays well, could make a move for at least a practice squad spot. On defense, the Packers are really high on Casey Hayward. He’s looked like a player during the first week or two of training camp, but his value won’t be known until he gets some playing time. With Davon House, the Packers may be seeing a real resurgence of young players at the cornerback position.

4. What is your favorite cheese? 
ahahahahahaha – I always come back to sharp cheddar!

5. Predict the Packers season
After a 15-1 season and then getting knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by the Giants, the Packers are coming into this season with a chip on their shoulders. The team is looking for redemption. Though I doubt they will go through the majority of the season unbeaten again like they did last year, I see this team winning at least 12 games and possibly 13. They will need that many to win the division. In the end, I can honestly say that if they don’t make the playoffs, it will be a huge disappointment. I think the team won’t disappoint and will compete for a Super Bowl berth. Anything less would be very disappointing.

Ernie Padaon’s Comments
Nick Perry as the invisible man? Could you imagine if we took him with the first pick and he was an invisible man? People would be calling him a bust immediately and calling for AJs head for another failed draft pick.

The sharp cheddar is always a good go-to cheese also. Even in the land of cheese, cheddar can always be counted on for deliciousness.

What is your favorite cheese?

Packers punter Tim Masthay was rewarded Friday with a four-year contract extension that included a $1.2 million signing bonus. John Rieger-US PRESSWIRE

While most Packers fans have been anticipating the possibility of the franchise locking up star wide receiver Greg Jennings to a contract extension that would keep him in Green Bay for many years to come, the team announced a different contract extension Friday – one for punter Tim Masthay.

The Packers’ punter who won the job as a walk-on in 2010 was awarded a $5.5 million contract that will run through 2016. It includes a $1.2 million signing bonus.

Masthay has helped the Packers improve special teams play each year and was instrumental in the Packers’ 2011 Super Bowl run with several huge games down the stretch.

During his time with the Packers, Masthay has averaged 4.6 yards per punt and 38 yards. Last season, he averaged 45.6 yards per punt and 38.6 gross.

Maybe now it’s time the Packers move on to sign Jennings?

Who will hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy in February 2012? Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

Yesterday, July 26, everyone was pretty giddy with the start of NFL training camps across the league.

The focus here, of course, was Green Bay. But it didn’t matter whether you were – Chicago, New Orleans, New York or San Francisco – the talk was all the same.

“Guys are flying’ around;” “Great to be back;” “Ready to get going;” “Super Bowl.”

Everyone is going to the Super Bowl, if you believe what players and coaches were spouting yesterday. Well, of course it’s great to hear that all are optimistic about going to and winning a Super Bowl. That’s the way it should be on the first day of training camp.

But now that the first day is gone, let’s get real. Let’s stop the talk and let’s just get down to brass tacks. Jacksonville is not going to the Super Bowl. Tennessee is not going to the Super Bowl. Cleveland is not going to the Super Bowl. St. Louis is not going to the Super Bowl.

To get to the Super Bowl may never happen for some teams in the NFL, such as Cleveland and Jacksonville, but I guess it’s OK to have goals and the set the bar high.

But let’s move on now. Let’s start talking about the nuts and bolts – the competitions within each camp where players are fighting for that 53-man final roster spot. Yes, let’s get real.

While the Chicago Bears have as good a shot at reaching the Super Bowl as just about anyone in the League, at least Brandon Marshall hit the nail on the head in his interview yesterday when asked about the words “Super Bowl.” Almost in awe, he said, “It’s real.”

Will Marshall, Cutler and company make it real? Well, they have to get by the Packers, Lions and Vikings to do it. Is that “real?” I can’t say yet.

All I can say at this point is that it truly is time to get real.

Dec 25, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Charlie Peprah (26) returns an interception during the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Bears 35-21. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

It came as somewhat of a surprising move by the Green Bay Packers, but the team announced today that they have released Charlie Peprah.

The starting safety for the Packers the past couple of seasons wasn’t considered a star, and probably wouldn’t be a starter on many teams, but he was in the right place at the right time in 2010 when he took over for Morgan Burnett and played beside Nick Collins on the Packers’ run to a Super Bowl Championship.

However, last season when Nick Collins went down with an eventual career-ending neck injury, Peprah was again turned to … he had some moments last year, but the Packers didn’t think he fit into their future plans and will go with Burnett,  M.D. Jennings and Jerron McMillian, the rookie from Maine – and let it shake out from there. The team must think enough of McMillian for them to say goodbye to Peprah.

Anyway, I was forwarded this link from Melinda Banks. I didn’t know there were any highlight films about Charlie Peprah out there, but I guess you can find anything on YouTube.

