pack_in_black
Cheesehead
I hope that's all it is. I do know that Mr Wynn needs to get his overfed butt onto the field, though. I'm pullin for the guy, but he won't effing practice!!
Official Training Camp Reports Thread 2
- Thread starter TOPHAT
- Start date
I hope that's all it is. I do know that Mr Wynn needs to get his overfed butt onto the field, though. I'm pullin for the guy, but he won't effing practice!!
THURSDAY SESSIONS: JSONLNE REVIEWS
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=645112
Thursday camp report
THUMBS UP
Regardless of which kicker wins a roster spot, the Packers are going to be in pretty good shape with their kickoffs. Last year, Dave Rayner tied for 11th in the league in touchbacks with 11 and 10th in average distance with a 65.1-yard mark. Rookie Mason Crosby appears to have every bit of leg that Rayner does and tends to get a little more height on his kickoffs. More than half of his kickoffs at Colorado were touchbacks, although kicking in the high altitude certainly helped. On Thursday night, with very little wind, Rayner drove his first kickoff to the 1 and his second 6 yards into the end zone. Crosby hit his first to the 8 and his second to the goal line. Punter Ryan Dougherty even got into the act. After mis-hitting a ball that landed at the 21, he drove his next one to the goal line. Rayner outperformed the others on onside kicks, popping two in the air that the coverage team would have had a good chance to recover in live play.
THUMBS DOWN
Apparently, pleasantly warm weather with a minimum of mosquitoes doesn't appeal to Packers fans. The crowds have been dwindling for the night practices and attendance Thursday evening looked to be well below 1,000. In the early part of camp, the fences were lined six or seven deep, but the luster has worn off. It's hard to believe the nationally televised Dallas-Indianapolis game was so interesting that it lured Packers fans away from the great outdoors to the comfort of their living rooms. Practice began at 6:30 p.m. and ended at 8:40 p.m., so having to get up to go to work the next morning doesn't hold much water as an excuse. Maybe the Packers have to come to the reality that they aren't the attraction they once were, especially when it comes to practicing under the lights. At least there wasn't much of a traffic jam when practice came to an end.
INJURY REPORT
Wide receiver Greg Jennings (hip) and left tackle Chad Clifton (knee) both returned for the evening practice in pads.
Tight end Clark Harris (ankle), tackle Orrin Thompson (back), defensive tackle Justin Harrell (groin) and nose tackle Ryan Pickett (knee) returned for both practices.
Cornerbacks Charles Woodson (hamstring) and Al Harris (back) missed both practices and probably won't play Saturday.
Safety Aaron Rouse (ankle) dropped out of the night practice after getting hurt during kickoff return and receiver Robert Ferguson had a bag of ice on his right hip at the end of practice.
As is customary, end Aaron Kampman, tight end Bubba Franks, linebacker Abdul Hodge, Clifton and Ferguson were held out of the morning practice. All are on once-a-day schedules because of previous injuries.
ODDS AND ENDS
Guard Travis Leffew was called over to the defensive side to take two turns during the one-on-one pass rush drill, prompting one of the offensive linemen to yell out, "Traitor." On his first pass-rush attempt, Leffew, who hasn't played on defense since high school, left guard Adam Stenavich in the dust. Guard Tony Palmer had a little better luck with Leffew on his second turn.
Crosby edged ahead of Rayner in the field goal battle by hitting seven of eight for the day, including a 52-yarder. His only miss was from 37 yards (wide left). Rayner was 5 for 8, missing to the left from 49, 32 and 52. For the week, Rayner is 20 for 26 and Crosby is 23 for 27.
Safety Charlie Peprah was on the wrong end of a collision with 233-pound running back Corey White during a team run drill. White plowed over Peprah on his way through the secondary.
Harrell had his best day thus far in one-on-one pass rush drills. He won his first three turns, slipping Palmer with a quick inside move and then beating rookie free agent Pat Murray with a bull rush and a rip move.
Defensive end Cullen Jenkins continues to dominate during the pass rush drills. He blew past guard Daryn Colledge on one turn and then drew what arguably would have been a holding penalty on another one.
Cornerback Frank Walker had an interception near the end zone during a defensive team drill against the scout team, but he fumbled afterward. Cornerback Tramon Williams recovered the ball in the end zone. Quarterback Ingle Martin, who was leading the simulated Pittsburgh offense, threw the pass.
