Sunday, January 10, 2010

OT Final: Packers 45 - Cardinals 51

The theme for the Packers in this game, bottom line, was no defense and turnovers. The first play of the game started on a turnover by QB Aaron Rodgers and the last play ended on a turnover by Rodgers. Rodgers was stripped as he went back to pass on 3rd-and-5 in overtime and the ball went right into a defender's hands who ran it in for the winning TD in overtime.

The Packers got to overtime after tying up the game with about 2 minutes remaining. The Cardinals had a chance to win it in regulation but their kicker pulled his field goal attempt wide left with 14 seconds remaining.

The Packers won the toss and got the ball at their 20 after the kickoff went out of the endzone. On the first play, Rodgers missed deep on a throw to a wide open Greg Jennings that would have won the game. An ensuing holding penalty and then a 15 yard pass made it 3rd-and-5. That's when Rodgers dropped back to pass and was stripped of the ball.

Cardinals 51 - Packers 45.

In one way, the Packers shouldn't have made it a game. Give the offense credit for getting it into overtime. The defense can take no credit in this game. One of their worst performances of the season.

In the playoffs, turnovers usually tell the tale. Just ask the Patriots. And the Packers.

It was a heckuva season, Packer fans. Oh, so close. And yet...so far. At least this season.

But good things lie ahead. You can take that to the bank.

It just all ended far too soon.