Enjoy …

Will A.J. Hawk win the starting inside linebacking position this season? Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Since the Packers moved to a 3-4 defensive philosophy, their defense has been about as consistent as the lineup for the Monday Night Football broadcasters.

In 2008, they were twentieth in yards given up per game. In 2009, they jumped to 2nd, in 2010, they were 5th and in 2011 all way down to last.

While some might point to the presence, or lack thereof of a player like Cullen Jenkins (he played in only four games in 2008 and, of course we know by the unsullied jersey of Eli Manning last January, zero games for the Pack in 2012), the play of their linebackers hasn’t been a stellar example of consistency.

In fact, no position on the Packers defense has had to endure as many rotating starters since 2008 as the linebacking corps. For long periods of time, the following have been completely out or at the very least severely encumbered by injury: Matthews (hamstring, shin), Hawk, Barnett, Walden, Zombo, Brad Jones, Brandon Chillar.

Will D.J. Smith get more playing time or even a starting role this season? Raymond T. Rivard photograph

So it should come as no surprise when we, Packers fans to the enth degree, search for spectacular stability. We’ve had it at almost every other position for years, Rodgers, Jennings, Bulaga, Woodson, and until last year, Collins and to some extent Raji. With a breakout performance by Desmond Bishop last year, we know that spectacular play from the inside linebacking position is possible. That could be what’s suddenly driving speculation that Hawk is in a training camp battle to save his starting position (and therein his roster spot).

Since they lost to the Cardinals back in the 2009-10 playoffs, when it became painfully clear that Hawk just did not possess the speed necessary to track down running backs on the sideline, I’ve never been a big fan of the Ohio State product. But Hawk had a productive year in 2010 and the Packers, on a Super Bowl high, invested a multi-year contract in the linebacker and let Nick Barnett go.

Last season, Hawk was consistently blamed for not making enough big plays. When he did have to sit because of injury, Packer fans were treated to some excellent playmaking by his understudy, a rookie, D.J. Smith. He’s 5-11, 239 pounds, and came out of a small school, Appalachian State.

During his unlimited action last year, he had 40-plus tackles and an interception. It will be very interesting to see if Smith gets more snaps than usual during the preseason, especially if it is with the first team. The Packers will likely say it is to give Hawk a rest, but many will view this as a clue that Hawk has a fight on his hands, which is as good a motivator as there is for someone who has already inked his post rookie payday contract.

Aaron Rodgers will be key in the Packers attack against the Lions once again this season. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

In going through the Detroit Lions‘ schedule this year, Sidelion’s Zac Snyder and I exchanged questions and answers about the Packers.

Our Q&A session was recently published on the Fansided.com’s Lions site and is offered up here for your review.

Don’t hesitate to slide on over to Snyder’s excellent site for a plethora of valuable information about the much-improved Lions – or you can take the shortcut and read the Q&A below and then go to Sidelion to see what’s new after you’re done reading.

Detroit Lions 2012 Schedule Preview: Green Bay Packers

Jordy Nelson is just one player who will be looking to take his game one step higher after his breakout season in 2011.

Zachary Thompson of FantasyCPR and I sat down for a Q&A this past week – talking about the Green Bay Packers and what things look like for the coming season.

Geared toward the fantasy fans out there, FantasyCPR has been talking with all 32 NFL Fansided.com blog editors about their teams to get a feel for the best players and how to rank teams and players for the coming season.

The goal of this website is to deliver consistent fantasy analysis to help fantasy players win.

If you have comments or suggestions about the site, contact Fantasy CPR at fantasyCPR@yahoo.com, and follow them on twitter @fantasyCPR.

So, take a trip over to the site for all your fantasy needs and while you’re at it, check out the Packers preview here or scroll down for the full Q&A.

Green Bay Packers – Fantasy Football Preview 2012

Fantasy football leagues are activating across the country and draft dates are being set and obsessed over. Last season, one offense everybody loved owning and a defense they loved playing against was the Green Bay Packers. The Pack are looking to bring back the offense and overhaul the defense. Ray Rivard of Lombardi Ave. was willing to join us and help us get some insider information on the cheeseheads’ outlook for this season.

Zach Thompson, FantasyCPR: The Packers offense was awesome last year. Aaron Rogers emerged as one of the top QB’s in the league to be sure. Is there any reason to think he won’t reduplicate that statistical performance this year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: If Aaron Rodgers doesn’t match or exceed hisperformance of 2011, it will be a huge disappointment. Rodgers has the same weapons coming back with him in 2012 and there isn’t any reason why this team can’t continue to produce huge numbers on the field. In fact, without injuries, you can be sure to see Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson continue to put up 1,000 yard-plus seasons. When those two players have backups like James Jones and Donald Driver behind them – players who could be starters on most other teams - this is one high-powered offense. And it’s all led by Rodgers. His skill and uncanny ability to avoid pressure has made Rodgers a step above the best QBs in the league. I can only see him improve in 2012.