Wide receiver Chris Francies had one of the nicest catches of the evening when he came back for a ball and snatched it high out of the air.
Running back Vernand Morency continues to stand around practice with a jersey and pants on, which is unusual for injured players. He still is a week or two away from being cleared to practice because of a right knee injury. He works out in the Don Hutson Center during a portion of practice.
SCHEDULE FRIDAY
The Packers will have a walk-through in Lambeau Field that will be closed to the public and reporters. They play their first exhibition game Saturday night against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. Their next practice open to the public will start at 2 p.m. Monday.
______________________________________________________________
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=645080
Notes: Ferguson accepts role with resignation Relegated to special
If injuries were less a part of his history and receptions more a part of his résumé, Green Bay Packers wide receiver Robert Ferguson would have a legitimate beef with his role in the exhibition opener Saturday at Pittsburgh. Six-year veterans with 26 starts under their belts aren't supposed to be assigned to virtually every special teams unit for games that don't count. But that's where Ferguson finds himself this week. He hasn't come to peace with the fact the Packers seem to be carving out more of a role for him on special teams than at receiver and probably never will....Ferguson is in a Catch-22 of sorts. It would help him earn a roster spot if he could prove himself at wide receiver, but playing on both coverage units and both return units will tax him such that he might be at a disadvantage with the other receivers.
But Ferguson got himself into this position by missing 21 of his last 80 games because of injury and twice getting outplayed by a younger receiver (Javon Walker in 2004 and Greg Jennings in '06) when the starting job was his. Instead of having the comfort of just working on his receiving skills, he is having to prove himself all over again. Currently, he's battling for one of the last two receiver spots behind Donald Driver, Jennings and rookie James Jones. It's a crowded field with Shaun Bodiford, Ruvell Martin, David Clowney and Carlyle Holiday among his competition. "I do have some things to prove," Ferguson said.
During the off-season, coach Mike McCarthy told Ferguson that special teams was going to be a full-time endeavor for him again and that it would be a good way to enhance his chances of making the team. Ferguson accepted his assignment, but not with much glee and not with the acceptance that this would be his primary role. "It's not (ideal), but it's the NFL," Ferguson said. "You do what have to do to keep your job. When an opportunity comes, you make the most of it. I'd rather be in the Pro Bowl as a receiver (than special teams). But that window is getting real small, so I'm trying to capitalize while I can, while I got 10 toes and 10 fingers."
Marathon man
The Packers might have just three healthy halfbacks for the Steelers game Saturday, which means rookie Brandon Jackson will be handling a good portion of the work. Ideally, the Packers would like to work in a rotation of all their backs during the game, but their desire to see Jackson, their second-round pick and leader out of the gate for the starting job, will be fully satisfied. "We certainly need to get a good look at Brandon Jackson and see what he can do," offensive coordinator Joe Philbin said. "The way the depth chart is, that's not going to be a problem." The Packers probably will have only three backs Saturday because Vernand Morency (knee) and P.J. Pope (knee) are both out indefinitely and rookie DeShawn Wynn (thigh) looks doubtful after sitting out both practices.
The coaches got a big scare during the morning practice when running back Noah Herron went down in a heap after colliding with a pass defender. He was down for a while, but it turned out he had been hit in the throat and only needed time to regain his wind. Jackson will start and play through the first half and Herron will probably get a lot of early time also, especially on passing downs because the Steelers like to blitz and the Packers need to protect quarterback Brett Favre. Jackson had protection issues early in camp and this will be a major test for him.
Blitzburgh
Jackson won't be the only one under the gun Saturday. The offensive line will be facing a 3-4 defense that blitzed on nine of its first 10 snaps in the exhibition opener against New Orleans on Sunday. A year ago, the Packers faced a similar situation against San Diego, and their young offensive line collapsed under the pressure. "Looking back now, we're able to learn a lot from last year, but this year we spent a little more time preparing," center Scott Wells said. "First game, most time people don't (blitz that much). It's kind of unusual." One group that is excitedly anticipating the Steelers bringing it is the receivers. If the offensive line can handle its assignment, the receivers will have plenty of room to operate if they get the ball. "Let them blitz," Driver said. "They have to watch out for us. I think everybody's hungry. You kind of get happy when it's man-to-man."
