The answer is what it has always been: it depends on how the players are playing.

The basics of Capers 3-4 are not hard to figure out: control the run first, get teams into predictable down-and-distance scenarios (more simply: make them 1 dimensional passing team) and then unleash Blitzburg style defenses.

We really did not do a great job of controlling the run. We did, however, have CM3 coming up huge and a pass-rush early on clicking enough to get the Bears into predictable down-and-distance scenarios. That makes it pretty easy to call a more aggressive defense.

Frankly, I'm surprised at people wanting Capers fired. He is pretty good at what he does. However, if his team cannot actually do the necessary things to play an aggressive style, you're going to see a struggling defense. Which we saw last year.

Even after tonight's performance, I'm concerned about our run D. It still needs to improve if we have any shot against other elite NFC teams. We cannot be giving up 4+ yards a carry and expect solid Defensive performances. I hope that, as the year goes on, Perry and Walden can continue to set good edges against the run, and, most importantly, our D-linemen do their jobs at a high level against the competition. I have some confidence in the former, but am highly suspect about the latter; time will tell.

However, I'm much more concerned with our offense. Benson coming on is a big asset, but for the love of all that is right in this world I cannot figure out why we do not call more short routes and slants to force Safties closer to the LOS. Hell, exploit the middle of the field more with players like Cobb. You've essentially got two TEs that can play as WRs, allowing you to use Cobb's versatility more. I'm not sure what McCarthy is thinking - but I grow more concerned with each quarter that he is counting on the big play to eventually develop and kick start our O. Kind of like a couple of years ago when he was intent on force feeding Finley to the detriment of Jennings. His stubbornness - if what this is an example of - is concerning. Use the variety in your playbook - short completions, slant routes, completions over middle of the field - to force the safties closer, thereby opening up more stuff deep.

Originally Posted by: all_about_da_packers 

However, I'm much more concerned with our offense. Benson coming on is a big asset, but for the love of all that is right in this world I cannot figure out why we do not call more short routes and slants to force Safties closer to the LOS. Hell, exploit the middle of the field more with players like Cobb. You've essentially got two TEs that can play as WRs, allowing you to use Cobb's versatility more. I'm not sure what McCarthy is thinking - but I grow more concerned with each quarter that he is counting on the big play to eventually develop and kick start our O. Kind of like a couple of years ago when he was intent on force feeding Finley to the detriment of Jennings. His stubbornness - if what this is an example of - is concerning. Use the variety in your playbook - short completions, slant routes, completions over middle of the field - to force the safties closer, thereby opening up more stuff deep.

Originally Posted by: all_about_da_packers 

I'm starting to worry that Arodge might be pulling a Favre. Always wanting to go deep. Taking the risky throw.

Originally Posted by: nerdmann 

Other people have brought up the major problem I have with the shots we're taking downfield... That it's often on third and 1 or 2 around midfield, and then we don't go for it on 4th down. It seems as though McCarthy is more willing to just punt it away this year. Maybe that's because of a lack of confidence that our defense can hold the opposing offense from a shortened field, maybe it's something else. But I really hate punting from the 50, opponent's 45 on 4th and 1 after taking a shot downfield on 3rd, especially since Masthay rarely seems to be able to pin them within the 10. The man's got a monster leg, but the ball always seems to bounce forwards.

Originally Posted by: Porforis 

I'm starting to worry that Arodge might be pulling a Favre. Always wanting to go deep. Taking the risky throw.

Originally Posted by: nerdmann 

What makes you so sure McCarthy isn't calling those plays often, but Rodgers is changing the plays or simply making bad reads? I'm starting to think Rodger's has become less patient this season.

Originally Posted by: doddpower 

Actually it seems the answer is "it depends on if Jarrett Bush is playing."

Amazing how well the DBs were with that scrub not on the field.

Originally Posted by: tromadz 

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Originally Posted by: dfosterf