Z: Last year, virtually any Green Bay WR was worth owning just because he was on the same field with Aaron Rodgers? Jordy Nelson made the leap to a top 20 WR. Do you see Randall Cobb or any other receiver emerging this year as a every-week go-to guy?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Many, including myself, see this as a breakout year for Randall Cobb. I believe the league has only seen a scratching of the surface with this receiver. His work on special teams is known, but he will bring much more to the field this year. You will see him on the field more often this season and his touches rise significantly. If the Packers can’t get the ball into his hands at least 5-10 time per game, it will be disappointing. And depending on how much Donald Driver contributes, you might see either Diondre Borel or Tori Gurley make the 53-man roster and make contributions. They are young guys with huge upsides. I would also like to say that tight end Jermichael Finley will work to improve his play this year and will continue to stretch the field for a
Packers offense that will be difficult to stop.

Z: While we’re on receivers, was Jordy Nelson’s breakout a fluke or do you think he’ll match or exceed those numbers this year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Jordy Nelson is no fluke. His teammates like to joke that he’s the white guy on the team who actually has speed and jumping ability. Nelson gets open and his ability to accelerate past defensive backs is fast becoming his biggest strength. Simply put – he’s a stud who can beat anyone matched up against him.

Couple that with the fact that he can catch the ball over the middle when needed and you’ve got the complete package. His only knock is that he drops too many passes. However, his success overshadows that. If you have a chance to take Jordy Nelson in your fantasy draft, don’t pass him up. He will score lots of points for you.

Z: What about the running game? Do you see one back emerging as a feature-back or will it continue to be a time-share? If you think it’sa time-share, what Packer running back would you draft to be on your fantasy team?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: The Packers running game is the wild card for any fantasy team. The Packers are a pass-first team, that’s not a secret. However, the Packers have not been totally incompetent on the ground either. Ryan Grant is gone, and the Packers will have two backs, James Starks and Alex Green, coming back from significant knee injuries. That is a concern. However, Starks is being looked to as the featured back heading into his third year. Green had a huge upside before his injury, so how he comes back is a huge question mark. He could be one of those players who comes out of nowhere to make a big mark, but I wouldn’t count on it.

Z: Is there a player on the Packers offense you think will have a breakout year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Randall Cobb, hands down. I feel the Packers will call his number more this year and give him the opportunity to show his skills. He was limited last year on offense because of the team’s depth, but with an aging Donald Driver still on the team I see Cobb being more of a factor.

Z: Green Bay’s focus this offseason appears to have been on rebuilding and strengthening their defense, specifically pass defense. Do you think they did enough? And who do you think makes the biggest impact among the new additions?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Defense was the focus in both free agency and the draft – and rightly so. Ted Thompson did a great job in bringing in players who should contribute immediately – namely Nick Perry, Jerel Worthy, and Casey Hayward. I see all three of these players fitting in immediately with the defense, but I see Worthy as the player who will bring the most to the team in the early going. The Packers’ biggest hole last season was their defensive front. They couldn’t stop teams because they couldn’t pressure the QB.

The loss of Cullen Jenkins was bigger than most thought. With the addition of Worthy, the Packers will add to a line that already includes BJ Raji and Ryan Pickett. Though suspended for eight games, Anthony Hargrove will also help the team the second half of the season – if he makes the roster.

Z: Last one, give me your realistic expectation for the Packers this season, and then your perfect scenario. What is the one key for them taking home the Lombardi Trophy again this year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Realistically the team wins at least 12 games -they will need that many wins to take the division. Ideally, they win 14 or 15 again this year and destroy the competition in the Playoffs
en route to another Super Bowl championship.

However, to do that, the team has got to make large improvements on the defensive side of the football. I think management has put the pieces in place for that to happen. Now it’s up to the coaching staff to put these players in the right schemes to make it happen. It’s funny talking about defense being the difference for a team like the
Packers. While the offense will continue to do what it does best, it will be the defense that will be the difference in the fight for a championship. If the defense doesn’t come through, the team will be left watching like they did last year.

May 23, 2012; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) throws a pass during organized team activities at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-US PRESSWIRE

FantasyCPR, our fansided.com brethren, is hosting a series of team previews that should interest all National Football League fans.

They began the series with a Q&A with Keith Myers of 12th Man Rising, another fine site under the fansided.com umbrella.

Fantasy fans and fans in general will be interested in following this series diligently put together by FantasyCPR’s Zach Thompson.

This particular posting will be of interest to Green Bay Packers fans because it focuses on the Chicago Bears.