Short yardage
McCarthy said the No. 1 offense would play about 12 to 15 snaps Saturday. Third-string quarterback Ingle Martin will play the entire fourth quarter. Paul Thompson won't play. Jennings (hip) and tackle Chad Clifton (knee) are both expected to play.
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=645112
Thursday camp report
THUMBS UP
Regardless of which kicker wins a roster spot, the Packers are going to be in pretty good shape with their kickoffs. Last year, Dave Rayner tied for 11th in the league in touchbacks with 11 and 10th in average distance with a 65.1-yard mark. Rookie Mason Crosby appears to have every bit of leg that Rayner does and tends to get a little more height on his kickoffs. More than half of his kickoffs at Colorado were touchbacks, although kicking in the high altitude certainly helped. On Thursday night, with very little wind, Rayner drove his first kickoff to the 1 and his second 6 yards into the end zone. Crosby hit his first to the 8 and his second to the goal line. Punter Ryan Dougherty even got into the act. After mis-hitting a ball that landed at the 21, he drove his next one to the goal line. Rayner outperformed the others on onside kicks, popping two in the air that the coverage team would have had a good chance to recover in live play.
THUMBS DOWN
Apparently, pleasantly warm weather with a minimum of mosquitoes doesn't appeal to Packers fans. The crowds have been dwindling for the night practices and attendance Thursday evening looked to be well below 1,000. In the early part of camp, the fences were lined six or seven deep, but the luster has worn off. It's hard to believe the nationally televised Dallas-Indianapolis game was so interesting that it lured Packers fans away from the great outdoors to the comfort of their living rooms. Practice began at 6:30 p.m. and ended at 8:40 p.m., so having to get up to go to work the next morning doesn't hold much water as an excuse. Maybe the Packers have to come to the reality that they aren't the attraction they once were, especially when it comes to practicing under the lights. At least there wasn't much of a traffic jam when practice came to an end.
INJURY REPORT
Wide receiver Greg Jennings (hip) and left tackle Chad Clifton (knee) both returned for the evening practice in pads.
Tight end Clark Harris (ankle), tackle Orrin Thompson (back), defensive tackle Justin Harrell (groin) and nose tackle Ryan Pickett (knee) returned for both practices.
Cornerbacks Charles Woodson (hamstring) and Al Harris (back) missed both practices and probably won't play Saturday.
Safety Aaron Rouse (ankle) dropped out of the night practice after getting hurt during kickoff return and receiver Robert Ferguson had a bag of ice on his right hip at the end of practice.
As is customary, end Aaron Kampman, tight end Bubba Franks, linebacker Abdul Hodge, Clifton and Ferguson were held out of the morning practice. All are on once-a-day schedules because of previous injuries.
ODDS AND ENDS
Guard Travis Leffew was called over to the defensive side to take two turns during the one-on-one pass rush drill, prompting one of the offensive linemen to yell out, "Traitor." On his first pass-rush attempt, Leffew, who hasn't played on defense since high school, left guard Adam Stenavich in the dust. Guard Tony Palmer had a little better luck with Leffew on his second turn.
Crosby edged ahead of Rayner in the field goal battle by hitting seven of eight for the day, including a 52-yarder. His only miss was from 37 yards (wide left). Rayner was 5 for 8, missing to the left from 49, 32 and 52. For the week, Rayner is 20 for 26 and Crosby is 23 for 27.
Safety Charlie Peprah was on the wrong end of a collision with 233-pound running back Corey White during a team run drill. White plowed over Peprah on his way through the secondary.
Harrell had his best day thus far in one-on-one pass rush drills. He won his first three turns, slipping Palmer with a quick inside move and then beating rookie free agent Pat Murray with a bull rush and a rip move.
Defensive end Cullen Jenkins continues to dominate during the pass rush drills. He blew past guard Daryn Colledge on one turn and then drew what arguably would have been a holding penalty on another one.
Cornerback Frank Walker had an interception near the end zone during a defensive team drill against the scout team, but he fumbled afterward. Cornerback Tramon Williams recovered the ball in the end zone. Quarterback Ingle Martin, who was leading the simulated Pittsburgh offense, threw the pass.
Wide receiver Chris Francies had one of the nicest catches of the evening when he came back for a ball and snatched it high out of the air.
Running back Vernand Morency continues to stand around practice with a jersey and pants on, which is unusual for injured players. He still is a week or two away from being cleared to practice because of a right knee injury. He works out in the Don Hutson Center during a portion of practice.
