Category: Uncategorized

O-Zone: Breaking it down

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Let’s get to it …

Steve from Queenstown, MD:

This defense is officially something special …

John: This was sent immediately after the news that the Jaguars had traded a sixth-round selection in the 2018 NFL Draft for defensive tackle Marcell Dareus. The addition of Darius indeed appears to address the Jaguars’ lone defensive issue – run defense – in a significant way. As good as the Jaguars’ defensive line has been most of the season, it was not a particularly stout unit – and it was ranked 31st in the NFL against the run. Dareus at 6-feet-3, 331 pounds immediately adds stoutness – and it stands to reason that will help against the run. As for the defense being “officially something special,” it already seemed special. Maybe this will make it special, special – or something like that.

Renee from Duval:

John!!! Dareus? Stopping the run? GO JAGUARS!

John: Fans love trades. I’m usually not one who pushes hard for midseason trades because they’re discussed a lot more than they actually happen. This one makes sense, though. Dareus played for Jaguars Head Coach Doug Marrone in 2013 and 2014 – and he had the two best seasons of his career, registering 17.5 sacks during that span. He seems to address a need against the run. It seems like a good fit. Stay tuned.

JT from Rosamond, CA:

Only issue with this defense was against the run. Enter Marcell Dareus…

John: Indeed.

Steve from Nashville, TN:

Which one of the five remaining home games do you think the Jags could win?

John: Perchance I detect a note of sarcasm in your question, Steve? Or perchance not. Either way, I don’t know that there’s all that much reason for sarcasm when it comes to this team through seven games. It clearly is an improved team with what’s becoming a good formula for winning. It therefore is a team capable of winning any of its remaining nine games if it plays as it has so far this season defensively – and if it plays mistake-free on special teams and gets efficiency from quarterback Blake Bortles. The Jaguars are also capable of losing any of their remaining nine games if they struggle to stop the run, commit turnovers offensively and give away special teams points. As far as this whole thing about the Jaguars and EverBank Field, the idea of them not being able to win there has been overblown. They were bad for a long time and lost a lot wherever they played. They have won five of nine games since Doug Marrone took over as head coach late last season. They are 3-2 on the road and 1-2 at EverBank Field during that span. The better they get, the more they will win at home. It will be cool for fans when they start to win at home – and yes, it’s important. And it will happen.

Chris from St. Augustine, FL:

The defense and running game are the strengths of this team. We are 4-3 but couldn’t one say that Blake Bortles won two of those games with his quarterback play??? One fer Blake Bortles!!! At least until the next game where he completes less than 60 percent of his passes … #DTWD

John: It’s probably a reach to say Bortles won two games this season, but it’s not a stretch to say he played really well in two of the Jaguars’ victories – and neither is it a stretch to say he has played well in at least three games this season. Bortles for the most part hasn’t played poorly this season, and the team thinks far more highly of his play this season than many observers seem to think. So, yeah – one fer Bortles – until, like you said, the next game in which he’s not perfect.

Verne from Des Moines, IA:

So, O-man, this defense is playing inspired ball this year. They are already only the third team in NFL history to record two double-digit sack games in a single season. This is the most exciting season they’ve had in over a decade. Probably the best team since ’99 – and possibly their best defense ever! When the offense or special teams don’t blow it, they seem to be capable of not only beating, but blowing out any team in the league. I really feel like not only is a deep playoff run possible, but they might be able to win the whole thing. Am I getting ahead of myself to get excited about a possible Super Bowl?? I’ll hang up now and listen off air.

John: Getting excited about the Super Bowl in November is the very definition of getting ahead of yourself. And this is a team that hasn’t won two consecutive games this season. But this team has some strengths that indicate they can win their share of games the rest of the season. If they package those strengths with improvement in the passing game and run defense they could win enough to get to the postseason. The entire AFC – and indeed, the entire NFL – is bunched together. The teams that make the postseason will figure out a way to string some victories together – and those teams will improve on what they’re doing now. It’s all yet to be decided. Stay tuned.

Dan from Ponte Vedra Beach, FL:

John, in your response to Sid from Sidsonville you said “This isn’t the NBA, NHL or Major League Baseball.” My question is why didn’t you continue the trend and use MLB?

John: I didn’t feel like it.

Ronald from Akutan, AR:

Why do most networks focus on yards and not points allowed? Right now, the Jags have the second-best defense stat with 96 (110 total with the kickoff return and blocked punt). With that in mind, the game with Cincinnati will be with two of the Top 5 defenses.

John: Networks and media typically use total yards when citing league rankings because that’s how the NFL lists teams in official league rankings. I don’t anticipate the league changing that because it’s the easiest way to rank them and because the league has been doing it this way for a long time. I don’t know what the impetus would be to change.

Aaron from Aldie:

I guess we are beating our chest by handling a struggling Colts team, they do this against the Bengals and I’ll help them.

John: I am sure you knew what you meant.

Jeff from Rutland, MA:

The past few years have made it difficult to guess how Blake will play week to week, but having to practice against this defense just might help him raise his game a bit.

John: OK.

Matt from Glen Burnie:

I really don’t understand how everyone is already putting Ws in columns against teams we play in the future. Did we already forget about the Jets game? There is only one game that should be focused on and that is next game. Luckily, it seems like the attitude in the locker room is pretty grounded and everyone on the team knows you can only take it one week at a time.

