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Published - Friday, December 05, 2008

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Dave Myers: Packers have best chance at division title


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Now they’ve got ’em right where they want ’em.

The Green Bay Packers are in perfect position to claim yet another NFC North crown.
Yes, I’m talking about the same Green Bay Packers that just suffered a heart-breaking loss to the Carolina Panthers on the heels of a nationally televised 51-29 beat down at the hands of the New Orleans Saints.

Sure it would be nice if the Packers weren’t sitting in third place, two games behind Minnesota.

Sure it would be nice if the Packers weren’t so banged up at safety that they were pleading with Chuck Cecil to come out of retirement.

Sure it would be nice if the Packers’ punting game were more reliable than a Fiat in Wisconsin this time of year.

But the NFC North isn’t nice. And this year, it doesn’t take a nice — or even terribly accomplished — team to claim the title.

If you look at the three teams in the division (yes, I said three. There is no way that mess in Detroit can be considered an actual NFL team), it’s far easier to imagine a scenario where the Packers take the crown than any other team.

We won’t even get into the Perry Mason-type lawyering that would be required for the Vikings to keep the heart — or at least the midsection — of their defense off the “Suspended gone fishing” list.

Without Kevin and Pat Williams, who are large enough to actually live up to the Purple People Eaters nickname, the Vikings are more apt to be spending January working on golf plans than game plans.

It should be a two-team race between the Packers and the Bears and with a Dec. 22 meeting at Soldier Field looming, you have to like the Packers’ chances.

The Bears do have a one-game lead over the Packers and three of their remaining four games at home. Not a bad position to be in considering what’s going on in Minnesota.

But the Bears on offense are about as exciting as a Lawrence Welk marathon, and the last time the Bears’ defense scared anyone Denny Green was reminding us that the Bears were who he thought they were.

As crazy as it sounds, the NFC North title is truly there for the Packers to take. Especially when you factor in the tiebreaker significance of head-to-head matchups.

It was the Packers who hammered the Bears 37-3 in Week 11.

It was the Packers who ran for 200 yards against the Bears. To reiterate, that is 200 yards rushing from a team whose coach seemingly would rather remove his own spleen with a soup spoon than establish a running game.

Pair that kind of success on the ground with far and away the division’s best quarterback (Aaron Rodgers) and receiving corps (Greg Jennings, Donald Driver, Donald Lee, etc.) and you have a recipe for another mauling of the Bears and potentially a division title.

If we are to assume that in addition to losing to the Packers, the Bears won’t be able to sweep Jacksonville, New Orleans and Houston; the door is wide open for Green Bay.

The Packers in turn would need to at least split their games with Houston and Jacksonville before pummeling Chicago.

Which would bring us to the season finale against a Detroit team that seems to have quit playing somewhere around the time the leaves started changing colors.

I’d say the Packers have ’em right where they want ’em.
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really? wrote on Dec 8, 2008 3:02 PM:

" Still waiting on that retraction.... "

Lotsof luck wrote on Dec 6, 2008 8:29 AM:

" In a few weeks the Packers season will be over. They will end the year with a disappointing losing season. Ted Thompson, Mark Murphy and Mike McCarthy's master plan will be a total flop. Normally it is not a smart idea to blow up a championship team just for ego, and this is no exception. Poor personnel moves and play calling has been the death of this team all year. This is not where the Packer fans wanted the Packer team to be when this year started. "

GOD_HIMSELF wrote on Dec 6, 2008 6:25 AM:

" real glory days, let me throw some numbers at ya.
favre: 20 td 14 int 2700 yards and a passer rating of 90
rodgers: 20 td (4 more running) 10 int 2900 yards and a passer rating of 91
so unless i have something wrong, rodgers is better in every category than old benedict brett. i guess there is always the favre lovers "magical" he somehow makes everyone better, or the team would just win cause he's standing on the sidelines arguement, but i don't buy that crap. rodgers is better than favre. period. i know it really bothers the favre lovers/tthaters, they would have loved to see rodgers fall on his face or get hurt, but it never happened. HE'S THE REAL DEAL. "

PackAttack2020 wrote on Dec 6, 2008 1:02 AM:

" garvi: you must have been at a different section of the river...where I was, the Packer fans were throwing grenades across the river at the vikes fans...the vikes fans threw the pins back...and smiled proudly...for 8 seconds... "

PackAttack2020 wrote on Dec 6, 2008 12:54 AM:

