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Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 31

Sun, 31 Dec 2006 19:26:02 CST

OK, I'll start with the injuries. Cullen Jenkins was hit in the face. He returned. Nick Collins had a thigh. He also returned. And Zac Alcorn got the wind knocked out of him. He also returned. So we had no significant injuries. And with that I'll take your questions.

(Did Favre say that was it, to you?)
No he didn't. How about the game? It was a hell of a game out there tonight, wasn't it?

(Nice way to finish the season?)
Great way to finish the season. I can't say enough positive things about our football team, especially the defense, six takeaways today. I thought they were outstanding, and it was great to see that group really come together down the stretch. Offensively we did a number of positive things, just had the one takeaway. And I thought our coverage units on special teams were outstanding. So very thrilled with the victory. Finished 5-1 in the division, four in a row, so we feel outstanding about that as we move forw..

Packers-Bears Press Box Notes

Sun, 31 Dec 2006 12:42:50 CST

TONIGHT: Winners of three straight, the Packers have played their way onto prime-time, their first foray into flexible scheduling. The league announced Christmas night that the Packers and Bears would kick off the NFL's final regular-season game, on NBC...Having overcome a 1-4 start, and a 4-8 mark as recently as Dec. 3, the Packers have remained in contention for the playoffs entering the final weekend of Mike McCarthy's first season as head coach...For the second time in three years, the Packers close the regular season at Soldier Field...Green Bay is 11-1 (.917) over its previous 12 regular-season finales, the league's best mark since 1994. The Packers have won three straight season-enders, including Jan. 2, 2005, at Chicago...The Packers haven't lost consecutive games at Soldier Field since 1990-91. Green Bay had won 12 straight at the stadium - and 13 straight series road games, including 2002 at Champaign - until the Packers came up on the short end of a 19-7 decision last Decem..

Four Packers Punt, Pass And Kick Winners Advance To National Championship

Sat, 30 Dec 2006 12:37:02 CST

CHAMPIONSHIP SET FOR WEEKEND OF JAN. 13-14 AT NFC PLAYOFF SITE

The Green Bay Packers learned this week that four winners from the Nov. 19 team championship NFL Punt, Pass and Kick competition in Green Bay will compete for a national title the weekend of Jan. 13-14 at a yet-to-be-determined NFC Divisional Playoff game.

Representing the Packers and competing for titles will be Mikayla Hilton (a former national finalist), Saukville, in the girls 10/11 division; Aleeah Baker, Superior, in the girls 14/15 division; Logan Weckerly, Monroe, in the boys 8/9 division; and Lucas Weiss, River Falls, in the boys 14/15 division.

Each competitor placed in the top four nationally in his or her respective age group, earning the opportunity to compete in the PPK National Finals and receive an all-expenses-paid trip, including the competitor and two guests, to the competition. The eight first place winners will be announced on air during the third and fourth quarter. ..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 29

Fri, 29 Dec 2006 14:32:20 CST

OK, I'll start with the injury report. Everybody practiced today except for Donald Driver. He's still probable with the shoulder. I anticipate him going. We held Scott Wells (out) today, but he's probable -- he will also go Sunday night -- with a shoulder. With that, I will take your questions.

(When did Scott hurt his shoulder?)
It's something that's just been lingering, and frankly just to get the other young guys work. With the extra day of practice, Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday, I thought it was smart on our part.

(Who's your backup there?)
Center? Jason Spitz.

(You usually want guys to practice on Friday. Is everything OK with Driver?)
It's a combination, just giving Donald extra time to get ready, and to rep the younger guys, because we do have a lot of youth there with Carlyle and Chris Francies and so forth.

(Are you worried about Driver getting knocked out of the game with the sh..

Packers Give Six Jr. Community Quarterback Awards

Thu, 28 Dec 2006 13:59:16 CST
The Green Bay Packers recently awarded six grants from its Jr. Community Quarterback Awards program to individuals and the groups with which they are affiliated.

A total of $6,000 was awarded to groups this year.

The Green Bay Packers Jr. Community Quarterback Awards program, with $1,000 grants, is designed to honor high school and college students (ages 13 to 21) who exemplify leadership, dedication, creativity and a commitment to improving the communities in which they live through volunteerism. Potential recipients are required to partner with an established organization within the community. Applications were submitted by eligible individuals or groups of young people who created a new community betterment project or are working to sustain a project they already initiated. Such individuals or groups may be nominated by others as well.

The grant recipients, projects and community af..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 27

Wed, 27 Dec 2006 15:37:14 CST
OK - injury report: Everybody practiced except for Donald Driver, Charles Woodson and Ahman Green. Their injuries are the same; they're all probable for the game.

(Did Clifton sit out some reps?)
No, he took his share of reps.

(Did you notice any added bonus in practice with the extra rest and practice yesterday?)
I would say yes. We primarily focused on base concepts and fundamentals yesterday, so the transition was smoother. We didn't have as many repeats and things like that. Yes, I think we benefited mentally from an extra day of practice.