John: Fans look ahead and count victories and losses; it’s what fans do and it’s what they’re supposed to do. And no, the players in the locker room aren’t counting anything. But that’s not luck; that’s an awareness that this is the NFL and not college football. The NFL is a week-to-week league and winning is hard no matter the opponent. That’s something a lot of observers and fans miss, but it’s true. It’s especially true for this team.

Eliz from Miami Springs, FL:

Klka

John: Zgdw.

Irving from New York, NY:

Hi, John. What are your thoughts on the Tennessee Titan threat? I get an eerie feeling about that team against the Jaguars. I remember them being the thorn in the Jags’ side in 1999 when no matter how good the Jags were, they would fall to the Titans. I am sort of reminded of that season. Do you notice this as well? Any thoughts on that John? Thank you sir!

John: The Titans are good. They run the ball well and they have a very good offensive line. That makes them a tricky matchup for the Jaguars.

Jeff from Jacksonville:

Is there a specific player or players for the Jaguars that you would be at least mildly surprised if they didn’t make it to the Pro Bowl? This isn’t a question of “most likely to be selected,” but rather, a player playing at such a high level, it would be considered almost a snub if they weren’t selected.

John: If Calais Campbell and Jalen Ramsey continue to play as they have this season and don’t make the Pro Bowl, I would consider that a snub.

Mike from Atlanta, GA:

I’m glad they re-signed Telvin Smith. He is one of the better linebackers in the NFL and he really is a playmaker on this defense. The defense is definitely better with him on the field. In your estimation, where does Telvin rank among 4-3 outside linebackers in the NFL?

John: Up there.

 

 

 

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O-Zone: Fear not

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Bi Friday O-Zone.

Let’s get to it …

Nathan from Provo, UT:
Please tell Nick you don’t put free agents in your pride. That’s why it’s called a Pride. Pedigree. Like Yannick Ngakoue. Fred Taylor. Tony Boselli. And I vote for a twin induction: the law firm of John Henderson and Marcus Stroud. Of course, I too was impressed to see the impact that is Calais Campbell. But has he really paled his career as a Cardinal? I don’t think so.

John: I probably won’t pass along your message – mainly because it’s not correct; there’s no reason a free agent can’t be in the Pride of the Jaguars. In fact, wide receiver Jimmy Smith played with two NFL teams – the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles – before joining the Jaguars as a free agent in 1995. He was inducted into the Pride last season. There’s also no reason a player can’t be honored by two organizations. Peyton Manning was a league Most Valuable Player for both Indianapolis and Denver, and quarterbacked both organizations to multiple Super Bowls. Can both organizations not honor him? Regarding Campbell, I have no idea if he ever will be inducted into the Pride – and it’s absolutely too early for the discussion. Teams typically honor players who have a lasting impact on their organization. Campbell in a very short time has shown himself to be that sort of player.

Will from Jacksonville:
Reading on websites, people seem to feel losing Barry Church was a huge loss for the Cowboys. Do you feel his presence on the Jags makes him one of the unsung players on the team?

John: Absolutely.

Frankie from London, UK:
Mr. O! I woke up Thursday on holiday in Italy to the delightful news that Telvin Smith’s contract has been extended. A nice week away has just been made much better. My question: how many Jaguars in the past five years (heck, maybe even longer) have deserved a new contract more than Telvin? Duval Till We Die – and I think our fifth-round steal feels the same way, too.

John: Smith absolutely deserved a new contract, and a major issue for the organization in recent seasons absolutely has been that no Jaguars draft selection had played well enough to be re-signed to a long-term, core-player contract. That has changed in recent seasons, and the team signed center Brandon Linder to a similar deal this past summer. I would expect the Jaguars to re-sign wide receiver Allen Robinson with an eye on potentially re-signing another player or two from the 2014 draft class in the coming months.

Steve from Jacksonville:
I think the most noteworthy thing about the Telvin Smith re-signing was that the Jags have had a horrible track record of signing draft picks to second contracts. Here’s hoping this is the first of a few guys worthy of second contracts. One fer Caldwell and Co. for finding him in the fifth round.

John: One fer Caldwell and Co. for finding Linder, too – or nah?

A.J. from Pensacola, FL:
Bye Week What If: If during the second half of the season, the Jaguars can make consecutive wins the norm with key players continuing to perform at a high level, how many and which players do you think will be Pro Bowl selections?

John: I think Campbell, cornerback Jalen Ramsey and running back Leonard Fournette have a very good chance to make the Pro Bowl this season; Campbell and Fournette seem likely to have the statistics to back up remarkable seasons and Ramsey’s reputation is starting to match his level of play. Telvin Smith also at this point would seem deserving, but Pro Bowl honors can be tough for traditional 4-3 outside linebackers; postseason honors often unfairly go to 3-4, sack-oriented linebackers. There are others who could be deserving, but those seem the obvious four through seven games.

Rob from Jacksonville Beach:
I want to caution anyone who is automatically penciling in wins against the Bengals and Chargers. We were feeling pretty good last preseason until the Bengals absolutely destroyed us in that third preseason game, and it seemed like we never recovered. And Rivers has been a Jag killer for years. I won’t believe we beat the Chargers and Rivers until I see it.

