Packers didn't play to their identity. Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy had his season-ending press conference on Wednesday. Here's some of what he said:
The fumbles and dropped passes were "uncharacteristic" and they "weren't good enough in the areas of fundamentals to win on Sunday."
But he called tackling the "biggest fundamental flaw" and it will be a focus going into the 2012 season. He's far from the only offender, but Charlie Peprah's failed tackle on Hakeem Nicks's first touchdown was pretty bad.
He also spoke about rust.by saying "a fresh football player is the best football player."
When asked about Jermichael FInley, he mentioned Finley's goal this season to play in every game, and said he expects Finley "to continue to develop."
He made it very clear he wants Scott Wells back in 2012.
Here are my comments:
While the Packers have usually done well with ball security, they can get better. McCarthy made an effort after the 2009 season to reduce the number of penalties, and he's largely eliminated that problem. He can certainly help his players with ball security and tackling.
As frustrated as I was with Jermichael Finley's 2011 season, he failed to make a difference in a few games this season and he struggled with drops in a couple other, he's a dynamic weapon who can continue to improve. They really need to keep him next season.
Also, they really need to keep Scott Wells. He did have a very good season, but they have little depth behind him.