(By the time you start Sunday, you'll know whether it's meaningful or meaningless - do you like that?)
It's a meaningful game regardless. It's the Green Bay Packers versus the Bears, and that's the way we're viewing it. I'm not naive to the fact that everybody will be playing close attention and it will be public knowledge. Those are things we can't control. ..

Packers DE Aaron Kampman Named NFC Defensive Player Of The Week

Wed, 27 Dec 2006 12:12:03 CST
Defensive end AARON KAMPMAN of the Green Bay Packers, running back STEVEN JACKSON of the St. Louis Rams and kicker ROBBIE GOULD of the Chicago Bears are the NFC Defensive, Offensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played the 16th week of the 2006 season (December 21, 23-25), the NFL announced Wednesday.

DEFENSE: DE AARON KAMPMAN, GREEN BAY PACKERS
Playing in front of a national audience on Thursday night, Kampman helped the Packers stay alive in the NFC playoff hunt as Green Bay defeated the Minnesota Vikings 9-7. Kampman had a team-best seven tackles, tied his career-high with 3.0 sacks and added a game-high four quarterback hurries. The Packers defense held Minnesota to three first-downs and 104 total net yards, including just 27 net passing yards. The five-year veteran had 2.0 sacks in the first half, both on third-down plays that forced the Vikings to punt. Kampman's third sack came on Minnesota's final drive of the game with 1:28 remaining..

Download The Packers-Bears Week 17 Dope Sheet

Tue, 26 Dec 2006 08:35:15 CST
Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Click here to download The Dope Sheet (PDF)

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-Winners of three straight, the Packers have played their way onto prime-time, their first foray into flexible scheduling. The league announced last night that the Packers and Bears would kick off the NFL's final regular-season game, New Year's Eve on NBC.

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 26

Tue, 26 Dec 2006 14:28:31 CST
OK, I do not have an injury report today. I'll give that to you tomorrow. But nothing has really changed since the game. So with that I'll take your questions.

(Starting and finishing the regular season against the Bears, do you look at this game as a measuring stick for how far you have come this year?)
I think if you just view the film and watch the performance of the Packers in the first game and now watched us play of late, because it's always interesting, we went through it to weeks ago with Detroit, you could see the progress particularly individual players have made. But also we had some things we did a lot better at the beginning of the year that we're not doing very well right now. So as far as a measuring stick overall on the year, I think it's important to take all 16 games, but there's a lot of elements of our play through all three phases we have definitely improved on since Week 1.

(What do you think you were doing better earli..

Packers-Bears To Be NBC Sunday Night Game On Dec. 31

Mon, 25 Dec 2006 23:26:34 CST
The Week 17 Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears game on Sunday, December 31 will be played at 7:15 PM CT on NBC, the Buffalo Bills at Baltimore Ravens and Miami Dolphins at Indianapolis Colts games will move to 3:15 PM CT on CBS and the Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles game will move to 3:15 PM CT on FOX, the NFL announced Monday. Following is the final Week 17 NFL schedule (asterisk and bold/italics represents changed game time):

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 (SEVENTEENTH WEEKEND)
N.Y. GIANTS AT WASHINGTON
8:00 PM (ET)
NFLN

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31
PITTSBURGH AT CINCINNATI
1:00 PM (ET)
CBS

DETROIT AT DALLAS
12:00 PM (CT)
FOX

CLEVELAND AT HOUSTON
12:00 PM (CT)
CBS

JACKSONVILLE AT KANSAS CITY
12:00 PM (CT)
CBS

ST. LOUIS AT MINNESOTA
12:00 PM (CT)
FOX

CAROLINA AT NEW ORLEANS
12:00 PM (CT)
FOX

OAKLAND AT N.Y. JETS
1:00 PM (ET)
CBS

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 22

Fri, 22 Dec 2006 13:04:07 CST
OK, injuries, nothing's really changed from last night. Charles Woodson with the shoulder. Donald Driver also has a thigh along with his shoulder injury, and we'll re-evaluate him Tuesday. With that I'll take your questions.

(The guys are entirely off until Tuesday? What do you hope to gain by giving the time off?)
Yes. Well, really to get their bodies back, from a professional standpoint. But personally, I think it's very unique the schedule we've had this year. To have the ability to be off for Thanksgiving and Christmas, that's something that will probably never happen again in our careers. It doesn't hurt our preparation for Chicago. We're still going to have an extra day to get ready for the Bears. I thought it was a good opportunity to let the players get out of here, and especially with the traveling on the holidays, I thought it was important to give them that extra day.

(Will guys do any workouts?)
Our guys will run. We..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 21

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 15:21:30 CST
(How satisfying is this win?)
It's very satisfying. The rivalry speaks for itself. I know it was tied going into the game, so now we're up one. That's a nice feeling. It's a game our players and our fans really look forward to. I don't know how many times it's come down to a field goal, so it's great to come out of there with a victory. The adversity we had to overcome, particularly at the end, I'm just very proud of our football team.