SCHEDULE FRIDAY
The Packers will have a walk-through in Lambeau Field that will be closed to the public and reporters. They play their first exhibition game Saturday night against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. Their next practice open to the public will start at 2 p.m. Monday.
______________________________________________________________
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=645080
Notes: Ferguson accepts role with resignation Relegated to special
If injuries were less a part of his history and receptions more a part of his résumé, Green Bay Packers wide receiver Robert Ferguson would have a legitimate beef with his role in the exhibition opener Saturday at Pittsburgh. Six-year veterans with 26 starts under their belts aren't supposed to be assigned to virtually every special teams unit for games that don't count. But that's where Ferguson finds himself this week. He hasn't come to peace with the fact the Packers seem to be carving out more of a role for him on special teams than at receiver and probably never will....Ferguson is in a Catch-22 of sorts. It would help him earn a roster spot if he could prove himself at wide receiver, but playing on both coverage units and both return units will tax him such that he might be at a disadvantage with the other receivers.
But Ferguson got himself into this position by missing 21 of his last 80 games because of injury and twice getting outplayed by a younger receiver (Javon Walker in 2004 and Greg Jennings in '06) when the starting job was his. Instead of having the comfort of just working on his receiving skills, he is having to prove himself all over again. Currently, he's battling for one of the last two receiver spots behind Donald Driver, Jennings and rookie James Jones. It's a crowded field with Shaun Bodiford, Ruvell Martin, David Clowney and Carlyle Holiday among his competition. "I do have some things to prove," Ferguson said.
During the off-season, coach Mike McCarthy told Ferguson that special teams was going to be a full-time endeavor for him again and that it would be a good way to enhance his chances of making the team. Ferguson accepted his assignment, but not with much glee and not with the acceptance that this would be his primary role. "It's not (ideal), but it's the NFL," Ferguson said. "You do what have to do to keep your job. When an opportunity comes, you make the most of it. I'd rather be in the Pro Bowl as a receiver (than special teams). But that window is getting real small, so I'm trying to capitalize while I can, while I got 10 toes and 10 fingers."
Marathon man
The Packers might have just three healthy halfbacks for the Steelers game Saturday, which means rookie Brandon Jackson will be handling a good portion of the work. Ideally, the Packers would like to work in a rotation of all their backs during the game, but their desire to see Jackson, their second-round pick and leader out of the gate for the starting job, will be fully satisfied. "We certainly need to get a good look at Brandon Jackson and see what he can do," offensive coordinator Joe Philbin said. "The way the depth chart is, that's not going to be a problem." The Packers probably will have only three backs Saturday because Vernand Morency (knee) and P.J. Pope (knee) are both out indefinitely and rookie DeShawn Wynn (thigh) looks doubtful after sitting out both practices.
The coaches got a big scare during the morning practice when running back Noah Herron went down in a heap after colliding with a pass defender. He was down for a while, but it turned out he had been hit in the throat and only needed time to regain his wind. Jackson will start and play through the first half and Herron will probably get a lot of early time also, especially on passing downs because the Steelers like to blitz and the Packers need to protect quarterback Brett Favre. Jackson had protection issues early in camp and this will be a major test for him.
Blitzburgh
Jackson won't be the only one under the gun Saturday. The offensive line will be facing a 3-4 defense that blitzed on nine of its first 10 snaps in the exhibition opener against New Orleans on Sunday. A year ago, the Packers faced a similar situation against San Diego, and their young offensive line collapsed under the pressure. "Looking back now, we're able to learn a lot from last year, but this year we spent a little more time preparing," center Scott Wells said. "First game, most time people don't (blitz that much). It's kind of unusual." One group that is excitedly anticipating the Steelers bringing it is the receivers. If the offensive line can handle its assignment, the receivers will have plenty of room to operate if they get the ball. "Let them blitz," Driver said. "They have to watch out for us. I think everybody's hungry. You kind of get happy when it's man-to-man."
Short yardage
McCarthy said the No. 1 offense would play about 12 to 15 snaps Saturday. Third-string quarterback Ingle Martin will play the entire fourth quarter. Paul Thompson won't play. Jennings (hip) and tackle Chad Clifton (knee) are both expected to play.