John: OK.

Dave from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada:
You recently stated that the Jaguars are playing a bit more zone coverage than in the past versus man-to-man coverage. I am just wondering what the advantage is for the Jaguars, with the cornerbacks and linebackers they have, to play more zone vs man-to-man. If opponents line up two wide receivers, then most of the time Ramsey and A.J. Bouye should be able to handle them one-on-one and the linebackers are quick enough to cover most of the tight ends in the league. Even if an opponent has three wide receivers on the field we have enough speed and vision in the back end for safety help plus Aaron Colvin is more than capable of covering most wide receivers. Could you please explain?

John: Ramsey and Bouye are certainly capable of playing man-to-man against most – if not all – teams. Sometimes an opponent’s offense calls for the Jaguars to go to zone against certain formations. There also, remember, are benefits to playing zone – with the most significant being that the defenders are facing the quarterback. Because of that, it is sometimes easier to defend mobile quarterbacks. It’s also sometimes easier to get interceptions and break on the ball in zone because you’re facing the quarterback rather than following a receiver.

Dylan from Tulsa, OK:
So Martavis Bryant? Steelers want him gone, he wants a bigger role, we need a playmaker on the outside. Sounds like a match made in football heaven. Only if he doesn’t bring his problems to the locker room, which is a big if.

John: Bryant is a big-time talent. I don’t know him, so I can’t comment on what kind of person he is or how he is as a locker-room presence. I do know he has been suspended for a year under the NFL’s substance-abuse policy. That almost certainly will affect what a team will give up for him, and it raises a concern regarding his availability once he is attained. That doesn’t meant Bryant wouldn’t be a good acquisition, but those are reasons it’s not necessarily a “match made in football heaven.” I also know the Steelers haven’t seemed inclined to trade him. Perhaps that will change.

Sid from Sidsonville:
With all the potential trade rumors around, if you were the general manager who would you look at to improve this roster for the second half of the season?

John: I’d probably look for a receiver, but I wouldn’t give up much for it. I’m not a big believer that midseason trades provide big impact. This isn’t the NBA, NHL or Major League Baseball.

Chad from Yulee, FL:
I know it won’t happen, but should Dave/Tom call the Cardinals about Larry Fitzgerald?

John: Trade rumors are fun. Fans like them.

Talha from Raleigh, NC:
I’ve been a Jaguars fan since fourth grade and I’m now about to graduate college. I’ve waited over a decade for the Jaguars to get somewhere with only a brief chance in 2007 with David Garrard. It has been a long time coming. Question: If you’re an opposing offensive coordinator or head coach, what defensive player do you game plan around? Who is your biggest concern? Ramsey, Bouye, Calais Campbell, Yannick Ngakoue, Myles Jack? That’s the stuff of nightmares.

John: My answer is Ramsey by a thin margin. You must get Ngakoue and Campbell blocked up front, but if you throw too often at Ramsey in the wrong situation he can turn the game around with an interception. Nod to Ramsey because he’s the most freakish player on the defense athletically – but again, it’s close.

Paul from Jacksonville:
Blake Bortles this year has seemed a bit better without having to play from behind in nearly every single game.

John: This is true of Bortles and of the entire team. It’s particularly difficult to play quarterback at a high level when teams know you’re going to pass every play. You might pile up a lot of statistics in that situation, but you’re also more likely to take a lot of sacks and commit a lot of turnovers.

Daniel from Jersey City, NJ:
O-man, how long do you think we could realistically keep this defense together before cap space and/or other circumstances will require we let key players go?

John: The Jaguars are seven games into their first season of having what appears to be a really good defense and already we’re worried about letting people go? I kid, but the reality is this is a pretty young unit with most key players having at least two years left on their contracts. Nickel cornerback Aaron Colvin will be a free agent after this season, but this group can pretty much stay together a couple of more years with most of the players people think of as key under contract for that long. After that, you identify core players and draft around them. But fear not: the young core should be around for a while.
 

 

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Ask Vic: The next one is the big one

Here are my Week 8 power rankings:
1. Eagles – Defense is leading the way.
2. Patriots – Dominant in win over Falcons.
3. Steelers – If they begin finishing drives, look out.
4. Rams – Arrow pointing straight up.
5. Saints – No longer a one-trick pony.
6. Chargers – At Pats this week; now we’ll know.
7. Seahawks – Pete Carroll has them on the rise.
8. Vikings – New power team in NFC North?
9. Lions – Rested and waiting to ambush Steelers.
10. Bills – Showed some offense on Sunday.
11. Chiefs – Will rebound against Broncos.
12. Cowboys – How long can they delay Elliott’s suspension?
13. Panthers – Newton’s moodiness a problem.
14. Falcons – Something is terribly wrong.
15. Raiders – Carr’s back and hope has returned.
16. Broncos – Arrow pointing straight down.
17. Jaguars – Who are you? Who, who, who, who?
18. Redskins – Look out, Cowboys.
19. Dolphins – Still not convinced.
20. Texans – Watson gives them bright future.
21. Titans – Record’s good, but Titans aren’t.
22. Packers – Time to rest, make a new plan.
23. Bears – Winning with a magic wand.
24. Ravens – Flacco big hit, but on cap only.
25. Bengals – Burfict only added to their embarrassment.
26. Jets – Competitive, gritty.
27. Bucs – Must fix their defense.
28. Cardinals – No offense and no defense is a bad combination.
29. Giants – Headed nowhere.
30. Colts – Wheels falling off.
31. Browns – At least they play defense.
32. 49ers – Name one good thing.

