Detroit Lions: Five Things to Know About the Green Bay Packers

In your opinion, what is the most significant difference between a Matt LaFleur & Mike McCarthy Green Bay Packers led team?

Paul: I see two big differences, one being the locker room culture. Obviously winning helps, but there is a different vibe around the team this season. We see celebrations after turnovers, players simply being themselves, and much looser Aaron Rodgers who is having fun once again.
On the field, it is a more balanced offense.

Last season the Packers led the NFL in passing percentage, and through the first five weeks this season, they’re ranked 15th. They were very one dimensional, which put just about all of the burden on Rodgers’ shoulders.

However, this year, with Aaron Jones playing a more prominent role as well as the tight end position being utilized more, they’re doing a much better job of keeping defenses off balance, which makes things easier for everyone involved.

Bob’s Response: I’ve always thought Mike McCarthy was a very creative offensive-minded head coach.  McCarthy could have also been the beneficiary of coaching back to back Hall of Fame quarterbacks.  Aaron Rodgers followed Brett Favre; one is already in Canton, the other will be joining him after his career concludes.

As an outsider, it appeared the Packers were in the midst of a power struggle last season.  Rodgers wanted to do his thing, McCarthy called plays, and Aaron led the league in throwing the ball out of bounds.

As a coach, your voice in the locker room tends to run its course over time.  Mike had been the head coach in Green Bay since 2006.

When an issue arises between a franchise quarterback and head coach, it only ends one way–the coach receives his walking papers.