THURSDAY SESSIONS: PACKERSNEWS REVIEWS
http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com...20070810/PKR01/708100610/1057/PKR&located=RSS
Insider: Sixth-round picks shine
Thumbs up
It's starting to look like General Manager Ted Thompson struck gold in the sixth round. All three of his sixth-round picks — fullback Korey Hall (the 191st overall pick in the draft) linebacker Desmond Bishop (No. 192) and kicker Mason Crosby (No. 193) — had big days on Thursday. Bishop has taken advantage of the nagging knee problems that have limited second-year pro Abdul Hodge to one practice a day. With Hodge out in the morning, Bishop worked as the No. 2 middle linebacker. During a team (11-on-11) period, he intercepted an Ingle Martin pass that was tipped at the line of scrimmage by Jason Hunter. With Hodge back for night practice, Bishop still got some reps with the second-team. Another indication of his progress was he moved onto the No. 1 kickoff return team. He lined up in a spot previously held by starting linebacker Brady Poppinga. With Brandon Miree out with a stinger, Hall worked as the top fullback with the No. 1 offense and has made remarkable progress, especially considering he played linebacker during college at Boise State. All indications are that Crosby is an NFL-ready kicker. The only question is whether he beats out incumbent Dave Rayner. Crosby built on his overall camp lead by making eight of 10 kicks in Thursday's two practices combined. Rayner went 6-for-10, including an 0-2 showing in the morning practice during which he missed wide right from 47 yards and wide left from 48. However, it should be noted Rayner worked with backup holder Aaron Rodgers, while Crosby had the more experienced holder, Jon Ryan. For the entire camp, Crosby has made 61 of 73 field goals (83.6 percent) and Rayner 60 of 75 (80 percent).
Thumbs down
Frank Walker, the only unrestricted free agent Thompson signed this offseason, might need to make a furious rally to make the team. With the competitive part of practices largely over — most from here on out will be heavy on game-planning for the preseason games — Walker is way behind. Heading into Saturday's preseason opener at Pittsburgh, Walker looks like he's No. 6 on the depth chart at cornerback. With starters Al Harris and Charles Woodson sitting out on Thursday evening, Walker remained with the No. 2 defense behind Jarrett Bush and Patrick Dendy. When defensive coordinator Bob Sanders went to his nickel (five defensive backs) package, he used Will Blackmon as his third corner. One of Walker's best plays of training camp came during the night practice, but it ended badly. He picked off Martin in the end zone during a team period, but then tried to lateral to cornerback Tramon Williams and the ball hit the ground. Fortunately for Walker, Williams recovered. Thompson probably will keep five cornerbacks on the 53-man roster, so Walker might be on the outs.
Did you notice?
Rookie Justin Harrell had his best rep of camp during the one-on-one pass-rushing/pass-blocking drill in the night session. The defensive tackle used an inside move to beat right guard Tony Palmer. It was the first time in camp that the first-round pick won a rep with technique rather than pure power. Harrell also won a pair of reps by overpowering the camp whipping boy, Pat Murray. Harrell did lose one rep to fellow rookie Allen Barbre.
Offensive lineman Travis Leffew moved across the ball to take a pair of one-on-one reps as defensive tackle. He beat guard Adam Stenovich on his first try but then got stoned by Palmer.
After safety Tyrone Culver clotheslined running back Noah Herron during the morning practice, running back Corey White got revenge in the night session when he plowed over an unsuspecting Charlie Peprah. Both drills were supposed to be non-contact.
Rookie receiver David Clowney dropped another pass. This time, he was looking straight at the ball when he dropped a pass from Paul Thompson. Clowney ran a short route, turned to face Thompson and watched the ball hit him squarely in the hands.
