Day of ‘Gunslingers’ is Past

Posted on | June 21, 2009 | 3 Comments | by BigSnakeMan

An article about Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers in this morning’s Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel made a point of noting how Rodgers would be facing added pressure in 2009 with the addition of former Denver quarterback Jay Cutler to the Bears and the inevitable arrival of the great and powerful Brett Favre in Minnesota.  Despite all the angst these developments have engendered in Packerland, I see this as a good thing.  Success in the NFL depends on protecting the ball and Rodgers was better at that last year than his more heralded competition.

Rodgers, who’s confidence level may not yet be of Ryan Braun-esque proportions, nonetheless proved that he was mentally tough through last season’s trials and tribulations.  That experience can only help to serve him and the Packers going forward.

As for their rivals in the NFC North division, fans in Chicago and Minnesota may well discover that the reality of September through December won’t match the optimism of July.

All the hype surrounding Cutler’s appearance in Chicago is helping to mask the idea that the trade was basically an act of desperation by the Bears.  And perhaps a misguided one at that.  Much like the Packers last year, many of the Bears struggles in 2008 were predicated by a defense that couldn’t stop teams in critical situations.  The acquisition of Cutler represents a significant change in offensive philosphy by the Bears; one that might not be so easily managed.  Traditionally, Chicago’s offense has been built on the running game and ball control.  Cutler’s history suggests that he will take more chances with ball that will likely result in more turnovers that put their defense in disadvantageous positions.  And, given the nature of his departure from Denver, there are still questions about his maturity level and leadership ability.

Much in the same vein, Favre’s ascension in Minneapolis has the potential to create as many problems as it purportedly solves.  Already, reports out of Minnesota hint at trouble in the locker room at the mere thought of Favre joining the team.  Many Viking fans see him as the missing piece to the alleged championship puzzle that has been assembled in Minnesota.  Here again, though, history shows that may not be the case.  Convential wisdom suggests that, with the Vikings defense and running game, all they need is a quarterback to manage the game and make an occasional play to keep defenses honest.  But that would be playing against type for Favre, who’s instincts would eventually get the better of him to the Vikings detriment.  Favre contends that his familiarity with the Vikings system will make him more effective than he was in New York but, like Cutler in Chicago, he will be throwing to receivers who remain largely unproven.

Meanwhile, back in Green Bay, reports coming out of minicamp are saying that head coach Mike McCarthy will open up more of the playbook now that his starting quarterback has a year of experience under his belt.  So, while rivals Favre and Cutler under the best of conditions will still be facing transitional seasons, Rodgers should get better in his second year under center.  That can only work to the Packers advantage.

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