" fisherman: I lost a lot of respect for you today...you're PROUD of those idiots?! This type of argument is going to ruin the league...there is no way the league should have to tell these ADULTS and PROFESSIONALS EVERYTHING they SHOULDNT do...wow... "

PackAttack2020 wrote on Dec 6, 2008 12:51 AM:

" free: take your pills...your split personality is getting the best of you...free_speech
wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:42 PM:
" Like you need them this week anyway. This just delays the inevitable.
Honestly though, I think the Vikings have the best chance of advancing in the playoffs. "free_speech
wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:23 PM:
" F both packer fans and viking fans. The Bears will win out, go 10-6 as I predicted, and win the division. You heard it here first! " ....AND THE CONTRADICTION CONTINUES... "

realglorydays wrote on Dec 5, 2008 10:37 PM:

" If Brett Favre had not been traded, the Packers would have already WON the division! "

Thompson's Ego wrote on Dec 5, 2008 8:19 PM:

" I take full credit for this entire season. My ultimate goal is to build a perennial 0-16 Packer team, just to show you all that TED THOMPSON is in total control! You are powerless to stop me, so just accept your fate. I have the full support of President Murphy and the Executive Committee, as they are willing participants in the conspiracy. If you try to stop me, I will use my Sith Master Force Lightning to destroy you ALL...!!!!! "

free_speech wrote on Dec 5, 2008 4:57 PM:

" I picked the Vikings to win the division before the season started. If the didn't start Jackson they would have it clinched by now. "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 4:04 PM:

" Thanks Free-speech
Nice to see someone see realty on this board.
These packer guys could sit here all day and tell you how the pack is still a super bowl quality team this year. "

free_speech wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:42 PM:

" Like you need them this week anyway. This just delays the inevitable.

Honestly though, I think the Vikings have the best chance of advancing in the playoffs. "

free_speech wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:39 PM:

" Oh no! The owners are so pissed they are voiding the collective bargaining agreement and stopping the season! These steriod masking apes really set them off! Nice job. I also heard the Vikings owner isn't invited to the NFL Xmas party for dissin the other owners. "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:31 PM:

" I am glad the Williams ate all the lollipops because they are going to need more this season. Check out the link fellas. They get to play!!!
Bout time someone takes on the NFL. Way to fight fellas. Now win out!!!

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8892862?MSNHPHMA "

free_speech wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:23 PM:

" The williams's ate all the damn lollipops! "

free_speech wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:23 PM:

" F both packer fans and viking fans. The Bears will win out, go 10-6 as I predicted, and win the division. You heard it here first! "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 3:22 PM:

" Did you hear the Vikings have only four more weeks to hand out lollipops and as* whoopins and they are all out of lollipops!!!! "

CounterPoint wrote on Dec 5, 2008 2:07 PM:

" Okay, Garvi. I see the point you were making. Actually I would agree that Rogers is a better QB than Ferotte. Cute joke, by the way. I have to tell you I am impressed and surprised by Rogers' durability. The way the Vikes beat him up play after play I was impressed he stayed out there. "

Garvi wrote on Dec 5, 2008 1:44 PM:

" Did ya hear about the war between Packer fans and the Viking fans? The Viking fans were throwing hand grenade's across the river and the Packer fans were pulling the pins and throwing them back. "

Garvi wrote on Dec 5, 2008 1:39 PM:

" I guess I have to spell it out for all the people looking through purple glass's. The point I was responding to was this whole line "I like how you dorks think Rodgers is a better QB then Frerotte. He is 7-3 on the season, he is much better then Rodgers. Plus we seen how Rodgers plays in the snow and cold. Remember last week. "
Looking through all the stats Frerotte is ranked in the bottom half of the NFL,and Rogers is ranked in the top half (top 10 for most) with QB ratings of Frerotte = 26th and Rogers = 8th. Now is Rogers the reason for the losses, NO (special teams and defense, YES)Is Frerotte the reason for the wins NO (defense and Peterson/running game YES)So my point is Rogers IS a better QB than Frerotte. "

really? wrote on Dec 5, 2008 1:18 PM:

" I love how he picks on the Bears offense, lets use facts and compare.

Green Bay points scored on OFFENSE - 271

Chicago - 246

Minnesota - 266

Wow, such a huge difference there DAVE !!!

