The Green Bay Packers loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday Night Football was beyond shameful for Packer nation. We talked a big talk the week before the game. We had the confidence in our veteran team as well as our rookies that would be starting. With the return of Jordy Nelson and the slim down of running back Eddie Lacy; we thought we had the win in the bag.
The Minnesota Vikings asked to play the Packers for their opening home game at their brand new US Bank Stadium and boy did the Vikings deliver a grand win.
I'm a Packer's fan, no doubt, but watching the game on Sunday night against the Vikings was like watching a horror movie. The offense was out of sync, Rodgers throws were high and low, but nothing that landed right in the receivers chests, Lacy seemed like his old slow self again. Whether it was on the field or off the field; Rodgers seemed to be out of sync, with everything; almost like he didn't want to be there.
Throughout the game, many may have been asking why or swearing at the television, frustrated with the outcome.
I can tell you, one of the biggest reasons is the lack of playing together during the four preseason games. I understand that one of the biggest reasons for preseason football games is to test out the entire roster so that when it comes time for roster cuts, the coaches and general manager can make the decisions quick and easy.
But what happens to the veteran and well-seasoned players during the preseason? They may play for a series or not even suit up at all. They seem to have very little interaction with the younger players as well as the coaches.
So why is that a problem? Why is it a problem when the veterans don't play together or suit up during the preseason games?
For many teams, it could very well create a game of complete disorganization and anger.
As I watched the Green Bay Packers play against their division rivals, I saw a team that hasn't played together in a very long time. The lack of cohesion between the team led to Aaron Rodgers complete anger; yelling at his line, his wide receivers and everyone in between.
The preseason is more than just a workout. It's more than just non-contact practices and testing out each and every rookie. The preseason should also include working out the full-time players, veterans, well-seasoned and rookies together. The first four games should include all sides of the team, no matter your position or how long you've played.
Before the regular season started, there was extensive discussion about how the serious injuries during the preseason warrants a reason why the NFL doesn't need the preseason. Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh even said that coaches have ways of testing teammates to decide who deserves to be on the team.
While I'm sure they could, the preseason is still especially and even more important for the team to come together and create a cohesive offensive line, defensive line, secondary and special teams.
All four of those aspects need to be synced together in order for a good football team to become a great football team.