Blogger Exchange Program: Q&A with Packers Blogger
We try to get some outside perspective of our upcoming opponents and this week, Melinda Banks from FanSided’s own Lombardi Ave took time for a little Q&A session about the regular season finale between the Bears and Packers. I answered some questions for her too. You can read my Q&A here.
BearGogglesOn: The Packers have been decimated by injuries this season. Which injury has been the biggest loss? If that player had not been injured, how much different could the Packers’ record be?
Lombardi Ave: Without a doubt our RB Ryan Grant. We’ve been searching for ways to create a running game all year. It’s pretty disturbing when your quarterback is your team’s leading rusher. With an elite RB on our team, definitely think we could be as good as 14-2.
BGO: It’s uncertain if the Bears have anything at stake on Sunday and they might sit some starters. Does that change the way the Packers prepare for the game?
LA: The number one goal for the Packers is to get to post season. That means we need to be prepared for everything the Bears give us.
BGO: The Bears are one of the surprise teams in the league this year. What has surprised you most about this team? Do you think they’re more lucky or good?
LA: They have surprised a lot of people, myself included. What surprised me the most was the teams’ ability to finish close games with the all important win. The first few games of the season, it seemed the Bears had a lucky charm in their pocket, but after watching them beat some really good teams, I’d have to say they are more good than lucky. But a mixture of both is usually the recipe for a successful season.
BGO: Besides the ridiculous number of penalties they committed, what do the Packers need to improve from their first matchup with the Bears, a 20-17 loss in Week 3?
LA: I had nightmares about yellow flags for days after that game. The team is much more disciplined now. We’ve had several players heal up from early injuries and I think they are just coming together as a team. Better late than never, but when you keep changing the roster, it’s hard to gel as a team.
BGO: Your prediction?
LA: Packers 31 Bears 24