Anyway, you can go directly to the site here or you may just continue reading the posting below.

Chicago Bears – Fantasy Football 2012 Preview

The MLB All-Star break is always a good time to start your fantasy football preparations. We’ll have plenty of coverage  here at FantasyCPR leading up to preseason and  the highly-anticipated kickoff to the regular season.

Today we’re joined by Boomer from Bear Goggles On who helps us preview what we can expect from “da Bears” as they head into a tough season in the ultra-competetive NFC North.

Zach Thompson, FantasyCPR: Thanks again, Mike, for helping us with our season previews. We’ll start with the obvious one… The Bears looked good last year and appeared to be on their way to the playoffs before injuries completely derailed their season. Should we expect any lingering effects of either Matt Forte or Jay Cutler’s injury? And will the Bears O-line be able to keep Cutler upright

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: I don’t expect any lingering effects from the injuries to Forte and Cutler.  By all accounts, Jay has been zipping the ball around during OTA’s, showing no signs of damage from the broken thumb that ended his 2011 campaign.  Even though Forte has not been in camp with his contract status up in the air, he is always in top shape and I expect this season to be no different.

The offensive line question is another story.  The Bears didn’t make any significant moves this offseason, either in free agency or through the draft, to address one of their most glaring weaknesses.  This one still scares me a bit.

Z: Will Jay Cutler be a top 10 QB statistically this year?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On:  There’s no reason to believe Cutler can’t get to that upper echelon of quarterbacks now that the Bears finally put some weapons around him and scrapped Mike Martz’s offensive playbook filled with 7-step drops that the Bears offensive line couldn’t block.

Z: I’ve been surprised at the lack of love given to the newly-acquired Brandon Marshall. Do you think he’ll be a top-10 receiver this year?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: No question.  Marshall and Cutler were an elite duo in Denver and I expect them to pick up where they left off.  The Bears added Jeremy Bates and quarterbacks coach and de facto passing coordinator, so hopes are high for Marshall in the Bears offense.  He’ll get a ton of targets and should catch 90+ balls if things go according to plan.

Z: Would you rather have Brandon Marshall on your fantasy team or Hakeem Nicks?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: I’d take Marshall since I think he’s a better receiver and since there are fewer weapons around Marshall compared to Nicks, who has to compete with Victor Cruz for touches.

Z: Brandon Marshall or Jordy Nelson?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: Marshall.  Nelson is 2^nd or 3^rd option in Green Bay.

Z: Brandon Marshall or Steve Smith

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: Marshall. I think the Panthers and Cam Newton come back down to earth this season.

Z: Just one more, Brandon Marshall or A.J. Green.

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: Marshall since he’s got a stronger track record than Green, who might suffer a sophomore slump in 2012.

Z: I agree with you on all of those. I might consider Smith over him, but I want to see what the Panthers are doing during camp, but other than that I’m liking Marshall over all those guys. Who do you think will be the #2 wide receiver in Chicago?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On:  That’s a great question.  Everyone in Bears camp has been pumping up Devin Hester now that he’ll be moved into the slot.  I think that Earl Bennett will emerge as the #2 in terms of targets.  Look for Alshon Jeffery to be a red zone threat as the season progresses.

Z: Will the Bears use the TE much as a receiver and if so who do you think will emerge as Cutler’s favorite target in that role?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: Kellen Davis has been getting some preseason hype as a super sleeper TE for the Bears.  He’s 6’7”, so he should be able to get some red zone TD’s.

Z: Matt Forte seemed to wear down a little at the end of the year even before the injury. Who will serve as the Bears backup RB and will they use him in any kind of a rotation?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: I expect Forte and Bush to be sort of a lightening and thunder attack.  For all his success that Forte has had, he hasn’t been good in short yardage and red zone.  That’s where Bush will excel.

Z: The Bears D/ST is always one of the top units in all of fantasy football. Do you think they’ll take a step forward or backward this year?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: Their defense is definitely on the decline with their top stars on the wrong side of 30, but with a Lovie Smith defense, it’s always about takeaways.  The Bears will continue to be opportunistic and should still be a top fantasy producer.  When you add Devin Hester and special teams to the mix, I think they’ll still be a top fantasy option.

Z: Last one, give me your realistic expectation for the Bears this season, and then your perfect scenario. How far can Lovie Smith and Da Bears go?

Mike Burzawa, Bear Goggles On: Realistically, I have the Bears at 10 or 11 wins this season and making a strong run in the playoffs. In a perfect scenario, Cutler stays healthy and he and Marshall live up to the hype while the defense gets another year out of Urlacher, Briggs, Peppers and Tillman and the Bears return to Super Bowl glory.