(What do you make of a game where you out-gain them 3-to-1 but look up at the scoreboard and it's still close?)
That's why the most important statistic is the scoreboard. We did a lot of positive things, but when you have as many opportunities as we did in the red zone, and you don't come out with more than three points, it's just a matter of time before that momentum may go against you. Very happy, very pleased, very proud of our defense; they stayed the course. They did not budge for 60 minutes, and I d..

Packers And American Family Insurance Raise $435,000 For Fight Against Heart Disease

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 17:33:13 CST
The Green Bay Packers and American Family Insurance today announced eight recipients of funds raised in the Packers Heart Cap campaign, an effort that has sold approximately 87,000 red caps to date and raised $435,000.

Eight Wisconsin organizations will receive $54,375 each for their efforts involving heart disease research, prevention and support, along with additional money raised by the ongoing cap sales.

"We're very pleased today to announce the recipients of the proceeds from the red cap campaign," said Packers President/COO John Jones. "Heart disease touches so many people in our lives. These organizations are performing great work, whether it is in the research field, educating people on prevention measures or supporting those afflicted. We're proud to make these donations to further advance their efforts. We also thank all the Packers fans who supported the program and proudly wear their red caps."

"American Family Insurance is proud to take part in..

Packers-Vikings Press Box Notes

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 17:22:14 CST
TONIGHT: Fifty-three years after the Packers first appeared on national television, the franchise makes its debut on an eighth network - the NFL Network...Green Bay is playing a prime-time game in December at Lambeau Field for the fourth time in the last five seasons...The Packers play a late-season, prime-time home game vs. Minnesota for the fourth time in the past seven years (also 2000, 2002, 2005).

JACKSON IS NO. 201: Minnesota's Tavaris Jackson tonight will make his first NFL start and become the 201st other quarterback to start an NFL game since Brett Favre launched his current streak, Sept. 27, 1992 (Elias Sports Bureau). Cleveland's Derek Anderson, two weeks ago on NFL Network at Pittsburgh, became No. 200.

Entering the week, each team's number of starting quarterbacks during the 15-season stretch, which reaches 236 regular-season games tonight:
Arizona/Phoenix - 17
Atlanta - 13
Baltimore - 14
Buffalo - 9
Carolina - ..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 20

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 13:50:24 CST
As far as the injury report, everybody participated today, so everybody's status will stay the same.

(Tauscher good to go?)
Yeah, he looked good, as far as his recovery from yesterday. That was the key. So I think he'll be fine.

(He'll start?)
Correct, yes.

(Is Jags in the building today?)
Jags is in the building today. We just walked off the practice field. But he will be en route to Boston College and he'll be there this evening and come right back.

(He's not working on some lousy, fake Boston accent, is he?)
No, not that I'm aware of.

(Is this a tough thing to adjust to this week?)
Well, it really hasn't been tough at all for us. He's participated in all his job responsibilities that he's done every week. We've stayed right on schedule.

(Do you anticipate him staying here the rest of the season, including possible playoffs?)

Packers-Vikings Game Notes: Harlan To Receive In-Stadium Tribute Thursday Night

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 09:22:30 CST
Green Bay Packers Chairman Bob Harlan Thursday night will attend his final regular-season game at Lambeau Field as CEO of the storied franchise, and to honor the occasion, the team will salute him during the contest.

During the game's first commercial timeout, a brief video tribute will be played on the stadium's TundraVision replay boards.

A member of the Packers' front office for 36 years, Harlan became the team's ninth president in 1989 and will retire next May after 18 seasons leading the club.

He drove the revival of the Packers' on-field fortunes during the '90s with the hiring of Ron Wolf to oversee the club's football operations, a move which resulted in a victory in Super Bowl XXXI. A member of the Packers Hall of Fame, Harlan also played a central role in orchestrating the spectacular redevelopment of Lambeau Field.

***

Former Packers defensive lineman Santana Dotson, a member of the Super Bowl XXXI Championship team, will serve ..

Jeff Jagodzinski Named Boston College Head Football Coach

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 16:37:37 CST
Signs five-year contract to become BC's 33rd head coach

Boston College Director of Athletics Gene DeFilippo has announced that Jeff Jagodzinski has been named the Gregory P. Barber and Family Head Football Coach at Boston College.

Jagodzinski, who served this season as the offensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, has signed a five-year contract to become the 33rd head coach in the history of Boston College football. He will be introduced at a press conference at 7 p.m. Wednesday on the Boston College campus; the conference will be closed to the public but will be streamed live on the BC Athletics Website, www.bceagles.com.

"Jeff Jagodzinski is a tremendous fit for our football program," DeFilippo says. "He has respect for the outstanding tradition of BC football. He understands the mission of Boston College and the importance of academics to our program. He brings great personal integrity to the position and will continue to recruit scholar..

Driver, Kampman Earn 2007 NFL Pro Bowl Selections

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 15:16:10 CST
Represented by a standout player on each side of the ball, the Green Bay Packers learned Tuesday that Donald Driver and Aaron Kampman were named Pro Bowl selections by the National Football League.