Brian from Jacksonville, FL
Are you saying Lamar Jackson’s skill set is the future, to mean we are going to see more run-pass option in the NFL? How do you see NFL defenses evolving if that were to become true?
Yes, I think Jackson’s skill set is the future of the position in pro football. When the quarterback is a  true runner in a spread offense, the offense has a numbers advantage in the running game because defenses traditionally cover four with six. I think we’re already seeing how defenses will react: lighter, faster, more athletic fronts. Watch what defenses do against Dak Prescott. That’s the future.

Tim from Jacksonville, FL
The NFL announces they will rearrange team rosters by holding a draft for all current NFL players. Who are the first three players selected?
Dak Prescott, Aaron Donald, Khalil Mack. They’re all young and dominant.

Chris from Appleton, WI
Hi Vic, it seems as though the Jaguars may have, at least for the moment, crawled their way out of the hapless pits of the NFL. How do they stay out of it again? Blake Bortles can’t be the answer, can he?
He has until the end of the season to prove he can be the future at the position. If he doesn’t prove he’s “The Man,” I would expect the Jaguars to spend their first pick on a quarterback. You have to have “The Man” to be a championship contender.

Andrew from Huxley, IA
Vic, the “Insider Inbox” comments sections have become unbearable. I know when you started the column you loved that fans were interacting. Any advice on how one can enjoy the inbox and interact with other fans without being turned off by the hate being spewed by certain posters?
Reason defeats emotion.

Zach from La Junta, CO
It is very evident anything can happen in any football game, but has there ever been a team so bad vs. a team so dominant there was no chance of winning in the NFL?
I saw it in 1976 when the Steelers hosted the winless Tampa Bay Bucs. In all of the years I covered Chuck Noll’s Steelers team, it was the only time I can remember Coach Noll avoiding conversation of that week’s opponent. The Bucs were so bad the outcome was a foregone conclusion, and to speak on the subject would’ve been in bad taste.

Kris from Stockbridge, WI
With no Packers game this weekend, which games should Green Bay fans be watching? Which games will Vic be watching?
The Steelers-Lions game is the obvious choice, as the Packers host the Lions the following week. If the Lions beat the Steelers, I will consider the Week 9 game in Green Bay a must win for the Packers. Vikings-Browns and Saints-Bears don’t interest me, but you never know. Chargers at Patriots has my interest; so does Broncos at Chiefs.

Haillie from Washington, WI
Hi Vic, in the absence of Rodgers, do you think the rest of the team is trying to do too much?
I think Packers fans are trying to do the same thing Coach McCarthy did: play around the quarterback. Defense wasn’t the issue on Sunday. I thought it played better than could be expected against a high-powered offense with a lopsided time of possession advantage. Quarterback was the issue; it’s just that simple. I’m not trying to be overly critical of a guy making his first start, but you’re just not going to win when you pass for 87 yards. Against Drew Brees? Again, let’s get real, OK? Packers fans love to blame the defense because they’re homers for offense. They love the passers and pass-catchers. The Packers’ passing game was a no-show and that’s why they lost.

Greg from Danbury, CT
Carlos and Smith were suspended from the U.S. team and banned from the Olympic Village. They, and their families, faced death threats for the protest on the podium. But we have hope. Carlos competed again in track and field, and Smith went on to play for the AFL. Each man has his proper place in the annals of U.S. track and field. History gives us perspective. It’s a patient game. Thanks, Vic.
Beautifully written.

Mike from North Hudson, WI
Vic, after seven games into the season, what will the Packers need to do to make the postseason?
​I think they need to win their remaining four NFC North games. I think it begins with that. That’s the way I see it, as I look at the schedule.

Brian from Kingston, NY
Since you have a penchant for comparing current players to players from other eras, who does Aaron Jones remind you of?
I see some Greg Pruitt.

Bill from Forest Park, OH
Give me hope, Vic.
OK, here’s reason for hope: In my opinion, if the Packers beat the Lions in Week 9, the Packers will make it into the postseason. Should the Packers lose that game, hope will be replaced by desperation. Use your bye weekend to get ready for the big game of the season, the next one.

Lori from Brookfield, WI
Vic, historically, how have NFL teams fared record-wise after losing their starting QB?
Let me be specific: In 2013, the Packers played five times in November without Aaron Rodgers and didn’t win any of those games. As I’ve said, you’re not hurt until your quarterback is hurt. The Packers are playing uphill now. This isn’t a feel-good, fill in situation as it was against the Patriots in 2010. This is for the long haul. It will take everything the Packers have inside them to remain a contender. I think Packers fans should lower their expectations and heighten their appreciation of the grit this football team is going to display over the remainder of this season.

 

 

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O-Zone: Merry what?

John Oehser Senior writer jaguars.com

JACKSONVILLE – Looking ahead at the bye.