http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com...20070810/PKR01/708100610/1057/PKR&located=RSS
Insider: Sixth-round picks shine
Thumbs up
It's starting to look like General Manager Ted Thompson struck gold in the sixth round. All three of his sixth-round picks — fullback Korey Hall (the 191st overall pick in the draft) linebacker Desmond Bishop (No. 192) and kicker Mason Crosby (No. 193) — had big days on Thursday. Bishop has taken advantage of the nagging knee problems that have limited second-year pro Abdul Hodge to one practice a day. With Hodge out in the morning, Bishop worked as the No. 2 middle linebacker. During a team (11-on-11) period, he intercepted an Ingle Martin pass that was tipped at the line of scrimmage by Jason Hunter. With Hodge back for night practice, Bishop still got some reps with the second-team. Another indication of his progress was he moved onto the No. 1 kickoff return team. He lined up in a spot previously held by starting linebacker Brady Poppinga. With Brandon Miree out with a stinger, Hall worked as the top fullback with the No. 1 offense and has made remarkable progress, especially considering he played linebacker during college at Boise State. All indications are that Crosby is an NFL-ready kicker. The only question is whether he beats out incumbent Dave Rayner. Crosby built on his overall camp lead by making eight of 10 kicks in Thursday's two practices combined. Rayner went 6-for-10, including an 0-2 showing in the morning practice during which he missed wide right from 47 yards and wide left from 48. However, it should be noted Rayner worked with backup holder Aaron Rodgers, while Crosby had the more experienced holder, Jon Ryan. For the entire camp, Crosby has made 61 of 73 field goals (83.6 percent) and Rayner 60 of 75 (80 percent).
Thumbs down
Frank Walker, the only unrestricted free agent Thompson signed this offseason, might need to make a furious rally to make the team. With the competitive part of practices largely over — most from here on out will be heavy on game-planning for the preseason games — Walker is way behind. Heading into Saturday's preseason opener at Pittsburgh, Walker looks like he's No. 6 on the depth chart at cornerback. With starters Al Harris and Charles Woodson sitting out on Thursday evening, Walker remained with the No. 2 defense behind Jarrett Bush and Patrick Dendy. When defensive coordinator Bob Sanders went to his nickel (five defensive backs) package, he used Will Blackmon as his third corner. One of Walker's best plays of training camp came during the night practice, but it ended badly. He picked off Martin in the end zone during a team period, but then tried to lateral to cornerback Tramon Williams and the ball hit the ground. Fortunately for Walker, Williams recovered. Thompson probably will keep five cornerbacks on the 53-man roster, so Walker might be on the outs.
Did you notice?
Rookie Justin Harrell had his best rep of camp during the one-on-one pass-rushing/pass-blocking drill in the night session. The defensive tackle used an inside move to beat right guard Tony Palmer. It was the first time in camp that the first-round pick won a rep with technique rather than pure power. Harrell also won a pair of reps by overpowering the camp whipping boy, Pat Murray. Harrell did lose one rep to fellow rookie Allen Barbre.
Offensive lineman Travis Leffew moved across the ball to take a pair of one-on-one reps as defensive tackle. He beat guard Adam Stenovich on his first try but then got stoned by Palmer.
After safety Tyrone Culver clotheslined running back Noah Herron during the morning practice, running back Corey White got revenge in the night session when he plowed over an unsuspecting Charlie Peprah. Both drills were supposed to be non-contact.
Rookie receiver David Clowney dropped another pass. This time, he was looking straight at the ball when he dropped a pass from Paul Thompson. Clowney ran a short route, turned to face Thompson and watched the ball hit him squarely in the hands.
THURSDAY SESSIONS: SCOUT REVIEW
http://packers.scout.com/2/666796.html
The Word: Training Camp Day 13
Mike McCarthy said he expects Jackson to play at least the entire first half. Tackling may be curtailed at Clarke Hinkle Field, but it won’t be at Heinz Field against a two-year removed Super Bowl champion defense. Ding-ding. “I’m ready to take as many reps as they want me to,” Jackson said Thursday. “I feel very comfortable with Brett and A-Rod. Very comfortable. “I’ll play the whole game if they want me to. If I have to play on my knuckles, I’ll play it. Don’t matter.”
As the case was on Family Night, the Packers defense is particularly ready to go ‘live.’ It feels reborn in a way. “I’m ready to see some different face masks,” said Johnny Jolly, who is in heated competition for a starting defensive tackle spot. “There’s going to be a lot of adrenaline flowing an a lot of passion for the game being shown out there Saturday. We’ve been working hard for this. Now we got to go get it.” Jolly’s DT partner on Thursday’s second team defense, Colin Cole, is anxious to see where the defense stands, especially against an offense that went on to a 20-7 win over New Orleans last week. “The Pittsburgh Steelers are a great football team,” Cole said. “Last week they had a great showing against New Orleans. It’s going to be a great challenge for us as a defense. They’re probably going to come out and try to pound the ball on us a little more than they did last week. This is going to be a great benchmark to see where we are for 2007.”