Driver, a 6-foot, 190-pound wide receiver in his eighth year out of Alcorn State, becomes a two-time Pro Bowler, having also been honored in 2002. The NFC's current leader in receiving yards (1,173 - fourth in the NFL), Driver has tied a franchise record with his third consecutive 1,000-yard season, following Sterling Sharpe and Pro Hall of Famer James Lofton as one of three Packers to achieve that feat. In addition this year, Driver joined Sharpe as one of two players in team annals to reach 80 catches as many as three overall seasons.

A seventh-round choice in the 1999 NFL Draft (213th overall), Driver is one of the lowest-draft Pro Bowlers in team history. Only Larry McCarren (308) and Don Majkowski (255) were drafted lower overall. Driver also has seven touchdown rece..

Packers Award Junior Volunteer Stars Grants

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 16:23:08 CST
The Green Bay Packers recently awarded 10 grants from its Junior Volunteer Stars program.

The Junior Volunteer Stars is a program designed to promote community investment and volunteerism in children (ages 13 and younger) via small-level grants. These small-level grants must be used to finance a community improvement/volunteer project created and executed by the child or children.

This year, 10 projects were selected and each was awarded a $300 grant in the name of the non-profit organization, school, or religious organization sponsoring the project.

The grant recipients and their affiliations are as follows:
* Girl Scout Troop 633, Green Bay
* Girl Scout Troop 650, Green Bay
* Girl Scout Troop 561, Pulaski, Wis.
* Girl Scout Troop 509, Tomah, Wis.
* Girl Scout Troop 507, Wabeno, Wis.
* Rosemary School (fifth- and sixth-graders), Fredonia, Wis.
* St. Ma..

Download The Packers-Vikings Week 16 Dope Sheet

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 13:28:13 CST
Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Click here to download The Dope Sheet (PDF)

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-Green Bay makes its debut on the NFL Network. The rematch with the Vikings is only Green Bay's fourth Thursday night (non-Thanksgiving) prime-time appearance; one of the other three was at Minnesota (1994).

-In scheduling its late-season NFL Network pa..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 17

Sun, 17 Dec 2006 16:22:32 CST
OK, I'll start with the injuries from the game. Chad Clifton had a hamstring and a shoulder, but did return. Donald Driver hurt his shoulder again, but did return. Charles Woodson (had the) same thing; he had the shoulder injury again, but did return. Nick Collins also had a shoulder, but did return. David Martin has a rib injury again, did not return. Ahman Green has an ankle and did return.

(Win didn't look pretty, but I'm guessing you'll take it?)
All wins are good wins. We have a number of things we need to clean up, but I thought it was a very impressive performance by our defense. We need to get some things cleaned up on offense. I thought our coverage units and special teams did a very nice job - Drummond is a big-time returner. He was a focus for us this week. (I'm) very pleased with the victory, and our fans definitely deserved it. I thought they were outstanding, especially down the stretch in the fourth quarter.

(Can you talk ab..

Packers-Lions Press Box Notes

Sun, 17 Dec 2006 10:58:09 CST
TODAY: For the third straight season, and the fourth time in the past seven years, the Lions make a December visit to Lambeau Field...The Packers bid for their 16th consecutive home win over Detroit, including the 1994 playoffs. Green Bay has not lost to the Lions in Wisconsin since Dec. 15, 1991...Winners of four road games (4-3), the Packers attempt to corral an elusive win at home, where they're 1-5. Only two NFC teams - Chicago (6-1) and New Orleans (5-2) own better road records.

OLDEST RUSHING RECORDS: Ahman Green, who up to this point has averaged 78.8 yards per game, needs to average 79.0 over the final three contests to erase Pro Football?Hall of Famer Jim Taylor from the Packers' record book. Taylor (8,207) played his final Packers game in 1966, making his record 43 years old. Green (7,970) needs 238 yards to break Taylor's mark. The NFL's oldest franchise rushing marks:

Joe Perry - San Francisco 49ers - 7,344 - 1950-60, 63
Jim Brown - Cl..

Packers Place Montgomery On Injured Reserve, Re-Sign Francies

Sat, 16 Dec 2006 18:16:41 CST
The Green Bay Packers Saturday placed defensive end Michael Montgomery on injured reserve. Ted Thompson, Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations, announced the transaction.

To replace Montgomery on the active roster, the team re-signed wide receiver Chris Francies from its practice squad. Francies, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound rookie from Texas-El Paso, had spent seven weeks on the 53-man roster before rejoining the practice squad last week, when the team acquired wide receiver Carlyle Holiday. Francies had two catches for 16 yards in his first regular-season stint with the Packers.

Montgomery, the Packers' first of two choices in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft, sustained a knee injury during the practice week before the team's Dec. 10 victory at San Francisco. A 6-foot-5, 275-pound player out of Texas A&M, Montgomery finished the year with 21 tackles (15 solo), 11/2 sacks and one pass defensed.

Taking Francies' spot on..