And you wonder why we think Packer fans have no logic...case in point, this JOKER !!! "

kbg23 wrote on Dec 5, 2008 1:08 PM:

" Division winners?? Really - are you serious?!? This team has single handily been boughten down by Thompson's ego. I have had three people offer me FREE tickets for Sunday's game. Free! Last weekend wasn't even a sellout! I guess that goes to show who made the money here. Better luck next year! Or when Teddy is gone. "

GOD_HIMSELF wrote on Dec 5, 2008 12:59 PM:

" i understand that, and wouldn't argue that he is the best in the game. the point i was trying to make is, felching pro claims forgot is better than rodgers because he has more wins this season. if that's the case, peterson can't be the best back according to felching pro because there are numerous runningbacks on teams with better records. "

PackAttack2020 wrote on Dec 5, 2008 12:56 PM:

" wiggles: you have to admit, your posts have at least LOOKED more intelligent. The content may still lack sense, but at least cosmetically they are improved....ha ha ha...hey, I am sittin by the curb waiting for that parade to start...what time tomorrow again? "

CounterPoint wrote on Dec 5, 2008 12:44 PM:

" God...one player does not make a team. He is, however, the best back in the league. Most Packer fans would agree. Just because he is the best back does guarantee a win every game. "

blueshawke wrote on Dec 5, 2008 12:38 PM:

" i like the way this guy writes. period. "spleen..." **cracking up...** nice. "

GOD_HIMSELF wrote on Dec 5, 2008 12:31 PM:

" aren't there quite a few backs in the leauge that play on teams with better record than the queens have? so by your own "logic" peterson can't be the best right? "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 12:03 PM:

" Garvi,
Your little posted stat only proves on thing. Packers can't run the ball. Your QB completed more passes than the Vikings attempted. Look at completion percentage though. And oops, the Vikings won last week huge!!!!! "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:58 AM:

" Hey Garvi,
Did the Pack win last week or not? I can't remember. I do remember Rodgers throwing a game losing interception though.

Frerotte has a few more notches in the win colum this year then your boy Rodgers. "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:54 AM:

" G-H
He leads the league in yards so he is absolutely the best back in the league. If he stays healthy he may be the best back to ever play the game by the time his career is over.

What kind of question is that? Most people would agree, even the Packer fans. "

free_speech wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:51 AM:

" TT is out right now searching Mom's basements all of across the country looking for that next superstar. He doesn't need the draft. Look at your new kicker! "

packer backer wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:44 AM:

" I am with Rock on this one. The Trib had Dave write this to get the Viking and Bear fans cranked up and post, so the Packer fans can get all worked up. What are they going to write today? That TT is a putz? That minnie-me Mikey can not coach? Not today, anyway. So they gave ol Davey a few Vodka tonics and had him dream this up. Hey it's working.

The Packers should lose, so maybe, just oh please maybe, the top brass will be fired. (Not likely) and the Pack can start over next year with a new D that can stop someone. A O-line that can block. Special teams that can punt, kick and tackle. I know a long wish list, but it is the Holiday Season. "

CounterPoint wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:41 AM:

" The difference, Garvi, is the Vikes won 34-17 and the Packers lost. Whenever you are winning a game, you tend to run more and pass less to eat up the clock, dropping your passing numbers down. When behind, you pass more trying to make something happen. Many of Rogers best numbers have been put up during losses. "

GOD_HIMSELF wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:37 AM:

" felching pro, would you say peterson is the best back in the league? "

Rock wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:25 AM:

" A few things... Cataract, I'm generally a negative thinker, or I like to call myself, a realistic thinker, when it comes to the Pack. Its just my way of nature, but I'm also a home owner and have a solid, well-paying job (of course I'll never turn down some cash or a tank of gas from Mom!!). I too find the article humorous though. He makes good points about the Bears and possibly the Vikes, but some of you nailed it by mentioning the Pack need to win out. Yeah, it could and maybe should happen given the talent they have, but come on, lets look at this realistically! "

Garvi wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:18 AM:

" Nice line bone head "Plus we seen how Rodgers plays in the snow and cold. Remember last week. "
Rogers = 29-45 for 298yds 3-tds 1-int
Forgot = 16-25 for 210yds (one = 99) 1-td 1-int.
Are you wearing all that new purple you bought? "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 11:07 AM:

" Hey G-H
I was wondering when you were going to relate back to then and than. Man you need a life. QB stats can be padded, just like McCarthy is doing for Rodgers. Final stat comes down to wins. Who has more this year. If you think the Vikings are a joke, let us know what you really think of the packers this year. They are a much better team right? 5-7 compared to 7-5. Frerotte is old compared to Rodgers so I agree with your GM statement. Come on though, Rodgers can't win games. Your running game is terrible, and your receivers can't catch when the ball is thrown in the dirt in front of them or behind them. Get a life dude and look at reality. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention your defense and special teams as well. All around packers are a terrible team. "

