Green Bay Packers: The morning after

Julius Peppers

Quotes from Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

If there is one defensive player who not only made a huge impact Sunday, but seems to have become the player the defense needed to turn the corner, it’s been Julius Peppers.

His interception and pick-six of Mark Sanchez not only raised the roof, but clearly placed him in the “man among boys” category. He swatted away Eagles players en route to the end zone on the pick-six like he was swatting flies.

His level of play and contributions to this defense has provided a new bar for those around him to match. Clay Matthews has stepped up; Micah Hyde has been a man on a mission; rookie Ha Ha Clinton-Dix is flying around; and even players like Letroy Guion seem to be playing above themselves – because of what Peppers brings to the table.

Here’s what Peppers said after Sunday’s game:

"“The standard is to go out and play well and play at a high level against everybody. Good offense, bad offense, it doesn’t matter who it is, we want to have an impact on the game early.”"

Here is what he said about Sunday’s INT:

"“These are the kinds of plays that I always envisioned myself making, and these are the kinds of plays I always told myself — if I was able to play in a defense like this — I could make those plays. So I’m finally doing it and I’m having a lot of fun with it.”"

Peppers is now the only player in NFL history with 100-plus sacks and four interceptions returned for touchdowns.

"“I’m just playing a game,” he said. “I’m playing my game. I’m not stressing. Guys go out and make plays. It kind of takes the pressure off me. Not that I’m feeling pressure, but you don’t need to force anything here. You just play your game, stay patient and the plays come to you.”"

Peppers has 30 tackles (17 solo), five sacks, six pass breakups, two interceptions (for 101 yards, two TDs), two forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.

Here is what Mike Neal said about Peppers’ influence:

"“God’s gift (from) heaven, man. Promise you. … Smart, talented, great player. His interceptions speak for themselves. He gets to the ball and he makes plays.”"

Mike Daniels added:

"“He’s one of the great ones. I can’t explain it. He’s one of the great ones — and he’s demonstrating why he is. At his age, to still be this dynamic player, is just amazing.”"