Rich Barbera Named Ninth Member of Packers Fan Hall of Fame

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 14:18:08 CST
Rich Barbera of River Vale, N.J., was named the ninth member of the Green Bay Packers FAN Hall of Fame Friday. Packers President/COO John Jones made the announcement.

Barbera was nominated by his daughters, Shannon and Fallon Barbera, and was selected by fans from 10 finalists during a voting period that closed Dec. 8. Approximately 17,000 votes were cast.

In their letter nominating their father, the daughters said, "Rich will always be a loyal fan through thick and thin. At the age of 10, Rich made a bet with his uncle using his allowance that the Packers would beat the hometown New York Giants. The Packers did indeed beat the Giants, 37-0, resulting in Rich becoming a fan for life."

The daughters also said, "Who says you have to be from Wisconsin to be the biggest Packer fan? Certainly not our father, who has been a die-hard Packer fan for over 45 years. He is responsible for our Packer family and converting over 20 family and friends into Packer Backers...

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 15

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 09:48:59 CST
OK, I'll start with the injuries. We had three players who did not practice today. Atari Bigby, but he'll stay questionable with the hamstring. Ruvell Martin with the chest bruise, and Michael Montgomery. Everybody else practiced, and everybody else's status will stay the same. Scott Wells, we're going to remove him from the injury report. He's fine. He had an illness earlier in the week.

(Will Martin be downgraded?)
We're still going to see if he has a chance. Everybody else's status will stay the same, including Martin's.

(Either way are you considering promoting Francies?)
We're looking to promote one of the receivers if he does not go, yes. Francies probably would be the one.

(Can Ruvell run at all?)
Just because of the area of the bruise, it's a precaution more than anything. He feels fine. He did a lot of work the last two days, Wednesday and Thursday, in the pool. And then today he ran. He want..

LeRoy Butler To Serve As Honorary Captain Sunday; Country Music Artist K.C. Williams To Sign CDs At Pro Shop Saturday

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 14:13:59 CST
Former Packers defensive back LeRoy Butler, a member of the Super Bowl XXXI Championship team, will serve as honorary captain for Sunday's game against the Lions.

As part of the organization's season-long celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Super Bowl win, General Manager Ted Thompson has invited members of the 1996 team to serve as honorary captains for each of the Packers' home games.

Prior to Sunday's game, from 10:15 to 11 a.m., Butler will be visiting with fans on the Associated Bank Club Level, an area accessible to game attendees with private box or club seat tickets, as guest of the 'Alumni Meet and Greet.'

On Saturday, country music singer and Milwaukee native K.C. Williams will sign copies of his single, "Ol' Santa Claus Dun Got A Taste of Lambeau," at the Packers Pro Shop from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

His CD is available for purchase at the Pro Shop for $4.99.

Williams won the 2004 Texas River Award for Male Vocalist of the ye..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 13

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 17:04:34 CST
OK, I'll start with the injury report. Mike Montgomery did not practice today. He's declared out for the game. Mark Tauscher did not practice today. He is doubtful, probably try to do more with Mark at the end of the week. Atari Bigby did not practice. He's questionable with a hamstring. Donald Driver did not practice. He's questionable with a shoulder. David Martin did practice with his ribs condition. Ruvell Martin did not practice because of the chest bruise. He's questionable. Ben Taylor did practice. He still will be questionable. Ahman Green and Charles Woodson are on their normal program, Charles with the shoulder and Ahman with his knees. And Scott Wells was ill today and did not practice. With that I'll take your questions.

(What do you do about struggling at home as a coach? Is there anything you can physically do about it?)
It's been recommended to put them on the bus before the game and drive around the parking lot and pull in, but I don't thin..

Former GM Ron Wolf's Name Added To Lambeau Facade

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 17:22:15 CST
PACKERS HONOR HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO ORGANIZATION'S SUCCESS

Packers fans attending Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions will notice a new name on the stadium facade inside Lambeau Field: Ron Wolf, the Green Bay Packers' General Manager from 1991 to 2001. Packers Chairman/CEO Bob Harlan oversaw the name's installation Tuesday in the northeast corner of the stadium between the upper and lower indoor club seats.

Wolf has joined prominent company inside the hallowed stadium. While the former G.M. is not a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and thus not listed alongside the other former Packers as a member in Canton, Ohio, Harlan wanted to recognize him in a way that is befitting of his enormous legacy with the organization.

"Ron Wolf is a person that is vitally important in the history of this franchise, a select few that includes Curly Lambeau and Vince Lombardi," said Harlan. "We wanted to honor him in such a way that allows all our fans to know ..

Download The Packers-Lions Week 15 Dope Sheet

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 15:40:29 CST
Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Click here to download The Dope Sheet (PDF)

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-For the third straight season, and the fourth time in the past seven years, the Lions make a December visit to Lambeau Field.

-The Packers bid for their 16th consecutive home win over Detroit, including the 1994 playoffs. Green Bay has not lost to the Li..