PackAttack2020 wrote on Dec 5, 2008 10:52 AM:

" cj: you gotta bet the Media AND the NFL would love to see that too...drama drama drama...they would make it the hatfields and the McCoys...what a circus THAT would be...it would be a blast to see "

GOD_HIMSELF wrote on Dec 5, 2008 10:49 AM:

" i love how the felching pro throws around words like moron and idiot while failing to understand the difference between then and than. "

GOD_HIMSELF wrote on Dec 5, 2008 10:42 AM:

" didn't the lions beat you once already this year, till the officials helped you out with that bogus pass interference call? arizona is a dome team, so are the queens, what's your point supposed to be? as far as rodgers being better than forgot, i doubt there is a GM in the game that would trade rodgers for gus. ohh yeah, the giants, they can probably beat you playing their third string. the queens are a joke, and they will be exposed over the last four games. 0-4 won't win the division for you. "

fishingpro wrote on Dec 5, 2008 10:35 AM:

" I cannot understand why the tribune would even let this moron post such a idiotic article. So what this tool is saying is that if the Williams get suspended the Vikes are over. Well let me tell you something packer whackers. the Vikings play the Lions this weekend and Cardinals next. Cardinals are a dome team and then the Vikings finish out their last two games at home. Giants will have it locked and play their first string maybe the first two series. I like how you dorks think Rodgers is a better QB then Frerotte. He is 7-3 on the season, he is much better then Rodgers. Plus we seen how Rodgers plays in the snow and cold. Remember last week. "

CJ wrote on Dec 5, 2008 9:37 AM:

" Everyone has to have a dream you go Dave! Somehow if the Cowboys decided to fudge another playoff game this year or even make it in I was rooting for a Pack vs. Jets Superbowl. "

Scott wrote on Dec 5, 2008 9:19 AM:

" This is such a funny article. ESPN will be contacting you soon to write for them. "

RonaldReagan wrote on Dec 5, 2008 8:26 AM:

" I am not saying a win over Arizona is a lock. But I am saying that a 7-5 Viking team has a better chance of beating a winless Detroit team and a 7-5 Arizona team, than a 5-7 team finishing the season 4-0.

That is what I am saying.

And for the record, just because Atlanta outclassed the Packers doesn't mean the Vikings can't beat them either.

You guys are screwed face it. "

Mr. Bigglesworth wrote on Dec 5, 2008 8:11 AM:

" Totally agree with Myers on this one. RR..you think the queens over Arizona is a lock for a win? Cmon man. Watch out for your spelling today fellas....HOLIER THAN THOU 2020 will call you out to make himself feel better. "

cataractjack wrote on Dec 5, 2008 7:42 AM:

" Great written article for the fact that it is positive. If you are not a Packer fan of course you will not like this article. A Packer fan will always think positive. Until their team is officially out of it. How many championship would Lombardi have won thinking negative. Being a glass half empty guy. Most of the Packer negative thinkers live in their Mom's basement, living off Mom and the thought of getting a job would be out of the questtion. "

free_speech wrote on Dec 5, 2008 7:18 AM:

" What a joke. ha ha ha. It's nice to start off a friday with a good laugh! "

GOD_HIMSELF wrote on Dec 5, 2008 6:24 AM:

" this is the first article this guy has written that makes any sense. the packers will win the division. probably by a couple games. "

Eddie wrote on Dec 5, 2008 6:06 AM:

" With the way the Packers have given away so many games this year, I cannot believe that anyone would predict that they will win their last four games and win the division. Are the Packers going to magically turn into a dominant team and win out? Unlikely to happen - they still have the same players who have played extremely inconsistantly all year long. They could crush Houston this Sunday and then flop in Jacksonville and Chicago. I have great hopes that the Packers will win out, but I'm not wagering any money on it. "

RonaldReagan wrote on Dec 5, 2008 5:59 AM:

" I didn't know they had a comedy section added to the newspaper....that is a good addition.

How uneducated do you have to be to wrtie with 4 games left that theteam with a 2 game lead doesn't have a shot at it and that it is a "2 team race"? What a joke. When have the Packers proved they can win 4 games in a row this season? The Vikings play Detroit and Arizona for the love of god.

This Packer apologist is drinking the kool aid that is for sure. "


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