Let’s get to it …

Justin from South Florida:
Just a thought: Dede Westbrook’s return, coupled with Blake Bortles trending “up” – along with what we already have – is going to make this a very, very tough team to beat. Expect an even better team in the last nine games than we saw in the first seven – barring injury. Every team has weaknesses, and I don’t really see anyone this team can’t beat if they show up and play the way they’re capable.

John: You’re right. If the Jaguars play smart, efficient and get a lead, it will be very tough for any team to beat them. The pass defense/pass rush has proven through seven games it is that good, and the running game – especially if running back Leonard Fournette remains healthy – is that capable of protecting and extending a lead. Then again, the opposite also is true. If the Jaguars commit early turnovers or penalties – and if the special teams give away points as they did against the Rams – this team is capable of losing to any team; it has struggled in run defense and doesn’t seem built to be a quick-strike, come-from-behind offense. The Jaguars have played the way they need to play four times and have been close to playing that way in two of three losses. They seem to be doing things right more often than not. That’s a good sign.

Sebastian from Orlando, FL:
Do you think no matter how well Blake Bortles plays we are gonna draft a quarterback in the top three rounds of the draft next April?

John: Yeah, probably.

Ryan from Charlotte, NC:
It’s been so long since the Jags were in contention that I forgot how huge being 2-1 in the division is. This is fun.

John: Yeah, definitely.

Nick from Annapolis, MD:
Is it too early to talk about Calais Campbell in the Pride of the Jaguars?

John: Yeah, probably – though Campbell increasingly seems like the rare player who can sign with a team later in his career as a free agent and dramatically reshape that organization. His statistics and performance alone are enough to make that the case, but if you add leadership and locker-room presence his impact has been extraordinary. It’s possibly his signing last offseason could be remembered as a turning-point moment for the franchise. Pride of the Jaguars? That feels early, but …

Steve from Jacksonville:
Poz was noticeably absent from the box score in Week 7 versus the Colts. Has the play of Myles Jack and the other linebackers evolved to where the coaching staff hoped it would be before the season began?

John: Jack and Telvin Smith are playing at a high level, particularly against the pass. But that doesn’t have anything to do with Paul Posluszny’s playing time or impact on the box score. When the Jaguars are in nickel situations, cornerback Aaron Colvin is going to be on the field as the fifth defensive back and Posluszny will be out. When the Jaguars are in base situations, Posluszny will be on the field and Colvin will be out. That’s going to be determined less by how the linebackers are playing than what opponents are doing offensively.

Don from Macclenny, FL:
O-Zone, the Jaguars next game is in November. When was the last time this team played a truly meaningful game in November?

John: 2010.

Jim from Jacksonville:
O-man, what are the rules for players during a bye week? Do they get the week off or couple days and back to practice?

John: Players by rule get the bye weekend and two days around that bye weekend off. Many teams opt to take the two days before the weekend, and that’s what the Jaguars are doing. They will be off beginning Thursday and return to practice Monday to begin preparing for Cincinnati the following Sunday.

Jesse from Marlboro, NJ:
What do you think the team’s reasoning would be for keeping Chris Ivory as the No. 2 behind Leonard Fournette over T.J. Yeldon? I think Yeldon is the far superior back. Better at pass pro, better at receiving, much better vision and patience. Ivory seems to get the ball and run right into the back of one of his offensive linemen. Yeldon is also much younger, and cheaper. Let T.J. play!

John: Well, one fer Yeldon, but the better back between Yeldon and Ivory is more preference and opinion than hard fact. Ivory is a power back – similar to Fournette but obviously not in that league. Yeldon indeed is more patient with an emphasis on vision. I do think Yeldon’s performance will have coaches consider using him at times as a complement to Fournette, but they also like the idea of having two pound-the-defense backs to wear down defenses.

John from Edmonton:
All criticisms and compliments of this team aside, this season so far has been fun. The fans needed some fun.

John: Winning is cool. Fans seem to like it.

Joey from Athens, GA:
O-Man, it was refreshing to see Blake Bortles throw some great passes. What I’ve been worried about since the preseason though is that the coaching staff will think he is good enough to keep as QB1 for next season, but he is bad enough to where he is inconsistent with the passing game and keeps turning the ball over too much.

John: I’m sorry you’re worried. Worrying can be … well, worrisome. Though I get more than a few emails a week about this topic, I don’t know that there’s much about which to fret. There’s no negative to Bortles playing as well as he possible can this season, and remember: he has played well enough for the team to win four games and to have had a very good chance to win two more. Success can come with this formula. After the season, the team can figure out what to do to add to the formula to find more moving forward. Maybe that will mean a change at quarterback and maybe not. It seems the odds favor a change, but we’ll see.

Gene from Jacksonville:
The only unanswered question about our defensive line is this: are Campbell, Jackson, Ngakoue, Fowler and Jones better than Barksdale, Ketchum, Donahoo, Wyse and Barnett?

John: Similar to Bird versus Magic, this indeed is a question for the ages.

Antony from Columbia, SC:
I know many Jags fans see Ramsey as the best player on the defense, but Calais Campbell is better. The guy can play every position on the D-Line. He leads the league in sacks, and he’s on pace to get 23 sacks on the season. One fer Calais?

John: Campbell is really good. He’s playing at a high level. His importance to the team on and off the field is beyond question. He probably is as important to the defense as Ramsey, but to say he is better than Ramsey? That’s tough. Ramsey’s a different beast, an elite talent – possibly a Canton guy. But hey … one fer Campbell. No doubt.