Brett Favre Nominated For FedEx NFL Player Of The Week

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 09:26:21 CST
Click here to vote now!

Quarterbacks BRETT FAVRE of the Green Bay Packers, DREW BREES of the New Orleans Saints and STEVE MC NAIR of the Tennessee Titans are the finalists for FedEx Express NFL Player of the Week honors for games played on December 7, 10-11, while running backs WILLIE PARKER of the Pittsburgh Steelers, ARTOSE PINNER of the Minnesota Vikings and LA DAINIAN TOMLINSON of the San Diego Chargers are the finalists for FedEx Ground NFL Player of the Week honors, the NFL announced today.

Fans can vote for one player in each category on NFL.com from 9am EST on Tuesday through 12pm EST on Thursday to determine the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week. The winners will be announced Thursday afternoon on NFL.com.

In addition, NFL fans may cast their votes for the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week using Sprint or Nextel wireless service - an opportunity available only t..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 11

Mon, 11 Dec 2006 14:08:08 CST
Okay, I'll start with the injured players. Donald Driver had a shoulder, and we'll look at him and make a decision on his practice participation on Wednesday. Charles Woodson also had a shoulder. We'll probably treat him the same way we've been treating him with the Wednesday-Thursday schedule. Atari Bigby had a hamstring, and we'll re-evaluate him on Wednesday and see the significance of that. Greg Jennings had the ankle; I think we'll be fine there. Ruvell Martin had a chest bruise.

(Does Driver's injury bring his availability into question for this week?)
I don't think so knowing Donald and his history. He really sucked it up yesterday coming back, so we'll see. I anticipate him missing Wednesday, and we'll see how he feels Thursday.

(Is Ruvell Martin back in Green Bay yet?)
No, he's not back yet but it's just precautionary with the chest bruise. I'm just playing it safe, but we'll know more about him when we get back.

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 10

Sun, 10 Dec 2006 14:42:12 CST
I'll start with the injuries. Everyone returned to the game. Cullen Jenkins got hit in the nose; he returned. Greg Jennings had the same ankle; he returned. Charles Woodson had a shoulder - he also returned. Ahman Green got hit in the head, but he's fine. Ruvell Martin had a chest (injury); he's fine. Patrick Dendy had a hand (injury), but like I said they all returned. With that, I'll take your questions.

(After last week's performance to this, how do you feel about your squad right now?)
Well, once again it's been a long month for us as far as the way Sundays have gone. They prepare, they work, and they stick together. I think that exemplifies the character we have on the football team, and I'm just really proud of the way they've stayed the course. It's a great victory for us to come out here. We've kind of got the road thing solved, and now we need to get the home game stuff in order. I'm just very happy with the victory.

(How gratifyin..

Packers-49ers Press Box Notes

Sun, 10 Dec 2006 13:57:06 CST
TODAY: Two evenly matched clubs who've taken similar up-and-down roads in 2006 square off in a series with plenty of history...For the sixth consecutive road game in the series, the Packers make a late-season trip to San Francisco. Each of the five previous meetings in the City by the Bay have come Nov. 29 or later. Three of those contests were in the playoffs...Including playoffs, Green Bay has defeated the 49ers in five consecutive meetings, and in 10 of its last 11 contests. The only loss in the stretch, Mike Holmgren's last game as Packers coach in the 1998 playoffs, contained an example of a game-changing fumble for which league owners altered the rules this spring...Mike McCarthy returns to face the 49ers, the team for which he was offensive coordinator in 2005...Including Holmgren, hired by Ron Wolf in 1992, two of the Packers' last four Head Coaches came to Green Bay immediately after serving as a 49ers offensive coordinator...McCarthy also meets former pupil Alex Smit..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 8

Fri, 08 Dec 2006 11:46:49 CST
OK, we had two guys that did not practice today: Michael Montgomery and Mark Tauscher. Their status will stay the same. Everyone else practiced, and everyone else's status will stay the same.

(What is Montgomery's injury?)
Right knee - he got hurt Wednesday in practice.

(Any chance he'll come back before the end of the year?)
I'm hopeful. We'll know more after we get through the weekend here. It was the last play of team run.

(Is it a bad one?)
Well, it's one of those things where a guy gets rolled up on. It's unfortunate; you never want to see it happen. It happens sometimes in your padded drills - very unfortunate.

(How does David Martin look?)
David practiced much better today than he did yesterday. We'll actually make a decision close to game time. I thought Zac (Alcorn) has done a nice job, and so I want to see how David feels Sunday. I feel good about the other gu..

Cal Tackes Of Stratford High School Named WFCA/Green Bay Packers Coach Of The Year

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 18:20:18 CST
Cal Tackes of Stratford High School has been named Wisconsin Football Coaches Association/Green Bay Packers Coach of the Year, the team announced Thursday.

Tackes (TACK-es) recently completed his 29th season with the Stratford program, having served as head coach for the past 18 years. With a 26-24 victory over Deerfield in the 2006 Division 6 state finals, Stratford became the first program in Wisconsin history to win four straight state titles.