Several players may be held out of Saturday's game, according to McCarthy. Here are a few notes:
· McCarthy said he is “a little worried about Al [Harris],” now that the starting cornerback’s lower back has been bothering him for two weeks. Harris and Charles Woodson (hamstring) didn’t practice Thursday night and may not play Saturday. Patrick Dendy and Jarrett Bush have been starting in their spots.
· DeShawn Wynn missed both practices Thursday due to a quadriceps strain. The coach said that Wynn is “a couple of days away.” If he can’t play, that leaves the Packers with only Jackson, Noah Herron, and Corey White at tailback.
· McCarthy plans on Chad Clifton (knees) and Greg Jennings (hip) both playing at Pittsburgh.
· McCarthy stated that the first team offense will probably operate for 12-15 plays.
· Ingle Martin is penciled in to play the entire fourth quarter at Pittsburgh with his competition for the No. 3 QB job, Paul Thompson, playing a full fourth quarter against Seattle on Aug. 18.
· Brandon Miree (stinger) may miss the preseason opener, but McCarthy said he will know more on Friday.
Offensive Play of the Day
Safety Charlie Peprah probably approached Corey White with a “walk through” mentality in Thursday night’s 11-on-11 work. Nevertheless, White gave fans an appetizer of what to expect at Pittsburgh. He took a handoff up a huge hole in the middle, Peprah closed in, and White didn’t merely lower his shoulder, he unleashed his shoulder into the safety. Peprah hit the turf and White kept lumbering. That is the one undeniably edge he has on Jackson, Herron, and Wynn. Power. He has ‘downsized’ from 242 pounds to 234 lbs. since his Pro Day, which has increased his speed, without sacrificing strength.
Defensive Play of the Day
With Pittsburgh around the corner, the defense went lighter than usual. The emphasis on today’s two practices was put on offensive timing and recognition. Therefore, Thursday was deprived of stand-out plays from the defense in 11-on-11 action.
Stock is Rising
Last season Tony Palmer made a physical adjustment. Now he’s making a mental adjustment. After being claimed on waivers from St. Louis, last year, Palmer weighed at 325 lbs. To fit the team’s zone blocking scheme, he lost 15 pounds. This summer the Palmer is trying a new position- center. Working with the second and third teams, Palmer has shown considerable strides day-by-day. “I think he’s doing a nice job,” McCarthy said. “He’s a very powerful player on the first level. The thing he needs to work on and get used to, because schematically he hasn't done it before, is the second level blocking. I think he's done a very nice job at guard on the first level. He’s doing a good job with the calls. He had a couple rough shotguns but I’m pleased with Tony Palmer.” It only took one injury for previous centers Mike Flanagan, Grey Ruegamer, and Scott Wells to get thrown into the fire. The Packers are smart for grooming Palmer.
Stock is Falling
Last year at this time, middle linebacker Abdul Hodge was making a big impression with the coaches, and there was talk of him starting at middle linebacker and moving Nick Barnett to an outside position. Now Hodge is on the third team. Hodge (knee) did not participate in Green Bay’s Organized Team Activities and mini-camp practices in May and June, which has visibly set him back. Desmond Bishop has grasped Bob Sanders’ defense quickly, which has bumped Hodge back. There is little room on the outside too. Second-unit outside linebackers Spencer Havner and Tracy White have had solid camps, putting even more pressure on Hodge to produce in the preseason.
http://packers.scout.com/2/666796.html
The Word: Training Camp Day 13
Mike McCarthy said he expects Jackson to play at least the entire first half. Tackling may be curtailed at Clarke Hinkle Field, but it won’t be at Heinz Field against a two-year removed Super Bowl champion defense. Ding-ding. “I’m ready to take as many reps as they want me to,” Jackson said Thursday. “I feel very comfortable with Brett and A-Rod. Very comfortable. “I’ll play the whole game if they want me to. If I have to play on my knuckles, I’ll play it. Don’t matter.”
As the case was on Family Night, the Packers defense is particularly ready to go ‘live.’ It feels reborn in a way. “I’m ready to see some different face masks,” said Johnny Jolly, who is in heated competition for a starting defensive tackle spot. “There’s going to be a lot of adrenaline flowing an a lot of passion for the game being shown out there Saturday. We’ve been working hard for this. Now we got to go get it.” Jolly’s DT partner on Thursday’s second team defense, Colin Cole, is anxious to see where the defense stands, especially against an offense that went on to a 20-7 win over New Orleans last week. “The Pittsburgh Steelers are a great football team,” Cole said. “Last week they had a great showing against New Orleans. It’s going to be a great challenge for us as a defense. They’re probably going to come out and try to pound the ball on us a little more than they did last week. This is going to be a great benchmark to see where we are for 2007.”
