Packers at Vikings: Final Thoughts

Some thoughts from yesterday's game against the Minnesota Vikings.

A short while ago, some of the Green Bay Packers' players were saying the only people who could beat them was themselves. And, that nearly happened in this game; especially on the defensive side of the ball.

I think part of the problem with the defense was missing nickel back Sam Shields. But the defense, in general, seemed like it was napping at times; as though they weren't expecting the Vikings to be so aggressive on offense.

As I mentioned in my predictions column, rookie quarterbacks making their first start are usually dangerous because of the lack of film. Vikings' quarterback Christian Ponder once again proved that. But, I suspect the next time these two teams meet, he won't be as effective.

The first play from scrimmage was a perfect example of what I said above. The Packers likely figured the Vikings would hand off the ball to Adrian Peterson; making the play fake so much more effective.

Speaking of Adrian Peterson, I have to admit he's a heck of a running back. But, I also wonder if he'll be a lot like Barry Sanders and play on more bad teams than good teams; pretty much wasting his talents.

Packers' receiver Randall Cobb reminded us in this game that he is still a rookie with that muffed punt and dropped pass. Without his mistakes, I think it's safe to say the Packers would have had at least 3-7 more points.

You have to love the emergence of the Packers' running game. Ryan Grant and James Starks rushed for more than 100 yards against a defense that is in the top 5 against the run; including some pretty big runs toward the end of the game.

The more I watch Marshall Newhouse play, the more I think Chad Clifton might not keep his starting job. Aaron Rodgers looked pretty comfortable in that pocket despite facing two solid pass rushers.