"Anytime you receive an award of this stature, you have to take your hat off to the people that helped you get there," said Tackes. "Our team did an outstanding job this year, and that goes hand in hand with the great assistant coaches I have and the time they put into this program."

Tackes has led the Stratford program to a 175-33 overall record and an amazing 17 postseason berths in his 18 seasons. During their unprecedented run of four straight state titles, the Tigers have compiled a 55-1 record.

Wi..

Lambeau Field's Playing Surface To Receive Upgrade

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 11:24:21 CST
The Lambeau Field playing surface, this week receiving new sod in the mid portion of the field, will undergo a makeover in the offseason that will bring the latest technology to the hallowed ground and make future in-season re-sodding unnecessary.

In a project that will take several months to complete, DD GrassMaster, a natural grass surface reinforced with man-made fibers developed by Desso DLW Sports Systems, will be installed on top of a completely new drainage and heating system. The new surface and underlying systems represent the latest developments in field management.

The new grass surface won't be entirely new for the players, though. It is identical to the surface on the team's Clarke Hinkle Field. That surface, installed prior to 2005 training camp, has garnered rave reviews from the players in its two seasons of use.

"We feel we need to have the best natural grass field possible," said Ted Thompson, the Packers' Executive Vice President and Gene..

Francies Re-Signed To Practice Squad

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 11:11:08 CST
The Green Bay Packers Thursday re-signed wide receiver Chris Francies to their practice squad. Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson announced the signing.

To make room on the practice squad, the team released tackle Calvin Armstrong.

Players Pay Visit To Three Schools That Participated In October PWA Food Drive

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 15:37:29 CST
Green Bay Packers players visited three Green Bay-area schools Tuesday, Dec. 5, as a reward for their participation in the Packers Women's Association Food Drive that took place prior to the Packers-Rams game, Oct. 8.

Twenty-one area schools participated in the food drive in the form of a food collection competition the week leading up to the game.

Notre Dame Elementary & Middle School, De Pere, Wis., took first place honors among the schools involved, collecting 18.81 pounds of food per student. Notre Dame captured top honors in 2003 and 2004 as well.

Packers fullback Brandon Miree spoke to an all-school assembly and congratulated them on their effort and also encouraged them to keep up their good work and make good decisions in their lives.

"Their work in the food drive was incredible," Miree said. "It was about teamwork and coming together. It's awesome what they did and coming out on top."

Miree also appreciated the opportunity to conn..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 6

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 12:12:01 CST
OK, I'll start with the injury list. Mark Tauscher did not practice. He is still doubtful with the groin. David Martin, he practiced limited today. He did not take part in team drills. He has the injury with his ribs. P.J. Pope practiced today, Ben Taylor practiced today, Nick Barnett practiced today, Patrick Dendy also practiced today. Ahman Green and Charles Woodson did not, and Noah Herron did participate today. So with that I'll take your questions.

(What did you see with Martin in the workout?)
He just did limited, did the individual drills. He did not participate in the padded work. He's still very sore. He made a nice catch in the seven-on-seven, and he's working his way back. So we'll evaluate him in the morning and see if he can do more.

(How much do you think you've missed him?)
He's a productive player, particularly on the inside routes and the vertical. I think he was off to a good start. He was productive for us whe..

Packers Sign WR Holiday; Release Francies

Tue, 05 Dec 2006 16:52:09 CST
The Green Bay Packers Tuesday claimed wide receiver Carlyle Holiday on waivers from the Arizona Cardinals and released wide receiver Chris Francies. Ted Thompson, Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations, announced the transaction.

Holiday, a 6-foot-2, 217-pound receiver out of Notre Dame, officially is a first-year player who has spent portions of the 2005-06 seasons on the Cardinals' practice squad. Originally signed as a non-drafted free agent following the '05 draft, Holiday spent three games on the 53-man roster as a rookie, playing in one contest. This season, he played in four Arizona games, including two starts, but did not catch a pass.

A former Fighting Irish quarterback, Holiday will wear No. 18 for the Packers.

Download The Packers-49ers Week 14 Dope Sheet

Tue, 05 Dec 2006 16:27:02 CST
Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Click here to download The Dope Sheet (PDF)

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-Two evenly matched clubs who've taken similar up-and-down roads in 2006 square off in what's expected to be a damp Monster Park.

-For the sixth consecutive road game in the series, the Packers make a late-season trip to San Francisco. Each of the five pr..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 4

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 16:05:11 CST
First of all, sorry I'm late. I'm going to start with the injury report. We had a couple guys, nothing serious. Patrick Dendy, concussion, we're getting him tested today. Nick (Barnett) actually has a potential injury to his other hand, he's going to be fine. Nick Collins, he came out OK. Noah Herron had an ankle sprain. I think he's going to be fine. And Cullen Jenkins broke his nose. He's going to be fine.

(How are Tauscher and David Martin doing?)
Tauscher, we're doing some more tests today. We're going to have another MRI. I know we were hopeful for San Francisco, but he's still a longshot. David Martin, we're actually going to work him out tomorrow, see how his ribs are, but he's not getting much better.