Several players may be held out of Saturday's game, according to McCarthy. Here are a few notes:
· McCarthy said he is “a little worried about Al [Harris],” now that the starting cornerback’s lower back has been bothering him for two weeks. Harris and Charles Woodson (hamstring) didn’t practice Thursday night and may not play Saturday. Patrick Dendy and Jarrett Bush have been starting in their spots.
· DeShawn Wynn missed both practices Thursday due to a quadriceps strain. The coach said that Wynn is “a couple of days away.” If he can’t play, that leaves the Packers with only Jackson, Noah Herron, and Corey White at tailback.
· McCarthy plans on Chad Clifton (knees) and Greg Jennings (hip) both playing at Pittsburgh.
· McCarthy stated that the first team offense will probably operate for 12-15 plays.
· Ingle Martin is penciled in to play the entire fourth quarter at Pittsburgh with his competition for the No. 3 QB job, Paul Thompson, playing a full fourth quarter against Seattle on Aug. 18.
· Brandon Miree (stinger) may miss the preseason opener, but McCarthy said he will know more on Friday.
Offensive Play of the Day
Safety Charlie Peprah probably approached Corey White with a “walk through” mentality in Thursday night’s 11-on-11 work. Nevertheless, White gave fans an appetizer of what to expect at Pittsburgh. He took a handoff up a huge hole in the middle, Peprah closed in, and White didn’t merely lower his shoulder, he unleashed his shoulder into the safety. Peprah hit the turf and White kept lumbering. That is the one undeniably edge he has on Jackson, Herron, and Wynn. Power. He has ‘downsized’ from 242 pounds to 234 lbs. since his Pro Day, which has increased his speed, without sacrificing strength.
Defensive Play of the Day
With Pittsburgh around the corner, the defense went lighter than usual. The emphasis on today’s two practices was put on offensive timing and recognition. Therefore, Thursday was deprived of stand-out plays from the defense in 11-on-11 action.
Stock is Rising
Last season Tony Palmer made a physical adjustment. Now he’s making a mental adjustment. After being claimed on waivers from St. Louis, last year, Palmer weighed at 325 lbs. To fit the team’s zone blocking scheme, he lost 15 pounds. This summer the Palmer is trying a new position- center. Working with the second and third teams, Palmer has shown considerable strides day-by-day. “I think he’s doing a nice job,” McCarthy said. “He’s a very powerful player on the first level. The thing he needs to work on and get used to, because schematically he hasn't done it before, is the second level blocking. I think he's done a very nice job at guard on the first level. He’s doing a good job with the calls. He had a couple rough shotguns but I’m pleased with Tony Palmer.” It only took one injury for previous centers Mike Flanagan, Grey Ruegamer, and Scott Wells to get thrown into the fire. The Packers are smart for grooming Palmer.
Stock is Falling
Last year at this time, middle linebacker Abdul Hodge was making a big impression with the coaches, and there was talk of him starting at middle linebacker and moving Nick Barnett to an outside position. Now Hodge is on the third team. Hodge (knee) did not participate in Green Bay’s Organized Team Activities and mini-camp practices in May and June, which has visibly set him back. Desmond Bishop has grasped Bob Sanders’ defense quickly, which has bumped Hodge back. There is little room on the outside too. Second-unit outside linebackers Spencer Havner and Tracy White have had solid camps, putting even more pressure on Hodge to produce in the preseason.
Pack93z
You retired too? .... Not me. I'm in my prime
Hey welcome back Bertram... long time no post!
pack_in_black
Cheesehead
Seriously, I don't remember where we got him. I've been getting him confused with Korey Hall from Boise State, and just realized yesterday that we had two backs named Corey.
Was he a practice squad guy that got promoted last season?
Pack93z
You retired too? .... Not me. I'm in my prime
http://www.packers.com/team/players/white_corey/
Dropped about 15 pounds in camp to improve speed, the article said he lost no strength.
pack_in_black
Cheesehead
That's right, he was the only true fullback that the Pack brought in last offseason. Now I remember, dude from UAB. Got it.