Ryan from Fremont, OH:
The Giants call, and offer a second round pick for Yeldon. Do you do it?

John: Sure, why not?

Nick from Kingsland, GA:
John, how do you see the Jacksonville secondary matching up against AJ Green? Do you think Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye will stick to their respective sides of the field, or do you see Ramsey following Green around for the day? I’m not a fan of the size advantage Green has over Bouye, but on the other hand Bouye has proven capable of holding his own. This will be a fun match up to watch. Hopefully I have enough bourbon to get me through the bye!

John: This answer will depend on the situation. The Jaguars this season are playing a mix of zone and man-to-man coverage, with perhaps a bit more zone than they have played in the past. When they have played man, Ramsey typically has followed the best receiver all over the field. I would expect him to shadow Green in a similar fashion. What’s significant isn’t as much that Ramsey is shadowing the opponent’s top receiver; it’s that you don’t really notice when he’s not doing that. Bouye is playing that well – and indeed the entire secondary is playing that well. They’re that good.

Chad from Everbank:
JO, I love you man. Not in the type of way that I want to date you. You’ve got too many issues for me to handle, and my wife wouldn’t appreciate that competition. Rather, I love you because I can always count on you for a laugh. Thanks for all that you do. Thanks for always being here. Thanks for always being honest. We’ve seen how you handled our team on the down cycle of things. Here’s hoping that changes and we can see what the inbox, and your reactions, are when the team is on the up-cycle. Here’s to wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas.

John: The bye is coming at a good time.
 

 

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Ask Vic: Can’t play around the quarterback

Let’s take a whirl around the NFL:

  • The Rams are for real and might be the new power in the NFC West.
  • No team plays with the reckless abandon the Steelers do. A pass out of punt formation by a reserve defensive back with the Steelers clinging to a lead in the fourth quarter? It’s sheer Nutsville, but it worked.
  • The Bengals should be ashamed of their second-half performance in Pittsburgh. It was meek.
  • What has happened to Marcus Mariota?
  • The Bears just might have a magic wand. They’re in the hunt.
  • If the Vikings get any kind of dependable play at quarterback, they’re the team to beat in the NFC North.
  • A Jags fan asked me if the team should trade for a quarterback before the deadline expires. I couldn’t help but think of Joe Flacco, which made me chuckle since the Jaguars traded up in the 2008 draft and the Ravens used the Jags’ pick to move down and select Flacco. No, the Jags shouldn’t trade for a quarterback. Just stay the course.
  • The Chargers are going to make a major move up my power rankings on Thursday.
  • Green Bay lost to a very good team on Sunday. The Saints are for real.
  • Cam Newton creates distractions for himself with his ongoing flap with the media.
  • Kudos to referee Bill Vinovich’s crew for keeping their flags in their pockets in the Bengals-Steelers game. It made for delightful viewing.

Lori from Brookfield, WI
Vic, what does Green Bay need to do to help Brett Hundley be successful?
I thought the Packers did as much on Sunday. The bottom line is it’s nearly impossible to play around your quarterback and win in today’s game. Twelve of 25 for 87 yards and an interception won’t get it done. For the Packers to stay alive in the playoff race, they need to get more production out of the quarterback position. They can’t play scared at sports’ most important position. He’s “The Man,” whether you have him or not. The Packers ran the ball well. Their defense forced a couple of turnovers early that set the tone. Special teams made a major contribution. What we found out on Sunday is how the other half has been living through all the years Packers fans have enjoyed watching Aaron Rodgers and Brett Favre tilt the field in Green Bay’s favor. Sunday, it tilted the other way.

Barb from Salem, OR
Coach McCarthy was quick to take the blame for the performance in the second half. What I saw was an entire team that failed to put together a solid performance. Were his words meant for his young QB?
His are the words of a leader.

Jeff from Asheville, NC
I think I speak for all Packers fans when I say I’m ready for the bye week. How did you spend the bye week during your career?
By going to work every day.

Eric from Colorado Springs, CO
So, who is the lead horse in the race of blame? McCarthy and the conservative play calling, Brett Hundley and his execution, the referees and penalties, or the announcers not being pro-Packer enough? I’ve got to know who is to blame for my sadness this week before I can move on to Monday?
Anthony Barr is to blame. I also think we’re to blame. My inbox last week had a weird tone to it. It was almost as though fans were looking forward to a change at quarterback, as if the new guy would be better. I sensed it in the crowd on Sunday. There was excitement in the air. I think Packers fans set themselves up for disappointment. Hey, Drew Brees was the other quarterback. Let’s get real.

Betty from Flagstaff, AZ
Vic, I would like your opinion on the top three things a successful football team needs to develop and sustain to become a Super Bowl champion.
Coach, quarterback and a system for acquiring and developing/utilizing talent.

Kris from Stockbridge, WI
As help isn’t on the way, what positive things did you see in the Packers on Sunday to give reason for hope this season?
They played with a sense of urgency. I felt as though they elevated their game.

Colin from Plymouth, UK
Aaron Jones looked like the present and future at running back. Has he done enough to secure the starting running back position from here on out?
I was asked a similar question about Ty Montgomery last season. There is no such thing as from here on out. Jones has done enough to be the starter in the immediate future. I think he’s a good-looking back.