(After watching the film, what's your assessment of the first half?)
It was as bad as I thought it'd be. That was probably the only thing that was consistent about the first half. You start with the defense. Frankly it look..

Packers' 'Holly Day Blitz' Set For Friday

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 15:36:37 CST
The recent winter weather has whetted many yuletide appetites around the area and the Green Bay Packers' 'Holly Day Blitz,' a holiday-themed party Dec. 8 at the Lambeau Field Atrium, is just the place to be for continued merriment.

Digital Office Solutions, a corporate partner of the team, is presenting the festivities which are designed for small businesses and individuals.

The party, from 5:30 to 10 p.m. on the Associated Bank Club level, will feature live music by Big Mouth and the Power Tool Horns, food stations, hors d' oeuvres and a collectable tree ornament.

Packers Chairman/CEO Bob Harlan will lead a complimentary champagne toast at 8 p.m.

Other elements of the party include a cash bar, pool tables, foosball and other arcade games. Lambeau Field also will be illuminated for the evening, with opportunity for attendees to view it through one of the stadium's private boxes.

Tickets, priced per person at $25, are still available..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 3

Sun, 03 Dec 2006 14:42:27 CST
(How do you explain the first half?)
I was trying to think of the words on my way down here, and I don't have them. I really don't. I'm very disappointed, and I take full responsibility because that's my football team out there. You cannot perform like that, and to play like that at home infuriates everyone involved and is unacceptable.

(Was it more what they were doing offensively or your defense?)
Frankly, I thought we had a very good week of practice. You come off the Monday night football game, and the Wednesday practice was a solid practice even with the health issues that everyone's experiencing right now, though that's no excuse. I thought Thursday's practice was excellent, and Friday was a cleanup. I thought our opponent squad did a great job giving us the shifts and motions. We didn't have alignment issues. Our issues were execution. You talk about our defense - we had no pass rush. We looked like we were playing in mud. Chad P..

Packers-Jets Press Box Notes

Sun, 03 Dec 2006 10:43:25 CST
TODAY: The Packers attempt to overcome a tough loss in snowy Seattle, where Green Bay led for nearly 42 minutes, including a fourth-quarter advantage...Eric Mangini brings his club to Green Bay, its first appearance at Lambeau since Opening Day 2000...The Jets are 7-2 all-time against Green Bay. The only other club with a better record vs. the Packers is Kansas City (6-1-1).

YOUNG ADVERSARIES: With the help of team historian Lee Remmel, the Packers have determined that Eric Mangini will become the eighth-youngest head coach on their opposing sideline since the Vince Lombardi era. Since Lombardi defeated 32-year-old Harland Svare, 41-10, at Milwaukee County Stadium in 1962, the Packers have faced only six other coaches who were younger than Mangini in their first regular-season meeting with Green Bay:

Harland Svare, LARm: 32yrs 0months 17 days
Born: 11/15/1930; First game: 12/2/1962

David Shula, Cin: 33 yrs 3 months 23 days
Born: 5/28/1..

'Toys For Tots' Collection Sunday; Freeman To Serve As Honorary Captain

Fri, 01 Dec 2006 17:10:15 CST
The yearly 'Toys for Tots' campaign will take place prior to Sunday's game vs. the New York Jets.

Fans attending the contest are asked to bring new, unwrapped toys which will be distributed by the Salvation Army to children in need this holiday season.

Members of the U.S. Marine Corps will be present at all gates leading into Lambeau Field to assist in collecting the toys.

* * *

Former Packers wide receiver Antonio Freeman, a member of the Super Bowl XXXI Championship team, will serve as honorary captain for Sunday's game against the Jets.

As part of the organization's season-long celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Super Bowl win, General Manager Ted Thompson has invited members of the 1996 team to serve as honorary captains for each of the Packers' home games.

Prior to Sunday's game, from 10:15 to 11 a.m., Freeman will be visiting with fans on the Associated Bank Club Level, an area accessible to game attendees with pri..

Mike McCarthy Press Conference Transcript - Dec. 1

Fri, 01 Dec 2006 15:08:15 CST
Mike McCarthy press conference - Friday, December 1, 2006

OK, I'll start with the injury report. Nick Collins - we're going to upgrade him to questionable. He did practice today. Mark Tauscher will stay the same. He did not practice today, so he's doubtful. Ben Taylor did practice today, so we'll move him up to questionable. Nick Barnett practiced again today. He looks good. David Martin did not practice today, so he stays the same. P.J. Pope did not practice today, so he'll stay the same at questionable. Chad Clifton is still probable; he practiced. Favre is fine; he practiced. Ahman Green practiced, and he practiced also. Cullen Jenkins, frankly, you can take him off because he's over his illness. Charles Woodson practiced today, and he looks like he's ready to go.

(What did you see from Collins? Hopeful he can go?)
I'm more interested to see what they say in the training room now. In talking with Pepper after practice, he felt good from what h..