Green Bay Packers: In need of some ‘common sense’

Head coach Mike McCarthy and general manger Ted Thompson watch workouts during a Green Bay Packers rookie orientation weekend. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports photograph

On this date, Jan. 10, 1776, Thomas Paine anonymously published his influential pamphlet, “Common Sense,” which argued for American independence from British rule. Thomas Paine provided a very convincing argument for independence by promoting a break with history. Common Sense discussing the future in a way that forces the reader to make an immediate choice. It offers a solution for Americans disgusted with and alarmed at the threat of tyranny.

Ok, without getting too political, Thomas Paine inspired the patriots to declare independence from Britain.

How does this relate to the Green Bay Packers?

Well, it’s a long shot but because of the nature of events that have or have not transpired in the Packers’ organization, I think it’s relatable.

In Common Sense, Paine stated “Why is it that we hesitate? From Britain we can expect nothing but ruin. If she is admitted to the government of America again, this continent will not be worth living in.”

Paine’s Common Sense was written to rouse the populace into an argument for independence. He questions whether there really is a good reason to stay quiet about the need for change or independence. He paints a picture of the reality that would exist if America would remain under British rule.

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis makes a touchdown catch against Green Bay Packers strong safety Morgan Burnett and inside linebacker A.J. Hawk during the second half of the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lambeau Field. Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports photograph

I think this is pretty relatable to the Green Bay Packers right now. If the Green Bay Packers remain under the defensive coordination of Dom Capers, don’t expect a better outcome next year. Sure, most of our losses came when we didn’t have Aaron Rodgers but you need a defense that can perform independent from whomever is under center. My gosh, they gave up 40 points to Detroit even when they forced four turnovers.

That makes no sense.

The Packers were very fortunate to have made the playoffs with the record we did of 8-7-1. That is not a playoff record. What a defense does is it gives the offense a chance to win the game no matter who is at quarterback.

If no changes are made, don’t expect a playoff berth next year. In fact, if no changes are made you can pencil the Detroit Lions into the playoffs. They’re the real threat in the NFC North Division, not the Green Bay Packers. The Green Bay Packers will not have a defense that is feared in the NFL.

Paine also stated “To say, they will never attempt it again is idle and visionary, we thought so at the repeal of the stamp-act, yet a year or two undeceived us.” Here, he states that the British cannot be trusted to be fair with the colonies. He points out they have imposed unfair taxes and acts”

Although beer and other concession prices are high, the Packers or the fans are not being taxed unfairly. But, Packers Nation, this organization has the possibility to make some great decisions this off-season. But, they have the potential to also do nothing.

Ted Thompson rarely makes moves in the free agent market. It hasn’t been necessary in the past, which is OK. This off-season, however, it will be vital to look into the defensive free agent pool. Who should we look at exactly? I’m not entirely sure yet as my life doesn’t allow me to carefully study the free agent pool for hours.

Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Thomas Paine stressed an independence from British rule. Sort of a fresh start, so to say.

I think that’s exactly what the Packers’ defense needs. An NFL defense is a package deal. You cannot have an effective defensive coordinator with a terrible defensive pool, and you can’t have a bad defensive coordinator and expect a great defense.

By no means am I calling for someone’s head or am I looking to completely overhaul the Green Bay organization. This organization is one of greatness. What do you think the “G” on the helmet stands for? Greatness, of course.

Mediocrity will go nowhere in the NFL, and that is where the Green Bay defense is right now.

It’s common sense.