Trace from Edisto Island, SC
What is your grade for Hundley?
He wasn’t good enough. I think he was more focused on not committing turnovers than he was on making plays. I think that’s to be expected of a quarterback making his first start, especially a quarterback replacing the best quarterback in the game. I think Brett Hundley needs to let it rip in the next game. Play to win, not to avoid losing. He has the talent to make plays. I think you’ll see a different player in the next game. I think more will be demanded of him. It has to be that way.

Tim from Jacksonville, FL
The Steelers recently did a fashion show. Describe for us what a fashion show would look like if done by the Steelers of the ’70s.
Frenchy Fuqua would be dressed as a French count, replete with a swashbuckling hat, cape, cane and high-heel shoes. The top of the cane and each of the high heels would be made of glass and filled with water, and a goldfish would be swimming in each. I’m not kidding. He wore that outfit. Frenchy is one of the most colorful players I’ve ever covered. I remember interviewing him in his training camp dorm room, where he smoked cigarettes from a long-stemmed, jewel-studded cigarette holder.

Jon from Bloomfield, NJ
Vic, did you see the Bears won with Mitchell Trubisky throwing seven passes? Remember any good games from before the chuck rule when the winning QB threw seven passes?
I covered the Steelers in 1976 when they won nine consecutive games following the infamous Turkey Jones hit that sidelined Terry Bradshaw and left the Steelers to play with a rookie quarterback named Mike Kruczek. Kruczek needed to do little more than hand off to Franco Harris and Rockey Bleier, as the “Steel Curtain” turned in the greatest defensive performance I have ever seen. In the final nine games of the season, the Steelers scored five shutouts and allowed a total of 28 points. Those days are over. You can’t sustain winning with a handoff machine in today’s game.

Mike from North Hudson, WI
Vic, how do you see the Packers season playing out?
If Mike McCarthy wasn’t the coach, I’d have reason for grave concern. Coach McCarthy will find a way to keep the Packers in the hunt.

Jesse from Anaconda, MT
What does Coach McCarthy mean when he says he didn’t let Hundley get comfortable in the pocket?
It means he tried to play the game for him. He was overly protective of his young quarterback. It won’t work. He has to let him play. Players, not plays.

Gary from Murrieta, CA
Vic, Colin Kaepernick had a contract with the 49ers and walked away. Doesn’t that weaken his case with the NFL?
He opted for free agency because the new coach and general manager made it clear Kaepernick did not fit in their plans. John Lynch was quoted as saying as much.

Scott from Hamlin, NY
To me, surgery for the collarbone on the throwing shoulder sounds like no chance to come back for the playoffs. What have your years of journalism taught you about these injuries?
I’ve always sought the advice of the medical profession and training people. Former Jaguars trainer Mike Ryan, whose information I’ve always relied, recently described in his blog Aaron Rodgers’ surgery and prospects for recovery. I think you’ll enjoy the read: http://www.mikeryansportsmedicine.com/closer-look-at-aaron-rodgers-clavicle-fracture/

 

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Ask Vic: Power rankings and thoughts on Hundley

Here’s this week’s power rankings: 1. Eagles – Powerful defense. 2. Patriots – Beginning to hit their stride. 3. Panthers – Little girl with the curl. 4. Falcons – Better than their record. *5. Steelers – They can be special. 6. Rams – Beginning to build something. 7. Chiefs – Defense exposed as soft. 8. Saints – Look out Packers. 9. Packers – Season lost on one play? 10. Lions – Clobbered in New Orleans. 11. Redskins – They’re growing on me. 12. Texans – Houston does not have a problem. 13. Seahawks – Ready to make a move. 14. Dolphins – Looked great in Atlanta. 15. Bills – Can they find more offense? 16. Broncos – Headed for a fall. 17. Vikings – They’ll go as far as defense can take them. 18. Cowboys – Elliott is becoming a distraction. *19. Bengals – Look out Steelers. 20. Cardinals – Finally making a move? 21. Bucs – Defense falling apart. 22. Jaguars – Win over Steelers a fluke. 23. Bears – Trubisky showing upside. 24. Ravens – These Ravens are soft. 25. Titans – Nothing special here. 26. Colts – Future growing dim. 27. Jets – Not a contender. 28. Raiders – Chance to move up tonight. 29. Chargers – I’m on the verge of becoming a believer. 30. Giants – Impressive win in Denver. 31. 49ers – On the verge of winning. 32. Browns – Not on the verge of anything. *This week’s game for mature audiences only.

Lori from Brookfield, WI
Vic, what is your opinion of Brett Hundley as a quarterback?

He passes the eye test. That’s all we know at this point. Can he play with poise and courage? That’s what we’ll find out over the next several weeks. He’s going to face every blitz known to man. Will he keep his eyes focused downfield? That’s the No. 1 question I need to answer about any young quarterback.

Matt from Lincoln City, OR
Just found the blog and I feel like I once again have a sports column to read. If Green Bay keeps the postseason streak going this season, do you see Brett Hundley fetching a first-rounder?

If Hundley leads the Packers to the postseason, he becomes the Packers’ quarterback of the future. Aaron Rodgers will turn 34. It’s not too soon to begin thinking of the future, especially considering Rodgers’ injury is to his throwing arm.

