Game Day: Pack/Jags
FIVETHINGS
TO WATCH
Mirror image: The Jaguars play the kind of football the Packers hope to play this season: good, physical defense complemented by a strong running game. Jacksonville ranked second in the league in defense last year and will punch the Packers in the mouth if they don't come ready to rumble. This will be the best test for the Packers' run defense thus far even though Naeole won't be in the lineup and it's questionable how many carries starting running back Fred Taylor will receive. Jacksonville ran for a franchise-record 2,541 yards last year.
First things first: The Jaguars intend to play most of their starters through the first three quarters of the game, but the Packers won't match them. Because of injuries at running back, fullback and offensive line, coach Mike McCarthy wants to limit the exposure of the starters and risk losing any more depth at those positions. What's more, he wants to put players who are on the fence - such as ends Larry Birdine and Jason Hunter, safety Charlie Peprah, linebacker Desmond Bishop and defensive tackle Daniel Muir - a chance to play against the Jaguars' No. 1 units.
Crunch time: So far, neither Dave Rayner nor Mason Crosby has flinched. Both have hit 2 of 2 attempts in exhibition games and roughly the same percentage in practice. Kickoffs could be a determining factor. So far, their distance has been almost equal (Rayner is averaging 70 yards per kick and Crosby is averaging 69.8). But Rayner has two touchbacks to Crosby's one and returns off his kickoffs have averaged 21.2 yards to Crosby's 28.0. The battle continues.
Block and tackle: Rookie Korey Hall has the team made, the only question is whether he'll start at fullback. Veteran Brandon Miree suffered a setback due to a neck stinger and will be playing for the first time. Either Miree is going to have to play lights out or Hall is going to have to fall flat on his face for there to be a change in the depth chart. Hall's play on special teams continues to be a plus in his favor and he's definitely the fullback of the future.
Feet first: Rookie free agent running back Corey White is being given an opportunity to show he belongs, but he's clearly on the fence and needs a big game to solidify his spot. White has the second most carries behind Brandon Jackson with 21, but is averaging just 2.2 yards per attempt. Jackson, Morency and Hall are guaranteed roster spots. White could serve as a swing man at halfback and fullback. If he plays well, then the Packers could keep him and either one or two more halfbacks to go with the other three.
Story Link >>
Published by PackerPundit On Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 5:02 AM.
0 Responses to “Game Day: Pack/Jags”
Post a Comment