Paul from Chicago, IL
Vic, I remember reading your columns during the 2013 season when you wrote for the Packers, after Rodgers broke his left collarbone. I remember feeling lost at the time, like the season was over. Looking back through the 2013 season, it was one of my favorite seasons. What are your memories of that season?

My memories are of the daily drama. Would Rodgers play in the next game? It was a reporter’s dream. Every day was a repeat of the previous day, but it was still news. It was a seven-week drum roll. And then the cymbals crashed, and it was so very worth the wait. I likened the season finale in Chicago to “The Natural.” When the ball fell into Randall Cobb’s hands, I think I saw the lights explode. The 2013 season is one of my all-time favorites.

Jeffro from Kenosha, WI
I was surprised to hear McCarthy call the hit on Rodgers dirty/illegal. As much as I hate the outcome, it looked like good football to me. You?

It was a little late, but nothing flagrant. I saw much worse in the Steelers-Chiefs game later that afternoon.

Kenneth from Hell, Norway
Hi, just wondering what you think about Colin Kaepernick. I mean, when I watched him run for 181 yards in that 2013 playoff game, I thought to myself this guy will be the next big star. Now that solid 49ers team is gone and so is he. What really happened?

He has a long-arm release that telegraphs his throws, which made it critically important to learn to look-off defenders. I don’t think he developed that skill. The last time I covered him, he was still staring down receivers. As a runner, defenses were making him be a passer, which I predicted would happen.

Hugh from Sioux Falls, SD
With Rodgers now gone, the field no longer tilts. I’m finding parity has knocked expectations out of my vocabulary. Watch the game and appreciate the skills of some very well-trained and committed young men. Is this what perspective is all about? If so, it sure is better for my blood pressure.

I’m getting this crazy sense Packers fans are almost relieved they don’t have to worry about going to the Super Bowl anymore. If it’s come to that, then expectations have created pressure that’s crippling fans’ ability to enjoy the game. If you’re reading this and you think I’m describing you, it’s time to achieve perspective.

Greg from Danbury, CT
Kaepernick made us think? Has anyone said anything thoughtful about police brutality since Kaepernick first remained seated? Has any congressman, governor or president initiated so much as a bake sale to do anything about disparity in our justice system? I’m afraid Kaepernick has exposed our soft underbelly: We simply don’t care. This veteran mourns for his country.

Kaepernick’s message has gotten lost in the anthem uproar. John Carlos and Tommie Smith did it the right way.

J.G. from Silver Spring, MD
Vic, so glad I found your new site. Believe it or not, I still have an original “Ask Vic” mug from your Jaguars days, in mint condition!

I have one, too. One word of warning: Don’t put it in the dishwasher. There are reports of the words washing off the outside of the mug.

Kris from Stockbridge, WI
And when they say it’s not about the money, that’s when it’s really about the money.

George Young was talking about football players, not sportswriters.

Don from Roscoe, IL
Where’s the limit for a QB like Brett Hundley? I mean, unlike our president, Brett has huge hands.

Phenomenal, tremendous. He’s a great quarterback. Believe me, you’re gonna love him.

Devin from Portland, OR
Vic, we do not have a large NFL sample size on which to base our opinions of Brett Hundley. As someone who has covered the team, I would expect you have a better understanding of his strengths and weaknesses than a typical fan, especially as they have evolved during his time in Green Bay. That said, what do you believe are some of his strengths and weaknesses? In what ways will McCarthy tailor the offense to play to his strengths?

His weakness is he’s inexperienced. His strength is his coach is a true believer in the West Coast offense, and what we’re going to see is a shift in the Packers offense from extend the play to get it out quick and on time. Truth be known, Aaron Rodgers is not a true West Coast quarterback. He’s too talented to be restricted to a three-step-drop, throw-it-away mentality. McCarthy will arm Hundley with a game plan that will protect him from the rush and demand little more than an accurate, intermediate range pass.

​Dave from Saint Peters, MO
Vic, what is your take on protecting the QB, in light of how Aaron Rodgers was injured? It seemed the act of taking two steps after the ball was released, then leaving one’s feet and applying full body weight on the QB as he goes to the ground, serves only one purpose, injuring him. I like toughness, but I don’t like hurting people for the sake of hurting them.

Come on, he wasn’t trying to do that. Anthony Barr was playing football, just as Clay Matthews plays football. I don’t like the whining and crying I’m seeing about this play. How do you protect the quarterback? I said it years ago: Let him spike the ball to avoid a sack. If he chooses to extend the play, you’re on your own, big guy.

Steve from Minocqua, WI
Vic, just what is Colin Kaepernick trying to accomplish with his collusion lawsuit? His sideline protest made him a pariah that apparently no team will touch, and now he hopes to dismantle the CBA? What is your take on the situation?

He’s trying to get money, just as the baseball players did in the 1980s when they won a collusion suit that resulted in owners paying the players $280 million. Kaepernick is going to win, just as the baseball players won and Connie Hawkins won against the NBA.

Neal from Cheddar, UK
Steelers win, but is Big Ben still going to be chiming next year?

I think this is his final season. Fourteen seasons is a long time to play football, especially when you’ve been battered as he has been.


 

 

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